Prime Time Thursday, October 27, 2011
2 • M O R N I N G J O U R N A L • P R I M E T I M E - FA L L E D I T I O N • T H U R S D AY, O C T O B E R 2 7 , 2 0 1 1
Safe, affordable medication (NAPS)—As baby boomers are aging, some are joining the growing group of senior citizens on fixed incomes who often find themselves having to choose between filling their prescriptions or buying groceries. The Problem On average, Americans pay twice as much for prescription drugs compared to people in other industrialized countries. Those who take “maintenance medications” for conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol are often the hardest hit in the wallet.
As a result, millions of people order their prescriptions from licensed Canadian and international pharmacies. Congress and officials in the White House, however, may take away Americans’ ability to locate medications online—even from trusted, reputable sources. An Answer “Everyone has the right to safe and affordable medications, and they have the right to choose where they purchase them,” says Lee Graczyk, lead organizer for RxRights, a national coalition of organizations and individuals dedicated to promoting and protecting American consumer access to sources of safe, affordable prescription drugs. What You Can Do Graczyk is encouraging Americans to take action now by sending a letter to their representatives on Capitol Hill and the White House to make their voices heard.
24 Hour Paramedic Service
MAPLE COTTON
AMBULANCE SERVICE, INC. 11009 STATE ROUTE 644 • KENSINGTON, OHIO
330-223-1712 • 1-800-791-7182 Call us directly. We offer 24 hour service.
Learn More For more information on how you can join this group of concerned citizens and to send a letter to your elected officials, visit the coalition’s website at www.rxrights.org. You can also find RxRights at facebook.com/rxrights and twitter.com/rxrights.
A heritage of understanding...
Curtis Cotton learned at a very young age the importance of dignity for all families. Left: Howard Cope, Deceased and Right: Curtis Cotton, Funeral Director
MAPLE COTTON FUNERAL HOME
11009 STATE ROUTE 644 • KENSINGTON, OHIO
330-223-1712 • 1-800-791-7182 Call us directly. We offer 24 hour service.
M O R N I N G J O U R N A L • P R I M E T I M E - FA L L E D I T I O N • T H U R S D AY, O C T O B E R 2 7 , 2 0 1 1 • 3
Planning ahead for long term care (NAPS)—Thanks to modern medicine, people are living longer than ever before. But with a longer life comes an increased likelihood of disability, chronic illness, or cognitive impairment (such as Alzheimer’s disease), which may spur the need for ongoing help with the most basic activities of daily living such as eating, bathing, dressing, or getting in and out of bed or a chair. Assistance with these types of activities is known as long-term care. One common misconception about long-term care is that it is primarily nursing home care. Actually, most long-term care recipients receive assistance at home from a family member, friend or professional home health aide. Long-term care is also available within the community at adult day care centers. Additionally, assisted living is available for those who can no longer live at home but need only a limited amount of support. There is a great deal of freedom when it comes to creating the best plan of care, but many avoid planning—it’s not something people want to think about. Considering the high costs of care, planning ahead is essential in ensuring as many options as possible.
The best time to consider long- term care is before you need it. Long-term care insurance can offer financial protection.
The cost of long-term care can be measured in two ways: In Dollars Paid • The average cost of a home health aide has risen to $19 per hour. Five hours of care five days a week costs roughly $1,900 a month or $22,800 a year. • The national average for assisted living is $2,962 a month, or $35,544 annually. • The national average for a semiprivate room in a nursing home is approximately $5,566 a month, or $66,792 annually.
Many people have found that long-term care insurance can offer the financial protection they need to be able to face the future with confidence. The best time to consider long-term care insurance is long before you need it, so it’s a good idea to research this option sooner rather than later, as the younger you are when you apply for coverage, the less expensive your premiums will be. And waiting not only means a higher premium, it also means that you’ll be at greater risk of developing health problems that may prevent you from qualifying for coverage at a later date.
The Toll On Family Caregivers While having friends and family provide care can ease the financial burden for the care recipient, this type of care still has its costs. Without support or assistance, these caregivers can suffer from depression, lost wages, physical injury and disrupted personal relationships. Many are pulled in two directions, caring for both their children and their parents, which can be an incredible challenge.
About the Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program Established by an act of Congress in 2000 and overseen by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, the Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP) is designed to meet the specific needs of the Federal Family.
So What Can You Do About It? First, recognize the potential for long-term care needs and research how the cost of care could affect your future income and savings. Next, research payment options. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ National Clearinghouse for Long-Term Care Information at www.longtermcare.gov and the long-term care tools at www. LTCFEDS.com can be excellent resources for information about paying for long-term care.
D octorsO
N CA L L
Family Medicine | Occupational Medicine | Workers Compensation Why choose Doctors On Call? Same Day and Evening Appointments. On-Site Services such as ... Laboratory, X-Ray, Drug & Alcohol Testing, Ultrasound and Stress Testing. We open promptly at 8 a.m., Monday thru Friday. Please call for an appointment.
Ted Chrobak, D.O., M.R.O. The James Bennett Medical Center 332 West Sixth Street, East Liverpool, OH
330-386-6339 docmedicalcenter.com
The FLTCIP provides industry-leading benefits and offers flexible options that allow enrollees to tailor coverage to meet their needs. To find out if you are eligible for this coverage, as certain medical conditions, or combinations of conditions, will prevent some people from being approved, please visit www.LTCFEDS.com or call 1-800-LTCFEDS (1-800-582-3337) (TTY 1-800-843-3557).
4 • M O R N I N G J O U R N A L • P R I M E T I M E - FA L L E D I T I O N • T H U R S D AY, O C T O B E R 2 7 , 2 0 1 1
Avoid investment fraud
(NAPS)—Most children turn to their parents for financial guidance. Sometimes, however, it’s the parent who needs help. Older people are regularly targeted by fraud criminals because they have money, whether it’s retirement savings, home equity or steady forms of income. Experienced investors may also believe they’re too smart to be scammed. Research funded by the FINRA Investor Education Foundation shows, surprisingly, that financially savvy, selfreliant investors are more likely to be victims of fraud than those who are less knowledgeable. “Investors who are overconfident about their ability to spot a ‘great opportunity’ are less likely to ask for help and advice from others,” said Gerri Walsh of the FINRA Foundation. “And that’s exactly what fraud criminals want.” Adult children should talk to their parents about investment fraud and be sure they are familiar with the tactics that fraud criminals use, Walsh said. “Trick$ of the Trade: Outsmarting Investment Fraud,” a documentary produced by the Foundation and airing on public television stations, explains these tactics and the steps that investors can take to protect themselves. Free copies of the movie can be ordered on the Foundation’s fraud-fighting website, www.SaveAndInvest.org. The website also offers information on how to check the background of a financial professional and the legitimacy of securities. “It may be hard for some people to talk about money,” Walsh said, “but getting your parents to come to you or someone else they trust for a second opinion before making an investment decision is a good way to avoid trouble.” It is a discussion Robert Kalinowski, a 25-year veteran of the Vermont State Police, wishes he had had with his father. The older Kalinowski was befriended by a financial advisor. The two would go to high school sporting events together—but the friendship was a ruse to steal $100,000 in an investment scheme. “I did not see this happening,” Kalinowski said. “I felt rotten. I was supposed to protect everybody...but I did not see this coming.” Checking the advisor’s registration to sell securities would have revealed that he was no longer licensed. The advisor was eventually charged with embezzlement and grand larceny but died before the trial.
Routine eye exams help (NewsUSA) - Every five seconds, someone goes blind, but in 80 percent of the cases, the blindness is preventable. Blindness from eye disease is often treatable, but only if it's noticed early through routine eye exams. To help prevent avoidable vision loss, EyeCare America, a public service program of the Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, is offering free eye exams by volunteer ophthalmologists dedicated to a worthy cause. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors who specialize in eye and vision care, from glasses to complex surgeries. "More than 45 million people worldwide are blind," says Richard P. Mills, MD. "In many cases, the most severe eye diseases offer no warning signs, until it's too late and vision loss is irreversible. But regular eye exams can help you catch problems early, while there is still time to treat conditions and prevent permanent loss of sight." EyeCare America provides year-round eye exams at no out-of-pocket cost to people age 65 and over. Eye exams are provided by a corps of nearly 7,000 EyeCare America ophthalmologists across the U.S. and Puerto Rico. People who are interested in the program can visit www.eyecareamerica.org to see if they are eligible. The organization's online referral center also enables friends and family members to find out instantly if their loved ones are eligible to be matched with an ophthalmologist. While some eye diseases, such as cataracts, progress slowly and offer symptoms, serious eye problems, such as glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy, often offer few or no warning signs. They can be caught and treated in the early stages through a medical eye exam when preventive care is still possible. By the time these conditions do begin to show symptoms, such as blurred vision or black spots across the field of vision, often vision loss is irreversible. EyeCare America provides services to medically under-served seniors and those at a high risk for eye disease. Since its inception, EyeCare America has helped over 1.5 million people.
“No matter what, it can happen to anybody,” Kalinowski said. “They have to check before they invest their money, ask questions, ask the experts, do research. If it could happen to our family, it could happen to you.”
EELLS-LEGGETT-STAUFFER FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICE “Caring for our community since 1828”
Chip Stauffer Funeral Director
Dedicated to providing affordable and personalized funeral and cremation services. Convenient payment options and Prearrangement services available.
Available 24 hours at 330-424-5500 • 215 West Lincoln Way • Lisbon, Ohio
M O R N I N G J O U R N A L • P R I M E T I M E - FA L L E D I T I O N • T H U R S D AY, O C T O B E R 2 7 , 2 0 1 1 • 5
Get money for your house, and stay in it (NAPS)—A retirement free of mortgage payments may be possible for many with an increasingly popular loan program known as a reverse mortgage. It can provide homeowners with cash while eliminating their house payments. Reverse mortgages offer those 62 and older the ability to convert the equity in their home into cash while eliminating monthly mortgage payments. You can think of it as a home equity loan that doesn’t require monthly payments. What’s more, the program is insured by the federal government and the homeowner keeps full ownership of the house. Now the options for reverse mortgages are growing. A new program, the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) Saver, offers significantly lower fees than a standard reverse mortgage, making it much more affordable. “The HECM Saver has become very popular with many retirees looking for an affordable reverse mortgage product that allows them to eliminate their monthly mortgage payment—oftentimes a person’s single largest monthly expense,” said Jay Farner, CEO of One Reverse Mortgage. “Not only are people able to eliminate a payment but they are often able to convert some of the equity in their home into tax-free cash,” Farner added. While the HECM Saver offers a significant reduction in up-front fees, it also limits the amount of equity a homeowner can draw from the house. For some, that makes a standard reverse mortgage more attractive. For instance, on most traditional HECM reverse mortgages, the mortgage insurance fee is two points, which would come to $5,000 on a $250,000 home. Those fees are reduced to only $25 through the HECM Saver program. Another great benefit of all reverse mortgages is that credit scores play no role in determining eligibility. This may be a blessing for many who are struggling in today’s economy or have been plagued with piling medical bills.
Many older homeowners who have been looking for hard-to-find home equity loans are now turning to reverse mortgages instead.
“The real story here is that reverse mortgages are not only growing in popularity, they are also offering more choices to consumers,” Farner added. “They may not be right for everyone, but a reverse mortgage can be a fantastic supplement to a retiree’s 401(k) and other investments.” Learn More To learn more about reverse mortgages, you can visit the National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association at www.nrmla online.org or One Reverse Mortgage at www.onereversemortgage. com or call (800) 401-8114.
Nentwick Convalescent Home Specialized In Skilled, Longterm, and Rehabilitative Care
Since 1951
East Liverpool, Ohio
Equal Opportunity Employer
330-385-5001
6 • M O R N I N G J O U R N A L • P R I M E T I M E - FA L L E D I T I O N • T H U R S D AY, O C T O B E R 2 7 , 2 0 1 1
Annuities offer an array of options for consumers (NAPS)—The challenge in planning your financial future is uncertainty about what, exactly, the future may hold. People nearing retirement often face baffling questions such as: • How can I access my money? • What happens if I need long-term care? • Will I be able to leave a financial legacy for my family? As the recession demonstrated, personal economic conditions can change rapidly. Stability and flexibility in your retirement plan have never been more critical. Record job losses, skyrocketing health care costs, falling home prices and dwindling investment portfolios drastically altered the retirement plans of many Americans. According to a recent report by the AARP Public Policy Institute, one in four Americans age 50 and older exhausted all their savings during the recession. More than half (53 percent) were not confident they would have enough money to retire comfortably. “You work hard your entire life to build up enough assets to last through your retirement years,” said Chris Littlefield, president and CEO of Aviva USA. “The problem is, life is unpredictable. What seems like enough can quickly evaporate if your life circumstances suddenly change.” To help consumers be prepared for changing needs, his company introduced a new Lifetime Solutions Annuity. It offers a combination of features no other annuity can match, such as penalty-free withdrawals when you need quick access to cash and a monthly income benefit that doubles if your doctor recommends long-term care in a nursing home, hospital or hospice facility. If the policyholder dies, beneficiaries receive the remaining value of the annuity through a variety of payment options. The Lifetime Solutions Annuity is just one of the firm’s fixed indexed annuity products that help consumers take some of the guesswork out of retirement planning. These annuities—including the Annexus Balanced Allocation Annuity and MultiChoice
Series—provide consumers stability through the option of a lifetime income stream you cannot outlive. They also carry a minimum guaranteed value with interest credits tied to the upward movement of a market index such as the Standard & Poor’s 500, while protecting the consumer from any downside market risk. “We all want peace of mind when planning for retirement,” Littlefield said. “That’s why we build our financial products around the needs of our customers, recognizing those needs change over time.”
WE WELCOME TO OUR PHARMACY STAFF...
Visit our friendly independent neighborhood store for continued down home service and competitive prices. Also, stop in and check out our Gift Shoppe.
J.J. H. H. LEASE LEASE DRUG DRUG CO. CO. Reliable Prescription Service Since 1919
Still Serving the Nicest People 229 N. Ellsworth Ave. • Salem, Ohio Monday-Friday: 8:30-7:00; Saturday: 8:30-1:00; Sunday: 10:00-1:00
330-337-8727
Each of the following cryptograms is a clue to the identity of a sports legend. Using the hints M=L and I=A, decipher the clues to name the athlete.
1 2 3 4 5
LI LU
G W I J X
&
C O U M P
LI R X U G LI M M V AA M
NAM P
T U P I M R
This all-around great was the fastest LPGA golfer to reach 10 wins. Answers: 1) Babe, 2) Track & Field, 3) Basketball, 4) Pool, 5) Gold Medals, Babe Didrikson Zaharias
Gene Potesta and Jason Perkins. Both were employed by the former Washingtonville Hometown Pharmacy. They welcome all former customers to come see them at Lease Drug for the same short wait time and friendly hometown service you came to expect from your pharmacy. We are also expanding our delivery area to include Washingtonville, Leetonia and surrounding areas.
M O R N I N G J O U R N A L • P R I M E T I M E - FA L L E D I T I O N • T H U R S D AY, O C T O B E R 2 7 , 2 0 1 1 • 7
Tips to help alleviate caregiving stress (NAPS)—While family caregiving can be rewarding, it can make life more stressful for those providing the care. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, this type of stress affects women more then men. Women caregivers tend to offer more assistance, such as managing physical needs. Three out of four caregivers, men and women, report feeling strained emotionally, physically or financially. The stress involved can be worse for caregivers of the elderly, as it is hard to watch a parent lose cognitive abilities. It’s not unusual for caregivers to develop health problems of their own. Part of the reason is that they are less likely to take good care of themselves due to time and money constraints imposed by caregiving. Caregivers may not have the time for regular checkups, may not fill a prescription due to cost, miss sleep or forget to eat healthy meals. It’s very important for caregivers to recognize their own limits. Here are a few tips to help: • Find out about caregiving resources in your community. • Don’t do it alone. Ask for and accept help. Ask family members to do their share. • Simplify your life and reduce other sources of stress. Make “to do” lists. • Stay in touch with family and friends. • Join a support group. • Make time to get away and have fun.
b y ANXIETY?
• Consider home care supportive services. A home Care Professional can coordinate a patient’s plan of care under the direction of his or her doctor. A wide range of treatments and procedures that were once performed in a hospital can now be delivered at home. Trained clinicians teach individuals and their families self-management for chronic conditions or help with recovery from an illness or injury. Supportive services from a home care company such as Interim HealthCare can help with bathing, preparing meals, shopping, companionship, transportation and limited light housework.
The company is one of the leading home care and medical staffing companies in the country. Employing more than 75,000 health care workers and providing services to approximately 50,000 people, the company also of fers an evaluation test to identify factors that may place someone at risk (www.independentlivingassessment.com).
K .R.K AZA,M .D.,AB PN
COMPREHENSIVE
BEHAVORIAL
HEALTH ASSOCIATES INC.
321 W .5 th Street 1995 E.Sta te Street Ea stLiverpool,O h io S a lem ,O h io
330-385 -8800 330-332-7294
Winter’s Coming -We’ll HelpYou FeedYour Feathered Friends!
For more information, visit www.interimhealthcare.com.
OVERWHELMED OFFERING PSYCHIATRIC, PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING AND COUNSELING SERVICES
Care For The Caregiver: It’s not unusual for caregivers to develop health problems of their own. They are less likely to make time to take good care of themselves.
Now Selling:
25# Home Grown Sunflower!!
We Make Our Own Special Recipe For
“WILD BIRD SEED”
Don’t Forget It’s The Time of Year to Feed the Deer! 3 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU
ROGER’S MILL HANOVERTON FEED Depot St. (St. Rt. 7) Rogers, Ohio
330-227-3214
Depot St. (St. Rt. 7) Rogers, Ohio
330-223-1300
1855 Race Track Rd./Rt. 208 New Cumberland, W.Va.
304-387-1187
Open: Mon.-Fri. 8:00-5:00; Sat. 8:00-12:00; Closed Sun.
8 • M O R N I N G J O U R N A L • P R I M E T I M E - FA L L E D I T I O N • T H U R S D AY, O C T O B E R 2 7 , 2 0 1 1
Minimize risk with permanent life insurance
Don’t wait for symptoms, ask about PAD now
(NewsUSA) - With persistent economic uncertainty, retirement worries plague many Americans. Instead of dreaming about their golden years, workers may be haunted by the possibility of a retirement where the idea of not having enough money may not be hyperbole. Consumers are looking to diminish risk and take control. A financial professional will tailor a plan to fit an individual's own financial goals, but permanent life insurance should be a part of any diversified retirement strategy and can offer security and growth for those with a number of working years ahead.
(NewsUSA) - One out of every 20 Americans over age 50 is diagnosed with Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD). The worst part of this reality is that most people with PAD don't experience any symptoms. PAD is dangerous, especially when there are no warning signs.
Permanent life insurance offers death protection as well as the potential for cash value accumulation, which can be an important source of retirement income. As the value of a permanent policy grows tax deferred over time, the cash may be used for any purpose.* This kind of life insurance offers a measure of flexibility that enables consumers to make choices and better manage their financial lives and can augment other income sources like Social Security, 401k savings or pensions for those lucky enough to have them.
People have PAD when the arteries in their legs become narrowed or clogged with fatty deposits, or plaque. The buildup of plaque causes the arteries to harden and narrow, which is called atherosclerosis. This reduces blood flow to the legs and feet.
The income stream from a permanent life insurance policy may also help cover the "gap years," which fall between retirement and the age when Medicare and Social Security benefits begin. Most retirees will need the guidance of a financial professional to determine the best use of resources during the gap period and throughout retirement. However, consumers should know that a permanent insurance policy could be the difference between retirement at an age you desire instead of when Social Security and qualified plan distributions start. This additional resource may also enable a retiree to delay the start of Social Security payments, which will ultimately deliver larger monthly sums over time.
Peripheral Arterial Disease is a progressive disease commonly called clogged arteries in the legs, poor circulation or a hardening of the arteries.
The severity of the disease depends on how early it's diagnosed as well as pre-existing health issues. PAD's primary symptom is an intermittent cramping of leg muscles during walks or hikes. For some, the pain may feel more like numbness, weakness or heaviness. Whether or not you have symptoms, having PAD means that you're at a higher risk for heart attack, stroke and even death. Many people don't get tested for PAD because they have no symptoms and never feel a thing. The good news is that proper treatment saves lives. If you're over 50, talk to your health care provider about getting tested for PAD.
No matter how permanent insurance is ultimately used, if structured properly, a policy can provide an income tax- and estate tax-free death benefit. Retirees can then spend their retirement income knowing they will still leave a legacy to their children or a favorite charity.
The test for PAD is called the "ABI" or ankle-brachial index. It's a comparison of blood pressure measurements taken at the arms and ankles. It can also assess the severity of the disease. Despite the presence or lack of symptoms, individuals are their own first line of defense. When face time with actual doctors is limited, it's helpful to have a list of prepared questions on hand. The Vascular Disease Foundation (VDF), a non-profit dedicated to public awareness and education regarding vascular health, has compiled some questions to ask doctors about PAD: • Does my medical history raise my risk for PAD? • What can I do to reduce my blood sugar level if it's too high or if I have diabetes? • What do you recommend to quit smoking?
To learn more about how to leave a legacy and strengthen your retirement plan with permanent life insurance, please visit www.pennmutual.com.
For more information, or to get a free Heart and Sole kit, go to www.vdf.org or 1-866PADINFO (1-866-723-4636).
In addition to assisting with bridging the gap years, a permanent insurance policy may help cover unexpected or planned expenses from healthcare costs, to paying for a grandchild's college education, to contributing to the start-up of a family business.
M O R N I N G J O U R N A L • P R I M E T I M E - FA L L E D I T I O N • T H U R S D AY, O C T O B E R 2 7 , 2 0 1 1 • 9
Compare your health care options online
Get the facts about cataracts and surgery
(NewsUSA) - It can be difficult to find health care providers like doctors, hospitals or nursing facilities that meet your needs. You need to compare before choosing your health care providers or plans because your decision can impact your health outcomes.
(NewsUSA) - Though cataracts are the leading cause of vision loss worldwide, myths persist about their cause and treatment. Cataracts affect nearly 22 million Americans age 40 and older. By age 80, more than half of all Americans will have cataracts, according to the National Eye Institute.
Now, you can find Medicare.gov compare tools in one convenient place, Medicare's Quality Care Finder, available at www.medicare.gov/qualitycarefinder. The tools have easy-to-use and objective quality information to help you make "apples to apples" comparisons among similar types of providers and plans. Providers and facilities may vary in how well they care for patients, and their experience with specific health conditions or procedures. Finding the right expertise and care for your needs may help speed up your recovery time and improve health problems. Here are some of tools available through Quality Care Finder: Hospital Compare. Compare Medicare-certified hospitals based on the quality of their care. Nursing Home Compare. Find Medicare- and/or Medicaid-certified nursing homes based on services, like dementia care, ventilators or rehabilitation, and then compare their star ratings and the quality of care they give. Home Health Compare. Find Medicare-certified home health agencies based on services, like skilled nursing care, physical therapy, speech therapy and home health aides, and then compare each home health agency based on the quality of their care. Dialysis Facility Compare. Find Medicare-certified dialysis facilities and their offered services and then compare each facility based on quality of care. Physician Compare. Find doctors based on medical specialty, clinical training, foreign languages spoken and more. Plan Finder. Compare quality ratings of available Medicare health and drug plans, and get detailed information about the cost and benefits of each. To star t benefitting from these valuable tools, visit www.medicare.gov/qualitycarefinder. Data are collected and updated regularly to ensure accurate information to help you make the best choices. You should discuss the information with your doctor and loved ones, and visit the facilities you are considering. To learn more about Medicare and other resources, visit www.medicare.gov, or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048.
"Cataracts are not preventable, but they are treatable," said Richard P. Mills, MD, "and the best way to ensure vision stays healthy for a lifetime is to schedule a visit with an ophthalmologist. More than 90 percent of the people who have cataract surgery regain useful vision." As the eye's lens, located behind the pupil, grows older, its cells die and accumulate. The result is blurred vision and "fuzzy" images. Eye injuries, certain medications and diseases such as diabetes are also known to cause cataracts. In the early stages, stronger lighting and eyeglasses may lessen vision problems caused by cataracts. But at a certain point, cataract surgery -- the most frequently performed operation in the country -- may be necessary. There are four common cataract myths to dispel: • MYTH 1: Eye drops can prevent or dissolve cataracts. • FACT: The Food and Drug Administration has not approved any drops that cure or delay cataracts. Since cataracts are not a substance, there is nothing for the drops to dissolve. • MYTH 2: Close-up tasks like reading or sewing make cataracts worse. • FACT: Cataracts are not caused by how people use their eyes. However, cataracts likely become more noticeable during close work. One sign of a cataract is the need for more light to do the same activities. • MYTH 3: Cataracts are reversible. • FACT: The lens naturally clouds as it ages; this process is unavoidable and irreversible. But its progress can be slowed by quitting smoking, eating a balanced diet and wearing sunglasses. If you are age 65 and older and you think you have cataracts, you may qualify for a free eye exam. The eye exams are provided by a program called EyeCare America, an organization that works with nearly 7,000 volunteer ophthalmologists across the U.S. Visit www.eyecareamerica.org to see if you or a loved one qualifies for this care.
1 0 • M O R N I N G J O U R N A L • P R I M E T I M E - FA L L E D I T I O N • T H U R S D AY, O C T O B E R 2 7 , 2 0 1 1
Eyeing the window to your health (NewsUSA) - Some say the eyes are windows to the soul. But did you know that the eye disease age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can also indicate increased risk of heart attack or stroke? EyeCare America, a public service program of the Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, is raising awareness about AMD and its potential "window to health" through your eyes. Imagine seeing black holes in your field of vision instead of your family, your garden or your favorite book. More than 10 million Americans suffer from AMD. AMD occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the eye's macula, where the sharpest, central vision occurs. It's the leading cause of vision loss for those 65 and older. While not curable, AMD's advancement can be delayed and treated, leading to many more years of healthy vision for those who detect it early through an eye exam. This same blood vessel damage can also indicate risk for heart attack or stroke -- as much as 8 to 10 times greater. An Australian study noted that among those whose health was followed for a number of years, subjects with AMD had more than double the incidence of heart attack or stroke. Eye exams let patients know of increased risk for other serious health problems. EyeCare America provides eye exams at no out-of-pocket cost to people 65 and older and offers online medication assistance information. Eye exams are provided by a corps of nearly 7,000 volunteer ophthalmologists across the U.S. and Puerto Rico. Those interested in the program can visit www.eyecareamerica.org to see if they are eligible. EyeCare America is designed for people who are U.S. senior citizens or legal residents who haven't seen an ophthalmologist in three or more years. Additional information can be found at www.eyecareamerica.org.
Columbiana County Office on Aging 785 E. State Street • Salem, Ohio
330-332-1163
• Adult Daycare Mon. thru Thurs. 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. • Heap & Golden Buckeye Card Applications • Free Income Tax Preparation by AARP
M O R N I N G J O U R N A L • P R I M E T I M E - FA L L E D I T I O N • T H U R S D AY, O C T O B E R 2 7 , 2 0 1 1 • 1 1
Fiber rich recipe: Whole Wheat Carrot Cake Ingredients 2 cups whole wheat pastry flour 2 tsp baking powder 2 tsp ground allspice 1 tsp ground ginger ½ tsp salt 1 cup packed light brown sugar 1 cup butter, at room temperature 6 large eggs, beaten Grated zest of 2 oranges 1 tsp pure vanilla extract 6 small carrots, peeled and coarsely grated (2 cups) 1 cup raisins or golden raisins 8 oz (225g) cream cheese 1 cup confectioner's sugar ¼ cup fresh orange juice Special equipment: Two 8 in (20cm) round cake pans Directions 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter two 8in (20cm) round cake pans, and line the bottoms with parchment paper. Whisk the flour, baking powder, allspice, gin-
ger, and salt in a large bowl, then stir in the sugar. Add the butter, eggs, vanilla, and half the zest. Beat with an electric mixer set on high speed about 2 minutes or until the mixture is smooth. Stir in the carrots and raisins. 2. Spread the batter in the pans. Bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Transfer to a wire rack and cool for 10 minutes. Invert, peel off the paper, turn right-side up, and cool completely. 3. Meanwhile, make the frosting. Beat the cream cheese, remaining orange zest, and confectioner's sugar. Add enough orange juice to make a spreadable frosting. Spread ½ cup of the frosting over 1 cake layer, top with the other layer, and frost with the remainder. Yield: Makes 8 slices
Our Family Is Here for Yours
The passing of a loved one is a painful experience. As a family-run business for generations, we understand the need for services which preserve the memory and dignity of your loved one. As a full-service funeral home, we can help ease your burden by making the necessary arrangements and assisting you in making tough emotional choices in a caring, professional manner. Our goal is to make your family’s transition easier in your time of need.
Prearrangement available • Cremation Services
WEBER
FUNERAL HOME
340 E. Lincoln Way • Lisbon, Ohio
330-424-7011
1 2 • M O R N I N G J O U R N A L • P R I M E T I M E - FA L L E D I T I O N • T H U R S D AY, O C T O B E R 2 7 , 2 0 1 1
Diagnosis of osteoporosis Arrange a longer consultation with your doctor so your doctor has sufficient time with you to take a detailed medical history, and so that you do not feel rushed. When your doctor assesses your bone health, he/she will need to establish whether you have particular risk factors for osteoporosis. Your doctor will take a medical history about your general health including: • calcium intake • level of exercise • whether there is a family history of osteoporosis • use of drugs such as prednisolone and thyroxine • history of thyroid disease • smoking status • alcohol intake • caffeine intake • menstrual history • menopausal status • whether you have ever had a fracture, noticed a change in your posture or noted loss of height. If your doctor establishes that you have significant risk factors for osteoporosis, then your doctor may arrange the following tests:
DXA scan A dual energy X-ray absorptiometry scan (DXA, previously DEXA) is a specialised X-ray technique, which specifically measures bone mineral density (bone mineral content) and provides the most accurate way to assess this. This is just like a normal X-ray, with no pain involved.
It is used to: • confirm the diagnosis of osteoporosis • estimate severity of bone loss • determine whether the patient is responding to treatment It is a fast scan, has high resolution, is easily reproducible and has a lower radiation dose compared to other methods. Usually only the lumbar spine (lower back) and proximal femur (hip region) are measured. Plain X-ray A plain X-ray of your upper and lower spinal column (thoraco-lumbar spine) may be ordered to determine whether there are already features of osteoporosis affect-
“Service With Compassion”
Grace Woods Senior Living is a home that is centered on the individual needs and unique preferences of the people who live here. Grace Woods provides a cost effective solution for the individual requiring Assisted Living Services. Our unique programs facilitate management of the residents needs with their existing healthcare providers, creating a continuum of care that preserves independence, personal dignity and self-respect.
Suite rates include Nursing Administration of Medications, 24 hour assistance, residential activity programs, all meals, snacks, extended basic cable TV, weekly housekeeping service and personal laundry service. That facility is equipped with a wireless call system. In addition, Grace Woods provides access to our inhouse beauty/barber shop and library. At Grace Woods Senior Living, Professional Nurse Management, Pharmacy Services, Prescription Medication Management, and Medication Reminder Service are available to all residents. In-house Physical and Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Registered Dietitian Services, Laboratory Services, X-ray Services are provided as a convenience to our residents when prescribed by the residents attending physician.
ing the spinal column (vertebral bodies). Blood tests It may also be necessary to for you to have blood tests to look for any contributing causes for osteoporosis. This may involve assessment of vitamin D levels, calcium levels, thyroid function and other tests.
Ultrasound measurement Currently ultrasound tests are available at many pharmacies. These involve an ultrasound measurement of the heel. Ultrasound tests are not as accurate in assessing for osteoporosis as a DXA scan and are not recommended by doctors.
Assisted Living PLUS services are available and address the individual that requires additional assistance with activities of daily living (ADL). This program enables us to better manage the residents who need a higher degree of care and services. Our assessment system account for these differences in services required and allows us to keep our overall cost of service lower than most of the areas assisted living providers. Grace Woods Senior Living is owned and operated by an Ohio Department of Health Licensed Nursing Home Administrator who possesses over 25 years of experience in caring for our areas seniors.
• Private rooms • Tailored plan of assistance • Nurses on site daily • Nurse management of medication • In-house rehab services • Personal Assistance with care 24 hours a day • Three Meals plus snacks • Activity programs • Laundry and Cleaning Service • Free Cable TV • Wireless Call Pendants • Ranch Style Layout • Security System
Daily rates range from $72 to $85 per day based on each Tailored Plan of Assistance. An Ohio Department Of Health Licensed Residential Care Facility Medicaid Certified
EDWARD J. FABIAN, C.E.O. Grace Woods Senior Living of Salem 1166 Benton Road (State Rt. 14) Salem, Ohio 44460 FAX:
330-332-1104 •
330-337-2273
M O R N I N G J O U R N A L • P R I M E T I M E - FA L L E D I T I O N • T H U R S D AY, O C T O B E R 2 7 , 2 0 1 1 • 1 3
Eating right is important at any age The best way to prepare for a long and healthy life is to maximise the benefits to be gained from healthy nutrition and a sensible lifestlye. Recognising that our nutritional requirements change as we age is a good start to achieving and maintaining your own healthy and comfortable weight. It is never too late to improve on what and how much you eat. Healthy eating helps you keep up your energy, gives you a stronger immune system, improves your state of mind, decreases your risk of disease and helps you control your weight. 40s to 50s: Nutrition | It is important now, more than ever, to have a healthy diet and to be physically active. Weight gain is directly linked to an increased risk for a range of diseases including diabetes, heart disease, gall stones and high blood pressure. The number of women who develop diabetes and cardiovascular disease increases from midlife so extra care needs to be taken to prevent long-term problems.
• Calcium and osteoporosis All women need to make sure they are consuming enough calcium to reduce their risk of developing osteoporosis, but particularly at this time of life. Osteoporosis affects one in every two women, but this risk can be reduced by having a varied healthy diet. The loss of calcium from your bones increases around the time of menopause, so making sure you have three servings a day of calcium rich foods is very important. Keeping up your level of physical activity can also reduce your risk of osteoporosis. Also, make sure you have some sunlight exposure each day to absorb Vitamin D to help with bone strength.
high intake of fibre, wholegrain breads and cereals, and fruits and vegetables can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Other lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight and maintaining good levels of physical activity, are also important. 50s to 60s: Nutrition The quality of your food needs to remain high but you will need to be careful with the total energy intake particularly if you are not as active as you used to be.
Look after your heart by including some polyunsaturated or monounsaturated oils (e.g. olive oil) in your diet, and reducing animal fats to a minimum. Keep saturated fat intake low by choosing low-fat dairy products and lean meats. Limit your intake of processed foods such as fatty take-out foods and commercial cakes, biscuits, chips and pastries. Oils, like olive, canola, sunflower and safflower, are beneficial. Some foods have been shown to protect against disease. Include in your daily diet, a selection of: • Fish – fresh or canned • Soy foods, like soy milk, soy beans, soy and linseed bread and tofu • Fruit and vegetables – seven serves daily (two fruit, five vegetable) • Fermented foods, like yogurt 60s to 70s: Nutrition Weight gain may be a problem. Your kilojoule requirement is less, but your nutrient requirement is still high. Therefore, foods should be nutritious but lower in kilojoules and low in fat.
Include lean meats, low fat cheeses, lots of fruit and vegetables, and keep animal fats to a minimum.
• Heart health The change in oestrogen levels that occurs with menopause also increases the risk of heart disease. Eating a healthy diet with low levels of saturated fat and a
Avoid high fat high sugar snack foods such as biscuits and cakes.
Keep eating two or three servings of low fat dairy (milk, yogurt, cheese) or high calcium alternatives daily. Have a high intake of fiber, including plenty of wholegrain breads and whole grain cereals, fruit and vegetables, as bowel problems may occur at this age Drink plenty of water. 70s plus: Nutrition | Some people will experience problems with chewing, swallowing and digestion. You may need to start eating softer, easily-digestible foods. Your sense of taste and smell may decline. Many people find they don’t tolerate meat particularly well.
Meat is still an important food because it supplies protein, zinc and many vitamins and minerals. Good substitutes need to be included if meat intake decreases. Try tender cuts of meat, cutting it finely or even mincing meat. Vitamin D levels in the body are frequently low as you get older and this can affect bone strength. Only small amounts of Vitamin D are supplied by your diet mostly through oily fish. Vitamin D is naturally produced in the skin from exposure to sunlight. Try to sit in the gentle morning sun or go for a morning walk with you arms or legs exposed to the sun for about 20mins a day Make sure all food is nutritious. Some nutrient dense foods include eggs, lean meats, fish, liver, low fat dairy foods, nuts and seeds, legumes, wholegrain breads and cereals. Bowel problems are common, but they can easily be prevented by including plenty of fiber in your diet such as: • Bran-type breakfast cereals • Whole grain breads • Fruit and vegetables • Drink plenty of water
Drink plenty of water.
Your first step home begins with us! NURSING & REHAB CENTER • 24 Hour Skilled Nursing Care • Physical, Occupational, Speech Therapies
Our Medicare/Medicaid center offers Short-term rehabilitation after a brief hospital stay.
•New Family “Care Map” Meeting • Resident Centered Environment
• Responsive and Friendly Staff • Guardian Angel Customer Service
Blossom Nursing & Rehabilitation Center 109 Blossom Lane, Salem • 330-337-3033
1 4 • M O R N I N G J O U R N A L • P R I M E T I M E - FA L L E D I T I O N • T H U R S D AY, O C T O B E R 2 7 , 2 0 1 1
Vitamins and aging There has been recent evidence that as one ages one needs different dietary and dietary supplements. This should not come as a surprise - we are not the same when we age as when we were once young. As we age, we tend to eat less (but that does not mean we won't gain weight but, that's another topic). Eating less and the changes in our digestive system and skin all have effects on our vitamin levels. It had been estimated that almost one-third of elderly people have deficiencies in vitamins and important minerals. Vitamins Vitamins are sometimes referred to as the "spark plugs" of our human machine. They are required to do many things and their excess or depletion can lead to acute and chronic disease. This is why understanding the vitamins is important in healthy aging. The vitamins are categorized into two groups: 1) fat-soluble (vitamins A,D,E, K) and 2) water soluble (vitamins B,C, P).
The difference is important because the water soluble vitamins are excreted by the kidneys and it is particularly important to be certain that they are present in our daily consumption. On the other hand the fat soluble vitamins are stored in fat and other tissues and if we ingest too much they can accumulate and Vitamin A in particular is
known to be toxic. Only vitamins D and K are produced by the body and the others must be either in the food we eat or in a supplemental pill or capsule. Vitamins A, C, and E are anti-oxidants and data shows they can help prevent cardiac disease and some cancers. What Changes Elderly Needs for Vitamins As mentioned above, older citizens tend to eat less and less balanced meals. This is a major cause for possible vitamin depletion. Also many medicines that one takes can change the absorption of vitamins. Some people develop gastritis or bowel changes that also adversely affect the absorption of vitamins.
Vitamin D is dependent on exposure to sunshine (not a problem for most of us at Seabrook) and in someone is not out in the sun and coupled with the changes to everyone's skin as we age, sufficient vitamin D may not be made. For this reason the daily requirement for vitamin D is greater in elderly than younger people. Even people who take vitamin supplements may take the pill at night or in the morning without food, and most of the vitamins require fat in our diet to help get optimal absorption. The point here, is take your supplement with your biggest meal of the day.
Some Problems with Vitamin Deficiency Vitamin D is necessary for the health of our bones. If we have insufficient levels of vitamin D this can lead to brittle bones. It is important to also take a supplement of calcium to maintain bone density and help prevent osteoporosis in patients who are developing this with age. Vitamin B--12 is important in maintaining mental function. Vitamin B12 is found naturally in lean red meat, chicken and skim milk. Folate and vitamins B6 and B12 are required for homocysteine metabolism and have been shown to reduce heart disease if ingested in appropriate concentrations. The antioxidants potentially reduce the incidence of several chronic illnesses. The point is that vitamins are important in maintaining our health. The Bottom Line Everyone is different. We all have differing needs with relation to vitamins. It is important that we discuss our unique needs with a physician. However, it is safe to recommend in general that as we age some vitamin and dietary supplementation is required. There are many formulations available over the counter. We should take the formulation that best suits our needs, understanding that as we age we probably do need a supplement.
Let our experienced and compassionate staff care for you in the privacy and comfort of your own home. We’ve been helping people just like you since 1919.
• Skilled Nursing • Infusion Therapy • Rehab Therapies • Lab Services • 24 Hour Services • JCAHO Accredited • Diabetes Education • Maternal & Child Health • Certified Home Health Aides
330-332-9986 or 800-879-6070 Medicare/Medicaid certified 718 E. Third St., Suite A • Salem
For Your Private Duty Needs...
• Nurses • Home Health Aides • Homemakers • Companions • Private Duty Care & Passport Waiver 1-24 Hours • 7 Days A Week BWC and Veterans Provider
330-337-HOME • 330-337-4663 718 E. Third St., Suite C • Salem
M O R N I N G J O U R N A L • P R I M E T I M E - FA L L E D I T I O N • T H U R S D AY, O C T O B E R 2 7 , 2 0 1 1 • 1 5
Join Us for our OPEN HOUSE!
November 2 & 3 8:30am to 4:30pm A Phonak™ Hearing Aid Factory Representative will be on site. Call for special offers! Good October 27th - November 11th, 2011
2412 W. State Street Alliance, Ohio (located in Marc’s Plaza)
330-821-3277 1-877-855-3277
www.modernhearing.net
1 6 • M O R N I N G J O U R N A L • P R I M E T I M E - FA L L E D I T I O N • T H U R S D AY, O C T O B E R 2 7 , 2 0 1 1
Providers of Skilled Nursing Care, Short Term Rehabilitation, Altzheimer’s Care and Assisted Living of the Valley’s residents for over 50 years. Windsor House is a family owned and operated organization and operates eleven nursing homes and two assisted living communities.
WINDSOR ESTATES
Assisted Living Residence New Middletown, Ohio
330-542-9155
MASTERNICK MEMORIAL Health Care Center New Middletown, Ohio
330-542-9542
OPENING SOON! Call today to schedule your tour!
Providing skilled nursing, short term rehabilitation Alzheimer’s Care and Assisted Living
ST. MARY’S ALZHEIMER’S CENTER
PARKSIDE HEALTH CARE CENTER
1899 W. Garfield Road Columbiana, Ohio
330-549-9259
A source for dedicated care of those in need of Alzheimer’s care and short term rehabilitation.
930 East Park Avenue Columbiana, Ohio
330-482-5547
A source for dedicated care of those in need of Skilled Nursing Care and Short Term Rehabiliation.
w w w. w i n d s o r h o u s e i n c . c o m