A publication of the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging
July 2014 VOL. 39 • NO. 7
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID OMAHA NE PERMIT NO. 389
ENOA 4223 Center Street Omaha, NE 68105-2431
New Horizons ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
Support In 1979, Janice O’Callaghan developed Friendship Program, an Omaha adult day services provider. Nick Schinker profiles O’Callaghan and takes a look at Friendship Program, which is celebrating its 35th anniversary this year. See page 10.
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Don and Marjorie Browers have helped build Habitat for Humanity homes in Omaha and Romania. Don has also volunteered in Haiti, Paraguay, & Macedonia. See page 17.
Celebrating
yrs July 1974 to
July 2014
Serving older adults in Douglas, Sarpy, Dodge, Cass, & Washington counties.
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Hammering away
a k O s f a fi r ce b e on N n
Reduce your likelihood New Horizons Club gains new members of developing cataracts Please see the ad on page 3
$20 Kevin Clevenger
$10 Walt Kujawa Grace Engelmann
$15 Char Stella Rita Zeleny Jacqueline Douglas $10 Sandy Ross
$5 Margaret Weiland James Miscinski Reflects donations received through June 20, 2014.
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ataracts affect millions of people nationwide. According to the National Eye Institute, 38 million Americans will suffer from cataracts by 2030. By age 80, more than half of the nation’s older population will have either had a cataract or have had cataract surgery. There are measures you can take, however, to reduce your chances of developing a cataract. Ophthalmologist Dr. Edward Kondrot recommends three steps people of
all ages should take to stop cataracts. “Cataracts can be caused by a variety of sources, such as aging, nutrition, heavy metals, and excess ultraviolet light,” says Kondrot, founder of the Healing The Eye & Wellness Center.
“Most people think you can only develop cataracts late in life, but cataracts can affect people as young as 40 years old. By changing your lifestyle, you can reduce your risk of developing a cataract later.” Here are five steps to help stop cataracts: • Diet. Maintain a healthy diet. Dr. Kondrot recommends the 70/30 diet, which is eating 70 percent raw living organic food and 30 percent organic food that is cooked. Also, avoid white sugar, corn fructose, fruit juice concentrates, and milk sugar. • Stay hydrated. It’s essential to stay hydrated to keep your body operating at the best of its ability. The Institute of Medicine states men should drink approximately 3.7 liters of water per day and women should have roughly 2.7 liters of water daily. • Check lead levels. Cataracts are linked to heavy metals in your system, such as lead. Chelation therapy is essential to remove heavy metals and one therapy per month is recommended. • Cineraria eye drops. These homeopathic drops are available over the counter. The drops have proven effective in preventing the development of cataracts. Use one to two drops in the eye, three to six times daily. • Reduce stress. Stress has a negative effect on our bodies, leading to illness and poor health. Exercise, meditation, microcurrent stress therapy, and light therapy are great ways to reduce your stress. “The first step that everyone needs to take to prevent cataracts is visit their eye doctor,” Dr. Kondrot. A professional can determine the best course of action for you to take, as well as your risk.”
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July 2014
July 2014 calendar of events 3 Omaha World-Herald’s th 30 Annual Fireworks Show Following Home Run Derby TD Ameritrade Park 888-745-3000
5 Vibes at Village Pointe Hardwood Dash 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. FREE 402-505-9773 12 Vibes at Village Pointe 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. FREE 402-505-9773 Saturdays at Stinson Concert Aksarben Village 7 to 10 p.m. FREE 402-496-1616
19 Vibes at Village Pointe Velvet Crush 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. FREE 402-505-9773 19 Saturdays at Stinson Concert Aksarben Village Recaptured 7 to 10 p.m. FREE 402-496-1616 25 American Solar Challenge The Yard 1400 Cuming St. 7 a.m. 26 Vibes at Village Pointe Lemon Fresh Day 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. FREE 402-505-9773 Saturdays at Stinson Concert Aksarben Village Hi-Fi Hangover 7 to 10 p.m. FREE 402-496-1616 31 Tour de Zoo Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium 6:30 to 8: 30 p.m. $20 for zoo members $25 for non zoo members 402-738-2038
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New Horizons New Horizons is the official publication of the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging. The paper is distributed free to people over age 60 in Douglas, Sarpy, Dodge, Washington, and Cass counties. Those living outside the 5-county region may subscribe for $5 annually. Address all correspondence to: Jeff Reinhardt, Editor, 4223 Center Street, Omaha, NE 68105-2431. Phone 402-444-6654. FAX 402-444-3076. E-mail: jeff.reinhardt@nebraska.gov Advertisements appearing in New Horizons do not imply endorsement of the advertiser by the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging. However, complaints about advertisers will be reviewed and, if warranted, their advertising discontinued. Display and insert advertising rates available on request. Open rates are commissionable, with discounts for extended runs. Circulation is 20,000 through direct mail and freehand distribution.
Editor....................................................Jeff Reinhardt Ad Mgr................Mitch Laudenback, 402-444-4148 Contributing Writers......Nick Schinker, Leo Biga, & Lois Friedman ENOA Board of Governors: Mary Ann Borgeson, Douglas County, chairperson; Jim Warren, Sarpy County, vice-chairperson; Jerry Kruse, Washington County, secretary; Gary Osborn, Dodge County, & Jim Peterson, Cass County. The New Horizons and the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging provide services without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, marital status, disability, or age.
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Everything you need to know about allergies
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r. Susanne Bennett, author of The 7-Day Allergy Makeover, says approximately 55 percent of Americans suffer from allergies. Most Americans are allergic to something such as pollen, dander, dairy products, gluten, and mold. In fact, if you don’t suffer from allergies to these or other compounds, you’re actually in the minority. What’s even more important, she says, is countless people think their low energy, problems with digestion, or headaches are “normal” when in fact, they may be the signs of undiagnosed allergic reactions. People who suffer from one allergy tend to suffer from many, because allergies are a sign of a deeper dysfunction in your system. Only by getting to the root cause of these allergies can you hope to eliminate them for good. Here’s what Dr. Bennett says people need to know about allergies: • Allergies don’t always show visible signs. Allergens don’t always affect the system you might think. Another common misconception is respiratory allergies only affect the respiratory system and food allergies only affect digestion. This is not the case. In fact, allergic sensitivities to food such as sugar can cause joint pain due to inflammation. Gluten sensitivity can produce lethargy and brain fog. Likewise, inhaling mold doesn’t simply affect our breathing. It can also cause headaches and itchy skin. Finally, many chemicals such as MSG or artificial sweeteners can affect our emotional wellbeing, producing nervousness and anxiety. • The environment is loaded with allergens. Allergens are carried in our furniture, our cars, the air we breathe and the water we drink. Toxic chemicals and fungi are two very common types of allergens that may be hidden in our daily environments. • Drugs and creams don’t actually treat allergies. Americans spend more than $4 billion to fight their allergies each year. The majority of that money is spent on doctor visits and medications. But drugs and creams don’t actually treat allergies. Doctors will admit such medications merely mask the symptoms without addressing the root causes. While antihistamines and other drugs may provide temporary relief, their use is often accompanied by uncomfortable side effects. What’s worse, by loading the body with even more difficult-to-process chemicals, people who use such medications may
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actually be making their allergies worse. Your skin is overloaded with allergens. If you’re using beauty products and soaps with chemicals in them (i.e. sodium lauryl sulfate, parabens, and phthalates) you’re wearing your body down with chemical allergens. Your pores are permeable; and you will absorb whatever you apply on your skin. • Are you using dairy alternatives? Be careful. You ever wonder why you feel bloated and gassy after that vegetarian meal or cup of dairy-free ice cream? One of the most common allergies is to soy. While avoiding dairy is essential for healing your allergies, replacing it with soy can give you terrible digestion and leave you tired. Try almond or coconut options instead. • There are seven types of foods that cause the majority of food allergies. These include dairy products, gluten products (wheat, barley, and rye), sugar, alcohol, peanuts, eggs, and mold-containing foods such as many dried fruits, moldy cheeses, and mushrooms. By eliminating or even reducing your intake of these foods you can help reset your body’s load of allergens and eliminate your allergy symptoms. • Runny noses and itchy eyes can be due to more than pollen. Pollen is often thought of as the only airborne allergen. However, pollen allergies are seasonal and usually disappear once pollen-producing plants stop releasing it into the air. If you have typical hay fever symptoms (runny nose, watery eyes, swelling, and itchiness) that last year round, you may actually have mold allergies. Mold is common in any damp area in the home, such as bathrooms and basements. While black mold is visible to the eye, many other forms of mold aren’t as easy to spot and will build up in humid areas. Mold can also be ingested when we eat certain foods such as peanuts, dried fruits, green salads, and moldy cheese (Roquefort blue cheese, or brie cheese). These should be avoided for mold-sensitive individuals. • We can be allergic to chemicals in our tap water. Tap water in America won’t produce acute allergic symptoms. However, it’s filled with numerous chemicals to which people have allergic sensitivities. The buildup of such chemicals in our bodies over time can wear it down and lead to even more allergic symptoms. Many people experience itchiness and discomfort after swimming in a chlorinated --Continued on page 5. --Please turn to page 5.
Lot # 312 3 bed 2 bath $23,000
Brand New 2013 Champion Home is here at Maplewood Estates
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July 2014
Read it & eat By Lois Friedman readitandeat@yahoo.com
Sizzling summer features these recipes Kick summer fare up a notch. A delicious array of recipes for the lazy days of summer and all that jazz! 500 Sushi By Caroline Bennett (Sellers, $17.95) Simplicity, quality, and artistry are rolled up into a roll by this UK chef. Choose from filling, toppings, seasonings, and accompaniments for everything sushi. Almonds Every Which Way By Brooke McLay (Lifelong Books, $18.99) Recipes for every meal of the day. One hundred and fifty recipes with tips, methods, and diet information. Incorporate this wonder nut in just about everything, in any way, for any time of the day. Quick-fix Southern By Rebecca Lang (Andrews McMeel, $16.99) One hundred and fifteen speedy, easy, down-home recipes from Angel Biscuits to Zesting Lemons, grits, fritters, and lots more southern treats. Rotisserie Chicken Cookbook Edited By Southern Living Magazine (Oxmoor, $14.95) Run out and buy your favorite rotisserie chicken then try these 101 recipes for simple family fare to feasts of fancy. A chicken for every pot! Creole Gumbo and All That Jazz By Howard Mitcham (Pelican, $15.95) Three hundred Creole/Cajun dishes, essays, and musical notes, in a celebration of New Orleans from this chef/ raconteur. From alligator (barbecued, roasted, fried, and stewed) to zucchini (I'm just kidding about zucchini...it isn't listed!) to this fried favorite.
Hushpuppies
Allergy information... --Continued from page 4. pool, yet they drink it almost daily in their tap water. Likewise, small amounts of other chemicals such as arsenic, mercury, fluoride, and uranium are allowed in our tap water. For this reason, having a carbonfiltered reverse osmosis water purifier is essential to help deal with allergens in our water. • Bad gut bacteria can make you allergic to many foods. There are more than three trillion bacteria in your gut and they help process and digest foods and extract nutrients your body couldn’t do on its own. However, through improper care of our fruits and vegetables, untidy kitchens, and exposure in our urban environment, we may ingest bad bacteria that hurt our digestive systems. Bad bacteria in our gut make it more difficult to process what are known as fermentable carbohydrates, the short-chain sugars that are found in countless foods such as beans, broccoli, cabbage, and pitted fruits like peaches, plums, and cherries. Humans may have a difficult time digesting these fermentable sugars because we lack the enzymes to break them down. The end result is intolerance to fermentable carbs that can produce terrible bloating, gas, cramping, and constipation. Irritable bowel syndrome is often the direct result of allergic sensitivities produced by bad gut bacteria. • Furniture and cars can trigger chemical allergies. Increasingly, much industrial production depends upon what are known as volatile organic compounds or VOCs. These compounds, such as formaldehyde, are found in many glues, vinyl products, paints, fuels, carpet, and plastics we’re surrounded by every day. For instance, furniture made of particleboard will often use formaldehyde in its
glue, while that “new car smell” is actually volatile organic compounds in the paint, leather, carpet, and glue. VOCs can produce a host of allergic symptoms such as itchy throat, headaches, brain fog, and confusion. At higher concentrations it’s especially harmful to human health. • Allergic sensitivities can make you feel hungover without drinking a drop of alcohol. If you’ve ever woken up irritable, with poor concentration, and with low energy, you might be having a “sugar hangover.” If you eat too much fruit and sugar, the yeast and mold common in the gut will begin to ferment. This fermentation produces an autointoxication that’s similar to what happens when you drink too much alcohol. Your body has a “brewery” churning inside the gut. As a result, you may feel exactly like when you’re hung over. • Allergies may be healed all naturally. The good news is allergies may be healed all-naturally without drugs, creams, or medication. By improving the quality of these seven key areas in our lives, we can help rid ourselves of the buildup of allergens and toxins in the body. You will restore vibrant health from the inside out. Dr. Bennett believes if you’re dealing with chronic symptoms daily, you have hidden allergies that are preventing you from feeling good and achieving your optimal state of health. Her new book, The 7-Day Allergy Makeover offers clear, easy to understand, and effective strategies for people suffering from allergy symptoms. The book is available in paperback and Kindle online and in bookstores. For more information log on the Internet to www.drsusanne.com.
1 cup cornmeal 1 cup flour 1 medium onion finely chopped 6 scallions with 2” of their green leaves, finely chopped 2 tsp baking powder 2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper 1 egg 1/2 cup (or more) buttermilk Put the first seven ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix well. Add the egg and mix it in. Add enough buttermilk to make a thick heavy paste. Drop tablespoons of the mixture into hot fat, and fry until they’re done all the way through. Drain well and keep the first batches warm while the later ones are being fried.
The New Horizons is brought to you each month by the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging. Law Offices of Charles E. Dorwart 31 years of legal experience • Wills • Living Trusts • Probate • Healthcare and Financial Powers of Attorney • In Home Consultations • Free Initial Consultation 440 Regency Parkway Drive • Suite 139 Omaha, NE 68114 Office: (402) 558-1404 • Fax: (402) 779-7498 Cdorwartjd@aol.com
July 2014
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Alzheimer’s support groups available in Dodge, Douglas, Sarpy counties The Alzheimer’s Association Midlands Chapter offers several caregiver support groups and specialty support groups each month in Dodge, Douglas, and Sarpy counties. These support groups offer valuable space and educational opportunities for families impacted by Alzheimer’s disease or a related form of dementia to engage and learn. Please call Elizabeth at 402-502-4301, ext. 205 for more information. DODGE COUNTY
• OMAHA
• FREMONT Last Wednesday of month @ 2 p.m. Nye Square 655 W. 23rd St.
Third Tuesday @ 5 p.m. Immanuel Pathways 5755 Sorensen Pkwy.
Second Tuesday @ 5:30 p.m. Shalimar Gardens 749 E. 29th St.
Younger Onset Support #1 (65 and younger + loved one) No new registrations accepted First Wednesday @ 4:45 p.m. Alzheimer’s Association office 1941 S. 42nd St., Suite 205.
DOUGLAS COUNTY • BENNINGTON Last Thursday @ 6 p.m. Ridgewood Active Retirement Community 12301 N. 149th Cr. • ELKHORN Third Monday @ 6 p.m. Elk Ridge Village Assisted Living 19400 Elk Ridge Dr. • OMAHA Every other Monday @ 7 p.m. Brighton Gardens 9220 Western Ave. Men’s Group Third Wednesday @ 11:30 a.m. Alzheimer’s Association office 1941 S. 42nd St. Third Tuesday @ 6:30 p.m. Fountain View Senior Living 5710 S 108th St. Third Wednesday @ 5 p.m. Immanuel Fontenelle Home 6809 N. 68th Plz. First and third Monday @ 1:30 p.m. New Cassel/Franciscan Centre 900 N. 90th St. Adult day services are provided on-site.
Younger Onset Support #2 (65 and younger + loved one) Registration is required Third Saturday 10:30 a.m. to noon Methodist Hospital 8303 Dodge St. Early Stage Support Group (65 and older + caregiver) First Thursday @ 6:30 p.m. Security National Bank 1120 S. 101st St. • RALSTON Second Monday @ 9:30 a.m. Ralston Senior Center 7301 Q St.
• BELLEVUE Third Monday @ 7 p.m. Bellevue Senior Center 109 W. 22nd Ave. First Wednesday @ 1 p.m. Eastern Nebraska Vets Home 12505 S. 40th St. Fourth Thursday @ 6 p.m. Hillcrest Health Services Community 1804 Hillcrest Dr.
Someday this button might save your life. For now, it sets you free. With Lifeline by Immanuel, you can enjoy an independent lifestyle in your own home—knowing that you can get help if you ever need it. In a fall or emergency, every second counts. Lifeline by Immanuel with AutoAlert is a medical alert pendent that can automatically call for help, even if you can’t push your button. Getting you connected to someone with access to your medical history, someone who can evaluate your situation and immediately send help. To learn more about the security and peace of mind provided by Lifeline, call (402) 829-3277 or toll-free at (800) 676-9449.
www.immanuellifeline.com
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New Horizons
The Chairiot Solo, a single-passenger car built specifically for wheelchairbound individuals, recently made its world debut in Omaha. Wheelchair Vans of Kohll’s – a Kohll’s Pharmacy & Homecare division – was chosen by Chairiot Mobility to launch the first wheel-in car designed to empower wheelchair users while encouraging their independence. The Chairiot Solo is an electric, low-speed vehicle that’s approved for driving on any street. It requires its users to have a valid driver’s license. The electrically driven rear hatch opens in 11 seconds with a wireless key fob. The rear access ramp adjusts automatically for entry from the ground or a curb. The driver wheels into the car while a special bracket on the wheelchair and a custom floor lock secure the chair into the car. A three-point seatbelt secures the driver. From the door opening to driving takes less than 40 seconds. The Chairiot Solo is driven with a steering wheel
and a hand bar control that combines throttle and brake functions. Both feature a light touch that needs modest upper body strength. The digital instrument gauges include a display from the rear back-up sensors with visual and audio feedback. A left-hand switch panel has the controls for the car’s accessories. The Chairiot Solo is fully equipped for night driving with headlights, an interior dome light, and a spot lamp for the rear ramp area. Chairiot drivers experience increased independence as they don’t need to request transportation assistance from friends, family, or public services to complete their day-today activities. The electric Chairiot Solo can drive on local streets at speeds up to 25 miles per hour. The environmentallyfriendly electric charge powered by two hub motors built into the rear wheels lets drivers go for up to 50 miles before plugging into any standard 110 volt outlet. It’s fully charged in six to eight hours, costing approximately 70 cents in electricity. (Kohll’s Pharmacy & Homecare provided this information.)
AAA study: More older Americans driving well beyond age 65, using prescription meds
SARPY COUNTY
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A car built for wheelchair users available at Kohll’s
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According to a new report from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, older Americans are extending their time behind the wheel compared to previous generations. For example, 84 percent of Americans age 65 and older held a driver’s license in 2010 compared to barely half that total in the early 1970s. Today, one in six drivers on U.S. roads are ages 65 and older and this new research shows an increased auto mobility of older drivers with travel patterns indicating about a 20 percent increase in trips and a 33 percent ncrease in miles traveled between 1990 and 2009. While upward trends indicate greater mobility for mature adults, the Understanding Older Drivers: An Examination of Medical Conditions, Medication Use, and Travel Behaviors report reveals 90 percent of older drivers also use prescription medications with two-thirds taking multiple medications. Previous Foundation research has shown combinations of medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, can result in an impairment in safe driving ability. “This level of medication use does raise concerns, yet evidence indicates seniors are fairly cautious,” said AAA Foundation President and CEO Peter Kissinger. “In fact, these findings show older drivers using medications are more likely to regulate their driving – reducing daily travel, avoiding driving at night, or driving fewer days per week.” The report also reveals gender differences when it comes to medication use behind the wheel. Older women that use medications are more likely to regulate their driving compared to men and, even without a
July 2014
medical condition, female drivers drive less than their male counterparts with a medical condition. Additional key highlights from the report include: • 25 percent of men and 18 percent of women remain in the workforce after age 65, resulting in more than double the workrelated commutes for drivers age 65 and older compared to 20 years ago. • 68 percent of drivers age 85 or older report driving five or more days per week. • Three-quarters of drivers ages 65 and older with a medical condition report reduced daily driving. • Self-regulatory behavior among those taking multiple medications or having a medical condition declines with increasing income. Female drivers ages 65 to 69 with an annual income under $13,000 were 62 percent more likely to restrict nighttime driving than women with incomes over $70,000. Knowing medication use is very high among older drivers, the AAA Foundation and AAA developed confidential, educational tools such as Roadwise Rx to help older adults and their families understand how prescriptions, supplements, and foods may affect the ability to drive safely. “AAA’s Roadwise Rx is an online tool that generates personalized feedback on how medications, herbal supplements, and foods, and their interactions with each other, can impact safety behind the wheel,” said Rose White, public affairs director for AAA Nebraska. “Drivers are encouraged to discuss the confidential results with their doctor or pharmacist to learn how to mitigate possible crash risks.”
What happens after you’ve filed an Omaha Police Department report
T
he Omaha Police Department is committed to reducing crime and making our city safer. Each year, we investigate thousands of cases. This article helps explain what will happen with your case once you’ve filed a police report. • Step 1: All crime reports are given to an investigative supervisor to review. This investigator is looking for the amount of information your report has on suspects, methods, physical evidence, and how this crime is similar to other crimes in the city. • Step 2: Due to the volume of reports, they are prioritized and sorted into two categories – those that have a lot of follow-up information and those that have very little. We also consider the seriousness of the incident. If your report provides a lot of information, it will
be assigned to a detective for a further investigative follow-up. The investigator assigned to your case will contact you within several days. If your report contains
record and further examine looking for patterns and similarities. Your case is compared to other similar cases in the city. • Step 4: If you remember or receive any addi-
limited information, it may not be assigned to an investigator, and you will not receive a call back. Your case is still very important (please refer to Step 3). • Step 3: Any information contained in reports is valuable and important. All reports are forwarded to the Crime Analysis Unit to
tional information that may help a detective solve your case, or if you have any questions, please contact our Criminal Investigation Bureau at 402-444-5652 or find the appropriate link online at www.opd.ci.omaha.ne.us. (Sgt. Payne supervises the OPD’s Crime Prevention Unit.)
Series of Alzheimer’s programs is offered during summer, fall You’re invited to attend a free six-week series of programs titled Alzheimer’s Disease: The Bridge to Acceptance. The programs will be held on Saturday mornings from 10 to 11:30 at 1055 N. 115th St., Suite 200. The series will be offered July 12 through Aug. 16 and Sept. 20 through Oct. 25. Here’s the schedule: • Week 1: Alzheimer’s Disease: The Road to a Diagnosis… and Beyond with Terry Johnson, a caregiver for his wife and an adjunct professor at Grace University. • Week 2: Legal Documents: What if Something Happens to Me? with Niel Nielsen from the Carlson Burnett Law Firm. • Week 3: Protecting your Assets: What to do When the Forecast Calls for Rain with representatives from Financial Visions, LLC. • Week 4: Family Dynamics: Expectations and Realities with journalist and caregiver Chris Christen. • Week 5: Community Resources: Industry Bestsellers with Michaela Williams from Care Consultants for the Aging. • Week 6: Your Plan B: A Reality Check for Caregivers with Cathy Wyatt, CSA from Financial Visions, LLC. For more information, please call 402-661-9611.
Fontenelle Tours
Omaha/Council Bluffs
712-366-9596
Quoted prices are per person, double occupancy. For more information about our tours, please call Ward or Kathy Kinney at Fontenelle Tours at the number listed above.
Motorcoach
Mahoney Melodrama & Dinner. August 3. $99. Enjoy a Sunday afternoon melodrama (throw popcorn at the villain) followed by dinner at the Mahoney Grille. Arrow Rock, Clydesdales, & Dinner Train. August 8 - 10. $489. Shop and explore in a Missouri village that is a National Historic Landmark, enjoy dinner together followed by “Lend Me a Tenor” at the historic Arrow Rock Lyceum Theater, tour the ranch where the Budweiser Clydesdales are raised, enjoy a four-course dinner on the Columbia Star dinner train, tour The Candy Factory, enjoy lunch and wine tasting at Les Bourgeois Vineyards, and tour the World War I Museum in Kansas City. (Only a few seats left.) Nebraska Junk Jaunt…with a Twist. September 26 – 27. $265. ($245 before 7/26/14). Join us for this garage sale extravaganza, but with a new route and a new motel. This is truly a fun adventure, whatever you’re hunting for! “Wrong Window!” at the Lofte. October 19. $99. ($89 before 8/19/14). Spend a relaxing Sunday afternoon enjoying this crazy farce that pays tribute to the Master of Horror, Alfred Hitchcock, followed by a delicious dinner at the Main Street Café in Louisville. Branson Christmas with Daniel O’Donnell. November 10 – 13. $749. ($709 before 8/10/14). Besides Daniel O’Donnell, enjoy “Jonah” at the Sight & Sound Theater, a backstage tour of Sight & Sound, Patsy Cline Remembered, The Brett Family Show with lunch, The Rankin Brothers, and #1 Hits of the 60’s. “Christmas Belles” at the Lofte. December 7. $99. ($89 before 10/7/14). Come along to witness a church Christmas program spin hilariously out of control in this Southern comedy ........followed by a delicious dinner at the Main Street Cafe in Louisville. In Partnership with Collette Vacations Quoted prices are per person, double occupancy, and do not include airfare. Reflections of Italy ...................................................... 10 days from $2149 Shades of Ireland ........................................................ 10 days from $1799 Alaska Discovery with Cruise .................................... 13 days from $3031 Australia ....................................................................... 21 days from $4899 New York City ................................................................ 5 days from $1749 Hawaiian Adventure .................................................... 10 days from $2999 Canadian Rockies by Train.......................................... .9 days from $3099 Discover Switzerland .................................................. 10 days from $2049 African Safari ............................................................... 14 days from $3849 Rose Bowl Parade......................................................... 5 days from $1449 The Galapagos Islands ............................................... 10 days from $4359 Rhine River Cruise ........................................................ 9 days from $2599 Discover Scotland ....................................................... 10 days from $1849 Tropical Costa Rica ....................................................... 9 days from $1349 Discover Panama .......................................................... 9 days from $1699 San Antonio ................................................................... 5 days from $1149 Exploring Greece......................................................... 15 days from $2549 Complete South Pacific .............................................. 27 days from $6399 South Africa ................................................................. 13 days from $2499 British Landscapes ..................................................... 10 days from $2199 Flavors of Thailand........................................................ 4 days from $1549 Nova Scotia ................................................................. 11 days from $2949 Spain’s Classics .......................................................... 11 days from $2099 Beijing China ................................................................... 9 days from $899 Colors of New England ................................................. 8 days from $2299 Heritage of America .................................................... 10 days from $2199 Watch New Horizons and our website www.fontenelletours.com for our trip schedule. Our mailing address is: 2008 W. Broadway #329, Council Bluffs, Iowa 51501
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Dora Bingel Senior Center
You may be eligible for a free exam
You’re invited to visit the Dora Bingel Senior Center, 923 N. 38th St., this month for the following: • July 1, 8, 15, 22, & 29: Grief Support Group @ 10 a.m. • July 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, & 30: Ceramics @ 9 a.m. • July 2: Holy Communion @11 a.m. • July 7, 14, 21, & 28: Al-Anon meeting @ 7 p.m. • July 16: Foot care clinic from 9 a.m. to noon for $10. • July 25: Hard of Hearing Support Group @10:30 a.m. • July 25: Music by Joe Taylor from the Merrymakers @ 11:30 a.m. Lunch is $3. • July 30: Birthday party luncheon @ noon. Eat free if you have a July birthday. A nutritious lunch is served on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday. A $1 donation is suggested for the meals, other than $3 for Regeneration. Round-trip transportation is available for $3. Reservations are required 24 hours in advance for all meals. Other activities offered at the facility include: Tuesdays: Free matinee @ 12:30 p.m. and quilting group @ 1 p.m. Wednesday: Devotions @ 10:30 a.m., Tai Chi @ 11:15 a.m., Bingo @ 1 p.m., and Bible study @ 1 p.m. Friday: Joy Club Devotions @ 9:30 a.m., Bible study @ 1 p.m., and Bingo @ 1 p.m. For more information, please call 402-898-5854.
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or are you new to Medicare?
eye problems early can make all the difference in saving a person’s vision as well as their independence.” • Know the symptoms of vision loss. Signs of vision loss may become apparent as reading, writing, shopping, watching television, driving a car, and recognizing faces become more difficult. Vision loss that may be noticed by friends and family “Some eye diseases have include missing, bumping into, or knockno obvious symptoms ing over objects, stepping hesitantly, and in their early stages unless squinting or tilting the head when trying to focus. detected during a Make eye-healthy food choices. A diet comprehensive eye exam.” low in fat and rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains benefits the entire body, In the United States, one in six Americans including the eyes. Studies show foods over age 65 has a visual impairment that rich in vitamins C and E, zinc, lutein, and can’t be corrected with glasses or contact zeaxanthin are good for eye health. These lenses. This is often caused by common nutrients are linked to lower risk for age-reeye conditions and diseases. Among older lated macular degeneration (AMD) and dry Americans, visual impairment is one of the eye later in life. Eye-healthy food choices most significant contributors to the loss of include citrus fruits, vegetable oils, nuts, independence. It’s also associated with a whole grains, dark green leafy vegetables, higher prevalence of chronic health condiand cold-water fish. tions, falls, injuries, depression, and social • Quit smoking. Avoiding smoking and isolation. second hand smoke – or quitting, for smokThough many vision-impairing eye ers – are some of the best investments evdiseases are age related - such as cataracts, eryone can make for long-term eye health. glaucoma, and age-related macular degenSmoking increases risk for eye diseases like eration – in most cases proactive steps and cataract and age-related macular degenerapreventative care can help preserve sight. tion and raises the risks for cardiovascular The American Academy of Ophthalmology diseases that indirectly influence eyes’ recommends older men and women follow health. Tobacco smoke, including secondthese seven tips to help protect their vision: hand smoke, also worsens dry eye. • Get an eye exam. Adults age 65 and • Maintain normal blood pressure, over should get a medical eye exam every cholesterol, and glucose levels. High blood one to two years. Regular eye exams are pressure, cholesterol, and blood glucose crucial in detecting changes in vision, which (sugar) levels all increase the risk of vision may be a symptom of a treatable eye disloss from an eye disease. Keeping these ease or condition. readings under control will not only help Older adults who have not had an eye one’s eyes but also overall health. exam in the last three years and for whom • Get regular physical activity. Not cost is a concern may qualify for Eye Care only does 30 minutes of exercise a day America (www.eyecareamerica.org) a benefit one’s heart, waistline, and energy public service program of the Foundation of level, it can also do the eyes a world of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, good. Many eye diseases are linked to other which delivers eye exams and care at no health problems including high blood presout-of-pocket cost for eligible persons age sure, diabetes, and high cholesterol levels. 65 and older through its corps of more than • Wear sunglasses. Exposure to ultra 6,000 volunteer ophthalmologists. violet (UV) light raises the risks of eye “Some eye diseases have no obvious diseases including cataract, growths on the symptoms in their early stages unless deeye, and cancer. Always wear sunglasses tected during a comprehensive eye exam, with 100 percent UV protection and a hat so older adults should make these appointwhile enjoying time outdoors. ments a priority,” said Charles P. WilkinFor more information about keeping eyes son, M.D., ophthalmologist and chair of healthy throughout life, visit EyeCare America. “Detecting and treating wwwgeteyesmart.org.
Do you need HELP understanding your MEDICARE OPTIONS?
Retired and Senior Volunteer Program
Millard Senior Center events calendar
You’re invited to visit the Millard Senior Center at Montclair, 2304 S. 135th Ave., for the following: • Movies the first and third Monday of each month. • Wi games the second and fourth Wednesday of each month. • The quilters are making a red, white, and blue quilt for our veterans. • We’re planning to make a trip to the Holy Family Shrine on Interstate 80 near Gretna. • Tuesday, July 1: Special piano music by Jim Snyder, The Music Man @ 11 a.m. The Millard Senior Center is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lunch is served at 11:30. A $3 donation (free on your birthday) is suggested for the meal. Reservations are due by noon the business day prior to the lunch you wish to enjoy. Center activities include a walking club (join and get a free t-shirt), Tai Chi class (Mondays and Fridays from 10 to 10:45 a.m. for a $1 suggested donation), chair volleyball (Tuesdays and Thursdays @ 10 a.m.), quilting (Thursdays @ 9 a.m.), card games, and Bingo (Tuesdays and Fridays @ noon). For meal reservations and more information, please call Susan at 402-546-1270.
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Seven tips to help you take care of your eyes
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Let’s talk about the benefits that matter most to you.
What you don’t know could COST YOU! Kim Shulters
Senior Insurance Specialist
402-968-1500 kimshulters@gmail.com
New Horizons
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he American Academy of Ophthalmology – the world’s largest association of eye physicians and surgeons – is issuing seven tips to help older adults take care of their eyes as they age to ensure longer independence and wellbeing.
The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program is recruiting persons age 55 and older for a variety of opportunities. For more information in Douglas, Sarpy, and Cass counties, please call 402-444-6536, ext. 224. In Dodge and Washington counties, please call 402721-7780. The following have opportunities in Douglas, Sarpy, and Cass counties: • The Disabled American Veterans need volunteer drivers. • The Douglas County Health Center wants volunteers for a variety of
July 2014
assignments. Alegent Creighton Health Bergan Mercy Medical Center is looking for volunteers to help in several areas. • The Omaha Children’s Museum needs volunteers for its train ride program. • Rebuilding Together wants volunteers to work on home projects. • The Omaha Convention & Visitors Bureau is looking for volunteers for a variety of duties. • Keep Omaha Beautiful needs volunteers for cleanup projects.
• Together, Inc. wants a volunteer intake assistant. • Mount View Elementary School is looking for a TeamMates mentor. The following also have volunteer opportunities: • The Blair and Fremont Car-Go Program needs volunteer drivers. • The Fremont Friendship Center wants volunteers to facilitate classes. • The Danish American Archive Library needs volunteers to help with its archives. • The American Red Cross is looking for volunteers for a variety of duties.
Senior Medicare Patrol is working to help Nebraskans fight health care fraud Nebraska Senior Medicare Patrol, a Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services program that works to educate and empower older adults to help prevent health care fraud offers 10 tips to help you avoid Medicare scams. • Don’t provide your Medicare number to anyone except your trusted health care provider. • Ask friends and neighbors to pick up your mail while you’re away from home. • Shred important documents before throwing them away. • Read Medicare summary notices carefully looking for possible mistakes. • Use a calendar or health care journal to record information from doctor visits. • Compare your calendar or health care journal with your Medicare summary notices. • Count your prescription pills. If the total is less than expected, go back and tell the pharmacist. • Medicare Part D plans change annually. • Don’t speak to anyone claiming to be a Medicare representative about Medicare. • Medicare loses billions of dollars each year. It’s up to you to help fight fraud. If you believe you may be a victim of Medicare fraud, please call the Nebraska Senior Medicare Patrol at 800942-7830.
ENOA is offering a variety of volunteer opportunities The Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging’s Foster Grandparent Program, Senior Companion Program, Ombudsman Advocate Program, and Senior Medicare Patrol Program are recruiting older adults to become volunteers. Foster Grandparents and Senior Companions must be age 55 or older, meet income guidelines, have a government issued identification card or a driver’s license, able to volunteer at least 15 hours a week, and must complete several background and reference checks. Foster Grandparents and Senior Companions receive a $2.65 an hour stipend, transportation and meal reimbursement, paid vacation, sick, and holiday leave, and supplemental accident insurance. Foster Grandparents work with children who have special needs while Senior Companions work to keep older adults living independently. Ombudsman advocates work to ensure residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities enjoy the best possible quality of life.
OPD detective Richard Belik honored as the Elder Abuse Prevention Advocate of the Year
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ichard Belik, a detective with the Omaha Police Department, was honored last month by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services as the recipient of its inaugural Elder Abuse Prevention Advocate of the Year award for eastern Nebraska. Belik received a plaque from Camas Steuter, administrator in Nebraska’s Eastern Service Area for Children and Family Services, during a ceremony at the State Office Building in downtown Omaha. The award was presented as part of DHHS’ observance of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Steuter said Belik has been instrumental in assisting DHHS’ Adult Protective Services with its financial exploitation cases. “He regularly attends bimonthly prosecution team meetings and identifies cases to investigate,” she added. “The work of many Nebraskans to increase awareness of the signs of elder abuse is important to protect the elderly from abuse and neglect,” said Thomas Pristow, director of Children and Family Services for DHHS. “During this observance of World Elder Abuse
Awareness Day, we want all Nebraskans to take extra time and observe the elderly to ensure they are physically, mentally, and financially healthy and report it to the Adult Abuse and Neglect
Hotline if they aren’t.” Steuter encouraged Nebraskans to watch for signs of elder abuse and urged those who suspect elder abuse has occurred to call 1-800-652-1999.
Detective Belik with Gloria Erickson, director of the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging’s Information and Assistance Division (left) and Camas Steuter, DHHS administrator for Nebraska’s Eastern Service Area for Children and Family Services.
A Safe, Cozy, Homelike Environment
for those affected by Alzheimer’s & Dementia
Adult Day Care &Short Term Stays Ombudsman advocates, who must be age 18 or older, are enrolled through an application and screening process. These volunteers, who are not compensated monetarily for their time, must serve at least two hours a week. The Senior Medicare Patrol program helps Medicaid beneficiaries avoid, detect, and prevent health care fraud. These volunteers, who are enrolled through an application and screening process, are not compensated monetarily for their time, For more information, please call 402-444-6536.
We offer peace of mind for caregivers that need a break to run errands, go shopping, or maybe take a vacation. • Quality staff specializing in Alzheimer’s & dementia care • Secure, cozy, home-like environment • One-level floor plan • Quiet, calming atmosphere • Activities and Home Cooked Meals provided
2910 N Clarkson St. Fremont, NE 68025 402.753.8800
July 2014
17620 Poppleton Ave. Omaha, NE 68130 402.333.5749 edgewoodseniorliving.com
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New Horizons
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O’Callaghan, program celebrating 35 years of Friendship By Nick Schinker Contributing Writer
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hirty-five years ago, Janice O’Callaghan answered a call. It didn’t come directly from above, but from one of God’s representatives on Earth, a Sister of Mercy named Rosemary Ronk. O’Callaghan had come to know Sister Rosemary while Janice was earning her Master of Social Work at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Sister Rosemary was coordinator of the Mercy Fontenelle Center, and O’Callaghan had worked with her there. As part of Janice’s social work practicum, O’Callaghan was asked by Sister Rosemary to develop a program in which “at risk” older adults in the north Omaha area would receive adult day services at the former Mercy Fontenelle building, 4500 Ames Ave. Sister Rosemary saw it as an opportunity for a vital community outreach program and tapped O’Callaghan to make it happen. In 1979, O’Callaghan and Kathy Hartwell incorporated Friendship Program as a non-profit organization with funding from the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging. As the only two staff members, O’Callaghan and Hartwell bore complete responsibility for the initial 10 participants. “We had to drive people to and from the place, serve meals, and prepare activities,” O’Callaghan recalls. “We didn’t have to cook, thankfully. We got the food from the cafeteria where the nuns ate, so it was a good meal.” Today, O’Callaghan still answers the call five days a week. In the time since she first welcomed older men and women to Friendship Program, it has grown to serve approximately 400 participants and employ a staff of 52 full and part-time personnel. “I’m not surprised at the need for the program and its growth,” O’Callaghan says. “Society and social norms have changed. The American family has changed. Where your parents used to come and live with you, that isn’t the case anymore. There have been so many changes in the dynamics of the family, and we’ve just been following the trends of what’s going on. “As far as the program proving to be a success, it never occurred to us not to be,” she adds.
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nside and outside, the Friendship Program building at 7315 Maple St. is a bustling place. That’s what happens when you surround brick and mortar with life. “We have all sorts of people here from all over,” says O’Callaghan. “It’s our little slice of the world.” The initial Adult Day Service has since been joined by two additional programs: Day Rehabilitation Service for people with severe and
O’Callaghan at work in one of the rooms at Friendship Program, 7315 Maple St. persistent mental illness, and Community Support Service which provides goal-oriented and individualized support to people living at home. Friendship Program also offers nursing services to assist with medications and health education, assessments and screenings, transportation to and from the agency, social services to coordinate community resources, and physical and mental health care arrangements.
Active Living
“We do so much more health care and education today,” says Bettie Kenny, director of agency support services and a 30-year veteran of the Friendship Program staff. “The mental health aspect of our program has grown so much.” O’Callaghan says mental health care includes individualized follow-up services, coordination of appointments, and transportation to appoint--Please turn to page 11.
Embark on an active lifestyle at Hickory Villa! • Spacious Floor Plans • Enriching Activities and Outings • Pets Welcome • Transportation Available Call to schedule a tour today! For more information, visit our website at:
www.BethesdaSeniorLiving.com
Hickory Villa • Assisted Living 7315 Hickory St. Omaha, NE 68124
(402) 392-0767 Page 10
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July 2014
Services that help people reach objectives, maintain independence --Continued from page 10. ments as well as to and from the Friendship Program building. “Those are vital services, especially in wintertime,” she says. “You don’t want people standing on a corner waiting for a bus that may or may not come depending on the weather conditions.” Kenny says the agency visits 160 chronically mentally ill people in their homes at least three times each month in an area that stretches from the Missouri River west to 160th Street and south to Bellevue. “It’s all part of our Community Support Program, to help these individuals achieve personal objectives and maintain their independence,” she says. An average day might bring another 160 people to the Maple Street facility as part of the Adult Day Service and the Day Rehabilitation Service. The facility, situated in a former Baker’s Supermarket, is open from 7:15 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. “That’s on average,” Kenny says, smiling. “If we have a dance or live music scheduled, everybody who couldn’t make it for a month shows up.”
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hronic mental illness runs the gamut, O’Callaghan says, from mild conditions that can be controlled with medication to more severe afflictions. “Some of our clients have very stable lives,” she says. “They live independently and even have parttime jobs. Others come here every day because of the opportunities for socialization, support, and other services. These are people who for a long portion of their lives have dealt with mental illness. Sometimes they deal with it well. Sometimes they struggle.” The goal of the Day Rehabilitation Service is to help people with mental illness refocus their lives. “You have to understand that you don’t need to have a behavioral problem to be mentally ill,” O’Callaghan says. “It’s just what it says it is; an illness. If a person can’t focus, can’t work, and can’t
Janice O’Callaghan (center) with Friendship’s Program Director Beth Dankert Babb (right) and Friendship’s Director of Agency Support Services Bettie Kenny (seated). function, it’s very difficult. Maybe they just need a little adjustment and they can get back control of their lives.” Alzheimer’s disease and the confusion it provokes is another issue for many program participants, she says. “Mental illness isn’t the same for everybody. We deal with a cross
section of all kinds of needs from a whole range of people. The people here are pretty representative of the world around us. We try to act as their extended family.” As it is for many families in today’s economy, there are times when funding falls short of needs. Friendship Program’s needs include help with building maintenance and
transportation. “We need a couple of new vans desperately,” O’Callaghan says. “We’re constantly piecing those together. We’re repairing them all the time, and then next week it’s something else. “If we had more vans, we could make more runs in a more timely --Please turn to page 12.
Do you have a loved one in a nursing home? Do you have a loved one who will soon be going into a nursing home? Before you send another check to the nursing home, visit nebraskamedicaidplanning.com or call Chartered Advisor for Senior Living, Mark Guilliatt. Not affiliated with any government agency.
14301 First National Bank Parkway Suite 100 • Omaha, NE 68154
630 North D Street Fremont, NE 68025
1-800-886-8673
402-727-4845
July 2014
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Participants needed for hoarding study The University of Nebraska at Omaha is looking for pairs of individuals who are willing to participate in a joint one-time interview. One of these men or women in each pairing needs to have difficulty with excessive clutter. The other individual must be the first person’s family member or close friend. There is no monetary compensation for persons participating in this research study. For more information, please call Jennifer Baker at 402554-2921 or e-mail to her at jabaker@unomaha.edu.
Smoke, carbon monoxide detectors installed by Omaha Fire Department The Omaha Fire Department’s Public Education and Affairs Department is available to install free smoke and/ or carbon monoxide detectors inside the residences of area homeowners. To have a free smoke and/or carbon monoxide detector installed inside your home, send your name, address, and telephone number to: Omaha Fire Department Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Requests 10245 Weisman Dr. Omaha, NE 68134 For more information, please call 402-444-3560.
MovingOn Whether moving to a new home, apartment, retirement community, or out of state like Bill and Mary; Katie Wray “MovingOn” will sort, pack, and Owner-Operator arrange to move your belongings. As a senior, or a child of a senior, life is busy and handling a household liquidation or estate sale can be overwhelming and confusing. “MovingOn” decreases stress as it acts as your on-site advocate by taking care of all the details.
Friendship Program ... --Continued from page 11. fashion.” Day-to-day financial support is always a concern, she says. “We try to stretch every dollar we bring in, but sometimes they snap back.” The program is also looking to hire interested health care professionals and other workers. “Social workers, licensed mental health professionals, LPNs, RNs, they’re all in demand here,” O’Callaghan says. “But you have to enjoy the work. You have to love the clients, because not every minute is joyful.” Those who join the staff at Friendship Program often stay on long term. Seventeen of the staff members are at least 60 years old and have a combined 279 years of service. Friendship Program is well established and recognized for excellence. In 1996, it received CARF accreditation for case management and Day Rehabilitation Service. Formerly the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities,
CARF International was formed in 1966 by two national organizations -- the Association of Rehabilitation Centers and the National Association of Sheltered Workshops and Homebound Programs. In 2000, Friendship Program became the first Adult Day Service provider in Nebraska and only the 20th nationwide to earn CARF accreditation. “Everything we’ve accomplished is the result of a lot of good people coming together at just the right time,” O’Callaghan says. “Since Day One, we’ve never said, ‘How will we do this?’ It’s always been, ‘How can we do this?’” The challenges have been great over the past 35 years, but so too have the rewards. “I’ve been able to meet a lot of fascinating people and work with a terrific staff,” O’Callaghan says. “No two days here are ever alike. It’s more than a job, but I’m not quite sure what you’d call it.” Sister Rosemary Ronk For the thousands of asked O’Callaghan people the program she to start a program to co-founded has served, provide adult day they’d call it a friendship made in heaven. services in north Omaha.
Theater organ show scheduled for Aug. 17 at Rose Theater
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ou’re invited to attend the River City Theatre Organ Society’s presentation of A Sentimental Musical Journey on Sunday, Aug. 17. The 3 p.m. concert will be held at the Rose Theater, 2001 Farnam St. The festivities will include Jonas Nordwall accompanying a Laurel and Hardy film on the Rose’s mighty Wurlitzer theatre pipe organ. Johnny Ray Gomez and Johnny
Ray Gomez Jr. will be the special musical guests that afternoon. Pre-paid general admission tickets are $15 by mail through Aug. 7. Checks should be sent to: RCTOS, 2864 Katelyn Cir., Lincoln, Neb. 68516. Tickets will also be available at the door on Aug. 17 for $20. For more information, please call Jerry Pawlak at 402-421-1356.
Bill & Mary
Our services include: • Plan, schedule, and coordinate the move.
Bellevue Senior Community Center
• Arrange for utilities, cable, and mail delivery changes.
You’re invited to visit the Bellevue Senior Community Center – 109 W. 22nd Ave. – this month for: • July 3: Independence Day party with music by Tim Javorsky @ 11 a.m. • July 10: Join the Bellevue Senior Community Center staff and our board members from 5 to 7 p.m. for a fundraiser at ChickFil-A, 2016 Cornhusker Rd. in Bellevue. Ten percent of the funds raised during those two hours will benefit the senior center that will close at 4 p.m. that afternoon. No evening meal will be served at the senior center that night. • July 15: Senior Advisory Forum @ 11 a.m. The Bellevue Senior Community Center is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Thursday from 8 am to 8 p.m.
• Pack and unpack household contents, making the new home feel comfortable. • Make arrangements for an estate sale, auction, donation pickup, or even shipment. • Arrange for temporary storage • Coordinate cleaning, staging, and preparing the home prior to listing or closing.
Call today for a free estimate!
402-651-2711 movingon@cox.net www.movingonomaha.com
“ Love should be a tree whose roots are deep in the earth, but whose branches extend into heaven.” Bertrand Russe
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July 2014
A $3.50 contribution is suggested for lunch for anyone age 60+. A $9.25 contribution is suggested for those less than age 60. Reservations are due by noon the business day prior to the lunch you wish to enjoy. We offer chair volleyball on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 10:30 a.m. We have a Maj Jong group that plays Mondays at 11 a.m. Volunteers are needed for several positions including kitchen help (Tuesday), bus drivers, and Bingo callers (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 1 to 3 p.m.) Ellen Shank (aka the vegetable lady) will be at the center Tuesdays around 10 a.m. to sell fresh vegetables. Use your Farmers Market coupons or pay cash for her delicious produce. The center is teaming up
with the Salvation Army and 7 Can Help’s Back to School Backpack Program. We’ll accept backpacks, crayons, markers, rulers, glue, erasers, spiral notebooks, two pocket folders, pencils, pens, and filter paper through August. A box is located in the front lobby. Get your walking shoes ready for the Sarpy County Alzheimer’s Disease Walk on Saturday, Oct. 4 at Papillion-LaVista South High School, 10799 Hwy. 370. Walkers, volunteers, and people willing to make purple scarves to sell as a fundraiser are needed. Mark your calendars for the annual spaghetti dinner fundraiser at the Lied Center on Oct. 24. Music by Michael Lyon begins at 5 p.m. For meal reservations or more information, please call Regan or Cheryl @ 402-293-3041.
Think safety when using your grill
Corrigan Senior Center
You’re invited to visit the Corrigan Senior Center, 3819 X St. this month for: • Thursday, July 3: Celebrate Independence Day with a cheeseburger lunch. Wear your red, white, and blue while enjoying a picnic style lunch and Bingo. Come early for 10 a.m. Tai Chi and chair volleyball @ 11. • Monday, July 7: 7/7 Fun Day. Find the hidden 7s in the center gym on a scavenger hunt for prizes. Hit the 7s in Bingo for prizes. Come early for 10 a.m. chair volleyball. Stay for a noon lunch of a sausage on a bun or a deli tuna salad. The reservations deadline is noon on Thursday, July SCAM ALERT 3. • Wednesdays, July 9, 16, 23, and 30: WhyArts? John Friend, clerk of the Douglas County painting class with Joe Broghammer sponsored by the District Court, heard from a man who received a telephone call from a person claim- Corrigan Council @ 10:30a.m. Call 402-731-7210 to register for the classes. All paints and supplies are ing to be an authority over jury duty. furnished. Stay for a delicious noon lunch. The “jury duty authority” said the man • Thursday, July 17: Annual indoor picnic @ 11 a.m. was being fined $500 for failing to appear Dance to the Red Raven Polka Band, enjoy a noon lunch for jury duty and asked for the man’s credit from Lil’ Willy’s for $6. The meal features fried chicken card number to make the fine payment. with sides of potato salad, baked beans, and tossed salad. “The court and the jury commissioner will not call anyone and request payment of Lunch will also include a dinner roll and an ice cream any kind. If anything like this happens, it is sandwich. Stay for bingo @ noon. The reservation deadline is Thursday, July 10. a scam and you should not cooperate with • Monday, July 21: Health Travel Tips for Seniors the caller,” Friend said. presentation by Sedric from the Visiting Nurse Association Calls of this type should be reported to @ 11 a.m. The noon menu is a pineapple glazed chicken the Clerk of the Douglas County District breast or a deli choice of turkey, ham, and Swiss on a Court office at 402-444-7018. ciabatta roll. Stay for Bingo following lunch. • Thursday, July 31: Birthday party with “Barefoot Becky” Livermore @ 11 a.m. Bingo follows the noon lunch. New players are welcome to play chair volleyball every put $300 on a re-loadable an actual street in Houston,” Tuesday and Thursday @ 11 a.m. A noon lunch will pre-paid card called a said Hegarty. “The address Green Dot MoneyPak. She is meant to sound legitimate, follow. Join us for Tai Chi, a relaxing and fun activity that’s thought she was setting up when it is not. an account that would be “The bottom line is that it proven to improve your balance Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m. in our spacious gym. used to transfer her loan is illegal for companies to Bingo, ceramics, exercise, woodcarving, and loads of fun payments. She was unfamil- promise you a loan and ask iar with how a Green Dot you to pay fees in advance,” are also available. The Corrigan Senior Center is open weekdays from 8 MoneyPak works and didn’t added Hegarty. “Also, if a.m. to 4 p.m. Lunch is served at noon. A $3 contribution is know when she gave the you are handing over your normally suggested for the meal. Reservations are normally caller the numbers on her personal information to get due by noon the business day prior to the meal you wish to card; the money could be a loan without doing your enjoy. accessed immediately. research, you could be setFor meal reservations or more information, please call Such Green Dot transacting yourself up to have your Lynnette at 402-731-7210. tions are extremely difficult account drained by offshore to trace. Other phony loan scammers.” companies have used WestIf looking for a personal Fremont Friendship Center ern Union or MoneyGram loan, the BBB has the folJuly 2014 events calendar to obtain the payments. lowing advice: After releasing the num• Be wary of applying for You’re invited to visit the Fremont Friendship Center, bers, the woman was notionline loans through unfa1730 W. 16th St. (Christensen Field) this month for the folfied United Personal Only miliar businesses or weblowing: needed more money for sites. Many of these online • July 2: News with Nye @ 10 a.m. Patriotic music with “insurance.” That’s when application sites are run by Christine Coulson @ 10:30 a.m. she contacted the BBB. Al- scammers or by people who • July 13: John C. Fremont parade begins @ 1:30 p.m. though she closed her bank sell your information to Watch for the convertible with our King and Queen, Bill account, she’s receiving scammers. and Louise Mock. numerous loan applications • Understand requiring • July 14: Supper Club at the State Lakes. Meet at the through emails and up to that fees be paid as a condi- restaurant @ 5:30 p.m. You don’t need to get a park permit six phone calls per day from tion of receiving a loan is for that night as long as you’re just eating dinner. other online loan compaillegal. • July 16: Music by the Link Duo at 10:30 a.m. Celnies. • Don’t do business with ebrate our July birthdays at 11:30 a.m. BBB investigators believe anyone who can’t give you • July 23: Special music with Roger Webb @ 10:30 a.m. United Personal Only is a an address you can confirm • July 24: Presentation on the changes in Social Security fictitious business. It uses as legitimate. and how will they affect you with Peggy from Sen. Deb the same phone number as • Read any contract careFischer’s office at 10 a.m. another company, United fully and make sure you • July 29: Movie with Larry @10:30 a.m. Personal Loans, which also understand all requirements • July 30: Music by Jim Rathbun @ 10:30 a.m. appears to be fictitious. before entering into any • July 31: Talk on Medicare fraud by Pat Wilcox from They claim to be located at agreement. ENOA @ 10 a.m. 10970 West Hammer Rd. • Official-looking loan The Fremont Friendship Center is open Monday, in Houston, but the BBB documents and sophisticated Wednesday, and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Tuesday has learned this address is looking websites are easy to from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. invalid. copy or fake. Just because a Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m. A $3.50 donation is sug“When setting up this business appears legitimate, gested for lunch. Reservations must be made by noon the phony company, the scamdoesn’t mean it is. business day prior to the meal you wish to enjoy. mers probably used the Check for a BBB Business Other free activities include exercising, card games, bilname West Hammer Road Review by going to www. liards, and access to a computer lab. because it sounds like bbb.org or calling 800-649For meal reservations and more information, please call Westheimer Road which is 6814. Laurie at 402-727-2815.
Summer in Nebraska means outdoor grilling. Douglas County Health Director Dr. Adi Pour said a little planning could help make sure your cookout is safe. “The fun ends in a hurry if someone gets sick from your food,” Dr. Pour said. “However, it is very easy to prevent that.” Here are a few cooking safety rules: • Clean your grill between each use. • Use a meat thermometer to ensure that you thoroughly cook meat and poultry. • Beef and pork should be “rested” for three minutes to allow the heat to spread and kill more contaminants. • Always make sure you keep the cold foods cold, 41 degrees or below, and the hot foods hot, above 135 degrees. • Promptly refrigerate any leftovers. You should put cooked meat on a clean platter and not reuse a plate that was earlier used for raw meat to avoid cross-contamination. Also, if you marinated meat in a sauce, don’t reuse that sauce on cooked food. Always wash your hands, utensils, and cutting boards if they have been in contact with raw meat or poultry. The internal temperature of cooked meats should be 145 degrees for beef, pork,
steaks, roasts, and chops; 155 degrees for hamburger and other ground meats; and 165 degrees for poultry. If you’re reheating any precooked foods, they should be warmed to 165 degrees. “Using a thermometer is the only way to know the meat has reached a high enough temperature to destroy pathogens of public health concern,” Dr. Pour said.
Be aware of loan scams using BBB’s name
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he Better Business Bureau is warning area residents to be on the lookout for fictitious lenders using the BBB’s good name in fake loan schemes. A Kansas woman was recently targeted and lost several hundred dollars. “Desperate times are leading people to the Internet to apply for loans and many are falling deeper into debt after getting tangled up with fictitious lenders who have little regard for the law,” said the BBB’s local President and CEO Jim Hegarty. “Consumers nationwide continue to be victimized by sophisticated loan scams that demand up-front fees for personal loans that are never delivered.” An Arkansas City, Kan. woman who has a history of searching for loans online, recently received a phone call from United Personal Only. She was informed “they already had her bank account number on record and she qualified for a $5,000 loan that could be repaid at the rate of $141 per month.” The caller stated that United Personal Only is located in Houston, Texas and is “listed with the BBB.” Then, the consumer was told she’d need to pay $300 in advance to demonstrate she was able to pay the loan back “because the BBB likes people to show they can make payments on time.” As instructed, the woman
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AARP offering driving course AARP is offering a new four-hour, research-based Smart Driver Course for older adults. By completing the course, participants will learn research-based driving safety strategies that can reduce the likelihood of having an accident; understand the links between the driver, the vehicle, and the road environment, and how this awareness encourages safer driving; learn how aging, medications, alcohol, and health-related issues affect driving ability and ways to allow for these changes; increase confidence; know how to share the road safely with other drivers, and learn the newest safety and advance features in vehicles. The fee is $15 for AARP members and $20 for nonAARP members. No tests or examinations are involved, course completion certificates are provided, and auto insurance discounts may apply. Here’s this month’s schedule:
Friday, July 11 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Metropolitan Community College 9110 Giles Rd. Class ID #: AUAV-004N-70 Call 402-457-5231 to register Wednesday, July 30 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Trinity AgeWell by Immanuel 522 W. Lincoln Rd. Papillion Call 402-829-6907 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. to register
Older adults have free access to legal information
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egal Aid of Nebraska operates a free telephone access line for Nebraskans age 60 and older. Information is offered to help the state’s older men and women with questions on topics like bankruptcy, homestead exemptions, collections, powers of attorney, Medicare, Medicaid, grandparent rights, and Section 8 housing. The telephone number for the Elder Access Line is 402-827-5656 in Omaha and 1-800-5277249 statewide. This service is available to Nebraskans age 60 and older regardless of income, race, or ethnicity. For more information, log on the Internet to http://www.legalaidofnebraska.com/EAL.
PROMOTE INDEPENDENCE The Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging’s Meals on Wheels Programs provides hundreds of thousands of hot, nutritious meals each year. The meals are an important part of the agency’s mission of keeping older men and women living at home with independence and dignity.
Your support
From June 25 through July 4, you can help support this vital effort as part of the proceeds from purchasing fireworks at the location listed below will be donated to ENOA.
Wild Willy’s
is greatly appreciated.
3821 North 167th Court (Northeast of 168th Street and West Maple Road in the Shoppes of Elk Creek.) The tents will be open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Look for this Meals on Wheels banner !
Listening to music offers physical, mental benefits By Jen Vogt
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s we all know from hearing a song we associate with our first kiss, high school graduation, or wedding dance, music is profoundly linked to our personal memories. In fact, our brains are hard-wired to connect music with our long-term memory. More than bringing us happy memories, listening to music on a regular basis can help improve our lives in a number of ways, both physically and mentally. Music can help ease pain or improve sleep habits. It can be an added benefit to workouts because it creases endurance and boost motivation. Stress may be reduced, moods lifted, and cognitive performance increased all with the help of a relaxing melody. Adding music to your daily routine can be as simple as turning on the radio as you drive or when you’re cooking a meal at home. If you’re looking for a favorite song, try downloading music to your smart phone or mp3 device, such as an iPod. If you have a favorite type of music, but can’t find it on your tuner, try online radio stations like Pandora that allow you to create personalized radio stations to listen to via the Internet. Try incorporating music into your social activities. Summer in the Omaha metro area is a great time to introduce more music into your life while you’re enjoying time with friends, family, or a significant other. Free events include the Jazz on the Green concert series during July and August at Midtown Crossing and the Playing with Fire concert series through September on the Riverfront. This is also a great time to enjoy outdoor concerts at one of the many music venues throughout the area. For those who are suffering from chronic illness, music can be an invaluable tool on the road to recovery. Cancer patients who listen to music may be more likely to communicate their feelings, reduce stress and anxiety, and ease physical pain and discomfort with the help of music. By listening to music just two hours a day, stroke patients are more likely to increase their verbal memory and attention span. Even for individuals with severe dementia, music can tap deep emotional recall. Nursing homes and assisted living facilities incorporate music into their life enrichment programs. The benefits offered to residents living in these care communities are often the same as they are for individuals living at home – improved physical conditions, increased motivation and endurance during rehabilitation, improved memory recall, and reduced incidences of depression. If you or a loved one plans a move to a care community, consider bringing a radio or mp3 device to keep music as a part of your daily life. You may also want to ask staff members about incorporating personalized music programming into their activity schedules to reap the optimum benefits of listening to music. Regardless of your favorite songs or the type of music you gravitate toward, it’s clear music can play an important role in your physical and emotional well-being. So tap your toes, hum along, or belt out a favorite tune…it’s good for your health. (Vogt is with Midwest Geriatrics, Inc. in Omaha.)
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Study shows need for physician partners
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rimary care physicians already have enough administrative duties on their plates, and the implementation of electronic medical records has only added to their burden. As a result, they have less time to spend with their patients. A new University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) study, however, suggests a simple way to lighten their load. A “physician partner” whose role would be to work on those administrative tasks such as entering information into patient records, that take up so much of doctors’ time. A physician partner allows doctors to focus more of their attention on their patients and leads to greater patient satisfaction with their care, the UCLA researchers say. The study was published recently online in the peer-reviewed journal JAMA Internal Medicine. “Patients want their doctors to spend time with them and give them the attention that makes them feel more confident in their medical care. They don’t want to just sit there while their doctor is on the computer,” said Dr. David Reuben, chief of the division of geriatrics at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and the study’s primary investigator. “This also saves physicians a huge amount of time after patient sessions end, enabling them to spend more time with their families, keep up with the latest developments in medicine, and come back refreshed the next day.” From November 2012 through June 2013, five physicians in two academic practices - three geriatricians and two general internists - each utilized physician partners over a total of 326 four-hour clinic sessions. The partners worked alongside the physicians during patient visits and participated in team huddles, transcribed physician comments into patients’ records, pulled patient information from computer records, completed lab and referral requests, processed new prescriptions or medication refills, updated patient medication lists, scheduled follow-up appointments, and provided patients with their visit summaries. The physician partners were particularly beneficial for geriatricians, whose visits with patients averaged 2.8 minutes shorter with the partners than without them.
Geriatricians also saved an average of 28.8 minutes over the four-hour sessions with the physician partners, compared with doctors who did not have a partner. By contrast, sessions for the doctors lacking a physician partner ran long by an average of 8.1 minutes. The length of patient visits for the general internists who had a partner was not significantly shorter. These physicians did, however, spend less time between patients on visit preparation and note writing, which allowed them to catch up on other work such as returning calls and dealing with clinical issues involving patients who were not in the office. As a result, they saved nearly 40 minutes during the four-hour sessions and had essentially no paperwork remaining at the end of the sessions. Among patients, 79 percent thought the physician partners contributed toward making their visit run smoothly and only 18 percent were uncomfortable with the partners’ presence. In addition, 88 percent of the patients whose doctors had a physician partner in the room strongly agreed their physician spent enough time with them, compared with 75 percent whose physicians did not have a partner. The study is limited by the fact that only five doctors in two practices at one academic health center participated in the study, and there were too few doctors to statistically analyze satisfaction and burnout scales, the researchers note. Also, the geriatric patients were more likely to feel comfortable with the physician partners in the room than the general medicine patients, perhaps because older patients are more accustomed to having someone else, such as a caregiver or family member, in the room during their doctor visits. Also, the researchers did not evaluate the quality of care the patients received. Still, “the Physician Partners program provides a potential model to improve physician efficiency in the office setting without compromising patient satisfaction,” the researchers write. “Implementation and dissemination will depend upon local factors including staff availability and training, adaptation to the patient population and practice characteristics, cost and reimbursement structures, and willingness to invest in change.”
Omaha Sertoma Club asking for donations of unwanted clothing
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he Omaha Sertoma Club encourages area residents to collect used and unwanted clothing, shoes, hats, caps, belts, purses, bedding, and towels by cleaning out their closets and other places these things are stored. The items should then be placed in bags and taken to and placed inside the donation bin at the Westside Community Center near 108th and Grover streets. The tax-deductible donations will be recycled and sent overseas to people who need them. By helping to collect an estimated 21 billion pounds of unwanted clothing and keeping it out of landfills, the Sertoma Club will receive funds for its programs that help people with hearing impairments. For more information, please call Nebraska Business Solutions at 402-218-1299 or log on to www.sertoma.org.
WHITMORE LAW OFFICE Wills • Trusts • Probate
Ask A Lawyer: Q — What is “accidental disinheritance”? A — Accidental disinheritance occurs when an expected heir is cut out of an estate because of lack of planning, rather than intention. It can occur in a blended family, where “planning” consists of holding property in both names. For example, Husband and Wife each have children from a prior marraige. They hold all of their property jointly. Husband is the first to die, and Wife inherits everything. Later, Wife dies without proper planning. Result? Wife’s children receive all the family property. Husband’s children are “accidentally disinherited.” Have a question about estate planning? Give us a call! AARP Legal Service Network • No Charge For Initial Consultation
7602 Pacific Street, Ste 200 • (402) 391-2400 http://whitmorelaw.com
Combining exercise, a healthy diet By Mike Crawford
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emember being able to climb stairs without any trouble? What about running around the block and not being winded? After age 25, muscles begin to deteriorate. Often there are stories about 75-year-olds running fiveKilometer races, but how? The easy answer is magic, but the real answer is diet and exercise. What goes into the human body is just as important as what goes out. Whole grains, lean proteins, and fibrous fruits and vegetables are best for making sure the body gets an adequate amount of vitamins and
nutrients. Whole grains and carbohydrates are the foundation to nutrition. They’re filling and rich in fiber, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Stay away from refined grains, such as white bread, and choose whole wheat bread, whole-grain pasta, and brown rice instead. These grains can help prevent cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and greatly improve digestive health. If whole grains are the foundation, proteins are the building blocks to nutrition. Protein is full of nutrients such as iron, magnesium, and zinc. If the protein has too much fat, such as regular beef or hot dogs, LDL
cholesterol will increase. To reduce this, choose proteins such as grass-fed beef, almonds, and skinless chicken breasts. Compared to regular beef, there are 430 percent more Omega 3 acids and higher amounts of iron, zinc, phosphorus, niacin, riboflavin, and vitamin B12 in grassfed beef. These lean proteins keep muscles strong as well as build cartilage and healthy skin. Fruits and vegetables serve as quick and nutritional snacks and are rich in vitamins and minerals that help keep energy high. They’re not only full of fiber, which helps keep the --Please turn to page 16.
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Survey: Almost half of home accidents involving older adults can be avoided
The importance of learning how to treat your wounds
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lder adults and those people loss. Wounds often need surgical debridewho take care of them, are all ment, or dead or damaged tissue to be early 20 million Americans ages 65 and older too familiar with the frequency removed surgically – a painful and invasive visit the emergency room each year with alof wounds, especially chronic process. This process may also lead to an most one third of the visits related to injuries, wounds. It’s common for older men and overall tissue loss. The less surgical demany of which are sustained in the place older women to get wounds, which arise from a bridement that’s needed, the better off the adults are meant to feel the safest: their home. In fact, 65 wide variety of causes. In fact, the National person’s condition. percent of the homes in which an older American lives Institutes of Health (NIH) reports chronic • Moisture balance is crucial. One of have at least one potential safety issue, according to the diseases that compromise skin integrity are the most important requirements for having adult children of older adults surveyed by Home Instead, becoming increasingly common among the a successful healing process is creating an Inc. country’s older population. optimal moisture balance. A moist wound Almost half of all home accidents involving an older The more older adults and their caretakers environment helps the healing process, acman or woman (48 percent), however, can be avoided, know about wound care, the better they’ll be cording to the NIH, but it must be balanced, according to a recent survey of emergency room doctors. able to address the situation as it arises. because excessive moisture can damage These preventable home hazards such as throw rugs “Most seniors are going to experience surrounding skin and further deteriorate the or loose railings can be particularly harmful, leading to some type of wounds,” explains Dr. Oleg wound. falls and injuries that can impact an older adult’s ability Siniaguine, inventor and founder of OSNo“There are a lot of important factors that to live independently. However, the majority of older vative Systems, Inc., the company that has contribute into a successful wound healmen and women (85 percent) haven’t taken any steps created the first wound dressing of a new ing,” added Dr. Siniaguine. “The good news to prepare their homes for their changing needs as they self-adaptive class called Enluxtra. “The is we have designed Enluxtra to meet these grow older. good news is when you know about wounds needs, and others, in order to make the heal“The home should be the safest and most comfortyou will be better prepared to help people ing process easier and more successful.” able place for aging seniors,” says Vicki Castleman of care for them and to be able to heal propEnluxtra wound care dressing is a new the Home Instead Senior Care franchise office serving erly.” product designed to work with any wound Omaha. Here are five things older adults and their and make proper wound care as easy as caregivers need to know about wound care: possible, taking care of changing wound ome safety experts recommend adult children • Wounds are prolific. Older men and needs automatically. The dressing does not of older Americans take at least one day each women tend to get a lot of wounds. The NIH need any customization except choosing a year to perform a thorough safety check of their reports certain diseases such as diabetes and right size. parents’ home. To help families accomplish this goal and peripheral vascular disease makes it easier It’s a self-adapting solution, which means to help older men and women reduce the risk of injury to obtain wounds. As little as a small scratch it can sense the changing needs of the in their own homes, the Home Instead Senior Care office could lead to development of a chronic non- wound and properly address them. For exserving Omaha is offering a free home safety checklist, healing wound and may lead to amputations. ample, if the wound becomes too moist, or an online safety assessment and recommendations for Pressure ulcers, caused by unrelieved too dry, it reacts accordingly and adapts its inexpensive modifications that could ensure the safety pressure, are common among bedbound or function to what’s needed for proper healof older loved ones as part of the organization’s Making paraplegic older adults. Wounds can be a ing. The dressing also prevents bacterial Home Safer for Seniors program. life threatening condition. growth and serves as a barrier for keeping For more information, please call Home Instead at • Healing takes stages. The healing infection out of the wound while still being 402-498-3444. process of the typical wound undergoes four breathable. main stages: coagulation, inflammation, proEnluxtra wound dressing is covered by liferation, and maturation. However in the Medicare and Medicaid, cleared by the presence of certain diseases or in advanced FDA, can be used for up to 10 days (deage most wounds tend to stall when they pending on drainage level), is simple to apreach the inflammation stage, making it dif- ply, does not stick to a wound, and is very ficult to continue the healing process. easy to remove. • Infection must be prevented. One of Enluxtra is effective on most wounds etective Rick Belik becoming fraud victims. the major problems that can arise when including lacerations, graft wounds, burns, from the Omaha Seating is limited, so trauma wounds, post-operative surgical Police Department’s reservations are required. To treating a wound is infection. There must be steps taken in order to prevent infection wounds, pressure and venous ulcers, leg Major Crimes Unit-Fraud register or for more infordevelopment and excessive bacteria growth ulcers, etc. division will be the feamation, please call VAS at for proper healing to take place. It can be purchased without a prescription tured speaker during two 402-444-6617. • Surgical debridement increases tissue online at www.anywound.com. programs at the Volunteers Assisting Seniors (VAS) ofView video on scams fice, 1941 S. 42nd St. (Center on Facebook, YouTube Mall), Suite 312. The programs, which will The Better Business be held from 1 to 2 p.m., are Bureau is encouraging --Continued from page 15. also increase energy levels and joints as well as muscle scheduled for Friday, Aug. 1 consumers to view a digestive system working, because of an increased tension. Swimming develand Friday, Oct. 3. video on scams through they can also help reduce blood circulation. Regularly ops flexibility and endurFacebook or on YouTube. the risk of heart disease, stretching the neck, shoulance, and it simultaneously elik said the talk will The Facebook address high blood pressure, and ders, arms, chest, back, hips, stretches and strengthens the be about scams and is www.facebook.com/ some forms of cancer. and legs will ensure daily muscles in the back, arms, fraud trends affecting bbb1936. The easiest thing to do activities can be completed. legs, and shoulders. older adults locally. Topics The video is also after a long day is to sit • Brisk walking regularly Water aerobics is a social will include typical behavior available on YouTube at down and watch television; can help strengthen bones, way to condition the body’s by scam artists, what to look http://www.youtube.com/ however, sitting still is one improve balance and coorstrength, without lifting for, and how to educate inBBBofNESDIA. of the worst things to do dination, maintain a healthy weights. With both exerdividuals to keep them from for the body. Many experts weight, and helps regulate cises be sure to stretch and are even describing sitemotions by boosting posidrink plenty of water before ting as “the new smoking.” tive thinking. and after getting into the Muscles and joints need Start slowly and build pool. movement to stay lubricated up speed to gain the greatThere is no “get healthy “As Is,” At a Fair Price, On the Date of Your Choice !!!! and powerful. Try these est benefits. Also, be sure quick” method. The best • We use private funds so we can close fast. low-impact exercises to im- to stretch before and after way to ensure the body • You don’t have to do any repairs. prove muscle function and walking to keep the muscles stays healthy is to feed it • Move when you want. decrease the risk of sarcope- loose. fruits, vegetables, whole • Leave any or all of your stuff. nia, or loss of muscle mass. Swimming and water grains, and protein as well • No Commissions or Fees. We pay Closing Costs. • Stretching improves aerobics are excellent forms as to make sure the muscles Call Today for a Free Report: (402)-291-5005 or muscle flexibility, reduces of exercise because there’s continue to move, stretch, www.7DaysCash.com muscle tension, and enless impact on joints in and strengthen. hances muscular coordinawater. Water removes the (Crawford is a partner in The Sierra Group LLC / We are a Professional Home Buying Company BBB Member Member of The Sierra Group LLC is a licensed real estate agent tion, which leads to less risk power of gravity, which Chisholm Trail Grass-fed for injury. Stretching can helps relieve stress on bones Beef in Texas.)
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OPD detective Rick Belik presenting talks on fraud
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Exercise, dietary benefits...
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S e l l Yo u r H o u s e
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Don, Marjorie Browers are helping out Humanity
Don Browers joined Habitat in 2008 in a marketing role. Within three years he was working on a rehab project in Haiti. By Jeff Reinhardt New Horizons Editor
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or many people, their retirement years are spent on the golf course or relaxing at home with the remote control in one hand and a favorite beverage in the other. For Don Browers and Marjorie, his wife for 43 years, retirement is a bit more labor intensive. The Browers are volunteers with Habitat for Humanity, an international non-profit organization that since its founding in 1976, has built simple, decent, and affordable housing in the United States and abroad. Based in Georgia, Habitat has helped more than four million people construct, rehabilitate, or preserve homes using volunteer labor. Don – who still works part-time as a self-employed marketing and advertising consultant – spent 23 years with Omaha’s KMTV and seven years at KETV before stepping down in 2008. His television duties included writer/producer, program director, production manager, and sales account executive. Marjorie spent 25 years at Data Systems as the company’s office and purchasing manager. In 2008, Tracie McPherson, public relations director for Habitat for Humanity’s Omaha affiliate, approached Don – a Kearney native – about helping out with the organization’s marketing campaign. Browers accepted the offer, became impressed with Habitat’s operation and model, and by 2011, was ready to start swinging a hammer. Later than year, he was one of 400 volunteers, including six from Omaha, that traveled to Haiti to help rebuild the impoverished nation
devastated by a January 2010 earthquake. Working side by side with dozens of Haitians in Santo, the Habitat volunteers built 100 homes in seven days. “It was hot, sweaty, hard work and the most meaningful week of my life,” Browers said recently during an interview in his west Omaha home. “It was my first hard look at all the good Habitat does.” Among the crew of Habitat volunteers in Haiti that week were former United States President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalyn Carter, then ages 87 and 84, respectively. Despite the 100 degree temperatures and 90 percent humidity, the Carters pounded nails, put up walls, etc. each day, according to Browers, who shared a tent with five other men during his week in Haiti. “We did some good, but you walk away and realize we have so much more to do,” Browers said reflecting on his journey to Haiti, the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere.
Marjorie Browers was part of a group of 12 Habitat for Humanity volunteers that went to Romania in 2013. Building homes abroad is quite different than in the United States, according to Don. “Here the tools are cheap and the labor is expensive. Over there the tools are expensive and the labor is cheap.” In November 2013, Don, nine other Omahans, and Rick Wegman, a friend from West Virginia, visited Paraguay to build a Habitat for Humanity house for a family. Last month, Browers, Wegman, and another Habitat group from Omaha traveled to Macedonia to rehabilitate homes.
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on and Marjorie said Habitat for Humanity “works” for a variety of reasons including corporations that donate money and allow their staffs to provide labor. Habitat is a great way for people
of any age to give back to the community, whether at home or abroad, the Browers agreed. “You don’t need construction skills, but you do need to have a willing heart,” Don said. He said working in a nation and helping out its men and women is a great way to travel overseas. “You get to see a country and meet the people on a much deeper level than you would as a tourist. You’re giving people a hand up and not a handout.” While you need to be in reasonably good physical condition to volunteer, Browers said being part of Habitat is a great experience. “You’ll get a lot more out of it than you give,” he added. To learn more about Habitat for Humanity Omaha, please call 402457-5657.
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rowers said Habitat for Humanity’s Omaha affiliate is committed to making two “global village” trips each year. To that end, in April 2013, Don – by then a Habitat team leader – took 12 volunteers to Romania. For Marjorie, who grew up on a farm near Gibbon and had worked with several Habitat for Humanity Omaha rehab projects, this was her baptism into an overseas rebuilding effort. She helped out with the trip’s logistics and dug trenches for four sewer lines that were installed for a four-unit townhouse the crew built. “I know what hard work is and that lived up to my expectations,” she said.
Marjorie Browers stands in a muddy trench she helped dig for sewer line installations at a Romanian townhouse.
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Dance Wednesdays at Legion Post #1
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ou’re invited to attend a dance each Wednesday afternoon from 1 to 4 p.m. at American Legion Post #1, 7811 Davenport St. Admission is $2. For more information, please call 402-392-0444.
Retired fed employees meet at Omaha eatery The National Association of Retired Federal Employees’ Chapter 144 meets the first Wednesday of each month at 11:30 a.m. at the Amazing Pizza Machine, 13955 S Plz. For more information, please call 402-333-6460. The National Association of Retired Federal Employees’ Aksarben Chapter 1370 meets the second Wednesday of each month at 11:30 a.m. at the Amazing Pizza Machine, 13955 S Plz. For more information, please call 402-392-0624.
AARP chapter hosting Advice for getting program on Alzheimer’s By Chris Faulkner The Mid City chapter of AARP 5253 invites you to attend a free session on Alzheimer’s Disease in the African-American Community on Saturday, July 26 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Malcolm X Foundation, 3448 Evans St. Vivyonne Ewing from the Midlands chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association will be the featured speaker. The event is open to AARP members and nonmembers. For more information, call Mary Hill at 402-457-5169. CORRECTIONS Corrections are necessary to two articles that appeared in the June New Horizons about the 2014 Poetry Across the Generations contest. Aileen Johnston should have been identified as the winner of the Dale Wolf Memorial Award. Mr. Wolf passed away in 2012.
Omaha Computer Users Group You’re invited to join the Omaha Computer Users Group (OCUG), an organization dedicated to helping men and women age 50 and older learn more about their computers. Anyone can join OCUG regardless of his or her computer skills. The organization’s 50 members meet the fourth Saturday of each month from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Benson Library, 6015 Binney St. Annual dues to OCUG, which has existed for 15 years, are $25. Members will have access to updated laptop computers with Microsoft Office 2010, the Microsoft 8 operating system, a Power Point projector, and a printer. Each month, OCUG meetings address members’ questions and teach new techniques. For more information, please call OCUG’s president Phill Sherbon at 402-333-6529.
A Caring Community Called HOME!
49th & Q Street • 402-731-2118 www.southviewheightsomaha.com
New Horizons
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than what’s recommended can be unsafe. Consider switching to synthetic oil which can reduce powertrain friction, improve fuel mileage, and contribute years to the life of your engine. Your car will also require far less oil changes once you move over to synthetic. • Download a gas app for your phone. If you have a Smartphone, there are plenty of free apps that can help you find the cheapest gas near your destination. GasBuddy makes it easy with its free app, and Mapquest has an online finder for gas prices. • Don’t let your car idle, either when you warm it up or when you’re at a standstill. If you’re going to be standing for more than a minute, running your engine wastes more gas than restarting the engine. • Keep your windows closed when driving on the highway. Open windows can reduce your gas mileage by as much as 10 percent. In stop-and-go traffic, open the windows and turn off the air conditioning to save more money. • Rent fuel-efficient cars when you travel and research reasonably priced places to buy gas before you leave. • Confirm with your mechanic what octane gasoline your car’s engine really needs. Most car engines don’t require high octane though the manual will say it’s recommended. • Buy discount gas gift cards. • Be loyal to one gas company and get rewarded with its cash-back credit card reward program. (Faulkner is the president and CEO of Breitling Oil and Gas.)
Computer classes on Mondays You’re invited to attend basic computer skills classes at the Heartland Workforce Solutions American Job Center, 5752 Ames Ave. The courses are held Mondays from 1 to 4 p.m. Participants will receive hands on training and learn how to use a personal computer, how to search the Internet, and learn Microsoft programs. For more information, please call Barbara Thomas at 402-451-1066, ext. 35.
Making Medicare make sense
A: There are several ways to cut the cost of your medicines without compromising your health. For starters, talk to your doctor and see if there are other, lessexpensive medicines available. These can be generic formulations, lower-priced brand name medications, or even over-the-counter drugs. Switching may save you a lot of money. If your doctor can recommend a lower cost medication option, make sure your prescription drug plan will help pay for it before switching. If you can’t switch to a less expensive medication,
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ere are some tips to help you get the most from each gallon of gasoline your vehicle uses: • Learn the basics of safe “hypermiling,” a style of driving that maximizes fuel efficiency. Techniques range from drafting to coasting and can save you a surprising amount of fuel. • Park in the shade. Gasoline evaporates out of your fuel tank, and regardless of season, will do so quicker when you park in the sun. Parking in the shade will also maintain a cooler temperature inside your car. Therefore you’ll need to use less air conditioning. If shade is unavailable, park so your gas tank is facing away from the direct sun. Also, buy gas when it’s cooler during the day (early morning or at night) to reduce gas evaporation. • Avoid the convenient gas station on the side of the highway as you drive home from work that can be up to 15 cents more per gallon. • Save money with self service and look for gas stations where paying cash costs the same as using a credit or debit card. Double check the attendant and make sure if you’re paying by cash, that cash is noted on the pump. You could lose five cents a gallon if he mistakenly presses credit. • Fill up your tank on Wednesday or Thursday before 10 a.m. Gas prices rise on Thursdays in anticipation of weekend travel. Most station owners make their price change for the day at 10 a.m. Unless it’s an emergency; don’t buy gas on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. • Switch to high performance spark plugs. Iridium-tipped performance plugs create a more robust combustion spark that contributes to a fuller, more efficient burn in the chamber. Doing this will provide increased power, improved fuel efficiency, and lower emissions. • Buy a different car such as a diesel, a hybrid, or consider adding a scooter, motorcycle, or moped to your garage. • Use the lowest viscosity oil that’s recommended by your car manufacturer. Note, though, using oil with a viscosity lower
Q: As a Medicare beneficiary, how can I lower the costs of the prescription drugs I need to stay healthy?
Independent & Assisted Living
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the most from every gallon of gas
consider using a mail order pharmacy, particularly for medicines you’ll be taking for a long time. You usually have to purchase mail order prescriptions in three-month quantities. Most of the time, you’ll pay less by ordering this way. Renewing your order is as simple as a phone call. Be sure to check with your doctor about getting a renewable prescription. If you’re not part of a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan, joining one of these plans can help, especially if you have multiple prescriptions or take expensive brand name drugs. You can join a Medicare Part D plan during your initial Medicare enrollment period. In most cases, the only other time you can join a Part D plan is during the
Oct. 15 to Dec. 7 open enrollment period. There are, however, some exceptions. One exception is for people who qualify for Medicare’s Extra Help program to pay for prescriptions. If you meet the income and resource qualifications for this program, your prescription drug costs drop sharply. In many cases, you won’t have to pay a monthly premium for the plan. If you qualify for Extra Help, you can enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan immediately without waiting for the open enrollment period to start cutting costs as quickly as possible. To apply for the Extra Help program, contact Social Security at 1-800772-1213 (TTY 1-800-3250778) or apply online at www.socialsecurity.gov.
Julu 2014
Listed by chiropractor, author
The eight essentials to optimum mental, physical, spiritual health
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magine you’re a spider with just one leg,” says Dr. Frank King. “You put forth immense effort to try to haul yourself around and not only does it wear you out, it’s frustrating, and you don’t get far.” King is a chiropractor and doctor of naturopathy specializing in homeopathic remedies, and author of the book The Healing Revolution. “It gets a bit easier with two legs and easier still with four legs. But it’s not until you have all eight legs that you can really dance.” Dr. King explains the eight legs represent eight essentials we need for optimum mental, physical, and spiritual health: Empowering your human spirit; water; nutrition; fitness; sleep; nature; relationships; and hands on techniques (touch). “It would be overwhelming and self-defeating to look at all eight areas and think, ‘I have to make significant changes in every area immediately,’” Dr. King says. “You don’t have to and who could? I know from my experience with countless patients and friends, and even in my own life, that you can see immediate results by making a few small changes at a time.” Dr. King describes three lifestyle changes that are easy to make and will have you feeling better quickly. • Drink half your body weight in ounces of spring or well water every day. If you weigh 150 pounds, that’s 75 ounces of water (about nine cups). “Many of us walk around dehydrated without realizing it and that can have a significant effect on our health and how we feel,” Dr. King says. “Dehydrated bodies trap toxins and encourage water retention – a natural defense against the chronic drought. “Our bodies need the steady flow of pure, spring, or well water. If you don’t like the taste, try mixing up to a teaspoon of sea salt into a quart of water,” he says. A simple test for dehydration: Pinch the skin on the back of your hand and hold for three seconds. When you release, if the ridge from the pinch remains for more than a second, you’re probably dehydrated. • Take at least a few minutes every day to connect with nature. Nature brings perpetual revitalization and ongoing renewal, especially when experienced through multiple senses: the smell of freshly turned earth or evergreens in the woods, the touch of cool stream water on your face or feet, the sight of birds on the wing, and budding blooms. “These are not just pleasant little gifts to experience – we need them for restoration, renewal, revival, and rehabilitation,” Dr. King says. “The more disconnected we become from the Earth, the more we inhibit our body’s natural ability to heal.” • Take a brisk, 10 to 20-minute walk every day. Walking is the simplest, most natural form of exercise. You might walk a nature trail, walk to the store instead of driving, or take your pet for a stroll. “Three brisk 10-minute walks a day are as effective at lowering blood pressure as one 30-minute walk,” Dr. King says, citing an Arizona State University study. “Outdoor walking is preferable to walking on a treadmill or other machine, since the uneven surfaces and changing directions of natural walking will engage more muscles and tendons.” Swing each arm in synchronization with the opposite foot to strengthen your cross-crawl functionality and mind-body balance.
CLASSIFIEDS Lamplighter II
Some of the nicest, newer 1 bedroom apartments. Elevator, w & d, heated parking garage. Small complex. By bus & shopping. No pets or smoking.
POOL TABLES Moving, refelting, assemble, repair, tear down. Used slate tables. We pay CASH for slate pool tables.
Big Red Billiards 402-598-5225
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Interested in providing respite care for people with a disability? Contact the Respite Resource Center today to learn more.
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FOR RENT
Senior Citizens (62+) Accepting applications for HUD-subsidized apartments in Papillion & Bellevue. Rent determined by income and medical expenses. Monarch Villa West 201 Cedar Dale Road Papillion (402) 331-6882 Bellewood Courts 1002 Bellewood Court Bellevue (402) 292-3300
AARP needs vols for its information center
Very nice 50+ community. One bedroom apartments. Energy efficient. Nine 4-plex buildings on two quiet & serene acres. Private entrances. NO STAIRS. Lots of parking. On-site laundry. Pets OK. Section 8 OK. Take a look; you will want to call it home. Northridge Apartments 10747 Old Maple Road Call 402-498-0684 or 402-212-2795
REPUTABLE SERVICES, INC. • Remodeling & Home Improvement • Safety Equipment Handrails Smoke and Fire Alarms
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ARP is recruiting older men and women to serve as volunteers at its Nebraska Information Center, 1941 S. 42nd St. (Center Mall). Volunteers can choose the days and hours they wish to volunteer at the center that is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, please call 402-398-9568.
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• Painting Interior & Exterior • Handyman Services • Senior Discounts • Free Estimates • References • Fully Insured
ENOA Aging July 2014
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Quality Professional Service Better Business Bureau Member
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New Horizons
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Enjoy Jazz on the Green Thursday nights July 10 through Aug. 14 Led by UNMC’s Dr. Corrine Hansen maha Performing Thursday, except for July 17 when it opens after the United Study shows link between healthy eating, Arts will present its States Navy Parachute Team lands at Turner Park at 5:45 improved lung function in those with COPD
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Jazz on the Green concert series at Midtown Crossing this summer. The free outdoor concert series will run six consecutive Thursdays from July 10 to Aug. 14 at Turner Park in the heart of Midtown Crossing. Concerts will begin at 7:30 p.m. on the permanent stage of The Pavilion at Turner Park. The lawn is open at 5 p.m. every
p.m. A new addition to Jazz on the Green in 2014 will be free dance lessons before two of the performances. Omaha Ballroom, under the direction of Elizabeth Edwards, will offer free dance lessons prior to the performances on July 24 (salsa dancing) and Aug. 7 (swing dance). Lessons will begin at 6:45 p.m. and last 30 minutes. For more information, please call 402-345-0202.
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new study led by a University of Nebraska Medical Center researcher shows a direct link between eating fish, fruit, and dairy products and improved lung function among patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Conducted by researchers in the United States and Europe, the ongoing study looked at COPD patients’ lung function within 24 hours of eating grapefruit, bananas, fish, and cheese. “Diet is a potentially modifiable risk factor in the development and progression of many diseases, and there is evidence that diet plays a role in both the development and clinical features of COPD,” said the study’s lead author Corinne Hanson, Ph.D., assistant professor in the UNMC School of Allied Health Professions. “This study aimed to evaluate that association.” Researchers used data from the Evaluation of COPD Longitudinally to Identify Predictive Surrogate Endpoints study (ECLIPSE). ECLIPSE was designed to help determine how COPD progresses and to identify biomarkers associated with the disease. Limited diet records were available for 2,167 ECLIPSE participants who provided dietary intake information at eight time points over a three-year period. Each participant reported the amount of a
Your home.Your care.Your pace.
Your home is best and Immanuel Pathways’ goal is to help you continue living in your home as long as possible. Our program provides a complete system of health care. The service is called PACE, which stands for: Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly. We provide primary and hospital care as well as prescription drugs, adult day services, transportation and so much more to our participants. Services are provided in the home, at the PACE Center and in the community. For complete program details and benefits, please call 402-991-0330.
5755 Sorensen Parkway | Omaha, NE 68152 | www.immanuelpathways.org PACE participants may be fully and personally liable for the costs of unauthorized or out-of-PACE program services. Emergency services are covered. Participants may disenroll at any time.
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New Horizons
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July 2014
Dr. Corrine Hansen specific food they had consumed during the previous 24 hours. Researchers looked at specific standard lung function measurements for the same group of people, including a six-minute walk test and scores and inflammatory biomarkers from the St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ). Results were adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, and smoking. They found people who reported recently consuming fish, grapefruit, bananas, or cheese had showed improvement in lung function, less emphysema, improved six-minute walk scores, improved SGRQ scores, and a decrease in certain inflammatory markers associated with poor lung function including white blood cells and C-reactive protein. “This study demonstrates the nearly immediate effects a healthy diet can have on lung function in a large and well-characterized population of COPD patients,” Dr. Hanson said. “It also demonstrates the potential need for dietary and nutritional counseling in patients who have COPD.” Based on these results and the results of other studies indicating a link between COPD and diet, the role of diet as a possible modifiable risk factor in COPD warrants continued investigation, she added. (UNMC provided this information.) Bilingual resource information Bilingual information about hospice care, palliative care, helping loved ones with grief and loss, and caregiving is available through the Nebraska Hospice and Palliative Care Partnership. The number for the Cuidando con Carino Compassionate Care HelpLine is (toll free) 1-877-658-8896.