A publication of the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging
January 2014 VOL. 39 • NO. 1
ENOA 4223 Center Street Omaha, NE 68105-2431
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID OMAHA NE PERMIT NO. 389
New Horizons ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
Champion Ira Combs is the community liaison nurse coordinator in the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s Center for Reducing Health Disparities. In 2013, the White House staff selected Combs to be a Public Health and Prevention Champion of Change. Nick Schinker’s profile of Combs begins on page 10.
Dancing Hailey Jean and Glenn Blumer, fifth graders at Omaha’s Joslyn Elementary School, were among the dancers who performed recently at a holiday in-service for ENOA’s Foster Grandparent Program. See page 14.
What’s inside January calendar of events ....................................2 The dangers of distracted driving ..........................3 Bedsores can be fatal ............................................4 ‘Read it & eat’ ........................................................5 Good posture often means good health .................7 Can you walk, talk at the same time? .....................8 Ice skate at the UNMC rink ................................. 13 Firestone makes donation to MoW program ...... 14 Farm Credit Services donates to SeniorHelp ...... 16 Dressing for frigid weather ................................. 18 Keep your vehicle running this winter ................ 18
January 2014 events calendar 1 Celebrate Black History Month in Stamps Through March 1 Boys Town 402-498-1141 11 ELVIS LIVES The Ultimate Tribute Artist Event Orpheum Theater 8 p.m. 402-345-0606
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17 George Strait in Concert CenturyLink Center Omaha 7:30 p.m. $75.50 to $96.50 402-341-1500 Having Our Say The Delany Sisters First 100 Years Through February 9 Omaha Community Playhouse Wednesday – Saturday @ 7:30 p.m. Sunday @ 2 p.m. 402-553-0800
Lot # 257 3 bed 1 bath $10,000
20 American Muralist Louis Grell Through February 20 Weber Fine Arts Building University of Nebraska at Omaha campus Monday – Thursday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. FREE 402-554-2796
Lot # 27 2 bed 2 bath $20,000
Lot # 247 2 bed 1 bath $2,800
23 The Midlands International Auto Show Through January 26 CenturyLink Center Omaha 402-341-1500
Lot # 392 3 bed 2 bath $3,300
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24 Omaha Symphony Festival of the Americas Program 1 Also January 25 Program 2 Holland Performing Arts Center 8 p.m. $27 to $80 402-345-0606 26 Martha Graham Dance Company Orpheum Theater 7 p.m. 402-345-0606 30 Sid the Science Kid Live Orpheum Theater 7 p.m. 402-345-0606 31 Bill O’Reilly No Spin Zone Ralston Arena 8 p.m. $79 to $250 402-934-6291 Nebraska Big Buck Classic Through February 2 CenturyLink Center Omaha Friday 3 to 9 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. $5 and $10 402-707-4885 The Grocer’s Goblin & The Little Mermaid Through February 18 The Rose Theater Friday @ 7 p.m. Saturday @ 2 & 5 p.m. Sunday @ 2 p.m. $18 402-345-4849
Researchers: Distracted driving is a serious health threat From texting and talking on cell phones to eating while driving, researchers say distracted driving is a serious public health threat. Though motor vehicle deaths have been declining nationally, a recent study by researchers at the University of Nebraska Medical Center found that deaths in pedestrians and cyclists are increasing. From 2005 to 2010, the national number of pedestrians struck and killed by distracted drivers went up from 344 to 500 – an almost 50 percent increase. For cyclists, the numbers killed went from 56 to 73, a 30 percent increase. “We’re constantly exposed to distracted drivers. I don’t think there’s a day I don’t see someone driving and using their cell phone, (and) a lot of times they’re texting,” said Fernando Wilson, Ph.D., associate professor in UNMC’s College of Public Health. “It’s something that’s pervasive in society. That’s one of the reasons it’s so difficult to deal with. “It’s not like seat belt usage and securing your child into a safety seat. If you don’t do these things, which now are the social norm – it’s viewed negatively. The laws are stricter. With cell phones, we don’t have that social stigma. Not to mention that distracted driving is more difficult to enforce than other driving safety laws.” The report, published in a recent issue of Public Health Reports, documents trends and characteristics of pedestrians, bicyclists, and other victim deaths caused by distracted drivers on U.S. public roads. The report does not document injuries. Dr. Wilson believes statistics related to distracted driving might be underreported due to the difficulty of law enforcement proving distracted driving. That in turn makes it difficult to affect policies to curb distracted driving. “The evidence on policies curbing distracted driving is very mixed and some
research suggests policies are just not working – that we’re not really making a dent on distracted driving,” he said. “If that’s the case, we need to think about marked crosswalks, bike paths – the environment that tries to create a separation between pedestrians and bicyclists with traffic.” Researchers used data from the Fatality Analysis Reporting System on crashes on public roads in the U.S. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration identifies distracted driving based on whether police investigators determined that a driver had been using a technological device, an onboard navigation system, a computer, a fax machine, a two-way radio, or head-up display, or had been engaged in inattentive or careless activities. Dr. Wilson said the study also found that 65 percent of pedestrian victims of distracted driving crashes were males between the ages of 25 and 64 and Caucasian. The victims also were more likely to be struck outside of a marked crosswalk and be inside a city. Bicycling victims were mostly male (83 percent) between the ages of 25 to 64 years old and Caucasian. About half of pedestrian and cyclist fatalities from distracted driving occurred during daytime hours. “People have to be aware that this problem is not going away anytime soon,” Dr. Wilson said. “So when you’re crossing the street or cycling, you need to be cognizant about this new threat to roadway safety.” (UNMC’s Public Relations Department provided this information.)
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Membership includes a subscription to the New Horizons newspaper. New Horizons Club Send Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging 4223 Center Street to: Omaha, NE 68105-2431 I get the New Horizons regularly and don’t need to be put on the mailing list. I would like to start receiving the New Horizons at home. My address is below. NAME ADDRESS CITY/STATE/ZIP
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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.
• Quality staff specializing in Alzheimer’s & dementia care • Secure, cozy, home-like environment
Editor..............................................Jeff Reinhardt Ad Mgr................Mitch Laudenback, 402-444-4148 Contributing Writers......Nick Schinker, Leo Biga, & Lois Friedman
• One-level floor plan • Quiet, calming atmosphere • Activities and Home Cooked Meals provided 17620 Poppleton Ave. Omaha, NE 68130 402.333.5749 edgewoodseniorliving.com 2910 N Clarkson St • Fremont, NE 68025 • 402.753.8800
January 2014
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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Bedsores kill 60,000 annually in USA
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.
2014 Dinner at Misty’s. January 19. $50. Join us for dinner on Sunday evening at the famous Misty’s Steakhouse in Lincoln. “Hello Dolly” featuring Sally Struthers. January 26. $129. Join us for this Sunday evening performance; the only Sioux City performance of “Hello Dolly” starring Sally Struthers from “All in the Family.” Branson’s “Brother South” in Sioux City. March 31. $99. ($89 before 1/31/14.) Spend a fun afternoon at the Orpheum reminiscing, singing, and swaying to rock and roll, honky tonk, and classic country performed by “Brother South” from Branson. “Harvey” at the New Theater. April 2. $139. ($129 before 2/2/14.) Take a Wednesday trip to Kansas City and enjoy lunch and “Harvey” starring Judge Reinhold from “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” and “Beverly Hills Cop.” West Side Story. May 6. $129. ($119 before 3/6/14.) Enjoy an exciting Tuesday evening at the only Broadway performance of this incredible musical at Sioux City’s Orpheum Theater. “Miracle on South Division Street” at the New Theater. May 21. $139. ($129 before 3/21/14.) Take a Wednesday trip to Kansas City to see Connie Stevens perform with her real life daughter while enjoying an awesome lunch! Daniel O’Donnell in Sioux City. June 1. Call for pricing. Due to the popularity of this entertainer, deposits are required by January 15 to guarantee your seat. Daniel O’Donnell in Des Moines. June 5. Call for pricing. Due to the popularity of this entertainer, deposits are required by January 15 to guarantee your seat. “Smokey Joe’s Cafe” at the New Theater. June 21. $139. ($129 before 4/21/14.) Come along on a Saturday trip to Kansas City and enjoy a rock ‘n’ roll musical revue, as well as a wonderful lunch buffet at the New Theater. Featured songs include: On Broadway, Hound Dog, Jailhouse Rock, Stand By Me, Spanish Harlem, Love Potion #9, Young Blood, Yakety Yak, I’m a Woman, and Kansas City. Arrow Rock, Blackwater, & the Clydesdales. August 9 - 11. $TBD. Shop and explore in a Missouri village that is a National Historic Landmark. Attend the historic theater and tour the ranch where the Budweiser Clydesdales are raised. Nebraska Junk Jaunt…with a Twist. September 26 – 27. $TBD. 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! Branson Christmas with Daniel O’Donnell. November 10 – 13. $TBD. Besides Daniel O’Donnell, enjoy “Jonah” at the Sight & Sound Theater, a backstage tour of Sight & Sound, Patsy Cline Remembered, The Brett Family with lunch, The Toy Shoppe, and #1 Hits of the 60’s. In Partnership with Collette Vacations New York City. May 15 - 19, 2014. Five Days. Two Broadway shows, Greenwich Village, Wall Street, Ground Zero, Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York Harbor Cruise, and Ellis Island. Stay at the Sheraton Hotel and Towers in the heart of New York, six blocks from Central Park! Northern National Parks. July 15 - 22, 2014. Eight days. Salt Lake City, Jackson Hole, Yellowstone National Park, Old Faithful, Grand Teton National Park, Park City. Four-night stay at the Snow King Lodge in Jackson, Wy. Reflections of Italy. September 10 - 19, 2014. 10 days. Rome, Coliseum, Assisi, Perugia, Siena, Florence, Chianti Winery, Venice, Murano Island, Como, and Lugano, Switzerland. Spectacular South Africa. November 10 - 22, 2014. 13 days. Enjoy springtime in South Africa including Johannesburg, Soweto, Kruger National Park, a Safari Game Drive, a lagoon cruise in the Knysna Featherbed National Reserve, an Ostrich Farm visit, Cape Winelands, Cape Town, Table Mountain, traditional African dining, and more. A trip of a lifetime! Laughlin Laughlin in January. January 3 – 6. $289. Includes non-stop, round-trip airfare to Laughlin, Nevada, three nights lodging at the Riverside Resort and Casino on the banks of the Colorado River, and shuttle transportation to and from the airport. During this trip “The Golden Boys” starring Frankie Avalon, Boby Rydell, and Fabian Forte will perform at the Edgewater Resort. Laughlin in February. February 21 - 24. $300. Includes non-stop, round-trip airfare to Laughlin, Nevada, three nights lodging at the Riverside Resort and Casino on the banks of the Colorado River, and shuttle transportation to and from the airport. During this trip Vicki Lawrence from the Carol Burnett Show will perform as “Mama” at the Riverside Resort. Watch New Horizons and our website www.fontenelletours.com for our trip schedule. Our new address is: 2008 W. Broadway #329, Council Bluffs, Iowa 51501
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Pressure ulcers – commonly called bedsores -- are a big problem in the United States. More than 2.5 million Americans develop pressure ulcers every year, with about 60,000 people dying annually from pressure ulcer complications. High profile cases highlight how deadly pressure ulcers can be. Actor Christopher Reeves died from complications resulting from bedsores. “This is not just a problem for patients and their families, but also health facilities,” said Joyce Black, Ph.D., who as an associate professor in the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s College of Nursing is recognized as a national expert in pressure ulcers. “The government won’t reimburse for Medicare and Medicaid expenses if patients get pressure sores.” Pressure ulcers can develop in as little as three hours as a result of sitting or lying too long in the same position, she said. Those who are bedridden are most at risk, including those in hospitals and long-term care facilities like nursing homes. Pressure ulcers can happen in the home as well. “Ulcers develop quickly depending on how hard the surface is that you’re on and how much fat padding a person has. Thin, frail individuals develop them more quickly,” Dr. Black said. She said pressure ulcers develop due to pressure on the soft tissues when patients don’t move or continuously slide down in a chair. The blood in the area stops and the tissue dies. Most problems with ulcers occur on the buttocks, tailbone, and the heel of the foot. Early symptoms include pain and redness or purple color to the skin. “Getting pressure off that
part of the body is absolutely key,” Dr. Black said. “The sores result from lack of blood. Changing positions in bed and keeping the skin clean is the best way to prevent pressure ulcers.” Some pressure ulcers advance into large wounds that develop deep inside tissue. When the skin gets infected, a hole in the skin can develop and reach down to the bone. Surgeries to repair major wounds can cost up to $100,000. The estimated cost of pressure ulcers is $11.5 billion per year in the United States with the cost for each patient care ranging from $21,000 to $152,000. The Journal of the American Geriatric Society estimates an average 4 to 5 percent of patients develop pressure ulcers during a hospital stay and the number (23 percent) is higher in long-term care facilities. Dr. Black has these tips for preventing and treating minor pressure ulcers. • Sit or lie in different position, walk if you can. • Stay off the sore spot until the pain or color of red or purple color goes away. • Put a pillow under the calf of the leg to keep the heel off of the bed. • Don’t rub the skin. It
may tear. • Keep skin clean. The healthier you can keep skin the less chance of skin breakdown. • Make sure diapers get changed. • Turn individuals every three hours if they’re on a good mattress. Every two hours if the mattress is thin, frayed, or worn. • Cover the wound with dressing or apply topical antibiotic to keep the wound clean. • Ask what the facility is doing to reduce or prevent bed sores and if you can help. • Ask how they’re turning your loved one to get them off their back. The individual should be turned on their sides. Family members can help if necessary. • Ask what kind of mattress the patient is sleeping on. An old spring mattress with an inch thick padding isn’t adequate. The family may be well advised to go to a bedding store and get two inches of memory foam so there is more padding on the bed. • Make sure the patient is eating a well-balanced meal (not junk food). (UNMC’s Public Relations Department provided this information.)
Call 402-399-0777, ext. 230 to register
Diabetes Education Center of the Midlands offering a support group, variety of classes during January
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he Diabetes Education Center of the Midlands is offering two classes and a support group this month: • Saturday, Jan. 11: Living Well With Diabetes support group from 10 to 11:30 a.m. • Tuesday, Jan. 14: Insulin pump therapy &
January 2014
continuous glucose monitoring fair from 6 to 7:30 p.m. • Wednesday, Jan. 15: Diabetes prevention class from 1 to 3 p.m.
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he classes and support group will be held at the DECM office, 2910 S. 84th St. To register or for more information, please call the Diabetes Education Center of the Midlands at 402-399-0777, ext. 230.
Taking a few precautions can help reduce your chances of being injured this winter By Jen Vogt
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inter is a wonderful time of year, filled with holiday celebrations, get-togethers, and the start of a new year. However, in addition to making resolutions this time of year, we should also be taking safety precautions. Being aware of the following risks is the first step to making sure you and your loved ones are injury-free this winter:
yourself and other drivers, and allow for extra time to arrive at your destination. • The cold weather also increases your chances for frostbite and hypothermia. It is extremely important that you dress appropriately for the weather. Wear layers of clothing, a hat, and gloves. Keep an emergency kit in your car that includes a dry blanket in case of emergency. • Carbon monoxide poisoning tends to happen more often in January than any other month of the year. Make sure to check your fireplace, wood stove, and furnace at the start of each winter season. Have your fireplace flue cleaned on a regular basis. If possible, install a carbon-monoxide detector in your sleeping area. These detectors can save lives, but only one-third of all Americans use them. • A host of winter injuries can occur as a result of clearing snow, winter sports, or even just walking to check the mail. In slippery conditions, take shorter, slower steps. Listen to your body when spending time in the winter weather. Move inside if you become too cold or are short of breath. Push snow rather than scooping it, and wear safety equipment when engaging in winter sports. By understanding some of the risks associated with winter weather, you can take precautions to make sure this season is injury-free. Prevention is key to any safety plan, so think ahead and enjoy this time of year! (Vogt is with Midwest Geriatrics, Inc. in Omaha.)
• Home fires occur more often in the winter than any other months. This is due to the increased use of fireplaces, space heaters, and candles. Make sure these items are kept in good condition and a safe distance from people, pets, and flammable materials. However, cooking is the biggest cause of all residential fires in the winter. Attentive use of the stove or oven can be the best prevention for cookingrelated fires. • Driving in snowy or icy weather can also be a concern during the winter months. The best prevention for avoiding an injury while driving is to be prepared. Plan your routes in advance, allow extra space between
Please see the ad on page 3
New Horizons Club membership roll rises Information on community, human services available through the 211 telephone network The 211 telephone network has been established in parts of Nebraska to give consumers a single source for information about community and human services. By dialing 211, consumers can access information about: • Human needs resources like food banks, shelters, rent and utility assistance, etc. • Physical and mental health resources. • Employment support. • Support for older Americans and persons with a disability. • Support for children and families. • Volunteer opportunities and donations. The 211 network is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The information is also available online at www. ne211.org.
$25 Margaret Semin $10 Michael Klapp Deanna Povich Mary Harter Elizabeth Kleine $5 Joyce Horvath Betty Lou Thayer Joan Dugan List reflects donations received through December 20, 2013.
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Seniors Understanding Nature The Fontenelle Nature Association’s SUN (Seniors Understanding Nature) program offers activities for older adults the second Tuesday of each month at the Fontenelle Nature Center, 1111 Bellevue Blvd North. The programs, held from 9:45 to 11 a.m., feature an indoor program, an optional nature walk, and refreshments. The cost is $6 per person each month. For more information, please call Catherine Kuper at 402-731-3140, ext. 1019. Here are the upcoming programs: • Jan. 7 (special date): Ron Cisar performing “earth music.” • Feb. 11: Artist Andrew Peters. • March 11: Park ranger Blake Bell will share his insights on The Homestead Act & Immigration. • April 8: Retired meteorologist John Pollack on climate change. • May 20 (special date): Fontenelle Forest educator and geologist Debra Beck will discuss Nebraska geology. The schedule of programs will resume in September.
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Some tips for walking safely through winter ice and snow
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alls account for more than one million injuries in the U.S. annually. There are four predominant types of walking accidents with the most common being the slip and fall. That’s the type of fall that happens when you fall due to a surface that’s not cleared of snow or ice. “Every winter the hazards of driving in snow and icy conditions are noted, but rarely is walking on snow and ice addressed,” said Martin B. Tirado, executive director of the Snow & Ice Management Association (SIMA). “Slipping and falling while walking accounts for a large number of winter-related injuries and can have an impact on the quality of life for the injured person.” SIMA offers these tips for safe winter walking. • Wear proper footwear. Proper footwear should place the entire foot on the surface of the ground and have visible treads. Avoid a smooth sole and opt for a heavy treaded shoe with a flat bottom. • Accessorize to see and be seen. Wear sunglasses so you can see in the reflective light of the snow. Also, wear a bright coat or scarf so drivers can easily see you. • Plan ahead. While walking on snow or ice on sidewalks or in parking lots, walk consciously. Instead of looking down, look up and see where your feet will move next to anticipate ice or an uneven surface. Occasionally scan from left to right to ensure you’re not in the way of vehicles or other hazards. • Make sure you can hear. While seeing the environment is important, you also want to be sure you can hear approaching traffic and other noises. Avoid listening to music or engaging in conversation that may prevent you from hearing oncoming traffic or snow removal equipment. • Anticipate ice. Be weary of thin sheets of ice that may appear as wet pavement (black ice). Often ice will appear in the morning, in shady spots or where the sun shines during the day and melted snow refreezes at night. • Walk steps slowly. When walking down steps, be sure to grip handrails firmly and plant your feet securely on each step. • Enter a building carefully. When you get to your destination, be sure to look at the floor as you enter the building. The floor may be wet with melted snow and ice. • Be careful when you shift your weight. When stepping off a curb or getting into a car, be careful since shifting your weight may cause an imbalance and result in a fall. • Avoid taking shortcuts. Shortcuts are a good idea if you’re in a hurry, but may be a bad idea if there is snow and ice on the ground. A shortcut path may be treacherous because it is likely to be located where snow and ice removal is not possible. • Look up. Be careful about what you walk under. Injuries also can result from falling snow and ice as it blows, melts, or breaks away from awnings, buildings, etc.
Dora Bingel Senior Center You’re invited to visit the Dora Bingel Senior Center, 923 N. 38th St., this month for the following: • Jan. 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 29, & 31: Ceramics class @ 9 a.m. • Jan. 6, 13, 20, & 27: Al-Anon meeting @ 7 p.m. • Jan 7, 14, 21, & 28: Grief support group @ 10 a.m. • Jan. 8: Holy Communion. • Jan. 15: Musical entertainment by Pam and Ron from the Merrymakers @ 11:30. The cost for lunch is $3. • Jan. 24: Hard of hearing support group @ 10:30 a.m. • Jan. 29: Birthday party luncheon @ noon. Eat free if you have a January birthday. A nutritious lunch is served on Tuesday and Friday. A fancier lunch is offered on Wednesday. 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 a foot care clinic the third Wednesday of the month from 9 a.m. to noon. The cost is $10. 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. and Bingo @ 1 p.m. For more information, please call 402-898-5854.
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ENOA menu for January 2014 Wednesday, Jan. 1 CLOSED NEW YEAR’S DAY
Monday, Jan. 13 Turkey breast w/gravy
Wednesday, Jan. 22 Sausage with pepper and onions
Thursday, Jan. 2 Meatballs w/gravy
Tuesday, Jan. 14 Herbed pork loin w/gravy
Thursday, Jan. 23 Cranberry Dijon chicken patty
Wednesday, Jan. 15 Tacos
Friday, Jan. 24 Hamburger patty
Friday, Jan. 3 Cheesy lasagna rollup Monday, Jan. 6 Crunchy Pollock Tuesday, Jan. 7 Honey baked chicken patty Wednesday, Jan. 8 Roast beef w/gravy
Thursdays, Jan. 16 Beef Italiano Friday, Jan. 17 Ham and white beans
Thursday, Jan. 9 Western pork patty
Monday, Jan. 20 CLOSED MLK BIRTHDAY
Friday, Jan. 10 Beef w/mushroom gravy
Tuesday, Jan. 21 Meatballs in marina sauce
Monday, Jan. 27 BBQ rib patty Tuesday, Jan. 28 Chicken pot pie Wednesday, Jan. 29 Pepper beef patty Thursday, Jan. 30 Chili con carne Friday, Jan. 31 Apple glazed pork patty
Why most treatments only manage diabetes A variety of chronic system failures await nearly everyone with diabetes. Kidney dialysis, cataracts, high blood pressure, heart failure, and lower limb amputation are just a few. Any combination of diabetic complication is a virtual certainty. Far less certain, however, is how so many different systems could be affected by diabetes, which partly explains why most modern treatments only help manage the disease. Understanding the common thread between these wide-ranging diabetic complications lies at the foundation of potentially groundbreaking research at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. That research could do far more than help the 21 million Americans simply manage their diabetes. It could prevent those complications in the first place, and may even help repair damaged organs. UNMC’s Keshore Bidasee, who holds a doctorate in analytical chemistry, believes he has the culprit, and may have found a way to keep it from wreaking its usual havoc. In it’s essence, diabetes is a disease of the blood vessels. So, any organ that relies on blood supply – which is to say all of them – will suffer from the long and continuous assault that diabetes wages. There are three major
January 2014
types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes begins in the pancreas with the loss of beta cells, which normally release a blood-sugar regulating hormone called insulin. Most people, however, suffer from the most common form: Type 2 diabetes, where the pancreas still has the ability to produce insulin, but the body develops resistance to the hormone. A third, although rare, form of the disease may occur in about 5 percent of expecting mothers. Known as gestational diabetes, this form is often temporary and the mother recovers soon after childbirth. In all types of diabetes, the amount of sugar in the blood stream increases, and that somehow damages the blood vessels. It was previously unknown what causes that damage or if the cause was specific to each organ. Bidasee and his team think they found the answer in a small molecule called methylglyoxal, a naturally occurring byproduct of high blood-sugar that can cause a cell to “misbehave.” The misbehaving cells can set off a chain reaction that destroys the endothelium, the single layer of cells that line the inner walls of blood vessels that control blood flow and pressure. “What this means is high levels of methylglyoxal is a troublemaker,” said Bidasee, an associate pro-
fessor in UNMC’s Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Science in the College of Medicine. Completely eliminating the “troublemaker” would create additional problems. Methylglyoxal serves an important function beyond its destructive role in diabetes. It helps regulate sleep, and rids the body of other dysfunctional cells. “Remove them, and you’re going to be in trouble,” Bidasee said. With the help of the National Institutes of Health and the Gene Therapy Program at the University of Pennsylvania, Bidasee’s team created a harmless virus that “infects” methylglyoxal-producing cells with an enzyme called Glyoxalase-1. The enzyme eliminates the “troublemaker” where it causes problems, while leaving it free to perform its beneficial functions. Early testing shows the treatment not only stops damage in the kidneys, eyes, and heart, but also shows promise in halting cognitive decline—a major concern in elderly diabetics. The gene transfer strategy even significantly reduces blood sugar levels. “That was completely unexpected,” Bidasee said. “Sometimes you get lucky, right?” (UNMC’s Public Relations department provided this information.)
CEO: Good posture, good health go hand in hand
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o some extent, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but the things we consider beautiful usually share certain characteristics, with symmetry and vitality being chief among them, says Bill Schultz, CEO of AlignMed. “The human body is an excellent example,” says Schultz, a recent recipient of a special Congressional Recognition certificate for his contributions. “The people we view as physically attractive are usually healthy and symmetrical in appearance. That’s not a coincidence; postural symmetry and good health go hand in hand.” Good posture – holding the head, shoulders, and trunk in perfect alignment – creates balance, which allows our many physiological systems to function optimally, Schultz says. When we habitually sit, stand, or walk in a less than a fully aligned position, muscles stretch or contract to accommodate. This can result in chronic imbalances that can lead to pain. Studies dating back to the 19th Century also suggest our posture affects mood, energy, and self-confidence, all of which affect how attractive we appear to others. “You don’t see supermodels, A-list actors, or the rest of the ‘beautiful people’ slouched over as they strut down the runway or red carpet,” Schultz notes. “Think about the importance of posture among the most challenging sports. For track runners, ballerinas, and gymnasts, optimal posture is essential,” says Schultz, who explores four ways in which posture is part of the beauty-health connection. • It’s not just sitting for hours on end that’s bad for you; it’s how one sits. The dangers of sitting have garnered plenty of attention in recent years, especially since we have become a society of sitters. Sitting for long periods comes with many health risks, including obesity and cardiovascular disease. Sitting with less than perfect posture – most frequently, sitting with the head and should in a forward position over a desk -- can cause significant neck pain, which involves muscles and nerves from the neck down. Proper posture can prevent neck and spinal damage. • More than 116 million Americans, or a third of the population, suffer from chronic pain at some point in their lives. That’s according to a recent report from the Institute of Medicine. Chronic pain means a sufferer has anywhere from 30 to 60 days of lasting pain, and this massive problem is estimated to cost Americans $635 billion dollars. For many, treatment and/or prevention are out of reach, however, a reliable and easy way to prevent chronic pain is to maintain good posture. • A strong, well-functioning core is crucial for training and optimal health. The bulk of a body’s mass is located at and around one’s core, including the trunk and pelvis region. Today’s fitness fanatics firmly grasp the importance of a healthy core. Surprisingly, however, much of the health-conscious population today is musclecentric and does not fully appreciate the importance of posture, even though proper posture facilitates core strengthening, especially while exercising. • Using passive therapy to continuously improve posture. To feel and look your best, it’s important to maintain good posture throughout the day.
Fire Department can install smoke, carbon monoxide detectors 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.
Series of programs on Alzheimer’s offered three times during 2014
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ou’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 March 8 through April 12, 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: How Do We Talk With Our Kids? With Annie Dyer, administrator from the Prairie Meadows Alzheimer’s Special Care Center. • 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.
Retired fed employee groups meet monthly 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.
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UNMC study examining older adults’ ability to do multiple tasks at the same time
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s 2014 begins, many of us take stock of our older loved ones. Are they moving a little more slowly than before? Do they seem to hesitate more when asked a question? There’s the old joke about not being able to walk and chew gum at the same time. But there’s something to it, scientifically, said Dawn Venema, Ph.D., assistant professor of physical therapy education at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. As a clinician, she saw it all the time.
Now she studies it. When Dr. Venema was a physical therapist, she worked with older adults, and with some, she noticed, “People literally couldn’t walk and talk at the same time.” For those who were frail or had dementia, Dr. Venema said, “Their cognitive resources had to be focused on walking.” They could not afford any distraction from that basic task. Or they might fall. When Dr. Venema joined the faculty at UNMC it seemed like a natural line of
research. She collaborated with Joseph Siu, Ph.D., who was then at the UNMC College of Public Health and who is now her next-door neighbor in physical therapy. Dr. Siu also studied dual-task costs – how it affects us when we try to do two things at once. Like texting and driving? “It’s the same thing,” Dr. Venema said. “As much as we like to think we can multi-task, the quality of the task suffers as we try to do more than one thing at a time.” But even more so among
older adults who have dementia. “Their dual-task cost is really great because they don’t have as much cognitive resources to draw on,” Dr. Venema said. Drs. Venema and Siu did a study published in the Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy in which they found older adults doing a walking test were slowed when asked to simultaneously complete a cognitive (counting/math) task. The results were more dramatic among patients who started with lower cognitive scores. But, interestingly, all
were able to at least attempt to perform the task. No one completely shut down, mentally or physically. That led to a second pilot study using physical therapy combined with cognitive training among a small group of older men and women with dementia. Those individuals given “easy” cognitive tasks improved on about half of their outcomes, but those in the “hard” cognitive-task group improved on all outcomes, and by greater margins. So maybe there’s hope. “Perhaps we can challenge people with dementia more than we think,” Dr. Venema said. Researchers aim to expand to a full study, but they need more enrollees with dementia, whose families would need to give permission. Those spots are tougher to fill. For information about the study, call 402-559-6594. For further information on clinical trials, please call the Research Subject Advocate Office at 402-559-6941. (UNMC’s Public Relations department provided this information.) Millard Senior Center at Montclair
You’re invited to visit the Millard Senior Center at Montclair, 2304 S. 135th Ave., for the following: • Jan. 28: Music by the Papillion Senior Singers @ noon. 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). On Jan. 8 @ 9 a.m., we’ll resume making dresses for the little girls in Africa. That day, we’ll also make snowflakes as part of the 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. basket weaving classes. The class, which costs $5, is limited to five students. For meal reservations and more information, please call Susan at 402-546-1270.
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RSVP Retired and Senior Volunteer Program 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 volunteer opportunities in Douglas, Sarpy, and Cass counties: • The Disabled American Veterans/VA Medical Center needs volunteer drivers. • Good 360 is looking for respite volunteers to process donations and sort items. • The Douglas County Health Center wants volunteers for a variety of assignments. • Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands needs a volunteer to assist with general tasks. • Keep Omaha Beautiful/Helping Hands, Inc. wants volunteers for onetime yard cleaning projects. • Creighton University/ Student Support Services needs volunteers to provide support services and as math tutors. • Alegent Creighton Health Bergan Mercy Medical Center is looking for volunteers for its gift shop, flower shop, and other areas. The following has a volunteer opportunity in Dodge County: • The Fremont Car-Go Program needs volunteer drivers.
AARP needs vols AARP 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.
Corrigan Senior Center January 2014 events calendar You’re invited to visit the Corrigan Senior Center, 3819 X St. this month for: • Monday, Jan. 6: Welcome 2014 party with music by Tim Javorsky from the Merrymakers @ 11 a.m. Enjoy a fish or deli ham and cheese sandwich, and then stay for Bingo. • Monday, Jan. 13: Chalk Art with Corrigan’s Ivy Forrest @ 10:30 a.m. All supplies are provided, no experience is needed. Stay for lunch (turkey or deli tuna macaroni salad) and Bingo. • Thursday, Jan. 16: Chicken dinner and Mega Bingo. Lunch features a breaded chicken patty with chicken gravy, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans almondine, a lettuce salad, a wheat roll, and apple pie. Come early for raffles and stay after lunch to play Bingo. The reservation deadline is Friday, Jan. 10. • Thursday, Jan. 23: Wheel of Fortune @ 10:30 a.m. and chair volleyball vs. the LaVista Senior Center. Stay for lunch and Bingo. • Monday, Jan. 27: Birthday party with Karaoke music by Bob Lee @ 11 a.m. Lunch is chicken or a deli chef salad. Stick around after lunch for Bingo. The center is closed on Jan. 1 (New Year’s Day) and Jan. 20 (Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration). The Corrigan Senior Center is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lunch is served at noon. A $3 donation is normally suggested for the meal. Reservations are normally due by noon the business day prior to the meal you wish to enjoy. We offer chair volleyball Tuesday and Thursday @ 11 a.m., Tai Chi on Tuesday and Thursday @ 10 a.m., card games, Bingo, ceramics, exercise, woodcarving, and loads of fun! For meal reservations or more information, please call Lynnette at 402-731-7210.
Blair Area Community Foundation grant to help create meals program
ENOA’s Esther Gunderson (center) received a check for $2,852 from Mike Ferm and Mary Jean Rahlfs, president and secretary, respectively, of the Blair Area Community Foundation. Thanks in part to a $2,852 donation from the Blair Area Community Foundation, the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging is developing a new nutrition program in Blair. ENOA has operated a senior center in Blair – most recently at the YMCA – since 1977. The number of participants visiting the facility has declined over the years, so the agency is looking for new ways to provide meals for older men and women in the community, according to Susie Davern, director of ENOA’s Nutrition Services division. She said ENOA’s “Diner’s Choice” program will offer nutritionally balanced meals at a local grocery store or restaurant. Participants, who must be age 60 or older, will receive a swipe card they can use when selecting a meal from a menu designed by ENOA’s Nutrition Services division. In lieu of paying for the meal when it’s received, ENOA will send the older adult a monthly contribution statement. While she’s not certain when “Diner’s Choice” will begin, Davern said she believes the program is an innovative way to provide meals to older adults in Blair.
A Caring Community Called HOME! Independent & Assisted Living
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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.
49th & Q Street • 402-731-2118 www.southviewheightsomaha.com
January 2014
www.immanuellifeline.com
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Combs working to save lives by reducing health disparities
In north Omaha, Combs says pets have better access to health care than people. Ira’s dedicated to changing that reality. By Nick Schinker
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Contributing Writer
f you Google the word “clinics” in Omaha on the Internet, a map appears covered by colorful dots and markers that signify health clinics, counseling services, physical therapists, and doctors’ offices. But if you look more closely, the dots aren’t spread very evenly. Some neighborhoods have fewer dots than others. North Omaha doesn’t have many at all.
“There are more veterinary clinics in north Omaha than people clinics,” says Ira Combs, RN, community nurse liaison in the Center for Reducing Health Disparities at the University of Nebraska Medical Center’s (UNMC) College of Public Health. “Pets have better access to health care than people.” For many people, when we see something we consider to be wrong or an injustice to ourselves or others, we complain. Not Ira Combs. For him, another word comes immediately to mind: Change.
As one man, he can’t cure all the sickness and disease in north Omaha. But he can save lives. His medical specialty? Prevention. “Most hospitals originally were missions run by nuns and clergy,” says Combs, 62. “Today, a hospital is a business, and the bottom line of any business is to make money.” Combs is concerned by recent developments in the medical community, such as the news that Alegent Creighton Health System is moving its trauma center from 30th and California streets to Bergan Mercy Hospital at 78th Street and Mercy Road. “I’m a realist,” he says. “It’s my fear that medical services are moving to where the money is. So how do we take care of that? We use prevention and education to keep people healthy.” Combs’ efforts to educate the public in healthy habits have earned him recognition as a Public Health Prevention Champion of Change by the White House and President Obama. He was one of eight people cited this year for “helping communities focus on prevention...to move us towards a healthier America.” On Sept. 10, Combs was honored at a White House reception and participated in a panel discussion describing his work. In the ceremony and on the Champions of Change website, the White House noted Combs’ many prevention activities: “Mr. Combs’ work emphasizes inspiring young African-Americans to become involved in public health. He created a youth organization, Youth Expressions of Health, which includes an annual Youth Summer Internship Program in partnership with UNMC. It has helped more than 45 young people prepare for and start college with a focus on entering the field of health care. “Mr. Combs also coordinates health screenings and interventions for minority and underserved populations. He is the founding director of North Omaha Area Health Inc. (NOAH), an agency that addresses the needs of the underserved in Omaha.
“Working with a handful of dedicated community volunteers, he is helping to meet the needs of the community including producing health-oriented materials for kids and sponsoring and maintaining websites and social media networks that link the community with information about healthy living and health screenings.” Combs tries to shrug off the accolades. “I’m just doing my job,” he says. And he has much more work to do.
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ra Combs is one of four children born to the late Virgil Combs and his wife, Willietter (Ware) Combs, now 94. Originally a farmer in Missouri, Virgil Combs and his brothers moved to Omaha to work in the packinghouses. After attending Howard Kennedy Elementary School, Ira Combs went on to Horace Mann Junior High School and Central High School, where he graduated in 1969. He was a member of Boy Scouts’ Troop 23 and worked to become an Eagle Scout. “Our troop master put out seven black Eagle Scouts,” Combs says. It was a turbulent time for the city and the nation as people of all races demonstrated peacefully and sometimes violently in the effort to gain civil rights for African Americans. “We threw rocks at George Wallace’s motorcade in 1968 when he spoke at the (Omaha) Civic Auditorium,” Combs says. “And I remember people throwing rocks at us. “I lived at 32nd and Miami streets, and I remember going with my friends to 32nd and Ohio (streets) sitting on the hill looking down at 24th and Lake (streets) and seeing the fires burning during the riots.” Combs says it was difficult to understand why violence had come to his peaceful neighborhood. “Part of me was really rebellious and resentful,” he says. “But part of me thinks the community did really well on its own. --Please turn to page 11.
Monthly Educational Seminars This Month’s Topic: Palliative & Hospice Care
Your friends at Hickory Villa invite you to attend an educational seminar followed by light refreshments on Thursday, January 16th, 2014 at 6:30 p.m. Please help us welcome Daniel Conaway from Hillcrest Hospice as he offers important information about Palliative and Hospice Care. Hickory Villa • Assisted Living 7315 Hickory St. Omaha, NE 68124
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(402) 392-0767 • www.BethesdaSeniorLiving.com Page 10
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Ira’s health care marketing plan includes clinics, puppet shows --Continued from page 10. “When I was a kid, we had four black doctors in the community. Dr. Johnson even made house calls. We had the Ritz Theater and we had grocery stores and our own churches. Because of segregation, we had our own places. During the time of integration, that’s when we started having problems.” Combs says that when it comes to securing better health care, the black community needs to rekindle a bit of the independent spirit that fueled the civil rights movement. “We need to make some changes,” he says. “We need to change the way our community thinks. We need to be able to look at our street corners and see stores that don’t just sell liquor and cupcakes and cigarettes. “We have to get that feeling back again, that we are masters of our own destiny, and not sit back and wait for someone to do it for us,” he says.
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ducation has been a lifelong experience for Combs. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Grace College of the Bible in 1974 and a Child Development Associate certification from Iowa Western Community College. “After that, I opened a children’s home,” he says. “That’s where I met my wife.” He and Victoria have been married 34 years. They have two daughters, Antoi-
Assistive technology is available via at4all.com Older adults may notice gradual changes in their hearing, memory, vision, and mobility that could create the need for assistive technology. Some of these older men and women may need a cane, a scooter, a listening device, or a lighted magnifier. One way to learn more about obtaining assistive technology equipment is by logging on to at4all.com, a free online service that lists and can help you find these devices in Nebraska. The service can help consumers borrow and try the equipment before buying, buy used and/or free equipment, and list items they want to share or sell. For more information, please call 1-888-806-6287.
nette and Jimeta, and a son, Caleb. Ten years after opening the children’s home, Combs went back to school. He received an EMT-Paramedic certificate from Creighton University and went to work for an ambulance service. He continued to explore his options as a health care provider, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in health care management from Trinity University and an Associate Degree in Nursing (AND) from Metropolitan Community College in 1991. Combs received advance nurses training in the intensive care unit at St. Joseph Hospital, where he also received his peritoneal dialysis nurse certification in 1993. He is Basic Life Support (BLS) certified, as well as certified in chemotherapy administration/oncology nursing and Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), and was an ACLS instructor from 1992 to 1995. Two days each week, Combs assumes the title of Health Promotion Coordinator and hosts a wellness and medical screening clinic at the Lighthouse Wellness & Community Center, operated at 5404 Ames Ave. by Lighthouse founders and directors Haskell and Shirley Lee. In the year that he has been at the Lighthouse, Combs has screened 280 people for everything from high blood pressure and diabetes to prostate cancer, sexually transmitted diseases, and HIV. “We are trying to do
Ira in the exercise room at the Lighthouse Wellness & Community Center, 5404 Ames Ave. where Combs works two days each week. these screenings in a comprehensive way and document everything we do, especially when it comes to prevention, “ he says, “because if you do it right, you never know about it.” As founder and volunteer director of the all-volunteer health organization, Omahealth, Inc., which also offers free health screenings and education programs, his responsibilities include coordinating operations; editing the NOAH newsletter; designing the web page; and
producing a monthly cable health program, Dr. Jesse & the Prevention Gang based on one of his puppet characters. Besides Dr. Jesse, Combs’ puppets include Dr. Healthy (a woman doctor) and Mr. Jones, who never does anything right. He also has created a variety of African-American superheroes such as Prevention Man, Medical Dude, and Vernon the Vegetarian Veggie Bird, and has produced comic books and coloring
books with the characters to make it fun to learn about health. “To get people to listen, you have to have a marketing plan,” he says. “You have to be able to get people’s attention. There is nothing more boring than standing in front of a room full of people and reading a list of numbers and statistics. But everybody listens to puppets.” The puppets are especially helpful teaching children. --Please turn to page 12.
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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Combs’ war against disease fought in the mind, body --Continued from page 11. “The best time to talk to a person about their health is when they are young,” Combs says. “Habits are easier to make than to break.” He tells children about the dangers of obesity and the advantages of eating lots of fresh fruit and vegetables – and is an example of practicing what he preaches. “I’ve lost 30 pounds in eight months, all through diet, a better regimen, and cardio-training to burn off the calories,” he says. ”It isn’t just to look better. This time, the nurse is trying to save his own life. Ira Combs has kidney disease and has been on dialysis for two years. “There are five stages of renal disease and I am stage four,” he says. “My kidneys still function, but I need a transplant.” In order to get on the transplant list, he must lose weight and prove to be a viable candidate. As an oncology nurse, Combs saw how devastating it can be to combine disease and desperation. The battlefield isn’t just in the body but also the mind. “I have a lot of friends I have met who are on dialysis, and it does get depressing,” he says. “To sit in that dialysis chair three times a week, three or four hours at a time, that’s probably the most torture for me.” His work helps by providing purpose, he says. “I try to prepare everyone to be part of the solution,” he says. “I tell the kids I teach that I may not always be around but it’s a joy to me know-
NOAH needs donations Donations to fund educational programs, provide flu shots, and purchase other medical supplies may be sent to North Omaha Area Health (NOAH) at the Lighthouse Wellness & Community Center, 5404 Ames Avenue, Omaha, Neb., 68104. For more information, email Ira Combs at icombs@unmc.edu.
In his personal battle against kidney disease, Ira has lost 30 pounds in eight months. ing they will be able to pick up where I left off. “When I teach a young person how to take someone’s blood pressure, I tell them to go out and not only use that skill but also teach it to someone else. It’s like Scouts. I learned a lot of leadership skills teaching others to help others.” It also goes back to working on his grandfather’s farm in Missouri. “As a family, we’d go down and help out,” he
says, “because he couldn’t do it alone. And if there was a storm coming, the neighbors would all come over and help, too. “We need to do a better job of spreading that idea,” he says, “that we are all neighbors and friends.” Good advice. Good health. Ira Combs is doing his part to make certain the Omaha community gets plenty of both.
Elder Access Line Legal 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 1-800-527-7249 statewide. This service is available to Nebraskans age 60 and older regardless of income, race, or ethnicity.
Since 1976
Expires 1/15/14
FREMONT 2415 E. 23rd Ave South (East Hwy 30 next to Earl May) (402) 727-7866 • 1-800-239-7866
OMAHA 12100 W. Center Rd.
(NW Corner of 120th & Center)
Belair Plaza (402) 571-1207
Diabetic foot care, health care screenings offered for Cass, Sarpy county residents
• LIFE ALTERING IMPROVED QUALITY OF LIFE • AS CLOSE TO NORMAL AS YOU CAN GET • NO FEEDBACK NOISE • CAN HEAR IN NOISY ROOMS
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The Sarpy/Cass Department of Health & Wellness is offering low-cost diabetic foot care and basic healthcare screenings for residents of Sarpy and Cass counties. For $5, individuals can receive a blood pressure check, weight screening, diabetic foot care, toenail trimming, and health information form a registered nurse. Here’s the clinic schedule: • Bellevue Senior Center: Fourth Thursday, 1 to 3 p.m. • Eagle Senior Center: Second Tuesday, 10 a.m. to noon. • Louisville Senior Center: First Wednesday, 10 a.m. to noon. • Papillion Senior Center: Third Wednesday, 10 a.m. to noon. • Plattsmouth Community Center: Third Monday, 9 to 11 a.m. • The Sarpy/Cass Department of Health & Wellness: Third Friday, 8 to 10 a.m. To make an appointment, please call Nicole Evans at 402-339-4334, ext. 209.
Type 2 diabetics with low levels of activity have a 70 percent greater risk of cardiovascular disease death The risk of cardiovascular complications in people with type 2 diabetes is directly related to the frequency and duration of physical exercise, according to results of a large follow-up study reported recently. Notably, those with low levels of physical activity had a 70 percent greater risk of cardiovascular death than those with higher levels of exercise. Studies have shown those diagnosed with type 2 diabetes are up to five times more likely to develop heart disease or stroke than healthy subjects in the general population. The risks for developing the disease have been clearly identified: age, family history, and obesity. This is why the firstline treatments for type 2 diabetes are a healthy diet, weight loss, and regular exercise. Studies have also consistently shown that physical activity is directly related to the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality rates in all population groups. For example, a 2007 study from the National Institutes of Health in the United States found that recommendations for moderate activity (at least 30 minutes on most days of the week) or vigorous exercise (at least 20 minutes three times per week) was associated with a 27 percent and a 32 percent overall decreased mortality risk, respectively. A new follow-up study from a large Swedish cohort of subjects specifically with type 2 diabetes similarly shows those men and women who engage in low levels of physical activity are at a “considerably” greater risk of cardiovascular disease and death than those who exercise at higher levels. The study was reported in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology. Low-level activity was defined in the study as never or once or twice a week exercise for 30 minutes, while highlevel activity was defined as three or more times a week. Results showed those in the low level activity group had a 25 percent greater risk of coronary and cardiovascular events than those in the higher activity group, and a 70 percent greater risk of a fatal cardiovascular event. The results were calculated as statistically significant, and were maintained when controlled for age, gender, diabetes duration, type of hypoglycemic treatment, and smoking. The study also indicated stepping up the duration and frequency of exercise following a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes will lower the risk of cardiovascular complications and death while remaining inactive will maximize the risk. “Regular physical activity is an important part of the diabetes management plan and these findings underline the importance of implementing regular physical activity as part of lifestyle measures,” the investigators say. Commenting on the results, the study’s first author Dr. Bjorn Zethelius from the University of Uppsala in Sweden said: “The message from this study is clear. Avoid a sedentary lifestyle. Engage in physical activity. Alongside diet, these are the cornerstones of type 2 diabetes treatment. If you are presently on a low level of physical activity, do more.” Dr. Zethelius added that increased physical activity among those with type 2 diabetes has important public health implications, simply because of the increasing prevalence of the disease. Law Offices of Charles E. Dorwart
UNMC’s ice skating rink open through Jan. 11
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he University of Nebraska Medical Center’s outdoor public skating rink will be open through Jan. 11. The rink is located just east of 42nd Street midway between Emile Street and Dewey Avenue on the north side of the Michael F. Sorrell Center for Health Science Education building. The rink features concessions, music, and seasonal decorations. Hours of operation are: • Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.; and 4 to 8 p.m. • Friday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.; and 4 to 10 p.m. • Saturday, noon to 10 p.m. • Sunday, noon to 8 p.m. The rink will be open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Admission and skate rental is free with identification for employees of UNMC, their family, and significant others who accompany them, UNMC Physicians and The Nebraska Medical Center, as well as Clarkson College students, and Ronald McDonald House guests. Cost for the public is $7 including skates. Cash or credit card only (no checks or debit cards will be accepted). Free parking is available in lots along 40th Street between Dewey Avenue & Emile Street and in the lot along 41st Street between Emile & Leavenworth streets. Parking maps and more information are available at www.unmc.edu/skate.
We need your
! t r o p sup
I would like to become a partner with the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging, and help fulfill your mission with older adults.
ENOA
$30 = 7 meals or 1.75 hours of in-home homemaker services or 1 bath aide service for frail older adults. $75 = 17 meals or 4.75 hours of in-home homemaker services or 4 bath aide services for frail older adults. $150 = 35 meals or 9.5 hours of in-home homemaker services or 8 bath aide services for frail older adults. $300 = 70 meals or 19.25 hours of in-home homemaker services or 16 bath aide services for frail older adults. Other amount (please designate)__________________________ Please contact me. I would like to learn more about how to include the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging in my estate planning.
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
Traditional funding sources are making it more difficult for ENOA to fulfill its mission. Partnership opportunities are available to businesses and individuals wanting to help us. These opportunities include volunteering, memorials, honorariums, gift annuities, and other contributions.
Please ma il with thisyofour donation rm to: Eas
tern Office oNebraska n Aging Address:___________________________________ Attention : Jef Name:_____________________________________
City:______________State:_____ Zip: __________ Phone:____________________________________
January 2014
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f Reinha 4223 C rdt Omaha, enter Street NE 6810 5-2431 (402
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Joslyn dancers entertain the Foster Grandparents
AARP offering driving course during January AARP is also 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. • 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:
Teacher Ken Pfeiffer with the participants in Joslyn Elementary School’s Dancing Classrooms program.
Saturday, January 11 Noon to 4 p.m. AARP Information Center 1941 S. 42nd Street Call 402-398-9568 to register
ElderCare Resource Handbook Copies of the 2012 to 2014 ElderCare Resource Handbook are available online or as a hard copy from Care Consultants for the Aging. The 10th edition of the publication provides information about programs and services for older adults in eastern Nebraska. Divided into five sections, the ElderCare Resource Handbook lists options for medical support, home health care and support services, living options, senior services, and government, financial, and legal services. The handbook is available three ways: • For $7 at the Care Consultants for the Aging office, 7701 Pacific St., Suite 100. • By sending your name, address, and a check or money order for $10 to Care Consultants for the Aging, 7701 Pacific St., Suite 100, Omaha, Neb. 68114. The book will be mailed to you. You can also order the handbook using your credit card, by calling 402-398-1848. • By logging on the Internet to www.careconsultants. com. Click on the Resource Handbook tab.
The troupe of young dancers moved gracefully across the linoleum floor as the audience members smiled and applauded during a recent performance at St. Paul Methodist Church, 5410 Corby St. The dancers – fifth graders from Joslyn Elementary School, 11220 Blondo St., – are members of the Dancing Classrooms program. Developed by professional dancer Pierre Dulaine, Dancing Classrooms is an international program that teaches ballroom dancing to young students worldwide, including youngsters at 25 Omaha-area schools. “If we can instill civility into children at the age of 10 or 11, we can nurture it and have it grow with them,” Dulaine said during a 2012 interview published in The Reader magazine. “It will only make them better human beings,” he added. Locally, Dancing Classrooms is a project of ARTery, an organization that’s proud
Firestone donates $500 to ENOA’s meals program
Need help qualifying for Medicaid?
Each time Firestone Complete Auto Care opens a new store in the United States, the company makes a donation to the Meals on Wheels Program in that area. ENOA Executive Director Dennis Loose (far right) and members of ENOA’s Meals on Wheels staff (from left): Arlis Smidt, Cindy Halverson, and Tara Thomas are seen here with a $500 check from Firestone, which recently opened a store at 11751 S. 73rd St. in Papillion.
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New Horizons
Omaha was the first American city after New York City to have the program, according to The Reader article. The audience members at the December dance performance are participants in ENOA’s Foster Grandparent Program. The Corporation for National Service administers the FGP nationally. Foster Grandparents work with children who need special attention in a variety of settings including schools, Head Start programs, pre-elementary school child care programs, facilities that focus on mental health issues, substance abuse programs, domestic violence shelters, and hospitals. The Dancing Classrooms’ appearance was part of a recent in-service meeting for the Foster Grandparents who also had lunch with the students from Joslyn Elementary. For more information on the FGP, please call 402-444-6536.
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January 2014
Tips for keeping your kitchen clean
From rushed morning breakfasts to hurried dinners, the kitchen is often the busiest room in the home. But with all of this activity comes a world of messes. Cleaning up spills and splatters can be a job in itself, especially when grandkids are involved. From installing kitchen features that make it easier for grandkids to help clean up, to easy ways to keep pans bright, these tips offer simple solutions for a range of kitchen mishaps and messes. • Line the refrigerator: Hardened mustard or sticky soda spills can be hard to remove from inside the refrigerator. For quick clean up, line the drawers with plastic placemats. When a mess happens, just pull out the mat; scrub it off and place it back in. As a bonus, these mats often come in fun colors or patterns to help jazz up kitchen décor. • Let the kids help clean: Many kitchen and bath manufacturers offer faucets with flexible, pull down spouts for grandkids to help clean and rinse dishes after dinner. Just be sure to invest in a sturdy step stool to keep your little helpers safe while they’re at work. • Clean with baking soda: Backsplashes and tile flooring can be cleaned in a breeze with a simple solution made from things you may already own. Just mix a half-cup
of baking soda into a two gallon bucket of water and scrub those splatters away. • Brighten brass and copper: To clean up tarnish on pots and pans made with brass or copper, use a small amount of ketchup on a soft cloth and rub. Once the tarnish is gone, rinse with warm water and towel dry.
Cleaning up spills and splatters can be a job in itself, especially when grandkids are involved.
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• Remove countertop stains: Grandkids love their juice with breakfast just like adults love coffee, but little spills happen. To remove such stains, simply add a little hydrogen peroxide to water and a few small drops of ammonia and scrub with a soft cloth. With a few simple tools you’ll be able to keep your kitchen squeaky clean so it can continue to be the favorite hangout for the entire family. (Family Features provided this information.)
Call 402-345-0606 for ticket information
Relive a legendary night in rock and roll history as ‘Millon Dollar Quartet’ comes to the Orpheum Eight performances of Million Dollar Quartet are scheduled to be held Feb. 18 through 23 at Omaha’s Orpheum Theater, 409 S. 16th St. Million Dollar Quartet documents a historic musical recording session that took place in Memphis on Dec. 4, 1956. Four of the era’s greatest artists: Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins came together for a legendary jam session that day at Sun Records. Written by Floyd Mutrux and Colin Escott, Million Dollar Quartet features numerous rock and rock favorites including Great Balls of Fire, Walk the Line, Fever, and Blue Suede Shows.
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Ask A Lawyer: Q — In addition to avoiding probate, what are some benefits of a trust? Photo by Jeremy Daniel
Audience members will get to be a “fly on the wall” as they watch these artists perform. They’ll also get an insight in to what was going on in the entertainers’ lives at the peak of their musical careers. Show times for Million Dollar Quartet are 7:30 p.m. Feb. 18, 19, and 20; 8 p.m. on Feb. 21; 2 and 8 p.m. on Feb 22, and Feb. 23 at 1:30 and 7 p.m. Tickets start at $30. For tickets and more information, please call 402-345-0606.
January 2014
A — Gifts to minors can be held in the trust until they are ready to inherit, without court supervision. A trust provides you with more privacy than a will, and is difficult to challenge. A trust can prevent unintentionally disinheriting a child, which can happen in a blended family, even with a will. You can make provision for beneficiaries with special needs, or choose for professional management of your trust if you become disabled. The benefits of a trust are for everyone, not just for “rich people.” 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
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Vols are being recruited for AARP’s Tax-Aide program
Volunteer opportunities
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AAA offers winter driving tips See and be seen are simple rules to remember for winter driving. So that others may see you, completely clear your vehicle of snow and ice. This includes brushing the snow and ice away from two of your most important communication tools – your turn signals and brake lights. Always use your headlights, even during the daylight hours. All windows and outside mirrors should be clear of ice and snow. Before heading out on the roadway, safely store all heavy or hard objects in your trunk. During a crash, any unsecured items in your vehicle could become deadly projectiles. It’s always important, especially during dangerous and hazardous weather conditions, to wear a safety belt and make certain all passengers are buckled-up, as well. Adjusting your speed to the prevailing road conditions is extremely important. Skids often occur when motorists drive too fast for the road conditions or brake too hard. Firm, steady pressure on the brake should be used. Always increase your following distance, even when you are stopped in traffic. If your vehicle is rear ended, having a safe margin of space in front of your vehicle may help to prevent a second collision. When a crash occurs, your driver air bag may deploy. For that reason, keep your hands properly positioned on the steering wheel to prevent hand injuries. Your vehicle’s owner manual provides instructions on hand positioning. If you have young, inexperienced teen drivers in your family, restrict their driving privileges until you have had the opportunity to teach them safe winter driving skills in an empty parking lot. (AAA Nebraska provided this information.)
he Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging’s Foster Grandparent The AARP Foundation’s tax preparers who work Program, Senior Companion Tax-Aide program is the directly with taxpayers to Program, Ombudsman Advocate nation’s largest free, volun- complete individual tax reProgram, and Senior Medicare teer-run tax preparation and turns. Prior tax or accountPatrol Program are recruiting older adults to assistance service. The pro- ing experience is preferred gram provides free income but not required. Volunteers become volunteers. Foster Grandparents and Senior Compantax services, focusing on receive instruction in tax ions must be age 55 or older, meet income low to middle income taxlaws, completion of tax guidelines, have a government issued idenpayers age 60 and older who forms, and the computer tification card or a driver’s license, able to need help preparing their software required to file a volunteer at least 15 hours a week, and must tax return. No one, however, return. complete several background and reference is turned away because of Greeters who welcome checks. income or age. taxpayers, help organize Foster Grandparents and Senior ComThe Tax-Aide program their paperwork, and manpanions receive a $2.65 an hour stipend, in Nebraska has 23 sites, age the overall flow of transportation and meal reimbursement, including seven in Douglas services are also needed. paid vacation, sick, and holiday leave, and County and two in Sarpy To volunteer with the supplemental accident insurance. County. AARP Foundation’s TaxFoster Grandparents work with children AARP’s local Tax Aide Aide program, go to aarp. who have special needs while Senior Comprogram needs more volun- org/taxaide. E-Mail quespanions work to keep older adults living teers. AARP membership is tions to our local address: not required. omaha.taxaide@gmail.com. independently. Ombudsman advocates work to ensure The greatest need is for or call 402.398.9568. residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities enjoy the best possible quality Poetry contest submissions due March 5 of life. Ombudsman advocates, who must be age Submissions for the 2014 Poetry Across the Genera18 or older, are enrolled through an applications competition – sponsored jointly by the University of tion and screening process. These volunNebraska at Omaha, the Omaha Public Library, and the teers, who are not compensated monetarily Omaha Public Schools, are due by Wednesday, March 5. for their time, must serve at least two hours The annual event features separate contests for poets in a week. grades 7 through 12 and poets age 50 and older. ParticiThe Senior Medicare Patrol program pants are asked to write two poems each: one about life as a helps Medicaid beneficiaries avoid, detect, teenager and another about life as a person age 60 or older and prevent health care fraud. These volunPrizes of $100, $50, and $25 for first, second, and third places, respectively will be awarded. Seven honorable men- teers, who are enrolled through an application and screening process, are not compention finishers will receive $10 each. sated monetarily for their time, Winning poets can For more information, please call 402collect their cash priz444-6536. es at a Sunday, March 23 poet recognition reception at UNO’s Farm Credit Services donates $1,000 to SeniorHelp Program Milo Bail Student Center from 1 to 3:30 p.m. The event will include poetry readings, refreshments, and intergenerational poetry dialogue. All contest entrants are also invited to an Intergenerational Poetry Slam at UNO’s Milo Bail Student Center on Sunday, March 30 from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Adult poetry submission may be sent to Cindy Waldo, Sigma Phi Omega, Department of Gerontology, CB 211, University of Nebraska at Omaha, 6001 Dodge St, Omaha, Neb. 68182-0202 or online to www.omahapoetsplace.net. Teen poets may submit their poetry to Omaha Public Volunteers from the Red Oak/Harlan, Iowa office of Farm Credit Services of Library, Bess Johnson Elkhorn Branch, Attn: Karen Berry, America painted the homes of four SeniorHelp clients recently. 2100 Reading Plz., Elkhorn, Neb. 68022 or online to www. omahapoetsplace.net. he Red Oak/Harlan, and ENOA appreciate the Farm Credit Services of For more information, contact Cindy Waldo at cwaldo@ Iowa office of Farm efforts of the volunteers America is owned by its unomaha.edu. Credit Services of who participated in the Sept. more than 50,000 stockAmerica recently made 12 painting project and are holders/customers and is a $1,000 donation to the grateful for the donation. governed by a 17-member Eastern Nebraska Office on She said the $1,000 would board of directors. Aging and its SeniorHelp be used to purchase supplies Through ENOA’s SeLifestyle • Community • Convenience • Family Values Program. needed for other SeniorHelp niorHelp Program, volunIn addition to the monprojects. teers of all ages provide a Amenities include: etary gift, several volunteers Based in Omaha, Farm variety of services for older Playground Get 6 months of FREE lot from Farm Credit Services Credit Services of America adults that help promote inOff street parking rent for moving a single of America painted the is dedicated to serving the dependence and dignity and Clubhouse • Pool wide home into the park, or interior and exterior of the agricultural credit, risk allow them to remain living RV’s welcome $3,500 moving expenses. homes of four SeniorHelp management, and finanin their own homes for as Call for more information. clients, according to Karen cial needs of farmers and long as possible. Call: Kelly, who coordinates Seranchers in Nebraska, Iowa, For more information on 12801 Spaulding Plaza niorHelp for ENOA. South Dakota, and WyoSeniorHelp, please call 402www.maplewoodestatesonline.com Omaha, NE 68164 Kelly said SeniorHelp ming. 444-6536.
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Maplewood Estates
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402.493.6000
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January 2014
Princeton study examines the differences on older adults’ BBB warns consumers about fraudulent health caused by the death of adult male, female children websites with ‘overstock’ in the name
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others – but not fathers – exhibited symptoms of depression and experienced declines in overall health after the death of an adult son, while the death of a daughter had no such effect on either parent, according to one of the first studies to examine the impacts of the death of an adult child on parents age 65 and older. In East Asian cultures, an adult son’s role in the family is crucial to the wellbeing and financial stability of his parents, the researchers suggest. Therefore, a traumatic event, like the death of a son, could place quite a strain on older parents living in these cultures – particularly women, especially if the deceased son is the oldest or only son. The researchers, from the Office of Population Research in Princeton University’s Woodrow Wilson School (WWS), published their findings in the journal Social Science & Medicine based on data from the Taiwanese Longitudinal Study of Aging, a nationally representative survey designed to assess the health of older people in Taiwan. “In East Asian cultures like Taiwan, sons hold the primary responsibility for providing financial and instrumental assistance to their elderly parents,” said lead author Chioun Lee, a Princeton postdoctoral research associate. “Older women who have had particularly few educational and occupational opportunities are more likely to rely on their sons for support. Therefore, a traumatic event, like a son’s death, could place quite a strain on a mother’s health.” Along with study coauthor Noreen Goldman, HughesRogers Professor of Demography and Public Affairs at
WWS, and researchers from Georgetown University, Lee used data collected for the Taiwanese Longitudinal Study of Aging from 1996 to 2007, which included approximately 4,200 participants. To evaluate parental wellbeing, they used two self-reported measures: one for overall health and another for depressive symptoms. Each respondent’s health was assessed based on the following question: “Regarding your current state of health, do you feel it is excellent, good, average, not so good, or poor?” The items were coded on a oneto-five-point scale with higher scores indicating better health. Past studies have indicated this measure is a strong predictor of mortality. Depressive symptoms were measured with an eight-item subset of the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale, which asks participants to report how often they’ve experienced various situations or feelings in the past week. Possible answers range from “0,” which means rarely or none of the time, to “3,” which is most or all of the time. Higher scores for the eight items indicate more frequent depressive symptoms.
In the past year, the Better Business Bureau has shut down more than 100 fraudulent websites that illegally steal the famous BBB logo and imply they are legitimate sites. A noticeable trend recently is websites that include the word “overstock” in the domain name, hoping to fool consumers into thinking they are shopping with Overstock.com. “Overstock.com is a highly visible online retailer, so it’s no wonder scammers try to mimic them,” noted Carrie A. Hurt, president and CEO of the Council of Better Business Bureaus, the umbrella organization for 113 BBBs across the United States and Canada.
Use a credit card (not a debit card) when shopping online for greater protections against possible fraud.
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he researchers controlled for parental wellbeing prior to the death of a child and analyzed the data in two stages. First, they tested the extent to which a child’s death affected a parent’s health and then whether that varied by the parent’s sex. Finally, they determined the influence of a deceased child’s sex on parental wellbeing. They found women who lost a son scored, on average, 2.4 points higher on levels of depressive symptoms than those who did not lose a child. For men, there were no significant differences. There was no evidence to suggest that either mothers or fathers were significantly affected by depressive symptoms or declines in reports of overall health following the death of a daughter. Lee explains that while finances are a concern, there may be other factors at play. “I also think that various attributes of deceased children, such as birth order, affective bonds with their parents, or cause of death, might influence parental wellbeing,” said Lee, who is a native of Korea and observed son preference and gender inequality throughout her childhood. According to Goldman, these findings underscore the continued gender inequality in Taiwan. “Despite large advances in women’s labor market participation and educational attainment in recent years – for example, women in Taiwan are now more likely than men to hold a higher education degree – son preference persists, affecting various aspects of women’s wellbeing,” Goldman said.
“We’ve seen this with other major retailers as well. The BBB is warning consumers to be careful to look for the real domain when it comes to major retail sites.” “Our web address is simple: overstock.com,” said Jonathan Johnson, executive vice chairman of Overstock.com, Inc. “That’s all. If the name is longer, or uses any additional words, or letters, (or) if it has any words other than ‘overstock’ before the dot com, it’s not our website.” The BBB suggests the following tips for online shoppers to avoid bogus websites: • Go to bbb.org to look up the BBB Business Reviews of your favorite online retailers. • Type the URL directly into your browser. Do not click on a link from an email or social media site unless you are absolutely sure the message is from the legitimate business. • On the payment page, look for “https” at the beginning of the address. • Look for “Contact Us” information, including a real address, a toll-free customer service number, and other ways to reach the company if you have a problem. • Use a credit card (not a debit card) when shopping online for greater protections against possible fraud. • If a website has a BBB Accredited Business seal, click on it. A real seal should link directly to that company’s BBB Business Review. If you would like additional information, please contact Jim Hegarty, the BBB’s president and CEO in eastern Nebraska at 402-968-7030.
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New Horizons
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Bellevue Senior Community Center January 2014 events calendar You’re invited to the Bellevue Senior Community Center, 109 W. 22nd Ave. for: • Jan. 6: Cardiac rehab talk @ 11 a.m. • Jan. 8: Hand & Foot Class @ 9:15 a.m. • Jan. 9: Bingo Bucks @ 10:30 a.m. • Jan. 9: Jean from Hearts United for Animals will visit at 11:15 a.m. • Jan: 9: Wii bowling and a 6 p.m. meal featuring meat loaf with gravy. • Jan. 10: Book club at 10 a.m. • Jan. 13: Speaker on fitness @ 11 a.m. • Jan. 16: Meet some dogs from the Little White Dog Rescue at 12:30 p.m. • Jan. 16: Play Pokeno and enjoy a meal @ 6 p.m. featuring fried chicken. • Jan. 21: Advisory Forum @ 11 a.m. • Jan. 23: Pokeno Bucks @ 10:30 a.m. • Jan. 23: Foot clinic from 1 to 3 p.m. Call 402-339-4334 ext. 209 for an appointment. • Jan. 23: Chair volleyball and a meal @ 6 p.m. featuring a lasagna rollup. • Jan. 30: Have breakfast for dinner @ 6 p.m. The meal will feature a sausage patty, biscuits and gravy. The facility will be closed Jan. 1 (New Year’s Day) and 20 (Martin Lither King). The Bellevue Senior Community Center is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday. A $3 donation is suggested for lunch and $4 donation for the evening meal for anyone age 60 and older and $7 for those under age 60. Reservations are due by noon the business day prior to the meal you wish to enjoy. We offer chair volleyball on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 10:30 a.m. as well as Tai Chi and Yoga Tuesday and Friday at 1 p.m. For meal reservations or more information call Regan or Brenda at 402-293-3041.
Heartland Family Service January 2014 events calendar
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ou’re invited to visit the Heartland Family Service Senior Center, 2101 S. 42nd St. for the following: • Friday, Jan. 3: Birthday party with music by Joe Taylor from the Merrymakers @ 10:15 a.m. • Monday, Jan. 6: Reminisce with LaToya. • Thursday, Jan. 9: Presentation on healthy finances. • Monday, Jan. 13: Talk by Lou Ann Patterson on the importance of friendships @ 10:30 a.m. • Tuesday, Jan. 21: Red Hat Society meets at Dinker’s, 2368 S. 29th St., @ 11:30 a.m. Bring a white elephant gift. • Thursday, Jan. 23: Trip to the IMAX Theater @ 10:15 a.m. Call Karen @ 402552-7480 for pricing information. • Thursday, Jan. 30: LiveWell presentation @ 10:30 a.m. • Friday, Jan. 31: Luau. Bring a snack to share. Hawaiian clothing is optional. The center will be closed Jan. 1 and Jan. 20. The Heartland Family Service Senior Center is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lunch is normally served at noon. A $3 donation is suggested for the meal. Reservations are due by noon the business day prior to the lunch you wish to attend. Transportation is available within specific boundaries for 50 cents each way. Regular activities include Tai Chi classes on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday @ 10:15 a.m., and a nurse visit Mondays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Call 402-553-5300 for an appointment. For meal reservations or more information, please call Karen at 402-552-7480 or the front desk at 402-553-5300.
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he sticker on your car’s windshield serves as a constant reminder that every car eventually has to have its engine oil changed. Go too long and a bright red indicator light will also start demanding attention. If you’re ever tempted to ask if all of those oil changes are really necessary, consider the important work oil performs for your engine. • Keeps your motor running: Motor oil lubricates and cools the moving parts in your car’s engine. Without clean oil your engine’s metal-on-metal components can grind against each other, causing extensive wear. So, not having clean oil and the proper amount of oil can have serious consequences.
Check your vehicle owner’s manual to find out the manufacturer’s recommended oil change schedule. Foregoing regular oil changes can lead to serious engine damage.
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ven if oil is present, there’s no guarantee it will properly protect an engine against damage. If you decide to forego changing the oil according to your car’s maintenance schedule; dirt, sludge, and varnish can build up leading to serious damage or, even, the need for an engine replacement. • Take time for a change: Extended oil change intervals are the number one cause of sludge and varnish build up. Motor oil degrades over time due to heat, pressure, and contamination. Check the owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommended oil change interval for your vehicle and remember, oil is the lifeblood of your engine. of socks to protect your feet. Conventional oil changes leave as much as 10 to 20 As temperatures fall, it is important to remember older percent of metal wear particulates, dust, and other contamiadults and infants are most at danger of suffering serious nants behind. Using an oil system cleaner product a day injury from the cold. The Douglas County Health Departbefore any routine oil change will provide a more complete ment encourages everyone to check on their older neighcleaning of your oil system helping to eliminate unwanted bors, but remember, staying inside also can have its danmetals, gums, and varnishes that can lead to oil contamigers. nation. One day prior to your next oil change, add the oil “Portable heating devices change system cleaner product, and then change the oil and that use combustible fuel filter. should not be used indoors. Most cars are designed for easy oil change maintenance That includes lanterns, so if you don’t change your own oil, take the oil system cook stoves, and grills,” cleaner to your professional service installer. Dr. Pour said. “Fires should Individuals who like to change their car’s oil themselves not be left in unattended should always pop open the hood and inspect the car for fireplaces, and never leave fluid levels and leakage, cracked or frayed belts, and bulgchildren alone with caning hoses. dles.” Next, inspect for broken or worn parts that can’t be seen Cold weather also creates from above and for protection from other issues that can’t concerns for travelers. be seen. Add the oil change system cleaner product a day Consider delaying travel before changing the oil. It frees sticky valves and lifters, when the weather service cleans gum and varnish from internal parts, improves oil has issued an advisory, circulation, increases lubricity, reduces friction, restores and if you must travel, tell engine performance, and improves fuel economy. friends or relatives about After that, add an engine treatment product when you your planned route and estimated time of arrival. Take a cell phone, and make sure change your oil and filter. Let your engine run for 20 to 30 your car is ready for winter. Keep a full gas tank and have a minutes to let the engine treatment product circulate in your safety kit that includes blankets, booster cables, a flashlight, car’s oil system. Finally, don’t forget to rotate the tires after every third oil and maps. change. If you are stuck in the snow and have to stay in your car Visit any reputable auto repair garage or lube shop to to keep warm, run the engine for no more than 10 minutes have all of these inspections and maintenance tasks perper hour, keep a downwind window slightly open, and be formed during your car’s oil change. They’ll also dispose sure the tailpipe is not blocked. of the dirty, used oil for you. “Planning ahead can save your life,” Dr. Pour empha(Family Features provided this information.) sized.
Douglas County Health Department offers tips for keeping you warm, safe during the winter inter is getting serious in Nebraska and the Douglas County Health Department is urging you to prepare for cold weather safety if you have to be outdoors. “It is important for your safety that you plan for the elements,” Douglas County Health Director Dr. Adi Pour said. “Cold weather can be dangerous and your situation can change quickly.” Cold weather safety recommendations include: • Limit your outdoor time and move to a warm location whenever possible. • Dress in layered clothing for the best protection. • Loose-fitting clothing is better than tight-fitting clothing that reduces blood circulation. • Make a special effort to protect your ears, face, hands, and feet in extreme cold. • Wearing a hat on your head will help prevent you from losing heat. • Wear waterproof boots, insulated socks, or two pairs
The importance of having your engine’s oil changed regularly
New Horizons
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January 2014
Eastern Nebraska a Office on Aging • 4223 Center Street • Omaha, NE 68105 Some financial resolutions for 2014 THE PARKSIDE
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or many baby boomers looking to retire in the next that gap.” few years, the biggest worry isn’t whether or not they Annuities and life insurcan retire, but if they’ll outlive their savings. ance are the only investIt’s a valid concern. One of every four people turning 65 ments that provide a guartoday can expect to live past their 90th birthday, and one in anteed income you cannot 10 will live past 95, according to the Social Security Adoutlive, so consider them for ministration. at least part of your portfoFor a married couple, there’s a 58 percent chance one of lio. • Spacious 1 & 2 • Emergency alarm system them will live to be 90. “You don’t want them bedroom apartment homes • 24-hour emergency With 10,000 boomers turning 65 to make up 100 percent • Elevator maintenance every day, it’s something on the of your portfolio, but they minds of more than one fourth of should provide the founda• Washer/dryer in • Controlled access entry Americans. tion,” McNair says. every apartment • Community areas on DecemberIt’s 6, important 2013 “I went into this business because I to start • Garage included in rent every floor Mary Harter hated seeing people who’d followed thinking now about where • Beautifully landscaped • Microwave the rules – saved money in a 401k, you want to be in retirement grounds • Icemaker put their kids through college, gave Mary, and what combination of • Within walking distance • Window blinds furnished to charity – get to retirement and find willclassified ensure you Here’s investments your ad for the section for the January issue. Please let me of Ralston Park they didn’t have enough to sustain have the lifestyle you want know if this is okay. If you have any changes, give me a call @ 402-444-4148. Call today to view your them for more than a few years,” says for as long as you live. Once ad is approved mail your check for $16.00 to: new home in the park! Andrew McNair, founder and CEO of SWAN Capital and “At 65, you don’t want to author of Don’t be Penny Wise & Dollar Foolish. be making riskyNew investments Horizons 7775 Park Drive • Ralston, Nebraska “It’s not enough to have a certain amount of money in because you’re c/o panicking Jeff Reinhardt, Editor your portfolio, you want to have a guaranteed check comabout not having enough 4223 Center Street 402-339-9080 ing in addition to your investments.” money,” McNair says. Omaha, NE 68105 Whether you’re years from retirement or planning for it now, McNair recommends making these three New Year’s Please call 402-444-4148 resolutions: or 402- 444-6654 Thanks! • Resolve to plan for expenses in retirement to equal to place your ad Mitch Laudenback or exceed your expenses today. Many people assume their @ New Horizons expenses will decline once they retire. They forget they’re going to have a lot more free time to do what they love, POOL TABLES Lamplighter II FOR SALE Moving, refelting, assemble, repair, Some of the nicest, newer 1 bedroom Condo. Centrally located McNair says. tear down. Used slate tables. apartments. Elevator, w & d, heated in Elmwood Tower. “What are your dreams? Will you want to travel? Take We pay CASH for slate pool tables. parking garage. Small complex. By bus Garage. up a new hobby? Meet friends for golf two or three times & shopping. No pets or smoking. Call evenings Big Red Billiards a week? Those likely are going to be expenses you don’t 93rd & Maple • 402-397-6921 402-398-0546 402-598-5225 have now,” he says. Also, once you retire, things don’t magically last forever. The rug in the dining room, the For Sale 2 cemetery plots Please support Interested in providing fridge in the kitchen – eventually they’ll need to be reWestlawn Hillcrest Memorial Park, Omaha respite care for people NH advertisers! placed or repaired. Also, as you age, medical expenses Mt. Mariah D, Lot 88, spaces 7&8. with a disability? either appear or increase. $1,500 each or $2,000 for both. Or best offer. Contact the Respite Sit down and think about what your ideal retirement deFreese Call 402-333-5845. Resource Center today looks like, and presume it will be for at least 30 years. Manor Make a list and take a guess at what those activities cost – to learn more. OLD STUFF WANTED even if your retirement is years away. How much money Subsidized housing for (before 1975) 402-996-8444 will you need coming in each month or year? those age 62 and over Military, political, toys, jewelry, or • Resolve to get most of your investments out of taxwith incomes fountain pens, pottery, kitchen echentland@gmail.com deferred plans. If you’re working for a company that prounder $25,450 ware, postcards, photos, books, (1 person) vides a match for 401k contributions, by all means, contriband other old paper, and garden or $29,100 stuff, tools, old household, etc. ute up to the maximum match. “That’s free money – you’d Call anytime (two persons) Tree Trimming be crazy not to take advantage,” McNair says. But anything 402-397-0254 or 402-250-9389 beyond that should be invested in something that’s more 2669 Dodge Beat the tax efficient like Roth IRA, municipal bonds, life insurance, Omaha, NE REPUTABLE 402-345-0622 falling flakes! or real estate. No one expects taxes will go down – they’ll be going up. SERVICES, INC. Chipping & removal. Uncle Sam already has a lien on your IRA or 401(k). Don’t • Remodeling & Your prunings chipped. Senior Citizens (62+) Home Improvement let his lien, the taxes you’ll owe, continue to grow. Go Experienced & insured. ahead and pay now, and your future retired self will be glad Accepting applications for Senior discount. • Safety Equipment HUD-subsidized apartments in you did. Handrails Papillion & Bellevue. Rent determined 402-894-9206 Smoke and Fire Alarms • Resolve to have a portfolio that generates a steady by income and medical expenses. or guaranteed paycheck. The ideal financial security for • Painting Interior & Exterior Monarch Villa West retirement is having a guaranteed income that increases TOP CASH PAID 201 Cedar Dale Road with inflation, McNair says. “You want to plan for an • Handyman Services Best & honest prices Papillion (402) 331-6882 income that meets or exceeds your annual income now so, paid for: • Senior Discounts if you’ll be getting $1,000 a month from Social Security Bellewood Courts Old jewelry, furniture, • Free Estimates 1002 Bellewood Court at age 62 and your current income is $4,000 a month, you glassware, Hummels, Bellevue (402) 292-3300 need to have a plan to guarantee $3,000 a month to cover • References • Fully Insured knick-knacks, old hats &
Independent apartment living for persons age 55+
THE PARKSIDE
CLASSIFIEDS
PAID THROUGH March 2013
Managed by Kimball Management., Inc. We do business in accordance with the Fair Housing Law.
Quality Professional Service Better Business Bureau Member
402-4 5 5-7 0 0 0
purses, dolls, old toys, quilts, linens, buttons, pottery, etc. Also buying estates & partial estates. Call Bev at 402-339-2856
Enoa Aging January 2014
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New Horizons
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Renters insurance can help protect your assets here are many reasons people choose to rent over home ownership. For those who choose to rent, having adequate protection is a must, and with advances in the insurance industry, finding the right coverage is easier than ever. Here are some things to review when considering renters insurance: • Protecting your assets: For many people looking to rent a home or apartment, the thought of renters insurance may seem less important with so many other things to think about. Though not all landlords require it, many do, and for good reason. “Though you hope you never have to use it, renters insurance is so valuable to the protection of your family, your belongings, and, overall, your peace of mind,” said Kathy McDonald, senior vice president at Assurant Specialty Property. “Many returning to the rental market will be pleased with how the insurance industry has evolved, which makes acquiring the best coverage easier than ever.” • Advancements in the industry: The conveniences brought on by computers, tablets, and smartphones have greatly improved the services insurance providers now offer. With easy-to-follow websites, apps, and customer service chats, one can check the status of a claim 24 hours a day. • Keep a home inventory: To evaluate the amount of coverage you need – and assist if you ever need to file a claim – keeping a well-documented list of your possessions is important. A recent survey conducted by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners showed 59 percent of consumers don’t have a proper listing of their possessions in the event of a fire, robbery, or other loss incident. “All renters and homeowners should
• Quality living at an affordable price • Licensed nurse and certified staff on duty 24 hours a day • Located in scenic downtown Omaha
develop a home inventory,” said McDonald. “Whether it is electronics, furnishings, collectibles, jewelry, or clothing, families need to know what they own and how much it’s worth.” Here are some tips for keeping of inventory of the items in your home: • Use tracking tools. Put down the pen and paper and get out your smartphone if you own one of these devices. Many new apps are available to properly keep track of every item in your home. Some even allow you to track every belonging room-to-room with bar codes, pictures, photos, or scans of receipts and descriptions. This helpful tool also can create a back-up file just in case. • Update your list. According to the survey, 59 percent of those who do have a list of their belongings admit they haven’t updated the list within the past year. That can fail to account for many gifts and purchases throughout the year. Make a mental note to add to your list after each birthday, the holidays, or other similar occasions. • Note valuable items. Make sure you get sufficient renters insurance coverage for expensive belongings such as artwork or collectibles, which may be subject to policy limits. Many policies only cover $1,000 for jewelry, so you may need additional coverage, considering many jewelry items exceed that amount. • Consider everything has value. Many items have more value than you think. To better understand this, consider how much it would cost to replace every item in one load of laundry. Sometimes, it’s the little items that add up. Jot down everything including clothing, shoes, kitchen gadgets, and power tools. In-depth information on renters insurance is available from its providers. (Family Features provided this information.)
• Medication administration and daily living assistance • 10 spacious floor plans with large closets • Numerous educational, social, spiritual and wellness programs
Contact Saint Joseph Tower Assisted Living Community to learn more.
www.StJosephTower.com 2205 S. 10th St.
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Omaha, NE 68108
New Horizons
(402) 952-5000
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January 2014
Try this dance-based workout Regular physical activity at any age can help you live longer, feel better, and reduce health problems. But far too many people, including baby boomers, don’t get the exercise they need. According to the 2012 Participation Report from the Physical Activity Council (PAC), 35 percent of Americans over age 55 are physically inactive. Since regular exercise helps control blood pressure, body weight, cholesterol, and so much more, boomers need to find ways to get their bodies moving so they can live longer, healthier lives. “Though any amount of exercise is beneficial, ultimately adults should work up to getting at least 30 minutes most days of the week, as long as they feel comfortable and painfree,” said world-renowned nutritionist Joy Bauer. “From taking a Zumba class to walking and stretching, getting regular physical activity helps the joints stay loose, maintains muscle mass, and gets the blood flowing – all of which make everyday tasks easier.”
“Though any amount of exercise is beneficial, ultimately adults should work up to getting at least 30 minutes most days of the week, as long as they feel comfortable and pain-free.” The American Council on Exercise recommends older Americans choose exercise programs that include cardiovascular, muscle conditioning, and flexibility exercises. Low-impact, non-jarring exercises such as walking and swimming are good options. A key to sticking with a fitness program is making sure it’s enjoyable. A fun new program for older adults is Zumba Gold, a low-impact dance-based workout designed specifically for boomers and older adults. Workout routines combine salsa, merengue, flamenco, and cumbia moves with fun music. For those that would prefer to work out in the comfort of their own home, there is also a Zumba Gold “Live it Up” DVD collection that offers three discs with workouts as well as advice from experts in the fields of nutrition and brain health who can enhance your well-being and more. The program was created by 71-year-old Joy Prouty, a veteran in the fitness industry and a former Rockette. “From cardio to toning, this collection brings together some of Zumba’s most popular offerings in a format enabling older adults to rediscover the energy of their youth,” said Prouty. To learn more about Zumba Gold, purchase the Zumba Gold “Live it Up” DVDs. To find a class near you, visit www.zumbagold.com. Here are some additional workout safety tips: • Whenever beginning a new fitness activity or program, make sure you do it safely. • Wear comfortable shoes that fit well. • Stay hydrated with plenty of fluids. • Listen to your body. If it hurts or it feels like you’ve worked too much, stop exercising. You also need to be aware of danger signs while exercising. Stop the activity and call your doctor or 911 if you experience pain or pressure in your chest, arms, neck or jaw; feel lightheaded, nauseated, or weak; become short of breath; develop pain in your legs, calves, or back; or feel like your heart is beating too fast or skipping beats. “It’s important to see your doctor before beginning any workout routine to receive a thorough cardiovascular evaluation,” said Bauer. “Once you’ve been cleared by your doctor, I recommend starting out slowly.” • Pick an activity you will enjoy. The best way to find a regimen that will stick is to choose something that you enjoy. You’ll be more likely to stay with it and reap all the benefits the physical activity has to offer. Bauer says a program like Zumba Gold is great because, if you enjoy dancing, it won’t feel like exercise and it can also be a social outlet. “Combining physical activity with social time is a total win-win.” (Family Features provided this information.)