New Horizons Alexander Payne is back and PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID OMAHA NE PERMIT NO. 389
A publication of the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging
November 2023 | Vol. 48 | No. 11
better than ever, in latest film
C
By Leo Adam Biga ritical acclaim for Alexander Payne’s new holiday-themed film The Holdovers followed world premiere screenings at the Telluride, Toronto and London film festivals and an initial October 27 in select New York City and Los Angeles theaters. The film, along with Omaha native Payne, star Paul Giamatti and screenwriter David Hemingson are touted as sure-fire Oscar-nominees. Releasing widely November 10, the picture makes its formal Omaha premiere November 11 at the Film Streams Dundee Theater. A reception precedes the 7 p.m. screening. A post-show Q&A features Payne and Washington Post chief film critic Ann Hornaday. The film finds Payne revisiting subjects of love, regret and family that permeate his work. Just as he explored aging in About Schmidt and Nebraska, he explores it anew in The Holdovers, which also marks his reunion with Giamatti, who starred in his Sideways. Giamatti came to Omaha in 2019 for a program in which the director interviewed the actor live on stage before a full house at the Holland Performing Arts Center in Omaha. The eight-week Holdovers production shot in New England from January through March 2022. Editor
COURTESY PHOTO Kevin Tent joined Payne in Omaha to start cutting the film before they finished up in Los Angeles. Essentially a three-character piece, it’s the kind of small scale, personal project Payne prefers and didn’t have with his last film, the bloated Downsizing. “Making this film has been complete pleasure,” Payne said. “It feels like a return to form for me I think. A real joy was working with Paul Giamatti again. I had been dying to work with him again since Sideways, and finally created the right vehicle for him.” A NEW DYNAMIC Entrusting the script to Hemingson, a veteran television writer, pro-
ducer and show-runner best known for Whiskey Cavalier and Kitchen Confidential, was a departure for Payne, a two-time Oscar-winner for Best Adapted Screenplay with Jim Taylor. Indeed, Payne wrote alone or in tandem with Taylor all of the previous features he directed except for Nebraska, which Robert Nelson penned. In Hemingson, Payne’s found a close friend and an important new collaborator. The two are researching a Western to be set and shot in Nebraska. “It’s kind of a dream come true thing when you’re a fan who gets to work with the master,” Hemingson said of Payne. “When you watch all his movies there’s a continuity in
terms of emotionally resonant comedy penetrating inside the human condition. It’s just brilliant.” The intimate collaboration with Payne, said Hemingson, represented “a new experience for me.” “I’ve never worked with anyone this closely before and I don’t think I’ve ever had as good a time.” As a TV writer, he said, “I’ve learned to work really quickly. I could absorb his notes and adjust and move forward.” Giamatti plays protagonist Paul Hunham, an arch educator at the fictional elite prep boys boarding school, Barton Academy, outside Boston in 1970. A former student there with a complicated past, he’s a Barton lifer. Hemingson was keenly aware Payne always intended Giamatti in the role of Hunham. “He had this long-held idea with this specific teacher who’s kind of an awkwardly challenged misanthrope. Very much from the get go it was like, I’m writing this for Paul Giamatti. I had this is my head. So when I was writing the dialogue I would go back and look at everything of Giamatti in John Adams, in Sideways, in American Splendor, in Win-Win, which is fantastic. “I watched what he leans to. Then I kind of wrote from that role from emotional stuff I had with my own --Payne continued on page 9.
Support ENOA by donating on Giving Tuesday in November
Game on: Older adults battle boredom with board games
There has been quite a resurgence in the popularity of board games, and for many people, playing board games connects them with their past. Read more about board games, on Page 16.
Enhance your immunity Our immune system relies on nutrientdense whole foods to function well. Aim for two servings of fruits and eight more servings of vegetables. A serving is half a cup. Adding pre and probiotic foods to support your microbiome increase immune function. Drink plenty of water as well.
body. Remember, a tired body and immune system is a weak body and immune system.
CUT OUT SUGAR AND REFINED STARCHES Studies have shown that refined sugars can suppress your immune system for hours after ingesting. Limiting starch and sugar can help your immune system function better.
STAY CONNECTED Being in close touch with those you love is essential for your mental and emotional health. Try virtual dinner parties, coffee dates, and more.
AVOID TOBACCO AND ALCOHOL Our lungs are extremely vulnerable and an easy target for respiratory viruses. Excessive alcohol consumption impairs the immune system because most of the body’s energy is being expended on flushing out those toxins in your system.
Sell Your House &
GET SUFFICIENT SLEEP We all know sleep restores and heals the
GET OUTSIDE Take walks, get fresh air, and be safe. Just 10-15 minutes of outside time a day will do wonders.
DON’T STRESS At times of stress, the immune system’s ability to fight off antigens is reduced therefore becoming more susceptible to infections. Stay positive and lighthearted. Submitted by Karen Rehm, Wellness Services Manager, Nebraska Safety Council. To schedule a “Healthier & Happier You” presentation, contact Karen at 402-4832511 ext. 102 or send an email to Krehm@ nesafetycouncil.org.
Downsize Stress Free! NeMHAC addresses the mental √ Sell your house “as is”. √ Take the things you want. We’ll take care of the rest. √ We pay up to $1,000 in moving expenses. √ Close on YOUR Date of Choice We Work With Hoarding Situations
CONTACT US FOR YOUR FREE COPY! “A very smooth transaction with a fair market price, I’m glad we didn’t go the regular real estate route. Very professional and everything was upfront with no surprises. Thanks for helping me sell my mother’s house.” Terry E.
Providing Solutions for Home Sellers for more than 25 Years
Home Downsizing Solutions Call us: (402) 291-5005
www.HomeDownsizing.com Page 2
•
Veteran Owned Business
New Horizons
•
health crisis among older adults
M
By Ron Petersen emory problems, cognitive decline and a growing loneliness epidemic, all make older adults especially vulnerable to mental health issues. According to a Centers for Disease Control (CDC) study of mental health in older adults aged 55 and older, it is estimated that 20% of seniors experience some type of mental health concern. The most common conditions include anxiety, severe cognitive impairment and mood disorders, such as depression or bipolar depression. The Nebraska Mental Health & Aging Coalition (NeMHAC) is an all-volunteer organization based in Omaha, that aims to help those who are coping with mental health concerns for older adults around eastern Nebraska since 2016. The NeMHAC aims to raise awareness about the lived experiences and challenges of those who face issues related to mental health and aging; and advocate for relevant policies that address their needs. This coalition is formed to discuss relevant issues and campaign for bettering federal and local legislation and policies to be more inclusive of older Nebraskans and their mental health needs. “Every day we are trying to bring light to the needs of older adults in our com-
November 2023
munity,” Region 6 Behavioral Healthcare manager of Transition Services, Lorie Thomas said. The initial impetus for the coalition was to address issues of long-term care placement for older adults with serious mental illness. Despite current advancements and campaigns, mental health problems are still widely misunderstood. The goal at NeMHAC is to improve community awareness, as they aim to provide the support and resources for those who are struggling with a mental health issue. Every year, NeMHAC hosts an annual Mental Health and Aging Conference for those professionals to learn about mental health needs for older adults around the area. In the fall this year, Gregory Hinrichsen will be the keynote speaker and will discuss various topics such as depression and insomnia in older adults. “He (Hinrichsen) is a guru in mental health and aging,” Thomas said. While NeMHAC aims to raise awareness for mental health, the NeMHAC provides ways to train and educate professionals who work with older adults. “Older adults can respond very well to therapy — it is important to get education
to mental health therapists on older adults. Nursing home and long-term care side have lots of great skills with working with older adults, but they have little education with working with mental health. We want to educate the health providers on aging needs, and we want to educate aging providers on mental health needs,” Thomas said. “We want to provide workforce development. Provide an opportunity for complex case discussions. We want to get information out for advocacy if there is any advocacy issues. And we want to provide opportunity for networking, to be able to connect people to resources.” The NeMHAC is always looking into the future as to how to help educate and bring awareness to mental health and aging, but new things come up regularly and they are constantly adapting to every challenge they face. “So many things are developing right now, but we want to continue to educate and provide education to enhance the services available because we have about 10,000 people a day that turn 65,” Thomas said. For more information visit the NeMHAC website at nemhac.com.
Thanking caregivers: Letter from Mary Ann Borgeson
To all the Wonderful Caregivers, “It is a privilege to take care of those who have taken care of us!” There are no truer words, but many ups and Borgeson downs come with stepping into a caregiver roll. The things that you do might be basic and simple to do, but for those who struggle with the basics- you are there. You are amazing when you help someone find and maintain the balance between their need to be taken care of and their need to be independent. Those you care for still want to manage their own life, but just need a little (or a lot) of help, even if they don’t want to admit it. As a caregiver, you are making a difference in someone’s life in more ways than you know. As caregivers, there are so many things that you do that no one sees. What you provide for cannot be easily defined. It often involves meeting mental, physical and emotional needs and many times just offering an
ear to listen or shoulder to cry upon. You let loved ones share their concerns about growing old and listen as they tell stories from their younger years. You understand when they forget something or how hard it is to keep track of their medications. You understand that even taking a bath or a shower takes planning and seems like an overwhelming task. You, as a caregiver understand how difficult change can be as our loved ones age. As a caregiver, you become their friend. Your positive attitude, your non-judgmental acceptance, your openness, your compassion, your honesty and your courage matter. It makes someone’s day when you smile or when you hold their hand or give them a hug. As caregivers, you know how to make them feel like they are the most important person when you are together. Even if recognition is overlooked and gratitude is in short supply, you are doing something very important. You are appreciated. You are respected. You make a difference. You are loved. Even if you never hear these words, it’s true. Caregiving is far more than just a job, it’s an amaz-
ing journey. It’s a journey that you will treasure forever. Thank you for doing what you do! - Mary Ann Borgeson Chair, Eastern Nebraska Regional Agency on Human Services ENOA gathers comments from clients and caregivers regarding the effectiveness of services provided by ENOA. Comments made include: “It is really nice to leave the home once in a while to have time for myself.” “I was worried about doing the job of taking care of my mom, but your help and comfort made a big difference.” “I have realized that I am not the only one facing caregiver challenges. It’s good to see there are other caregivers facing the same situations.” “The Case Manager has helped guide me through most of the uncertainty and is determined to keep me healthy.” “Having caring, compassionate people to support me makes all the difference.” “I was not prepared at the beginning to be a caregiver, but after the support I have received, it is going much better.”
Cold weather means caution Cold weather brings potentially serious health risks both indoors and outdoors. The Douglas County Health Department (DCHD) has some suggestions to help you stay safe in the dangerous conditions. Always remember to: • Limit time outdoors and stay in warm locations when possible. • Wear multiple layers of clothing. • Loose-fitting clothes are best because tight clothes hinder blood circulation. • Be mindful of protecting your ears, face, hands, and feet. • Wearing a hat can slow the loss of body heat. • Waterproof boots with insulated socks or two socks on each foot give the best protection. Please make a special effort to shield infants and the elderly from the cold. They are at the greatest risk for serious injury and illness caused by extreme cold. The DCHD encourages you to check on elderly neighbors who might need your help. Portable heating devices can help in the winter, but they must be used carefully. Devices requiring combustible fuel, such as some lanterns and grills, should not be used indoors. Fires of any size, including candles, should never be left unattended.
This is especially important if children are around. Electric devices like space heaters also can be dangerous if used improperly or if they are used near combustible materials, such as paper and some fabrics. Be sure to investigate the safety warnings about any heating device you would consider using. Winter weather also comes with travel concerns. It is best to delay your travel plans if the Weather Service has issued a warning. When travel is unavoidable, tell your friends and family your planned route and expected arrival time. Keep a cell phone handy and do your best to keep it fully charged. The DCHD also recommends preparing your car for winter. Keep your gas tank full and have a safety kit with blankets, booster cables, a flashlight, a shovel, windshield cleaning tool and maps in your vehicle. If your car gets stuck in the snow, it’s typically best to stay inside it to keep warm. Run the engine for no more than 10 minutes per hour, keep a downwind window slightly open, and make sure the tail pipe isn’t blocked. (The Douglas County Health Department provided this information).
November 2023
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 five-county region may subscribe for $5 annually. Address all correspondence to: Ron Petersen, Editor, 4780 S. 131st Street, Omaha, NE 68137-1822. Phone 402-444-6654. FAX 402-444-3076. E-mail: ron.petersen@enoa.org 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 9,000 through direct mail .
Editor................................Ron Petersen, 402-444-6654 Ad Mgr................Mitch Laudenback, 402-444-4148 Contributing Writers.........Leo Biga & Andy Bradley ENOA Board of Governors: Mary Ann Borgeson, Douglas County, chairperson; Angi Burmeister, Sarpy County, vice-chairperson; Lisa Kramer, Washington County, secretary; Pat Tawney, Dodge County, & John Winkler, 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.
•
New Horizons
•
Page 3
Elder Access Line Legal Aid of Nebraska operates a free telephone access line for Nebraskans ages 60 and older. Information is offered to help the state’s older men and women with questions on topics like bankruptcy, homestead exemptions, powers of attorney, Medicare, Medicaid, and Section 8 housing. The number for the Elder Access Line is 402-827-5656 in Omaha and 1-800-527-7249 statewide. This service is available to Nebraskans ages 60 and older regardless of income, race, or ethnicity. The Legal Aid of Nebraska hours of operation are 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 9 a.m. to noon on Friday.
Want to stay home, but can’t do it alone? Stay safely in your home AND make sure you get the care you need - with Immanuel Pathways.You will have a team of caregivers and someone to manage and coordinate ALL your services.
For complete program details call 402.991.0330 or visit Immanuel.com Immanuel Pathways PACE®: Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly 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. 23_189
Serving select zip codes in Douglas, Sarpy, Washington, Dodge, Cass counties 5755 Sorensen Parkway | Omaha, NE 68152
Driving Research Study We are looking for older adults (65-90 years) who are active drivers with different levels of memory and thinking abilities
(normal, mild cognitive impairment, and Alzheimer’s disease). Help us understand how Alzheimer's disease affects how people move, sleep, and drive
Contact the Mind & Brain Health Labs:
402-559-6870 or mbhl@unmc.edu People will be paid for their participation.
IRB #: 522-20-FB
Homes designed with your future in mind! Open concept floor plans with “Universal Design”* standards • Homes starting in the
• Wider Hallways
$401’s
• Wider Doorways (most doors)
• One Floor Living • “Open Concept” design –
easy traffic flow
• Step-less Front Door &
Garage Entries
• Low-Curb or Zero-entry (per plan) Shower Access
• Low Maintenance Exteriors • Available in over 20
Communities
Locations available in all parts of the Omaha area
For NW/Elkhorn Living: 402-916-9883 For SW/Gretna Living: 402-895-1100 For Papillion Living: 402-896-9200 For Bellevue Living: 402-614-6088
www.RegencyHomesOmaha.com * T h i s i s Un i v e rs a l De s i g n ; n o t A DA S t a n d a r d s .
Page 4
•
New Horizons
•
Bitterness and sweetness
For years in the fall, my friends and I have traveled into the countryside to gather bittersweet berries, lovely autumn decorations. Bittersweet, a vine that grows on host trees, has intense orange berries. The vines are somewhat rare, so their location is a wellguarded secret. Bittersweet is pleasing to the eye and yet poisonous which may be how it got its name. This fall I attended a reunion of old friends who annually come together to catch up on one another’s lives. We always have a theme for our group sharing. This year it was “bittersweet.” Each person was invited to think of an event or experience from the past year that combined both bitterness and sweetness. As people shared their stories, it was evident that the bitter and the sweet coincided with most events in peoples’ lives. As a symbol of this fact, each participant received a small bunch of bittersweet berries to take home. What were some of the most telling examples? Some spoke of illnesses and surgeries that were bitter to endure and yet ended in healing, a sweet result. One
Conscious Aging By Nancy Hemesath
spoke of a newly diagnosed incurable disease through bitter tears. Yet she was surrounded by the strength of loving support that lifted her spirit. Another spoke of her macular degeneration that has robbed her of most of her sight and that will eventually end in total blindness. She maintained a calm spirit due to her faith and her support network that helped her stay in her own home. Her prayer is not that she regains her physical sight but that her inner vision becomes ever clearer. Since this gathering I see bittersweet everywhere. A young friend of mine just gave birth to her first child, a beautiful baby girl. It was a long, tough delivery but the sweetness of the child eclipsed the hours of pain. On a less profound note, there was bittersweet in my own life, going through a colonoscopy. The report was good — the sweet part. I need not describe the bitter part. One of the sweetness’s associated with aging is that we gain the wisdom
to see the good along with the difficult. I don’t know many people who would want to roll back the calendar in order to learn again the many life lessons that we have already mastered. We watch younger people struggle through their own difficulties, knowing that they will come out the other side as they grow through the process as we have. As we mature, even death does not appear to be all bitterness as it once did, at least it did in my mind. I have begun to see it as an adventure. I am kind of excited about what is on the other side. Of course, I can say that now when death does not seem imminent. Why would there not be bittersweet in death when it has been present throughout all of life? (Hemesath is the owner of Encore Coaching. She is dedicated to supporting people in their Third Chapter of Life and is available for presentations. Contact her at nanhemesath@gmail. com.)
Soaring Spirits International provides comfort, discussion for local widows
T
By Ron Petersen he Soaring Spirits Regional Group is a place for discussion where those who attend get to, “do a short introduction, giving their name, name of their lost partner, how long it’s been since they died, and anything else they wish to add. They can say as much or as little as they want, though I do ask they keep it short, so everyone gets a chance to speak. Sometimes it’s lighthearted, sometimes someone is grieving deeply, and we all try to help. There’s usually tears at some point. For the most part, we talk about day-to-day things, and enjoy a safe space where everyone knows how we feel,” said Vivian Santos. Vivian Santos, the current Regional Group Leader, started hosting meetings in May 2021. Santos took over for a couple of Omaha widows who had attended the Soaring Spirits International Camp Widow and met there for the first ever meeting in 2018. Since 2018, the group’s main purpose has been helping widowed people to recreate their social circle. “One of the many things lost with the death of a partner is the friend’s circle,” Santos said. “Even if one continues to see them, they don’t understand the feelings and challenges we go through unless they’ve also gone through partner loss.” The group meets twice a month and they have anywhere from four to 16 people who attend.
November 2023
The ages range from as young as 27 to 80’s. On average, people are in their 60’s-70’s. “As one who hears the stories from all the different people that attend meetings, it is clear to me that no matter how different the people and backgrounds are, we are more alike than anything else. It is also a great comfort to be able to talk to people who know how it feels to be widowed,” Santos said. “There are people who didn’t have very good relationships, and yet grieve the loss as deeply as those who were very happy. Some stories are fairy tales, some would make excellent horror movie scripts. In general, widowhood is a unique experience that includes the loss of future plans, financial support, one’s place in society as part of a couple, friends, sometimes even family, on top of the loss of love and companionship.” The Soaring Spirits Regional Group meets the second Saturday of every month at 1 p.m. at Stories Coffee, 11432 Davenport St. Ste 1, in Omaha and the fourth Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m. located at Panera Bread, 12960 W Center Rd. For a more in-depth understanding of what Soaring Spirits International does, all of the resources available to widowed people, and what Camp Widow is, please visit the Soaring Spirits International website at soaringspirits.org or call them at 877-6714071.
Lift Chairs keep you safe in your home Lift Chairs are ideal solutions for anybody who has difficulty transitioning from a seated position to standing due to limited mobility or balance issues. However, the benefits extend far beyond assistance simply sitting down and standing up. They also help you get back down without having to crash down into the chair. While they don’t double as beds, they can also be used as a quick napping option (depending on the chair you get and how far they recline). Therefore, you don’t have to get up and go all the way to your bed in these situations. Lift Chairs can be used for more than just reclining while watching your favorite television programs. Whether you like to use a computer or telephone, read books or magazines, or engage in a number of other recreational activities, the variety of positions available from your lift chair can comfortably accommodate. Many individuals even opt to sleep in their Lift Chairs rather than in their beds because of the variety of positions available. Most models can be reclined to a flat position, but can also be modified to different angles and elevations for maximum comfort. For individuals who must keep their legs elevated while they sit or sleep, Lift Chairs are an ideal solution. With optional heat and massage features, Lift Chairs provide therapeutic benefits to those with stiff and sore joints, back pain, arthritis, and a variety of other conditions. They provide excellent, affordable alternatives to expensive bathtub modifications for those who require heat and massage therapy. Besides heat and massage, some lift chairs come with a cup holder, tray, magazine holder and even a type of speaker system so you don’t have to play the TV so loud. Therefore, there won’t be a high TV volume to bother others in the room. There are three main types of lift chairs: TWO-POSITION LIFT CHAIR This is the simplest form of lift chair. It offers two different reclining positions: your standard 90-degree upright angle and a 45-degree recline so your legs are elevated and your back is reclined 45 degrees back
from its upright angle. The reclining motor and leg elevator are all attached to one motor, so as the chair reclines, the leg support elevates.
only pay for the motor in the ity of people just pay for one doesn’t think he needs chair which is approximate- the lift chair without going it. Within three months a through insurance benefit ly $300 depending on the fractured hip occurs from of the motor in the lift chair unsafely getting up from a insurance. It doesn’t matter because of the documentaif you have two insurances regular chair. or a supplemental, they only tion delay. Although, if you Optimally, sitting in the have a prescription, most pay for the motor. lift chair and trying it before THREE-POSITION LIFT states do not requre sales tax purchasing it is best. There Insurance requirements CHAIR collected since it is a mediare: are many different styles, Similar to the two-posical equipment item. • Prescription that insizes, fabrics and colors. tion lift chair, the three-posi- cludes a diagnosis of arthriIt’s time to consider a lift It’s not uncommon for this tion lift chair features an up- tis or a neurological disorder chair if you are unsafely location to have over 50 lift right angle and a 45-degree and how long you will need getting up from a regular chairs in stock for you to see reclined angle. It also has chair. Even if you can get up and try. it. a reclining angle that goes • Chart notes. In the chart from a regular chair, but you Get the lift chair that is almost entirely flat, allowing notes, the physician must are rocking yourself up, it’s best for you. Lift chairs look to take even more pressure time to get a lift chair! Unindicate that he is seeing great and they’re an exceloff your back and joints. fortunately, I’ve seen famiyou for a lift chair and why lent solution to keep you This can also be a comlies concerned for the safety safely in your residence. you need it. fortable position to nap, of their loved ones, come in • The chart notes must read, and watch TV. Like for a lift chair, but the loved (David Kohll of Kohll’s RX) include that you can’t get the two-position chair, all of up from a regular chair with the reclining and elevating arms. Once up from the lift aspects of this chair are one chair you can walk with a moving part. walker, cane or no aid. • Insurance will not pay INFINITE-POSITION for a lift chair if they’ve LIFT CHAIR paid for a wheelchair in This is the most flexthe past for you or you are ible style of lift chair. The wheelchair bound. infinite-position chair does Many physicians don’t almost exactly what its provide all the above inforname tells you: Allows you mation initially, so there is to set your chair in a variety a waiting period before all of ways to find your most the proper documentation comfortable position. You arrives. It seems the majorcan sit upright, lay completely flat, and have your Traditional funding sources back at a 45-degree angle and your legs completely are making it more difficult elevated. for ENOA to fulfill its Some infinite-position mission. Partnership chairs allow your legs to opportunities are available raise above the angle your to businesses and individuals head is at when laying comwanting to help us. pletely flat. These chairs are These opportunities include also known as zero-gravity I would like to become a partner with the volunteering, memorials, chairs. They can reach “inEastern Nebraska Office on Aging, and help honorariums, gift annuities, finite” positions because fulfill your mission with older adults. and other contributions. the back recliner and leg elevator run on two different motors so they don’t have to work as a single device. While they’re often the most expensive chairs, they also $30 = 7 meals or 1.5 hours of in-home homemaker services give you the most flexibility or 1 bath aide service for frail older adults. to find what’s comfortable $75 = 17 meals or 3.66 hours of in-home homemaker services for you. or 3 bath aide services for frail older adults. When choosing a lift chair, it’s important to sit in $150 = 35 meals or 7.3 hours of in-home homemaker services multiple chairs to determine or 7 bath aide services for frail older adults. which is most comfortable and fits you the best. There $300 = 70 meals or 14.63 hours of in-home homemaker services are many lift chair sizes and or 14 bath aide services for frail older adults. cushion arrangements that you will certainly notice a Other amount (please designate)__________________________ difference what’s best for you if you test them. Be Please contact me. I would like to learn more about how to include sure to go to a business that the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging in my estate planning. has a large variety (has approximately 7-30 lift chairs Please ma il on hand is optimum) of lift with thisyofour donation rm to: Name:_____________________________________ chairs in their showroom, Eastern so you can determine which Office oNebraska Address:___________________________________ n Ag Attentio one is best for you. n: Carol ing Gleaso 4780 S The price of lift chairs City:______________State:_____ Zip: __________ Omaha, . 131st Street n ranges from $900 to $3500 NE 68 Phone:____________________________________ (402) 444 137-1822 depending on the bells and -6536 whistles you prefer. If insurance approves a lift chair for you, they will
r u o y d e e n e W
! t r o p p su
These gifts are tax exempt.
ENOA
November 2023
•
New Horizons
•
Page 5
Please see the ad on page 3
Thank you to the New Horizons Club members $50 Eileen Kegley $10 Suzan DeCamp Gretchen Mack Mary Bamesberger $5 Kathleen Koons
Intercultural Senior Center You’re invited to visit the Intercultural Senior Center (ISC), 5545 Center St. The Intercultural Senior Center facility – open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. – offers programs and activities from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. from Monday to Friday. The ISC offers a light breakfast, lunches, crafts, health presentations, exercise, language classes, citizenship, technology, gardening and more. This month, the ISC will be hosting a health clinic from November 1-3, where seniors can receive vaccines to prepare for this cold season. Additionally, the ISC will have a performance by Dave Eames of the Merrymakers on November 29th, at 12:30 p.m. Please note that ISC will be closed on November 10, November 23, and November 24. Lunch reservations are due by 9 a.m. A voluntary contribution is suggested for the meal. Please call 402-444-6529 for reservations. Monthly food pantries are available for adults ages 50 and older. ISC’s SAVE bus (Sustenance Assistance Vitality Engagement), can bring case management services to your doorstep. For more information, please call 402-444-6529 or visit the ISC website at interculturalseniorcenter.org.
Y
La Vista Senior Center
ou’re invited to visit the La Vista Senior Center, located at 8116 Park View Blvd. The facility provides activity programs and meals Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Please call 402-331-3455 for general Community Center hours. Meals are served weekdays at 11:30 a.m. Reservations are due by noon the business day prior to the date the participant wishes to attend and can be made by calling 402331-3455. A $4.25 contribution is suggested for the meal if you are age 60 and older. If you are under age 60, then the meal cost is $11. In addition to meals being served daily, the La Vista Senior Center offers a variety of activities such as: Bingo, outings, cooking classes, computer classes, movies with popcorn, arts and crafts, a variety of card games, quilting, tai chi, exercise classes, musical entertainment and various parties. Please visit our website at cityoflavista.org/seniors for updated information or call 402-331-3455.
Respite Across the Lifespan Life can bring on stress for many of us. Finding ways to relieve stress are important to our overall health and wellbeing. Caregivers are not immune to this stress. Please contact Respite Across the Lifespan at edbennett@unmc.edu or 402-559-5732 to find out more about respite services and to locate resources in your area.
Page 6
•
New Horizons
•
Three key valuation methods to consider when selling your house I recently met with a couple that wanted to sell their house and was looking for an option that did not involve listing it with an agent. Like many sellers I speak to, they hoped to avoid some of the items that come with selling a house in a traditional manner. Things like getting a house show ready, keeping the house show ready, inconveniences of showSouchek ing the house, doing improvements and repairs to the house to maximize value, etc.
ask the Seller to pay for some or all of their costs. The Buyer’s Discount is something we haven’t seen much of for the last few years, but historically (especially in a flat or down market) the Buyer will always offer less than the asking price.
REPAIRS AND UPDATES One of the most difficult things I do when Inspecting a house is being realistic with a seller about the repairs and updates I think are needed to bring the house up to its Potential Value. I do my best to put myself into a potential Buyer’s shoes when determining what needs to be done to bring the house up to its THE COMPONENTS OF full Potential Value. Even if the current condition of A HOUSE VALUATION the house is good enough There are a few basic components that I consider for the current owner, it may be below the potential when creating values or Buyer’s expectations beoffers for a house. The Potential Value if the house cause of other houses they is in a “nice,” fully updated have looked at during their condition. The Transaction home search. And, if you haven’t Costs that need to be taken priced the costs of repair or into account to sell a house. update projects for a few The updates or repairs years, you really should, needed to get the house just to get an idea of how into its Potential Value expensive it is to update a condition. kitchen or bathroom, new To determine the Potenflooring, etc. I’m getting tial Value, I look at coman education in this myself parables, or “comps,” of preferably similar houses in right now, with improvements we are doing to a the same neighborhood as rental property. Everything our subject house. is much more expensive Transaction Costs are than they were just a few items that go into every years ago. sale of a house. Items such as the costs to find a THREE VALUATIONS Buyer (usually real estate After explaining the varicommissions or fees of 5 ous “components” that go to 7%), cost to a closing into a valuation, I provided company to “close” the three different valuations transaction, title insurance, for their house. recording fees at the county 1. An overly optimistic courthouse, pest inspection, real estate agent value. whole house inspection, 2. A reality based real Buyer’s new loan costs, estate agent value. and the Buyer’s Discount. 3. A “net” cash offer that Some of the above items I could make based on the are traditionally the recurrent condition of the sponsibility of the Seller or house. Buyer, but depending on An overly optimistic real the condition of the market, estate agent value. The last the Buyer will typically few years of the real estate
market have given agents a reason to provide what I consider overly optimistic values of houses. The demand along with what were very low interest rates provided good reasons for these valuations. Agents provide an “estimated sellers proceeds” sheet to provide an estimated “net” amount the Seller will receive, assuming the house is sold at asking price and the Seller only pays for the agent’s commission and customary closing costs. In a flat or down market, this is typically not realistic. But, I wanted to provide what I thought this seller would be told they could expect with this scenario. A reality based real estate agent value. I then provided a slightly lower value and “net” amount that I thought they would realistically expect from a traditional sale of the house. Last, I provided a “net” cash amount if they were to sell to a cash home buyer, like my company. Being able to sell when they wanted, in the house’s current “as is” condition, with my company paying all closing costs and expenses. It thankfully doesn’t happen very often, but in this case, the seller was very disappointed with my valuations and offer. Unfortunately, if they want to sell their house, I think they are going to need to talk to a few other agents or home buyers to get a better perspective of what they are facing. Their expectations were just not based in reality, in my opinion. Ben Souchek is an author of the book Home Downsizing Secrets, and the owner and founder of Home Downsizing Solutions, a company that specializes in helping home owners transition from their current house to a new home, apartment, or other senior living community for more than 25 years.
PayPal payment ploy, scam Recently, cybercriminals have taken advantage of PayPal, the popular international online payment platform. Cybercriminals are spoofing PayPal in order to try and steal your personal or financial information. In this scam, cybercriminals send you a phishing email saying that one of your PayPal payments didn’t process and that
November 2023
you need to act fast. The email contains a phone number allegedly from PayPal, prompting you to call. This phone call appears legitimate, but it’s actually from cybercriminals spoofing PayPal. This type of attack isn’t exclusive to PayPal. If you call this number, cybercriminals can trick you into giving away your personal or financial information.
Will a better breakfast make a difference for a better day? For some, the first meal of the day is a smoothie, while others enjoy toast. Other options may be miso soup, chilaquiles or—for the particularly daring—blood sausage. When someone first told you that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, did you just take their word for it? Check out these facts to start your Better Breakfast Month off on the right foot. Why does breakfast matter? Even if it’s a grab-andgo apple or a last-second bagel as you head out the door, eating breakfast regulates your blood sugar, thus helping you combat stress, irritableness, brain fog and dips in energy. Breakfast is crucial, especially for older adults, as it ensures nutritional needs are being met, keeps energy levels consistent throughout the day and can prevent the nauseating effects of taking morning meds or vitamins on an empty stomach. Breakfast deniers may also face long-term health risks such as iffy metabolism and heart disease. If
you have trouble eating in the early hours, don’t fret— a mid-morning meal can be just as beneficial! I don’t want better breakfast, I want the best. What should I eat? Get familiar with the tasty morning trinity: protein, fiber and fat. Implementing this trio into your morning meal won’t just keep you fuller longer, it’ll also improve your gut health and aid your digestion throughout the entire day. Examples of this phenomenon: a greek yogurt parfait, an egg and veggie scramble or a breakfast sandwich with greens. Don’t have the time to prepare a meal before you hit the road? Try prepping overnight oats the night before, blend up a quick smoothie or grab a storebought granola bar with mindful ingredients. Fuel up with what feels right to you and your body. Is my morning coffee part of a balanced breakfast? Hold off on the joe for an hour or so—the best beverage to start your day is a cup of water. If plain
water doesn’t strike your fancy, add a splash of juice or a few slices of fruit, like lemon or lime. A cup of tea can also hydrate you and offer helpful antioxidants. But here’s the good news: You can still indulge in your beloved coffee, but to avoid jitters and maximize your caffeine boost, drink your latte in the late-to-midmorning when you’re a little more hydrated and your stomach isn’t empty. Now that you know the ins and outs of breakfast, you’re ready to seize the day with brand new breakfast ideas and recipes. If all the inspiration is too much for one meal, don’t forget that breakfast for dinner is another option—and it’s just as fulfilling. Supporting families since 1886 across Nebraska, Tabitha offers a range of services, from results-driven rehabilitation, accessible athome home health care, innovative living communities, resourceful serious illness support and compassionate hospice services. Learn more at Tabitha.org.
Are older veterans more social? The data from this year says, ‘Yes’ By Paula Crozier Our usual preconceived notions on older veterans may seem bleak and are certainly not the norm according to recent statistics by the US Census Bureau. This report is based on data from the 2021 American Community Survey (ACS) and can be found at:https://www.census.gov/library/ publications/2023/acs/acs-54.html. According to an article published July 2023, the US Census Bureau found that US Veterans aged 65 and older are actually less likely to be socially isolated from their peers. And there’s even better news as well. Nearly 49% of all US Veterans are aged 65 and older and the largest group served during the Vietnam War. There are only 183,000 WW II veterans in this age group. Contrary to popular prejudices, older veterans are actually much better off than we think having higher incomes than other older adults! They are less likely to be at risk of social isolation at about 43% compared to similar aged peers at 46%. Older veterans were, however, more likely to have a functional disability whether physical, neurological or emotional; butt they were less likely to have a service-connected disability than compared with other veterans. What does this all mean? What the public typically thinks of with an older veteran is that they would usually have wartime era disabilities, mainly emotional and physical, however, this study proves this assumption incorrect.
The study found that these veterans are more socially interactive with family, neighbors and their peers. They are more actively involved and tend to be more philanthropic as well. We can learn a lot from our older veterans who are more socially engaged, actively involved and more financially secure. It is believed this is due to the generation whose social circles were, in fact, social; not virtual. Older veterans grew up outside, worked at much younger ages than today’s youth, served in the military longer, and came home (especially those from the Vietnam war era) to a public who failed to recognize their service as they did the WWII veterans. Thus, these older adults have had to create more relationships and through their efforts, have become a group to learn self sufficiency and inspiration. November recognizes all veterans, and we should add the “Thank you for your service, with a heartfelt, and “all that you have taught us.” to honor those who have served selflessly and who continue to serve all those around them. Paula is the Director of Marketing and Development at Florence Home Healthcare Center, Royale Oaks Assisted Living and House of Hope Assisted Living and Memory Care. In her spare time, Paula is rediscovering all the things she did as a child that she can still do like painting, coloring, hiking and bike riding. She also trips and fails forward happily at gardening.
November 2023
We want to hear from you. • Do you have questions about the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging, its programs, or services? • Do you have a comment about the agency and how it serves older adults in Douglas, Sarpy, Dodge, Cass, and Washington counties? • Do you have a story idea for the New Horizons newspaper, or would you like to receive a FREE copy each month? Please send your questions, comments, and story ideas to:
enoa.info@enoa.org We appreciate your interest in ENOA and the New Horizons.
OMAHA SENIOR LIVING SERIES
NOVEMBER TOPICS: FINANCIAL PLANNING PRE-PAID FUNERALS Wednesday November 15, 2023 2.00 pm - 3.00 pm
Millard Public Library 13214 Westwood Lane Omaha, NE, 68144
Speakers: Financial Planning Carolyn Reynolds Heafey-Hoffman Dworak & Cutler
Call (402) 212-5282 to reserve your seat Refreshments Provided!
•
Pre-Paid Funerals Valerie Newman Morgan Stanley
Hosted by: Nebraska Realty Senior Real Estate Specialists
New Horizons
•
Page 7
ENOA moves, opens office in Blair
T
By Ron Petersen he Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging’s Blair satellite office recently moved to a new location at 1904 South Street, Suite 107, in the heart of Blair. “With the new location, we are right along the highway, we have signage, better visibility, and an easily accessible building,” Chris Casey said. Chis Casey is the Information & Assistance Community Resource Specialist for Washington & Casey Dodge Counties. As a resident of Blair, he has worked in the Blair office since 2016. Casey’s primary job duties include connecting Washington and Dodge County residents to ENOA’s many programs and services that enable older adults to stay in their home living independently for as long as possible. Casey also coordinates the Home Delivered meal program, and in the spring, the Farmers Market vouchers for eligible residents in Blair. Maureen and Daniel Howe assist Chris with meal delivery each week.
NEW HORIZONS PHOTO
The Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging (ENOA) Washington County Office can now be found at its new location at 1904 South Street, Ste. 107 in Blair. Casey is available for community Casey said he would love to visit through Fridays from 8 a.m. to 4 outreach presentations and health with you. p.m. Stop by or call 402-426-9614 fairs to share ENOA information. The new office is open Monday to schedule an appointment.
DMV expands appointment system for driver license services The Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles is implementing a new appointment system for driver licensing services. Customers in the Omaha, Bellevue and Lincoln offices will soon be able to
Page 8
•
book an appointment online to receive the services they need at the time which is convenient to them. The appointment system has been piloted at the Omaha Metro West driver licensing office at 17007
New Horizons
•
Burt Street. During the month of July, the system was expanded to the driver licensing offices at Omaha Metro South (Bellevue, 4502 Maass Road), Omaha Metro North (4606 N 56th Street) and Lincoln
November 2023
(500 West O Street). The new appointment system will be an entirely online system. Customers can go to the Nebraska DMV’s website at dmv. nebraska.gov. There, customers will schedule an appointment and specify what services they need. Appointments can also be made on-site, however, there may be limited or no appointments available for same day service. Customers are encouraged to schedule in advance to guarantee they receive the time and date they request. “This new appointment system will enhance the customer experience in the Omaha, Bellevue and Lincoln areas,” said Rhonda Lahm, Director of the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles. “The new system will save time for customers and our services will be more efficient and more tailored to each individual customer’s needs.” Services that can be done at a driver licensing office include first-time applications, written and drive testing, and renewals for permits, driver and commercial licenses and State ID cards. Customers must still bring the required paperwork and
documents, such as proof of citizenship, lawful status, and address verification. Applicants are encouraged to review those requirements on the DMV website prior to visiting the driver licensing office to ensure they have what they need to compete their transaction. “This new system is just one of many ways we are expanding our services and making a trip to the DMV quick and easy for Nebraskans,” Director Lahm said in a press release. The appointment system will be accessible on the home page of the Nebraska DMV’s website, dmv. nebraska.gov, and further information will also be included on renewal notices sent in the mail. Class O (car) drive test appointments scheduled before the new system begins at 17007 Burt Street location will still be honored. County Treasurer Offices will continue to provide vehicle services at their locations as is currently the practice. The Omaha Public Library and Metro Community College’s Digital Express offer computer access and other services to the community.
Warren Smith. Payne’s longtime editor Kevin Tent and costume designer Wendy Chuck joined him on the project. Composer Mark GIAMATTI’S GENIUS Orton, who scored Nebraska, did Hunham is another of the neurotic the music. sad sacks Giamatti’s made a career As a first-time collaborator playing. Hemingson felt obliged “trying “He can just sort of embody to understand the feeling” Payne anything,” Payne said of the actor. “wanted to evoke.” “One of his big “He’s also a brilliant human. He’s things is saying it without saying COURTESY PHOTO very intelligent, very well read. His it. In other words, how do we show Dominic Sessa (left) stars as brilliance is expressed through his it, how economical and real can we Angus Tully, Paul Giamatti acting … and this just felt like a get it. Alexander’s also into what he (middle) as Paul Hunham and very good part for him.” calls ‘emotional brake fluid’ – that Da’Vine Joy Randolph as Mary Payne knows from working with thing that starts and stops a charLamb in director Alexander acter.” Any big emotion or action actors the caliber of Giamatti, Matt Payne’s THE HOLDOVERS, a in a Payne film, he said, must be Damon, George Clooney and Jack Focus Features release. “earned.” Nicholson that they can deliver endPayne confirmed his “commitless variations of notes and colors. same references.” Giamatti’s late He’s learned that if wants something father, Bart Giamatti, taught at Yale ment about always making sure everything is surprising but believspecific, he must ask for it. and knew Hemingson’s father. able.” “It forces you to be very clear in During the shoot, the writer and “Jim (Taylor) and I have always your direction,” he said. “However, actor bonded. “My whole goal was had that criterion that you never with Paul I have so much history just to give Paul whatever I could want anything to happen in a movie with him now that I could offer on the page and to be available to that couldn’t also happen in real him suggestions by just grunts or a talk about what he wanted to talk life,” said Payne. “We’re very look. Crew people commented to about.” allergic to artifice and concocted me on the shorthand that Paul and I Besides having a script and charenjoyed. He’s just the perfect actor. acter he believed in, Giamatti knew things.” Hemingson gave himself over He knows all of his dialogue backhe was in good hands with Payne. to being coached by Payne. “Alwards and forwards and can do it “Alexander has the exceptional exander was able to push me in any which way – each take truthful, skill of being able to talk to each certain directions as I was writing. each take different.” actor the way they need to be talked He kind of guided me in terms of I In Hunham, Giamatti was asked to,” he said. “Everybody has differto play a man whose dour demeanor ent needs or approaches and he is an need more of this, can we find some and acerbic attitude mask deep hurts incredibly sensitive human being to emotional breakthrough here, can and effectively keep people at bay, know what each person needs to get we find a point of connection, how do we amplify this.” lest he be hurt again. The story finds out of them what he wants. Payne said early on in the script him forced him to spend Christmas “I can tell you the experience of development phase he knew, “it was babysitting students who have no being directed by him is amazing well on its way and I could see that where to go for the holiday. Soon because he’s there with you. He we had a similar sense of what’s the boys do leave to be with family would stand there, watch me, and and friends, except for one, wiseass talk to me. The connection you feel dramatic, what’s funny, what’s human and what makes a good Angus. because of that is unbelievable. I movie.” love him, I really do.” A FAMILY BY ANY OTHER “David started giving me pages Hemingson developed a similar NAME and eventually a whole draft, and rapport with and respect for Payne. Together with the school’s Black then I would go through it with “He brings his A game, and I never cook, Mary Lamb, who grieves the a fine tooth comb and give him wanted to be unprepared.” Hemingloss of her son in the Vietnam War, son watched all of Payne’s previous suggestions, both big and small. these disparate characters become We would discuss those or exfilms to get a fix on the dynamic the holdovers of the movie’s title. ecute those. Even during shooting Over the course of two weeks the the filmmaker infuses in his work, there were times I had to adjust the saying, “There’s a certain pace, a teacher, the student and the cook screenplay this way or that based on learn to make the best of a bad situ- certain rhythm to his pictures.” a location or a certain actor, and he ation, in the process learning about was always available. INFORMED CHOICES each other and forming a surrogate “I’ve directed every other departHis research extended to viewfamily. ing the work of Hal Ashby and Bob ment but with David it was my first “You know me,” Payne said, “I experience directing a writer, and Rafelson, two American directors like to do stories about people who we had a really good relationship of the 1970s whose work Payne find ways to love one another when admires. “Seventies cinema deeply and had a good time doing it, and it’s difficult.” would like to do it again. It develresonates for him and I understand Indeed, Hemingson said of the oped into quite a lovely and endurwhy. It was all about characters. It odd threesome,“They’re all damwas driven by original stories about ing friendship.” aged people” and their trauma As much as Hemingson apprecipeople.” proves to be “common ground.” That humanistic cinema aesthetic ated the tutorials, he cherished even Newcomer Dominic Sessa, whom became a point of reference for the more the trust Payne placed in him, Payne found at one of the schools saying, “Alexander let me write it entire creative team, Payne said, the film shot at, plays Angus. Stage- “because a trick I’m trying to pull and he didn’t change a lot of it. The screen star Da’Vine Joy Randolph table read is pretty much the draft off with this movie is not only that (Dolemite is My Name) plays Mary. it is set in 1970 but pretty much we shot with very few alterations.” The idea of having three stranded looks and sounds like a film actually Not every director wants the figures from different backgrounds made then.” He went as far as using screenwriter on set. Payne has was suggested to Payne by an old visual technology from that era and no qualms with it. At his request, French film. To develop The HoldHemingson was there for much of having a mono rather than stereo overs script Payne enlisted Heming- soundtrack. the shoot. son after reading his work and “He was around – just to have “I think the look and sound and learning he attended an Eastern prep feel of it will very much suggest someone around to talk it through school himself. with (if he felt a new line or acit having been shot on early 1970s Hemingson and Giamatti share an film stock,” Payne added. tion was called for). I’ve used Jim Eastern prep school and New Haven Taylor that same way, too, when In addition to Hemingson, The background. Both attended Yale. I’ve directed the movies he and I Holdovers was the first time Payne “We’re both New Haven boys,” worked with cinematographer Eigil wrote. He certainly makes himself Hemingson said. “We both had the Bryld and production designer Ryan available for nips and tucks as we --Payne continued from page 1. dad and uncle. But it was tailor made for Paul, yeah.”
November 2023
•
go, and I had experience with David on this.” BUILDING CHARACTERS Long before production, Hemingson drew on elders in his own family to help flesh out the Hunham character the entire story revolves around. “My father ran away from home when he was 15 to join the Merchant Marines. My father was a very brilliant but tough guy. He finished his career captaining a thousand foot cargo vessel. “I endowed Paul Hunham with a lot of the wisdom and point of view, specifically of my uncle, who was a World War II veteran. He was just an incredible guy, a hunter, a sportsman, a real kind of font of salty, slightly cranky wisdom that he imparted to me over the years. A lot of what Paul Hunham has to say is directly from him.” Hemingson avoided falling into cliches and tropes when it came to these archetypal characters. “What I was going for with Paul was not to apologize for some of the more difficult parts of his personality, but to show him as a complex, interesting, funny and ultimately tragically heroic character. This small life dedicated to an ideal fueled by the abuse he suffered at the hands of his dad and being squeezed out and marginalized because of his many maladies. “I wanted Paul Hunham to be a handful, I wanted to show the totality of him. You can have a cranky but lovable professor – that’s an archetype – but I wanted to see a guy who lived and breathed it.” Barton, the scene of Hunham’s greatest triumphs and failures, is his legacy. “It’s very clear that for better or worse this is his identity. I wanted to portray the arc of this man’s life.” In Angus, he said, Hunham “sees his past and his future.” Added Hemingson, “I wrote with love and respect and increasing understanding of my relationship with my uncle and father into Angus’ relationship with Paul, and watching the way the two kind of heal each other.” And Hemingson gave Mary a knowing, wounded and empathetic voice that serves as the conscience of the story. Hemingson couldn’t be happier with what Payne and his crew and cast wrought from his screenplay. “I think the most eloquent moments in the movie are not even dialogue-driven, they’re the way Alexander rendered what was in the screenplay – the way he took what I wrote and interpreted it. If a film stays with you and turns into a great film it’s because it accomplished something incredibly difficult. which is to give you a window into a specific humanity and to transport you to discover its universality.” If Hemingson learned nothing else, it’s that every detail, every moment matters. “Oh, my God, especially if you’re working with Alexander Payne. Trust me, there is not a grain of that thing that that man hasn’t thought about.”
New Horizons
•
Page 9
D
Volunteer Connect offers a variety of opportunities o you have some spare time, a skill to share, and wish to contribute to your community? Private and non-profit agencies are looking for your help. Please contact Tia Schoenfeld with the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging’s Volunteer Connect program at 402-444-6536, ext. 1045 for more information on the following volunteer opportunities: • American Cancer Society Hope Lodge searching for volunteers in assorted opportunities. • Quilters and knitters to create items for Duet residents, at their Winter Extravaganza. • Volunteers to write greeting cards of encouragement to residents in skilled care assisted living facilities and Meal of Wheels recipients. • Siena Francis House, volunteers to assist with serving breakfast and lunch • Tip Top Thrift Shop always needs volunteers on Thursday, Friday, or Sat-
urday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 1-4 p.m. Tip Top is located at 5910 Maple Street in downtown Benson. • Volunteers Assisting Seniors VAS Volunteers are needed to provide nonbiased Medicare Counseling and Homestead Exemption Application Assistance through Volunteers Assisting Seniors.
• Hospice of the Midwest is looking for some dedicated volunteers that would like to spend time with our patients in need of extra companionship or we have an option for indirect volunteer work as well. • Omaha EITC Coalition needs volunteers in various roles in advance financial empowerment. • Tip Top Thrift Shop always needs volunteers on Thursday, Friday, or Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 1-4 p.m.
SPEND LESS
on your prescriptions with the
FREE
Douglas County Prescription Discount Card
FREE enrollment for Douglas County residents of all ages who are without prescription drug coverage.
AVERAGE SAVINGS OF 20%! • No age requirements. • No income requirements.
This program is offered in a joint effort of Douglas County and the National Association of Counties (NACo).
• Unlimited use for the whole family. • No claim forms to fill out and no annual fee to pay.
For more information call 1-877-321-2652 or visit
nacorx.org
This plan is not insurance. Discounts are only available at participating pharmacies.
Page 10
•
New Horizons
•
November 2023
Y
Fremont Friendship Center ou’re invited to visit the Fremont Friendship Center, 1730 W. 16th St. (Christensen Field). The facility is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to 12:30
p.m. A meal is served weekdays @ 11:30 a.m. Reservations, which are due by noon the business day prior to the meal the participant wishes to enjoy, can be made by calling 402727-2815. A $4.25 contribution is suggested for the meal. This month’s activities will include: • November 1: Special Music with Pam Kragt @ 10:30 a.m. • November 2: Presentation with Nye @ 10 a.m. • November 3: Bingo with Pro-Med Care @ 10:30 a.m. • November 8: Special Music with Julie Couch followed by monthly birthday celebration @ 10:30 a.m. • November 9: Sing-along with Jeanne @ 10 a.m. • November 10:Center Closed for Veteran’s Day • November 14: Bingo with Shalimar followed by Turkey Bowling@ 12:30 p.m. • November 15: Special Music with Billy Troy @ 10 a.m. • November 16: Library Book Mobile @ 9:30 a.m. • November 17: Deadline line for Basket Donations • November 22: Special Music-Merry Maker’s Presents Mark Irwin @ 10:30 a.m. • November 28: Board Meeting @ 1:30 p.m. • November 29: Special Music with Bill Chrastil @ 10 a.m. Tai Chi offered every Tuesday and Friday from 9:15-10 a.m. If you can’t stay for lunch with our friends and you currently participate in any activity at the center, you may now order a Grab-n-Go Meal to take home for your lunch. Grabn-Go meals must be reserved the day before by noon and the person ordering the lunch must come in to the center to pick it up at 11 a.m. The number of Grab-n-Go lunches are limited to a first come first serve basis. Suggested donation is $4.25. For meal reservations and more information, please call Laurie at 402-727-2815.
Corrigan Senior Center You’re invited to visit the Corrigan Senior Center, 3819 X St. this month for a variety of activities. The Corrigan Senior Center is open weekdays from 8 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Lunch is served at noon. A $4.25 donation is suggested for the meal. On November 2, Monthly Council Meeting @ 10 a.m. On November 9, Veteran’s Day Party @ 11 a.m. On November 22, Thanksgiving Potluck @ 11 a.m. On November 28, National Day of Giving - will be writing “Words of Wisdom” to 5th Graders On November 30, 50/50 Raffle Drawing BINGOCIZE is a new program Corrigan have implemented which focuses on fall prevention and nutrition education all while having fun playing BINGO. BINGOCIZE is on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 a.m. Bingo is played every Monday and Thursday at 12:30 p.m. Cards and puzzles is played every day of the week at 8 a.m. Happy Hands meets on Tuesdays at 9 a.m. to work on crocheting, knitting, and macramé projects. Call 402-731-7210 for more information.
Florence Senior Center You’re invited to visit the Florence Senior Center, 2920 Bondesson St. At the Florence Senior Center, lunch is served at 11:30 am. A select menu is offered Monday thru Friday. Meal reservations must be made one day in advance. Please call by noon the day before for a meal reservation. On November 9th, the center will host Rocken E Woody from the Merrymakers at noon. The center hosts activites such as Tai Chi, annual picnics/ special events, bingo, cards, gym & game room access, special guest speakers and socials. They also provide health and nutrition programs. For more information, please call Colleen Metz @ 402444-6333.
Programs changing this month at AARP NE Information Center By Tony Harris AARP NE Information Center Do you understand how Social Security works? Have you wondered what the difference between full, early, and delayed benefits are? Are you curious about how to secure your benefits and the future of the Social Security program? On November 15 at 1:30 p.m., attend the AARP Nebraska Information Center’s presentation on “Social Security: Under-
standing Your Benefits.” Attendees will discover what Social Security is and build confidence in making a decision that is right for you. Suzan DeCamp, AARP Nebraska’s Volunteer State President, will lead the presentation at the AARP Nebraska Information Center located in the Center Mall at 1941 South 42nd Street. You do not need to be a member of AARP to attend
this presentation. AARP Nebraska is also providing free fraud prevention presentations offered by trained AARP volunteers for organizations in the Omaha area. To request a free fraud presentation, you can email neaapr@aarp.org. The Information Center is open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. For more information call the Information Center at 402-916-9309.
Study shows proof-of-concept efficacy for a long-acting hepatitis B treatment A new study, detailed in the December issue of Science Advances, explores a long-acting injectable treatment for Hepatitis B (HBV) developed at the University of Nebraska Medical Center that the authors say may be a game-changer for people with the disease, in addition to helping to prevent new infections. Benson Edagwa, PhD, a corresponding author on the paper, said that the findings of the study were promising, not just in terms of efficacy but also in how the medicine was able to suppress virus replication for months in two relevant experimental mouse models of HBV infection. The studies were conducted in mice carrying human liver cells called hepatocytes to support natural infection as it occurs in humans and in persistently infected HBVtransgenic mice, where the viral DNA is incorporated into the mouse genome to continuously produce many copies of the virus in multiple organs. “We followed the infected animals for at least three months after a single treatment, and during that time, our therapy, called NM1TFV, outperformed the existing standard of care when administered as an injectable,” Dr. Edagwa said. “Following NM1TFV injection, we saw a sharp decline in HBV DNA,” said corresponding author Larisa Poluektova, MD, PhD, professor in the UNMC Department of Pharmacology and experimental Neuroscience. “When we looked for the presence of the virus in the human liver cells of the infected and treated animals, it was very minimal. We also observed a slight but declining trend in serum Hepatitis B surface antigen over time, which is suggestive of an effective HBV treatment.” Dr. Edagwa said he hopes to take the drug to clinical trial within the next year or so. Around 300 million people worldwide are living with HBV and chronic infection is the most common risk factor for liver damage and cancer. Currently, existing Hepatitis B oral treatments must be taken daily for life. “That can be complicated by forgetfulness, pill fatigue and stigmas around some of these diseases,” said Howard Gendelman, MD, chair of the UNMC Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience and an author on the paper.
“A single long-acting shot is going to be a game changer.” The study provides “clear proof of concept” toward a new therapeutic paradigm for the treatment and prevention of HBV infection, the authors say in the paper. The study also explored the potential mechanisms by which a single shot of the chemically modified tenofovir formulation, called NM1TFV, controls HBV replication for four months in chronicallyinfected mouse models. According to cell culture findings by corresponding author Natalia Osna, MD, PhD, professor in the UNMC Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, and co-lead author Murali Ganesan, PhD, assistant professor in the division, chemical modification of tenofovir with docosanol, a naturally occurring lipid used for treatment of cold sores, was shown to enhance the activity of the innate immunity, thereby significantly improving the effectiveness of tenofovir, an antiviral medicine that stops the virus from reproducing inside cells. “Simultaneous inhibition of the virus replication and enhancement of the innate immunity by NM1TFV could potentially lead to a new and improved treatment path for chronic hepatitis B infection,” Dr. Osna said. Dr. Edagwa said the drug has been licensed by UNeMed to Exavir Therapeutics Inc., a spinoff company from his laboratory and that of Dr. Gendelman. “Chronic hepatitis B is a global health threat that commonly leads to liver failure, cancer and death. New treatments are urgently needed, and the disease is affected by poor compliance of daily medications. This makes the interest in generating longacting medicines of significance. Without question this report is a breakthrough by demonstrating a new pathway that can affect disease prevention and treatment. The authors need be commended for their diligence and creativity in bringing this breakthrough forward,” said Christian Brechot, MD, professor, department of internal medicine, University of South Florida; president of the Global Virus Network; and former president of the Institute Pasteur.
This Month’s Crossword Puzzle
(The University of Nebraska Medical Center provided this information).
This Month’s Sudoku
November 2023
•
New Horizons
•
Page 11
Millard Senior Center You’re invited to visit the Millard Senior Center at Montclair, 2304 S. 135th Ave., this month for the following: • November 2: Halloween decorations taken down @ 9 a.m. • November 3: Name That Tune @ 10 a.m. • November 6: Movie @ 12:30 p.m. • November 7: Honoring Montclair Veterans @ 11 a.m. • November 10: Senior Center closed in observation of Veterans Day • November 13: THEOS (To Help Each Other Socially) @ 12:30 p.m. • November 14: Crafts (holiday door hangers) @ 9 a.m. • November 17: Wheel of Fortune @ 9:30 a.m. • November 21: Crafts. Center pieces that will be given to Azria Health - Montclair. @ 9 a.m. • November 23-24: Montclair closed for the Thanksgiving Holiday • November 27: Book Club @ 1 p.m. • November 28: Making center pieces for Montclair’s X-mas Party @ 9 a.m. • November 30: Decorating the senior center for Christmas 9:30 a.m. Tai Chi every Mondays and Fridays @ 9:30 a.m. MahJongg Wednesdays @ 1 p.m. Board meeting is always the first Wednesday of the Month. Chair Volleyball Thursdays @ 10 a.m. Dominoes Thursdays @ 12:30 p.m. For more information, please call 402-546-1270.
Camelot Friendship Center You’re invited to visit the Camelot Friendship Center, 9270 Cady Ave., for regular activities, which include Chair Yoga, card games, Tai Chi, Pinochle, 10 Point Pitch, and bingo, this month for the following: • November 3: Camelot is closed • November 8: “WEAR MISS MATCHED SHOES DAY” • November 9: Deandre Jones with Merrymakers performs @ 11:45 a.m. • November 10: Camelot is closed • November 14: Presentation by Dr. Rudi Mitchell celebrating National Native American Month @ 12:15 p.m. • November 15: “Craft Day” Learn how to make body scrubs just in time for Christmas @ 12:30 p.m. • November 16: Jackpot Bingo @ 12:15 p.m. • November 17: Book Club @ 12:30 p.m. • November 23, 24: Camelot is closed for Thanksgiving Every Wednesday – Chair Volleyball @ 10 a.m. Every Monday – Card Game: Manipulation @ 10 a.m. Every Monday – Pickleball @ 10 a.m. Grab N Go meals are available. For more information, contact Barb at 402-444-3091 or barbara.white@cityofomaha.org.
Incomes often lag behind property tax increases
By Andy Bradley Contributing Writer hat dreaded green oversized post card. For area homeowners it arrived late last summer. The official “Notice of Proposed Tax Increase” announced an uptick in the most recent obligation to the county assessors’ office – a increased tax on your domain that was likely higher than last year, and the year before, and the year before that. According to the Douglas County Assessor’s office, more than one-half of homeowners are experiencing property tax increases, as reported May 31 by KETV NewsWatch 7. While some political subdivision levies have stabilized or declined slightly in 2023, property values have risen, dramatically in some cases. This means that while your local school district or city hall may proudly announce a decline in the levy, property taxes can still trend upwards due to enhanced property valuations. According to state law, non-agricultural property must be assessed at or near market value. The impact can be particularly troublesome for older homeowners who may be living on semi-fixed incomes. Social Security, which is 100 percent of the income for 40 percent of retirees, will rise 3.2 percent in January, following an 8.7 percent increase this year.
T
Yet home market values, upon which property taxes are calculated, rose an average of 12.7 percent in 2023, according to a Sept. 29 report in the Omaha WorldHerald. The hike was 14.6 percent in Sarpy County. Last year, Kiplinger Magazine labeled Nebraska the least tax-friendly state for seniors, due not just to property taxes but the entire tax burden, including sales and income taxes. “While the cost of housing is comparatively low in the Cornhusker state, the median property tax rate in the state is the ninth highest in the U.S,” according to Kiplinger. The Nebraska Department of Revenue reported an overall average rate of 1.75 percent of assessed home value in 2022, higher in Douglas County at 2.29 percent (the highest in the state), and 2.22 percent in Sarpy County. There rates are more than double the average national rate of just under one percent. Property taxes are calculated based on the market value of your home and the tax rate for various local political subdivisions, such
Programs help cushion property tax burden for eligible Nebraska seniors
You’re invited to visit the Ralston Senior Center, 7301 Q St., Suite 100 this month for the following: • November 1, 15 & 22: Bingo @ 12:15 p.m. • November 8: Board meeting @ 10 a.m. • November 12: Bingo @ 1 p.m. • November 29: The Merrymakers present music by Billy Troy @ 1 p.m. Lunch is catered in on Wednesdays @ 11:30 a.m. A $5.50 contribution is normally suggested for the meal. Reservations are due by noon on Tuesday. Play games and bingo after lunch. Contact Diane @ 402-885-8895 for reservations. The Ralston Senior Center will host a double deck pinochle every Friday from 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. Obtain an annual Ralston Senior Center membership for $10. Contact Ron Wilson @ 402-734-3421 for further information.
By Andy Bradley Contributing Writer ebraska’s property taxes are among the 10 most burdensome in the USA. Fortunately, some modicum of relief is available for older homeowners in the Cornhusker state. The Homestead Tax Exemption program benefits eligible Nebraskans 65 and older, as well as disabled veterans and others with qualifying disabilities. Property tax reductions range from 10 to 100 percent, depending upon income and other factors. For two-person households, a 10 percent adjustment is available for households with an income under $57,700 (the average Nebraska household median income is $48,639). A 100 percent exemption is available for households reporting an income less than $38,900 (Social Security, pensions and investment income are included). The amount of exemption adjusts upward or downward for every 10 percent increase or decrease
Page 12
November 2023
Ralston Senior Center
•
New Horizons
•
as school districts and city/ county governments. For example, a home assessed at $350,000 will pay 2.29 percent of that, or just over $8,000 a year. Property taxes fund local public schools, community colleges, fire districts, public transportation, infrastructure and other area government projects. Property tax income does not funnel to the federal or state budget. Homeowners interviewed at the Millard Senior Center said they had experienced painful increases for several years, although no one interviewed is considering selling their home for this reason. High property valuations can benefit homeowners when selling, but not before. “I’m not selling my house,” said Tom Bernatow. “If my home valuation came in at $5,000 I’d be happy.” Linda and Robert Todd live on an acreage in Sarpy County, and plan to move to a townhome in two years. While high taxes are not the primary motivator, they did contribute to their decision. “Taxes are awful,” she said. “They go up every year.” Usually they make an annual trek to the Sarpy County Assessor’s office to protest their valuations and taxes. “Sometimes that helps, but not last year,” Robert said. Linda added, “What we pay is horrible. I cringe every time he (Robert) writes the check.”
N
in income. Those eligibility thresholds will likely change slightly next year. Medical expenses, including Medicare Part B and D premiums, Medicare supplemental insurance premiums and other medical expenses can be deducted from income. Also, if a spouse lives in a nursing home or assisted living facility, 100 percent of those costs are deductible. The Douglas County Assessor’s office processed 12,200 requests in 2023, and approved more than 92 percent of them, according to Michelle Hatcher, who oversees the program for Douglas County. The website for your local assessor’s office will provide complete information about the program, including application and income guidelines and deadlines. Volunteers Assisting Seniors (VAS) help older homeowners navigate the application process, which can be, in the view of VAS executive director Toni Roberts, “pretty confusing and complicated for a lot of --Tax continued on page 13.
Nebraska’s neighbors also offer assistance for older homeowners By Andy Bradley Contributing Writer n the opinion of Volunteers Assisting Seniors Executive Director Toni Roberts, Nebraska’s Homestead Exemption is “fairly generous” in comparison with other states, including our neighbors in Iowa, South Dakota, Wyoming, Colorado and Kansas. These states feature wildly differing property tax relief strategies. Iowa, for example, recently capped the annual increases in home assessment values for taxation purposes at three percent a year – an aggressive new tax relief initiative signed into law May 4 by Governor Kim Reynolds. Nebraska law, in contrast, assigns as a mandatory property tax valuation at or close to 100 percent of market value, with no cap on increases. Iowa also offers tax credit of up to $1,000 to senior two-person households reporting incomes of less than $24,354. Still, Iowa has the 10th highest overall property tax rate (1.5 percent) in America. South Dakota freezes home assessment values for the elderly and disabled who report earning less than $38,029 (Federal Adjusted Gross Income). In addition, for low-income residents age 70 and older, property tax payments can be delayed until the taxpayer’s home is sold. For seniors with very low income (under $20,141 for multiple person households), the entire property tax burden is abated. (In comparison, Nebraska offers total property tax forgiveness for multiple person households earning less than $38,900). Wyoming and Colorado rank in the top ten for the lowest property taxes in America, although Colorado residents have recently experienced a spike – 30 to 60 percent in some cases – in their taxes. Colorado offers a “Senior Property Tax Exemption,” which reduces the actual taxable value of qualified residential property by
I
--Tax continued from page 12. seniors.” In a 20-minute conversation, either inperson at their Center Mall headquarters, over the phone, or at an area “pop up” clinic, seniors can receive personal assistance with the application form from one of 17 volunteers who specialize in the Homestead exemption process. The exemption request can be found on the county assessor’s website after Feb. 2, and must be filed with the county assessor’s office by June 30. Requests must be resubmitted every year. Roberts believes the program is underutilized and underpromoted. “The word is just not getting out,” she said. Her office plans to reach out to several hundred local agencies in the coming months to ensure that more people are not only aware of the Homestead program but also taking advantage of VAS’ services.
50 percent of the first $200,000 of taxable value. All persons 65 and older, regardless of income, are eligible if they have lived in the home for 10 or more consecutive years. The average savings on a $200,000 home is $630. Wyoming’s average property tax rate is .55 percent, the 10th lowest in the country. (Nebraska’s, by contrast, is 1.61 percent). A property owner with a $220,500 home – the average home value in the state – will pay $1,337 in property tax. Residential properties are assessed for tax purposes at just 9.5 percent of market value. The Cowboy state also offers several generous – albeit complicated – tax relief programs. For example, the Property Tax Deferral Program allows a resident age 62 or older who has lived in their home for at least 10 years to postpone payment of up to one-half of property taxes owed until the property is sold. Kansas also features several programs. Refunds of up to $700 are available to persons 65 and older in households with incomes less than $37,750. That refund balloons to over 75 percent for households earning less than $22,000 and with an appraised home value under $350,000. More information about individual state tax property tax relief programs can be accessed through the websites of each state’s Department of Revenue. Nebraska’s Governor Jim Pillen and Douglas Couty Assessor-Register of Deeds Walt Peffer back new efforts to reign in property taxes, similar in some respects to the initiatives listed above. Peffer, for example, has suggested capping tax increases at three to five percent, as well as reducing property valuations to 70-80 percent of assessed values, overturning the current 100 percent valuation state mandate. Debate over property tax relief proposals is expected to dominate the Unicameral once again in 2024.
This year, VAS helped nearly 1,500 older homeowners secure about $1.7 million in property tax relief. VAS assistance is available free of charge to anyone in Dodge, Douglas, Washington, Sarpy and Cass Counties. Appointments can be scheduled after February 2 by calling (402) 444-6617. Go to vas-nebraska.org for more information. Another important – yet underutilized – property tax relief program is imbedded with your state income tax return and available for Nebraska homeowners of all ages. Residents can claim an income tax credit as part of their state return, even if they owe nothing in state income taxes. The credit entails a partial refund of taxes paid to local school districts and community colleges. It amounts to about $110 for every $100,000 in home valuation. Not everyone is aware of the benefit, which was
T
ENOA is recruiting volunteers to become Ombudsman Advocates
he Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging is looking for men and women ages 21 and older to join its Long-term Care Ombudsman Program, which is co-sponsored by the Nebraska State Ombudsman Program. ENOA’s Ombudsman advocates visit residents in local long-term care facilities and assisted living communities to protect the residents’ rights, wellbeing, and quality of life. Long-term Care Ombudsmen advocates must complete 20 hours of initial classroom training and 18 hours per year after the first year to remain certified. The next Ombudsman training for volunteers will be November 6, 7 and 9. During the training, the volunteers learn about residents’ rights, aging issues, Medicare, Medicaid, communication skills, how to investigate residents’ complaints, the importance of confidentiality, and federal and state rules, regulations, and laws regarding Nebraska’s longterm care facilities and assisted living communities. Before being assigned to a long-term care facility or an assisted living community, new volunteers will make four visits to a site with an experienced Ombudsman Advocate to learn more about what the program entails. After a three-month probationary period, the new volunteers are certified as Ombudsman Advocates. Certified Ombudsman Advocates will be assigned to a long-term care facility or an assisted living community where they’ll visit for two hours a week to meet with administrators, residents, and the residents’ family members to address concerns. For more information about ENOA’s Long-term Care Ombudsman Program, please call Marsha Peters at 402444-6536.
First United Methodist Church First United Methodist Church has some excellent adult curriculums available. They are free for any Christian group, which would like to study prayer, discipleship and beliefs. Call First United Methodist Church at 402-556-6262 if you wish to receive more information about the list of the studies available.
established by the Nebraska Legislature in 2020. This year, nearly a quarter of the available credits were left unclaimed, yet an improvement from the 40 percent unclaimed in 2022. $560 million in tax credits were authorized this year. These programs have been a godsend for many area seniors. Kay McMahon lives in a modest home in the Aksarben area, and gets by on Social Security alone. Her $2,200 property tax bill has been erased, as have her obligations for each of the last eight years. Without the Homestead Tax Exemption, “I certainly wouldn’t be living in my house. I wouldn’t be able to afford it.” Similar sentiments were expressed by Sandy Reimers, who has enjoyed a 100 percent exemption in 14 of the last 15 years. Without the exemption, “I wouldn’t have had money for the taxes, that’s for sure.”
November 2023
1-833-422-1751
•
New Horizons
•
Page 13
Diabetes is leading cause of new blindness in adults: Many do not realize that they have it According to the National Diabetes Statistics Report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 11% of the United States population (approximately 37.3 million people) has diabetes. The study also found that 38% of adults 18 and older in the U.S., some 96 million people, have prediabetes. Diabetes is the leading cause of new blindness among adults from 18 to 64, according to a Prevent Blindness news release, in 2023. Dr. Daniel Laroche, a New York City eye specialist, said, “To help prevent diabetes, it is essential to have an excellent diet with salads, vegetables and fruits. Exercise 30 minutes a day.
Meditate for 15-30 minutes a day. Reduce sleep apnea and snoring by sleeping on the side and not directly on your back.” Many people with diabetes may not know about the damaging effects the disease can have on vision. “Regular dilated eye examinations are essential to detect diabetic retinopathy early and provide vision saving treatments when ready,” he added. Dr. Laroche is also a glaucoma specialist who wants people to be aware that glaucoma, cataracts and retinopathy can begin to surface between the ages of 40 and 70. “Over time, these diseases can lead to blindness, so it’s best to address
them as soon as possible,” said Dr. Laroche. Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness in African Americans and people from the Caribbean, and the simple way to prevent the devastating effects of glaucoma is to maintain regular eye visits. “Eyesight or human vision is one of the most important senses,” Dr. LaRoche said. “As much as 80 percent of what we feel comes through confident our sense of sight. Be By simply protecting the on thethe gochance eyes, people will reduce of blindness and vision loss while also staying on top of any developing eye diseases, such as glaucoma and cataracts.”
Move freely.
Enjoy living independently. Take $199* off all month long! Experience the largest selection of scooters in Nebraska! Take a test drive and enjoy superior designs, comfort, style, and portability.
Lift chairs High-quality, try and buy showroom, plus delivery
Visit our showroom and save $199* Hurry! Sales ends November 30th!
CALL 402.408.1990 SHOP Omaha, Lincoln and SW Iowa. Sale Ends November 30th.
www.KohllsRx.com
Page 14
•
New Horizons
•
*$199 off applies to any scooter, power or lift chair.
November 2023
Eclectic Book Review Club The Eclectic Book Review Club, founded in 1949, is announcing its fall 2023 schedule of author appearances. Each event includes readings and discussion by the noted book’s author. The monthly meetings, which include lunch and the author book review, are held at noon at The Field Club of Omaha, 3615 Woolworth. The cost is $16 per person per month. To reserve a seat, call Jo Ann at (402) 571-5223. Reservation deadline is the Friday morning prior to the Tuesday meeting. Authors for fall 2023 include: • November 21- Lori Lynn Ahrends, an international speaker in early literacy brings her “Overall Buddies” as she combines storytelling and singing in “I’m a Pig.”
UNO Research Study The CAPACITY Lab in the Department of Gerontology at UNO is seeking participants for a research study. The purpose of the study is to learn about the effects of the built environment on sleep. The study will involve a series of in-person surveys about your sleep quality and home environment. This can take up to one hour, but most participants finish in less than 30 minutes. You may have to take a screening survey. Compensation is available to those who complete the survey. To be eligible for the study, you must live in Nebraska, be 60 years or older, identify as Hispanic or Latino and can speak and understand Spanish. If you are interested, please call 402-554-2951 or email us at UNOCapacity@ unomaha.edu.
Omaha Fire Department
T
he Omaha Fire Department’s Public Education and Affairs Department will install free smoke and/or carbon monoxide detectors inside the residences of area homeowners. For more information, please call 402-444-3560.
Flaherty Senior Consulting Caring for a loved one is difficult, and the challenges are amplified during a pandemic. Join Flaherty Senior Consulting for a series of Solutions Group gatherings that will address the questions and challenges caregivers face. Solutions Groups provide opportunities for caregivers to learn how to deal with various issues, obtain skills and knowledge, engage in discussions, and interact with others in similar circumstances. Upcoming meeting dates and locations are:
Fremont Friendship Center host, provides musical guests weekly
• Nov. 14, Jan. 9, March 12, May 14, July 9, Sept. 10, Nov. 12 St. Vincent de Paul Church 14330 Eagle Run Dr. • Dec. 13, Feb. 21, April 17, June 19, Aug. 21, Oct. 16, Dec. 18 St. Timothy Lutheran Church 93rd and Dodge streets • Dec. 7, Feb. 1, April 4, June 6, Aug. 1, Oct. 3, Dec. 5 The Servite Center of Compassion 72nd St. and Ames Cr. • Nov. 18, Jan. 27, March 23, May 18, July 27, Sept. 28, Nov. 30 Faith Westwood United Methodist Church 4814 Oaks Ln. The Solutions Groups are facilitated by Nancy Flaherty, MS, CDP, president of Flaherty Senior Consulting. She has extensive experience working with family caregivers and caregiver groups. Registration is required to attend each gathering. Masks are mandatory and social distancing will be observed. Visit flahertyconsulting.net or call 402-312-9324 for more information. Flaherty also provides private consultations with family caregivers to help them develop individual plans for their loved ones. For information on private consultations, Solutions Group meeting times, and/or to register to attend a Solutions Group, email Nancy at flahertyconsulting@cox.net or call/text her at 402-312-9324.
NEW HORIZONS PHOTOS The Fremont Friendship Center, located on 1730 W 16th St. in Fremont, welcomes those who want to get up on their feet, to dance the morning away to a wide range of great music. The Links, DeAndre Jones, Bill Chrastil and Tim Javorsky all performed at the Fremont Friendship Center in October.
CLASSIFIEDS
Please call 402-444-4148 or 402-444-6654 to place your ad
A+ Heartland Concrete Const.
I AM COLLECTING
402-731-2094
Call 402-551-9038
Connect with the New Horizons on LinkedIn.
deFreese Manor
• War relics • Omaha Police Department badges • South Omaha Police Department badges
Driveways, garage floors, sidewalks, retaining walls. patio specialists since 1985. Insured/references. 30-year BBB member
UNO Research Study The CAPACITY Lab in the Department of Gerontology at UNO is seeking participants for a research study. The purpose of the study is to learn about the effects of the built environment on sleep. The study will involve a series of online surveys about your environment, sleep, and caregiving support. This can take up to one hour, but most participants finish in less than 30 minutes. You may have to take a screening survey. Compensation is available to those who complete the survey. To be eligible for the study, you must live in Nebraska, be 19 years and older, identify as Nepali, Bhutanese, Burmese, Karen, Myanmarese, or Hindi-speaking, support and care for another South Asian adults, aged 50 and older and also provide care in informal and unpaid relationships, eligible participants might be a friend, family member, neighbor, or unpaid caregiver to the person they help or support. If you are interested, please call 402-554-2951 or email us at UNOCapacity@unomaha.edu.
Senior Citizens (62+) Accepting applications for HUD-subsidized apartments in Papillion & Bellevue.
Bellewood Courts
1002 Bellewood Court Bellevue (402) 292-3300 Bellewood@KimballMgmt.com
Monarch Villas
Subsidized housing for those age 62 and over with incomes under $33,300 (1 person) or $38,050 (two persons) 2669 Dodge Omaha, NE 402-345-0622
201 Cedar Dale Road Papillion (402) 331-6882 Monarch@KimballMgmt.com
GET RID OF IT!
Managed by Kimball Management, Inc. PO Box 460967 Papillion, NE 68046 www.kimballmgmt.com
Johansen Brothers
Haul away, garage, basement, rental clean out…
We do business in accordance with the Fair Housing Law.
This Month’s Crossword Answers
Call Frank
402-312-4000
This Month’s Sudoku Answers
November 2023
•
New Horizons
•
Page 15
Older adults benefit from playing board games
I
By Ron Petersen f you’re looking for a fun way to spend some time with friends or family, a board game might be the perfect solution. Games aren’t just fun to play — they can also prove to be especially beneficial for older adults, helping them to keep their minds and memories as sharp as possible for years to come. Sitting around the kitchen table and playing a game benefits everyone’s shortterm memory, especially games that require strategy and thinking ahead. Playing checkers and chess, or playing card games regularly have been proven to improve short-term memory and cognitive skills. According to a study featured in The Journals of Gerontology, people who played games on a regular basis were significantly less likely to suffer from cognitive decline than their peers who didn’t play games. “Studies show that people who play board games once a week are less likely to get Alzheimer’s or dementia. They compare this with other activities that prevents dementia,” Spielbound Board Game Cafe CEO and Co-Founder, Kaleb Michaud said. Spielbound Board Game Cafe, located on 3229
NEW HORIZONS PHOTO
Spielbound Board Game Cafe provides a positive space for all people to experience the challenge, art, and fun unique world of board games. Harney St., provides a niche – so we’d run free to together in the community. make it a weekly habit be“We’re really emphasizcomfortable and welcoming play game events to help cause they enjoy playing the ing the need to get away games and spending time tospace for those who want to spread the word.” from screens,” Michaud gether,” Michaud said. “The participate in the vast world Spielbound first opened said. “We are playing in per- main purpose of memberof board games. in 2012, then in 2014, they son, there are tactile objects ships is to have people come “The goal was to bring opened up the café, which to touch and see, and that’s on a regular basis. You can the joy of board games to featured a library of 1,500 one of the reasons why we buy a day pass to play the the general public. Everyboard games along with a see it’s improving overall games or there is a monthly body played board games coffee shop. health.” and annual membership.” growing up, and we knew Over the last nine years, Spielbound offers difThe benefits of being a there were a lot more and Spielbound have had the ferent programs which member includes access to wider variety of games chance to open the eyes of includes Education, Stay the entire library of board available that weren’t quite people who want to give Sharp, Spielmasons and games, 10% discount on rein the general public psyche, a board game a try, while Everyone Plays, which tail board games and prioryet,” Michaud said. “It was bringing family and friends also includes the library of ity for special events. games they have to offer. The different member“Education is about all ships include the Individual of the research shown, Monthly Membership, Famwhich kids are more likely ily Monthly Membership, to learn. Spielmasons, are Individual Year Membership for those to create and test and the Family Year Memnew games, and work on bership. the art of new games. We The idea of bringing a have Everybody Plays, board game café to Omaha which is teaching the pubseemed a little impossible, E a s t e r n N e b r a s k a O f f i c e o n A g i n g lic about how to play these but nine years later, Spielnewer games,” Michaud bound has found a stable said. “Stay Sharp focuses place. on accessibility and elder “When we first opened, population. Older adults we were excited and inhave the greatest health spired, but we weren’t benefit that comes from sure if it was going to board game play, which rework because most board ally opened our eyes in this game cafés that existed area. We want to make sure were in cities much larger If so, people are able to play. The than Omaha. We grew and at the the fifth program is the library, then the pandemic almost which is the largest playable destroyed us, but we feel Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging is here to help! game library in the country. fortunate to be able to have ENOA’s trained Care Managers can help guide you in finding the It holds well over 3,300 survived,” Michaud said. unique titles and over 5,000 “We want to build that comservices and resources you want and need to safely remain board games total, all avail- munity again – it makes me in your home as long as possible! able for people to play.” happy to see people come Each program brings in a together to express that they ka Offic bras e Ne different age group, which had a great time. It makes Call us at: is also important when it me feel like it was worth it comes to the memberships every time.” Spielbound has to offer. To learn more about old • er 74 adul “We see grandparents and Spielbound and Spielbound 9 1 ts since Ask for “Information and Assistance” grandchildren, parents and Board Game Cafe, visit for more details about Care Management services. their kids. Everyone comes their websites at spielbound. to play games. We want to org and spielbound.com.
Care Management Services There’s no place like home! Are you age 60 or older and feeling like you might need some help?
•
• Easte
en oa. org
ng •
New Horizons
A gi
•
on
Page 16
ing Serv
We are here 402-444-6536 to help!
rn
Care Management Program
ENOA
November 2023