New Horizons October 2023

New Horizons

Stories Coffee Company makes meaningful, local contributions

By Ron Petersen

Over the last several years, Stories Coffee Company made a name for itself despite opening up its first coffee shop during a pandemic.

In the beginning it was not only important to bring in business through their doors, but they made a major effort in making an impact in the community.

“It’s all about giving back,” Stories Coffee Company owner, Dan Loutzenhiser said. “It’s super important and it’s why we exist.”

In 2017, Dan and Brooke Loutzenhiser purchased the name from Stories Coffee House, and three years later, they opened its first location on 114th and Davenport St.

“We were one of the few coffee shops that were letting people come back in 2020,” Loutzenhiser said. “It brought in a lot of people in that might not have been able to find us. Long-term it brought in a lot of exposure because of the situation.”

Not only do the people at Stories Coffee Company have a passion

for coffee, but they have created a space and a platform that the community can benefit from.

Each quarter Stories Coffee Com-

Benefiting from Tai Chi

of older adults without worsening existing impairments. Learn about Tai Chi on Page 16.

pany gives a portion of their sales to a local, non-profit organization, which is something they started from the beginning.

“We wanted to do something cool for local nonprofits,” Loutzenhiser said. “We also wanted to create a space, community where people can gather.”

Along with supporting nonprofits, Stories Coffee Company has been connected through family ties.

Jim Loutzenhiser, Dan’s father, has roasted coffee for about 15 years and has also been the head roaster for Stories Coffee Company.

“He’s killing it — it’s been fun to be able to grow this coffee company with him,” Dan said about Jim. “It’s fun to be able to do something together.”

In addition to serving their own roasted specialty coffee, at many of their locations they serve tea, smoothies, local craft beer, wine by the glass and bottle, craft cocktails and made to order food prepared in their kitchens.

Over the last three years, Stories Coffee Company has opened up a few more locations including one at Midtown Crossing, Lifegate on

--Stories continued on page 8.

ENOA hosts 7th annual ‘Step Out For Seniors Walk-A-Thon’

By Ron Petersen

Older adults from around the area gathered with their family, friends and caregivers for the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging (ENOA) Step Out For Seniors Walk-a-thon at Benson Park on September 8.

The Step Out For Seniors Walka-thon is a fundraiser to help update programming and services at the 21 senior centers in the Eastern Nebraska area.

“Overall, it went really well,” said Christina Ochoa, ENOA nutrition program assistant. “We had about 100 people that came in waves. I was very happy with it, and it went very smooth.”

Over the last couple of years, the Step Out For Seniors Walk-a-thon have been growing in numbers, including with more participants from senior centers. It also, helped that this year the Step Out For Seniors Walk-a- was on a beautiful day in Nebraska.

“We had more centers come this year than in the past, which was nice. It would be nice if we build that up and bring more centers in,” Ochoa said. “People came up to me and said they had a good time, and the weather was amazing.”

Along with the walk around the park, there were other activities planned for those in attendance including a line dancing demonstration put on by Lori Adams and the Silver Steppers from the Fremont Friendship Center, followed by a Tai Chi demonstration.

Throughout the morning older adults had a chance to get massages in the pavilion, play with dogs from the Nebraska Humane Society and purchase food from the Whispering Roots/The Big Garden farm stand.

“The farm stand was a great addition we had last year, and were able to come back this year,” Ochoa said. “There were a couple of farmers there that sold some of their food --Walk-A-Thon continued on page 9.

Tai Chi is a slow and gentle exercise that is suitable for older adults. It offers the benefits of flexibility, muscle strengthening, and endurance training. Tai Chi can improve the health

COURTESY PHOTO

Medicare Annual Open Enrollment Period: What do I need to know?

By Mike Carsey Volunteers Assisting

Seniors

Each year 60 million Medicare beneficiaries can take advantage of the Medicare Annual Open Enrollment Period to review their Medicare Advantage plans or Medicare Part D drug plans. The open enrollment period begins October 15 and ends December 7.

Medicare beneficiaries often have many questions about the Annual Open Enrollment Period. Here are the most frequently asked questions, accompanied by answers.

WHAT PLAN CHANGES CAN I MAKE DURING THIS PERIOD?

• Switch from one Medicare Advantage plan to another Medicare Advantage plan.

• Switch from one Medicare Part D prescription drug plan to another Medicare Part D prescription drug plan.

• Enroll in a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan if you did not enroll when you were first eligible for Medicare. If you have not maintained other creditable coverage, a lateenrollment penalty may apply.

• If you are enrolled in Medicare A and B, you can enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan.

HOW CAN I GET FREE, UNBIASED HELP IN EVALUATING MY PLAN? IT SEEMS LIKE SOMEONE IS ALWAYS TRYING TO SELL ME SOMETHING?

During the Open Enrollment Period, Volunteers Assisting Seniors will provide in office in person counseling opportunities, in person events at various locations in the metro area, and phone counseling appointments to assist you in reviewing your plan.

Volunteers Assisting Seniors counselors are certified counselors providing free, unbiased help to Medicare beneficiaries. Counselors are trained and certified by SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program) which is part of the Nebraska Department of Insurance.

Volunteers Assisting Seniors counselors are

volunteers, not insurance agents and do not sell insurance products.

WHAT TYPE OF NOTICES DO I RECEIVE FROM MY PLAN?

If you are currently enrolled in a Medicare Part D drug plan or a Medicare Advantage plan, in September you received a document from the plan called the Annual Notice of Change. This document lists, side by side, the changes in your plan from 2023 to 2024.

Volunteers Assisting Seniors recommends that you use this document as a reminder to contact our office for an appointment if you would like help with your review.

WHAT IF I DO NOTHING? WHAT HAPPENS TO MY MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLAN OR MY MEDICARE PART D DRUG PLAN?

If you do nothing, your current plan will roll over automatically for 2024. No action on your part is required. The effective date for your plan will be January 1, 2024.

IF I HAVE A MEDICARE PART D DRUG PLAN, WHY SHOULD I REVIEW IT WITH VOLUNTEERS ASSISTING SENIORS?

SHIP certified counselors can assist in reviewing your plan and help you determine whether your plan is the best option in 2024. The three most common reasons for beneficiaries making a change in plans are:

1. That there will be changes in prices to the medications you take in 2024.

2. That there will be an increase in the premium in your current plan in 2024.

3. That you have discontinued medications or added new medications during 2023.

Volunteers Assisting Seniors assists approximately 1400

people each year and the cumulative savings for those beneficiaries is about $1 million.

IF I HAVE A MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLAN, WHY SHOULD I REVIEW IT WITH VOLUNTEERS ASSISTING SENIORS?

Medicare Advantage plans combine Medicare Part A, B and usually Part D coverage in one plan. The plans can also offer services not typically covered by Medicare such as hearing, vision, and dental services. There are two basic components to a Medicare Advantage plan: health and medication. When you partner with Volunteers Assisting Seniors certified counselors, we help you determine a plan with the broadest possible network of providers, including the providers you currently use, and the least expensive medication option, all in one plan.

The purpose of the Annual Open Enrollment Period is to allow you to review your plan to be sure it is the best plan for you during the following year.

WHEN BENEFICIARIES ATTEMPT TO REVIEW MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLANS BY THEMSELVES, WHAT IS THE MOST COMMON MISTAKE MADE?

Often beneficiaries are persuaded to change plans because of information seen on TV ads or received in the mail promoting gym memberships, transportation, and other non-direct health related benefits. Beneficiaries who change plans for these reasons often do not consider the impact of a plan change on their medication costs or their provider networks. While these extra benefits can be important factors, the counselors at Volunteers

--Medicare continued on page 3.

Commercials, phone calls, mailings and more, oh my

Have you seen those commercials from actors (or an ex-football player that used to pose in pantyhose) telling you to call right now to make sure you’re not missing any benefits? Have you received a phone call from someone claiming they’re from Medicare? Have enough mail to cover up Dorothy’s yellow brick road?

The most important part of being a Medicare beneficiary is making sure that you are covering the gaps in original Medicare, based on your medical and financial situation. Make sure that you understand the differences and associated costs between the two options for coverage: Medicare Supplement/Medigap + Drug Plan (Part D) + Dental Plan + Vision Plan

2) Medicare Advantage (Part C).

Here are three questions I get asked the most regarding these commercials and phone calls:

Q: Am I missing out on extra benefits?

A: Original Medicare does not offer extra benefits like some Medicare Advantage plans. Some have extra benefits for those that financially qualify. Some have benefits to help people with chronic health conditions. Some Medicare Advantage plans may also offer extra benefits for plan members after a hospital or skilled nursing facility stay without limiting that benefit to people with chronic conditions. (See CMS Your Medicare Benefits.)

Q: Do I need Part C?

A: Medicare Advantage plans are also

known as Part C. You cannot have both a Medicare Supplement/Medigap plan and a Drug Plan (Part D) and a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C).

Q: I got a phone call from Medicare/ Social Security/My Pharmacy. What do I do now?

A: Anytime someone claims they’re from Medicare or Social Security, it’s a scam. Never give out your Medicare number or Social Security number to them. If you get a phone call saying it’s your pharmacy, tell them that you’ll call them back and then look the number up and call.

If you are being harassed by phone calls, there are some things that you can do to fight back. First, file your phone number on www.donotcall.gov and second, report the phone calls.

Each time someone calls you after your number is registered, they can receive a $10,000 fine from the Federal Communications Commission, even if they’re calling from overseas.

Regarding those commercials, please be advised that if you call that 800 number, you might be giving multiple call centers permission to contact you, and your registration in www.donotcall.gov will not apply.

Mary Hiatt is President of Mary the Medicare Lady (A non-government entity.) See www.hiattagency.com or email mary@ hiattagency.com or call or text 402-6729449 for more information.

Bennington schools, the Nebraska Wind Symphony present: ‘A Spooky Gathering’

The Nebraska Wind Symphony open its 47th season with a special collaboration with the students at Bennington Middle School and Bennington South Middle School, directed by Landon Barada, member of the NWS. The concert will be held at Bennington High School on October 15 at 3 p.m.

The program has a Halloween theme in appreciation of the season. The combined Bennington Middle and Bennington South Middle school bands will perform Thrill Ride by Brian Balmages; the always whimsical Hedwig’s

Theme by John Williams; Night Fury by Carol Britten Chambers; and finally rock it with Dr. Rockenstein by Steve Hodges.

The Nebraska Wind Symphony will join the combined Bennington bands to perform Dreamsong by Richard Saucedo, which will feature piano soloist Jan Braden, accompanist at Bennington High School, followed by the Nebraska premiere of Dance Of The Shadows by Adrian Sims. Both Mr. Barada and Mr. Ben Coatney (director of bands at Bennington High School) will be guest conductors.

Medicare continued from page 2.

Assisting Seniors can help you sort through the details of plan benefits prioritizing the network of providers you need and the cost of the medications you take.

WHAT IF I HAVE A MEDICARE SUPPLEMENT PLAN, DO I NEED TO CONTACT THE PLAN TO RENEW MY COVERAGE FOR MY HEALTHCARE?

No, Medicare Supplement plans are not affected by the open enrollment period. If you continue to pay the premium for the supplement plan, the coverage remains in effect. You do not have to contact your plan.

The Nebraska Wind Symphony will finish the concert with selections from the following: The delightful Noisy Wheels of Joy by Eric Whitacre; Ghost Apparatus by David Biedenbender; Hung Aloft the Night by Anthony O’Toole, conducted by Keith Davis; Gadget by Randall Standridge, conducted by Landon Barada; Nobles of the Mystic Shrine by John Philip Sousa; and Peer Gynt Suite by Edvard Grieg.

Visit the Nebraska Wind Symphony website: https:// nebraskawindsymphony. com/ for more information and tickets.

The Medicare Annual Open Enrollment Period is the most important time of year for Medicare beneficiaries. For most beneficiaries, it is the only time of year you can review your Part D drug plan or Medicare Advantage plan and make changes. Beneficiaries should consider taking full advantage of this opportunity to review their plans.

Volunteers Assisting Seniors 402-4446617. 1941 South 42nd Street, Suite 312 Omaha, Ne. 68105 (The old Center Mall on the corner of 42nd and Center) www.vasnebraska.org

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.

Aging with Spirit Foundation allows many different ways to give to ENOA

By Diane Stanton

The Aging with Spirit Foundation was recently developed as a 501(c)3 tax exempt foundation that supports programs and services offered by the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging (ENOA). As the demand for services grows and the aging population increases, the needs of those served by ENOA exceed current resources. The newly founded 501(c)3 has been able to engage in fundraising events and apply for additional grants that benefit clients and the agency.

Meals on Wheels America is the leadership organization that supports more than 5,000 community-based programs across the country

and is dedicated to addressing senior hunger and isolation. Through partnerships between Meals on Wheels America and national brands, and providing unique grant opportunities, the Meals on Wheels program supports local organizations. Currently ENOA participates in two Meals on Wheels annual events and has received one national grant through the organization.

Jiffy Lube’s Drive To Do More initiative is a collaborative event between Meals on Wheels America and Jiffy Lube. Individuals who take their vehicles into any Jiffy Lube during the month of October will have the opportunity to donate $3 at

Want to stay home, but can’t do it alone?

checkout. 100% of the funds raised in the Omaha area will be donated to ENOA’s Meals on Wheels program. In addition, all Meals on Wheels staff, volunteers and fleet vehicles are eligible for a special offer of 15% off vehicle maintenance services, with some exclusions.

Subaru’s Share the Love event is held every year from mid-November through the end of December. Subaru dealerships in the Omaha area donate $250 for every new vehicle purchased or leased to the customer’s choice of participating charities. Meals on Wheels America then issues checks to the local meals program, based on the amount of donations received by Subaru.

Pawsitive Friendships is a grant that ENOA received through Meals on Wheels America and PetSmart Charities partnership. This grant, which runs through June 7, 2024, is available to individuals who are currently receiving ENOA services or participating in any of ENOA’s programs. Pets provide comfort and companionship to homebound seniors that love them.

According to Meals on Wheels America, research has shown that seniors with pets are less likely to exhibit depression, report feelings of loneliness and experience illness. Taking care of pets can be financially and physically difficult for seniors and often a devoted animal lover with limited access to food will feed their hungry pet before they feed themselves. The Pawsitive Friendship grant can help struggling pet owners with the expenses of pet ownership. Expenses covered include vaccinations, grooming, pet food, licensing and more.

Together A Greater Good (TAGG) is an easy and quick way to support ENOA. TAGG partners with businesses who will give back to organizations anywhere from 1-5% of the total receipt. To participate, visit togetheragreatergood. com and search for participating businesses. Enrolling at TAGG today allows a donor to upload a photo or screenshot of the receipt and select the participating charity they wish to support. TAGG receipts can be submitted via desktop computer, laptop, iPad or tablet or any smartphone. TAGG has a rewards program that allows donors to earn points for reaching milestones (money raised) and more. Points can be redeemed for extra donations, rewards from businesses or TAGG swag.

Business lists are available for the Omaha/Council Bluffs, Lincoln, and Siouxland areas as well as a special list for catering and events planning. Hog Wild Pit Bar-B-Q, Hy-Vee, Runza, Mangia Italiana, Mangelsen’s, and Play It Again Sports are just a few of the hundreds of businesses that participate in TAGG.

Charitable Adult Rides & Services (CARS) is the most recent donation program that ENOA has begun participating in. Vehicle donations are a cost-effective and viable source of revenue for nonprofits. The CARS program allows supporters to donate almost any vehicle to ENOA, running or not – cars, trucks, RVs, boats, and even airplanes. CARS, a nonprofit organization manages vehicle donation programs for thousands of

nonprofits throughout North America. CARS processes over 100,000 vehicles a year and has returned over $170 million to their nonprofit partners.

CARS works with hundreds of auction yards and tow companies to pick up donated vehicles. Revenue is maximized by selling the vehicles through auto auctions. The donor receives a tax receipt and ENOA receives the revenue.

To find out more information about the CARS program, visit www.careasy. com or call (855)-227-1822, seven days a week during regular hours of operation.

Benevity is a company that provides a charitable donation-management program. Benevity works with Fortune 1000 companies from around the globe, making it easy for their employees to participate in charitable gift giving to nonprofits. ENOA has registered as a nonprofit organization through Benevity so any employee who works in a company that offers employees the opportunity to have donations taken out of their checks and automatically sent to the charity of their choice, is able to participate. Human Resource departments have further information as to whether the company has the ability to utilize Benevity as the donation program of their choice.

Thrivent is a financial services organization that provides financial advice, investments, insurance, banking and generosity programs to help people make the most of all they have been given. The Thrivent Choice program helps their clients make a positive impact on causes dear to them. Anyone enrolled in Thrivent can make an online personal donation through the Thrivent Choice catalog. Thrivent covers all processing fees so ENOA receives 100% of the donation. For more information about giving through Thrivent, please contact them at 1-800-8474836.

For more information on contributing to the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging, please contact the Aging with Spirit Foundation at (402) 561-2243 or via email at agingwithspiritfoundation@enoa.com.

Arts program stimulates creativity, companionship at senior centers

By Andy Bradley

Contributing Writer

Seniors reawaken

long-dormant or never discovered artistic ability. Others reconnect with former friends and classmates of long ago –some tenuously reengaging after extended periods of social isolation following the COVID years.

These are some of the actual positive outcomes reported from the Nebraska Arts Council’s Creative Aging Arts Grant Program (CAAP). Nonprofit and faithbased organizations serving seniors are now eligible to apply for state grant funding to support a wide variety of educational arts projects at their locations.

The Nebraska Arts Council makes mini grants of up to $3,000 to hire local teaching artists to provide eight to ten weeks of interactive programs, typically 60-90 minutes each session. Arts include ceramics, visual arts (watercolor, sketching, acrylics and oil painting), print making, dance, theater, storytelling, poetry and more. Classes can be in person or virtual.

CAAP is in its third year, and has sponsored more than 40 projects, according to program coordinator Joshua Brown. About 30 specially trained artists are available statewide, more than half of them in the Omaha area. CAAP has two goals, according to program specialist Anne Alston. The first is to nurture artistic abilities. The second is fostering social connections. “It’s an opportunity for participants to build their skills, to work creatively . . . but then the second important goal is social engagement . . . to provide a safe kind of environment where you do get to know one another.”

Local participating organizations have included Immanuel Communities, Joslyn Castle, Florence Home, Ralston Library, and the Eastern Nebraska Com-

munity Action Partnership (ENCAP). CAAP officials are developing more programming in partnership with the Nebraska Library Commission.

ENCAP’s Senior Wellness Program recently hosted a 10-week ceramics class led by popular local artist Catherine Witt, and a 10-week contemporary dance class, led by Ruth Hahn. The sessions culminated in an art show and dance recital.

The artists are trained to adapt to particular needs, physical abilities and learning requirements of seniors.

Artist training and consulting is provided through Lifetime Arts, a national leader in creative aging programs and services.

“One of the things that was special is that we do have some seniors with arthritis in their hands and they were worried about doing anything with their hands,” said Cat Pittman, who supervises physical fitness programs for ENCAP.

“Catherine would be very good in teaching them what they can do. A lot of them were very surprised that they were able to create something, even though they did have those issues.”

Accommodations were also provided in the dance class by using chairs for persons with mobility issues.

The Arts Council accepts and reviews residency applications year-round, but they must be submitted at least six weeks before the intended start date. The process is relatively painless and straightforward.

ENCAP’s Pittman said the process “was so easy I could do it.”

Brown said the Arts Council tries to make the online process short and streamlined. Start and completion dates, learning objectives, class hours, location, numbers served, and other basic information is collected. “It’s simpler than almost any other grant process you can go through.”

“We ask them who’s going to carry this out, and who are you going to reach. They’re not extensive narratives,” explained Alston. “Organizations can contact us in advance and talk through what they want to do so that we can make sure that it does fit and that it will be successful before they apply,” said Alston.

ENCAP’s Deputy Direc-

tor, Jill Connor, said endof-project evaluations are required, but the reporting is simple – the number of persons attending, classes offered and other basic outcomes.

ENCAP’s Senior Wellness Program participants enjoyed their classes so much that the organization intends to reapply for funding, this time for a class in African art and dance.

Nebraska Arts Council funds the entire cost of the projects, including artist fees, supplies, and travel. Hosting agencies have no matching fund requirements. Support funding is provided through the Vitality Arts Program of E.A. Michelson Philanthropy, Minneapolis, Minn., as well as the State of Nebraska. Information about the program, available artists, and the application process is available at artscouncil. nebraska.gov. For questions or technical assistance, email nac.grants@nebraska. gov., or call Anne Alston at 402-595-2196.

La Vista Senior Center

You’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 402-331-3455.

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.

Brown

Alston

Please see the ad on page 3

Thank you to the New Horizons Club members

$20 Holly Nolan

$10

Tim Potter

John Larson

Edmund Leslie

Tracey Mason

Theresa Lee

Tom Hunter

$5

Burdie Wiens

Kathleen Koons

Falls City Library & Arts Center

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:

• October 6: Medicare Presentation @ 11:45 a.m.

• October 11: Mini Health Fair @ 10 a.m.

• October 13: Pet Picture Contest

• October 13: Book Club @ 12:30 p.m.

• October 17: Pet Picture Winner Announced @ 12:30 p.m.

• October 18: “Craft Day “Making DecoMesh Pumpkins” @ 12:30 p.m.

• October 19: Jackpot Bingo @ 12:15 p.m.

• October 20: Sam Tomasello performs from Merrymakers @ 11:45 a.m.

• October 21: Open Enrollment @ 10 a.m.

• October 24: Presentation-Always Home Supportive Living @ 11:45 a.m.

• October 27: Halloween Party @ 12:00 p.m.

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.

City of Fremont Transportation

The City of Fremont started a new transportation program.

Rides started commencing on September 7, while scheduling of rides started the week of August 28.

The cost of a ride at point is $2 per ride, but the first 2 months will be free.

For more information contact the City of Fremont coordinator, Dakota, at 402-459-2845, and he can field any questions or calls as they get up and running.

Omaha Postcard & Paper Show

Featuring dealers in postcards, paper memorabilia, books, and other historical items.

Friday, October 13, 2023 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Saturday, October 14, 2023 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Westside Community Conference Center

3534 So. 108th St., Omaha, Nebraska FREE ADMISSION

For more information call 402-592-3959 or email: omahapostcards @gmail.com

7 must ask questions if you’re considering selling your house

If you’re thinking about selling your house and downsizing or moving to senior living, I want to provide a few questions that you probably are or should be asking yourself.

Q: Is my house sellable “as is” or will I need to do any repairs or updating?

If your house hasn’t been updated in the last 7 to 10 years or so, most buyers will be expecting updates to be made before they are willing to consider the house. And, if they are willing to consider buying the house “as is,” their offer will certainly take into account an amount to bring it up to its potential value.

Current market conditions will determine if buyers are willing to buy a house that needs repairs and updating or will make more demands and negotiate more on these items.

Q: My house has a lot of “stuff” in it that I don’t want. What are my options?

A typical buyer will expect that your house is clean and move in ready or close to move in ready. Some home owners will hire companies such as estate sale companies or move managers to help sort through things, sell or donate items, and discard items that you no longer need or want.

Q: Who pays Closing Costs when I sell my house?

Closing costs are traditionally divided between the buyer and seller. However, buyers typically ask the seller to pay for some or all of their closing costs

including the buyer’s loan costs and fees, along with a one-year home warranty. These are negotiable, but if the buyer’s requests are not met, some will just move on to the next house on the market to see if another seller is more motivated to sell.

Q: When do I need to be out of my house when I sell?

Typically, when a house is sold, the buyer wants possession of the house the same day. This can create an inconvenience if a seller wants to make sure their house is sold before moving or even looking for a new place to move to. Sometimes a seller needs funds from the sale of their house to move or purchase a new residence. This can certainly be an issue when moving to senior living.

Q: How do I know if a potential buyer can actually get financing to buy my house?

Having a buyer that can actually get financing and close in a timely manner can be a challenge. Almost all home purchase agreements have a contingency based on a buyer getting financing with a particular rate and terms.

Even so called “cash buyers” often turn out to be no real buyer at all. “Wholesalers” (fake home buyers) will tell you that they can buy your house, but have no intent or ability to actually buy your house. After these individuals or companies get a contract to buy a house, they will shop that contract to try to find a “real” buyer that actually has the funds to close and buy the house.

Q: What if the house I want to sell is part of an estate, probate, or Medicaid related?

In situations like these,

the house can still be sold. Although, there may be legal items that need to be taken care of before the sale can be completed.

Q: Is using a real estate agent the best way to sell a house?

Listing a home with a real estate on the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) and having the house exposed to the market is oftentimes a good solution. However, there are a number of items to consider:

• Do I want to make repairs or updates to my house to be competitive on the market?

• Do I want to keep the house in show ready condition and be prepared for agents to call at any time of the day with potential buyers, that may or may not be serious about buying?

• Am I prepared for the “net” amount from the sale of the house to be much less than what the agent originally tells me it will be? You need to know the difference of “gross” vs. “net” in regards to what you will receive from the sale of your house.

• If a potential buyer makes an offer on my house, am I prepared for further negotiations and demands after a whole house inspection and appraisal is conducted?

Selling a house and downsizing may seem overwhelming, but the right resources can make it much less stressful.

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.

Fake Facebook support pages

Facebook pages are typically used by organizations and public figures to connect with their community. Anyone can make a Facebook page, even cybercriminals. Using social media, cybercriminals spoof brands and organizations to trick people into trusting them. In this recent scam, cybercriminals use real Facebook pages to impersonate Facebook itself.

The scam starts with a fake email that looks like it’s from Facebook.

The email states that your account has been deactivated and will be deleted in 48 hours unless you click a link. If you click

the link, you’re taken to a real Facebook post from a page named “Page Support” that uses the Facebook logo. The post directs you to click another suspicious link that takes you to a fake login page. If you enter your login credentials, you’ll give cybercriminals access to your Facebook profile and the ability to scam your friends and family.

Don’t be fooled. Follow the tip below to stay safe from similar scams:

• Watch out for a sense of urgency in emails. Phishing attacks rely on impulsive actions, so always think before you click.

Souchek

Prevent injury: Lift properly

One out of every four work injuries results from improper handling of materials. The trouble is that many of those who are injured get hurt because they lift, push and pull when it’s not a part of their job.

Whether it’s part of your job or not, sooner or later you’re going to lift something, so you may as well do it right.

First…look at what you’re lifting. If the load has sharp edges, slivers, protruding nails or is slippery, you should know about it before you hold it in your hands. Find out how heavy it is. Check the footing to be sure that the floor is clear. Now you’re ready to lift. Bend your knees, keep your feet apart, get a good grip. Lift by straightening your legs with your back vertical, so that your strong leg muscles do all the work.

When you carry a load, watch where you’re going.

To lift a load shoulder high or above your head:

• Sacked materials should be grasped by diagonal corners and swung to the shoulder with a boost from the knee.

• Drums or barrels should be rolled with

your hands against the sides.

Take a long hard look at a load before you lift it.

If it’s too heavy or bulky, get someone to help you. It’s quicker, easier, and safer. Long objects, regardless of weight, should be carried by two or more persons when possible, walking in step.

If you get help before you try to lift, you will not need help afterward.

Beware when you’ve been away: Even if you’re a rugged, seasoned lifter, remember that muscles quickly get out of shape during your vacation, so be extra careful those first few days back on the job, ease into it gradually.

Whatever conveyors, hand and lift trucks, other mechanical handling equipment can do the job, let it take the strain and spare your spine.

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.

The power of music and how it can shape society Conscious Aging

A dear friend of mine, who plays piano by ear beautifully, volunteers at local senior living centers to entertain the residents. She shares the delight she experiences as elderly persons brighten up when they hear her play. Some who sit in their wheelchairs in a nearly comatose state lift their heads, smile and keep time with the music. The old songs she chooses connect with their memories and they come alive.

My own father, who in his nineties was losing his memory, could still sing all the lyrics of tunes he had sung throughout his life. The same was true of a friend who suffered early onset Alzheimer’s. When she could no longer speak, she could still sing. There is a scientific explanation for how music stimulates the brain. When researchers use an MRI to track brain activity, they see that music engages a response throughout various lobes of the brain. Playing an instrument or listening to music stimulates neuropathways throughout our brains. As a result of all this stimulation, the benefits to the brain are multiple. Music strengthens learning, memory and cognition. It boosts creativity. Music helps us regulate our mood. It reduces stress, relieves anxiety, eases depression and increases motivation.

By Nancy Hemesath

For all these reasons, music facilitates our brains to age gracefully.

This research suggests that we would do well to get a healthy portion of music in a daily brain diet. This research does not dictate what kind of music is most beneficial. That would depend more on personal taste and preferences. I like many kinds of music, but I am relatively certain that heavy metal would not produce the benefits l want. I recognize that this may not be true of younger generations.

Currently my favorite musical exposure is from the Omaha Symphony Orchestra. We have season tickets to Masterworks, programs that bring us so much enjoyment. I always leave these concerts feeling uplifted and joyous. Without effort on my part, my brain has had a lovely workout.

My musical taste is not exclusively classical. I enjoy musical programs on the Public Broadcasting System (PBS or Nebraska Public Media) which feature decades and/or artists from previous eras. My favorites are folk groups from the 60’s and 70’s. I like musicians like John Denver, Peter, Paul and Mary,

Millard Senior Center

You’re invited to visit the Millard Senior Center at Montclair, 2304 S. 135th Ave., this month for the following:

• October 4: Board Meeting @ 9:30 a.m.

• October 9: THEOS (To Help Each Other Socially) @ 12:30 p.m.

• October 11: Making sundresses and shorts to be sent to Haiti and to the Orphan Grain Train @ 10 a.m.

• October 12: Name That Tune! @ 10 a.m.

• October 18: P.A.W.S (Puzzels & Words with Seniors) @ 10 a.m.

• October 23: Book Club, “Demon Copperhead” by Barbara Kingsolver @ 1 p.m.

• October 25: Open Enrollment with Medicare starts, Toni with state officials who will be signing people up @ 9 a.m.

• October 27: Harvest Festival! Costume party and themed lunch

• October 31: Making fall flower arrangements @ 9:30 a.m.

Tai Chi on Mondays and Fridays @ 9:30 a.m.

Beginners Spanish on Mondays and @ 10:15 a.m.

MahJongg Wednesdays @ 1 p.m.

Chair Volleyball Thursdays @ 9:30 a.m.

Dominoes Thursdays @ 12:30 p.m.

For more information, please call 402-546-1270.

Dionne Warwick, James Taylor to name a few. I have also come to enjoy country singers like Johnny Cash, Loretta Lyn, Willie Nelson, and Patsy Cline.

It doesn’t matter what kind of music we listen to because the brain responds to all the music we enjoy. Those who play an instrument also get increased benefits. (Too bad I gave up the piano in high school.)

As elders we are bombarded with ads that tell us how to improve our brain health. It is good to know there is of source of increased brain stimulation that is free and much more enjoyable than taking a supplement. If we already listen to music regularly, let’s keep it up. If not, it may be time to search out a favorite radio station and turn it on daily. Now I am going to turn on my favorite new composer, Carrie Newcomer. Try Googling her. You may just love her music!

(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.)

Stories Coffee Company’s purpose is to create a welcoming, energetic space for the community to gather. They do this by creating an experience centered around our customers - focusing on high quality products, a clean and fun environment and a genuine customer experience.

Stories continued from page 1.

150th and Dodge, a location in Gretna and most recently one in Lincoln.

“We’re always looking for expansion opportunities,” Loutzenhiser said. Stories Coffee Company is also looking to hire some older adults to work in the kitchen.

“We’d love to find someone that’s maybe retired but just wants to still remain ‘in the game,’ ” Loutzenhiser said. “May be a win-win given we’d love to have the benefit of some mature, experienced people. We are expanding as a business and would love to hire on experienced bakers or cooks - even if they are post retirement

or haven’t worked in a while. It would just be a day or two a week.

Not only are they looking to continue to expand, but Stories Coffee Company is also always looking for more ways to assist where they can.

“It’s to impact the world we are in. It’s cool to be able to meet these nonprofits because we learn about their story, and we figure out how we can help,” Loutzenhiser said. “We’re looking for ideas to benefit the community. That’s why we exist. We want to be a business that’s succesful and sustainable, but it’s great to be able to bring a business that is a part of the community.”

Fremont Friendship Center

You’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:

• October 3: Health Presentation from Fremont Wellness and Therapy @ 10:30 a.m.

• October 4: Merry Maker’s Presents Andre’ Jones @ 10:30 a.m.

• October 5: Health Presentation from Nye Home Health @ 10 a.m.

• October 10: Flu Shots with Three Rivers @ 9:30 a.m.

• October 11: Special Music with The Links @ 10 a.m.

• October 12: Library Book Mobile@ 9:30 a.m.

• October 12: Sing-a-long with Jeanne @ 10 a.m.

• October 17: Casino Trip to Blackburn Casino in Onawa, Iowa

• October 18: Special Music with Bill Chrastil @ 10 a.m.

• October 19: Center News @ 10 a.m.

• October 25: Special Music with Tim Javorsky @ 10:30 a.m.

• October 26: Methodist Hospital Presentation @ 10 a.m.

• October 30: Funny Money Auction @ 11 a.m.

• October 31: Dress Up for Halloween for fun, bingo, and snacks for the Halloween Party @ 10:15 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 reserve 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.

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.

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 adult, 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.

COURTESY PHOTO

Events happening at AARP NE Information Center in October

By Tony Harris AARP NE Information Center

It is certainly starting to look and feel like fall.

In October, the AARP Nebraska Information Center will be hosting an Omaha Advocacy Committee Meeting on Thursday, October 5. The meeting will run from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Advocacy is a significant role for AARP as we work carefully on both federal Legislature and support legislation that is useful and important to older adults.

Also in October, the Information Center will be hosting a presentation on, “The Joy of Work and Interaction After Retirement.”

The Step Out For Seniors Walk-a-thon had plenty of entertainment including a line dancing demonstration put on my Lori Adams and the Silver Steppers from the Fremont Friendship Center, massages in the Pavillion, a Tai Chi demonstration along with a walk in the park.

Walk-A-Thon continued from page 1.

items and there was a mobile kitchen that had a few samples as well.”

A few senior centers were in attendance this year including those from the Fremont Friendship Center, Intercultural Senior Center, Camelot Friendship Center, Notre

Dame Housing and a group from United Methodist Church. Ochoa was happy with the turnout, but she hopes even more will attend next year’s walk-a-thon.

“We always encourage senior centers to come every year because this event is for them,” Ochoa said.

The presenter will be Dr. Lyn Holley, professor Gerontology at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. The presentation will begin at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, October 18. You do not need to be a member of AARP in order to attend this presentation.

Late in October, the Infor-

mation Center will host an AARP Driver Safety Class. The class will be held on Thursday, October 26. For non-members the cost is only $25.00. The class runs for four hours from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

To register for this and other AARP Nebraska programs, please visit aarp.org/ neevents.

The AARP NE Information Center continues to offer a lending library. There are books of all kinds, hardback and paperback. They will lend a book or two and only ask that you return them to the Information Center.

AARP is also training volunteers to make presentations on the very important subject of fraud.

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.

Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging hosted its 7th annual Step Out For Seniors Walk-a-thon in September at Benson Park.

NEW HORIZONS PHOTOS

NEW HORIZONS PHOTO

Nebraska Caregiver Coalition announces presentation of 2023 Educational Webinar Series for the Family Caregiver

The Nebraska Caregiver Coalition is pleased to announce the third presentation for 2023 from the series of four virtual workshops, designed to provide training, education, support, and resources for family caregivers.

The upcoming

educational workshop is titled, “Bringing the Peace and Comfort of Music to Those Journeying Through Hospice Care” presented by the Eastridge Hospice Singers. The presentation will be held via Zoom on Thursday, November 2 at 1:30 p.m.

Jiffy Lube partners with Meals on Wheels for fundraising campaign

For the entire month of October, Jiffy Lube will host an in-store customer fundraising campaign to benefit Meals on Wheels.

Customers will be invited to donate $3 when they check-out at any of the Jiffy Lube stores in the Omaha area.

Meals on Wheels

America will distribute 75% of the funds raised back to the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging’s Meals on Wheels program.

The Eastridge Hospice Singers is a group of hospice-trained musicians whose mission is to bring the peace and comfort of music to those in hospice care.

To register for the event, please visit: https://go.unl. edu/caregivers. There is

no cost to attend any of these sessions, however registration is required.

The Nebraska Caregiver Coalition focuses on the needs and interests of caregivers of all backgrounds. Its goal is to develop and implement

a statewide caregiver awareness program for State Senators, plan and implement statewide grassroots engagement, and identify resources and partnerships to develop and coordinate Nebraska Caregiver Coalition activities.

Once you learn about something, you own it

What do you do if you have a great home with accessible features in a town that you’ve lived in for years and your family moves to another State?

You might choose to do what Dante and Dorreen Borja did. You can sell that house and follow your family. You can also take the knowledge about accessibility that worked for you and use it to make your new home very easy to live in.

Moving to Omaha wasn’t in their plans for retirement. Dante and Dorreen were comfortable in Nevada. Their son had married a woman who was from Omaha and they had settled close to Dante and Dorreen. Then their son and daughter in law, along with Dante and Dorreen’s grandchildren moved to Omaha a few years ago. Dorreen said that they looked at each other and asked, “What are we going to do?” They chose to follow their family.

When they first moved to Omaha, they chose to rent an apartment in a 55 plus community. They wanted some time to get used to the area before making a commitment on another house.

“We needed to get the lay of the land”, said Dorreen. She said that there were some very positive things about living in the 55 plus community. There were nice amenities and events which made it easy to meet people.

They didn’t have to worry about maneuvering space in the apartment or adaptations like tall toilets. They were able to use Dante’s tub transfer bench they brought with them.

They discovered that they weren’t ready to give up the space and privacy of a single family home though. One day they saw an ad for some Villas located about 5 minutes from their son’s new home. The Villa’s were single story and the Homeowner’s Association (HOA) fees included exterior maintenance, yard care, and snow removal.

When they saw the model of the home, they were attracted to the open feeling. It has wide doors and hallways. The Villas are not designed specifically for seniors, but Dorreen pointed out that many of her new neighbors are also retirees.

They knew before they moved in that they would need to add a few accessible features to make the home work for them. Fortunately, they had experience from their home in Reno, and some local resources they’d found out about while living in the 55 plus apartment.

Dante’s tub transfer bench fit in their new bathroom. A tub transfer bench is a rectangular bench that has a portion of the seat extending past the edge of the tub. This allows a person to sit on the bench and then pivot their legs over the side of the tub instead of standing on one leg while stepping in and out of the tub. It also provides a seated shower in a standard tub or shower. Dorreen had 101 Mobility add grab bars and a handheld shower.

They planned to use the

Phillips

PHILLIPS PHOTO

Dorreen Borja demonstrates the deeper step.

--Borja continued on page 11.

Fremont Friendship Center hosts Nye Health Services for friendly volleyball match

NEW HORIZONS PHOTOS

The Fremont Friendship Centerr, located on 1730 W 16th St. in Fremont, welcomed 3819 X St., welcomed those from Nye Health Services for a friendly volleyball match. There was plenty of smiles, cheers and laughter as the ball was hit back and forth, on a wonderful Friday morning.

door from the garage as their primary entrance. The rise or the height from the floor to the door sill was just a little higher than the maximum allowed height for one step so the distance was halved, making two rises only about 6” high which was helpful. The width of the step, even though it was building code compliant remained a problem though. Dorreen demonstrated the width of the original step was just a little longer than her foot. It made getting in and out while helping Dante or holding groceries challenging.

There are many ways to increase safety around steps. Dorreen had 101 mobility install some economical grab bars and extend the depth of the step. If either Dante or Dorreen ever need to use a walker, the step could be made even deeper so that the walker could securely sit on the single wide step when moving in and out of the house. Homeowners can add more support than is required by building

code.

As she described the final items that were needed, Dorreen could only shake her head in amazement. For years they had been using tall toilets based on the recommendation of an Occupational Therapist in Nevada. It is easier to sit down with control and to get up with less effort on toilets that position your hips at the same height or a little higher than your knees when you are sitting.

The seat height measurement of 17-19” from the American’s with Disability Act Accessibility

Guidelines is not part of most building codes for single family residences. Their builder wouldn’t change out tall toilets for short toilets when building the home. Some builders in Omaha would be able to make that change. It depends on their policies for design and change orders.

So one of the very first improvements they made was replacing the brand new toilets with tall ones. Dorreen said, “If you are used to them and then you accidently sit on a short

one in a restaurant or something, you really feel the difference!”

Dorreen walks in the neighborhood and the other day she saw two toilets out on the curb in front of a new house.

She said, “Aha! Someone else is getting rid of their silly short toilets.” It may not take a lot of money or effort to make a home more accessible if the pathways and doors are all built wide enough. This couple had also identified the home maintenance chores they needed to eliminate in order to live in a single family home. When the opportunity for this Villa arose, they were able to make the choice very quickly, knowing they could add the small details they needed. Once you learn something about accessibility and your abilities you can use the information anywhere.

If you have a success story to share or want information about solutions mentioned in this article, feel free to reach BevVan Phillips at bphillipsotr@ gmail.com.

This Month’s Crossword Puzzle

Borja continued from page 10.

Vaccine coadministration versus vaccine spacing

By Anastasia Mustoe, Pharm.D Candidate May 2024 and David Kohll, Pharm.D

Respiratory season is among us, and it is important to get vaccinated. Adults over 65 years old who have not received any pneumococcal vaccines should get the new Prevnar 20 vaccine and adults over 60 years old may be vaccinated for RSV.

Additionally, flu season is approaching, and new COVID-19 guidelines are in the works. So, you may be wondering, how should I go

about getting vaccinated for all these things? The answer is not the same for everyone.

Some individuals will prefer convenience and do not want to make several trips to the pharmacy to get caught up on all of their vaccines. That is okay.

The CDC has said you may receive a pneumococcal, RSV, influenza, and COVID-19 vaccine at the same visit. It is okay for most individuals to receive multiple vaccinations at once.

If you decide to get all of

SIX IMPORTANT VACCINES:

your vaccines in the same day, when is the best time of the season to get all of these vaccines administered? Typically, it is normal to get the flu vaccine from the end of September through the end of October, as the flu vaccine can lose effectiveness as time goes on and you want to be covered for the duration of the flu season.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) is met to discuss the updates to the COVID-19 guidelines, but for now the COVID vaccine is much like the flu vaccine

in the sense that protection dwindles over time. The RSV vaccine and Prevnar 20 vaccine offer longer protection, so they are okay to get whenever it is most convenient for you. If you are planning on getting all of your vaccines together.

If you do not want to receive several injections at once, you can separate your vaccines out. There are some discussions that receiving all of your vaccines together may slightly reduce your body’s response to the vaccines, but this hasn’t been confirmed in trials.

Additionally, separating your vaccinations out may help reduce the intensity of side effects in comparison to getting all of your vaccines together, but it is important to note it is generally safe to receive multiple vaccinations at the same visit.

Book your appointment now at https://kohllsrx.com/express/

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For individuals that want to separate their vaccinations, the general thought is waiting 1-2 weeks between. It is recommended to start with the RSV and/or pneumococcal vaccines and ending with the COVID-19 and/or influenza vaccines. In general, you could aim for receiving two vaccinations in September and two vaccinations in October.

When it comes to separation of these vaccines, there is not an official recommended amount of time between each vaccine, so you may ultimately separate the vaccinations in a way that is most convenient for you.

These respiratory diseases can be very severe and dangerous, as they can lead to pneumonia, hospitalizations, and even death. The key to staying protected this fall and winter is to get vaccinated against these viruses.

It is worth mentioning that there are monoclonal antibodies FDA approved for children to prevent severe disease from an RSV infection, Beyfortus and Syngais. Beyfortus is recommended for all infants who are younger than 8 months old and are born during or entering their first RSV season and may be recommended for children 8-19 months old at high risk for severe RSV entering their second RSV season. This monoclonal antibody can protect infants for five months, which is the typical length of RSV season. Beyfortus is not available yet, but it is expected to be out later this fall.

Syngais is for children under 24 months old with certain conditions that place them at high risk for RSV disease. This injection is available and is given once a month during RSV season. Additionally, Abryvso, the RSV vaccine made by Pfizer, which is approved for adults 60 years old and older, is also FDA approved for pregnant women between 32 and 36 weeks pregnant.

This vaccine is to help prevent severe RSV in infants from birth through six months.

(David Kohll of Kohll’s RX)

Respecting those who still make major contributions: Older adults

By Paula Crozier

In our American culture, we recognize the importance of the contribution older adults have provided us and have paved the way for us. There are the military veterans who have kept our nation free, the business people who have created jobs and paid taxes so we have better infrastructure and necessities and amenities. There are the homesteaders, the grandparents, the mothers and fathers who have passed down the legacy knowledge in farming, home economics and life skills. And there are the wise people who have taught us the ways of our heritage to connect us to our past and to provide insights into our future.

We haven’t, however, figured out exactly how best to help our older adults when care is needed for them. Of course we have independent, assisted and skilled nursing communities that have truly been the way we care for our older adults, but bridging that transition from independent living at home to nursing care is a difficult path with several conversations about finances, logistics and care options.

That’s another discussion, for here, I just want to take some time as we enter fall to sit back and reflect on how we truly recognize and contribute to the care and honor of the older adults in our lives. Older adults are our children’s babysitters, volunteers and employed workers. They contribute to our gross domestic product and economy, they pay taxes and own homes. They take in their adult children when necessary. Many still work full-time to contribute each day.

I recently saw a TikTok video where a 92-year-old father got a parking ticket at the doctor’s office when he took his disabled 63-year-old son to the doctor. The judge hearing this, of course, dismissed the gentlemen’s ticket because it was the right thing to do.

We need to remind our children of the legacy knowledge, the wisdom and the sacrifice our older adults still make to our communities each day. Regardless of slowing down, of what “Boomers” do or don’t do like being glued to smartphones all the time, we need to honor our older adults much better.

There are so many adages of “respect your elders,” “the wisdom of the elders,” and so on. Another example is when I overheard a woman in the checkout buying “reusable zip baggies” for her kids’ snacks. After stating something about sustainability, I was reminded that my parents and grandparents really knew sustainability, except they just called it “usage.” Nothing was thrown away, everything was used again from aluminum foil to gift wrap, Younker’s and Brandeis gift boxes to used bars of soap which my mom kept in a jar to wash her hosiery.

There wasn’t any “leaving the lights on,” or staying up late because they rose before dawn to take care of their household and farm work before taking care of us. I missed out on many a breakfast at Hy-Vee because my parents shopped at 7a.m. before the crowd and relaxed with a hot coffee and the paper before starting their day.

Yes, we should rightfully so, respect our older adults. We should honor them and embrace them. We would do much better for our own sake of integrity and dignity if we did.

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.

Community Centers around Omaha participate in 2023 Senior Field Day

ENOA is recruiting volunteers to become Ombudsman Advocates

The 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.

1-833-422-1751

NEW HORIZONS

PHOTOS

Community Centers around Omaha showed their competitive side and team spirit at the 2023 Senior Field Day in September. Older adults competed in golf, dominoes, bocce ball, mini putt-putt, Wheel of Fortune, ladder ball and more

Volunteer Connect offers a variety of opportunities

Do 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:

• Quilters to create items for Duet residents, at their Winter Extravaganza.

• Knitter to create knit prayer shawls, hats mittens, 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

• 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. Tip Top is located at 5910 Maple Street in downtown Benson. The volunteers would be stocking the Shop and waiting on customers.

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:

• Nov. 14

• Volunteers Assisting Seniors VAS Volunteers are needed to provide nonbiased Medicare Counseling and Homestead Exemption Application Assistance through Volunteers Assisting Seniors. Free training is provided.

• Volunteer willing to teach the art of tatting. Contact Tia Schoenfeld for more information.

• Royal Oaks Assisted Living looking for volunteers to do a variety of things book clubs, gardening, arts.

St. Vincent de Paul Church 14330 Eagle Run Dr.

• Oct. 18, Dec. 13

St. Timothy Lutheran Church 93rd and Dodge streets

• Oct. 5, Dec. 7

The Servite Center of Compassion 72nd St. and Ames Cr.

• Nov. 18

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.

Ralston Senior Center

You’re invited to visit the Ralston Senior Center, 7301 Q St., Suite 100 this month for the following:

• October 4, 11 & 18: Bingo @ 12:15 p.m.

• October 11: Board meeting @ 10 a.m.

• October 12 & 26: Bingo @ 1 p.m.

• October 25: The Merrymakers present music by Joyce Torchia @ noon

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.

On days the Ralston Public Schools are closed due to the weather, the Ralston Senior Center will also be closed.

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.

The center may be used on weekends for various activities such as weddings, memorial services, anniversaries, family reunions, birthdays, baby showers, wedding showers, etc.

For more information, please call Darla @ 402-651-5009 or 402-331-1529.

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.

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 invites you to enjoy a performance by Billy Troy of Merrymakers, who will perform on October 24, at 12:30 p.m. Additionally, as part of their most beautiful traditions, the ISC will celebrate the “Day of the Dead” on October 27. And continuing the fun this fall season, the ISC will participate in a Halloween costume contest on October 31.

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.

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.

Author in October: October 17- Pamela Carter Joern writes about the Great Plains with joy and compassion as she shares Toby’s Last Resort.

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.

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.

If you are interested, please call 402-554-2951 or email us at UNOCapacity@unomaha.edu.

Outreach Patient Advocates lends a hand to older adults

By Ron Petersen

Confidence, clarity and continuity is what older adults rely on when it comes to dealing with the healthcare system.

At Outreach Patient Advocates, their services are in place to help patients feel comfortable as they will be by your side throughout the healthcare journey.

“We provide a sense of relief,” Outreach Patient Advocates Director of Business Development, Becky Korinek said. “It’s all about the peace of mind that we provide, besides saving money. We want our clients to feel confident with the outcome.”

Nicky Wik and Becky Korinek started Outreach Patient Advocates two years ago with the goal in mind of helping older adults with doctors’ appointments, hospital discharge, communication between health care providers and more when it comes to the healthcare system.

“We’ve been growing ever since — we have enough clients to keep us busy,” Korinek said.

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Outreach Patient Advocates provides many services including healthcare guidance, transitions of care to another facility or home, eldercare, end of care life and help with insurance.

“We work with clients however much they need us. We can be very involved or not involved very much at all,” Korinek said. “Insurance can leave you with stiff medical bills and you have to use specific language. On the other end we have several clients who have Alzheimer’s, so we work extensively with those clients in terms of getting their medication straightened out. We provide communication to all of the health care providers, and we ask the right questions.”

Anyone is eligible to use the services Outreach Patient Advocates provides, but their clients primarily do not have any family members in town.

For more information, visit Outreach Patient Advocates at outreachpatientadvocates.com or give them a call at 402-616-1298.

Health benefits of Tai Chi for older adults

Looking to get fitter without stressing out about it? Learn to go with the flow.

Tai Chi, a mind-body exercise rooted in multiple Asian traditions including martial arts, traditional Chinese medicine and philosophy, has become widely recognized as a gentle form of fitness that packs a serious health-promoting punch. With benefits that include better balance, enhanced immunity and improved cognition, it’s also popular thanks to its accessibility and effectiveness.

“Tai Chi keeps you moving, it helps you learn to breathe and relax, and it helps your balance, mobility and agility,” A Little Space Yoga & Tai Chi, Yoga and Tai Chi instructor, Nicole Le Clerc said. “I notice that I am really joyful when I practice Tai Chi.”

WHAT IS TAI CHI

In a nutshell, Tai Chi is an ideal mind-body practice combined with basic athletic training. The physical part is derived from a series of slow martial arts movements while the mindful aspect aligns with the go-with-theflow aspects of Taoism.

Together, you have a series of focused exercises that can be done in repetition or linked together in

what is known as a Tai Chi form.

“Tai Chi is likened to ‘swimming on land,’ ” Legacy Pilates, Yoga & More, Pilates, Yoga and Tai Chi instructor, Cindy Cook said. “Many of the movements are circular, rhythmic, fluid, smooth and graceful. Most western exercise is quick, abrupt, jerky and does not flow. Tai Chi lubricates the body, focuses the mind, enhances well-being, decreases stress and so much more.”

Like yoga, there are many styles of Tai Chi. Some are more vigorous, and some are more serene, but the

principles are ubiquitous.

WHY CHOOSE TAI CHI

Several elements of Tai Chi make it particularly appealing to older adults. Most of the exercises are done on your feet, but while it does involve movement, Tai Chi also includes meditation.

“Breathe and relax — those are my main directions when I teach Tai Chi,” Le Clerc said. “I want to encourage people to take a breath and try some Tai Chi.”

Plus, having the chance to slow down, relax and focus on breathing can help clear the mind.

“It takes precision,

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strength, balance, control and breath work to do Tai Chi,” Cook said. “Our society could benefit tremendously from this ancient practice of mindfulness.”

Another reason is Tai Chi is a great choice for older adults is that it seems to enhance one’s ability to navigate real-life activities like carrying groceries or climbing stairs.

“Whatever activity you do it is going to support the other activities you do,” Le Clerc said. “It will give you a better awareness of what you are doing. It comes from connecting with your body and how you are moving.”

HEALTH BENEFITS OF TAI CHI

The research backing up the benefits of practicing Tai Chi is extensive, which is encouraging for older adults.

“I’ve seen amazing benefits from those who participate in my 50 and older group,” Le Clerc said. “The more you do it, the more energy you get from it. And I’d love for people to practice on their own.”

Tai Chi is also clinically proven to be effective as rehabilitation for people with cardiopulmonary conditions and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It can significantly reduce chronic pain for conditions like fibromyalgia and can improve neurological function for people with Parkinson’s disease.

TRY TAI CHI

Tai Chi is an activity older adults can ease in to and can try it on the fly.

“In a world that is constantly changing, Tai Chi is simple and can calm things down,” Le Clerc said. “Anything that relaxes you is going to help your immune system. Better balance, posture, relaxed backs and stronger feet. I believe Tai Chi is made for everybody.”

Some people may not have the patience, but it’s an activity that is great for posture, stress, muscle issues and more, if practiced daily.

“We are a society on the edge — faster is better, harder is better, and it is difficult for many to slow down,” Cook said. “But if you give it a try, maybe it will help improve cognition, mood and focus, as well as decreased stress, anxiety and depression.”

From June to September, Lauritzen Gardens hosted a

Tai Chi and Qi Gong class a couple times a month, led by Tai Chi and Qi Gong instructor Michelle Cooper.

“With Qi Gong, you are getting rid of energy you don’t want, and you are bringing energy you do want in. It’s about balanced energy,” Michelle Cooper said. “Tai Chi is different – it’s more about moving the energy. Tai Chi follows a series of patterns and it’s very progressive.”

Cooper is a certified Tai Chi and Qi Gong Instructor who teaches all levels from beginner to advanced in her company, “The Power of You - Physical Therapy and Tai Chi/Qi Gong.”

She incorporates her passion for Tai Chi and Qi Gong with her 25 years of experience as a licensed Physical Therapist, and her teaching background to ensure her classes are fun, progressive, and easy to follow (with modifications given for all levels).

“Reducing tension in your body, focusing on breathing, improving balance and strength. It is a mindful movement practice that builds new neural pathways in your brain and improves mental focus.”

Locals were able to join Cooper over the summer for the mindful movements of Tai Chi and Qigong – focusing on decreasing tension, improving flexibility/ strength, better balance/ body awareness, mental focus, and calming the nervous system. The class took place outside, in standing, with no floor work, and is appropriate for all levels.

“Tai Chi and Qi Gong have a close connection with nature and practicing outdoors in nature allows you to breathe fresh air, more easily capture the energy of your surroundings, and be exposed to the benefits of natural light,” Cooper said.

Whether you attend her class or not, Cooper encourages people to give it at least give it a try.

“It’s never too late to learn something new. Anything where you learn something new that involves movement is very important,” Cooper said. “The movements are also all modifiable – so you don’t have to do it the exact way.

To join a Tai Chi class in the future, visit Lauritzen Gardens website at lauritzengardens.org.

COURTESY PHOTO

Michelle Cooper, a Tai Chi and Qi Gong instructor in Omaha, practices Tai Chi around the country including by the ocean in Florida.