Sept 2013 nh pages

A publication of the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging

September 2013 VOL. 38 • NO. 9

ENOA 4223 Center Street Omaha, NE 68105-2431

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID OMAHA NE PERMIT NO. 389

New Horizons ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Milestone Since 1993, ENOA’s Meals on Wheels program has provided 5.5 million meals to homebound Nebraskans. Darlene Burham (seen here) has been delivering these meals for 35 years.

Page 3.

Balancing act Nick Schinker examines the new $6 million Nebraska Biomechanics Core Facility that will open on the University of Nebraska at Omaha campus this month. The NBCF is designed to provide a new understanding of a variety of topics including human movement, falls, and strokes.

Page 10.

Age of technology Dr. R. Benjamin Knapp, from the Virginia Tech Institute for Creativity, Arts, and Technology will be among the speakers at Aging with Passion and Purpose: Aging Well in the Age of Technology. The Oct. 20 & 21 sessions will be held on the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Dodge Street campus.

Page 13.

A Caring Community Called HOME!

I

Independent & Assisted Living

• No Entrance Fee • Medicaid Waiver Approved • All Utilities & Housekeeping Included • Spacious 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments

49th & Q Street • 402-731-2118 www.southviewheightsomaha.com Please support New Horizons advertisers

Fontenelle Tours Omaha/Council Bluffs: 712-366-9596

Quoted prices are per person, double occupancy. For more information about our tours, please call Ward or Kathy Kinney at Fontenelle Tours at the number listed above.

2013 At the request of some of our travelers, we are offering several oneday trips to see if there is an interest in these shorter trips. If there is an interest, we will continue to offer them. If we have to cancel them because we don’t have a minimum number of travelers, the one-day trips will be discontinued.

Sunday Dinner at Parker’s Smokehouse. September 8. $45. Come along and meet your travel friends for another delicious Sunday evening dinner, this time at Parker’s Smokehouse. Call to reserve your seat while there’s still room!

Nebraska Junk Jaunt. September 27 – 28. $260. Come along on our fifth annual “Junk Jaunt,” covering more than 220 miles in central Nebraska.

Participating towns have city-wide garage, yard, and bake sales. Two full days of treasure hunting!

“Nunset Boulevard” at the Lofte. October 13. $99. Enjoy another great performance at the Lofte Community Theater in Manley, NE. This Sunday afternoon performance of the comedy “Nunset Boulevard” will be followed by a home cooked meal at the Main Street Café in Louisville, NE where you will have your choice of three great selections.

“Fox on the Fairway” at the New Theater. October 16. $119. Take a Wednesday trip to Kansas City and enjoy a great comedy about country club life during a golf tournament, as well as a wonderful lunch buffet at the New Theater.

Tracks to Boone & Corn Crib. October 19. $169. A Saturday trip to Boone, Iowa with a stop for a catered lunch at the “Corn Crib” in Madrid, and wine tasting from the Snus Hill Winery. Includes a one-hour and 45-minute steam locomotive train ride on the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad, a ride on the electric trolley, and the Railroad Museum & History Center.

Daniel O’Donnell in Branson. November 4 - 7. $689. See Daniel O’Donnell, Mel Tillis, Red, Hot…& Blue!, Dinner with Yakov, The Haygoods, and your choice of either Miracle of Christmas or The Legends in Concert.

Christmas at the Lofte. December 8. $99. ($89 if reserved before 10/8/13.) Enjoy another Sunday afternoon performance of “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” followed by a great home cooked meal after the play.

Kansas City Christmas. December 11 - 12. $299. Enjoy a special holiday luncheon at the Webster House, New Theater Restaurant buffet dinner and evening performance of “Never Too Late” starring George Wendt from “Cheers,” “Christmas in Song” at the Quality Hill Playhouse, Toy & Miniature Museum, tour of Strawberry Hill Povitica Bakery, shopping at Crown Center and Zona Rosa, and lodging at the Drury.

In Partnership with Collette Vacations (Let us help you find a Collette Vacation to your special destination when YOU want to go. Collette offers trips to numerous destinations both within the United States and throughout the world. Each trip is offered on many different dates throughout the year. Call us for further information.)

In 2014 we will be offering the following trips with Collette Vacations: Reflections of Italy, Northern National Parks, Spectacular South Africa, and New York City. (Exact dates will be availablein next month’s ad.)

Laughlin Laughlin in October (by Air). October 7 - 10. $299. Includes non-stop, round-trip airfare to Laughlin, Nevada, three nights lodging at the Riverside Resort and Casino on the banks of the Colorado River, and shuttle transportation to and from the airport.

Watch New Horizons and our website www.fontenelletours.com for our 2013 trip schedule.

Our new address is: 2008 W. Broadway #329, Council Bluffs, Iowa 51501

Page 2

•

New Horizons

UNMC test designed to determine if patients harboring a dangerous type of heart disease

•

t’s a virtual certainty that everyone over age 50 – more than 98 million Americans – has coronary artery disease.

So do 70 percent of the 40-year-olds. And about half of people in their 20s and 30s probably have it, too.

Yet heart disease doesn’t kill everybody.

Understanding the difference between those who die from heart disease and those who don’t has been a confounding riddle for modern medicine.

An interdisciplinary team of researchers at the University of Nebraska Medical Center believe they’ve made a potentially groundbreaking discovery. It’s a simple test that effectively determines whether or not a patient is harboring the dangerous type of heart disease.

Even better, the test could tell an apparently healthy 40-year-old if they’re in the earliest stages of the world’s top killer.

Most people live with heart disease blissfully unaware. They only develop complications late in life, such as chronic chest pain or angina. But there are others who unexpectedly suffer a debilitating or fatal heart attack. It doesn’t seem to matter if they’re young, fit and trim, or a world famous actor vacationing in Europe.

Coronary artery disease is the accumulation of plaque deposits inside the arteries that feed the heart. As plaque builds up, it restricts blood flow. For people who have the unstable and usually lethal form of the disease, a piece of that plaque can break off. It gets swept up in the blood stream, and wedges itself further down the line where it dams off blood flow. The result is a sudden heart attack or stroke.

Unfortunately, that heart attack is too often the first indication a patient has the lethal form of the disease.

But UNMC’s new test could change that fact.

Dr. Geoff Thiele, a professor of internal medicine, and Michael Duryee, a research coordinator for the Division of Rheumatology and Immunology at UNMC’s College of Medicine, made the initial discovery. While looking for clues to help understand inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and alcoholic liver disease, they focused on a molecule that’s a strong

September 2013

indicator of inflammation.

Known as MAA or malondialdehyde–acetaldehyde, the molecule also appeared to indicate the presence of coronary artery disease.

“We thought it was cool scientifically, but we’re not clinical guys,” Duryee said.

“We don’t see this everyday.”

Thiele and Duryee brought in cardiologist Dr. Dan Anderson, an assistant professor in UNMC’s Division of Cardiology who is a rare blend of researcher and practicing physician. He has a frontline view of the battle against the world’s most prolific killer, which annually takes more than an estimated 17 million people.

Heart disease accounts for 600,000 American deaths every year.

“In the current realm of understanding disease, we know inflammation is important in cardiovascular disease,” Dr. Anderson said. “But we really don’t understand a lot about why or how.”

By current measures, Anderson said, about 30 percent of people with heart disease slip through the cracks. For those people, the first indication of trouble may be a killer heart attack in what he called “a failure of medicine.”

“We should have seen and recognized this decades prior, and prevented it,” he said. “People tend to feel okay and think they’re okay.

But they’re not even seeing the tip of the iceberg.”

There are others with the disease that suffer few, if any, ill effects. Predicting which patients will develop the more deadly form of heart disease is little more than a guess.

Then Dr. Thiele and Duryee knocked on the door.

“I said, ‘Oh, my.’ From a clinical diagnostic perspective, this becomes invaluable to help understand those different groups of patients,”

Dr. Anderson said.

Over the course of two pilot studies, the team tested hundreds of volunteer patients’ blood, and found a remarkable correlation.

“Right now, the data really is incredible,” Dr. Thiele said.

It’s no minor feat for pilot studies to generate significant results with such a small group of patients.

Most other studies in cardiovascular research don’t show significant results until thousands of patients are included in a study, Dr. Anderson said.

“We’re seeing differences where we haven’t been able to predict those differences before, and I think that’s the value,” he added.

The initial results have gained attention elsewhere.

The research team and UNMC’s technology transfer office, UNeMed Corporation, are in preliminary discussions with several companies on how to translate the results into products that can better factor in a patient’s risk of heart attack Thiele said any test developed from the discovery would be cheap and easy to implement with any clinical lab facility’s existing equipment. It would be a simple blood test, not unlike tests that measure blood-sugar levels for diabetics.

The next rounds of testing will be critical to understand how accurate the test can be, particularly studies that follow individual patients over the course of five or 10 years, Duryee said.

If successful, researchers hope the test could be used to definitively tell younger patients in their 40s, 30s, or even their 20s whether or not they’ll develop potentially fatal heart disease.

Perhaps even patients in their teens could get early warnings, and begin taking preventative measures.

“That’s what we don’t know, but that’s our goal,” Dr. Anderson said.

ENOA’s Meals on Wheels program has delivered millions of hot, nutritious meals to its recipients

O

n a warm summer day recently, Darlene Burham loaded her car with carriers and grocery sacks filled with nutritionally balanced meals for the men and women along Route 108 in midtown Omaha. Burham has been delivering hot, nutritious food to the homebound for 35 years.

“Drivers like Darlene are the backbone of the program,” said Arlis Smidt, who has coordinated ENOA’s Meals on Wheels program for 24 years. “I really appreciate her hard work, dedication, and years of service.”

Home-delivered meals have been available in the Omaha area since 1972 when the Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) began its “mobile meals program.”

In the mid-1970s, ENOA developed a network of congregate meals sites in Douglas, Sarpy, Dodge, Cass, and Washington counties. Men and women that attended the centers began requesting that “pack out” meals be delivered to their homes when they became ill. In response to the growing popularity of this service, ENOA started its home-delivered meals program in 1979

using a centralized delivery system with paid and volunteer drivers. The agency’s caterer prepared and packaged the food for the routes.

From 1980 to ‘89, ENOA contracted with VNA and merged the Omaha area’s two home-delivered meals programs. In 1989, the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging stopped contracting with VNA and started providing the service directly.

Between July 1, 1993 and June 30, 2013, ENOA’s drivers delivered 5.5 million midday meals to homebound men and women in the agency’s five-county service area.

If all those inch-deep meals trays were stacked on top of one another they’d reach more than 458,000 feet into the air or 168 times higher than Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.

“ENOA has been able to deliver 5.5 million meals since July 1993 because we’ve had dozens of wonderful drivers – paid, volunteer, and ENOA employees – that really care about the meals’ recipients,” Smidt said. “We’ve also worked with some outstanding catering companies and their staffs.”

New trays allow food to be reheated, save time in the packaging process

I

n July 2013, the catering service for the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging’s Meals on Wheels program switched to a new type of packaging for the hot portion of its home-delivered meals. There are at least three advantages to using the new plastic trays, according to Arlis Smidt, who has coordinated the program for ENOA for 24 years.

“The food can be reheated in either a microwave or conventional oven and the trays may be recycled through local recycling efforts,” she said. “The meals are also more attractive because you can see the food through the clear, heatsealed plastic on top.”

Henry Beachler, food services director for ENOA’s catering service, said the new trays speed up the process and decrease the cost of packaging the meals.

“We’re now able to package 700 meals in 45 minutes which is 10 minutes faster than with the old trays, and we do it with two fewer people (on the assembly line).”

The 8.5 inches wide by 6.25-inches deep, threecompartment trays are the same size as the aluminum trays used previously by ENOA and hold the same amount of food.

In June, drivers on five of ENOA’s 50 routes began delivering meals in the new

trays on an experimental basis. “We wanted to see how they’d travel in the carriers and whether they’d keep the hot food hot,” Smidt said.

“They passed each test with flying colors.”

As each of the routes was converted to the new trays, every ENOA meals recipient was given materials explaining the reasons behind the switch and instructions

for reheating the food.

The new trays have been well received, according to Smidt. “I think the people who receive our meals enjoy the flexibility of being able to reheat all or portions of the food and eating it later if they choose.”

For more information on ENOA’s Meals on Wheels program, please all 402-4446766.

Make a donation to help support the

“Voice for Older Nebraskans!”

b u l C s n o z i New Hor

Join the

today!

Membership includes a subscription to the New Horizons newspaper.

New Horizons Club Send

Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging 4223 Center Street to: Omaha, NE 68105-2431 I get the New Horizons regularly and don’t need to be put on the mailing list.

I would like to start receiving the New Horizons at home. My address is below.

NAME ADDRESS CITY/STATE/ZIP

$5

$25

$10

$50

$15

Other _______

New Horizons New Horizons is the official publication of the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging. The paper is distributed free to people over age 60 in Douglas, Sarpy, Dodge, Washington, and Cass counties. Those living outside the 5-county region may subscribe for $5 annually.

Address all correspondence to: Jeff Reinhardt, Editor, 4223 Center Street, Omaha, NE 68105-2431.

Phone 402-444-6654. FAX 402-444-3076.

E-mail: jeff.reinhardt@nebraska.gov Advertisements appearing in New Horizons do not imply endorsement of the advertiser by the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging. However, complaints about advertisers will be reviewed and, if warranted, their advertising discontinued. Display and insert advertising rates available on request. Open rates are commissionable, with discounts for extended runs. Circulation is 20,000 through direct mail and freehand distribution.

Editor..............................................Jeff Reinhardt Ad Mgr................Mitch Laudenback, 402-444-4148 Contributing Writers......Nick Schinker, Leo Biga, & Lois Friedman Fremont Delivery.........................Dick Longstein ENOA Board of Governors: Mary Ann Borgeson, Douglas County, chairperson; Jim Warren, Sarpy County, vice-chairperson; Jerry Kruse, Washington County, secretary; Gary Osborn, Dodge County, & Jim Peterson, Cass County.

Henry Beachler, food services director for ENOA’s catering service, with one of the new trays.

September 2013

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

T

Parkinson’s disease treatment

he Nebraska Neuroscience Alliance at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, is embarking on a translational clinical trial using Leukine, a drug used to boost the immune system in cancer patients, to test a unique immune therapy in people with Parkinson’s disease.

The NNA, formed in 2011, unites three of UNMC’s top neuroscience programs – the departments of neurological sciences and pharmacology and experimental neuroscience as well as the Munroe-Meyer Institute.

Parkinson’s disease is caused by the loss of neurons that produce dopamine, a nervesignaling chemical that controls movement and balance. The Parkinson’s Disease Foundation estimates about 1 million people in the United States and more than 4 million people worldwide have the disease.

Degeneration and loss of these dopamineproducing neurons typically occur after age 60, and it’s estimated that one person in 20 over age 80 has Parkinson’s.

Neurodegeneration occurs when a normal protein, called alpha synuclein, clumps, changes shape, and accumulates in the brain. The accumulation of protein clumps alert the immune system, which launches an attack, causing inflammation and eventual destruction of dopamine-producing nerve cells.

“The project is a collaboration between neurologists and neuroscientists,” said Dr. Howard Gendelman, principal investigator and chair of the department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience at UNMC. “The study will determine whether the drug Leukine can transform the immune system in Parkinson’s disease from one that causes harm to the brain to one that protects it, elicits nerve cell repair, and ultimately affects disease symptoms,” said R. Lee

Mosley, Ph.D., a co-principal investigator and an UNMC associate professor in the department of pharmacology and experimental neuroscience.

I

n a yearlong, double-blind clinical trial, set to begin this fall, 16 patients will be monitored using magnetoencephalography (MEG) imaging to pinpoint those areas of the brain affected by the disease and determine if Leukine works.

This is the first time MEG has been used to monitor Parkinson’s disease and the effects of a treatment, said Tony Wilson, Ph.D., an assistant professor in the UNMC Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Neuroscience, who will be working with the assembled team of neurologists, nurses, statisticians, and researchers.

Dr. Gendelman said if this therapy proves to be useful, it sets the stage to launch yet more comprehensive studies looking at the effectiveness of other potential vaccine and immune changing therapies.

“Since current therapies have not led to a breakthrough it is certainly worthwhile to consider new approaches,” said John Bertoni, M.D., Ph.D., a professor of neurological sciences in the College of Medicine and director of the Parkinson’s clinic at UNMC. “This is the first step and we are cautiously optimistic but we will need to analyze the information we gain very carefully.”

Gendelman and his team have, for more than 12 years, worked to not only understand Parkinson’s disease progression but also to slow it through immune therapy. The work would not have been possible without a vigorous collaboration between neurologists, statisticians, psychologists, and neuroscientists.

(UNMC’s Public Relations Department provided this information.)

Are you TURNING age 65 or are you new to Medicare?

Do you need HELP understanding your MEDICARE OPTIONS? CALL ME to discuss your Medicare rights, options, & entitlements TODAY!

What you don’t know n a th ith more Appointed w COST YOU! could nies… rance compa u s in e if L & h

50 Healt ts sts + benefi Compare co

TODAY!

For more information contact: Page 4

•

Let’s talk about the benefits that matter most to you.

Kim Shulters

Senior Insurance Specialist

402-968-1500 kimshulters@gmail.com

New Horizons

•

September 2013

Read it & eat

By Lois Friedman readitandeat@yahoo.com

Healthy ideas for tasty food Back to school! Bells are ringing, classes starting, time for you to read up on healthy living in the latest cookbooks.

The Best Things You Can Eat

By David Grotto (DaCapo, $15.99) This author/clinician hopes to inspire you to eat healthier.

Well organized with reader friendly summaries and sidebars. Sneak-a-peek, how much is enough?, and shocker food lists. From aches & pains to zinc.

The Vegetarian Kitchen

By Mellissa Bushby (Struik) More than 100 meatless, dairy-free recipes from this South African author/illustrator. Lovely photographs.

From Chronicle: Raw Awakening

By Kristen Suzanne ($18.95) “Lose weight, unleash your energy, feel and look spectacular.” This blogger takes you step-by-step through raw foodstyle choices and 50 recipes.

50 Best Plants on the Planet

By Cathy Thomas ($29.95) Alphabetized encyclopedia of the most nutrient-dense fruits and veggies from Arugula to Zucchini. Tips and benefits of 150 color coded recipes with ‘try it” variations.

Vegan Secret Supper

By Mérida Anderson (Arsenal Pulp, $26.95) Foodie fun, community dining, pop-up restaurant, and 150 vegan style recipes and menus from her tiny rogue/ closet sized kitchen Sunday suppers.

The Rotation Diet

By Martin Katahn ( Norton, $15.95) Three week diet developed to lose unwanted pounds and establish healthier lifestyle. Go from fat to fit with ideas from the director of Vanderbilt University Weight Management Program. Recipes, menus, and more.

Allergy-Friendly Food for Families From the Editors of Kiwi (Andrews McMeel, $24.99) Millions live with food allergies. The five most common food allergens are covered here: gluten, dairy, eggs, nuts, and soy. sxTry this easy dessert:

The World’s Simplest Soft Serve Serves 4, Prep Time: 5 minutes

Four large frozen bananas, cut into large chunks Optional add-ins: ground cinnamon or ginger, dairy-free chocolate chips, crushed graham crackers or gluten-free cookies, chopped dates, nut or seed butter.

In a food processor, puree the bananas for 1 to 2 minutes, until smooth and creamy. Add any add-ins, if using. Process again and serve immediately.

Please support New Horizons advertisers!

S e l l Yo u r H o u s e “As Is,” At a Fair Price, On the Date of Your Choice !!!!

• We use private funds so we can close fast.

• You don’t have to do any repairs.

• Move when you want.

• Leave any or all of your stuff.

• No Commissions or Fees. We pay Closing Costs.

Call Today for a Free Report: (402)-291-5005 or www.7DaysCash.com The Sierra Group LLC / We are a Professional Home Buying Company BBB Member Member of The Sierra Group LLC is a licensed real estate agent

Corrigan Senior Center You’re invited to visit the Corrigan Senior Center, 3819 X St. this month for: • Wednesday, Sept. 4, 11, 18, & 25: Painting class

by Joe Broghammer from WhyArts? @ 10:30 a.m. No experience is needed. Please call 402-731-7210 for details.

• Thursday, Sept. 5: Grandparents Day Lunch & Bingo.

Bring pictures of and stories about your grandkids, and let’s celebrate Grandparents Day early. A tasty noon lunch will be served before Bingo.

• Monday, Sept. 9: Birthday Party @ 11 a.m. featuring music by Physha from the Merrymakers. Join us for a delicious noon lunch followed by Bingo.

• Thursday, Sept. 19: Roast beef dinner followed by Mega Bingo. Enjoy a delicious noon roast beef dinner, and then play Bingo with $75 in cash prizes to be given away.

The suggested donations are $3 each for dinner and Bingo.

The reservation deadline is noon on Friday, Sept. 13.

• Monday, Sept. 23: River City Round-up Party. Wear your favorite Western wear & join us for a Wild West show! Omaha’s Country Kickers will perform @ 11:15 a.m. Stay for a noon lunch with your fellow outlaws and partners. Bingo follows lunch.

• Thursday, Sept. 27: An AARP presentation titled National Update on Medicare & Social Security @ 11:30 a.m. Stay for a noon lunch and Bingo following lunch.

• Monday, Sept 30: Flu shots sponsored by Walgreen’s @ 11 a.m. Stay for lunch and Bingo. Please call 402-7317210 to sign up for the influenza vaccination.

The Corrigan Senior Center is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lunch is served at noon. A $3 donation is normally suggested for the meal. Reservations are normally due by noon the business day prior to the meal you wish to enjoy.

We offer chair volleyball Tuesday and Thursday @ 11 a.m., Tai Chi on Tuesday and Thursday @ 10 a.m., card games, Bingo, ceramics, exercise, woodcarving, and loads of fun!

For meal reservations or more information, please call Lynnette at 402-731-7210.

Law Offices of Charles E. Dorwart 31 years of legal experience • Wills • Living Trusts • Probate • Healthcare and Financial Powers of Attorney • In Home Consultations • Free Initial Consultation

Film will take viewers across the country in a ‘26 Model T Sept. 17 at Village Point Sea to Sea in a Model T is the kickoff show for the Omaha World Adventurers 2013-2014 travel film series.

This film will be shown at 2 and 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 17 at the Village Point Theater, 304 N 174th St.

film producers.

A little more than 100 years ago Henry Ford introduced the first Model T Ford, the car that changed America. Soon, one out of seven workers in America was in the auto industry and

In ‘Sea to Sea in a Model T,’ the Van Polens take viewers from Puget Sound in Washington State to the eastern most town and lighthouse in America.

The six-show OWA film series will take viewers across the U.S. and to Korea, Russia, and East Africa.

Each film will be presented by the filmmaker who will be available in person to answer question, offer tips and travel advice.

The star of the first show is Rosy, a 1926 Model T, who is staring in a Canadian film. Our driver, host, and filmmaker is Don Van Polen, winner of numerous photographic awards.

He has appeared in Kodak Cavalcade and National Geographic, and is one of the nation’s top travel, adventure, and documentary

half the cars on the road had the name FORD displayed on them. Henry told buy-

ers, “You can have any color you like as long as it’s black.” Rosy, however, is red.

In Sea to Sea in a Model T, the Van Polens take viewers from Puget Sound in Washington State to the eastern most town and lighthouse in America. Along the way they describe the landscapes with delightful interludes of appropriate music as well as the fascinating story of Henry Ford’s old car.

Tickets to Sea to Sea in a Model T are $13. Six-show season tickets to the OWA series are available for $60.

OWA is a production of RJ Enterprises, Inc. For more information, please call 866-385-3824.

Rosy, a 1926 Model T, is the star of Don Van Polen’s fim, ‘Sea to Sea in a Model T.’ Tickets to the Sept. 17 viewing are $13.

440 Regency Parkway Drive • Suite 139 Omaha, NE 68114 Office: (402) 558-1404 • Fax: (402) 779-7498 Cdorwartjd@aol.com

“As a Board Certified Audioprosthologist, I have fit over 22,000 hearing aids. The Starkey Wireless Wi hearing aid works best in all situations.”

- Mark Glassman, BC-HIS, ACA

• TRIAL PERIOD • 0% FINANCING • LIVE DEMONSTRATIONS • FREE HEARING TESTING • TRAINING- SUPPORT AND ONGOING HEARING IMPROVEMENT SERVICES

Professionally Fit in One Hour FREMONT 2415 E. 23rd Ave South (East Hwy 30 next to Earl May)

(402) 727-7866 1-800-239-7866

September 2013

•

OMAHA 12100 W. Center Rd. (NW Corner of 120th & Center) Belair Plaza

Open: Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. evenings by appointment

(402) 571-1207

New Horizons

•

Page 5

Save time, money and eat healthier

By Carol McNulty

U

niversity of Nebraska extension nutrition educator Cindy Brison says by having a healthy pantry, fridge, and freezer, time and money can be saved while you eat healthy.

She offers these nutrition ideas for you to try.

For the pantry: • Cooking and salad oils low in saturated fat and high in monounsaturated or polyunsaturated fat. Soybean and canola oil are the most cost effective.

• Cooking oil spray. These sprays can help reduce the need to pour cooking oil in many recipes. There are only two calories per spray.

• Whole grain pastas. This is a great way to add whole grains to your diet.

• Canned beans. These are more convenient than dried beans. By rinsing and draining them, you can reduce the sodium.

They’re also a great source of fiber. The beans can be added to salads, casseroles, soups, or can be a main dish on their own.

• Low-sodium reduced fat chicken broth or vegetable broth. This can add flavor to cream-free sauces without adding a lot of calories and sodium.

• Instant and quick cooking brown rice and other whole grains such as barley.

These are great pantry staples. Brown rice will work in any dish that calls for white rice. Barley is great in soups. This is a fantastic way to get whole grains and increase the nutritional value of your meal.

• Whole wheat flour. You can substitute wheat flour in most recipes up to 50 percent of the amount of white flour. If the recipe calls for a cup of flour make it a half-cup white flour and a half-cup whole wheat.

• Vinegars such as balsamic, red wine, white wine, cider, and sherry. These can help make tasty vinaigrettes for salads and add flavors to sauces.

• Oatmeal and other whole grain dry cereals. These are great for breakfast and can be added to meatloaf and other dishes to replace some of the meat.

• Canned tuna, salmon, or mackerel.

Make sure you buy canned fish in water instead of oil with no added salt. This is a great way to get some omega-3 fatty acids by adding canned fish to salads or casseroles.

• Powdered egg whites. Add the low-fat, low cholesterol part of the egg when recipes call for egg whites.

• Nuts can be added to salads, baked goods, and entrees. Nuts are a good source of protein and healthy oils.

• Canned fruits in light syrup of juice can be a dessert by itself or add it to yogurt or cottage cheese. Canned peaches and mandarin oranges are great in salads.

• Canned vegetables. Look for the reduced salt or no added salt varieties. They can be added to soups, salads, casseroles, or pasta.

• Herbs and spices. Herbs and spices can add flavor to foods and can replace salt.

Canned vegetables can be added to soups, salads, casseroles, or pasta.

In the fridge: • Fat-free or low-fat milk, yogurt, or cottage cheese. Yogurt can be added to sauces to thicken them instead of sour cream. You can use cottage cheese in lasagna or add it to tuna or salmon salads.

• Egg substitutes. Use real and egg substitutes in recipes or as omelets and scrambled eggs. They can help reduce saturated fat and costs.

• Whole grain bagels, pita bread, and English muffins. This is another way to add whole grain to your day.

• Low-fat, whole wheat flour tortillas.

These can help increase your fiber and whole grains. Serve these with chopped up vegetables with low-fat cheese to make a great snack.

In the freezer: • Frozen vegetables and vegetable blends. Read the label to make sure sodium has not been added, especially on Asian blends for stir-fry or microwave dishes.

These make it easier to add vegetables to casseroles and soups.

• Frozen fruit and recipe-ready fruit blends. Frozen blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries all deliver a hearty antioxidant punch. Put them on your cereal and salads or use them as a dessert with non-fat yogurt.

• Pre-portioned seafood, lean meats, ground turkey, and boneless chicken breasts. These can help make quick and easy meals because they’re already cut into a four-ounce sizes so it takes out the guesswork on the amount you’re eating.

For more information on nutrition and food safety visit http://douglas-sarpy.unl. edu and http://lancaster.unl.edu.

(McNulty is an educator with the University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension Office in Douglas and Sarpy counties.)

New Cassel Retirement Center Celebrating 40 Years of Caring Our Legacy Continues...

§ 24-Hour Health Services § Restaurant Style Meals § Weekly Housekeeping § Scheduled Transportation § Safe & Secure Environment

§ Daily Mass & Rosary § Weekly Inter-Faith Service § Utilities / Cable § Social Activities § Gift Shop / Beauty Salon

It’s Truly a Place to Call Home!

Call (402) 393-2277/ 900 North 90th Street Omaha, NE 68114 / www.newcassel.org Sponsored by the School Sisters of Saint Francis

Page 6

•

New Horizons

•

September 2013

Dora Bingel Senior Center You’re invited to visit the Dora Bingel Senior Center, 923 N. 38th St., this month for the following: • Sept. 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30: Al-Anon meeting @ 7 p.m.

• Sept. 3, 10, 17, & 24: Grief Support Group @ 10 a.m.

• Sept. 18: Regeneration Lunch with singer Tim Javorsky from the Merrymakers @ noon. The cost is $3.

• Sept. 19: Red Hat Club meeting @ noon.

• Sept. 25: Birthday Party Luncheon @ noon. Eat free if you have a September birthday.

• Sept. 27: Hard of Hearing Support Group @10:30 a.m.

A nutritious lunch is served on Tuesday and Friday. A fancier lunch is offered on Wednesday. A $1 donation is suggested for the meals, other than $3 for Regeneration.

Round-trip transportation is available for $3.

Reservations are required 24 hours in advance for all meals.

Other activities offered at the facility include: • Tuesdays: free matinee @ 12:30 p.m.

• Wednesday: Devotions @ 10:30 a.m., Tai Chi @ 11:15 a.m., Bingo @ 1 p.m., and Bible study @ 1 p.m.

• Friday: Joy Club Devotions @ 9:30 a.m.

For more information, please call 402-898-5854.

Millard Senior Center at Montclair You’re invited to visit the Millard Senior Center at Montclair, 2304 S. 135th Ave., for the following: • Wednesday, Sept. 11: We’ll resume making dresses for young girls in Africa from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Wednesday, Sept. 18: We’re making serving plates for Christmas cookies. Bring a glass plate, and we’ll have the Christmas fabric for you to attach to the plate.

The Millard Senior Center is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lunch is served at 11:30. A $3 donation (free on your birthday) is suggested for the meal. Reservations are due by noon the business day prior to the lunch you wish to enjoy.

Center activities include a walking club (join and get a free t-shirt), Tai Chi class (Mondays and Fridays from 10 to 10:45 a.m. for a $1 suggested donation), chair volleyball (Tuesdays @ 10 a.m.), card games, quilting on Thursday @ 9 a.m., and bingo (Tuesdays and Fridays @ noon).

Students from the Vatterott College of Cosmetology will be offering free haircuts, facials, manicures, or pedicures on a yet to be determined day in September. Call 402-5461270 for more information.

On Wednesday, Oct. 2, will be teaching a basket weaving class at 9 a.m. and noon. The cost is $17. The class size is limited to five students.

For meal reservations and more information, please call Susan Sunderman at 402-546-1270.

Heartland Family Service Senior Center You’re invited to visit the Heartland Family Service Senior Center, 2101 S. 42nd St. for the following: • Sept 5: Balance testing by Creighton University occupational therapy students from 10 a.m. to noon.

• Sept. 5, 12, 19, & 26: Learn to quilt with Shea Wilkinson from WhyArts @ 9:30 a.m.

• Sept. 9: Reminisce with Latoya @ 10:30 a.m.

• Sept. 12: Birthday party with music by Woody from the Merrymakers @ 10:45 a.m.

• Sept. 16: Speaker from Legal Aid of Nebraska.

• Sept. 17: Red Hat Society Meeting at the Brookside Café, 156th Street and West Center Road.

• Sept. 30: Trip to the Apple Farm. Details to follow.

A nurse visits Mondays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Call Karen @ 402-553-5300 for an appointment.

The Heartland Family Service Senior Center is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lunch is normally served at noon. A $3 donation is suggested for the meal. Reservations are due by noon the business day prior to the lunch you wish to attend.

Transportation is available within specific boundaries for 50 cents each way.

Regular activities include Tai Chi classes on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday @ 10:15 a.m. Crafts with Patti begins Tuesdays @ 10 a.m.

For meal reservations or more information, please call 402-552-7480 or 402-553-5300.

Navy vets meet 69 years after basic training Programs for older nature lovers

are available at Fontenelle Forest The Fontenelle Nature Association’s SUN (Seniors Understanding Nature) program offers activities for older adults the second Tuesday of each month at the Fontenelle Nature Center, 1111 Bellevue Blvd North.

The programs, held from 9:45 to 11 a.m., feature an indoor program, an optional nature walk, and refreshments.

The cost is $6 per person each month.

For more information, please call Catherine Kuper at 402-731-3140, ext. 1019.

Here are the programs: • Sept. 10: Jewels of the Sky: Dragonflies and Damselflies.

• Oct. 8: One Hundreds Years of the Forest.

• Nov. 12: Backyard Birds in Winter.

• Dec. 10: Evergreens for All Seasons.

I

Please support New Horizons advertisers

Gil Hill today and as a 18-year-old member of the United States Navy.

n June 1944, a couple of Nebraska teenagers, Gil Hill from Chadron and Bill Arnold of Omaha, arrived at the Farragut Naval Station in Idaho to begin nine weeks of basic training during World War II. Although both were assigned to Camp Hill and Company 669, Arnold and Hill never met one another during their Idaho days despite sharing the same barracks.

After basics, Hill, then age 18, was sent to the South Pacific where he served for two years on an AK-230 ship named the USS Manderson Victory.

“We had 8,000 tons of ammo aboard,” Hill said during a recent interview. “Our job was to supply ammo for the battleships, cruisers, and destroyers.”

Following basic training and a stint at a naval fleet post office in San Francisco, Arnold, then age 18, was shipped to Guam where he served for 10 months.

Discharged from the Navy in 1946, Arnold spent 38 years at United of Omaha, retiring from the insurance company in 1988 as a vice-president in the firm’s investment division.

Hill, also discharged in 1946, retired in 1992 after careers as a high school coach and a Presbyterian minister.

F

lash forward to July 2013 when Hill was a guest teacher of a Bible study class at Omaha’s Christ Community Church. He learned that a congregation member was putting together a book that would feature current and past photos of CCC members who had served in the United States military.

Arnold who was taking that Bible class and Hill began comparing notes about their days in the Navy. The pair was amazed to discover they were finally meeting 69 years after being stationed at the same base, assigned to the same company, and living in the same barracks.

“It (meeting Hill and learning the men had so much in common) was quite a surprise,” a smiling Arnold said during a recent interview.

“I was astonished,” Hill said. “I thought it had to be an act of God.”

hese days, Arnold – who had two children with his first wife, Marilyn – enjoys spending time with Evelyn, his spouse since 2003. Despite injuring his shoulder in a fall last winter, the 87-yearold grandfather of three, plans to take up golfing again as soon as he heals.

Hill, who has three children, eight grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren, has been married to his second wife, Nancy, for 11 years. His first wife, Melva, died of cancer in 1985. The Hills had been married for 35 years.

Gil, also age 87, golfs twice a week, and keeps busy providing counseling and helping out with weddings and funerals.

Hill and Arnold have become good friends, have lunch together from time to time, and still can’t believe they met 69 years after being in basic training at the same time and in the same location.

“What are the odds of that happening,” said Hill. “Probably like the odds of winning the lottery.”

T

Bill Arnold, age 87, today in Omaha and in San Mateo, Calif. in 1945.

September 2013

•

New Horizons

•

Page 7

ARTsarben scheduled for Sept. 28, 29 at Aksarben Village

T

he Omaha Summer Arts Festival’s autumn sister event, ARTsarben, will take place in and around Stinson Park at Aksarben Village, 67th and Center streets, on Saturday, Sept. 28 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 29 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

ARTsarben will showcase traditional fine art plus offbeat, creative, and stylish works by 80 artists from throughout the United States. This art show will feature an extensive art marketplace for all budgets, street performers, a hands-on activity area for children, and a variety of food and drink.

Art collectors and enthusiasts will be able to purchase works directly from artists in numerous mediums including jewelry, ARTsarben’s food court will feature sculpture, photography, painting, fiber, food trucks and kiosks offering a variety of glass, metal and wood. snacks and refreshments.

The Sunday Omaha Farmers Market, isitors will be able to enjoy upwhich normally takes place from 9 a.m. close, unique, and family-friendly to 1 p.m. in Aksarben Village along 67th entertainment on both days from Street and Mercy Road, will relocate during various performers including musicians, ARTsarben to the parking lot just north of singers, jugglers, and magicians. Entertain- the Aksarben Village parking garage. A full ers will perform in staging areas throughout array of more than 70 vendors offering the grounds. produce, baked goods, meat products, At KidZone, kids of all ages will be able crafts, and more will be at the temporary to explore their budding artistic talent site. All the customary services will be through hands-on art activities, marvel at a available. solar-powered bubble-blowing tower, and For additional information about ARTburn off extra energy in bounce houses. sarben, visit www.artsarben.org.

V The New Horizons is brought to you each month by the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging.

d n Vehicle & a Ramp Sale

Your tion ina Vaccperts Ex

S

TION A N I C C VA

…anytime s. ’s l l h o K any r business hour la

during regu

ecipients r le ib g li e e edicar ed!

FREE to M nt need me

int No appo

Page 8

•

New Horizons

•

September 2013

September 2013 events calendar 6 Knuffle Bunny Through Sept. 22 The Rose Theater Friday @ 7 p.m.

Saturday @ 2 & 5 p.m.

Sunday @ 2 p.m. $18 402-345-4849 7 End of Summer Concert Gloriana Jeremy McComb & Matt Stillwell Midtown Crossing Venue opens 5 p.m.

Show @ 7 p.m.

FREE Rockbrook Village Art Fair Also Sept. 8 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

FREE 402-390-0890 World O! Water Papio NRD @ Wehrspann Lake Noon to 4 p.m.

FREE 402-444-3905 13 Omaha Restaurant Week Through Sept. 22 Omaha restaurants $20, $30, or $40 402-850-6776 14 End of Summer Concert Omaha Area Youth Orchestra & UNO’s Philharmonic Orchestra Midtown Crossing Venue opens @ 5 p.m.

Show begins @ 7 p.m.

FREE

20 Les Miserables Through Oct. 27 Omaha Community Playhouse Wed. – Sat. @ 7:30 p.m.

Sunday @ 2 p.m.

402-553-0800 21 End of Summer Concert USAH Heartland of America’s Brass in Blue Midtown Crossing Venue opens @ 5 p.m.

Show begins @ 7 p.m.

FREE 22 Family Fiesta at Henry Doorly Zoo Noon to 5 p.m.

402-733-8401 26 River City Rodeo & Stock Show Through Sept. 29 CenturyLink Center Omaha 402-554-9600

Lauritzen Gardens Antique & Garden Show $15 to $125 402-346-4002 28 End of Summer Concert Hal France & Friends Midtown Crossing Venue opens @ 5 p.m.

Show begins @ 7 p.m.

FREE Goose Bumps!

The Science of Fear Durham Museum $6, $7, & $9 402-444-5071

15 Midtown Car Show Midtown Crossing 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Legacy: The Emily Fisher Landau Collection Through Jan. 5, 2014 Joslyn Art Museum $5 to $8 402-342-3300

16 Women’s NORCECA Volleyball Through Sept. 21 Ralston Arena 402-934-6291

Math Alive!

Through Jan. 5, 2014 Strategic Air and Space Museum $11 & $12 402-944-3100

AARP, Kids Can are offering computer, photography classes The AARP Nebraska Information Center and Kids Can are collaborating to offer classes in basic computer skills for older adults.

The classes – which will be taught at Kids Can, 4860 Q St., – are scheduled for Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday afternoons September through mid-December.

The cost of the course is $15. You don’t have to be an AARP member to take the course.

A one-afternoon class on the basics of digital photography is also available through AARP and Kids Can. To sign up or for more information, please call 402398-9568.

Home accessibility remodeling class The Coalition to Protect Aging Adults is sponsoring a free program titled Five Tips for Successful Home Accessibility Remodeling on Tuesday, Sept. 17 from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the auditorium at the New Cassel Retirement Center, 900 N. 90th St. To register (which is required), please send an e-mail to feelhaver@tconl. com by Sept. 13.

Comedy ‘God of Carnage’ on stage at Blue Barn Sept. 26 to Oct. 18 Yasmina Reza’s, God of Carnage, translated by Christopher Hampton, will be on stage at Omaha’s Blue Barn Theatre, 614 S. 11th St., Sept. 26 through Oct. 18.

The comedy features two high-strung couples who discuss a playground altercation between their two sons.

God of Carnage looks at relationships between spouses and friends and what happens when things push people over the edge.

Show times are 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 6 and 13 at 6 p.m.

Tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for persons age 65 and older.

For tickets or more information, call 402-345-1576.

Participants needed for a COPD Research Study IRB # 024-09-FB A multi-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study to assess the pharmacodynamics, efficacy, and safety of 50mg Tetomilast administered as oral tablets in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease associated with emphysema. (Protocol 197-08-250) Do you have emphysema or think you may have emphysema? The University of Nebraska Medical Center is conducting a clinical trial of an experimental medication for people with emphysema. Participants must be 40 to 75 years of age and be a current or former smoker.

You will receive medical testing and medication at no cost to you, and will be reimbursed for your time.

If you are interested in participating in this study for people with emphysema, call Sandy at 402-559-6365 or email her at stalbott@unmc.edu.

Omaha World Adventures

2013/2014 SEASON

ESCAPE

Live, on stage 6 award winning TAD film producers bring you their latest Travel, Adventure, Documentary films Tues. Sept 17, Don Van Polen

Sea to Sea in a Model T Tues. Oct. 22, Dennis Burkhart

Stern Wheeling Alaska’s Inside Passage Tues. Nov. 19, Doug Jones

Around the World - One Man’s Journey Tues. Feb. 25, Buddy Hatton

Faces of Korea

Tues. Mar. 25, Clint Denn

Cruising Russia, St. Petersburg to Moscow Wed. Apr. 23, Rick Ray

East African Safari Two showing 2 & 7:30 p.m., Village Point Theaters, 174th & Davenport St., Season Ticket, 6 shows, $60, single admission $13, at the door, cash or check only please.

Films are approximatel 90 minutes with intermission. An RJ Enterprises, Inc. Production 866-385-3824.

September 2013

•

New Horizons

•

Page 9

NBCF building culminates 17 years of phenomenal achievement

By Nick Schinker Contributing Writer

T

he writing of an undergraduate research paper was the first step in a journey of discovery that has taken Nicholas Stergiou, Ph.D., more than 5,600 miles from his homeland in Greece to Omaha.

“Coming up with new experiments is a way to satisfy the investigative desire people have.”

Today, the world is taking notice as Dr. Stergiou leads others on a journey of expanding knowledge and research in his role as Director of the Nebraska Biomechanics Core Facility and Coordinator of Research and Creative Activity at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) College of Education. He also serves as professor in the Department of Environmental, Agricultural and Occupational Health Sciences at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), and at UNO’s School of Health, Physical Education

and Recreation (HPER).

Early this month, the Nebraska Biomechanics Core Facility will move from its makeshift laboratory in the classrooms at the UNO HPER building next door to a new $6 million facility dedicated to biomechanics research and education.

Also this month, Dr. Stergiou will help host about 700 fellow biomechanics scientists and researchers during the annual American Society of Biomechanics conference, Sept. 4 to 7 at the CenturyLink Center in Omaha. Ribbon-cutting ceremonies for the new UNO biomechanics building will coincide with the conference.

The new building is the culmination of 17 years of phenomenal achievement for Dr. Stergiou and his fellow scientists and students at UNO. Rather than a destination, however, the 23,000-square-foot facility – UNO’s first building devoted to research – is another new beginning.

“Science is fascinating,” Dr. Stergiou says. “Coming up with new experiments is a way to satisfy the investigative desire people have.

You look back to explorers like Captain Cook and Ferdinand Magellan. As scientists studying biomechanics, we don’t look to the stars

• Quality living at an affordable price • Licensed nurse and certified staff on duty 24 hours a day • Located in scenic downtown Omaha

Dr. Nicholas Stergiou, director of the Nebraska Biomechanics Core Facility and Dr. Sara Myers, an assistant director of the NBCF, outside the program’s new $6 million facility that will open on the UNO campus during September. or set out for a new piece of land, we explore how people move.

“We combine our love of science with a desire to help people. Along the way, we satisfy our curiosity. And there is still so much that we are curious about.”

B

iomechanics is the study of the human body in motion. The scientists who study the

• Medication administration and daily living assistance • 10 spacious floor plans with large closets • Numerous educational, social, spiritual and wellness programs

Contact Saint Joseph Tower Assisted Living Community to learn more.

www.stjosephtower.com 2205 S. 10th St.

Page 10

•

Omaha, NE 68108

New Horizons

(402) 952-5000

•

field apply principles from mathematics and engineering to examine the forces that act on the body and the effects they produce. It is a key area within the realm of exercise science.

Research at the Nebraska Biomechanics Core Facility (NBCF) at UNO has led to a new understanding of human movement such as how people stand, walk, and physically interact with their environments. For example, research in cerebral palsy and peripheral arterial disease has influenced the treatment and therapy options available to people living with these disabilities.

Scientists at the core facility have developed new technologies such as the wireless Gait-O-Gram, a biomedical instrument designed to measure a person’s walking parameters and transmit information remotely for collection and study.

Other current research efforts include robotic assisted surgery, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, stair negotiation, the identification of fall risk, and other issues facing older adults.

The NBCF utilizes many older adults as volunteers in the research, both those who are prone to falls and those who have no history of falling so that the two groups can be compared.

Dr. Stergiou says there are many studies underway at the core facility that examine conditions affecting older adults, including: • Walking Impairments

September 2013

in Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD): For the past seven years, the study has examined how cholesterol blockages in the legs can eventually lead to difficulties in walking because of pain and/or cramping. The research is important to improving treatment options, rehabilitation, and slowing the progression of the disease.

“We have found that drugs are really not doing that much good when it comes to helping improve the way these patients walk,” Dr. Stergiou says.

“That is because it is actually the muscle that is being affected over time. It is that muscle weakness that needs to be addressed.”

• Robotic Rehabilitation in Chronic Stroke Survivors: This project examines the use of virtual reality and an upper extremity robot to improve rehabilitation in patients who have suffered a stroke.

• Lateral Stepping: During healthy walking there is greater variability in a person’s side-to-side movement than in the movement front to back. This study intends to investigate how the amount of variability is affected if walking occurs in the side-to-side direction using a lateral stepping training program.

“We are now harnessing this lateral stepping as a training therapy to improve normal gait,” he says.

The simpler the therapy that can be developed, the more likely it is people will actually do it, he says. “We --Please turn to page 11.

Stergiou: UNO could become world’s top biomechanics program --Continued from page 10. are all about developing easy things people can do at home. Anything you can do on your own in your living room has great potential.

“People want to stay in their homes and live independently as long as they possibly can. That is our goal, too, and we sleep well at night knowing that we are helping.”

r. Stergiou was on a path to Omaha long before he realized. He was an undergraduate student at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece – one of the largest universities in the world with an enrollment of 81,000 – studying exercise science when he selected “the biomechanics of sports shoes” from a list as the subject for his bachelor’s thesis.

“I always loved physics and sports,” he says.

“I played hoops (basketball), too. Immediately I became passionate about the subject. I accumulated all the literature I could. Articles. Books. I wrote letters to people for information.”

He also wrote a thesis that wowed his professor.

“He told me, ‘Nick, you go to America to continue your education.’ I said, ‘If you turn me upside down and shake me, nothing will fall from my pockets.’”

A low-income student who lived with his mother and brother, Dr. Stergiou began writing to universities throughout the U.S. concentrating on those conducting research on sports shoes.

He wrote to UNO, to Kris Berg, Ph.D., who had written a paper on shoe inserts. “He was kind enough to write me back,” Dr. Stergiou says.

Although UNO had no doctoral program in biomechanics, it did have a master’s degree program. Dr. Stergiou came to UNO and earned his master’s in 1991. He went on to the University of Oregon to earn his Ph.D. in 1995 before returning to Greece, where he served a mandatory one-year stint in the Greek Army. “I was the only person I knew with a Ph.D. who was operating mortars,” he says.

A call about a job opening at UNO led to a phone interview with someone he had impressed during his master’s studies: Daniel Blanke, Director of the School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation in the College of Education.

D

Like Dr. Stergiou, Dr. Blanke had earned his Ph.D. at the University of Oregon.

Offered the job, Dr. Stergiou came to UNO as an assistant professor in 1996. He was uncertain how long he would remain here – until he met the woman who would become his wife on a hayrack ride in Council Bluffs. “Meeting Ann pretty much sealed the deal about staying.”

The workload when he started was daunting.

“I was teaching three courses per semester, plus I had to conduct research,” he recalls. “I used a small room about 900 square feet as a laboratory, with two teaching graduate assistants as my staff.”

“The new building

will increase our recruiting opportunities for new students and faculty, and help to build our collaborations around the world.”

Over the next 17 years, the size, scope, and significance of the work grew tremendously. The core facility grew to 9,000-square-feet of space – even taking over the teachers’ lounge for experiments. The number of staff increased to nearly 30 people, with nearly all the positions funded through grants.

Dr. Stergiou has earned more than $10 million in grants from NASA, the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation, and many other agencies and foundations.

“For several years now, my laboratory has led the university in number of grant submissions,” he says. “In my role as the Coordinator of Research and Creative Activity at the College of Education, I have led my College from 44 to 69 external submissions and from $11.4 million to $23.3 million dollars within two years, 2010 to 2012.”

Dr. Stergiou says he and his team “write grants like machines. We submit 100 in order to get five

Research at the new 23,000 square-foot NBCF will focus on a variety of issues facing older adults including walking impairments and stroke rehabilitation.

September 2013

•

Dr. Stergiou said the NBCF is very fortunate to have Dr. Myers – a UNO graduate – on its staff. or 10. It’s like basketball. The more you shoot at the hoop, the more baskets you are going to make.”

Each grant that is accepted is a victory. “It is very gratifying when our research is so accomplished that we get money for it,” he says. “It also indicates the quality of our research. A lot of people at a very high level, the top of the top, think a lot of us and our work.”

Sara Myers, Ph.D., and Mukul Mukherjee, Ph.D., serve as assistant directors of the NBCF. Dr. Mukherjee has been with the NBCF since 2007. His undergraduate degree is in physical therapy from Delhi University in New Delhi, India. He completed his doctoral studies in biomechanics, motor control, and rehabilitation sciences at the Kansas University Medical Center. Five years ago, he came to do his post-doctoral work at the NBCF. “He is so gifted I was determined to keep him as a faculty member,” Dr. Stergiou says.

Dr. Myers grew up in Hampton, Neb., working in the fields beside her father on the family farm. After earning her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in exercise science at UNO, where she played basketball, she obtained her Ph.D. from UNMC in 2011.

“I met Sara when she was 19,” Dr. Stergiou recalls. “She was brilliant as an undergraduate – an A-plus, -plus, -plus student. She maintained a 4.0 through her master’s and Ph.D. studies. We are very fortunate to keep her here.”

In just her second year at the NBCF, Dr. Myers obtained a four-year grant worth more than $800,000 from the Veterans’ Affairs Rehabilitation Research and Development Program to study and conduct a gait after intervention trial in peripheral arterial disease. She says the new NBCF research building will increase the opportunities to positively impact people’s lives.

“The big advantage will be space,” she says.

“Not just more space, but the way the space is designed. We will be able to accommodate more students, and they won’t be competing so much for time on the equipment.”

For Dr. Stergiou and his fellow scientists, the exciting journey is far from over.

“The new building will increase our recruiting opportunities for new students and faculty, and help to build our collaborations around the world,” he says. “We have one of the best programs in biomechanics in the world, and I believe we have the potential to be the very best program in the world.”

He has traveled a very long way to prove it.

New Horizons

•

Page 11

Book debunks some dieting myths

WHITMORE LAW OFFICE

W

e’re not No. 1 anymore. Mexico, according to the U.N. Food and Agricultural Organization, has surpassed the United States as the fattest nation in the world.

An estimated 70 percent of Mexico’s population is overweight, and about onethird of Mexicans are obese.

Just one fat-related disease, diabetes, accounts for nearly 70,000 Mexican deaths per year.

Wills • Trusts • Probate

Ask A Lawyer: Q — What is the difference between a will and a living trust?

A — A will states your desires for your property at your death, but can’t avoid the time and expense of probate, which can leave your loved ones in limbo for some time. It also doesn’t provide any protection if you become unable to care for your property. With a trust, you remain in control unless you become incapacitated, at which point the trust provides management of your assets for your benefit until you recover.

guide to looking younger, debunks some of the myths that aren’t helping dieters: Myth: Thirty minutes of exercise three times a week is sufficient. Moderate exercise may work for the 25-year-old with a reasonably healthy diet. When we are young, our basal metabolic rate (BMR) rages like a furnace. Unfortunately, our BMR decreases 2 to 3 percent each decade after age 25. That means we have

“Our overweight and obese percentages are neck and neck with Mexico’s, and some of this is due to misinformation.”

Have a question about estate planning? Give us a call!

AARP Legal Service Network • No Charge For Initial Consultation

7602 Pacific Street, Ste 200 • (402) 391-2400 http://whitmorelaw.com

“But this doesn’t mean our health to the north has gotten better – it just means others have gotten worse, and the dubious distinction of who is the world’s most obese nation is debatable,” says Dr. James L. Hardeman, who has seen firsthand the consequences of unhealthy habits during his 30 years as a practicing physician.

“For one, we’ve been fatter longer than Mexico has and yet we still haven’t sufficiently dealt with our national epidemic of fat-based disease. Our overweight and obese percentages are neck and neck with Mexico’s, and some of this is due to misinformation.”

Dr. Hardeman, author of Appears Younger than Stated Age, a pragmatic

Lot 92 • 2 bed 1 bath $12,000

Lot 263 • 2 bed 2 bath …$6,500

to make up for that decrease with either better eating habits, more exercise, or both – if we want to maintain a healthy weight. For those who are older, overweight, or obese, a stronger commitment is necessary, including an hour’s worth of exercise at least five times a week.

• Myth: Gaining weight with age is healthy because it’s natural. Metabolism slows with age, causing many to put on the pounds.

However, maintaining your Ideal Body Weight (IBW), which factors in height, gender, and frame size, will keep you feeling and looking younger if you don’t slowly gain weight over time. Also, casually accepting some weight gain over time can lead to massive

Your home.Your care.Your pace.

D L O S

Your home is best and Immanuel Pathways can help you continue living there for as long as possible.

Lot 316 • 2 bed 2 bath …$14,000

Our program provides a comprehensive system of health care. The model of service is PACE: Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly.

Our program includes primary, acute and long-term health care as well as day therapeutic and recreational services and transportation. Services are provided in the home, in the community and at our PACE Center.

For complete program details and benefits, please call 402-991-0330.

Lot 41 • 2 bed 1 bath Double Wide…$10,000 5755 Sorensen Parkway | Omaha, NE 68152 | www.immanuelpathways.org PACE participants may be fully and personally liable for the costs of unauthorized or out-of-PACE program services. Emergency services are covered. Participants may disenroll at any time.

Page 12

•

New Horizons

weight gain considering our largely sedentary lifestyles and easy availability of quick, fatty meals.

• Myth: You should drink at least eight glasses of water per day. Humans posses a sensitive thirst center in a part of the brain called the hypothalamus, which responds to dehydration and tells us to drink water. The amount of water needed for each person varies; so we don’t need to

•

September 2013

target a set amount because our thirst will tell us. However, drinking plenty of water may decrease appetite, and water should always be chosen over sugary beverages for satiating thirst.

• Myth: Diet books keep you slim. Going on a diet is one of America’s favorite pastimes. Diets typically entail temporarily altering eating patterns, losing a bit of weight, and then going back to old habits. This has created an entire genre of literature, as well as videos, gear, and meal plans that have become a multibilliondollar industry. Really, it all boils down to the I & O (Intake and Output) principle.

People who stick to Atkins, South Beach, and the Sugar Busters diets lose weight because they limit the intake of calories.

Myth: Taking vitamin supplements every day makes you healthy. Dietary supplement sales represent a $20 billion a year business, yet the 1994 Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act allows for significantly more lenient rules for supplements than medications from pharmaceutical companies, which are carefully scrutinized by the FDA. Manufacturers are not required to substantiate the supposed benefits of their products. A balanced diet generally provides all the required vitamins and minerals needed, with the possible exceptions of vitamin B12 for those who eat no animal products, folic acid for women of childbearing age, and, if blood tests indicate deficiency, vitamin B12 and vitamin D for older adults.

Good Bears of the World donates Teddy bears to older adults in ENOA’s Senior Care Options program

M

ichelle Watkins, representing Good Bears of the World, recently donated several Teddy bears to older adults in the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging’s Senior Care Options program.

“When I found myself in a position to donate some of the bears, I knew I wanted to gift to both children and the elderly,” said Watkins who is also a volunteer with ENOA’s SeniorHelp Program.

Founded in England in 1969, Good Bears of the World is designed to spread love and caring to youngsters and older adults who need comfort.

The organization has donated thousands of Teddy bears that have helped eased the fears and trauma of lost and abused children, accident and natural disaster victims, and lonely older men and women, according to Watkins.

The Senior Care Options program works with older Nebraskans who are considering admission to a nursing facility and need Medicaid to pay for the needed care. SCO counselors evaluate the clients’ needs and determine whether nursing facility, inhome, or community-based care is the most appropriate for those individuals.

SCO is a joint effort of ENOA and the

R

Monday, Sept. 2 CLOSED LABOR DAY

Tuesday, Sept. 17 Cheeseburger

Tuesday, Sept. 3 Pork Dijon

Wednesday, Sept. 18 Cheesy Lasagna Rollup

Wednesday, Sept. 4 Soft Shell Beef Taco

Thursday, Sept. 19 Beef Chili Macaroni

Thursday, Sept. 5 Salisbury Steak w/Gravy

Friday, Sept. 20 Open Fried Chicken Leg

Friday, Sept. 6 Meatballs w/Mushroom Gravy

Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.

Through ENOA’s SeniorHelp Program, persons of all ages volunteer to provide direct services that help older men and women in ways that support dignity and independence in daily life.

“I’d like to thank Good Bears of the World for its generous donation,” said Janelle Cox, director of ENOA’s Senior Care Options program. “I will make sure each bear will make its way to a worthy home.”

Gerontechnology advances focus of Passion & Purpose conference at U. of Nebraska Omaha on Oct. 20, 21 ecent advances in gerontechnology are the focus of the Aging with Passion & Purpose: Aging Well in the Age of Technology, a biennial conference being held Sunday, Oct. 20 and Monday, Oct. 21 on the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s Dodge Street campus.

“Gerontechology is technology in the form of products, services, and interventions that enhances the quality and way of life of aging individuals by ensuring good health, full social participation, and independent living,” said Melanie Kiper, community service associate in UNO’s Center for Public Affairs Research.

“The current cohorts of elders, those 65 and older, have been part of the greatest revolution in technology,” said Dr. Julie Masters, conference chair and chair of the UNO Department of Gerontology. “They lived during the information evolution from radio to television to microwave ovens to iPhones.”

The conference will open on Oct. 20 with a presentation by R. Benjamin Knapp, Ph.D. Dr. Knapp is the director of the Virginia Tech Institute for Creativity, Arts, and Technology.

Other speakers will include: • Rev. Chris Alexander of the Countryside Community Church in Omaha.

• Leta Powell Drake, a long-time Nebraska media figure, who is with the Nebraska Broadcaster’s Hall of Fame.

• Nick Stergiou, Ph.D., from the UNO Nebraska Biomechanics Core Facility.

• Deepak Khazanchi, Ph.D., associate dean for academic affairs at UNO’s College of Information, Science, and Technology.

• Jeremy Lipschultz, Ph.D., from UNO’s School of Communication.

“Baby boomers are among the fastest growing group using social network sites,” said Lipschultz. “It’s important to understand social media as a growing business

ENOA menu for September 2013

that targets older people. I’ll be exploring how this is done in order to expand audience members’ media literacy skills.”

“We will be using Twitter before and during the conference so people can share their conference experiences,” said Ilze Zigurs, former chair of UNO’s Department of Information Systems and Quantitative Analysis. “We will use YouTube to share video clips prior to the conference to highlight key events during and after the conference to share experiences.”

In addition to these keynotes, the conference will offer theme-related breakout sessions, an opportunity to talk one-on-one with experts in the older adult industry, a live broadcast of the interactive web-based program Darkwood Brew, and a tour of the new Biomechanics Research Building on the UNO campus (see pages 10 & 11).

“Our primary audience will be aging professionals, nursing home and hospital administrators, healthcare providers, service providers, researchers, designers, builders, caregivers, educators, and students; however, all are welcome,” said Kiper.

Register for the conference by visiting www.unomaha.edu/app2013.

Early registration is $75 for both days, $25 for Sunday only, and $50 for Monday only. Interested parties can take advantage of early registration until Oct. 1, after which registration is $100 for a single day or both days, or $120 for a single day or both days with the inclusion of earning Continuing Education Unit credits.

For questions about Aging with Passion & Purpose: Aging Well in the Age of Technology, contact Cathy Wyatt at 402-6619611 or by e-mail at cwyatt@artofaginginc. com.

For questions about the UNO Department of Gerontology, contact Charley Reed, UNO’s media relations coordinator, at 402-554-2129 or by e-mail at unonews@ unomaha.edu.

September 2013

Monday, Sept. 23 Meatloaf w/Gravy

Monday, Sept. 9 Sloppy Joe Tuesday, Sept. 10 Herbed Pork w/Brown Gravy Wednesday, Sept. 11 Roast Beef w/Brown Gravy

Tuesday, Sept. 24 Pork Loin w/Mushroom Gravy Wednesday, Sept. 25 King Ranch Chicken Casserole

Thursday, Sept. 12 Crunchy Pollock

Thursday, Sept. 26 Chili Dog

Friday, Sept. 13 Turkey Breast w/Gravy

Friday, Sept. 27 Western Baked Beef

Monday, Sept. 16 Apple Glazed Pork Patty

Monday, Sept. 30 Spaghetti Casserole

Free access to legal information is available to older Nebraskans Legal Aid of Nebraska operates a free telephone access line for Nebraskans age 60 and older.

Information is offered to help the state’s older men and women with questions on topics like bankruptcy, homestead exemptions, collections, powers of attorney, Medicare, Medicaid, grandparent rights, and Section 8 housing.

The telephone number for the Elder Access Line is 402827-5656 in Omaha and 1-800-527-7249 statewide.

This service is available to Nebraskans age 60 and older regardless of income, race, or ethnicity.

For more information, log on the Internet to http://www. legalaidofnebraska.com/EAL.

One in four Americans will develop foot complications due to diabetes.

Properly fitted shoes are essential for reducing these risks.

Wear Diabetic Shoes To Prevent Foot Complications!

Medicare may reimburse for 1 pair of diabetic shoes and 3 pairs of shoe inserts per calendar year if qualifying conditions are met.

Diabetes Supply Center accepts assignment – we’ll bill Medicare and supplemental insurance for you!

Many styles available!

Diabetes-Supply.com

•

New Horizons

•

NH4/13

Page 13

‘Poetry Across the Generations’ submissions are due March 5

S

ubmissions for the 2014 Poetry Across the Generations competition – sponsored jointly by the University of Nebraska at Omaha, the Omaha Public Library, and the Omaha Public Schools, are due

by Wednesday, March 5.

The annual event features separate contests for poets in grades 7 through 12 and poets age 50 and older. Participants are asked to write two poems each: one about life as a teenager and another about life as a person age 60 or older.

Prizes of $100, $50, and $25 for first, second, and third places, respectively will be awarded. Seven honorable mention finishers will receive $10 each.

Winning poets can collect their cash prizes at a Sunday, March 23 poet recognition reception at UNO’s Milo Bail Student Center from 1 to 3:30 p.m. The event will include poetry readings, refreshments, and intergenerational poetry dialogue.

All contest entrants are also invited to an Intergenerational Poetry Slam at UNO’s Milo Bail Student Center on Sunday, March 30 from 1 to 3:30 p.m.

Adult poetry submission may be sent to Cindy Waldo, Sigma Phi Omega, Department of Gerontology, CB 211, University of Nebraska at Omaha, 6001 Dodge St, Omaha, Neb. 68182-0202 or online to www.omahapoetsplace.net.

Teen poets may submit their poetry to Omaha Public Library, Bess Johnson Elkhorn Branch, Attn: Karen Berry, 2100 Reading Plz., Elkhorn, Neb. 68022 or online to www.omahapoetsplace.net.

For more information, contact Cindy Waldo at cwaldo@unomaha.edu.

ENOA volunteer opportunities

T

he Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging’s Foster Grandparent Program, Senior Companion Program, Ombudsman Advocate Program, and Senior Medicare Patrol Program are recruiting older adults to become volunteers.

Foster Grandparents and Senior Companions must be age 55 or older, meet income guidelines, have a government issued identification card or a driver’s license, able to volunteer at least 15 hours a week, and must complete several background and reference checks.

Foster Grandparents and Senior Companions receive a $2.65 an hour stipend, transportation and meal reimbursement, paid vacation, sick, and holiday leave, and supplemental accident insurance.

Foster Grandparents

work with children who have special needs while Senior Companions work to keep older adults living independently.

Ombudsman advocates work to ensure residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities enjoy the best possible quality of life.

Ombudsman advocates, who must be age 18 or older, are enrolled through an application and screening process. These volunteers, who are not compensated monetarily for their time, must serve at least two hours a week.

The Senior Medicare Patrol program helps Medicaid beneficiaries avoid, detect, and prevent health care fraud. These volunteers, who are enrolled through an application and screening process, are not compensated monetarily for their time, For more information, please call 402-444-6536.

Maplewood Estates

}

Lifestyle • Community • Convenience • Family Values

Move-in Specials Get 6 months of FREE lot rent for moving a single wide home into the park, or $3,500 moving expenses.

Call for more information.

Amenities include: Playground Off street parking Clubhouse Pool

402.493.6000

Call: 12801 Spaulding Plaza www.maplewoodestatesonline.com Omaha, NE 68164

Page 14

•

New Horizons

•

Call 402-444-6513 to learn more

Discover what’s going on at any of ENOA’s 28 senior centers inside its five-county area

By Yvette Martin

S

eptember is National Senior Center Month across the nation and this month, the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging wants to recognize these facilities and the older adults who attend the centers.

Senior centers were introduced in the United States in 1943 in New York City to provide social activities, nutritious meals, and case management services to older men and women. Today, senior centers are recognized as one of the most widely used services supported by the Older Americans Act of 1965. Nationwide, there are approximately 14,000 senior centers serving 11 million older adults. Locally, ENOA has 28 centers in Douglas, Sarpy, Dodge, Cass, and Washington counties.

Each center is as diverse as the population it serves. If you like quiet spaces to read and do puzzles, hang out with the group at the St. Mary Magdalene Senior Center – 1817 Dodge St. – in downtown Omaha. Like boisterous games of bingo? Then head over to the Millard Senior Center at Montclair, 2304 S. 135th Ave. Want to learn how to use a computer and computer software? Visit the Fremont Friendship Center, 1730 W. 16th St., and get started.

Want to paint, carve wood, or work on ceramics? Then stretch your creativity at the Bellevue Senior Community Center, 109 W. 22nd Ave. Activities are just one thing the ENOA senior centers offer. Each provides a nutritious and filling midday meal. A few centers have evening meals complete with games and entertainment.

With all the diversity, there’s a similar theme with all centers: relationships. It all begins with the center managers who are hired for their compassion, caring, and welcoming attitudes. The managers go out of their way to make sure their “extended family members” are well cared for and living life to the fullest.

Many senior center participants have a special bond with the managers, and they sing their praises. Marjorie Vandenack says Susan Sunderman, manager of the Millard Senior Center at Montclair, is a “dynamo” that “makes all happy to be a part of Montclair.”

This sentiment is shared across the miles to the Fremont Friendship Center where Gary Bobbitt says its manager Laurie Harms is “one in a million.”

The managers are the heart of the centers but the participants are the soul. When you walk into a center, there’s often laughter, a sense of belonging, and friendship. The centers give the older adults a reason to get out of their homes to participate in activities, eat good meals, and create bonds with people.

Dean Gerdts from Fremont says following his wife’s death, he began volunteering at the Fremont Friendship Center. After speaking to some friends who visited the site, Dean decided to stop by as a participant rather than as a volunteer. He says it was the “best decision” he ever made.

Fremont Friendship Center participants enjoy a variety of speakers on topics including nutrition, health education, legal concerns, and scam awareness.

Gerdts says there’s so much to do at the center. There are very few “discontented”

September 2013

older adults and he, among many others, leaves the center with a smile on his face.

Fremont’s Harold Miller had to be away from the center after surgery and during his recovery time, he kept wondering how soon he could return. Harold and his wife, Carol Panning, say the center feels like home.

Many of the ENOA senior centers offer chair volleyball, an activity that’s modified for older men and women. The participants sit in chairs and hit a beach ball over a net.

Some centers have become so enthralled with the game they have tournaments with other centers. Millard’s team even has its own t-shirts (aka uniforms) and these men and women are proud of their abilities on the court.

Marjorie says she enjoys playing chair volleyball because it makes her feel young.

Participants at the LaVista Senior Center, 8116 Parkview Blvd., and the Corrigan Senior Center, 3819 X St., are also part of the chair volleyball tournament rotation. These older men and women really look forward to visiting the other centers to meet new friends and to feel young again.

Widows, widowers, singles, and married couples enjoy the family-like atmosphere at the ENOA centers but there are also other family members present. Fremont’s Mabel and Gary Bobbitt are a mother and son duo.

Gary says even though his mother is 98 years old, she still enjoys the many activities at the center and even volunteers once a week watering the indoor plants. She also leads the Pledge of Allegiance before lunch.

Gary says they’re fortunate to be able to attend a “nice facility” that’s clean and which has so many activities. “Mom lives alone, (is) nearly blind, (her) hearing is bad, but at the center she gets at least one good, nutritious, balanced meal.”

He’s also happy his mom has “friends to play cards and games with.” Mabel even plays chair volleyball. Gary has enjoyed his time so much at the center that he recently joined the Fremont Senior Board so he can have a say in what happens at the facility.

Another aspect of life that can be difficult for older adults to manage is feeling a sense of purpose. The centers often fill that need with volunteer opportunities. Carole and Bob say volunteering is an important part of what the center means to them. Even though the volunteer jobs aren’t too difficult, they believe their efforts are appreciated and volunteering gives them a deeper belonging to the center. The volunteer positions include helping in the kitchen, organizing the library, watering plants, and running craft boutiques.

Another way the participants can volunteer is to join a board or an advisory council. The participants can also attend the meetings to share opinions, thoughts, ideas, or concerns.

The centers add variety to the participants’ lives, provide good food, and help forge new friendships.

“What else could you ask for?” says Millard’s Barbara Langin.

Please take a moment to find a center close to you so you can visit. When you do, plan on staying a while.

More information can be obtained by calling 402-444-6513 or by visiting www. enoa.org.

(Martin works in ENOA’s nutrition division.)

Located at 2304 S. 135th Ave.

Senior Health Fair on Oct. 18 at the Millard Senior Center

Y

ou’re invited to attend the Fall Senior Health Fair on Friday, Oct. 18 from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Millard Senior Center at Montclair, 2304 S. 135th Ave. The event will feature nurses providing blood sugar level checks, pharmacists to take blood pressure readings and to talk about the hazards of high blood pressure. Flu shot vaccinations and a talk on eating properly by an Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging nutritionist will also be included.

Participants age 60 and older are welcome to stay for an 11:30 a.m. lunch at the center. The suggested donation for the meal is $3. Meal reservations – which need to be made by noon on Thursday, Oct. 17 – can be made by calling 402-546-1270.

For more information, please call 402-444-6513.

Programs on Alzheimer’s disease scheduled for September, October

Bellevue Community Senior Center Please join us at the Bellevue Senior Community Center, 109 W. 22nd Ave. The center is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Thursday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

A continental breakfast is served Thursday at 8:30 a.m. with donated bread available to take home.

We serve an evening meal Thursday at 6 p.m.

Other fun activities include chair volleyball, Bunco, Canasta, Ping-Pong, billiards, and Dominoes.

A vegetable truck stops by Tuesday at 10 a.m. to sell fresh produce.

A foot clinic – by reservation only – provided by the Sarpy/Cass Health Department starts on Sept. 26 from 1 to 3 p.m.

The Bellevue Senior Community Center’s annual spaghetti dinner fundraiser will be held on Friday, Oct.18.

The center’s monthly newsletter, menu, and activity calendar can be found online at www.bellevueseniorcommunitycenter.com.

For more information or to make a meal reservation, please call 402-293-3041.

Book offers Christian guide to joyful aging

C

oncordia Publishing House has recently released a book that is designed to answer the question: What can we do about aging?

Called Joyfully Aging: A Christian’s Guide, the 246-page trade paperback is written by Richard Bimler, former president of Wheat Ridge Ministries.

According to an overview on the book’s back cover; Joyfully Aging: A Christian’s Guide is about celebrating God’s gift of aging instead of complaining about old age. It’s about aging as a blessing and affirming life as a gift from God despite our worries, woes, and wrinkles.

For more information on ordering a copy of Joyfully Aging: A Christian’s Guide, go to www.cph.org or call 1-314-268-1000.

• Sept. 28: Protecting Your Assets: What to do When the Forecast Calls for Rain with representatives from Financial Visions, LLC. • Oct. 7: Family Dynamics: How Do We Talk With Our Kids with Matt Mainelli from Home Instead Senior Care.

• Oct. 14: Community Resources: Industry Bestsellers with Michaela Williams from Care Consultants for the Aging.

• Oct. 21: Your Plan B: A Reality Check for Caregivers with Cathy Wyatt from Financial Visions, LLC. For more information, please call 402-661-9611.

You’re invited to attend a six-week series of free programs titled Alzheimer’s Disease: The Bridge to Acceptance on Saturdays from Sept. 14 through Oct. 21.

The 10 to 11:30 a.m. programs will be held at 1055 N. 115th St., Suite 200.

Here’s the schedule of programs: • Sept. 14: Alzheimer’s Disease: The Road to a Diagnosis with Grace University adjunct professor, caregiver, and wife Terry Johnson.

• Sept. 21: Legal Documents: What if Something Happens to Me? with Niel Nielsen from the Carlson Burnett Law Firm.

THE PARKSIDE Independent apartment living for persons age 55+ • Spacious 1 & 2

bedroom apartment homes • Elevator • Washer/dryer in

every apartment • Garage included in rent • Beautifully landscaped grounds • Within walking distance of Ralston Park

THE PARKSIDE

• Emergency alarm system • 24-hour emergency maintenance • Controlled access entry • Community areas on every floor • Microwave • Icemaker • Window blinds furnished

Call today to view your new home in the park!

7775 Park Drive • Ralston, Nebraska

402-339-9080

September 2013

•

New Horizons

•

Page 15

RSVP Retired and Senior Volunteer Program The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program is recruiting persons age 55 and older for a variety of opportunities. For more information in Douglas, Sarpy, and Cass counties, please call 402-444-6536, ext. 224.

In Dodge and Washington counties, please call 402721-7780.

The following have volunteer opportunities in Douglas, Sarpy, and Cass counties: • The Disabled American Veterans/VA Medical Center needs volunteer drivers.

• Good 360 is looking for respite volunteers to process donations and sort items.

• The Douglas County Health Center wants volunteers for a variety of

assignments.

• Together Inc. is looking for an intake assistant and for a volunteer to coordinate communication efforts.

• Keep Omaha Beautiful/Helping Hands, Inc. wants volunteers for onetime yard cleaning projects.

• The Omaha Police Department needs volunteers for its telephone response unit. Spanish speaking volunteers are especially needed.

• The American Red Cross wants volunteers for a variety of duties.

• Creighton University/ Student Support Services needs volunteers to provide support services and as math tutors.

• Alegent Creighton Health Bergan Mercy Medical Center is looking for volunteers for its gift shop, flower shop, and other areas.

The following has a volunteer opportunity in Dodge County: • The Fremont Car-Go Program needs volunteer drivers.

Please see the ad on page 3

NH Club adds new members $50 Howard Roberts Robert & Mary Erickson $25 R J Krupa $10 Louise Drabek $5 George Anderson Tom Matteson Marjorie Sambasile Participants needed for a COPD Research Study IRB # 397-11 A clinical outcomes study to compare the effect of Fluticasone Furoate/Vilanterol Inhalation Powder 100/25-mcg with placebo on survival in subjects with moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and a history of or an increased risk for cardiovascular disease.

(Protocol HZC113782) Do you have COPD and a history of cardiovascular disease?

The University of Nebraska Medical Center is conducting a clinical trial of an investigational medication for people with emphysema. The study drug combines a long-acting beta-agonist with corticosteroid in a single inhaler.

You may be eligible if you: • Have a diagnosis of moderate COPD. • Have a history or risk of heart disease.

• Are between 40 and 80 years of age.

• Are a current or former smoker.

You will receive an investigational study drug or placebo, & study-related medical and study procedures at no charge.

Please call Sandy Talbott at 402-559-6365 or email her at stalbott@unmc.edu if you are interested in participating in this study.

Page 16

•

New Horizons

Being prepared for a move to a nursing home can help alleviate stress for the individual, loved ones and physical condition. new home. You’ll need to • Negative tuberculosis disclose financial informatest (TB) or chest x-ray: tion (and provide docuMoving to a nursing Nursing homes need to mentation) on insurance home can often come at a make sure all residents don’t enrollments, pension funds, time of stress for both the retirement funds, assets, and individual making the move have or don’t carry this enrollment in Medicare or and their loved ones. Being communicable disease.

• Completed paperwork Medicaid. They’ll also need prepared for such a move for admission to the care to know information about can help alleviate some of your current living situation. the stress during the process. community: This paperwork can often be filled out If you or a loved one is in on the day of the admission the hospital at the time of usually with a nursing home a move to a nursing home, staff member. The individu- the hospital physicians will al or their guardian/power of perform the first four items attorney may be required to on the checklist. If not, it’s sign several forms consentimportant to visit a primary ing to the nursing home’s care physician to complete policies and treatment. As these items.

Individuals may move to part of the application proBeing prepared in advance a nursing home for a varicess, a Social Security card of a move to a nursing home ety of reasons. They may may be needed. could be extremely benefineed the care provided in a • Completed financial cial for you or a loved one. nursing home that an indeobligations: This step Although there are many pendent or assisted living makes sure you’re able to stresses associated with facility cannot provide. making a move to a nursing They may also have recently pay for the care you’ll be receiving. The process is home, navigating the admisexperienced a fall, a serision process shouldn’t be ous illness, or surgery. Even similar to providing financial information for obtainone of them. if a nursing home move is ing a mortgage; in both (Vogt is with Midwest planned and expected, it’s Geriatrics, Inc. in Omaha.) often a good idea to be pre- cases, you’re moving to a pared before the time arises.

The nursing home will VAS recruiting vols to review have a staff member assigned to helping you naviguardian, conservator reports gate the process of a nursing home admission. However, Volunteers Assisting Seniors (VAS), a local nonprofit knowing what will be asked organization, is seeking volunteers to review the required of you or your loved one annual reports submitted by guardians and conservators will help you be ready to and report any discrepancies to the court. answer questions and comThis opportunity is ideal for someone with an interest plete paperwork. in working with numbers and a desire to assist the court By being prepared with in determining if the finances of vulnerable individuals the following information, are being managed in their best interest. the transition to nursing For more information, contact VAS at 402-444-6617. home living can be much smoother: Alzheimer’s disease Midlands chapter • Physician’s order for admission: A doctor must hosting support group, spaghetti dinner confirm that a patient actuThe Midlands Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Disease Asally needs nursing home care. This order is similar to sociation hosts a new support group the last Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Ridgewood Active Retirement writing out a prescription.

Community, 12301 N. 149th Cir. in Bennington.

• Physician’s order for For more information, please call Betty K. Chin at 402treatment and medication: Since you’ll have new 502-4301.

A spaghetti dinner will be served at Ridgewood on caregivers, they need to Thursday, Sept. 12 from 5 to 7 p.m. The meal will include know how to best provide spaghetti with meat or marinara sauce, breadsticks, salad, your care. and a beverage. The cost is $8 for adults and $5 for chil• History and physical: The nursing home will need dren ages 12 and younger. The proceeds benefit the local the most up to date informa- Alzheimer’s disease chapter.

Please RSVP to Krista or Hannah at 402-884-7644. tion on your medical history

By Jen Vogt

Florence AARP group meets third Monday of month Individuals age 50 and older are invited to attend the meeting of AARP’s Florence chapter the third Monday of each month.

The gatherings are held at Olive Crest United Methodist Church, 7180 N. 60th St. at noon.

The sessions include friendly people,

a meal for $7, a short meeting, and programs on a variety of topics.

For more information or to arrange for a ride, please call Ann Van Hoff at 402556-3576, Marjorie Willard at 402-8401, or Ruth Kruse at 402-453-4825.

Here’s the schedule for the rest of 2013:

September 16 Picnic

November 18 Aprons With Judy Meyers

October 21 Transylvania & Unitarians With Janet West

•

September 2013

December 10 Christmas Music

‘Knuffle Bunny’ at The Rose Sept. 6 to 22 The hilarious musical version of Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical – the beloved Caldecott Honor book by Mo Willems – will be on stage at The Rose Theater, 2001 Farnam St., Sept. 6 to 22.

Trixie, a pre-verbal toddler, her Dad, and Knuffle Bunny, the girl’s favorite toy, head off to the Laundromat one day. Shortly after loading the washing machine and heading for home, they realize Knuffle Bunny is missing.

Dad returns to the Laundromat, battles the garments that are Kung Fu masters,

and rescues the toy from the washing machine.

“Kids can relate to the sorrow of a favorite stuffed animal being lost, and more importantly, not being understood and feeling powerless,” said director Susann Suprenant. “Parents can relate to the frantic pace that raising kids can induce and how growing together as a family makes it all worth it.”

Performances of the 60-minute show are Fridays at 7 p.m., Saturdays at 2 and 5 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m.

Tickets, which are $18, can be reserved by calling 402345-4849 or online at www.rosetheater.org.

Think green if remodeling your home

T

here has never been a better time to renovate your home and its surroundings green, given the abundance of earthfriendly building material choices as well as contractors well-versed in energy and resource efficiency.

Many homeowners don’t realize they can save money in the long run, despite the up front costs, by choosing materials and strategies that will lower utility bills and reduce maintenance and replacement costs moving forward.

For starters, look for building materials that contain post-consumer or postindustrial recycled content that can be easily recycled later. Also, make sure the materials are sustainably sourced such as wood certified as sustainably harvested by the Forest Stewardship Council. And try to minimize the distance any building materials need to travel to help reduce overall greenhouse gas emissions.

In areas of the renovation that are not a complete teardown and re-build, tighten things up by plugging holes, patching, or replacing roofing or siding as needed and adding weatherstripping around doors and windows.

Switch out older singlepane windows with more efficient modern double or triple pane styles. This can pay for itself in energy savings within a few years while improving comfort.

Also replace or add insulation to walls, attics, and other spaces to keep heat inside and cold out and vice-versa.

You can save lots of energy by swapping out old appliances with newer models that qualify for the U.S. Environmental Protec-

tion Agency’s EnergyStar label. Such appliances must be 20 to 30 percent more energy efficient than standard models, and will reduce not only your carbon footprint but also utility bills.

For guidance on how to renovate as sustainably as possible, check out the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC’s) Green Home Guide, a free online resource which bases its recommendations on its Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) guidelines for certifying “green” buildings. This site allows users to ask an experienced contractor questions on sustainable materials and techniques or find green home professionals nearby qualified for larger green renovation jobs.

Another valuable resource is the REGREEN website, a joint project of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) and the USGBC, which offers case studies for green remodeling projects, interactive tools, and basic

guidelines written so even do-it-yourselfers can understand.

A REGREEN Strategy Generator widget can provide tailored tactics for specific green remodeling projects. For example, if you enter the parameters ‘bathroom’ and ‘water efficiency,’ the widget might suggest the installation of faucet aerators and low-water-use showerheads, reports USGBC. Talking over projects and options with a design professional at a retail green building supply store can also help homeowners source cutting edge materials that will save energy and money in the long run.

Green Building Supply, which offers an extensive free online learning center, will ship a wide range of green building materials anywhere in the U.S. (EarthTalk® is written and edited by Roddy Scheer and Doug Moss and is a registered trademark of E - The Environmental Magazine.)

AARP is offering driving class AARP is offering a four-hour course on safe driving.

The class is designed to teach older drivers how to boost safety awareness, refresh and improve their driving skills, and minimize crash risks.

There are no exams or tests involved. Participants will receive a certificate of completion. Insurance discounts may apply.

The class cost $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-AARP members.

Here’s the course schedule for this month:

Friday, September 13 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Metropolitan Community College Elkhorn campus 204th Street & West Dodge Road Class ID #: AUAV-004N-72 Call 402-457-5231 to register

September 2013

Lewy Body Dementia Support Group meeting is scheduled for Sept. 17

T

he Metro Omaha Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) Support Group will meet on Tuesday, Sept. 17 at 1 p.m. at the Millard branch of the Omaha Public Library, 13214 Westwood Ln. LBD is a group of progressive brain diseases that are the second leading cause of degenerative dementia

among older adults, affecting more than 1.3 million American families.

More information about Lewy Body Dementia is available online at www. lbda.org/go/awareness.

For more information about the support group, please log on to annt88@ cox.net or call Ann Taylor at 402-452-3952.

‘Because Life Happens’ series available in September, October

A

six-week series of classes designed to help prepare men and women for the unexpected will be available during September and October.

Called Because Life Happens, the programs will be presented by Geneva James, the series’ co-creator.

The sessions are scheduled for: • Sept. 10 through Oct. 15: Tuesdays from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at EngAge Wellness, 38th Avenue and Leavenworth Street.

• Sept. 10 through Oct. 15: Thursdays from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at 1055 N. 115th St., Suite 200.

• Sept. 13 to Oct. 18: Fridays from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at 1055 N. 115th St., Suite 200.

To RSVP or for more information, call 402-827-5547.

Please support New Horizons advertisers Respite Education & Support Tools program offering training for providers on Sept. 27

T

he Sarpy Cass Department of Health and Wellness, Partnerships in Aging, and the Nebraska Respite Network are offering respite provider training as part of the Respite Education & Support Tools program.

The next training session is scheduled for Friday, Sept. 27 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (lunch will be provided) in a meeting room at the Sump Memorial Library, 222 N. Jefferson St. in Papillion.

The Respite Education & Support Tools program assists individuals in becoming effective volunteer respite workers by learning the three key steps of support: prepare, care, and connect.

Participants will learn how to: • Understand what a family might need or expect from them when caring for their loved one.

• Identify and respect the family caregiver’s and care recipient’s needs, preferences, and privacy.

• Provide a meaningful experience for the care recipient.

• Ensure a safe and healthy environment.

• Connect with the care recipient.

The course, which costs $15, will be presented by Elizabeth Chentland, M.P.H. from Partnerships in Aging.

To register or for more information, please call 402339-4334, ext. 209 or send an e-mail to nevans@sarpy. com by Sept. 20.

Home Aide, LLC Our caring staff assists older people to live independently in their own home by helping them with the tasks of everyday living.

For more information, call

(402) 504-3535 homeaidellc.net

•

We are locally owned & operated, which makes our rates more affordable.

New Horizons

•

Page 17

Do

you

about

?

have questions

aging services

in Douglas, Sarpy, Dodge, Cass, or Washington counties?

Log on to

enoa.org

The Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging’s Web site includes information about: • • • • • • • • • • •

Bath aides Care management Chore services Community education Durable medical equipment Emergency food pantry Emergency response systems ENOA facts and figures ENOA Library ENOA senior centers Grandparent Resource Center

24 hours a day, • Homemakers 7 days a week!

• Information & assistance telephone lines • Intergeneration Orchestra of Omaha • Legal services • Meals on Wheels • Medicaid Waiver • New Horizons • Nutrition counseling

• • • • • • •

Ombudsman advocates Respite care Respite Resource Center Rural transportation Senior Care Options Senior employment Support of adult day facilities • Volunteer opportunities

We need your

! t r o p p su

Traditional funding sources are making it more difficult for ENOA to fulfill its mission. Partnership opportunities are available to businesses and individuals wanting to help us.

These opportunities include volunteering, memorials, honorariums, gift annuities, and other contributions.

I would like to become a partner with the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging, and help fulfill your mission with older adults.

ENOA

$30 = 7 meals or 1.75 hours of in-home homemaker services or 1 bath aide service for frail older adults. $75 = 17 meals or 4.75 hours of in-home homemaker services or 4 bath aide services for frail older adults. $150 = 35 meals or 9.5 hours of in-home homemaker services or 8 bath aide services for frail older adults. $300 = 70 meals or 19.25 hours of in-home homemaker services or 16 bath aide services for frail older adults.

Other amount (please designate)__________________________ Please contact me. I would like to learn more about how to include the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging in my estate planning.

Report shows many Nebraskans lack easy access to dental care

A

healthy smile is more than just appealing. It’s one of the greatest indicators of overall health. Improper oral care can lead to pain, tooth loss, infection, or even cancer.

Unfortunately, a report released recently by the Center for Health Policy at the University of Nebraska Medical Center indicates in many areas of the state people don’t have easy access to a dentist.

“The state of Nebraska designates 48 (of its 93) counties as general dentistry shortage areas and 20 counties don’t even have a dentist,” said Jim Stimpson, Ph.D., director of the Center for Health Policy in the UNMC College of Public Health. “Even more alarming, the study found there has been a steady decline in the number of practicing dentists in the state over the last five years.”

The American Dental Association estimates dental issues contribute to 164 million lost work hours and 51 million lost school hours annually.

“Many of those issues can be prevented if caught early through annual checkups,” said Kim McFarland, D.D.S., a professor with the UNMC College of Dentistry and coauthor on the study.

But, for many Nebraskans, an annual checkup isn’t so easy to arrange when the nearest dentist is two hours away, Dr. Stimpson said.

On average there are 55 dentists for every 100,000 people in the state, the report found. Of the 1,028 Nebraska dentists in 2012, 53.6 percent of them practiced part-time and only 39.2 percent practiced in a rural area.

What’s even more concerning is that some of those rural practitioners are getting ready to retire, Dr. McFarland said.

“The need is so great we have dentists who are in their 70s and 80s who are still practicing,” she said.

In Nebraska counties where there are few or no dentists, people turn to their local medical provider, health clinic, or emergency room for care. Often those practitioners aren’t fully equipped to address their dental needs.

“More often than not people wait until they are in pain to seek care and often by then it is an abscessed tooth that needs to come out,” Dr. McFarland said. “At this point, the patient is given an antibiotic for the infection and pain pills.

Some clinics even have pamphlets indicating where the nearest public health dental clinic is located in the state.”

McFarland said the study outlined several possible solutions: • Giving dental hygienists a wider range for preventive and basic practice such as allowing them autonomy to provide sealants and cleanings to patients. Currently, Nebraska state law allows them to obtain a public health permit.

• Utilizing practice sites of other providers such as a pediatrician’s office or health clinic, where a dental hygienist could provide preventive care.

• Increase the number of dental college graduates.

• Increase the student loan reimbursement rate for those dentists who would agree to practice in a shortage area for a period of time.

• Flouridated water.

Some of these options would work, Dr. McFarland said, and others such as increasing the number of graduates wouldn’t, simply because the two dental schools in the state are already at capacity.

Fifteen years ago the state began offering a reimbursement for students of $80,000 over four years. However, it hasn’t kept up with the rising cost of tuition to attract students to the program she said, as the average student loan debt is more than $200,000.

(UNMC’s Department of Public Relations provided this information.)

Please ma il with thisyofour donation rm to: Eas

tern Office oNebraska n Aging Address:___________________________________ Attention : Jef Name:_____________________________________

City:______________State:_____ Zip: __________ Phone:____________________________________

Page 18

•

New Horizons

f Reinha 4223 C rdt Omaha, enter Street NE 6810 5-2431 (402

) 444-665

4

•

September 2013

Book examines long-term care industry Delia Franklin, a registered nurse in Nebraska, has written a book that provides an overview of the nation’s long-term care industry and features discussions on death and dying, rehabilitation processes, elder abuse, Alzheimer’s disease units, the physician’s role, and how corporations, middle management, and direct care providers operate within the elder care/medical profession.

Called Nursing Homes Explained, the book is available through Algora Publishing, Barnes & Noble, and Amazon.

Ignoring cataract signs may lead to physical, psychological damage

T

NARFE meetings

T

he National Association of Retired Federal Employees’ Chapter 144 meets the first Wednesday of each month at 11:30 a.m. at the Amazing Pizza Machine, 13955 S Plz. For more information, please call 402-333-6460.

he American Academy of Ophthalmology is urging older adults and their caregivers to be aware of the dangers of ignoring the symptoms of cataracts, a leading cause of visual impairment that will affect more than half of all Americans by the time they’re 80 years old. Delaying diagnosis and treatment of agerelated cataracts can increase older men and women’s risk Someday this button might save of permanent blindness and can lead to both physical and psychological damage. your life. For now, it sets you free.

Cataracts are caused by the clouding of the eye’s With Lifeline by Immanuel, you can enjoy an independent lifestyle in your lens and are most common among older adults. Many older he National own home—knowing that you can get help if you ever need it. In a fall or men and women cope with cataracts – accepting vision Association of emergency, every second counts. Lifeline by Immanuel with AutoAlert is a loss as an inevitable part of the aging process rather than Retired Fedmedical alert pendent that can automatically call for help, even if you can’t seeking medical treatment. eral Employpush your button. Getting you connected to someone with access to your medical history, someone who can evaluate your situation and immediately Due to the incapacitation caused by blurred vision, ees’ Aksarben Chapter send help. To learn more about the security and peace of mind provided leaving cataracts undiagnosed and untreated can lead to 1370 meets the second

by Lifeline, call (402) 829-3277 or toll-free at (800) 676-9449. physical danger such as injuries from falls or running into Wednesday of each unseen objects, as well as psychological harm like depresmonth at 11:30 a.m. at sion and social isolation. the Amazing Pizza MaIn addition, the longer advanced forms of cataracts are chine, 13955 S Plz. left untreated, the more difficult it can be to successfully For more information, repair the damage caused to the eye. please call 402-392-0624. www.immanuellifeline.com Men and women age 65 and older should have regular eye exams to monitor the development of cataracts, in addition to other common eye conditions and diseases such as Please call 402-444-4148 age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma. or 402- 444-6654 People with diabetes, a family history of cataracts, and to place your ad those who smoke tobacco are at an increased risk of developing cataracts. Common symptoms such as dull, blurry viOLD STUFF WANTED Lamplighter II Nebraska a Office on POOL Aging TABLES • 4223 Center Street • Omaha, NE 68105 sion, colors appearing less vibrant, and Eastern halos around lights, (before 1975) Moving, refelting, assemble, repair, Some of the nicest, newer 1 bedroom may begin to be noticeable as cataracts develop.

Postcards, photos, drapes, tear down. Used slate tables. apartments. Elevator, w & d, heated Cataracts are nearly always treatable with surgery, which lamps, 1950s and before fabrics, We pay CASH for slate pool tables. parking garage. Small complex. By bus clothes, lady’s hats, & shopping. No pets or smoking. may not be necessary until performing daily activities Big Red Billiards & men’s ties, pictures, pottery, 93rd & Maple • 402-397-6921 becomes difficult. If daily life isn’t disturbed, a change 402-598-5225 glass, jewelry, toys, fountain in a person’s eyeglass prescription may be all that’s necespens, furniture, etc. sary until visual impairment becomes more severe.

A+ Heartland FOR SALE Call anytime If completing everyday tasks is challenging, cataract 402-397-0254 or 402-250-9389 Concrete Const.

Electric wheelchair, Driveways, garage floors, surgery should be discussed with an ophthalmologist − a two manual wheelchairs, Please support sidewalks, retaining walls. medical doctor specializing in the diagnosis, medical and New Horizons advertisers and one bath chair. patio specialists. surgical treatment of eye diseases and conditions.

Call 402-637-6051 Insured/references.

“Seniors who find themselves giving up normal tasks Tree Trimming 13 year BBB Member like reading, exercising, or driving due to cataract sympBeat the TOP CASH PAID toms should know they do no not need to suffer in silence,” 402-731-2094 falling leaves!

Best & honest prices said Rebecca Taylor, M.D., spokesperson for the American paid for: Chipping & removal.

Academy of Ophthalmology.

August 26, 2013 Old jewelry, furniture, Your prunings chipped. deFreese “Cataract surgery can help theseBurton individuals regain their glassware, Hummels, Lynette Experienced & insured. sight and their independence. is 64th one of the most knick-knacks, old hats & Manor 6615ItN. Plaza, Apt. common 21 Senior discount. and safest procedures performed in medicine, so seniors purses, dolls, old toys, quilts, Omaha, NE 68152 Subsidized housing for should not resist seeking help.

Getting treatment can vastly linens, buttons, pottery, etc.

T

CLASSIFIEDS

PAID THROUGH March 2013

those age 62 and over Also buying estates improve your quality of life.” with incomes Lynette, & partial estates.

For people without regular access to eye care or for under $25,450 at 402-339-2856 Here’s your ad forathe classified for Bev the September issue. Please let whom cost is a concern, EyeCare America, public ser- sectionCall (1 person) me know if this is okay,Academy or if you have any changes, give me a call vice program of the Foundation of the American or $29,100 of Ophthalmology, offers eye exams and care at noyour out of BUYING @ 402-444-4148 or mail check for $40.00 to: (two persons) pocket cost to qualifying persons age 65 and older through or 2669 Dodge Newacross Horizons its corps of nearly 7,000 volunteer ophthalmologists SELLING? Omaha, NE the U.S. c/o Jeff Reinhardt, Editor 402-345-0622 To learn more about EyeCare America or to find outCenter if 4223 Street Use the New Horizons you or a loved one qualifies for the program, visit Omaha, NE 68105 SUPPORT NH ADVERTISERS! www.eyecareamerica.org.

CLASSIFIEDS

Thanks!

Diabetes classes, support group Mitch Laudenback @ Center New Horizons The Diabetes Education of the Midlands is offering classes and support groups this month: • Sept. 9 to 12: Diabetes management course from 5 to 9 p.m. on Sept. 9 and 5 to 8 p.m. Sept. 10, 11, and 12.

• Sept. 14: Living Well With Diabetes support group from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

• Sept. 17: Insulin pump therapy and a continuous glucose monitoring fair from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

• Sept. 18 & 25: Pre-diabetes class from 4 to 6 p.m. on Sept. 18 and 5 to 6 p.m. on Sept. 25.

• Sept 24 & 26: Basic skills self-management from 5 to 8 p.m. each evening.

The classes and support groups will be held at the DECM office, 2910 S. 84th St. To register or for more information, please call 402399-0777, ext. 230.

Call 402-444-4148 or 402-444-6654 to place your ad

REPUTABLE SERVICES, INC.

LEND A HAND

In-Home Non-Medical Senior Care

• Safety Equipment Handrails Smoke and Fire Alarms

Accepting applications for HUD-subsidized apartments in Papillion & Bellevue. Rent determined by income and medical expenses.

• Painting Interior & Exterior

Medicaid Waiver Certified and private pay. CPR & First Aid Certified. An affordable helping hand when needed. Dedicated to helping families in need.

• Free Estimates

Monarch Villa West 201 Cedar Dale Road Papillion (402) 331-6882

• Senior Discounts

Bellewood Courts 1002 Bellewood Court Bellevue (402) 292-3300

• References • Fully Insured

Managed by Kimball Management., Inc.

Quality Professional Service Better Business Bureau Member

402-686-6200

September 2013

402-996-8444 or echentland@gmail.com Senior Citizens (62+)

• Handyman Services

lendahand01@yahoo.com Now accepting applications.

Interested in providing respite care for people with a disability?

Contact the Respite Resource Center today to learn more.

• Remodeling & Home Improvement

Services include: • Home care • Skilled nursing care • Hospice • Alzheimer’s care services

“Making a difference one step at a time” Licensed and insured Please call for more information:

402-894-9206

402-4 5 5-7 0 0 0

•

We do business in accordance with the Fair Housing Law.

New Horizons

•

Page 19

PIA is working to address the needs of older adults, their families

By Elizabeth Chentland

P

artnerships in Aging is a non-profit organization dedicated to the thoughtful growth of programs, services, and community partnerships that assist in supporting older adults and their families.

In partnership with area governmental, quasigovernmental, non-profit, academic, and business organizations, PIA strives to engage adults and children alike in focusing efforts and attention to the senior com-

munity, and addressing gaps in services.

One of PIA’s initial goals was the design of a program that would build partnerships with businesses and industry to support employees with caregiving responsibilities for both children and aging parents.

PIA also was successful in assuming the coordination of initiatives such as the PIA Network, the Metro Area Study of the Aging Population in 2005, the Decision Accelerator for Older Adults in 2007, and

Symphony offering ticket packages for its Joslyn Series of Sunday concerts The Omaha Symphony is introducing a special ticket package for groups of 10 or more older adults to its series of concerts at the Joslyn Art Museum, 2200 Dodge St. The $35 per person package includes a ticket to the concert, museum admission, a pre-concert lecture, plus lunch featuring your choice of a sandwich, wrap or salad, or ½ sandwich and small salad, or ½ sandwich and bowl of soup, or ½ wrap and small salad, or ½ wrap and bowl of soup plus a drink of your choice, and dessert.

The Joslyn Series concerts are Sundays at 2 p.m. The doors open at noon, so you can arrive, have lunch, tour the museum, attend the 1 or 1:25 p.m. art/music lecture, then relax in the Witherspoon Concert Hall at 2 p.m. with the Omaha Symphony in concert. These concerts are open seating, so you can sit anywhere you wish.

Here’s the schedule of concert dates: • Sept. 29: Bach, Haydn, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 2.

• Nov. 10: All Stravinski.

• Jan. 12: Saint-Saens, Ravel, and Barber’s Adagio for Strings.

• Feb 23: Shostakovich and Saint-Saens’ Carnival of the Animals.

• March 23: Berstein, Gould, and Brahms Serenade No. 2.

• May 18:Vaughan Williams, Respighi’s Birth of Venus.

For more information, please call 402-342-3836, ext.

121 or go to djohnson@omahasymphony.org.

The Partnerships in Aging staff (left to right): Kay Sharpels, Elizabeth Chentland, and Janet Miller. the Continuum of Care for Older Adults project.

PIA continues to sponsor the PIA Network and other community efforts to meet the needs of older adults through collaborative efforts.

In September 2012, PIA began managing the Respite Resource Center that focuses on assisting caregivers of individuals with disabilities to locate respite providers, respite funding, and available training programs. The Respite Resource Center leadership team also provides Powerful Tools for Caregivers training and Respite Education and Support Tools (REST) training in Douglas and Sarpy counties, both of which are evidencebased training efforts focused on caregiver health

and wellness.

In August 2013, PIA began managing the Grandparent Resource Center in close collaboration with the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging. This program focuses on supporting grandparents raising their grandchildren through support groups, pantry services, transportation, legal advice, and respite.

In addition, PIA developed a community outreach initiative in August 2013 to address hot topic issues facing older adults and their families. In collaboration with more than 20 organizations in Douglas and Sarpy counties, PIA will co-sponsor 20 events in the next year on a wide variety of topics including chronic care management, home

Active Living Embark on an active lifestyle at Hickory Villa!

With social and recreational activities, it’s an adventure every day.

• Spacious Floor Plans • Compassionate Care Staff Available 24/7 • Enriching Activities and Outings • Pets Welcome • Beautifully Landscaped Grounds • Transportation Available Call to schedule a tour today!

For more information, visit our website at: www.BethesdaSeniorLiving.com

Hickory Villa • Assisted Living 7315 Hickory St. Omaha, NE 68124

(402) 392-0767 • www.BethesdaSeniorLiving.com Page 20

•

New Horizons

•

September 2013

safety, hospice, respite care, legal issues caregivers face, wellness workshops, and much more.

Further expansion is planned to better support and engage caregivers of older individuals with disabilities, as well as other intergenerational projects that teach children and young adults about aging and encourage intergenerational mentorship.

For more information about PIA programs and services, available community resources, and/or upcoming trainings and community presentations, please visit the Partnerships in Aging website at www. piaging.com or call 402996-8444.

(Chentland coordinates the PIA program.)

Eclectic book review series begins Sept. 17 The Eclectic Book Review Club, in is 64th season, begins its fall series of reviews on Sept. 17 at the Omaha Field Club, 3615 Woolworth Ave. A noon lunch will be followed by the 12:30 review.

• Sept. 17: University of Nebraska at Omaha professor John Price and Daddy Long Legs, the Natural Education of a Father.

• Oct. 15: University of Nebraska Lincoln professor Andrew Jewell and The Selected Letters of Willa Cather.

• Nov. 19: Creighton U. professor Eileen Wirth and From Society Page to Front Page: Nebraska Women in Journalism.

The cost of the luncheon is $13. For reservations, call Rita at 402-553-3147.