GENERATIONS A Quarterly Publication of
Cascades West Senior & Disability Services, Local Senior Centers, and RSVP
? ? ? ? ? Question of the Quarter
January * February * March * 2015
What’s Inside?
Cover Photos by Jo Wienert jofotos.com
* Gingerbread Houses * Question of the Quarter * Men’s Health Screenings * Gifts for Elders A PUBLICATION OF THE NEWS-TIMES
1 - Generations January * February * March * 2015
INDEX
Question of the Quarter...................................................... 2 Responses to Last Issue’s “Question of the Quarter” .................3 Remember the “Dimpled Chad?” ..........................................4 Puzzles.............................................................................5 Gifts for Elders ..................................................................6 Christmas Shopping ...........................................................7 Gingerbread Houses ...........................................................7 Volunteers Needed..............................................................8 Dear Aunt Sadie.................................................................9 Puzzle Answers ..................................................................9 Walking for Fitness ..........................................................10 Powerful Tools for Caregivers .............................................10 Healthcare Highlights ....................................................... 11 Lonnie the Logger Asks: Remember the Edsel? ...................... 11 Men’s Health Screenings ...................................................12 The Chocolate Classics Tradition is Alive and Well ..................12 The PEARLS Program Helps Fight Depressio .......................12 R.S.V.P.’s Positive Changes for 2015 .....................................13 Recipe- Tuscan Bean & Pasta Soup ......................................13
Generations A Quarterly Publication of
Cascades West Senior & Disability Services, Local Senior Centers, and RSVP Scott Bond, Senior & Disability Services: www.ocwcog.org 541-812-6008 Mary K. Fitzmorris, Senior & Disability Services: www.ocwcog.org 541-574-3762 Alicia Lucke, RSVP: www.rsvpoflincolncounty.org 541-574-2684 Peggy O’Callaghan, Newport Senior Center: www.newportoregon.gov/sc 541-265-9617
203 N Main Street Toledo, OR 97391 For more information
Phone: 541-336-2289 E-mail: MFitzmor@ocwcog.org 2 - Generations January * February * March * 2015
? ? ? ? ? Question of the Quarter
Generations is starting a new feature that we hope our readers will enjoy. Each quarter there will be a question posed in Generations and we would like you to submit your answer to this question. Several answers will be selected (depending on size) and published in the next quarter’s edition of Generations. If you would like to submit questions to be used in future issues, please do so. To submit your answers and questions, either email: mfitzmor@ocwcog.org and put “Generations Question of the Quarter” in the subject line or mail to: Mary K Fitzmorris, Senior & Disability Services, 203 N. Main St., Toledo, OR 97391.
Next issue’s question is: “What is a fond memory of your childhood?”
The responses to last issue’s Question of the Quarter are on page 3
ADRC Aging & Disability Resource Connection Need help but don’t know who to call? Looking for information but don’t know where to find it? Concerned about your parents, grandparents, sibling, neighbor but unsure what programs are available to help? Senior and Disability Services in Lincoln, Linn and Benton County has a fully functioning Aging & Disability Resource Connection call center available to take your call Monday through Friday, from 9 am – 11:45 am and 1 pm – 4:45 pm. Your call will be answered live by a friendly voice that can assist you in getting answers to your questions. This is a free service that offers the public a single source for information and assistance on issues affecting older people and people with disabilities regardless of income. To connect with the local ADRC office either come in to our Lincoln County Office located at 203 N Main St in Toledo, call us at 541-336-2289 or 1-855-ORE-ADRC (673-2372) or visit our website at www.ADRCof Oregon.org.
Responses to Last Issue’s “Question of the Quarter: “How did you make your first dollar?” Last issue, Generations asked this question. Perhaps we should have asked, “For first nickel? Lincoln City’s Frank King, 91, Lonnie “the Logger” Headrick, 87, and Gordon Bushman, 70, all worked for nickels. Eight years old in 1931, King sold magazines on the streets of Los Angeles for a nickel. “I got to keep one cent per sale. In a good week I might net 10 cents,” Frank remembered. “Later, I bought Hearst’s Herald Examiner newspapers for three cents and sold them for a nickel on the street,” he added. (A nickel in 1931 had the value of 83 cents today.) “A man would come to town and buy Chittum Tree and bunches of ferns, around 1940,” Lonnie said. “He’s pay us kids a nickel for a pound of tree bark and a nickel for each bunch of ferns. He took the bark to pharmacists in the Valley who, using an old Indian recipe, boiled the bark and it made a pretty good laxative. He required 52 good healthy ferns in a bunch so I always pick a few extra,” Lonnie explained. “He took them to the Valley to sell to florists and funeral homes.” Gordon Bushman earned his first nickel
? ? ? ? ? Question of the Quarter
walking a neighbor’s dog. “I still remember the dog”, Gordon said, “and I still have that nickel! The dog was a black Cocker Spaniel named Rowdy, he added. Most the women I talked with earned their first dollar babysitting. Joann Kangiser Schneider baby sat for a relative and got 50 cents. “That’s 50 cents total,” she said with emphasis. “It was 50 cents whether it was two hours or all day! Patsy McLean did better at 35 cents an hour. “There were three little devils I called Huey, Dewy and Lewey” she explained. “Plus they expected the dishes to be washed and the kitchen clean.” My big sister, Ruthie McNamara, 81, felt twice- lucky to get a job at a soda shop for 65 cents an hour. “We felt lucky as the going rate for babysitting in mid1950s was 60 cents an hour. Mick McLean
When I was 10 or 11 years old, I lived in a small town in North Dakota. Our neighbor, Kate, was involved in the local Homemakers Club. They raised money by selling cookbooks. One year, in the mid-fifties, they came up with the idea of selling another kind of book, called “Garden Gimmicks.” Kate was much too busy to be bothered with selling a gardening book door to door so she commissioned me to do it for her. I was a shy child and I begged my mother not to make me do it. But Kate’s husband was my dad’s boss at the Plant and Mom didn’t want to make any waves that might affect my dad’s job. So off I went selling the book. Mom was my first customer. I don’t remember how many doors were shut in my face but it was discouraging. Some ladies actually looked through the book before declining to buy it. I had only one
other sale that I remember. She was a very old lady who didn’t garden anymore but bought a book anyway because she felt sorry for me, knowing how hard it is to sell anything door to door. I never forgot the kindness of the old woman. Kate gave me $1.00 for my trouble. I have never sold anything door to door since. Sandy Amsden Newport
Sixty years ago at the age of tem, I made my first dollar selling snow cones. My parents were always hard workers and expected their children to be the same. My dad and mom bought a milk delivery truck and modified it to become a snow cone truck. My dad had his job and having a snow cone business was my mom’s job. For many years, every May through September, she would drive up and down many streets in our
town and other nearby towns. There was a music box that played melodies over a loud speaker to let everyone know that the snow cone truck was coming up their street. Everyone called mom “The Snow Cone Lady”. At the end of the day Mom parked the truck in front of our house. She never sold on the streets nearest our home, saving those customers just for me. The doorbell would ring and it was my job to wait on all the neighborhood children. I would put the ice in the cup, insert a straw, and then pour on the flavoring right up to the top. We had two sizes; ten and fifteen cents each. I could make fifty cents to a dollar or so every evening. Many times I would give them for free. Orange, lime, grape, rootbeer, cherry and strawberry; they were delicious, syrupy flavors that I have never forgotten. As the years went by, Mom purchased a second truck. When I turned sixteen and had my driver’s license, I drove the truck on my own route by myself. To me this was not a job. It was fun and I had finally become “The Snow Cone Lady” too! Carol Botelho Waldport
Generations January * February * March * 2015 - 3
Remember “Dimpled Chads?”? by Mick McLean made me feel good, espeDriving to Newport, and cially by telling me other feeling somewhat embar- dumb things people do with rassed, my mind wandered their ballots. For example, and settled on the word switching a ballot envelope “Chad”. Up until the 1980 with a spouse, and signing election, the only Chad I the wrong one. knew was the actor Chad According to Oregon SecEverett as Dr. Joe Gannon. retary of State’s Office, I However, in the wasn’t the only spirit of “Every one to forget, Vote Counts!” smear, switch, we were overor stain, etc., whelmed with a ballot to the media coverpoint it would age of the final be “chalhours of the Florida counter tries lenged”, i.e., 1980 Presiden- to determine if a set aside and a tial Election be- Chad is dangling or postcard sent. tween Bush and dimpled. After Election Gore as countDay 13,000 ing dangling, dimpled, or Oregonians had signature three-point hanging chads problems, three because became an obsession. they used a hand stamp. On We were driving to New- November 18, the deadline port because I received an day, 11,441 still needed to invitation from the County fix the signature on their enClerk’s Office. It advised velope, including the three me that I had forgotten to hand stamped signatures. sign my signature on the Further evidence of the outside envelope. I had until “Every Vote Counts” was November 18th to come by in Polk County where close the Elections Office, with counting went down to the identification, and sign. wire. In another Lincoln Since every civics class County (Kentucky) two loI ever had and my par- cal elections were settled ents drummed the “Every with a coin toss. Yes, every Vote Counts” duty into my vote does count. My thanks soul, I arrived at the office to the Lincoln County and apologized. The la- Clerk’s Office for alerting dies were quite upbeat and me so my vote counted! Adeo In Home Care Serving Lincoln County with Over 35 Years Experience Nurse supervised care by compassionate caregivers who have been screened with ongoing education. We offer help with Personal grooming, dressing homemaking, cooking, transportation and assistance with transfers, walking, special diet needs, physical therapy and medication management. Let us help you with your health care, so you can stay in your home. A Medically Based Home Care Company with Nurse supervision available up to 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
541-574-8660 or 541-961-7741
Locally owned & operated, our office is located at
644 SW Coast Hwy, Ste. G Newport, OR 97365 4 - Generations January * February * March * 2015
The AARP® Auto Insurance Program from The Hartford Now available through your local Hartford independent agent!
Call for your free, no-obligation quote. Find out more about benefits like Accident Forgiveness, a Disappearing Deductible, Lifetime Renewability, and our Competitive Rates! This auto insurance is designed exclusively for AARP members - and is now available through your local agent!
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The AARP Automobile Insurance Program from The Hartford is underwritten by Hartford Fire Insurance Company and its affiliates, One Hartford Plaza, Hartford, CT 06155. CA License #5152. In Washington, the Program is underwritten by Hartford Casualty Insurance Company. This Program is provided by The Hartford, not AARP or its affiliates. Paid endorsement. The Hartford pays a royalty fee to AARP for the use of AARP’s intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. AARP membership is required for Program eligibility in most states. Applicants are individually underwritten and some may not qualify. Specific features, credits, and discounts may vary and may not be available in all states in accordance with state filings and applicable law. The Program is currently unavailable in Massachusetts, Canada and U.S. Territories or Possessions. ¹In Texas, the Program is underwritten by Southern County Mutual Insurance Company, through Hartford Fire General Agency. Hartford Fire Insurance Company and its affiliates are not financially responsible for insurance products underwritten and issued by Southern County Mutual Insurance Company.
You could hardly choose a more inviting place to enjoy your new retirement life than at Oceanview Senior Living in Newport, Oregon. Oceanview Senior Living offers a comfortable, quality lifestyle tailored to your individual needs, whether you seek active independent or assisted living. You’ll find engaging activities, thoughtful amenities and new friends. Plus, with month-to-month rents — without buy-in fees or leases — you have plenty of freedom to choose how and where you live today as well as in the future. A popular Oregon coastal town, Newport’s many charms include a scenic lighthouse, the bustling boardwalk at Nye Beach with its shops and cafes, a fine aquarium and the busy Newport Bayfront scene. With invigorating sea breezes, lovely landscaping and ambience that beautifully reflects our locale, our community is situated on an Agate Beach hillside affording panoramic views of the Pacific.
Why not stop by for a visit, discover all that we have to offer and enjoy the views? We’re confident you’ll love what you see.
541-574-0550 525 NE 71st St. Newport, OR 97365 Off Hwy 101 & NE Avery St.
Generations
Is Published in part by Senior & Disability Services A program of Cascades West Council of Governments
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON: • IN-HOME CARE • ADULT FOSTER CARE • OPI/ Family Caregiver • MEALS ON WHEELS • ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES • INFORMATION AND REFERRAL • COMMUNITY RESOURCES • MEDICAID LONG-TERM CARE • ADRC • RSVP • FAMILY CAREGIVER PROGRAM • OPTIONS COUNSELING
CALL 541-336-2289 OR 1-800-282-6194 TDD/VOICE in Lincoln County
541-967-8630 OR 1-800-638-0510 TDD/VOICE in Benton and Linn Counties
HERE IS A PLEASANT LITTLE GAME that will give you a message. It’s a numerical puzzled designed to spell out your fortune. Count the letters in your first name. If the number of letters is 6 or more, subtract 4. If the number is less than 6, add 3. The result is your key number. Start at the upper left-hand corner and check all of your key numbers, left to right. Then read the message the letters under the checked figures gives you. Generations January * February * March * 2015 - 5
Courtesy of Ronnie Bennett from her blog “Time Goes By – What it’s really like to get old” http://www.timegoesby. net [EDITORIAL NOTE: Supposedly it is conventional wisdom that it is hard to shop for old people. Not true. Not true at all, as the extraordinary length of this annual elders’ gift guide shows. (To see the complete list, please visit Ronnie’s blog) When I was a kid, my mother and her friends made jokes – unfunny, rueful jokes – about getting a vacuum cleaner as a birthday gift or a washing machine for Christmas from their husbands. (I’m pretty sure there have been numerous New Yorker cartoons on the subject over the years.) In the late 1940s and 1950s, those were extravagant purchases for young couples and would certainly be a help for women who did virtually all the housework in those days. But even though I was a little kid eavesdropping on the grownup ladies, it was easy to know that they would rather have a bottle of perfume, a silk blouse or a pair of pretty earrings. In past holiday gift suggestion lists, I have included a lot of practical
GIFTS FOR ELDERS 2014
aids for elders that help with the inevitable difficulties that accompany growing old. They are important especially for elders on tight budgets and they are repeated below from past years. But my mother and her friends preferred more fun-type gifts on holidays and they certainly had a point. With that in mind, my favorite stupid gift (so far) this year comes from the Hammacher Schlemmer catalog – an Indoor Flameless Marshmallow Roaster. But then I got to thinking that it would be a load of fun to make indoor s’mores when the grandchildren visit in winter so this might not be so silly after all. On the other hand, giving elders – many of whom have enough trouble downsizing - new “stuff” may not be the best idea. As with all gifts, you need to know the recipient. Good ideas don’t change much year-toyear so I’ve decided to repeat last year’s post with minor updates as seem necessary or useful.
more welcome that you might think. They free up money for food, clothing and medical needs. How about a basket – a big one – stuffed with a year’s supply each of hand soap, bathroom tissue, Kleenex, sink and
tub cleaner, flashlights, batteries in several sizes, paper towels, trash bags, kitchen sponges, half a dozen new dish towels, etc. If there is a cat or two, include a year’s supply of kitty litter or for dogs, a similar amount of pickup bags. Anyone KEEP IN MIND on a tight budget resents Even with my above ad- how much these necessimonition about fun ver- ties cost. sus practical gifts, I am GIFTS OF LOVE always concerned about AND TIME elders with small, fixed Mobility is an issue for incomes so items that seem too mundane to be some elders. They may classified as gifts can be have given up driving or
6 - Generations January * February * March * 2015
can’t walk as easily as they once did. So consider vouchers with the local taxi company. Prepare a certificate for a certain number of trips with you doing the driving during the year to the supermarket and other
shops your loved one likes. Throw in lunch or dinner when you do it and then help with toting everything into the house and storing it all. Tickets to the local movie theater or maybe the local theater group with of course, the taxi vouchers to match. Better, include tickets for yourself and go together. A supply of homecooked meals, individually wrapped and ready for the freezer. If you are handy around the house, check to see what fixes are needed
and commit to getting them done. Showing up regularly to do the laundry throughout the year can be a big help and it creates an opportunity for a regular visit and chat. Does someone you love need the lawn cut regularly? That’s a good gift for spring and summer along with other gardening help in the season and washing windows after winter is done.
SAFETY AND HOME One year, a reader mentioned night lights. If an elder lives alone, consider a personal medical emergency service. Also, installing grab bars in the bathroom is a good safety idea that is likely to be appreciated. A couple of readers have mentioned a collection of greeting cards for a variety of occasions and don’t forget the postage stamps to go with them. Help with writing notes and addressing cards is good for arthritic friends.
DON’T FORGET If you are giving practical gifts or home-made certificates for trips to stores or the movies or taxi vouchers, be sure to include a token physical gift, something to unwrap. It doesn’t need to cost much: a scented candle, a favorite candy, a pretty scarf, a bottle of wine.
by Sandy Amsden I know people who love to shop the big sales events and holiday shopping. They live for the excitement of racing for the bargains, listening to people scream at their tired children and elbowing other shoppers for that last pair of socks at Freddy’s. This is just not my idea of a good time. I’ve always hated Christmas shopping but shopping with Elmer has created a whole new dimension. We were living in a small town in the Valley the first year we were married. When the local department store decided to have a coat sale, Elmer trotted right down there. He was going to buy me a new coat for Christmas. He found the perfect coat but then decided I should see it first. We went down to see the coats together and he showed me the tan parka with fur around the hood. It was perfect. I always wear parkas and this was a nice one with a heavy duty lining. It was the lining that made me stop and think. Would I be too warm in this coat, living in the valley? I could wear my old parka. Maybe what I needed was a dressy coat to wear to church. Then we spotted the leather jackets - women’s leather jackets of various styles, including one that was mid-thigh. Oh that would look nice with a
Christmas Shopping pantsuit for church. I tried it on and decided it was just what I needed and only $60. Unheard of. We took the jacket to the counter and the sales lady rang it up........way over $100. Elmer told her that the sign read $60 but the sales lady said someone must have put it on the wrong rack. No, there were over a dozen such coats on the rack with the big sign. She went over to check and then informed us that the sign was wrong. Well, you still have to sell it to us for that advertised price or else it’s false advertising. She just walked away from us. We started to leave the store when Elmer turned around and went back to the counter and asked to see a manager. He was not going to be jerked around on this one. Elmer began ranting about all the money he has spent in that store for over 30 years and how they used to stand by the customer. Now their products and their services don’t mean a thing. There were at least 10 people standing in the checkout line watching the whole scene. The manager said, “OK. I’ll sell you the coat for $60.” Elmer said he would pay for it while I went back to the rack and picked up the coat. When I got back to the rack, the first sales lady had gotten a male sales associate to help her destroy the sign and move the coats. All the mid-thigh coats were gone and they
were arranging the shorter jackets, both working furiously. I asked where the longer coats were and she told me they were moving them because they were priced wrong. I asked where they were but she wouldn’t answer me. Elmer came over to see what the hold-up was and I told
him that they hid the coats and wouldn’t tell me where they were. I was near tears and my heart was racing. I didn’t know what to do next. Elmer began moving clothes and looking under the racks of women’s clothing. He found a pile of leather coats on the floor, thrown under a rack
of long dresses. He began pulling the coats back out from under the long dresses until he found my size. Then we walked out of the store carrying the coat, along with the sales receipt but not before Elmer had a few words for the saleslady and I don’t think they were “Merry Christmas.”
Generations January * February * March * 2015 - 7
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Volunteer Opportunities in Lincoln County
• AARP-SD (Smart Driver) program is actively looking for persons who would like to become volunteer instructors. Training is provided and classes are offered to the public monthly. You choose the dates you are available to teach. Eligible expenses will be reimbursed (mileage, travel, etc). There is a high need in Lincoln City area. Contact Don at 541-563-3074. • Friendly Visitor Volunteers are needed to help socially isolated seniors stay connected with their community and remain living independently in their own home. Volunteers can share a common interest or hobby, play board games, listen to music, or just chat with their Friendly Visitor client. Volunteers may also be asked to help the client run errands such as grocery shopping, haircut appointments, or going out for a cup of coffee. Volunteers must exude a willingness to be patient with Friendly Visitor clients and show compassion no matter the client’s situation. If this sounds like the right fit for you, contact Mona at RSVP, 541-574-2684. • Samaritan North Lincoln Hospital is seeking back-up volunteers to step in when needed in various areas, such as floor help and family assistance. Monday – Friday mornings, preferably, between 3 -4 hours daily. For more information, please contact Celeste at 541-996-7132. • SHIBA (Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance), a program of RSVP, is seeking volunteers to help serve Medicare recipients in Lincoln City and Waldport. Trained counselors help people in their community understand Medicare insurance choices and their rights through individual counseling, educational workshops, and referrals. Characteristics of successful counselors include dependable, patient, willing to learn, and enjoying helping others. Strong communication and computer skills are important. Training is provided. If you would like more information, contact Holly at 541-574-2684 or email rsvp@ocwcog.org. • Trans-Med (a program of RSVP) is looking for volunteers to drive seniors and people with disabilities to and from medical appointments within Lincoln County. Background check and valid driver’s license required. Volunteer drivers use their own car and must show proof of insurance. Mile reimbursements available through RSVP. For more information, contact Mona at RSVP at 541-574-2684. • Produce Plus in Newport is looking for volunteers to help out on Fridays from 1 to 3pm. For more information on volunteer duties, contact Nancy at 541-265-8578 • The Hatfield Marine Science Center is seeking Visitor Center volunteers who interpret marine science exhibits for the public, animal husbandry volunteers, and volunteers to work on exhibit repair/development. Their hours are 10:00am - 4:00pm Thursday through Monday. For more information, please call Becca at 541867-0226. • The Oregon Coast Council for the Arts is looking for Office volunteers to work once a week, full or half days, Monday - Friday between 9am and 5pm. Duties include: answering the phone, taking messages, mailings, greeting visitors, and selling tickets (includes learning our ticketing computer program). For more information call Polly or Jan at 541-265-2787 • Yaquina River Museum of Art needs volunteers to help in the exhibits and gift shop. Their hours are 12 noon – 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Contact Judy Gibbons at 541 336-2797 • Connie Hansen Garden - Host needed 4 hours on weekends, 10am - 2pm. Duties - Greet visitors to garden and encourage them to visit the gift shop. Record gift shop sales. Restock and water plants for sale. Answer phone. Provide membership information. Sweep shop and patio. Qualifications - Welcoming, friendly smile. Enjoy talking with visitors, Limited cash handling. Light lifting when moving plants. No Knowledge of plants necessary. • Connie Hansen Garden – Gardener needed Tuesdays between the hours of 10 AM and 2 PM. 4 hours per month required to qualify for permanent volunteer status. Duties: Clean-up and maintenance of garden beds and borders which may include any of the following: weeding, pruning, trimming and dead-heading, raking, planting, pest control and fertilization, hand watering, applying bark dust and soil amendments; digging and dividing perennials; potting up plants for sale; assisting at plant sales and chatting with garden visitors. New volunteers will work with experienced volunteers until they are familiar with the garden and its plantings. Requirements/Qualifications: An interest in gardening and learning about plants is preferred but we welcome anyone with a desire to work outside in a friendly, relaxing and beautiful environment. Ability to be on your feet for two hours, to be able to either bend or kneel, and to use small hand tools such as trowels or weeders, is required. Prior gardening experience not required, we will teach you. • Connie Hansen Garden - Special Event Planner - Approx. 4 hours a week. Varies. Independent of set schedule, requires following up on details as needed. Duties - Contact presenters and schedule events for 12 to 18 months into future. Gather information for marketing event. Provide information in writing to social media and event marketing volunteers. Organize details of event using existing procedures and check list form. Report results monthly, in writing, to board of directors. Requirements/Qualifications - Public relations experience a plus! Detail oriented with strong follow up skills. Self-starter with computer skills, who can work independently from home and communicate effectively via email. • Connie Hansen Garden - Special Events Manager – Schedule varies 4-8 hours a month. Saturdays. Occasionally, there is a Sunday or weekday event. Duties Person-in-charge the day of event. Set-up space as needed. Meet and assist presenters with set-up. Greet public. Introduce presenter to audience. Oversee sales of plants/books as related to event. Take down and clean up event. Requirements - Enjoy working with the public. Comfortable speaking before an audience. Light lifting. Limited money handling. Must be available regularly on Saturdays, once or twice a month.
For more information on volunteering please contact RSVP at 541 574-2684 8 - Generations January * February * March * 2015
umers with claims, appeals, and
Puzzle Answers
Dear Aunt Sadie Q & A series
Dear Aunt Sadie, My 93-year-old mother needs lots of help in the shower now. I’m no spring chicken either, and twice in the last month we have landed on the floor together, thankfully resulting in nothing more than bruises. Could Medicare Home Health pay my niece to give her bathing assistance? Except for church and twice-weekly mahjong, she doesn’t go out anymore. Daughter of Mahjong Mom
r for any of the following dates,
OCCC Newport 400 SE College Way
only when all four of these conditions are met and appropriate referrals made. 1. The person is under the care of a physician. 2. The person is homebound. 3. The person requires part-time therapy, nursing, or other defined services, usually for a short duration. 4. A Medicare certified Home Health Agency provides the services. Your proposed solution to the shower dilemma doesn’t meet any of these criteria except presumably your mother’s being under a doctor’s care. For now, mahjong disqualifies your mom from all Home Health because it means she is not homebound. Even if she were to give up mahjong, (occasionally attending church okay), Medicare would not cover ongoing bathing assistance needed primarily because of advanced age. It would be grand if your niece were to help out: just
don’t expect Medicare to pay your niece unless she happens to be a certified Medicare Home Health Agency. I’m afraid this is a time in which only one strike is required for you to be “out,” and you have at least three. Unfortunately, when people start needing more help with normal daily activities due to aging, Medicare Home Health is not the solution. Good luck taking care of your mom (and yourself, too)!
Aunt Sadie expresses A program of the RSVP collective wisdom of SHIBA volunteers. SHIBA Daughand COG is funded by Medicare in
m OCCC Newport ter,Dear Mahjong Before I answer re Home Health rules--two 400 SE College Way falls in one month are
too many. Your Mahjong Mom needs to see her health care provider. Maybe she had two bits of bad luck close together? Or maybe the falls suggest something more concerning? You don’t know. Her physician can evaluate her general health and possible reasons for falling. Perhaps he will offer information re shower equipment. Maybe he will refer her (and you) to a physical/ occupational therapist (a Medicare-covered service) for help in developing safer shower strategies. The Medicare Home Health benefit is very specific. Medicare pays
OCCC Waldport 3120 Crestline Drive
OCCC Lincoln City 3788 High School Drive
part to provide individualized information to beneficiaries. Do you need assistance understanding Medicare, Medicare Advantage, or Medigap insurance? From simple questions to filing appeals, we can help! Call us at 541-574-2684 to ask a question, register for class, or schedule a free appointment.
203 N Main Street Toledo, OR 97391
Phone: 541-574-2684 Email: rsvp@ocwcog.org
OCCC Newport 400 SE College Way
Generations January * February * March * 2015 - 9
Steps towards fitness: Walking
Let’s Go for a Walk You may have heard quite a bit about walking for fitness, but have you considered just how many other benefits there are? It’s really quite exciting! Becoming active by walking greatly reduces your risk for cardiovascular disease, Type2 diabetes and obesity. Walking works several major muscle groups. These muscles help pump blood back to the heart, and exercising them improves circulation, muscular endurance and dynamic balance. This keeps you stronger and
more flexible. Daily activities like dressing, bathing, grooming, and personal hygiene are easier with your improved fitness level from walking. Everyday physical activities become easier. Fitness walking gets your heart rate up, reduces cholesterol, builds muscle and burns fat. Add those all up and you’re slowing the aging process! Another one of the great benefits of walking is your renewed energy gives you the motivation and ability to start doing more outdoor activities with your
family, friends and even your grandkids! When it’s easier it’s sure a lot more fun! Tips for walking outdoors safely: Walk with a buddy whenever possible. Carry your name, address, and a friend or relative’s phone number in your shoe or tied to a lace. Wear a medical bracelet and carry a cell phone. Let a friend or relative know your walking routes. Wear reflective material or carry a flashlight so others can see you. Carry a whistle, or pepper spray in case of
Wheelchair Van:
Our clean and spacious vehicles provide independence and quality care. Wheelchair van transportation provides room to room service any time of the day or night. All wheelchair vans are staffed with highly trained EMT’s who have passed a rigorous screening process. Includes any transport needs such as grocery shopping, etc.
Serving Oregon Since 1953 “Meeting Each Customer’s Needs” At Pacific West Ambulance we offer a variety of emergency and non-emergency medical transportation services. Our clients are provided with reliable, safe and professional services designed to meet each individual’s needs. Our vehicles are staffed with trained and experienced medical professionals who provide caring and quality services to our clients.
Comfort Car:
As an alternative to a taxi cab, the Comfort Car is designed for ambulatory clients or individuals who can transfer easily from a wheelchair or walker. You will find this service friendly, safe, and comforting. Each vehicle is staffed with EMT to ensure safety. This is a room to room service for any transport needs, including grocery shopping, etc.
Ambulance Services:
For those individuals that require appointment ambulance services, Pacific West Ambulance provides timely quality services, staffed with an ALS team whether you are discharged from a hospital, transferring from a care facility, or in your own private residence, we are here to meet your needs.
609 NW Coast Street • Newport, OR 97365 • 541-265-3175
IN AN EMERGENCY CALL 9-1-1 10 - Generations January * February * March * 2015
an emergency. Indoor Walking Locations: The Newport Park and Rec center and Lincoln City Community Center both have indoor walking tracks. In Newport the drop in rate for residents is $4.65. Lincoln City offers a resident rate for the 62+ walkers a $2.75 drop in rate. Before you start your walking program, it’s a good idea to check with your Doctor or Health Professional. Get your ‘green light’ so you can be on your way to enjoying the many benefits of walking!
Submitted by LoRee LaFon, Personal Trainer and Water Fitness Instructor at the Lincoln City Community Center, 541-9942131.
Powerful Tools for Caregivers
Who is the class for? Powerful Tools for Caregivers is an educational program designed to help caregivers. This program will help you take care ofyomselfwhile caring for a relative or friend. You will benefit from the class whether you help care for someone who lives at home, in a care facility, or across the country.
What does the class cover? This class will give YOU, the family caregiver, tools to: • Help reduce stress • Communicate effectively with other family members, your doctor, and paid help • Take care of yourself • Reduce guilt, anger, and depression • Help you relax • Make tough decisions • Set goals and problemsolve. This class will NOT Continued on Page 13
COMMUNITY HOSPITALS RISE TO THE CHALLENGE By G. Mick McLean, Rural Hospital Administrator The recent Ebola hysteria reminds me of our Colfax, WA, hospital’s first patient who tested HIV-positive. It was the early 1990s. There were lots of unknowns and media hype added fuel to fires of fear, misinformation, and distracted from advances being made in managing this insidious infection. The patient was a 15 year old local boy who had acquired AIDS through a transfusion. Quickly, a decision had to be made as to whether we would admit the young man and manage him locally or, as many were demanding, he be
transported immediately to the city. Some hospital staff was threatening to resign if forced to enter his room while others were convinced we could manage him and, what’s more, there would certainly be more to follow, “So, let’s get serious now!” The Medi-
cal Staff welcomed the challenge and agreed, noting there was nothing a city hospital could offer that we with an isolation room and serious adherence to infection control protocols couldn’t offer. We admitted the young man. When he converted from HIV-positive to full blown AIDS, we all shared a bitter-sweet day when we arranged for one more visit home. We ar-
ranged for an ambulance and nurse to take him by his home in St. John, some 25 miles away. The trip included a stop by the cemetery where he and family selected his final resting site. He was readmitted to the hospital that evening. Several staff attended his funeral. In the 1970s we were confronted and trained for how to handle Swine Flu, in the 1990s AIDS. After 911 we trained for Anthrax, bioterrorism threats, and dirty bombs. Today, it is Ebola. While the mega-medical centers get all the attention, we can predict people in the cities where there is a threat or an outbreak will flood the highways
for rural destinations, possibly bringing the threat to the Emergency Room door of rural and coastal hospitals. Rest assured, community hospitals, too, are always training and preparing for the next threat to public health and safety because, when threatened or affected, folks look to their hospitals first. P.S. Today’s , Nov. 11, good news is good news the Newport NewsTimes Headline read, “Lincoln County ready for Ebola if it strikes!” Unfortunately, in other news, the Netherlands reported 150,000 chickens were being destroyed due to a Bird Flu outbreak!
Lonnie the Logger Asks: Remember the Edsel? By: Mick McLean Federal Highway Safety folks are concerned with the increasing number of senior drivers on the road. Some have described it as a “tsunami” of babyboomers who will be driving more, longer, and would value advice on safer cars and pickups for seniors. Their challenge is to come up with criteria for “Silver Car Ratings” for seniors and package all these features in a car seniors will want
to buy. Perhaps they should talk with Lincoln City’s Lonnie “the Logger” Headrick. At 87, Lonnie is still on call for a regional car dealership for shuttling cars between the Coast and the Valley dealerships. “I driven most, beginning with my 1932 Model A, and I know the ones I’d recommend for seniors”, Lonnie asserts. The following is a checklist Lonnie would urge seniors to consider. Of course, a 6’ 7”, his de-
scription of a “good fit” might differ from most us. • A low door threshold (Flat or shallow wheel well) for bad knees. • Keyless entry for stiff fingers. • Back up alarms to reduce dents in garbage bins. • Grip handles above all doors for lift in and out. • Leather seats for slipping across and pivot moves. • At least six-way
adjustable seats. (My wife sat on a pillow.) • High contrast, easy to read instrument panel. • Elbow room in front seat. (Don’t have much in the compact.) • If a high rider, running boards. • Leg room for the back seat passenger and some cargo space. The Highway Safety note the surge in 77 million baby-boomers retiring and are concerned that , since they were raised in the “pri-
At 6’7”. Lonnie Headrick finds his 1998 Dodge pickup a good fit.
vate auto era”, they’ll be driving more and for more years as we live longer. Lonnie wonders if “Silver Rated Safe Cars” would it sell? “Remember the Edsel?” Lonnie asks. In the meantime, Edmunds.com lists the Top Ten Vehicles for seniors yearly. Check it out.
Generations January * February * March * 2015 - 11
Attention men: Time to man up for routine screenings
From skipping important health screenings to avoiding a visit to the doctor, research performed by organizations such the American Academy of Family Physicians indicate men fall short when it comes to managing their personal health. Even though you may feel well now, routine screenings are important to your long-term health. Make sure that you are up to date on screenings and aware of potential cancers. Skin Wearing sunscreen isn’t
just for a day at the beach or ballpark. Use a sunscreen with a SPF of at least 30 on a daily basis. If you notice an irritated or irregular skin growth, make sure to see your doctor. Prostate Screening for prostate cancer has been the source of a vigorous debate. Until recently, it was generally recommended that men age 40 and above have a routine blood test called a prostate-specific antigen or PSA to find out if they have prostate cancer. Within the last year,
however, a federal task force found insufficient evidence to recommend routine prostate screenings. With the continuing debate, it’s important to discuss your options with your doctor and determine your individual plan for prostate health. Colon Beginning at age 50 (or earlier based on certain risk factors), men should begin to follow a testing schedule to detect polyps (small growths that can become cancerous) and cancer. Screening options
include colonoscopy, which allows doctors to view both upper and lower sections of the colon. Sigmoidoscopy screens the lower part of the colon and is often combined with a fecal test. Work with your doctor to identify the screening schedule that’s best for you. Lungs New screenings for current and former heavy smokers are proving to be beneficial. In fact, it was recently announced that Medicare may soon begin paying for yearly scans for
high-risk patients. It’s important that you talk with your doctor if you have a history of smoking, and if you still smoke, that you take steps to quit. Lung cancer is the number one cause of cancer deaths and cigarette smoking is the primary risk factor for the disease. Schedule your screenings today. If you don’t have a primary care provider, call Samaritan Health Services Physician Referral Network for help in finding one at 1-800-863-5241.
The Chocolate Classics tradition is still The PEARLS program alive and well in Lincoln County! can help fight depression Article by RSVP staff memory of Walter “Pete” Mona Miller Plummer, an extraordinary volunteer who was You LOVE chocolate. an active leader in the WE love chocolate. And community. Pete served ALL YOU CAN EAT on the Council of GovCHOCOLATE (guilt ernments, avidly supfree, no less) is a fun and ported the Senior Comdelicious way to help panion Program and was our communities! It’s instrumental in the buildthat time of year again – ing of the Waldport Setime for the 24th annual nior Center. Many of our Chocolate Classics! This services and programs year’s event – entitled today stand on the lega“Peace, Love & Choco- cy of Pete’s work in our late” - will be held Satur- community. day, Jan. 24th at 7pm at Tickets are on sale now the Oregon Coast Aquar- for a discounted $35 per ium. Chefs from the Or- person or $60 per couple, egon Coast will be enter- or $40 at the door the ing their favorite sweet night of the event. There or savory chocolate reci- will also be a silent aucpes and will be judged tion, live entertainment on taste, presentation and and a costume contest so come dressed in your originality. The very first Choco- best 60s attire! late Classics was held in This much anticipated 12 - Generations January * February * March * 2015
event is the signature fundraiser for the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program. RSVP helps those ages 55 and over “ReInvent their Retirement” through service to their community and neighbors, such as: transportation services, friendly visitor programs, durable medical equipment distribution, student tutoring, Medicare counseling, local gleaners and much more. Please call RSVP at 541-574-2684 for tickets, questions about the event or if you are interested in becoming a volunteer! Thank-you to our 2015 Chocolate Classics sponsors: Oregon Coast Aquarium, Oregon Coast Glassworks, Pig Feathers and Edward Jones
Months of rainy weather, long periods of darkness and cold weather can make winter one of the hardest seasons to keep your mental wellbeing intact. Mild depression symptoms often show up during these times. Common depression symptoms include things like not enjoying things that you used to, feeling down or hopeless, feeling bad about yourself or having trouble sleeping. If you’re experiencing some of these symptoms, there is a program that can help! Senior and Disabil-
ity Services now offers a program for seniors and people with disabilities who are experiencing symptoms of depression. The program, PEARLS, encourages people to engage in more activity in order to feel better. Participants also learn to use a problem solving technique to tackle difficult challenges in their lives. PEARLS is offered to people for free and visits are conducted in the participant’s home. To learn more about the program, call Senior and Disability Services at 1-800-2826194.
Retired & Senior Volunteer Program sees bright future for 2015
Alicia Lucke Compiled by Alicia Lucke and Holly Terlson, RSVP Within the past year, RSVP of Linn, Benton & Lincoln Counties has undergone many positive changes. From combining two thriving RSVP programs, to hiring a new program director, RSVP is ready to move in a bright and new direction. RSVP’s new director, Alicia Lucke, comes all the way from Jacksonville, Florida. She and her family moved to Philomath in the summer of 2013, following her husband’s job as a pastor at Peace Lutheran Church
in Philomath. Alicia and her husband, Jeremy, have two children, Kaia, age 3, and Claire, age 1. Originally from Michigan, Alicia is the eldest of five children. Much of her childhood was spent with her grandparents, who were leaders in their community. This time taught her the value of volunteering. Alicia went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts and a Masters degree from Western Michigan University, where she also worked as a research fellow for the Department of Political Science. Before coming to RSVP, Alicia worked as the Cultural Health Director at the American Heart Association in Arizona before moving on to the Department of Homeland Security as a Spanish Linguist and Training Development Specialist. Alicia brings to RSVP a wealth of
experience leading volunteers, working in the community, and focusing on the importance of a healthy lifestyle. In her free time, Alicia enjoys spending time with her family exploring Oregon, tennis, cooking, Spanish culture and literature, clogging, and volunteering. Over the next year, RSVP plans to integrate new plans and focus areas to better support community needs, while maintaining current focus areas that are already supporting the needs of seniors and non-profit organizations in Linn, Benton and Lincoln Counties. With a continuing emphasis on healthy futures, RSVP strives to help seniors “age in place” by supporting programs that provide transportation, food distribution, and education for seniors. RSVP will also begin
dialogue with groups that focus on youth, veterans, and the Latino community. RSVP will continue to build on our existing programs, such as Trans-Med, SHIBA, and DME (Durable Medical Equipment). Providing transportation services to seniors and people with disabilities is an important service to those who live in rural areas of Lincoln County, and to those who are unable to afford private transportation services. Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) provides free and confidential one-onone counseling to seniors and others who are eligible for Medicare. Providing durable medical equipment to seniors and people with disabilities is an essential service, especially to those whose insurance does not cover
certain equipment and those who do not have insurance. The CDC reports that falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults in the United States. The DME program is a service that RSVP plans to expand into Linn and Benton Counties to help prevent seniors from falling in their homes. The staff of RSVP of Linn, Benton and Lincoln Counties is excited for all of the changes taking place, and the ability to connect with great volunteers in all three counties. The work of our current volunteers is selfless and necessary to meet the needs of our communities. If you are interested in joining RSVP’s team of senior volunteers in Linn, Benton or Lincoln Counties, visit our website for more information: www.rsvpoflbl.org. Or call (541) 574-2684.
Recipe - Tuscan Bean and Pasta Soup Ingredients 1 small carrot, sliced 1 small onion, chopped 1 tablespoons olive oil 1 15 ounce cans cannellini beans or white kidney beans, rinsed and drained 1 cup water 2 cans (14-1/2 ounces each) chicken broth 1/4 teaspoon pepper 3/4 teaspoon salt
15 ounce package baby spinach Add spinach; cook until just wilted. 2/3 cup uncooked small spiral pasta YIELD: 4 servings. (or small sea shell pasta) Nutritional Facts 1 cup equals 196 calories, 5 g fat Directions (1 g saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1.In a large saucepan, sauté onion 1,432 mg sodium, 30 g carbohyand carrots in oil until onion is ten- drate, 6 g fiber, 9 g protein. der. Add the broth, water, seasoning; bring to a boil. Stir in beans NOTES: and pasta; return to a boil. Reduce You can add 1 lb turkey kielbasa, heat; cover and simmer for 15 min- cut lengthwise & sliced, Italian utes or until pasta and vegetables seasonings, chopped celery. are tender, stirring occasionally. Generations January * February * March * 2015 - 13
Oregon Project Independence Pilot • Assistance to help individuals aged 19-59 who have a disability remain independent in their own home. • Program services can include: personal care, housekeeping, home delivered meals and more. • The cost of program services is based on income after deductions for medical expenses. Senior and • Disability services can help you apply and arrange for OPI Pilot services. For more information about the OPI Pilot and answers to questions, contact Senior and Disability Services. Local: 541-336-2289 Toll Free: 800-282-6194
The Living Well Program is looking for volunteer leaders who are interested in leading community workshops. Living Well is a free sixweek selfmanagement workshop for people who are living with ongoing health conditions. Participants learn many self-management tools like how to problem solve, handle stress, deal with pain and fatigue and communicate more effectively. Volunteers must complete a four day training and be willing to lead at least one six-week workshop per year. Training will be held in Toledo on January 22, 23, 29 and 30 from 8:30-4:30. People interested in volunteering can call Kaity Lundgren with enior and Disability Services at 541-574- 3752. 14 - Generations January * February * March * 2015
Area Agency on Aging
Senior & Disability Services Area Agency on Aging (AAA) for Lincoln, Linn and Benton Counties
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON: ADULT FOSTER CARE MEALS ON WHEELS ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES MEDICAID LONG-TERM CARE COMMUNITY RESOURCES IN-HOME CARE OPI/FAMILY CAREGIVER PROG INFORMATION AND REFERRAL FOOD STAMPS RSVP OPTIONS COUNSELING
CALL 541-336-2289 or 1-800-282-6194 TDD/VOICE in Lincoln County 541-967-8630 or 1-800-638-0510 TDD/VOICE in Benton and Linn Counties
“Powerful Tools” Continued from page 10
focus on specific diseases or hands-on care giving for the care receiver. This class is foa· you, caregiver! Includes How-ToDo-It Book! Each class participant will receive a book to accompany the class content. This book contains chapters covering topics such as: • Hiring in-home help • Helping people who have problems with memory or thinking • Making legal and financial decisions • Making decisions about placement in care facilities • Understanding de-
pression • Making decisions about driving • Effective communication teclmiques The classes are free! For information about classes being scheduled in Lincoln County please contact Nanette Bengel, Coordinator for the Family Caregiver Support Program 541-5743743 or Jan Fitzgerald, Director of North End Senior Solutions (NESS Club) 541-9210937
been stuck in the paralysis of fear – not knowing exactly how to handle things now that I find myself in the role of caretaker. Fortunately for me, I was invited to take part in a seminar entitled “Powerful Tools for Caregivers”. I was really dragging my feet and not wanting to go. But the leaders kept urging me and even said they’d pick me up and bring me home. I finally said ok. When I told my daughter Sondra, she asked me to let her drive 45 miles up here (Testimonials) Titled: Getting Un- and take me to stuck October 16, each of the meetings on Tuesday mornings 2013 Yes, I admit it. I have for the 6 weeks. Wow! That sure gave me the support I needed. She is taking the course, right along with me. She said she wants to support me and also to know how to do things right to help Papa. Truly, in just two weeks, all of us caregivers have shared all the craziness that occurs every single day of our lives. And learned to laugh at the “sameness” of our situations. We have workbooks and assignments to learn how to TAKE TIME for ourselves. We have to write down and share out loud exactly what activity we
are going to do the next week. And it has to be something just for ourselves…that we love to do. I decided to promise to play the piano along with a CD all the way through twice a week of different CD’s. I did it --and was so happy that I was able to do it. The second week I promised to write 4 pages in my Journal by the end of the week. I’ve done that. I can’t tell you what a difference it has made. I’m not dpressed and I don’t feel alone in this any more. I suppose it is a matter of DOING something positive for myself and not feeling terrified and angry about the situation. I think I’m finally unstuck. Kay Fierro, Lincoln City, Oregon November 4, 2014 I found the Powerful Tools for Caregiver classes to be beneficial from so many different angles. When I was first invited to attend the class, my reaction was I thought it would be a waste of my time but decided to give it a try. Much to my surprise the learning started with the first video about the “Doll Maker” and continued through
the last class. It was quickly confirmed that I was not alone in my struggles to give good care to my husband. I also learned that anger, stress, and guilt are very normal and I was given new tools to deal with these emotions. The most priceless lesson for me was on the “I” messages. As with most mothers and daughters, may daughter and I have had our share of miscommunication and hurt feelings. For the past year she has been coming from Arizona every three months to give me a hand with her dad. Her visits were wonderful but not quite what I needed. My action plan one week was to have 15 minutes of quality communication with her regarding my needs using the new communication techniques I’d learned in class. Because of the class I was able to ask her to spend good quality time with her dad while he still kows who she is. She heard me lud and clear and has continued through phone calls to listen and support me, which is a blessing. The Lord always gives us what we need; we just have to ask and then listen. Jo-Ann Newport, Oregon
Generations January * February * March * 2015 - 15
Coastal hospitals offer a variety of volunteer opportunities At Samaritan North Lincoln Hospital (SNLH) and Samaritan Pacific Communities Hospital (SPCH), our volunteers consistently provide hours of dedicated service and support, allowing most of the services provided to the community to operate in a more efficient manner. SNLH and SPCH volunteers can be men or women, from teens to senior citizens. They can volunteer a few hours a week or only a few hours a year. Volunteers can contribute in many different ways in many different service areas.
Hospice Volunteer
Hospital Volunteer
Hospice volunteer training classes are offered
Volunteers have the opportunity to work in
Senior Companion Program Volunteer
for people interested in learning more about
emergency and outpatient areas as greeters,
Are you 55 years of age or older and looking
how to support terminally ill patients and
help with social event planning, help with
for an opportunity to assist others?
their families and those who are considering
musical and community presentations,
becoming volunteers.
and promoting services with Lifeline.
Support volunteers perform office work,
Volunteers perform tasks such as mail delivery,
friends, provide transportation to medical
help with fundraisers and make comfort pillows
pet therapy, and various jobs in multiple offices
appointments and other necessary errands,
for our patients.
and departments, and at information desks
enabling clients to live independently
and hospital gift shops.
with zest and dignity.
respite to caregivers, visit hospice patients at
To learn more about becoming
For more information call:
home or in assisted living facilities, and provide
a hospital volunteer call:
541-574-4714
bereavement support as needed for surviving
SNLH, 541-996-7132
loved ones.
SPCH, 541-265-2244 ext. 2537
Patient care volunteers act as couriers, give
Senior companions provide companionship, help keep clients in contact with family and
To learn more call: SNLH, 541-996-7328 SPCH, 541-574-1811 ext. 2558
930 SW Abbey St., Newport • 541-265-2244 samhealth.org/Newport
16 - Generations January * February * March * 2015
3043 NE 28th St., Lincoln City • 541-994-3661 samhealth.org/LincolnCity