Sliver Pages Zest February

Zest For 50+ living

FEBRUARY 2015

Silver Pages AN ANNUAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR SENIORS & CAREGIVERS

FREE! VOLUNTEERING Share your time & talent with others

AGING AGENCIES Who can help

HOME CARE Aging in place

ARTS & ACTIVITIES Lots to do & see

SENIOR DINING Nutritious meals

TRANSPORTATION Bringing seniors to their destination

END OF LIFE Hospice offers care, support in final days

ADULT DAY SERVICES Care for seniors and a respite for caregivers

SENIOR LIVING Apartments to nursing homes

Regional Eye Center A WHOLE NEW LEVEL OF CARE IN HUTCHINSON

1455 Montreal St. SE (Next to Menards) 320-587-6308 • 800-955-6336 Open Monday & Thursday 8 a.m. – 7:30 p.m., Tuesday & Wednesday 8 a.m.–5:30 p.m., Friday 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

1st and 3rd Saturdays Labor Day through Memorial Day: 8:30 a.m.– 12 Noon

WE OFFER THREE AREAS OF EXPERTISE IN ONE CONVENIENT, RELAXED ATMOSPHERE I Regional

Eye Specialists

OPHTHALMOLOGY/ OPTOMETRY

A new level of eye examination and patient education. State-of-the art equipment for examination of the retina, macula and optic nerve.

I Regional

Michael P. Merck, M.D.

Christopher R. Wallyn, D.O.

Amy J. Nyquist, O.D.

Allan D. Wortz, O.D.

Eye Optical

QUALITY EYEWEAR/ PERSONAL EYECARE

Twice the optical selection, including new frame styles, Transitions® and polarized prescription sunglasses.

I Regional

Eye Surgery Center

ON-SITE SURGERY CENTER

On-site cataract, glaucoma and Wavescan® LASIK surgery, performed with the latest surgical equipment.

We offer the newest technologies in • Lifestyle Premium Intraocular Lenses—implants that correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and the need for bifocals • New Surgical Treatment of Glaucoma • All-Laser Lasik • New Treatments for Macular Degeneration • Eyelid Surgery

Steve Queenan ABO/NCLE N02351 Z

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ZEST • SILVER PAGES | FEBRUARY 2015

Silver Pages

For 50+ living

FEBRUARY 2015 Vol. 5 No. 12

PUBLISHED BY Litchfield Independent Review 217 Sibley Ave. N., Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3266

AN ANNUAL RESOURCE GUIDE FOR SENIORS &

Senior centers & dining sites: Seniors

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can eat and socialize at area senior centers, dining sites and through home-delivered meals

Adult day services:

Hutchinson Leader 170 Shady Ridge Road NW, Suite 100 Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-5000

Offering care for seniors, respite

for caregivers

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PUBLISHER Brent Schacherer schacherer@hutchinsonleader.com 320-234-4143 EDITOR Juliana Thill thill@independentreview.net 320-593-4808 Litchfield office 320-234-4172 Hutchinson office ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Kevin True true@hutchinsonleader.com 320-234-4141 SUBSCRIPTION OR ADDRESS CHANGE Michelle Magnuson 320-234-4142 magnuson@hutchinsonleader.com PRINTED BY Crow River Press 170 Shady Ridge Road NW Hutchinson, MN 55350 Zest is published monthly by the Litchfield Independent Review and Hutchinson Leader newspapers. Silver Pages is published annually.

No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form by means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior consent of the publisher.

CAREGIVERS

Zest

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CONTENTS

living: Apartments, 34 Senior retirement sites, assisted living, and

skilled nursing homes offer different levels of care to meet varying needs and preferences

4 5 8 12 18 22 24 26 28 30 38 39

Advertising index Active mind & body: Local programs keep seniors learning Agencies & organizations: Federal, state, county contacts Arts & activities: Festivals, community theater, museums End of life: Hospice, caregivers, funerals, pre-planning Eye care: Problems to watch for as people age Hearing: When to see a doctor; methods for coping Home care: Helping seniors age in place Hospitals & clinics: What to do before visiting the doctor Pharmacy: Managing your medications Transportation: Getting around town without a car Volunteering: Gaining a sense of purpose while giving back FEBRUARY 2015 | SILVER PAGES • ZEST

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WELCOME Do not regret growing older. It is a privilege denied to many.

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he quote above is such an interesting way to look at aging, and it has made me realize I need to change my own thinking. I used to be sad about turning another year older — wishing I could turn back the hands of time.

However, I’ve come to realize that growing old isn’t a bad thing. Like the quote says, not everyone gets to do it.

Let’s celebrate the years we have been given, and make the most of them. That’s our philosophy at Zest because today’s seniors are an active, dynamic, diversified group — ranging from those who just turned 50 and are still working to those who are long retired and are still keeping busy.

This month, we offer you our fourth annual edition of Silver Pages — a resource guide for people 50 and older, as well as caregivers.

This magazine, published by the Hutchinson Leader and Litchfield Independent Review, is designed to be an easy-to-use guide filled with valuable information and resources that seniors, their loved ones and professionals can use.

Our goal is to help you navigate through the abundant services available, including government and private programs.

On the following pages, you will find stories and list-

— Author Unknown

ings: from aging agencies to volunteer opportunities. Check out the table of contents on Page 3 and the advertisers index below to find services you are interested in or need.

We have worked diligently to ensure the accuracy of listings.

However, if you find any errors, please let us know so we can correct them.

Also, every effort was made to compile a complete list of service providers, but if you are a business or organization whose service is not listed, please let us know so we can include you in next year’s edition. Our contact information can be found on Page 3.

Thank you to our advertisers, whose support makes it possible for us to distribute copies of this guide free of charge. Please let them know you saw their ads here and that you appreciate their community spirit.

This publication was compiled with care, and we are proud to be able to serve the community in this way.

All the best to you as we all grow older!

— Juliana Thill, editor

DIRECTORY OF ADVERTISERS Please support and thank the businesses and organizations that care enough about those who are 50+ to make Silver Pages possible Advertiser Page number American Legion Post 104 17 Buffalo Wild Wings 17 Cashwise Pharmacy 31 Divine Home Care 27 Ecumen of Litchfield 7 Ecumen Oaks & Pines 37 Evergreen Apartments 15 Family Rexall Drug & Pharmacy 29 Hutch Bowl 17 Hutch & Litchfield Hearing Aid 25

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Advertiser Page number McLeod Cooperative Power 11 Meeker County Veterans 15 Meeker Memorial Hospital 19 Melchert, Hubert, Sjodin law firm 21 Prairie Senior Cottages 9 Prince of Peace Retirement Living 11 Regional Eye Center 2 Snap Fitness 13 State Farm Insurance 15 Woodstone Senior Living Community 40

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ACTIVE MIND & BODY

Local classes encourage seniors to remain active, continue learning

P

Continue to learn.

Keep moving.

Dassel-Cokato Community Education offers a variety of adult enrichment and recreational activities.

Programming includes arts and crafts, exercise classes, and AARP Safe Driver courses. Some classes require a fee. For more information, call 320286-4120 or go online to www.dc.k12. mn.us/commed.

Glencoe-Silver Lake Community Education offers a variety of adult enrichment and recreational activities and classes all year. Programming includes arts and crafts, exercise classes, and AARP Safe Driver courses.

Some classes require a fee. For more information, call the Glencoe-Silver Lake Community Education office at 320-864-2690 or go online to www.gsl.k12.mn.us and click on Comm Ed/ECFE.

Dassel-Cokato area

Glencoe area

eople 50 and older have numerous opportunities in McLeod and Meeker counties to remain active both in mind and body.

Research shows that older adults who participate in senior center programs can learn to manage and delay the onset of chronic disease and experience measurable improvements in their physical, social, spiritual, emotional, mental, and economic wellbeing, according to the National Council on Aging.

In addition, community education offerings that teach healthy habits and empower them to live better can lead to a healthy life for seniors. Research shows healthy habits can delay disability by as much as 10 years, according to the National Council on Aging.

In addition to being physically active, Harvard Medical School also recommends seniors keep their mind active, as well.

Challenging your brain with mental exercise is believed to activate processes that help maintain individual brain cells and stimulate communication among them, according to Harvard Health Publications.

Many people have jobs that keep them mentally active, but pursuing a hobby, learning a new skill, or volunteering for a project that involves a skill you don’t usually use can function the same way.

Below are some area contacts for keeping your mind and body active:

Pursue a hobby.

Hutchinson area Senior programming at the Hutchinson Event Center/Senior Center is open to all surrounding area seniors 50 years of age and older.

Senior programming offers a variety of activities such as card playing, crafts, fellowship dinners, brunches, tours, health services, exercise classes, and AARP Safe Driver courses. Some classes require a fee. The library at the senior center offers a diverse selection of books and puzzles. The lounge serves as a place to view the large screen TV or enjoy a cup of coffee. The computer lab is available for daily use during senior programming hours. For more information, call the Hutchinson Event Center at 320-234-5656 or go online to www.ci.hutchinson.mn.us/ senioractiv.html.

Litchfield area Litchfield Community Education offers a variety of adult enrichment and adult recreation opportunities, such as arts and crafts, AARP Safe Driver courses, tours, exercise and fitness classes, and a walking club. For more information, call the Litchfield Community Education office at 320693-2354 or go online to www.litchfield.k12.mn.us and click on the Community Education link in the top right corner.

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ADULT DAY SERVICES

Adult day centers offer services for older adults, provide respite for family caregivers

C

hoosing an adult day program for your loved one is an important decision.

Finding the right program can make a tremendous impact on their well being, while giving you peace of mind that your loved one is in a safe, supportive and engaging environment, according to the Minnesota Adult Day Services Association, which is the state’s organizing body for adult day service providers.

Adult day services are communitybased programs that meet the health, social, recreational and therapeutic needs of elderly and disabled adults.

They serve people who face physical challenges, are socially isolated, have memory problems, are in need of assistance with personal care, or are limited in their ability to function independently in the community.

Adult day services also provide much needed respite and peace of mind for family caregivers. Though centers differ in services and operating hours, they all have a common goal — to enable an adult to maintain independence in the least restrictive environment while ensuring purposeful living and engagement. By supporting families and caregivers, adult day services enable participants to maximize independent living in the community.

Services they provide Adult day services offer an individualized plan of care to meet the needs of each participant. Participants attend on a scheduled basis, and services might include the following: Care and supervision.

Therapeutic and cognitively stimulating group and individual activities.

Meals and snacks.

Transportation.

Personal care management.

Medication management.

Physical, occupational and speech therapies.

Social interaction and companionship.

Daily exercise.

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Determining your needs, needs of a loved one Determining the medical and social needs of your loved one can be a difficult and confusing process. The Minnesota Adult Day Services Association provides the following questions to help guide your decision-making when determining if adult day services would best serve your loved one: Is the person idle? Does she or he sleep a lot throughout the day, perhaps in front of the TV? Does the person have a low interest in other family members?

Does the person seem sad, lonely, or confused? Do you feel that she or he would benefit by more social activity during the day?

Do you lack time and energy to take care of your own needs? Do you need more time for yourself, or to be with other family members and friends?

Are you also parenting children?

Are you also working part time, or full time?

If the person is not living with you, are you often worried about this person?

Have you thought about a nursing home, but feel guilty when you have these thoughts?

Are you spending a lot of time providing routine care for the person, such as cooking, dressing and toileting, and find that you have less time for talking or doing activities with the person?

If your response to one or several of these questions is yes, you may find that both you and the person you are caring for would benefit from adult day services.

How day services help Adult day service programs work to: Promote the individual’s maximum level of independence Ensure a high quality of life and sense of dignity.

Maintain the individual’s present level of functioning as long as possible, preventing or delaying further decline.

Provide support, respite, and education for families and other caregivers.

Foster socialization and peer interaction.

Serve as an integral part of the community service network and longterm care continuum.

Making a selection The Minnesota Adult Day Services Association offers tips on selecting an adult day center for for your loved one:

ZEST • SILVER PAGES | FEBRUARY 2015

Make an appointment to visit the center(s). A personal visit is the best way to have your questions answered and learn more about the programming, activities and services provided by the center.

Do your homework prior to and during your visit. The National Adult Day Services Association has created a comprehensive site visit checklist that can help guide your initial visit to a center. Go online to http://nadsa.org/ consumers/site-visit-checklist/.

Check references. Ask the staff at the center you are considering for two or three people who have used their services and would be willing to share their opinions and experiences.

Try it out. Select a day center and give it a try for a few days. Keep in mind that it often takes several visits for a new participant to feel comfortable in a new setting and routine.

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ADULT DAY SERVICES ADULT DAY SERVICE PROVIDERS Cokato

Litchfield

Cokato Charitable Trust 182 Sunset Ave. N.W. Cokato, MN 55321 320-286-2158 www.cokatoseniorcare.com/ skilled-nursing

Ecumen of Litchfield 200 N. Holcombe Ave. Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-2430 www.ecumenoflitchfield.org

Silver Lake

Cosmos

Cedar Crest Estates 1401 Main St. W. Silver Lake, MN 55381 320-327-6577 www.cedarcrestmn.com

Cedar Crest Estates 130 Neptune St. N. Cosmos, MN 56228 320-877-9100 www.cedarcrestmn.com

Watkins

Darwin

Dassel

Lakeview Ranch 69531 213th St. Darwin, MN 55324 320-275-4610 or 800-546-5175 www.lakeviewranch.com/ adultdaycare.php

Lakeview Ranch 22851 Minnesota Highway 15 Dassel, MN 55325 320-275-5515 or 800-546-5175 www.lakeviewranch.com/ adultdaycare.php

Hilltop Care Center 410 Luella St. Watkins, MN 55389 320-764-2300

We Have You Covered!

For over 30 years, Ecumen of Litchfield has been the #1 provider of quality senior housing and healthcare services in Meeker County!

Emmanuel Care Center • Medicare-certified skilled nursing, short stay rehabilitation Ecumen of Litchfield Home Care & Hospice • Medicare-certified skilled care or home maker services in your home Gloria Dei • Affordable and HUD apartments for those age 62+ Emmaus Place • Gracious senior living apartments with services as needed Bethany Assisted Living and Memory Care • Private apartments with 24-hour licensed staff DayBreak • Adult day program Monday through Friday

Call us for information or to tour any of our Litchfield locations!

320-693-2472

Ecumen of Litchfield North Housing, Home care & Hospice Campus 200 North Holcombe Ave Litchfield, MN 55355 Ecumen of Litchfield South Care & Rehabilitation Center 600 S. Davis Ave Litchfield, MN 55355

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AGENCIES & ORGANIZATIONS

America’s older population tops 40 million, continues to increase

S

ince 1900, the percentage of Americans 65 and older has more than tripled (from 4.1 percent in 1900 to 13.7 percent in 2012).

The older population — people 65 years or older — numbered 43.1 million in 2012 (the most recent year for which data are available).

They represented about one in every seven Americans, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

From 2002 to 2012, the number of older Americans increased by 7.6 million or 21 percent, compared to an increase of 7 percent for the under-65 population.

In addition, the older population

itself is increasingly older.

In 2012, the 65 to 74 age group (24 million) was more than 10 times larger than in 1900; the 75 to 84 group (13.3 million) was 17 times larger and the 85 and older group (5.9 million) was 48 times larger, according to the U.S. Administration on Aging.

Between 1980 and 2012, the centenarian population experienced a larger percentage increase than did the total population.

There were 61,985 people aged 100 or more in 2012 (0.14 percent of the total 65 and older population).

This is a 93 percent increase from the 1980 figure of 32,194.

In 2011, people reaching age 65 had an average life expectancy of an additional 19.2 years (20.4 years for females and 17.8 years for males).

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AGENCIES & ORGANIZATIONS AARP

National Council on Aging

601 E St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20049 888-687-2277 or 877-434-7598 TTY www.aarp.org

1901 L St. NW, Fourth floor, Washington, D.C. 20036 202-479-1200 or 800-677-1116 • www.ncoa.org

A nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that helps people 50 and older improve the quality of their lives.

Caregiver Action Network 2000 M St. NW, Suite 400, Washington, D.C. 20036 202-772-5050 www.caregiveraction.org A family caregiver organization working to improve the quality of life for the more than 65 million Americans who care for loved ones with chronic conditions, disabilities, disease, or the frailties of old age.

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services 7500 Security Blvd., Baltimore, MD 21244 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227) 877-486-2048 TTY www.cms.gov • www.medicare.gov • www.medicaid.gov CMS is committed to transparency of data about quality and cost of care provided by physicians, hospitals and other health care professionals.

First Government 800-FED-INFO or 800-333-4636 • www.usa.gov As the U.S. government's official web portal, USA.gov makes it easy for the public to get U.S. government information and services on the web.

NCOA is a nonprofit service and advocacy organization representing older adults and the community organizations that serve them.

National Institutes of Health 8600 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20894 www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus MedlinePlus is the National Institutes of Health's website for patients and their families and friends. Produced by the National Library of Medicine, it brings information about diseases, conditions, and wellness issues. MedlinePlus offers reliable, up-to-date, free health information.

National Institute on Aging 31 Center Drive, MSC 2292, Bethesda, MD 20892 800-222-2225 or 800-222-4225 TTY www.nia.nih.gov The NIA is dedicated to understanding the nature of aging, supporting the health and well being of older adults, and extending healthy, active years of life for more people.

Social Security Administration St. Cloud Social Security Office (Serving McLeod and Meeker counties) 3800 Veterans Drive, Suite 100, St. Cloud, MN 56303 800-772-1213 or 800-325-0778 TTY www.ssa.gov Social Security helps older Americans and workers who become disabled, and families in which a spouse or parent dies. About 165 million people work and pay Social Security taxes and about 58 million people receive monthly Social Security benefits.

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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Hubert H. Humphrey Building 200 Independence Ave., SW, Washington, D.C. 20201 877-696-6775 • www.hhs.gov The U.S. government’s principal agency for protecting the health of all Americans and providing essential human services.

Administration for Community Living Administration on Aging Administration for Community Living Washington, D.C. 20201 202-619-0724 • www.acl.gov • www.aoa.gov

The AoA provided home and community-based services through the programs funded under the Older Americans Act.

Eldercare Locator 800-677-1116 (to find local resources) www.eldercare.gov

Connecting people to services for older adults and their families.

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs 810 Vermont Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20420 800-827-1000 for benefits • 877-222-8387 for health care 800-273-8255 press 1 for Veterans Crisis Line www.va.gov VA offers assistance to veterans. It operates a health care system, with hospitals, clinics, community living centers, domiciliaries, readjustment counseling centers, and other facilities. It administers benefits and services that provide financial and other forms of assistance to servicemembers, veterans, their dependents and survivors. And it operates national cemeteries.

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AGENCIES & ORGANIZATIONS MINNESOTA GOVERNMENT AGENCIES & ORGANIZATIONS Minnesota Board on Aging P.O. Box 64976, St. Paul, MN 55164 800-882-6262 • 800-627-3529 TTY www.mnaging.org The Minnesota Board on Aging is the gateway to services for Minnesota seniors and their families. It administer funds from the Older Americans Act that provide a spectrum of services to seniors, including Senior LinkAge Line, insurance counseling and more.

Minnesota Department of Commerce Division of Energy Resources 85 Seventh Place E., Suite 500, St. Paul, MN 55101 651-539-1886 or 800-657-3710 http://mn.gov/commerce/energy Provides information on a variety of topics — energy, banking and finance, insurance, real estate, securities and franchises, and telecom.

Minnesota Department of Human Services 444 Lafayette Road N., St. Paul, MN 55155 651-431-2000 • 800-627-3529 TTY http://mn.gov/dhs Helps provide essential services to Minnesota’s most vulnerable residents, including seniors, people with disabilities, and children.

Agencies continued on Page 10

Prairie Senior Cottages

When a comfortable, stress-free environment is combined with trained caregivers, people with Alzheimer’s Disease or related memory disorders experience a better quality of life.

Prairie Senior Cottages, LLC

Prairie Senior Cottages features

Built on Preserving Dignity

For more information, call John Peterson.

Hutchinson: 320-587-5508 Alexandria: 320-763-8244 Willmar: 320-235-6022 New Ulm: 507-359-3420

N02183

• 24-Hour On-site Caregivers • Secured Building • Nutritious Family Style Meals • Specialized Programming • RN Supervision & Case Management • Medication Supervision • Daily Personal Hygiene • Personal Laundry • Housekeeping • Personal Transportation • Professional Management

www.prairieseniorcottages.com

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AGENCIES & ORGANIZATIONS

Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs State Veterans Service Building 20 12th St. W., No. 2, St. Paul, MN 55155 888-546-5838 • 800-627-3529 TTY 800-273-8255 Press 1 for Veterans Crisis Line, chat online, or send a text message to 838255 for 24/7 support http://mn.gov/mdva A state agency dedicated to serving veterans and their families by assisting them in securing state and federal benefits, and by providing programs and services relating to higher education, benefits, burial, claims, outreach and veterans preference. MDVA also operates five veterans homes.

MinnesotaHelp NOW! 800-333-2433 Senior Linkage Line 866-333-2466 Disability Linkage Line 888-546-5838 Veterans Linkage Line www.MinnesotaHelp.info • Chat online with an expert A free service that helps people find human services, information and referrals, financial assistance, and other forms of help.

Minnesota’s Capitol is in St. Paul.

Minnesota House of Representatives 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

St. Paul, MN 55155 651-296-2146 or 800-657-3550 www.house.leg.state.mn.us

McLeod County Public Health

Minnesota Office of the Attorney General

McLeod County Social Service Center

1400 Bremer Tower, 445 Minnesota St. St. Paul, MN 55101 651-296-3353 or 800-657-3787 www.ag.state.mn.us

Minnesota Office of the Governor 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

St. Paul, MN 55155 • 651-201-3400 or 800-657-3717 http://mn.gov/governor

McLeod Social Service Center 1805 Ford Ave. N., #200, Glencoe, MN 55336 320-864-3185 • www.co.mcleod.mn.us McLeod Social Service Center 1805 Ford Ave. N., Suite 100, Glencoe, MN 55336 320-864-3144 or 800-247-1756 • www.co.mcleod.mn.us

McLeod County Veteran Services 2381 Hennepin Ave. N., Glencoe, MN 55336 320-864-1268 • www.co.mcleod.mn.us

Minnesota Senate

Meeker County Meeker County Courthouse

75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

St. Paul, MN 55155 651-296-0504 or 888-234-1112 www.senate.leg.state.mn.us

Meeker County Public Health

Minnesota State Council on Disability 121 E. Seventh Place, Suite 107, St. Paul, MN 55101 651-361-7800 or 800-945-8913 Voice/TTY www.disability.state.mn.us

COUNTY GOVERNMENT AGENCIES & ORGANIZATIONS McLeod County McLeod County Courthouse 830 11th St. E., Glencoe, MN 55336 320-864-5551 • www.co.mcleod.mn.us

McLeod County License Center 2391 Hennepin Ave. N., Glencoe, MN 55336 320-864-1312 • www.co.mcleod.mn.us

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325 Sibley Ave. N., Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-5200 • www.co.meeker.mn.us Meeker County Family Service Center 114 Holcombe Ave. N., Suite 250 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-5370 • www.co.meeker.mn.us

Meeker County Social Services Meeker County Family Service Center 114 Holcombe Ave. N., Suite 180 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-5300 or 877-915-5300 www.co.meeker.mn.us

Meeker County Treasurer Driver’s license, permits & ID cards 325 Sibley Ave. N., Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-5345 • www.co.meeker.mn.us

Meeker County Veteran Services 114 Holcombe Ave. N., Suite 120 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-5445 • www.co.meeker.mn.us

Your Dignity & Independence Is Our Top Priority Prince of Peace Retirement Living is designed for your independence with an assurance that personalized services are available. For your comfort, we offer one or two bedroom apartments decorated with your own personal items. Come and go as you wish.

Life here is about independence.

For your peace of mind, we also offer optional meals, housekeeping, and health care ala carte to “Celebrating 20 years of Excellence” assist you with your changing needs.

Life here is about dignified services.

For your convenience, we offer a full line of activities and opportunities to meet with your Retirement Living neighbors who share common and unique 301 Glen Street SW, Hutchinson experiences.

Life here is about community.

320-234-7588 www.poprl.org

DO YOU WORRY ABOUT YOUR

parents getting older?

The First Alert emergency pendant from McLeod Co-op Power may be just the thing they need to help you worry less while they live on their own.

One press of the button will call the 24-hour medical dispatch center, which will send a family member, neighbor or police over to help. The pendant allows them to work outside in the garden or go to the mailbox, and still summon help if they need it.

Emergency pendants are leased for $30 a month (plus a $49 installation charge).

DO YOU WORRY ABOUT

mom or dad living alone?

1-800-494-6272 N02802 Z

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ARTS & ACTIVITIES

FILE PHOTO

Hutchinson’s Memorial Day observance begins with a solemn parade of veterans traveling along Hassan Street from the American Legion Post to McLeod County Veteran’s Park.

Community celebrations, theater, museums offer opportunities for senior involvement

R

esearch shows that people who are sociable, generous, and goal-oriented can be happier and less depressed than other people.

There are plenty of options or places for seniors to be socially active. The following are suggestions of social and productive activities people can be involved in: Volunteer at a library, hospital, or senior facility.

Join a senior center/take a community education class.

Play cards and other games with friends.

Go to a theater performance or sporting event.

Travel or go on a tour with a group of older adults.

Garden in a community park.

Take a cooking class or art class.

Sing in a choral group.

Join a local theater troupe.

Form or join a book club.

Go dancing.

Take a group exercise class.

Audition for a community theater play.

Join a group interested in a hobby you like, such as knitting or wood carving.

On the following pages are a variety of festivals, fairs, community celebrations, plays, musicals, and museums in McLeod and Meeker counties that people can attend, volun-

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teer at or participate in throughout the year:

FESTIVALS, FAIRS, CELEBRATIONS Memorial Day: May 26 Memorial Day events take place in a number of local towns. Check local newspapers for details.

Manannah Daze: June 6 The small village kicks off summer with a variety of activities, including volleyball and horseshoe tournaments, tractor pulls and a street dance. The parade on Saturday is followed by a pageant, where Manannah men dress in drag to compete for the title of “Miss” Manannah.

Water Carnival: June 15-21 The annual Hutchinson summer celebration includes a boat parade, canoe races, carnival midway, Miss Hutchinson pageant, kiddie parade, outdoor concerts and various sporting events.

Eden Valley’s Valley Daze: June 18-21 Eden Valley celebrates every June with a parade, carnival, live music, food stands, a tug-of-war tournament and an annual youth fishing contest.

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ARTS & ACTIVITIES

Glencoe Days Celebration: June 19-20 Many of the celebration’s favorite activities, including live music, great food, and fireworks, will be at Oak Leaf Park. The celebration’s annual parade will be on Saturday.

Litchfield Watercade: July 9-12 The annual citywide celebration includes a fireworks display, golf tournament, parade, art in the park, medallion hunt, 4-mile run, fishing contest, kiddie parade, Little Crow water ski show, and coronation.

RiverSong Musical Festival: July 17-18 Experience live music along the Crow River in Masonic West River Park, Hutchinson. The festival features music by artists and bands from across the nation performing in a number of genres, including folk, blues, jazz, and celtic.

Cosmos Space Festival: July 17-19 The annual Space Festival is expected to be an out-ofthis-world event, including the crowning of Little Miss Universe and Man in the Moon, fireworks, parade and a cow pie bingo.

Prairie Days: July 17-19 This fun-filled weekend in Lester Prairie includes an all-school reunion, beanbag tournament, kiddie parade, grande parade and fireworks.

Orange Spectacular: July 24-26 North America’s largest Allis Chalmers show features family activities, vendors, food and exhibits at the McLeod County Fairgrounds, Hutchinson.

Meeker County Fair: July 30-Aug. 2 It’s the annual “Fairest Days of Summer” for county residents the first weekend in August. The county fair features traditional fair activities, such as exhibits and showing of livestock, carnival rides, exhibitors, live music and demolition derbies.

Pola-Czesky Days: July 30-Aug. 2 Silver Lake’s annual celebration includes a queen coronation, classic car show, parade, street dance, live music, a flea market, parade, tractor pull, and polka Mass.

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Watkins Kraut ‘N’ Wurst Days: July 31-Aug. 1 Residents celebrate their German heritage in a celebration that includes a parade, Little Miss Watkins pageant, cow drop raffle, and a feast of bratwurst and sauerkraut.

Heatwole Threshing Show: Aug. 7-8 Take in threshing demonstrations with more than 150 tractors on display. Crafts and flea market vendors, blacksmith shop, engines and equipment displays, and other demonstrations on Walden Avenue, six miles southwest of Hutchinson.

Winsted Summer Festival: Aug. 7-9 The city celebration includes a canoe/kayak race, car show, sports tournaments, live music, pork chop dinner, polka Mass, parade, fireworks, and coronation.

641 Parker Ave-Hwy 12, Dassel

(320) 275-2711

114 Main St. N., Hutchinson

(320) 234-7627

623 12th Street East Suite 1, Glencoe

(320) 864-5565 www.snapfitness.com

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ARTS & ACTIVITIES

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Darwin Twine Ball Celebration: Aug. 8 It’s one of Minnesota’s unique landmarks — Darwin’s big ball of twine. Dubbed the World’s Largest Twine Ball Collected by One Person, the spherical collection is celebrated with a parade, mini-rod races, craft fair, and pork chop dinner.

Antique Car Run: Aug. 8 The New London to New Brighton Antique Car Run with vehicles from 1908 and earlier covers 120 miles, including traveling through Meeker County, making stops in Grove City, Litchfield and Kingston.

Cokato Corn Carnival: Aug. 10-12 The annual carnival serves up free corn on the cob, a parade and live music.

Grove City AugustFest: Aug. 13-16 Grove City celebrates summer with a tractor pull, mud volleyball, horseshoe, trap shooting, classic car show, petting zoo, arts and crafts, parade, and talent show.

McLeod County Fair: Aug. 13-17 McLeod County celebrates 141 years of tradition and agriculture. It features traditional fair activities, such as exhibits and showing livestock, carnival rides, exhibitors, live music, AutoCross and demolition derbies.

MusicFest 2015: Aug. 14-16 Polka Lovers Klub of America will present Music Fest 2015 at Pla-Mor Ballroom, 1904 Ninth St. E., Glencoe.

Polka bands will perform throughout the weekend.

Minnesota Garlic Festival: Aug. 15 The premier event for lovers of garlic is held at the McLeod County Fairgrounds in Hutchinson. This family event features fragrant food, celebrity chefs, music, area artisans, games and lots of garlic.

Forest City Stockade Rendezvous: Aug. 15-16 The stockade, a replica of a fort built by Forest City residents during the 1862 Dakota Conflict, is home to a variety of old-fashioned activities, demonstrations and food.

Some reconstructed period buildings include a newspaper office, church, woodwright shop, gun shop, pottery and candle-making shop, land office, and a school.

Forest City Thresher Days: Aug. 15-16 Thresher Days include a tractor parade, displays of antique tractors and other farm equipment, along with threshing and corn shredding demonstrations.

Dassel Red Rooster Days: Sept. 4-7 Labor Day weekend is time to celebrate, with an ambassadors coronation, parade, Minnesota’s Largest Chicken Barbecue, and other activities.

Forest City Pioneer Christmas: Dec. 5 The Forest City Stockade takes on a winter holiday theme during its annual Pioneer Christmas. Activities include horse-drawn sleigh rides, visits with Santa, Christmas caroling and old-fashioned ornament making.

There’s also plenty of food and other activities.

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SUBMITTED PHOTO

U.S. Army Field Band: Jazz Ambassadors will perform March 23 at Dassel-Cokato Performing Arts Center.

COMMUNITY THEATER Dassel-Cokato Performing Arts Center Dassel-Cokato High School, 4852 Reardon Ave. S.W. Cokato www.dc.k12.mn.us/pac/index.html • 320-286-4120

U.S. Army Field Band: Jazz Ambassadors The U.S. Army Field Band: Jazz Ambassadors, a 19member ensemble, is the official touring big band of the United States Army. Their diverse repertoire includes big band swing, bebop, Latin, contemporary jazz, standards, popular tunes, Dixieland, vocals, and patriotic selections.

They will perform at 7 p.m. March 23 at Dassel-Cokato Performing Arts Center. The concert is free, but tickets are required. Tickets will be available beginning Feb. 26.

Seating is general admission.

Transit Authority: A Tribute to Chicago Transit Authority is a tribute band to the music of Chicago. This group of eight professionals takes audiences through more than three decades of music and countless hits. Transit Authority will perform at 7 p.m. April 25 at the Dassel-Cokato Performing Arts Center. Tickets for reserved seating are $25 for adults and $10 for youth.

Member ticket sales begin March 30, and public ticket sales begin March 31.

Hutchinson Theatre Company Buy tickets at www.hutchtheatre.org, call 320-587-7278 or in person at: • Hutchinson Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, on the corner of Main Street and Second Avenue.

• Hutchinson Center for the Arts, 15 Franklin St. SW

‘Leading Ladies’ In this comedy two English Shakespearean actors, Jack and Leo, find themselves so down on their luck that they are performing on the Moose Lodge circuit in the Amish country of Pennsylvania. When they hear that an old lady

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ARTS & ACTIVITIES is about to die and leave her fortune to her two long-lost English nephews, they resolve to pass themselves off as her beloved relatives and get the cash. The trouble is, they find out that the relatives aren’t nephews, but nieces.

Romantic entanglements abound.

Performances are at 7 p.m. March 19-21 and 26-28 at Hutchinson Center for the Arts. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $18.

‘The Fantasticks’ “The Fantasticks” tells the story of a young man and woman, whose parents have built a wall to keep them apart. The youngsters nevertheless contrive to meet and fall in love. The story is based on the notion that children — of whatever age — cannot fall in love unless their love is forbidden. Shows will be at 7 p.m. in August. Dates and location to be determined. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $18.

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ARTS & ACTIVITIES

Litchfield Community Theatre will present “A USO Show Across the Ages: From World War II to Viet Nam.” The show is a salute to soldiers and veterans, and it will include comedians, musicians, dancers and singers.

Arts & Activities continued from Page 15

‘The Taffetas’ It’s 1950-something, and Kaye, Peggy, Cheryl and Donna, four singing sisters from Muncie, Ind., are making their national television singing debut. “Spotlight on Music,” a fictitious weekly 1950s television show sets the framework for an evening of some of the greatest hits of the 1950s.

“The Taffetas,” accompanied by a three-piece band, pay tribute to the sounds of The McGuire Sisters, The Fontane Sisters and The Chordettes. Performances will be at 7 p.m. Nov. 5-7 and Nov. 12-14 at Crow River Winery in Hutchinson.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Dinner starts at 6 p.m. Tickets are $40 per person (dinner is included).

Litchfield Community Theatre & Litchfield Community Youth Theatre www.litchfieldcommunitytheatre.com • 320-693-2354 Buy tickets online or in person at Litchfield Community Education, inside the Meeker County Family Service Center, 114 Holcombe Ave. N., Suite 110, Litchfield. Most performances are at Bernie Aaker Auditorium, also inside the Meeker County Family Service Center.

‘A USO Show Across the Ages’ Litchfield Community Theatre will present “A USO Show Across the Ages: From World War II to Viet Nam.” The show, designed as a salute to soldiers and veterans, will include comedians, musicians, dancers, singers and actors from the community performing acts from the 1940s through the 1970s. This is LCT’s second annual “USO Show.” Performances will be at 7 p.m. March 5-7 and March 13-14, as well as at 2 p.m. March 8 and 15.

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‘My Son Pinocchio Jr.’ Litchfield Community Youth Theatre will present Disney’s “My Son Pinocchio Jr.” This new musical retells the classic Disney story, “Pinocchio,” from Geppetto’s perspective. Join the Blue Fairy, Stromboli and a lively cast of characters as Geppetto journeys beyond the toy shop to discover the meaning of family. Performances will be April 16-19 at Litchfield High School Little Theater.

‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’ Litchfield Community Theatre will present “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.” The musical is based on the beloved 1968 film version of Ian Fleming’s children’s book, “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.” An eccentric inventor, Caractacus Potts sets about restoring an old race car from a scrap heap with the help of his children Jeremy and Jemima. They soon discover the car has magical properties including the ability to float and take flight. Trouble occurs when the evil Baron Bomburst desires the magic car for himself. The family joins forces with Truly Scrumptious and batty Grandpa. Performances will be July 17-19 and July 24-26 at Bernie Aaker Auditorium.

Holiday Showcase The annual Holiday Showcase features the singing and music talents of area residents. The Holiday Showcase usually is the first Saturday in December; it tentatively is scheduled for Dec. 5 at Bernie Aaker Auditorium.

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ARTS & ACTIVITIES

MUSEUMS

DINING & entertainment Advertise here! Call Advertising Director Kevin True at 320-234-4141.

We offer rides to VA medical appts at the

Cokato Museum and Akerlund Studio, 175 Fourth St. W. Learn about the history of Cokato and the surrounding townships in southwestern Wright County. For information, call 320-286-2427.

Dassel History Center and Ergot Museum, 901 First St. N. Both are housed in the historic Universal Laboratories building, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. For information, call 320-275-3077.

G.A.R. Hall and Meeker County Historical Society Museum, 380 Marshall Ave. N., Litchfield. The G.A.R. Hall was the first Grand Army of the Republic meeting hall built is Minnesota. The museum was added to the rear of the historic hall in 1960. For information, call 320693-8911.

Minneapolis (even days) and St. Cloud (odd days) VA Medical Centers.

To schedule a ride call 320-693-5445

Are you aware of your benefits?

Federal and State Benefits May Include: • Compensation • Pension • Vocational Rehabilitation • Dependent’s and Survivor’s Benefits • Home Loans

• Medical Care • Education • Burial Benefits • State Dental and Optical Care • Special Needs Grants

Don Dufner

Meeker County Veterans Service Officer

320-693-5445

Donald.Dufner@co.meeker.mn.us Please call Don or Linda Meeker County Family Services Bldg.

114 N. Holcombe Ave. Suite 120 Litchfield, MN 55355

*Benefits subject to approval the Department of Veterans Affairs

Hutchinson Center for the Arts, 15 Franklin St. SW. Learn about the Hutchinson-area art scene. For information, call 320-587-7278 or www.HutchinsonArts.org.

McLeod County Historical Museum, 380 School Road N.W., Hutchinson. Learn about local history through its exhibits, research library, monthly programs and special events. For information, call 320-587-2109.

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FUN

• Lunch Specials Wed - Sun • Space Available for Small Parties • Meat Raffles Every Sat (Oct-Mar) • Space Available For Small Parties • Access to NFLs & ALL BIG TEN GAMES

• Nightly Dining 7 Days A Week • Event Planning • Pull Tabs, Dart Machines • Big Screen TVs • FREE Meeting Room Available For Non-Profits

BAR OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK HAPPY HOUR: MONDAY - FRIDAY 4 PM - 6:30 PM

&FOOD!

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Any Lunch Madness Combo 6 different Combos to choose from!

VALID MONDAY – FRIDAY 11 AM – 2 PM Not valid with any other coupons, discounts, or offers. Limit one coupon per person per visit.

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Fun and Relaxing!

Try our Delicious Senior Meals Great variety of entrees!

1040 Hwy. 15 South, Hutchinson • 320-234-9453 (in front of Hutchinson Mall)

Call ahead for convenient take-out!

FEBRUARY 2015 | SILVER PAGES • ZEST

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Hwy. 7 W., Hutchinson • 587-2352

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Open daily 11 am — 1 am

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END OF LIFE

Hospice offers care in last stages of life

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hen a loved one’s death is imminent, hospice can provide comfort to the patient and family.

Hospice offers comprehensive, state-of-the-art care and support for people with life-limiting illnesses and those who love them.

A team of professionals and volunteers provide this care working with the patient and family. Your hospice team members use their experience and skills to carry out your wishes.

Hospice offers medical care with the goal toward maintaining or improving quality of life for someone whose illness, disease or condition is unlikely to be cured. Each patient’s individualized care plan is updated, as needed, to address the physical, emotional and spiritual pain that often accompanies terminal illness.

Hospice care also offers practical support for the caregiver(s) during the illness and grief support after the death.

Hospice is something more that is available to the patient and the entire family when curative measures have been exhausted and life prognosis is six months or less, according to the Hospice Foundation of America.

Care comes to the patient Hospice services are provided in the setting that the patient calls home, whether it’s their private residence or that of a loved one, a hospital, assisted living center, or nursing home. Some hospices have their own long-term residential center where they provide hospice care.

The majority of hospices follow

People grieve differently

The goal of hospice care is to improve the quality of a patient’s last days.

Medicare requirements to provide necessary services to manage the illness, including: Time and services of the care team, including visits to the patient’s location by the hospice physician, nurse, medical social worker, homehealth aide and chaplain/spiritual adviser.

Medication for symptom control or pain relief.

Medical equipment and supplies.

Medicare-covered services needed to manage pain and other symptoms related to the terminal illness, as recommended by the hospice team.

Grief and loss counseling for patient and loved ones.

Coping with the loss of a spouse, close friend or family member can be one of the hardest challenges many people face, according to the American Psychological Association.

Loss is understood as a natural part of life, but people still can be overcome by shock and confusion, leading to prolonged periods of sadness or depression. Everyone reacts differently to death and employs personal coping mechanisms for grief. There is no “normal” time period for someone to grieve.

Mourning the loss of a spouse or relative takes time, but research says it also can be the catalyst for a renewed sense of meaning that offers purpose and direction to life.

According to the American Psychological Association, people who are grieving can use some of the following strategies to help come to terms with their loss: Talk about the death of your loved one with friends and colleagues.

Accept your feelings. People experience all kinds of emotions after the death of someone close.

Take care of yourself and your family. Eating well, exercising and getting plenty of rest help people get through each day.

Remember and celebrate the life of your loved one.

HOSPICE PROVIDERS Glencoe Allina Health Home Care Services 211 Freemont Ave. SE, Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-234-5031 • www.allinahealth.org

Hutchinson Allina Health Home Care Services 211 Freemont Ave. SE, Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-234-5031 • www.allinahealth.org

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Litchfield Divine Home Care: Litchfield office 201 Sibley Ave. S., Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-2580 • www.divinehomecare.com Ecumen of Litchfield Hospice 600 S. Davis Ave., Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-7367 www.ecumenoflitchfield.org/home-care

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END OF LIFE

Caregivers need care, should seek assistance

Y

our father has dementia, your mom falls periodically, and your neighbor struggles with grocery shopping. They all need your assistance now, in one way or another.

Before you realized it, you entered a new phase of your life — caregiving.

A caregiver is a relative, friend or neighbor who provides care for an older or disabled adult.

Caregiving is important work and it can be rewarding, but it can also be overwhelming, according to the Minnesota Board on Aging.

If you are a caregiver, it is important to realize that it is OK to ask for help.

Assistance is available through Caregiver Consultants, professionals trained in providing individual support for family caregivers. In-person or over the phone, a caregiver consultant will listen to your concerns and help you develop a plan of action depending

Caregiver resources The pressure of caring for another person can take a toll on your health.

Caregivers often feel anxious, overwhelmed and depressed. If this sounds like you, it is important to decrease stress in your life: Take time for yourself and make your health a priority. Keep doctor appointments, get flu shots, eat well and stay active.

Seek out and accept assistance from friends and family members.

Accept that there are situations you cannot control, and develop realistic expectations.

Don’t struggle alone with your caregiving responsibilities. Help is available: Senior LinkAge Line: 800-333-2433.

Minnesota Live Well At Home: www.mnlivewellathome.org Family Caregiver Alliance: www.caregiver.org National Alliance for Caregiving: www.caregiving.org National Family Caregiver’s Association: www.thefamilycaregiver.org on your needs.

For a referral to a caregiver consultant, call the Senior LinkAge Line at 800-333-2433. The Minnesota Board

on Aging also is dedicated to addressing the needs of older adults and their families. For information, call 800882-6262 or go to www.mnaging.org.

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END OF LIFE

Funerals help people say goodbye, honor life

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unerals fill an important role for those mourning the loss of a loved one. By providing surviving family members and friends a caring, supportive environment in which to share thoughts and feelings about the death, funerals are the first step in the healing process, according to the National Funeral Directors Association.

The ritual of attending a funeral service provides many benefits including: Providing a social support system for the bereaved.

Helping the bereaved understand death is final and that death is part of life.

Integrating the bereaved back into the community.

Easing the transition to a new life after the death of a loved one.

Providing a safe haven for embracing and expressing pain.

Reaffirming one’s relationship with the person who died.

Providing a time to say good-bye.

It is possible to have a full funeral service even for those choosing cremation. As more people are choosing cremation, funeral service professionals are striving to give consumers a true sense of what their many options are for a funeral service.

The importance of the ritual is in providing a social gathering to help

the bereaved begin the healing process, according to the National Funeral Directors Association.

A funeral is so much more than a way to say goodbye; it’s an opportunity to celebrate the life of someone special.

A funeral can be as unique as the individual who is being honored. Often, people have hobbies that become more than just a casual pastime. Showcase that important part of their life during the funeral or memorial service — display items they made, awards they won, or personalize the casket or urn with a symbol of their hobby. By adding personal touches to a funeral, the service becomes a reflection of the person’s life and personality.

FUNERAL HOMES Cokato Swanson-Peterson Funeral Home 655 Broadway Ave. S. Cokato, MN 55321 320-286-2534 www.swansonpeterson.com

Darwin Hantge Funeral Chapel 100 First St. Darwin, MN 55324 320-693-8710 www.hantge.com

Dassel Johnson Funeral Home 611 Second St. N. Dassel, MN 55325 320-275-3381 www.jfamilyfuneralhome.com

Eden Valley Williams Dingmann Family Funeral Homes 233 State St. N. Eden Valley, MN 55329 320-453-3608 www.williamsdingmann.com

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Glencoe Johnson-McBride Funeral Chapel 1222 Hennepin Ave. Glencoe, MN 55336 320-864-3737 • www.hantge.com

Hutchinson Dobratz-Hantge Funeral Chapel & Crematory 899 Highway 15 S. Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-2128 • www.hantge.com

Lester Prairie Paul-McBride Funeral Chapel 23 Fir St., P.O. Box 668 Lester Prairie, MN 55354 320-395-2513 • www.hantge.com

Litchfield Johnson-Hagglund Funeral Home 316 S. Sibley Ave. Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-8151 www.johnsonhagglund.com

Silver Lake Maresh Funeral Home 105 Main St. W. Silver Lake, MN 55381 320-327-2417 www.mareshfuneralhome.com

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Stewart Hughes-Hantge Funeral Chapel 805 Powers St. S. Stewart, MN 55385 320-562-2312 • www.hantge.com

Watkins Ertl Funeral Home 221 Church St. Watkins, MN 55389 320-764-2800 • www.ertlfuneral.com

Winsted Chilson Funeral Home 200 Fairlawn Ave. W. Winsted, MN 55395 320-485-4447 www.chilsonfuneralhome.com

MONUMENTS Darwin Monument 116 Highway 12 E. Darwin, MN 55324 320-693-5902 http://darwinmonument.com Minnesota Valley Granite 730 Chandler Ave. Glencoe, MN 55336 320-864-2784 http://mnvalleygranite.com

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END OF LIFE

Pre-planning a funeral can provide emotional, financial peace of mind

T

Some people plan their own funeral before they die, and see it as an extension of their will and estate planning.

hinking about your own funeral might make you feel a little uneasy, but more adults are finding that pre-planning a funeral offers emotional and even financial security for themselves and their families.

With pre-planning, families find comfort in knowing that the funeral reflects what their loved one wanted.

It also gives them peace of mind to not have to make important decisions at a stressful time, according to the National Funeral Directors Association.

If you are considering pre-arranging a funeral, contact funeral homes in your community. A funeral director can walk you through the prearrangement process.

Once you’ve made your prearrangements, keep a copy of the plan and any pertinent paperwork in a safe place. Also, inform a close friend or relative what arrangements have been made and where the information can be found.

If you choose, there are several ways to prepay for your funeral that can offer you financial benefits.

However, prepaying is not required, but an option that many individuals find helpful.

If you feel pre-paying is a wise decision, be sure to go over all available options with your funeral director.

Remember, like any contract, ask all questions you might have regarding your pre-need plan before you sign an agreement.

MHS

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www.mhslaw.com TOLL FREE 1.888.442.5155 FEBRUARY 2015 | SILVER PAGES • ZEST

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EYE CARE

Annual eye exams can help detect diseases, changes

I

t’s a fact of life that vision changes occur as people get older. But these changes don't have to compromise people’s lifestyle.

Knowing what to expect and when to seek professional care are important steps to safeguarding your vision, according to the American Optometric Association.

As people reach their 60s and beyond, they need to be attentive to warning signs of age-related eye health problems that could cause vision loss, according to the American Optometric Association.

Many eye diseases have no early symptoms. They might develop painlessly and people might not be aware of changes to their vision until the condition is quite advanced. But wise lifestyle choices and regular eye exams can significantly improve people’s chances of maintaining good eye health even as they age.

Eye, vision problems In the years after people turn 60, a number of eye diseases can develop that can change people’s vision permanently. The earlier these problems are detected and treated, the more likely you can retain good vision.

The following are some vision disorders that the American Optometric Association suggests people should be aware of: Age-related macular degeneration is an eye disease affecting the macula, the center of the light sensitive retina at the back of the eye, causing loss of central vision.

Although small, the macula is the part of the retina that allows us to see fine detail and colors. Activities like reading, driving, watching TV and recognizing faces all require good central vision provided by the macula. While macular degeneration causes changes in central vision, peripheral or side vision remains unaffected.

Diabetic retinopathy is a condition occurring in people with diabetes. It is the result of progressive

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damage to the tiny blood vessels that nourish the retina. They leak blood and other fluids that cause swelling of retinal tissue and clouding of vision. The condition usually affects both eyes. The longer a person has diabetes, the more likely they will develop diabetic retinopathy, which can cause blindness.

Retinal detachment is a tearing or separation of the retina from the underlying tissue. It can be caused by trauma to the eye or head, health problems like advanced diabetes, and inflammatory disorders of the eye.

But it most often occurs spontaneously as a result of changes to the gel-like vitreous fluid that fills the back of the eye. If not treated promptly, it can cause permanent vision loss.

Cataracts are cloudy or opaque areas in the normally clear lens of the eye. Depending upon their size and location, they can interfere with normal vision. Usually cataracts develop in both eyes, but one may be worse than the other. Cataracts can cause a decrease in contrast sensitivity, a dulling of colors and increased sensitivity to glare.

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases characterized by damage to the optic nerve resulting in vision loss. People with a family history of glaucoma, African Americans and older adults are at higher risk for developing the disease.

Dry eye is a condition in which there is an insufficient amount of tears or a poor quality of tears to lubricate and nourish the eye. Tears are necessary for maintaining the health of the front surface of the eye and for providing clear vision. Dry eyes are a common and often chronic problem, particularly in older adults.

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An annual eye exam from an ophthalmologist or optometrist can help catch eye diseases, like glaucoma and macular degeneration, early.

Need an eye exam?

Make an appointment for a complete eye exam if you have: Trouble seeing objects on either side.

Difficulty seeing at night or when reading.

Gradual loss of the sharpness of your vision.

Difficulty telling colors apart.

Blurred vision when trying to view objects near or far.

Diabetes or a family history of diabetes.

Eye itching or discharge.

Vision changes that seem related to medication. (Do not stop or change a medication without talking to your doctor.)

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EYE CARE

Tips for people living with visual impairment Here are tips to make living with a visual impairment more manageable: Brushing teeth — Use colored or striped toothpaste, as these are easier to see on the white bristles of a toothbrush. Or, squirt the toothpaste directly into your mouth and brush.

Using a cell phone — Many cell phones are voice activated and can be used by voice commands. Have someone help you program yours to use voice activation features.

Marking dials on the stove — Use puff paint or tactile paint, available at fabric stores, to mark key points on the dial. Or, liquid WhiteOut can be used to mark black or dark colored stove dials.

Matching socks — Pin socks together before placing them in the laundry. Use brass or stainless steel safety pins as they will not rust.

Pouring liquids into a cup — Pour coffee into a white mug; the contrasting color of the coffee and the mug will make it easier to see how full the cup is. Or place your index finger into the cup; you will feel when the liquid touches your finger.

Lighting — Increase the amount of light and focus it directly over the task you are doing. LED lights, natural light and natural daylight bulbs are recommended. Do not use fluorescent lights, as fluorescent light causes glare.

OPTICIANS & OPTOMETRISTS Cokato Cokato Eye Center 115 Olsen Blvd. NE, Suite 300 Cokato, MN 55321 320-286-5695 www.cokatoeyecenter.com

Glencoe

Hutchinson Southwest Eye Care 225 Main St. S. Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-2593 www.southwesteyecare.net

Gerry’s Vision Shoppe Inc. 1234 Greeley Ave. N. Glencoe, MN 55336 320-864-6111 www.gerrysvisionshoppe.com

Midwest Vision Centers Hutchinson Mall 1060 Highway 15 S. Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-2370 www.midwestvisioncenters.com

Shopko Eyecare Center 3225 10th St. E. Glencoe, MN 55350 320-864-6005 www.shopko-optical.com

Primary Eyecare 1059 Highway 15 S., Plaza 15 Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-4744 http://primaryeyecare2020.com

Southwest Eye Care 1201 Greeley Ave. N., #3 Glencoe, MN 55336 320-864-2020 www.southwesteyecare.net

Regional Eye Center 1455 Montreal St. SE Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-6308 www.regeyecenter.com

Shopko Eyecare Center 125 Main St. N. Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-4945 www.shopko-optical.com Walmart Vision Center 1300 Highway 15 S. Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-1020 www.walmart.com

Litchfield Family Eye Center 517 N. Sibley Ave. Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-2020 www.fischerlaser.com Litchfield Eye Center 135 N. Sibley Ave. Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-3100 www.litchfieldeyecenter.com Primary Eyecare 520 E. Highway 12, Suite 106 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-9333 www.primaryeyecare2020.com

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HEARING

Doctors can help diagnose, assist people who experience hearing loss

H

earing loss is a natural sign of aging due to a change in the structure of the ear.

Unfortunately, hearing loss can affect people’s lives in many ways. It can range from missing certain sounds to total loss of hearing.

Hearing loss can be serious. People who have a hard time hearing might not hear their smoke detector alerting them to a fire. They might miss out on talks with friends or family. Hearing problems can make people feel anxious, upset, and left out. It’s easy to withdraw from people when you can’t follow what is being said at the dinner table or in a restaurant. Friends and family might think people with hearing loss are confused, uncaring, or difficult when they’re really having trouble hearing.

Two types of hearing loss There are two kinds of hearing loss common in older people, according to the National Institute on Aging: Presbycusis is a common type of hearing loss that comes on slowly as a person ages. It seems to run in families and affects hearing in both ears. The degree of hearing loss varies from person to person. A common sign of early hearing loss is not being able to hear a phone ringing.

Tinnitus causes a ringing, roaring, or hissing noise in your ear. Tinnitus can accompany many types of hearing loss.

It also can be a sign of other health problems, such as high blood pressure or allergies. Often it is unclear what causes tinnitus, which can be permanent, come and go, or go away quickly.

Other causes of hearing loss Hearing loss can have other causes, including: Build-up of earwax.

Chronic middle or inner ear infections.

Medical conditions like diabetes or a brain tumor.

High blood pressure.

Exposure to excessive noise like heavy machinery.

A blood clot in nerves of the ear.

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Tips to cope with hearing loss in yourself, others Many people develop hearing problems as they grow older. Here are some tips if you have trouble hearing or if you are talking with someone who has a hearing problem.

After age 65, one out of three Americans experiences at least some hearing loss.

High blood pressure.

Meniere’s disease (excess fluid in canals of the inner ear).

When to see a doctor See your doctor if you: Have trouble hearing over the telephone.

Find it hard to follow conversations when two or more people are talking.

Often ask people to repeat what they are saying.

Need to turn up the TV volume so loud that others complain.

Have a problem hearing because of background noise.

Think that others seem to mumble.

Can’t understand when women and children speak to you.

Your doctor might be able to diagnose and treat your hearing problem. Or, your doctor might refer you to other clinicians such as an otolaryngologist, a doctor who specializes in medical problems of the ear, nose, and throat (also called an ENT doctor), or an audiologist, who is trained to measure hearing and provide services to improve hearing.

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What to do if you have trouble hearing: Let people know that you have trouble hearing.

Ask people to face you and to speak more slowly and clearly.Also, ask them to speak without shouting.

Pay attention to what is being said and to facial expressions or gestures.

How to help a person who has trouble hearing: Find a quiet place to talk; help reduce background noise, especially in restaurants and social gatherings.

Stand in good lighting and use facial expressions or gestures to give clues.

Face the person and talk clearly.

Speak a little more loudly than normal, but don’t shout.

Speak at a reasonable speed; do not hide your mouth, eat, or chew gum.

Try to make sure only one person talks at a time.

Be patient. Stay positive and relaxed.

Ask how you can help.

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HEARING HEARING CARE PROVIDERS Glencoe

Hearing Help Audiology Clinic Kamrath Chiropractic Building 125 Main St. S., #1 Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-3636 http://hearinghelpaudiology.com

Hearing Care Specialists 1130 Hennepin Ave. N. Glencoe, MN 55336 320-300-4852 www.hcshearing.com

Hutchinson Hearing Aid Center-Audibel 903 Highway 15 S. Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-7557 or 888-718-0260 www.hutchhearing.com

Pin Drop Hearing/ All American Hearing 2915 10th St. E. Glencoe, MN 55336 320-587-2585 www.allamericanhearing.com/hearing-aids/pin-drop-hearing-glencoe

Connect Hearing 100 Washington Ave. E. Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-234-6825 www.connecthearing.com

Hutchinson Avada Audiology & Hearing Care 102 Main St. S., Suite 204 Hutchinson, MN 55350 612-204-2215 www.avada.com

Litchfield Connect Hearing 338 E. U.S. Highway 12 Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-0885 www.connecthearing.com Harmony Center For Hearing 32 E. Second St. Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-4210 Litchfield Hearing Aid Center 517 N. Sibley Ave. Litchfield, MN 55355 320-593-0333 www.litchfieldhearing.com

Excellence in hearing Care

Every Day!

Everyday Services: Hearing evaluations — no charge, no pressure Hearing aid service — all brands New hearing aids in all price ranges Satisfaction or your money back — more than 90% success rate

HUTCH HEARING AID 320-587-7557

903 Hwy. 15 S., Hutchinson (Frontage Road next to The Coffee Company)

Tom Eggimann

Karl Benson

Owner/Hearing Instrument Specialist

Hearing Instrument Specialist

Pam Pulkrabek Office Manager

LITCHFIELD HEARING AID 320-593-0333

517 N Sibley Ave., Litchfield

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HOME CARE

Home care offers seniors independence

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or some people, there’s no place like home for growing old. With the right help, through home care, some people can do just that.

Home care encompasses a wide range of health and social services, according to the Minnesota Home Care Association.

These services are delivered at home to recovering, disabled, chronically or terminally ill persons in their own homes.

Their needs may be medical, nursing, social, therapeutic treatment and/or assistance with the essential activities of daily living.

Generally, home care is appropriate when a person prefers to stay at home, but needs ongoing care that cannot easily or effectively be provided solely by family and friends.

Home care services can be provided in the client’s home, which can be a single-family dwelling, apartment, assisted living facility, group home, residential housing facility, adult day

Home care includes a range of health and social services. care, according to the Minnesota Home Care Association.

Types of home care include:

Personal Care Assistance program provides services to people who need help with day-to-day activities to allow them be more independent in their own home.

Occupational therapists help individuals who have physical, developmental, social, or emotional problems that prevent them from performing general activities of daily living.

Physical therapists work to restore the mobility and strength of patients who are limited or disabled by physical injuries.

Speech and language pathologists work to develop and restore the speech of individuals and also retrain patients in breathing, swallowing, and muscle control.

Private duty home care organizations provide broad range of services from medical care to bill paying.

A Private Duty Team is composed of non-Medicare certified organizations assisting clients with services such as meal preparation, transportation and personal care.

HOME CARE PROVIDERS Eden Valley Cheryl’s Nursing Pool Inc. 209 State St. N., P.O. Box 65, Eden Valley, MN 55329 320-453-7007

Glencoe

Grove City Grove City Area C.A.R.E Program 200 South Ave., P.O. Box 192, Grove City, MN 56243 320-857-2274 • www.grovecitymn.com/care.html

Hutchinson

Allina Health Home Care Services 211 Freemont Ave. S.E., Hutchinson, MN 55350 651-635-9173 www.allinahealth.org/Medical-Services/Care-at-home

Allina Health Home Care Services 211 Freemont Ave. SE, Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-234-5031 www.allinahealth.org/Medical-Services/Care-at-home

Dominion Home Health Services 1205 10th St. E., Glencoe, MN 55336 320-864-9926 or 800-470-9366 www.dominionhomehealth.com

Prairie River Home Care Inc. 246 Main St. S., Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-5162 or 800-624-9024 www.prhomecare.com

Guardian In Home Health & Security 2071 10th St. E., Glencoe, MN 55395 320-864-6544 or 877-401-9371 www.guardianinhomehealth.com

Litchfield Divine Home Care 201 Sibley Ave. S., Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-2580 • www.divinehomecare.com Ecumen of Litchfield Home Care 600 S. Davis Ave., Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-7367 • http://ecumenoflitchfield.org/home-care

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HOME CARE

Consider many factors when searching for a home care provider When looking for a home care provider, consider asking the following questions of providers and other individuals who might know about a home care provider’s track record.

Their insight will help you determine which provider is best for you or your loved one.

1. How long has this provider been serving the community?

2. Does this provider supply literature explaining its services, eligibility requirements, fees and funding sources?

3. How does this provider select and train its employees?

4. Does it protect its workers with written personnel policies, benefits packages, and malpractice insurance?

5. Are nurses or therapists required to evaluate the patient’s home care needs? If so, what does this entail? Do they consult the patient’s physicians and family members?

6. Does this provider include the patient and family members in developing the plan of care? Are they involved in making care plan changes?

7. Is the patient’s course of treatment documented, detailing the tasks to be carried out by each professional caregiver?

8. Does the patient and his or her family receive a copy of this plan, and do the caregivers update it as changes occur?

9. Does this provider take time to educate family members on the care being administered to the patient?

10. Does this provider assign supervisors to oversee the quality of care patients are receiving in their homes? If so, how often do these individuals make visits?

11. Who can the patient and his or her family members call with questions or complaints?

12. How does the agency follow up on and resolve problems?

13. Does the provider furnish written statements explaining all of the costs and payment plan options associated with home care?

14. What procedures does this provider have in place to handle emergencies?

15. Are its caregivers available 24 hours a day, seven days a week?

16. How does this provider ensure patient confidentiality?

17. In addition, ask the home care provider to supply you with a list of references, such as doctors, discharge planners, patients or their family members who are familiar with the provider’s service. Contact each reference and ask: Do you frequently refer clients to this provider?

What sort of feedback have you gotten from patients receiving care from this provider?

Do you know of any clients this provider has treated whose cases are similar to mine or my loved one’s? If so, can you put me in touch with these individuals?

320.693.2580 www.divinehomecare.com

Liv and Live d re recover at home

Litchfield Nurses & Office Staff

We provide care for you in your own home: nursing, home health aide, physical therapy and more!

Call us today!

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HOSPITALS & CLINICS

Be prepared before visiting the doctor

A

basic plan can help you make the most of your doctor appointment whether you are visiting a new doctor or specialist or continuing with a doctor you’ve seen for years.

The following tips will make it easier for you and your doctor to cover everything you need to talk about.

Before your appointment Make a list of what you want to discuss. For example, do you have a new symptom you want to ask the doctor about? Are you concerned about how a treatment is affecting your daily life?

If you have more than a few items to discuss, put them in order and ask about the most important ones first.

Bring information with you Some doctors suggest you put all your prescription drugs, over-thecounter medicines, vitamins, and herbal remedies or supplements in a bag and bring them with you. Others recommend you bring a list of everything you take. When you make your appointment, ask what your doctor prefers. You should also bring your insurance cards, names, and phone numbers of other doctors you see, and your medical records if the doctor doesn’t already have them.

Remember to bring your eyeglasses to the doctor’s visit. If you have a hearing aid, make sure it is working well and wear it. Let the doctor and staff

Before going to the doctor, make a list of what you want to talk about.

When you go to the doctor, bring all the medications you’re taking, as well as insurance cards. It can be helpful to bring a family member or friend to take notes or help you remember what the doctor said. know if you have a hard time seeing or hearing. For example, you can say: “My hearing makes it hard to understand everything you’re saying. It helps when you speak slowly.”

Sometimes it is helpful to bring a family member or close friend with you. Your companion can remind you what you planned to discuss with the doctor if you forget, she or he can take notes for you, and can help you remember what the doctor said.

Update the doctor Tell your doctor what has happened in your life since your last visit. If you have been treated in the emergency room or by a specialist, tell the doctor right away. Mention any changes you have noticed in your appetite, weight, sleep, or energy level. Also tell the doctor about any recent changes in any medications you take or the effects they have had on you.

HOSPITALS & CLINICS Cokato Allina Medical Clinic 110 Olsen Blvd., Cokato, MN 55321 320-286-2123 • www.allina.com

Dassel Dassel Health Clinic (Affiliated with Hutchinson Health) 460 Fifth St., Dassel, MN 55325 320-275-3358 http://hutchhealth.com/locations_hours/

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Meeker Memorial Clinic (Affiliated with Meeker Memorial Hospital) 740 Parker Ave. (U.S. Highway 12), Dassel, MN 55325 320-275-4330 www.meekermemorial.org/meeker-clinic-in-dassel

Glencoe Glencoe Regional Health Services 1805 Hennepin Ave. N., Glencoe, MN 55336 320-864-3121 or 888-526-4242 http://grhsonline.org

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HOSPITALS & CLINICS Hutchinson Hutchinson Health Clinic 3 Century Ave. S.E., Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-234-3290 or 800-944-2690 http://hutchhealth.com/locations_hours/ Hutchinson Health Hospital 1095 Highway 15 S., Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-234-5000 or 800-454-3903 www.hutchhealth.com

Meeker Memorial Hospital 612 S. Sibley Ave., Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3242 www.meekermemorial.org

St. Cloud St. Cloud Hospital-CentraCare Health System 1406 Sixth Ave. N., St. Cloud, MN 56303 320-251-2700 or 800-835-6652 www.centracare.com/locations/st-cloud-hospital

Stewart

Lester Prairie Glencoe Regional Health Services 1024 Central Ave., Lester Prairie, MN 55354 320-864-7816 or 800-869-3116 http://grhsonline.org/lester-prairie-clinic

Glencoe Regional Health Services 300 Bowman St., Stewart, MN 55385 320-864-7816 or 800-869-3116 http://grhsonline.org/stewart-clinic

Winsted

Litchfield Affiliated Community Medical Centers East Clinic 611 Sibley Ave. S., Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3233 • www.acmc.com West Clinic 520 Sibley Ave. S., Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3233 • www.acmc.com

Ridgeview Winsted Clinic 551 Fourth St. N., Winsted, MN 55395 952-442-3190 www.ridgeviewmedical.org/locations/ridgeview-winstedclinic

Simple Solutions to worry-free prescriptions & packaging!

Make your life easier!

COORDINATED REFILL PROGRAM It’s like having a single prescription instead of 10!

No need to phone in prescription refills Fewer trips to the pharmacy No worries about running out of medication Monthly reminder call from the pharmacy to pick up refills.

1 2 3

One week before your scheduled pick up or delivery, a pharmacy staff member will call you.

We will have a monthly consultation where we see how you are feeling, review your prescriptions, vitamins and supplements, as we look for ways to SAVE you money on your medications.

Make an appointment with one of our staff members to enroll in the Simplify My Meds Program

The Hutchinson Area’s Hometown and Home-owned Pharmacies Where your Good Health is our only Focus!

Bring all of your prescriptions as well as your vitamins or supplements to the appointment Together we will establish your refill date and provide you and your physician a summary of your drug list

Phone: 320-587-2509 1-800-944-1795 Downtown–1 block East of Post Office

Phone: 320-587-3638 Medical Center Building

www.familyrexall.com

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PHARMACY

Take steps to manage medications

M

odern medicine has made people’s lives better in many ways. It has helped people live longer, healthier lives.

But people 65 and older have to be careful when taking medications, especially when they’re taking many different drugs. Some people refer to the pills, liquids, creams, or sprays they take as “medicine,” and other people call them “drugs.” Both words can mean: Medicines you get from a pharmacy with a doctor’s prescription.

Pills, liquids, or creams you buy without a prescription to use now and then, for example, for aches and pains, colds, or heartburn.

Vitamins or dietary supplements you take regularly Drugs you get without a doctor’s prescription are called over-the-counter medicines. Because mixing certain medicines can cause problems, be sure to let your doctor know about all the prescription and over-the-counter drugs you are taking.

If you’ve gone to your doctor because you don’t feel well, the doctor might decide a medicine will help and will write a prescription. Be sure you: Tell your doctor or nurse about all the medicines you take whenever a new drug is prescribed.

Remind your doctor or nurse about your allergies and any problems you have had with medicines, such as rashes, indigestion, dizziness, or mood changes.

Understand how to take the medicine before you start using it. Ask questions. It might help to write down the answers.

Talk to your pharmacist Your pharmacist is an important part of your healthcare team. If you have questions about your medicine after you leave the doctor’s office, the pharmacist can answer many of them.

Try to have all your prescriptions filled at the same pharmacy so your records are in one place. The pharmacist will keep track of all your medications and will be able to tell you if a new drug might cause problems. If you’re not able

If people have questions about their medicine after they leave the doctor’s office, a pharmacist can answer many of them. to use just one pharmacy, show the new pharmacist your list of medicines and over-the-counter drugs when you drop off your prescription.

Tell the pharmacist if you have trouble swallowing pills; there might be liquid medicine available. Do not chew, break, or crush tablets without first finding out if the drug will still work.

Make sure you can read and understand the name of the medicine and the directions on the container and on the color-coded warning stickers on the bottle. If the label is hard to read, ask your pharmacist to use larger type.

Check that you can open the container. If not, ask the pharmacist to put your medicines in bottles that are easier to open.

Ask about special instructions on where to store a medicine. For example, should it be kept in the refrigerator or in a dry place?

Check the label on your medicine before leaving the pharmacy. It should have your name on it and the directions given by your doctor. If it doesn’t, don’t take it, and talk with the pharmacist.

PHARMACIES Cokato Keaveny Drug 205 Broadway Ave. S., Cokato, MN 55321 320-286-5483 www.keavenydrug.com/cokato.html

Dassel Peterson Pharmacy 440 Fourth St. N., Dassel, MN 55325 320-275-3052

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Glencoe Coborn’s Pharmacy 2211 11th St. E., Glencoe, MN 55336 320-864-5192 www.coborns.com/pharmacy.aspx Shopko Hometown Pharmacy 3225 10th St. E., Glencoe, MN 55336 320-864-5026 www.shopko-pharmacy.com

Hutchinson Cash Wise Pharmacy 1020 Highway 15 S., Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-8070 www.cashwise.com/pharmacy.aspx Family Pharmacy South Medical Center Building 3 Century Ave. S.E., #D, Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-3638 www.familyrexall.com Family Rexall Drug 237 Hassan St. S.E., Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-2509 or 800-944-1795 www.familyrexall.com Shopko Pharmacy 125 Main St. N., Hutchinson, MN, 55350 320-587-4941 www.shopko-pharmacy.com Target Pharmacy 1370 Highway 15 S., Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-7113 www.target.com

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PHARMACY Walmart Pharmacy 1300 Highway 15 S., Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-1020 www.walmart.com

Litchfield Econofoods Quality Care Pharmacy 951 Frontage Road E., Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-3261 or 800-400-2185 www.econofoods.com/departments/pharmacy The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy 329 Highway 12 E., Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-9314 www.medicineshoppe.com Walmart Pharmacy 2301 E. Frontage Road, Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-1022 www.walmart.com

Winsted Keaveny Drug 150 Main Ave. W., Winsted, MN 55395 320-485-2555 www.keavenydrug.com/winsted.html

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SENIOR DINING

Senior dining, delivered meals offer nutritious options

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warm lunch, time to socialize, an opportunity to see old friends or make new ones are among the offerings at senior dining sites in the area.

Lutheran Social Services manages many congregate or senior nutrition sites in the area. The sites are open to people 60 and older and their spouses on a donation basis and anyone at full price.

The suggested donation for a meal is $7 for people age 59 or younger, and $4 for people age 60 or older. However, no one will be turned away because of inability to pay.

Reservations usually must be made by noon the day before the meal, often by leaving a message on the answering machine at the phone number listed.

Plan ahead and enjoy letting someone else cook a warm meal for you.

Meals on Wheels Lutheran Social Services provides home-delivered meals, or Meals on Wheels, to people in area counties, including Kandiyohi, McLeod, Meeker and Renville. To make arrangements, call the site phone number listed

Senior dining offers nourishment for the mind and body.

Participants have an opportunity to socialize with others while dining on a warm, nutritious meal.

below.

The Meals-on-Wheels program provides a hot, nutritious meal for seniors age 60 and older who are home-bound and unable to prepare their own meals. Home-delivered meals help seniors maintain good health and remain in their own homes, according to Lutheran Social Services.

A well-balanced meal can boost immunity and reduce the risks for many health-related conditions and prevent the need for nursing home or

assisted living care prematurely.

Volunteers greet and get to know the seniors when they deliver the meals.

Meals typically are delivered Monday through Friday. Frozen meals are available for weekends, holidays and other closure days. People can choose their delivery schedule and choose a combination of hot meals and frozen meals to be delivered on specific days.

Meal prices are the same as congregate dining. Contact 800-488-4146 for additional information.

SENIOR CENTERS, DINING SITES & HOME-DELIVERED MEALS Brownton Brownton Senior Dining Brownton Community Center 310 Second Ave. N., Brownton 320-328-4181 Meals are served at 11:20 a.m.

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday.

Cokato Cokato Senior Dining Cokato Apartments I Community Room 440 Second St. N., Cokato 320-286-2758 Meals are served at 11:45 a.m.

Monday through Friday.

Cosmos Cosmos Senior Dining Cedar Crest 130 Neptune St. N., Cosmos

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320-877-9100 Meals are served at noon Monday through Friday. Call by 2:30 p.m. the day before to make a reservation.

Darwin Darwin No senior dining is available.

However, Meals on Wheels are delivered two days a week from Litchfield.

Call 866-974-0464 for arrangements.

Dassel Dassel Senior Citizens Dassel History Center & Ergot Museum 901 First St. N., Dassel 320-275-3077 Coffee and treats are served from 2 to 4 p.m. on Wednesdays. Seniors visit, play cards and board games.

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Dassel Senior Dining Lakeside Health Care 439 William Ave. E., Dassel 320-275-3308 Meals are served at 11:30 a.m.

Monday through Friday.

Eden Valley Eden Valley Senior Dining Eden Valley Civic Center 171 Cossert Ave., Eden Valley 320-453-8375 Meals are served at 11:30 a.m.

Monday through Friday.

Glencoe Glencoe Senior Citizens Glencoe City Center 1107 11th St. E., Glencoe 320-864-3799 or 320-510-1551 Seniors meet at 12:30 p.m. every

Tuesday and Thursday. Lunch is served at 2 p.m. for those attending.

Annual membership fee is $1.

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SENIOR DINING

The Meals-onWheels program provides a hot, nutritious meal for seniors age 60 and older who are home-bound and unable to prepare their own meals.

Home-delivered meals help seniors maintain good health and remain in their own homes.

Glencoe Senior Dining Millie Beneke Manor 1319 Greeley Ave. N., Glencoe 320-864-5282 or 864-5728 Meals are served at 11:30 a.m.

Monday through Friday.

Grove City Grove City Senior Dining South Grove Square 200 South Ave., Grove City 320-857-2274 or 877-480-5310 ext. 219 Meals are served at 11:30 a.m.

Monday through Friday.

Hutchinson Hutchinson Senior Center Hutchinson Event Center, Plaza 15 1005 Highway 15 S., Hutchinson 320-234-5656 www.hutchinsoneventcenter.com/ senadapt.html

Stewart

Hutchinson Senior Dining Evergreen Apartments 115 Jefferson St. SE, Hutchinson 320-587-6029 Seniors gather from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday. Bingo is played from 10 to 11 a.m. Meals are served at about 11:15 a.m. Call by 6 a.m. the day before to make a reservation.

Stewart Senior Dining Stewart Community Center 551 Prior St., Stewart 320-562-2730 Meals are served at 11:15 a.m.

Monday through Friday.

Watkins Watkins Senior Dining St. Anthony Manor Apartments 131 Church St., Watkins 320-764-5615 Meals are served at 11:30 a.m.

Monday through Friday. Activities also take place.

Hutchinson Senior Dining Park Towers 133 Third Ave. SW, Hutchinson 320-587-2559 Meals are served at noon Monday through Friday.

Litchfield Litchfield Meals on Wheels Ecumen of Litchfield has volunteers who deliver meals to seniors in their own homes, seven days a week. For information, call 320-693-3454.

Litchfield Senior Dining Litchfield Civic Arena 900 Gilman Ave. N., Litchfield 320-693-6318 Activities begin at 10:45 a.m.

Dinner is served at 11:30 a.m.

Monday through Friday.

Seniors often play cards or bingo at dining sites and senior centers.

Silver Lake Silver Lake Senior Dining Community Building Auditorium 308 Main St. W., Silver Lake 320-327-2621 Meals are served at 11:30 a.m.

Monday through Friday.

Winsted Winsted Senior Dining Linden Wood Apartments 215 Linden Ave. W., Winsted 320-485-4303 or Joyce 320-543-3368 or Judi 763-227-7198 Meals are served at 11:30 a.m.

Monday through Friday. Winsted Senior Citizens also meet at 9 a.m.

Tuesdays at Linden Wood Apartments for bingo.

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SENIOR LIVING

Finding the right place to live M

ost people prefer to remain in their own homes if possible. Sometimes resources in the community such as meal delivery service, housekeeping, transportation or other in-home assistance provide enough support so your parent can remain at home, in familiar surroundings.

However, sometimes people opt to move to a smaller residence, whether it’s to have less upkeep and responsibilities of a house, to live in a one-level residence, or to be closer to their grown children and grandchildren.

The type of housing people choose largely will depend on three factors: people’s needs, finances, and the service and supportive options available in a facility, according to the Family Caregiver Alliance and National Center on Caregiving.

The Family Caregiver Alliance provides a list of different types of living arrangements, and many can be found in McLeod and Meeker counties: N Small apartment, condominium or one-story house. These can be found in your community or near another family member.

N Retirement community. Independent retirement communities usually offer individual apartments in a multi-unit setting, with group meals, transportation, housekeeping services and numerous organized social and enrichment activities. Amenities and prices vary from place to place. Some offer access to a nurse or nurse practitioner. As care needs increase, additional services often can be added for a fee.

N Residential care facility. These facilities are small group homes that provide supervision, meals and care for people who cannot be left alone but do not require skilled nursing care.

Residential care facilities provide assistance with bathing, grooming, eating, using the toilet, and walking, and they also provide socialization and recreational activities. Rooms may be private or shared.

N Assisted living facility.

Individuals who are somewhat independent but require daily oversight

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Senior citizens move from their homes for a variety of reasons, from wanting a smaller home to a desire to live near a grown child. and assistance with housekeeping, medication management and personal care will want to consider an assisted living facility. Assisted living facilities offer rooms or apartment-style accommodations and, often, social activities.

Meals are provided in a shared dining room. Staff is available to assist with care needs. Medical staff might be onsite or on call.

N Intermediate care facility. This type of facility provides around-theclock care for those who require help with bathing, grooming, going to the toilet and walking. Individuals in these facilities cannot live independently and require nursing care, although the nursing care is not offered 24 hours a day. Residents generally require a lower level of care than is offered in skilled nursing facilities.

N Skilled nursing facility: Commonly called nursing homes, these facilities provide nursing services 24 hours a day and are designed to provide high levels of personal and medical care, such as administration of injections, monitoring of blood pressure, managing ventilators and intravenous feedings to individuals who cannot function independently. People living in skilled nursing facilities usually require help with the majority of their self-care needs.

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Downsizing tips Moving to a smaller residence often brings the need to pare down the years of accumulated belongings to the key things, the favorite things you want to have around and need or enjoy using.There will be many emotions and memories stirred up because, in essence, you are sorting through the years of your life.Take time for recalling memories, to shed tears as you need to, and to share stories with friends and family.

The following are tips for going through years of accumulated belongings in your home.

N Begin in the areas of the house that you are currently not using because it will be least disruptive to everyday life.

N Start with the large items in each room and work your way down to the small items. If you start with the small items, you might get overwhelmed and frustrated before you even get started.

N Sort items in each room as follows: items to keep, items to pass on to family or friends, items to sell at a garage sale or auction, items for charity, and items to throw away.

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SENIOR LIVING SENIOR APARTMENTS, CONDOMINIUMS & RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES Brownton Midway Apartments 122 Fourth Ave. S. Brownton, MN 55312 507-351-3759 www.smrrental.com/midway-apartments Parkview Apartments 424 Second Ave. N. Brownton, MN 55312 507-351-3759 www.smrrental.com/parkviewapartments

Cokato Edgewood Gables 600 Third St. E., Cokato, MN 55321 320-286-2159

Dassel Augustana Lakeside Apartments 439 William Ave. E. Dassel, MN 55325 320-275-3308 http://lakesidecampus.org

Eden Valley Edenbrook Apartments 169 Hambroer St. Eden Valley, MN 55329 320-587-2483 www.kpmanagementonline.com

Glencoe Beihoffer Apartments 715 Greeley Ave. Glencoe, MN 55336 320-587-2483 www.kpmanagementonline.com Glenhurst Apartments 515 Abby Lane, Glencoe, MN 55336 320-864-4393 Millie Beneke Manor 1319 Greeley Ave. N. Glencoe, MN 55336 320-864-5282 www.nationwidegrp.com/properties/Millie-Beneke-Manor Orchard Estates 1900 Ford Ave. N. Glencoe, MN 55336 320-864-7798 http://grhsonline.org/senior-services

Park Place Apartments 2201 14th St. E. Glencoe, MN 55336 320-587-2483 www.kpmanagementonline.com

Grove City

Lester Prairie

South Grove Square 200 South Ave. Grove City, MN 56243 320-857-2715

Prairie Manor Apartments 201 Elm St. N. Lester Prairie, MN 55354 320-587-2483 www.kpmanagementonline.com

Hutchinson Community of Lake Ridge Century Avenue/Dale Street SW Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-6115 http://hometownmn.com/developments.html Evergreen Apartments 115 Jefferson St. SE Hutchinson, MN 55350 800-661-2501 www.bdcmgmt.com Green Castle Condominiums 250 Freemont Ave. SE Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-4040 Leona Apartments 225 Echo Circle Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-2483 www.kpmanagementonline.com North Place Apartments 415 School Road N. Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-2483 www.kpmanagementonline.com Park Towers Apartments 133 Third Ave. SW Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-2168 www.hutchinsonhra.com/parktowers.html Prince of Peace Retirement Living 301 Glen St. SW Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-234-7588 www.poprl.org

South Place Apartments 1220 Brandford St. Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-2483 www.kpmanagementonline.com

Litchfield Emmaus Place 200 Holcombe Ave. N. Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-2430 www.ecumenoflitchfield.org Gloria Dei Manor 218 Holcombe Ave. N. Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-2430 www.ecumenoflitchfield.org Lincoln Apartments 122 Fourth St. W. Litchfield, MN 55355 • 320-693-2104

Silver Lake Lakeside Manor Apartments 127 Park Ave. Silver Lake, MN 55381 320-327-2536 Uptown Apartments 301 Center St. Silver Lake, MN 55381 507-625-5573 www.lloydmanagementinc.com/prop erty_details.php?prop_id=51

Watkins St. Anthony Manor 131 W. Church St. Watkins, MN 55389 • 320-685-9803

Winsted Linden Wood Apartments 215 Linden Ave. W. Winsted, MN 55395 320-485-4303 www.lindenwoodapartments.org

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SENIOR LIVING

Facilities offer different levels of care

S

ometimes, decisions about where to care for a family member need to be made quickly, for example, when a sudden injury requires a new care plan. Other times, a family has a while to look for the best place to care for an elderly relative.

A nursing home, also known as a skilled nursing facility, is a place for people who don’t need to be in a hospital but can no longer be cared for at home. This can include people with critical injuries or serious illnesses, or those needing care after surgery. Most nursing homes have aides and skilled nurses on hand 24 hours a day.

Nursing homes can be: N Hospital-like. This type of nursing home is often set up like a hospital.

Members of the staff give medical care, as well as physical, speech, and occupational therapy.

N Household-like. These facilities are designed to be more like homes, and the day-to-day routine is not fixed.

Teams of staff and residents try to create a relaxed feeling. Kitchens are often open to residents.

N Combination. Some nursing homes have a combination of hospitallike and household-like units.

If you need to go to a nursing home after a hospital stay, the hospital staff can help you find one that will provide the kind of care that’s best for you.

There are a variety of nursing home

When considering a senior living facility, the Family Caregiver Alliance suggests visiting each one and asking questions. A preliminary visit should reveal a facility that is clean, smells pleasant, has staff interacting with residents, and in which the residents are satisfied with their new home. and assisted living options available in McLeod and Meeker counties.

When looking for a nursing home or other senior living arrangement, the Family Caregiver Alliance suggests: N Consider what is important to you — nursing care, meals, physical therapy, a religious connection, hospice, or special units for dementia patients.

N Talk with others — friends, relatives, social workers — to find out what places they suggest.

N Get in touch with each place on your list. Ask questions about how

many people live there and what it costs. Find out about waiting lists.

N Visit at least twice at different times of day and ask questions. Make plans to meet with the director and the nursing director. Look for: Medicare and Medicaid certification, residents who look well cared for, warm interaction between staff and residents.

N Understand. Once you select a nursing home, read the contract. Ask about anything you don’t understand.

Have a friend or family member read the contract before you sign it.

ASSISTED LIVING & SKILLED NURSING FACILITIES Brownton Shade Tree Retirement Center 115 Fourth Ave. S. Brownton, MN 55312 320-328-5949

Cokato Brookridge 182 Sunset Ave. NW Cokato, MN 55321 320-286-3196

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Cokato Manor 180 Sunset Ave. NW Cokato, MN 55321 320-286-2158

Cosmos Cedar Crest Estates 130 Neptune St. N. Cosmos, MN 56228 320-877-9100 www.cedarcrestmn.com

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Dassel Lakeside Health Care Center 439 William Ave. E., PO Box 383 Dassel, MN 55325 320-275-3308 http://lakesidecampus.org

Glencoe Glencoe Regional Health Services Long Term Care 705 18th St. E., Glencoe, MN 55336 320-864-7790 or http://grhsonline.org/ltc-directionshours

Grand Meadows Independent and Assisted Living 1420 Prairie Ave. Glencoe, MN 55336 320-864-5577 www.grandmeadowsmn.com

Hutchinson Ecumen Oaks 945 Century Ave. SW Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-234-0873 www.ecumenoaksandpines.org Ecumen Pines 1015 Century Ave. S.W. Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-234-0873 www.ecumenoaksandpines.org Harmony River Living Center 1555 Sherwood St. SE Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-484-6000 www.harmonyriverliving.org

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SENIOR LIVING Emmanuel Home 600 Davis Ave. S. Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-6228 www.ecumenoflitchfield.org

Prairie Senior Cottages 1310 Bradford St. SE Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-587-5508 www.prairieseniorcottages.com Woodstone Senior Living Community 1025 Dale St. SW Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-234-8917 http://woodstoneseniorliving.com/ hutchinson

Silver Lake Cedar Crest Estates 1401 Main St. W. Silver Lake, MN 55381 320-327-6577 www.cedarcrestmn.com

Watkins

Litchfield Ecumen of Litchfield 600 Davis Ave. S. Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-2430 www.ecumenoflitchfield.org Bethany Assisted Living 203 Armstrong Ave. N. Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-2430 www.ecumenoflitchfield.org

Hilltop Care Center 410 Luella St. Watkins, MN 55389 320-764-2300

Winsted Saint Mary’s Care Center 551 Fourth St. N. Winsted, MN 55395 320-485-2151 www.stmaryscarecenter.org

Senior Living Community Offering Assisted Living & Memory Care Services

• 1 & 2 BR Apartments • Activities & Outings • Medication Administration • Meals Available 7 Days/Week • 24-Hour Staffing • Most Utilities Included • Housekeeping & Laundry Services • Bus for Group Outings

TOGETHER WE’RE CHANGING AGING Which Turns Out Pretty Fun

innovate empower honor ™

For information or to arrange a tour, call Pamela Kern at 320-234-0873 Ecumen Oaks • 945 Century Avenue SW, Hutchinson Ecumen Pines • 1015 Century Avenue SW, Hutchinson www.ecumenoaksandpines.org FEBRUARY 2015 | SILVER PAGES • ZEST

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TRANSPORTATION

Area bus, van services help seniors stay mobile

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etting older doesn’t make a person a bad driver.

However, there are changes that happen to a person’s body that can affect driving skills over time, according to the National Institute on Aging.

As people age, their joints can get stiff, and their muscles can weaken.

Their eyesight might change. At night, they might have trouble seeing things clearly. Their hearing can change, making it harder to notice horns, sirens, or noises from their own car.

Changes over time might slow how fast they react.

AARP Safe Driver classes are offered in Hutchinson and Litchfield through community education. These refresher courses are for people 50 and older. People can get a discount on their auto insurance by completing the course.

Getting around without a car Some people worry that if they stop driving, they won’t be able to do the

Is it time to stop driving a car?

People age differently. So, there is no way to set one age when everyone should stop driving.To help you decide if it’s time to stop driving, ask yourself: K Do other drivers often honk at me? Have I had some accidents, even if they are only fender benders?

K Do I get lost, even on roads I know?

K Do cars or people walking seem to appear out of nowhere?

K Have family or friends said they are worried about my driving?

K Am I driving less these days because I am not as sure about my driving as I used to be?

K Do I have trouble staying in my lane?

K Do I have trouble moving my foot between the gas and the brake pedals, or do I confuse the two?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, it might be time to think about whether you are a safe driver. things they want and need to do.

However, there are ways to stay mobile.

McLeod and Meeker counties have public bus transportation. Religious and civic groups sometimes have vol-

unteers who will drive people.

While there is a cost for transportation services, don’t forget, it costs money to own a car. If you aren’t making those payments, you might be able to afford other public transportation.

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES ACC Midwest Transportation 409 California St. NW, Hutchinson, MN 55350 320-455-9200 • www.accmidwest.com ACC Midwest provides transportation for people of all ages who are unable to drive. It offers ambulatory, wheelchair, and stretcher transportation in mid-western Minnesota.

Kandiyhoi Area Transit 1320 22nd S. SW, P.O. Box 186, Willmar, MN 56201 320-214-7433 or 888-750-7433 • www.katbus.org Kandiyhoi Area Transit runs between Willmar and Litchfield, on U.S. Highway 12, with stops in between.

Riders must be at least 60 years of age. People can use the program up to two times a week, or up to three times a week for medical appointments with a 48-hour notice.

Meeker Public Transit 812 Ripley St. E., Litchfield, MN 55355 320-693-7794 or 800-513-7433 www.ecumenoflitchfield.org Ecumen of Litchfield provides transportation for people of all ages through Meeker Public Transit for medical, personal or social events. Vehicles are equipped with a wheelchair lift.

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Schumacher Transportation 5208 Mayview Road, Minnetonka, MN 55345 888-473-3126 www.schumachertransportation.com Schumacher Transportation offers medical transportation and has specially equipped vehicles that accommodate wheelchairs, stretchers, and various other medical implements. It offers limited transport assistance for personal or social functions in McLeod and Meeker counties.

Trailblazer Transit 207 11th St. W., Glencoe, MN 55336 320-864-1000 or 888-743-3828 www.trailblazertransit.com Serves McLeod and Sibley counties. Trailblazer buses are equipped with an elevator for handicapped accessibility and for customers who have difficulty using the stairs.

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VOLUNTEERING

Volunteering provides sense of purpose

V

olunteering is good for people because it can strengthen the social ties that protect individuals from isolation during difficult times. In addition, the experience of helping others leads to a sense of greater self-worth and trust.

Several studies have found that volunteering leads to improved physical and mental health. Those who volunteer have lower mortality rates, greater functional ability and lower rates of depression.

Reasons to volunteer A study of adults age 65 and older found that the positive effect of volunteering on physical and mental health is due to the personal sense of accomplishment that an individual gains from his or her volunteer activities.

Volunteering can provide a sense of purpose, as found in a study of older adults; according to this study, formal volunteering moderated the loss of a sense of purpose among older adults who had experienced the loss of major role identities, such as wage-earner and parent.

Additional reasons to volunteer: N Develop a new skill or learn a new hobby.

N Be a part of your community.

N Meet new people.

N Accomplish a personal sense of achievement.

N Be a community leader.

N Transition into retirement.

N Inspire other people with your passion.

N Find creative ways to put your talent to work.

Volunteering can strengthen social ties that protect people from isolation. Volunteer opportunities are available in McLeod and Meeker counties.

Studies have found that volunteering leads to improved physical and mental health.

Before you volunteer N Think about the things you might be interested in and the number of hours you can volunteer.

N Think about what sparks your passion and what skills you might have — be creative.

N Write down your thoughts and then share with the call specialist.

Volunteer opportunities, local contacts N Retired Senior Volunteer Program, or RSVP, is a nationwide volunteer program offering adults age 55 and over the opportunity to use their life experiences and skills in service to their neighbors in need. For current volunteer opportunities in the four-county area (Meeker, McLeod, Renville and Kandiyohi), call 320-693-0194.

N McLeod County: Gail Sumerfelt 507-337-0382 or email at gail.sumerfelt@lssmn.org.

N Meeker County: Donna Whitcomb 320-693-0194 or email at donnawhitcomb@ecumen.org.

N Senior LinkAge Line: 800-333-2433 to link to an expert who can help you find volunteer opportunities.

N Minnesota Senior Corps oversees three volunteer programs: Foster Grandparent, Senior Companion and

RSVP. For more information, go online to www.mnseniorcorps.org.

N The National Senior Games is the premier event of the National Senior Games Association. The Games are a 19sport, biennial national championship for men and women 50 and older. In 2015, Minnesota will serve as host of the National Senior Games, which will attract 13,000 athletes to Minnesota. Volunteers will be needed. For more information, go to www.mnseniorgames.com.

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The more we care, the more beautiful life becomes.

Memories hold a connection to our past and a special link to our future. For those with higher care needs and memory loss, comfort can be found in a fulfilling and loving atmosphere. At Woodstone, we offer a smaller, more intimate, and personal setting for our residents to call home.

Featuring: • Private Apartments • 24 Hour Staffing • RN on staff • Home-Cooked Meals • Health Related Services • Social, Recreational & Wellness Activities

• Emergency Response System • Personal Related Services • Salon/Barber Shop • Chapel • Weekly Housekeeping • Weekly Laundry

Call today for your personal introduction!

1025 Dale Street SW, Hutchinson, Minnesota 320-234-8917

www.woodstoneseniorliving.com