Westmoreland Fifty Five Plus Magazine is published six times a year by Swanson Publishing, LLC (P.O. Box 425, Mars, PA 16046, 724-940-2444) and is distributed free of charge throughout the Westmoreland County. Subscription can be purchased from the publisher at $35 for one year.
The mission of the Swanson Publishing, LLC is to connect the people of Pittsburgh by publishing the area’s finest senior publication, Westmoreland Fifty Five Plus Magazine. The publication is dedicated to the people, communities, educational, religious, travel, health, and recreational needs of seniors in our area.
The contents of Westmoreland Fifty Five Plus Magazine may not be reproduced or copied in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. Westmoreland Fifty Five Plus reserves the right to refuse editorial or advertisements that do not meet the standards of this publication.
Welcome to Westmoreland 55+ Magazine!
Iam thrilled to introduce you to our newest publication, Westmoreland 55+ Magazine! As the president and publisher, I want to extend a warm welcome to our readers and share our excitement about bringing this resource to the vibrant and growing 55+ community of Westmoreland County.
With over 25 years of experience publishing Northern Connection Magazine and Pittsburgh 55+ Magazine, we’ve had the privilege of connecting communities, sharing valuable information, and supporting local businesses. Now, we’re excited to bring that same dedication and passion to Westmoreland with this bi-monthly magazine.
Our goal is to make Westmoreland 55+ Magazine a trusted resource for you, whether you’re seeking information on health and wellness, local events, recreation, or financial advice. We are committed to highlighting the stories, services, and resources that matter most to you.
I also want to give special thanks to Sharon Yezerski, our Publication Manager, who brings incredible vision, experience, and passion to this project. Sharon has deep roots in this community and is determined to deliver a high-quality publication that you’ll look forward to each issue.
You can find Westmoreland 55+ Magazine online, in your mailbox, or at local grocery stores and other high-traffic locations. For those who’d prefer to subscribe, we offer a convenient option to have the magazine delivered directly to your home for just $35 per year.
We are always eager to hear from our readers! Please feel free to reach out with your thoughts, ideas, or questions— your input helps us shape a magazine that truly reflects this community. And remember, it’s our wonderful advertisers who make this publication possible, so we encourage you to support them as they continue to support us.
Thank you for joining us on this exciting new journey! Together we continue to make our community an outstanding place to live, work, and retire.
Warm regards,
Laura Arnold President & Publisher Westmoreland 55+ Magazine
Laura Arnold
Sharon Yezerski
Mountain View Senior Living and Memory Care – The Summit of Senior Care Communities
By Janice Lane Palko
When you’ve been in an industry for 15 years, you know what works best, especially when you’ve come up through the ranks. That is the case with Michael Abittan, M.S., the owner of Mountain View Senior Living and Memory Care in Greensburg. Abittan, who rose from being a member of the kitchen staff to administrator of a senior facility, opened Mountain View Senior Living and Memory Care with the objective of providing its residents with the pinnacle of senior living in a beautiful, home-like setting in which they receive the highest quality of care.
Abittan and his team led by Amy Light-Ahlborn, PHCA, LPN, Executive Director, has 30 years of experience in personal care as well as being a nurse. “This enables us to provide personalized, first-class care at competitive prices. Our approach to personal care and community is simple: we put your loved ones first,” said Abittan.
At Mountain View, they believe that every stage of life is meant to be cherished, and they’ve carefully curated its newly renovated facility to create a space where residents feel pampered and celebrated. From luxury accommodations to convenient community amenities, there are plenty of reasons to feel at home in Mountain View.
Mountain View puts your loved one at the heart of everything it does, and you can depend on their experienced staff to deliver round-the-clock care employing the latest personal and senior care methodologies.
Abittan invested much to provide state-of-the art care and services for seniors. Both the Mountain View Senior Living and Memory Care communities are nestled on hilltops in Greensburg close to shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Mountain View Senior Living is located at 132 Nature Park Road and focuses on providing a wide range of levels of care including acute care in a picturesque setting. In addition to this high level of healthcare services,
Mountain View recently completed a renovation project which included the addition of two new state-of-theart lounges, a new dining hall, and upgraded rooms. Private and semiprivate rooms are available, and they feature many amenities including individualized heating and air conditioning units, private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, in-house physical therapy gym, free cable and access to streaming services, and free local telephone service.
Mountain View Senior Living also offers beautiful outdoor courtyard and dining, raised garden as well as 24-hour concierge service, state of the art surveillance system, in-house beauty parlor, comfortable and accommodating lounge areas with flat screen televisions.
“Mountain View is situated on 3 ½ acres providing gorgeous views for our residents,” said Abittan, “and yet we are close to everything.”
Abittan has thought of everything when it comes to Senior Living. Mountain View provides nutritious meals and snacks served under dietician supervision, a gourmet cafe and bistro food, and a la carte grill menu, which takes into consideration special diets.
Residents don’t have to worry about housekeeping, laundry or safety at Mountain View. And if a resident needs specialized care, arrangements can be made to bring in Podiatrists, Psychiatrists, Physician Visits, Physical, Occupation and Speech therapists; home heal/hospice and transportation to offsite visits.
In addition, at Mountain View there’s always something fun going on from exercise classes and games to trivia contests, crafts, and entertainment to social events such as Oktoberfest and outings to the nearby casino.
Like the senior living community, Mountain View Memory Care, located at 711 US-119, is located on another beautiful summit in Greensburg. There compassion meets expertise, and it offers a variety of conveniences and services to give families peace of mind that their loved ones are in the best of hands.
In addition to many of the amenities found at the senior living community, the Memory Care community provides a secure dementia unit for the safety of its residents and a broad spectrum of care levels customized for those with cognitive impairments. It features medication management and cognitive support designed to enhance positive experiences and reduce challenging behavior caused by dementia.
“The Memory Care residence also has a Dementia Care Specialist, Doreen C. Putnam Author, CDP®, CADDCT®, CMDCP®, CIPG, who serves as the facilitator for our Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support Group,” said Abittan. “Putnam has worked in the dementia field for more than three decades and is a seasoned facilitator.”
Her consulting firm, DCPutnam Consulting, currently educates family and professional caregivers and provides education programs to com-
munity organizations. She is the author of the children’s book, Sometimes Grandmama Doesn’t Know Me!
“From informative discussions to heartwarming connections, we’re here to provide support and understanding every step of the way,” said Abittan. “Whatever your needs, we at Mountain View are committed to providing an elevated experience for our residents,” said Abittan.
If you are interested in learning more about Mountainview or to schedule a tour, visit the website at: www.mountainviewsenior.com, or call: 724-953-5622. n
SDenni Grassel
By Janice Lane Palko
“I don’t know what your destiny will be, but one thing I do know: the only ones among you who will be really happy are those who have sought and found how to serve.” - Albert Schweitzer
he may not be the mayor, but it can’t be denied that Denni Grassel has served her community of Delmont. Denni, 64, worked for 14 years at the Delmont Library, 12 of them as the library’s director.
“I was a stay-at-home home mom for 21 years. My neighbor, Karen Baum, was the library board president. She told me there was a job opening. I’ve always loved books, have had a passion for children and promoting literacy,” said Denni, who has been married to her husband Bill for 39 years and is the mother of three and grandmother of two.
As director of the library, she hosted
events and helped to raise funds for the library including the new $1.3 million stateof-the-art library that opened in 2021. “We call it the ‘library of the future’ as it has solar paneling, LED lighting, geothermal heating and cooling, two electric vehicle charging stations as well as a cistern that collects stormwater from the roof to use for landscaping. It is really a community center as 14-16 different organizations meet there,” said Denni, who retired from the library at the end of 2022.
Denni’s community involvement doesn’t stop with the library. For the past
seven years she has also served as the chairperson for the Delmont Christmas Pilgrimage. A community tradition for 53 years, the Delmont Christmas Pilgrimage takes place the first weekend in December.
“Beginning at the Shield’s Farm Log Cabin, the Pilgrimage is an interactive, outdoor, live Christmas journey that encompasses eight scenes from the Christmas story,” said Denni. “It begins with the biblical prophecy of Jesus’ birth and concludes with Mary and Joseph caring for their newly born Son. We have dramatic lighting, music, and live animals, including several camels.”
“In the past, parents commented that it was difficult for small children to be quiet during the nightime Pilgrimages. Last year, we developed the daytime Pilgrimage Junior. This begins with the children being greeted by the Angel Gabriel, who will let them in on the great message that he’s about to bring to the world. The children are encouraged to ask questions throughout Pilgrimage Junior. Talking and laughing are encouraged,” said Denni. She noted that five Delmont churches and many volunteers participate in this community event. “When you add the crafters, food booths and bands to the Pilgrimage workers at Shield’s Farm, upwards of 200 volunteers take part,” said Denni. “Annually, about 2,000 people enjoy attending the Pilgrimage festivities.”
Denni’s community service is noteworthy, but it is even more impressive when it is considered that she is sightless. “I’ve always had vision and retina issues, but two weeks after receiving my second COVID vaccine, I lost my sight. I can only see light and dark,” said Denni, who is not letting that hold her back.
“I keep Jesus first in my life, and Delmont’s a wonderful place. This is just my new normal, and you’ve got to keep moving,” said Denni.
For more information on the Delmont Christmas Pilgrimage, visit: www.delmontpilgrimage.com n
Why Use an SRES®?
Retiring, downsizing, or moving due to a significant life event? A Seniors Real Estate Specialist® (SRES®) has specialized training and experience in addressing the unique needs of home buyers and sellers aged 50+.
An SRES® is your trusted ally and advocate throughout the buying and selling process, making real estate transactions for older adults less stressful and more successful.
Here are some reasons to choose an SRES® to assist you through your housing transitions.
TAILORED EXPERTISE IN SENIOR REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS
REALTORS® that have chosen to specialize in senior real estate transactions are uniquely positioned to address the needs of those over age 50. With training in everything from downsizing to the financial and emotional challenges often associated with later-life transitions, an SRES® understands that moving at this stage in life is about more than just buying or selling property—it's about planning for your future.
EXTENSIVE KNOWLEDGE OF LOCAL SENIOR HOUSING OPTIONS
From active adult communities to assisted living facilities, an SRES® knows the current market and the various housing options available to seniors in your area. They can help you find a home that best suits your lifestyle, health needs, and personal preferences, making them an invaluable guide through the process.
A NETWORK OF PROFESSIONALS THAT FOCUS ON 50+ CLIENTS
Working with an SRES® means having access to a broad network of professionals who are accustomed to the needs of older adults. This includes trustworthy referrals to lawyers, tax counselors, financial advisors, estate planners, downsizing specialists, and moving companies who are all experienced in working with senior clientele, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.
TRANSACTIONS HANDLED WITH COMPASSION AND PATIENCE
Choosing an SRES® means working with someone who understands the emotional aspects of your real estate decisions. They are skilled in handling the sensitive issues that often accompany selling a family home or buying a new one in later life. With an SRES®, you receive a patient advisor and an understanding partner who respects your history and your future.
Add contact information here
The Center for REALTOR® Development (CRD) confers the Seniors Real Estate l of the National
"I'm Your SRES®"
The Importance of Both Food-Based and Capsules of Omega-3 Fish Oil
Joseph C. Maroon MD, FACS
Omega-3 fatty acids are considered “essential” for human existence. This is because humans incorporate the omega-3 molecule into every cell membrane of our body. Our bodies cannot manufacture omega-3 by ourselves, and therefore it must be consumed in our diet, as seafood, or as dietary supplements.
Ihave personally done research on the numerous health benefits found using omega-3 as a dietary supplement. In a published study, we showed improved regulation of pain and joint swelling associated with back and neck pain. In addition, numerous studies have shown improved vascular and heart health benefits. Additionally, adequate amounts
transmission and increased brain cell production.
Taking an omega-3 dietary supplement or consuming adequate amounts of seafood must be obtained daily for optimal health and wellness. But the fact is, the great majority of Americans are deficient in omega-3 due to our typical Western diet. In fact, Americans on average only eat about 20 pounds of fish or
Concordia Lutheran Ministries
Comparing our 20 pounds/annually of seafood consumption and disease reduction to that of other counties around the world, the results are frightening. The fact is studies show that in those countries, like Japan, those that eat the most seafood (200 pounds/year or 10 time more than Americans) also have the lowest cardiovascular disease risk. Americans are missing out on a relatively easy way to reduce our risk for many chronic diseases and early death, by just changing their diet.
Based on this research and many other recent dietary studies, I now believe that eating fish and seafood may be as important or perhaps even more important than taking concentrated dietary supplements. The making and manufacturing of typical omega-3 supplements removes the protein and the many of the nutrients found in seafood that have tremendous health benefits.
Joseph C. Maroon, MD is a Board-Certified Neurosurgeon, Nutritional and Sports Medicine Expert. Dr. Maroon has written and lectured extensively on brain health and healthy life choices. As a competitive Ironman triathlete, Dr. Maroon practices what he preaches and is committed to the promoting healthy choices to his patients and readers. Whatever senior care/living services you need in Westmoreland County, Concordia has you covered. Compare Concordia at Bethlen, Concordia at Weatherwood and Concordia Home Health and Hospice of Bethlen to see what makes us the best of the best. Learn more about how we can help at www.ConcordiaLM.org.
I personally love seafood and eat fish several days a week. But since it is unlikely, based on a variety of factors, that Americans will start eating 100 pounds or more of seafood annually, I still recommend a daily fish oil supplement to obtain its many omega-3 benefits. n
PopSole® offers comfort for those with Achy Feet
By Beth Gusenoff DPM and Jeffrey Gusenoff MD
PopSole® is the world’s only instantly customizable air-filled insole designed by a husband-and-wife team—a podiatric surgeon and a plastic surgeon—from the University of Pittsburgh. PopSole® fills the gap for an immediately customizable insole that has air bubbles that can be popped at the site of pain, and has a modifiable arch and metatarsal pad. Simply remove your current insole, trim to fit, pop if you want, and off you go walking on air! They are waterproof and can be used in the shower, in a slide, or clog.
PopSole® provides many benefits for the active aging individual. The average adult will walk almost 75,000 miles in a lifetime. As we age, the ball of the foot and heel fat pad wear down. Age can also lead to tightening of tendons and ligaments, worsening plantar fasciitis and tendonitis. PopSole® is clinically proven to improve pain, reduce pressure, and increase activities of daily living. PopSole® provides additional cushion and support to painful foot bones and aching joints while keeping you aligned and balanced. PopSole® encourages individuals to continue enjoying the activities they love, boosting both physical and mental well-being. n
• And so much more!
200 South Main Street, Greenburg aaa@co.westmoreland.pa.us 724-830-4444 1-800-442-8000 www.westmorelandcountypa.gov/aging
What is Missing from Most Retirement Advice?
by Kevin Bock, Integrity Retirement Solutions, LLC
After over 35 years in retirement and legacy planning, I’ve noticed some common threads that could devastate many retirement plans. Most people don’t know where to turn or what to expect as they get closer to retirement, and they may think that they have everything taken care of... Wrong!
Before we proceed, here are some thoughts on the two main professionals who many people think have everything taken care of for them.
If you’ve met with your lawyer and think you have everything taken care of, ask yourself: are they licensed to give financial/insurance advice? Most aren’t. Do they have a working knowledge of taxes and how to minimize or potentially avoid them? Is their main source of income from retirement and estate planning (not administration), or do they do other things and use wills and estates as just a sideline?
Saturday: 11:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon Sunday: 6:00 – 6:30 AM on WJAS 1320
Saturday and Sunday: 12:00 noon – 1:00 p.m. on WJFA 910AM, WJFG 1480 AM, 98.7 FM, and 107.5 FM
If you’ve been working with an investment advisor, have they coordinated a plan that covers income planning, asset planning, tax planning, health care planning, legacy planning, and legal planning? I believe these are the six most important parts of proper retirement and estate planning.
Now: Do you still think everything is taken care of?
As we mature, and become retirees, things change. Our needs change; Our wants and desires change; Our goals change… and our retirement and estate plans need to change to meet these new needs, wants, desires, goals, and concerns!
As we age, we may need others to help us. We may eventually need help with daily living activities, like eating, bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring, and maintaining continence. Some other considerations may be the need for mental support or companionship, transportation, meal preparation, managing household needs (cleaning, laundry, trash, yard maintenance, etc.), help with medication, finances, and more!
Does your lawyer or advisor have a depth of knowledge in these areas? And can they direct you to real quality resources that can help with in home care, personal care homes, or assisted living placement when staying at home is no longer an option?
So do you really have everything taken care of?
Good retirement and estate plans should cover most, if not all, of the above areas. You should have a good way to access these resources when needed.
Another area that may be important is protecting your assets from creditors, family members, catastrophic medical expenses, and taxes. For example, did you know that probate and inheritance taxes are optional and can often be reduced or eliminated with proper planning?
So far, is everything taken care of?
Have you ever known someone who was left with a mess when their loved one passed? Their estate may have been substantially reduced by fees and taxes, and the confusion may have taken years to clear up because the family con-
tested a will. The family split up because of arguments, many times because things aren’t spelled out in detail in the last wishes. Most parents don’t want strife after they pass but fighting and arguing is not a rarity! Simple planning gets simple results. Effective planning gets effective results.
Did you know that when someone dies, their estate can become public knowledge at the courthouse? In my experience, I have seen salespeople go to the courthouse to find out who got what, get their personal information, and call them to sell them windows, siding, doors, or whatever else. If you have a will, it will most likely direct your estate into probate, be delayed, and become public knowledge.
Did you know that, with proper planning and beneficiary designations, you could keep your estate private? With proper planning, It can be distributed in a few weeks or months instead of one to two years or more!
So, how do you find a professional who can handle most or all of your future needs? It can be difficult. People want more of their needs handled under one roof or with one professional who is knowledgeable about what is available. In the categories I mentioned above.
When you are searching for a professional to help you with your retirement journey, ask them how much experience they have with income planning and guaranteed income you cannot outlive, asset planning, tax reduction planning, healthcare planning, legacy planning, and legal planning. Find a professional with a depth of knowledge in as many of these areas as possible. They don’t have to be CPA or an attorney, and you may need to include these qualified advisors in your plan. If your main advisor has a working knowledge in all of the above areas, you can potentially reduce holes, gaps, and problems that can derail your wants, needs, goals, and desires in retirement.
In nearly 35 years, we rarely have had someone come into our office who truly had everything taken care of. There is no perfect plan, but there are effective plans that can reduce surprises in the future! n
CONFUSED ABOUT MEDICARE?
Medicare is confusing – call for a one-to-one, no charge consultation with a Medicare expert!
Remove the FEAR, UNCERTAINTY, AND COSTLY MISTAKES from the Medicare enrollment process.
Medicare Open Enrollment Begins in October: What Can You Expect?
By Crystal Manning and Dvonya Sedlacko-Stephens
Each year, the Social Security Administration determines what the costs associated with the Medicare program will be. It then either raises or lowers premiums and deductibles using rules set out in the Social Security Act. Medicare rules from the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) will also start to kick in, changing the way you pay for medications in 2025.
The full array of plan details is typically released throughout the fall prior to the open enrollment period which begins on October 15. However, below are some changes you can expect to see for 2025.
When will we learn about changes to Medicare Part A?
Dvonya
Sedlacko-Stephens
Medicare Advisors
Call Crystal: 412-716-4942 or Dvonya: 412-657-3889 email : crystalmanning33@gmail.com Crystal A. Manning
Part A helps pay for inpatient care you receive in hospitals, critical access hospitals and skilled nursing facilities. Almost 99% of Medicare beneficiaries get Part A for free because they paid Medicare taxes while working, according to CMS. Last year, CMS announced the 2024 changes to Part A on Oct. 12, 2023.
When will we learn about changes to Medicare Part B?
Part B covers medical services like doctors’ services and outpatient care. Part B is optional, and for 2024, Part B’s premium is
$174.70 per month. The CMS announces annual adjustments to Part B in the fall, so we’ll have to wait a bit before we can get the full details for 2025. Medicare will determine the 2025 IRMAA (income-related monthly adjustment amount) charge in the 4th quarter of 2024. That is why your IRMAA determination is based on 2023 filing status and income — it’s the last data point Medicare can obtain from the IRS to determine the 2025 IRMAA charge.
Medicare Part C
Medicare Advantage, or Medicare Part C, will also be receiving some updates. Part C plans come from private companies and can offer extra coverage, such as vision, hearing, dental and health and wellness programs. It is important, especially this year to review your plan options.
Pricing for this alternative varies by
the plan you choose. An upcoming change to Part C will remind enrollees what they could be potentially leaving on the table. For Medicare Advantage participants, starting in 2025, a mid-year notification will inform you of any unused benefits that are available that you can take advantage of.
Medicare Part D Changes for 2025
Part D can help cover costs of prescription drugs. The IRA brings several changes to Part D plans.
Base premium increase expected
According to CMS, the Part D base beneficiary premium will increase by $2.08, or 6%, from $34.70 to $36.78. The IRA adds in a 6% cap to the base Part D plans, but actual premiums may vary. CMS said it will release preliminary Part D premium averages later this summer.
New $2000 out-of-pocket maximums for medications
A big 2025 change for Plan D enrollees will be the $2,000 outof-pocket maximum per year for medications. This change could have some major benefits for enrollees that have expensive medications they need to take monthly.
Note that medications covered under Medicare Part B will not count toward this maximum, as these are typically provided by a doctor or practitioner at a facility.
The Coverage Gap (donut hole) is gone in 2025
In 2024, there were four stages of coverage. Deductible, Initial, Coverage Gap (known as the donut hole) and Catastrophic. The
Connecting People to Life
Coverage Gap is a temporary limit on what the drug plan will cover for drug costs. In 2025, Medicare will eliminate the donut hole coverage gap, further simplifying coverages. Now, with the new out-of-pocket max of $2,000, Plan D participants will need to pay their deductible (up to $590), then make copayments until they reach the new maximum, getting them to the next level of coverage faster than previous years.
New Medication payment plan options
A new payment plan option will enable people to pay for their medications over the course of the year in the form of a payment plan instead of up front. The new plan allows someone to opt-in to this payment plan and spread the payments out for the remainder of the months in the year, and payments may not exceed a certain amount. The payment plan is opt-in only.
This open enrollment can be confusing. For more guidance as you make these decisions, please contact Crystal Manning, Licensed Medicare Specialist 412-716-4942 crystalmanning33@gmail.com or Dvonya Sedlacko 412-657-3889 djsedlacko@gmail.com for a no cost consultation. n
GROUNDED IN FAITH
Caregiver Tips for the Holidays
By Doreen C. Putnam, Certified Dementia Practitioner
Holidays are when family and close friends gather together to make memories, enjoy delicious meals, hug those you haven’t seen in way-to-long and give thanks for all of those special moments in time. Oh… and don’t forget the presents!!
We want to make the experiences memorable if we are celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas or New Year’s., etc. But just as you prepare by sprucing up your home, preparing special foods or buying presents, you also have to prepare if you have a loved one with some form of dementia.
The specific form of dementia can vary from Alzheimer’s Disease to Parkinson’s to Lewy Body Dementia to Frontotemporal Degeneration to early memory loss issues. But specific plans should be in place so not only the patient can enjoy the celebration, but the adults and children in the family can as well.
Here are a few things for you to think about as you prepare for any of your holiday gatherings. Remember each dementia person’s needs are different and adjustments should be made to accommodate those needs.
• If you are celebrating in a home setting, make sure you are NOT taking the PWD (Person with Dementia ) to the home where he last lived or even where he grew up. You may have great difficulty when it’s time to leave.
• Make sure you prepare your guests for what they might see and hear during the celebration. A group text or email would be great.
• Excited children, active dogs, football games on TV and loud noises/conversations can be very difficult for a PWD to tolerate. Make sure she has some quiet, down time away from the larger group to relax and maybe take a nap.
• Consider decreasing the size of your guest list for dinner. If Dad leaves right after dinner, the other “regular” guests might come for dessert or turkey sandwiches.
• Another alternative, have Dad come just for hors d’oeuvres or dessert before you take him back to his residential community. He will probably have had his holiday meal at noon.
• If Dad is living in a memory care community and it would be difficult for him to leave, perhaps you have dinner with him at noon and plan your family meal for later in the day.
• If Mom is joining you, you might prepare a plate for her rather than
having her go through a buffet line where so much food could be overwhelming for her. If so, please do not cut her food for her while her plate is in front of her… she’s not a child. Do that task prior to bringing her plate to the table. Also, don’t’ overload her plate.
• Where a PWD sits is important. Seating Grandpa at the end of the table means he can see everyone in the group and that can be overwhelming. Also placing him in the middle of a long table means he is being bombarded with conversations all around him. That is distracting and can be very upsetting for him, consequently he may not eat at all. Have him sit at the side of the table next to the end seat. His field of vision will be smaller, and it will be easier for him to concentrate on conversations.
• Make sure you have Grandma’s favorite food for her, even if no one else in the group is eating that particular dish. She might truly enjoy just having dessert, her favorite cinnamon oatmeal or a “Fluffer-Nutter” sandwich!
• When it’s time for the PWD to leave, don’t make her stay longer because it would be inconvenient for someone to leave the party and return her to her residential community. Plan for that in advance with someone agreeing to take Grandma to her residential home when she is ready to go.
• Having old photographs in an album or on an iPad can be a good activity for the PWD to sit with grandchildren and talk about the good ol’days. Grandma may not recognize more current photos if her memory loss is a symptom of her dementia.
Every dementia person’s physical and cognitive situations are different… because each person is unique. Just like all of us. If you know your loved one well and take time to think through what will be best for him/her, then the celebrations can be fun, exciting and memorable. Don’t wait till the last minute to take the necessary steps so everyone attending can enjoy the festivities.
Please feel free to contact me if I can be of further assistance to your family. n
Doreen C. Putnam
Certified Dementia Practitioner
CDP®, CADDCT®, CMDCP®, CIPG DCPutnam Consulting, Murrysville, PA doreen@dcputnamconsulting.com
Affordable, Memory-Making Gifts for Your Grandchildren
By Janice Lane Palko
Do you remember the Christmas or Hanukkah gifts you received as a child? Aside from a few outstanding gifts, none stand out in my mind. However, some of the best recollections I do have of the holidays are of when adults played with me, be it a parent, grandparent, uncle or aunt. I remember my Uncle Bill on the floor helping us to build with our Lincoln Logs, or playing 500 Rum with my greatgrandmother, or building puzzles with my paternal grandmother.
For many, the economy is putting a strain on our finances and may constrain our gift-giving budget this year, but here are some affordable gifts that can bring joy to your littlest loved ones and make happy memories as well. Here are some ideas:
Draw With Me Books – This is a series of books from Draw With Me Grandma, Draw With Me Grandpa, Draw With Me Mom, Draw With Me Dad that is a two-person doodle book with prompts. For less than $10 you and your beloved child take turns drawing. For instance, one prompt is for the child to “Draw a happy puppy.” Then on the next page the adult prompt is to “Draw a luxury doghouse for the puppy.” It sparks creativity and laughter.
Shrinky Dinks – This is a great toy for adults and children as an oven and scissors must be used. You draw on sheets of plastic, and then cut out your design. Then you put it on a cookie sheet and shrink it in the oven. Most kits are under $10 and there are a wide variety of subjects from suncatchers to jewelry.
Weaving Loom – A simple weaving loom and craft loops can bring hours of fun. The weaving process helps children with hand-eye coordination and develops a sense of design, and grandma can end up with potholder lovingly made by a grandchild.
Paper Airplanes – My grandchildren love it when my husband makes paper airplanes for them. There are inexpensive books that take your aeronautical abilities to the next level by giving you directions to fold planes that go beyond the simplest ones.
Card Games – For under $15 you can get on Amazon a set of six all-time favorite, classic card games that include Crazy Eights, Old Maids, Go Fish, Memory Match, Slap Jack and Regular Playing Cards. These games develop memory skills, math skills, and strategy.
Etch a Sketch – This toy has been around for six decades and is still a favorite of kids. It develops spatial thinking, and if you want, an adult can work one wheel and the child another to see what design results.
Building Blocks – Whether it is with classic wooden blocks, Lincoln Logs, or the newer magnetic tiles, kids love to build things. In fact, one of the nicest memories I have of vacation with my grandchildren was with these magnetic tiles. Several years ago, they had brought them to the beach, and after they went to bed, I built an igloo for them. Well, that started something, and every morning they couldn’t wait to wake up and see what I made for them—which they promptly wrecked!
However, it must have made an impression on them because when we went to the beach the next year, they brough the magnetic tiles again and asked me what I was going to build. Let me tell you, Grandma had to step up her game. I was Googling how to make crabs, star fishes, and sharks out of them. But they loved it – and of course took great pleasure in wrecking my creations-much to my feigned horror.
These are just some ideas. If none appeal to you, get in touch with your childhood memories and remember what you liked to play with, especially those things that adults played with you, I’m sure you’ll discover like the Grinch, “Maybe Christmas doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas, perhaps...means a little bit more!” n
THE GOOD OLD DAYS
Step Back Into...2004
A social media platform is launched A former U.S. President is laid to rest
By Paula Green
Mark Zuckerberg launches the social media network Facebook. Martha Stewart is convicted of a felony and sentenced to five months in prison for insider trading charges. The Statue of Liberty reopens to the public in New York City. Hurricane Ivan strikes the tiny island of Grenada causing damage to 90% of the island’s homes. After ravaging Grenada, Jamaica and Cuba, Hurricane Ivan hits mainland U.S. with winds in excess of 130 MPH causing massive damage and loss of life.
Average
The average income was $65,760. The cost of a new home is $274,500. Average cost for a new car was 29,800. Gasoline is $2.10 a gallon. A loaf of bread is $2.09. A gallon of milk is $3.23, and potatoes cost $1.99 for a five-pound bag. Eggs sell for $1.49 a dozen. A one-pound package of hot dogs sells for $3.69. A first-class stamp is 37 cents.
Firsts
Google launched Gmail in beta form
though many people didn’t think it was a real product because they announced it on April Fools’ Day.
Motorola released its Razr phone.
Apple unveiled the iPod Photo and the iPod Mini.
Bratz and Robosapien robots were among the hottest toys.
U.S. Events
On June 11, former President Ronald Reagan’s funeral was held at the Washington National Cathedral.
The National World War II Memorial opens to the public in Washington D.C.
On February 1, Janet Jackson has a wardrobe malfunction while performing during Super Bowl XXXVIII.
Scott Peterson is found guilty for the murder of his wife Laci Peterson.
World News
On December 26, the strongest earthquake in 40 years originates from the Indian Ocean close to Indonesia, measuring 9.3 on the Richter Scale. Creating tsunami waves that sweep across much of the coastlines of Sri Lanka, India, Bangladesh, the Maldives, Burma, Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia.
Television
Friends aired its final episode and it is the mostwatched show of the entire 2000s. Desperate Housewives and Lost premiered on ABC. Ken Jennings wins over 2.5 million dollars on Jeopardy Popular TV shows: American Idol, Breaking Bad, Prison Break, Shameless, House, Dexter, Game of Thrones, and House of Cards.
Songs
Entertainment
The original Star Wars Trilogy was released on DVD. At the Oscars, Charlize Theron won Best Actress for Monster ; Sean Penn won Best Actor for Mystic River ; The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King won Best Picture. Famous films: The Aviator, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, The Incredibles, Million Dollar Baby, The Notebook, The Passion of the Christ, Polar Express, Shark Tale, Shrek 2, and SpiderMan 2
The hit listConfessions, Feels Like Home, Encore, When the Sun Goes Down, Here for the Party, Live Like You Were Dying, Songs About Jane, Fallen, Autobiography, and Now That’s What I Call Music.
Publishing
Popular Books: Gilead: A Novel, The Plot Against America, Alexander Hamilton, The 9/11 Commission Report: Final Report of the National Commission on Terrorist Attacks Upon the United States, The Rule of Four, Father Joe: The Man Who Saved My Soul, Against All Enemies: Inside America’s War on Terror, Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell: A Novel, I Am Charlotte Simmons, and Crossing California.
Sports
MLB – Super Bowl champs the New England Patriots; NHL - Tampa Bay Lightning win The Stanley Cup; NBA - Detroit Pistons are victorious; MLBBoston Red Sox win the World Series. The Summer Olympics take place in Athens, Greece (August 13-29). U.S. swimmer Michael Phelps sets the record for most medals won at the games, winning eight.
Politics
President: George W. Bush: Vice President: Richard Cheney. In November, President George W. Bush defeated Massachusetts Democratic Senator John Kerry to win a second term in office as commander-in-chief.
Quotes
“She made me who I am and holding her in my arms was more natural to me than my own heartbeat.”
~Noah (Ryan Gosling), The Notebook
“Never give into pessimism. Don’t know that you can’t fly, and you will soar like an eagle.”
~Earl Bakken, Commencement Speech, University of Hawaii
“You can’t put a limit on anything. The more you dream, the farther you get.”
Parkinsons Support Group Monthly: First Wednesday of every month 5:30-6:30 PM. Upcoming Nov 6 and Dec 4. Meetings are held at FYZICAL Monroeville, 2526 Monroeville Boulevard, Suite 3. Please call 412-457-8200 for information.
Diabetes Management November 25, 1:00 pm at the New Kensington Center for Active Adults, 1039 3rd Ave, New Kensington, PA 15068 Presented by Barbara Ponterio, Community Health Educator, AmeriHealth Caritas. Contact Barbara at bponterio@amerihealthcaritaspa.com
Heart Health December 10, 10:00 am at the Irwin Senior Activity Center, 310 Oak St, Irwin, Pa 15642. Presented by Barbara Ponterio, Community Health Educator, AmeriHealth Caritas. Contact Barbara at bponterio@amerihealthcaritaspa.com for more information.
Alzheimer’s / Dementia Support Group Monthly: Meets third Tuesday of every month from 5:30 - 7:00 pm. Upcoming: Nov 19 and Dec 17. This is a support group for any caregiver who has a family or friend with some form of dementia. Meetings held at Mountain View Memory Care 711 US Rt. 119 in Greensburg by Doreen Putnam.
Alzheimer’s / Dementia Support Group: Embrace Program Caregivers, Family and Friends, Discuss the challenges you face, meet others with similar experiences, and find solutions that can improve the quality of life for your loved one. Monthly: Third Tuesday of every month from 6PM – 8PM. Upcoming Nov 19 and Dec 17 at Brookdale Senior Living, 500 Brouwers Drive, Latrobe. RSVP to 724-537-5255.
FTD (Frontotemporal Degeneration) Support Group for caregivers. VIRTUAL Monthly: Meets the third Thursday of each month. Upcoming: November 21 and December 19 from 6:30 - 8:00 pm. Caregivers please contact doreen@dcputnamconsulting.com for information.
Westmoreland County Centers for Active Adults
Westmoreland County has 13 centers for active adults (CAA) that provide the connections necessary to assist local seniors. Each CAA offers a variety of activities: exercise classes, crafts, games, and of course, bingo. Computers are available for use, some centers offer technology classes. Speakers are scheduled to provide information on nutrition, tax assistance, Medicare, and various hobbies. A balanced lunch is served daily for a suggested donation of $2 (age 60+), or $3.95 (age 59 and younger) If you plan to have lunch, please notify the center by Wed. of the previous week. CAA’s are open Mon. through Fri. 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM. To find a senior center/CAA near you, please visit https://www.westmorelandcountypa.gov/
Mobile Wellness Center from AmeriHealth Caritas will be at Connect 55+ Penn Township, 4000 Village Drive, Jeannette on November 20, from 5:00 PM –6:30 PM. Stop by to pick up information and take a tour. The Mobile Wellness Center is a community hub offering programs that address education, safety, transportation, nutrition, and preventive health services. Presented by Barbara Ponterio, Community Health Educator, AmeriHealth Caritas. Contact Barbara at bponterio@amerihealthcaritaspa.com for more information.
At Newhaven Court at Lindwood, we provide more than just a place to live; we offer a community designed to make life easier, safer, and more comfortable. Here’s what sets us apart:
Fast Call Bell Response Time: Your needs are our priority, and help is always just a moment away.
Quick & Simple Admission Process: Moving in has never been easier—get settled in your new home fast.
Skilled Caregivers on Every Shift: Around the clock care from trained caregivers available 24/7 to ensure you’re always in the best hands.
Great Staff-to-Resident Ratio: We pride ourselves on having a high number of staff members to provide the attention and care you deserve.
Leading the way in diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s.
For the first time in 20 years, new medications are available, not just to manage symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, but to address the underlying cause. Independence Health System is leading the way in diagnosis and treatment and offering renewed hope to patients experiencing cognitive impairment, as the first in the region to provide these new therapies.
Mary Elizabeth Kovacik Eicher, MD, MPH, Director of Neurosciences for the health system, is overseeing the rollout of a robust program that rapidly moves patients from clinical assessment to infusion if appropriate when Alzheimer’s disease is detected. Dr. Eicher, with offices in Butler and Greensburg, has her undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame and is a graduate of Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, PA. She did her fellowship in Neuromuscular Medicine at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey and specializes in Dementia and Cognitive Disorders including Alzheimer’s Disease, Vascular Dementia, and Frontotemporal Dementia.
Nikita Urval, MD, a colleague of Dr. Eicher’s with offices in the Butler area, has her undergraduate degree from Duke University and is a graduate of WVU School of Medicine. She completed her residency and Movement Disorder Fellowship at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Downtown. Dr. Urval is a Movement Disorder Specialist which includes Parkinson’s Disease, Essential Tremors, and Dystonia.
For more information, visit www.Independence.Health/alz
