Pittsburgh 55+ Magazine - Winter 2017/2018 issue by Northern Connection Magazine

FREE

Winter 2018

Take Charge of Your Life

with the Experts at Your Own Retirement

Sue and Dave Hickey of Your Own Retirement

Also in this Issue... n Online Safety for Seniors n Step Back Into 1987 n Winter Happenings

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2018

PUBLISHER’S NOTES

Welcome to the Winter Issue of Pittsburgh Fifty-Five Plus Magazine!

s the New Year begins, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your support and kind words about Pittsburgh Fifty-Five Plus Magazine. We enjoy hearing from our readers, and welcome suggestions for story ideas and interesting people all over the area that make a positive difference in the community. Together we continue to make our community an outstanding place to live! All of us at Pittsburgh Fifty-Five Plus Magazine wish all our readers and advertisers a wonderful and Blessed Holiday Season and a New Year full of Peace, Love, Good Health, and Laughter! n

“Tomorrow is the first blank page of a 365-page book. Write a good one.”

P.O. Box 722 Wexford, PA 15090-0722

Phone: 724-940-2444 Fax: 724-940-2447 Email: info@PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com President & Publisher Marion Swanson Piotrowski Executive Editor Janice Lane Palko Managing Editor/Public Relations Coordinator Paula M. Green Marketing & Account Executive and Office Coordinator Laura Arnold Marketing & Account Executive Mary L. Simpson Design & Production Kostilnik & Assoc. Graphics, Inc.

Laura Arnold

Mary Simpson

llpspc@consolidated.net

mlsspc@consolidated.net

Brad Paisley

Janice Lane Palko

Paula Green

info@PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

Pittsburgh Fifty Five Plus Magazine is published four times a year by Swanson Publishing Co., Inc. (P.O. Box 722, Wexford, PA 15090-0722, 724-940-2444) and is distributed free of charge throughout the Greater Pittsburgh region. Subscription can be purchased from the publisher at $25 for one year. The mission of the Swanson Publishing Co., Inc. is to connect the people of Pittsburgh by publishing the area’s finest senior publication, Pittsburgh Fifty Five Plus Magazine. The publication is dedicated to the people, communities, educational, religious, travel, health, and recreational needs of seniors in our area.

Find us on under Pittsburgh Fifty-Five Plus Magazine!

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The contents of Pittsburgh Fifty Five Plus Magazine may not be reproduced or copied in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. Pittsburgh Fifty Five Plus Magazine reserves the right to refuse editorial or advertisements that do not meet the standards of this publication.

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2018

Contents 8

Peripheral Neuropathy Sufferers Have HOPE Dr. Shawn Richey, DC

Cover Story: Your Own Retirement: Take Charge of Your Life Janice Lane Palko

10 55+ Profile: Tom Pollard Janice Lane Palko 12 Medical Marijuana is Coming to Pennsylvania – What Does That Mean for You? Dr. Joseph Maroon 14 Hearing Impacts Health Outcomes UPMC Aging Institute 16 What Do Baby Boomers Want in Their New Home? Deb Walton

17 Study on Night Shift and Sleep Problems Stephen F. Smagula, PhD 18 Preparing for Obstacles That Arise Later in Life Brian J. Catale 19 Online Safety for Seniors Janice Lane Palko 19 Staying Safe At Home 21 Aging Gracefully Mike Doerfler 22 Planning for the Future with Medicare Options Crystal A. Manning 23 Dignity Home Care Professionals

In Every Issue... 2

From the Publisher Marion Piotrowski

Pondering Pittsburgh: Reminiscing Through the Mall Paula Green

24 The Good Old Days: Step Back into 1987 Paula Green 26 Winter ’18 Happenings 28 Remember When: Winter is Here! Joe Bullick

Winter 2018 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

Peripheral Neuropathy Sufferers Have

HOPE Don’t GIVE UP!

Dr. Shawn Richey

“I tried all kinds of treatments and nothing worked for me until I met Dr. Shawn! So far I am 75 percent cured. It feels so good to walk again without pain!” Pat, Ross Township

“I saw so many doctors and had so many tests. But then I found Dr. Shawn! I am completely blown out of the water that this is working.” Sheila, Latrobe

“It hasn’t even been a month and I’ve come a long way! I struggled with peripheral neuropathy for ten years.” George, Beaver Co.

“I am 80 percent cured! I can’t wait to go hunting & fishing again!!” Bob, New Castle

Once thought to be incurable, peripheral neuropathy occurs when nerves are damaged or destroyed and can’t send messages to the muscles, skin and other parts of the body. Peripheral nerves go from the brain and spinal cord to the arms, hands, legs and feet. When damage to the nerves takes place, numbness and pain in these areas may occur. A specialized treatment protocol is available at the Chiropractic Family Health Center. It includes nine specific treatments that are designed to heal rather than just deal with the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Our program utilizes state-of-the-art technology with combined therapies to restore life to the dead nerves. Dr. Richey has seen thousands of patients suffering with peripheral neuropathy. Since 2013, his program has had a 90 percent satisfaction rate addressing the pain associated with peripheral neuropathy using a successful, non-invasive, PAINLESS, drug-free approach that includes the use of light therapy to stimulate tissue repair. Dr. Richey has expanded his practice to include Westmoreland as well as Allegheny Counties. Chiropractic Family Health Center now has offices in both Sewickley at 2591 Wexford-Bayne Road, Suite 207 and Latrobe at 1901 Ligonier Street. For a FREE Consultation contact Dr. Shawn Richey at (724) 940-9000 and your appointment will be made at the location that is most convenient for you. To learn more, visit www.backnline.com.

For a FREE Consultation, contact Dr. Shawn Richey at (724) 940-9000 and your appointment will be made at the location that is most convenient for you. To learn more, visit www.backnline.com.

“I love this treatment because I noticed a real improvement. I would absolutely recommend this.” Ed, Ross Township

“Before I found Dr. Shawn, I suffered from peripheral neuropathy for 17 years. Now I’m HEALED!”

Paul, Pittsburgh

“I’ve been suffering with painful neuropathy and nothing seemed to help before Dr. Shawn. I am so pleased that I can finally walk again! Otto, Johnstown, Pa.

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2018

COVER STORY

Your Own Retirement: Take Charge of Your Life By Janice Lane Palko

“Heading into retirement is a far different pathway than typical financial planning we have all come to know,” said Susan Hickey, RICP® financial professional at Your Own Retirement. She and business partner David Hickey, CPCU® managing director, know because they have witnessed the challenges now faced by baby boomers firsthand.

“W

e were in the business ourselves, and no one was talking about anything other than investment returns. It became very apparent there was a huge need for a laser focus practice specifically for those people not uber-wealthy,” Dave stated rather emphatically. “Investment decisions should be based on client goals and needs only, not what the herd or advisors believe to be most in vogue,” added Susan. “And the other four areas of retirement planning need to be addressed first.” Arriving at this point in their professional lives has been a work-in-progress that both Sue and Dave will readily admit. When Sue was 18, she was on her own working full-time to put herself through college. She worked in the insurance industry and then became a flight attendant, fulfilling a childhood dream. Dave and Sue married in 1986

and started a family two years later. After she had three of their five children, Sue surrendered her successful career to raise her family. “I chose to be home, which took some planning along with purposeful choices,” Sue related. It was the beginning of balance between work, money, and time she now illustrates for clients daily. In 1994, Dave was holding down a cushy six-figure job in downtown Pittsburgh but knew he couldn’t, in good conscience, continue to promote certain initiatives and ultimately left his job. “I started from scratch in the basement of a borrowed house,” he said. Dave credits his mentors, role models, and friends for the inspiration needed to take on a new career path. “In retrospect, we had three young children and little money in the bank. But we came from being poor so we figured we could do that all day long. In the end

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it was a price we were willing to pay to pursue a dream,” Dave said. In particular, he credits former Pirate, Sid Bream and Penguins legend Mario Lemieux. “I was so fortunate over those next many years to coach baseball with Sid and hockey with Mario. Both are true gentlemen and ethical to a fault, if that is even possible,” said Dave. “They gave me a whole different look at the world. Not just the celebrity and hero status they had, but the way they conducted themselves in the face of immense pressure to succeed athletically and professionally. Frankly, it made my situation look small in comparison and highly manageable,” he added. “We are still inspired to do the right thing, which is always the best reward,” added Sue. While they both knew they were taking a risk in leaving lucrative careers, they also knew that they wanted more from their lives than merely

collecting a paycheck. They wanted to do the right thing for themselves and for others and that meant taking their experiences and using them to help others. Sue recognized that there were many couples and individuals like them who would be facing retirement planning alone and largely without a pension for economic support. So, she attained her life and health insurance license, and then went on to achieve the Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP ®) designation, which focuses on retirement income planning specifically. Dave’s risky career change proved to be a fruitful one as well. “Twenty-seven years later, Your Own Retirement has trained 22 other financial professionals across the country in our unique technique, as well as establishing our primary practice here in Cranberry,” Dave said. “We are fortunate to represent folks from all over the country, and our main focus is informing our neighbors to the need for a retirement professional now. I am very concerned about what will happen when the market corrects or worse,” David said. For the past 10 years, Your Own Retirement has narrowed its focus to these primary areas of retirement planning: income, health care, tax and legacy. “Traditional financial planning only addresses investment—accumulating wealth for retirement. We decided we wanted to concentrate on what happens before and after you retire—how to make your money last and create the kind of life you want in retirement,” Dave and Sue said. You can have a large nest egg, but if you don’t have a plan to make it last, even the largest of nest eggs can be depleted. To ensure that never happens, Sue and Dave craft a written retirement plan that takes into consideration income, investments, social security, your home and other assets, Medicare, life insurance, and health care. “If you have a written plan in place, you can prepare for every eventuality. When the market drops or if there is a change in lifestyle, you will be ready,” they both said. Dave and Sue do not want to see their clients having to return to work after retiring for lack of a sustainable plan. “I have seen enough statistics to know that half of people do not have enough saved and another 2008 crisis could force a significant number of retirees back into the workplace,” Dave lamented. It can be overwhelming to think about mapping out decades in retirement, but Sue and Dave have created a process to help reduce the stress of retirement with their “Retirement

Pathway 360.” The first step is simple— it’s meeting with Sue and Dave. “Our goal is to get to know you and your financial state,” said Dave. “This initial visit is where we get to know what it is you want and dream about for your individual retirement. At the second meeting, we identify the problems and gaps that need addressed. We then discuss ways to best work toward your retirement goals and make decisions on how to help you achieve them,” Sue said. But Sue and Dave’s guidance doesn’t end there. “A retirement plan is flex-

“We emphasize a ‘Lifestyle Plan’ for retirement, one that addresses all aspects such as health care costs and long-term care.” Sue Hickey ible and ongoing,” said Dave. “We meet twice yearly, at least, to make any necessary adjustments. We walk beside you the whole way into and through retirement—all the way.” Many of their clients are couples, but recently Your Own Retirement has identified a need for women to better prepare for their futures. “Women present a unique set of circumstances when it comes to their retirement years. Longevity is a major factor. Many women live three decades in retirement and are surviving into their nineties. Women may outlive their spouse, which has the potential to impact their income significantly. You must plan for the potential loss of Social Security benefits or pensions,” said Sue. Another factor is that many women leave retirement planning to their husband. “Women need to be aware of their financial situation and consider what could happen if their spouse dies. They need to know where all the important papers are kept, what their investments are, etc. They also need to think about important questions such as: Who will take care of me? Will I be able to afford to stay in my house? What if I get sick and need to move? Questions that we as woman don’t look at as we are too busy taking care of everyone else,” said Sue. “We emphasize a ‘Lifestyle Plan’ for retirement,” said Sue, “one that addresses all aspects such as health care costs and long-term care. It may

seem overwhelming, but even making small changes now in your retirement plan and health habits may increase the chance for you to be able to live the way you want and deserve in retirement.” In addition to their highly popular retirement seminars, Your Own Retirement will soon be counseling small businesses whose employees are approaching retirement. Dave’s highly anticipated first book Don’t Be Stupid: Lessons Learned From My Father will be released in 2018. Your Own Retirement’s office is located in Cranberry Twp. but offers services to people in Western Pennsylvania and in many states all over the U.S. “Eighty percent of our clients are located here in Western Pennsylvania, but we have many around the country,” said David. n David Hickey offers investment advisory services through AE Wealth Management, LLC (AEWM). AEWM and Your Own Retirement are not affiliated companies. We are an independent firm helping individuals create retirement strategies using a variety of insurance and investment products to custom suit their needs and objectives. This material is intended to provide general information to help you understand basic financial planning strategies and should not be construed as financial advice. The information contained in this material is believed to be reliable, but accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed; it is not intended to be used as the sole basis for financial decisions. If you are unable to access any of the news articles and sources through the links provided in this text, please contact us to request a copy of the desired reference.

To learn more about Your Own Retirement’s Pathway 360 written plan for retirement or to attend an upcoming seminar, visit their website at: www. yourownretirment.com or give Sue or Dave a call at: 1-866-677-PLAN (7526).

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2018

PONDERING PITTSBURGH

Reminiscing Through the Mall How The Northway Mall Transformed Into The Block Northway By Paula Green The Northway Mall has been a staple in the North Hills community for the past 64 years. Located on McKnight Road in Ross Township, its history dates back to 1953 when it opened as a strip mall called Northway Shopping Center, which included an A&P grocery store. Nine years later, the complex underwent a major expansion renovation and reopened as the first indoor mall in Western Pennsylvania.

n Aug. 1, 1962, when The Northway Mall opened its doors, it ushered in some unique features. The upper floor atrium housed a large bird cage that was a popular attraction. Northway also showcased a glass elevator, which at the time was only the third such one in the country.

Winter 2018 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

It was a one-stop shop; on the lower level patrons could purchase groceries at A&P. Folks could also shop at the mall’s major anchor stores such as Joseph Horne’s, G.C. Murphy, Woolworth and National Record Mart. There were also a few eateries as well, like Isaly’s Restaurant and Mamma Lucia’s Pizza. If your shoes needed a fix, there was Northway Shoe Repair. The mall was booming from 1962 thru 1986. In 1986, the new Ross Park Mall opened on McKnight Road and Northway began to lose some of its appeal. Some stores departed, and Northway welcomed in a few new tenants such as Borders, Dahlkemper’s, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Old Navy, Party City, Value City and a discount movie theatre. A food court was added in 1990. The mall was renovated in 1995. It was retooled again in 2000 when it was converted into a strip center called The Shoppes at Northway. In November 2012, LRC Realty purchased The Shoppes at Northway along with the vacant next-door property Northway Elementary School. The school building was demolished, re-zoned and integrated into a plan to expand and redevelop the existing mall. The major expansion project was slated to last several years and would usher in plenty of new welcomed additions. This newly formed shopping facility would now be called, “The Block Northway.” In June 2015, Northway was pleased to announce, “We’ve got our mojo back!” Currently, The Block Northway contains Aldi, America’s Best, Bassett, The Container Store, Core Life Eatery, Cyclebar, DSW Shoes, Eighteen Eight, Jason’s Deli, J. Crew Mercantile, Kirkland’s, Marshall’s, Nordstrom Rack, PetSmart, Saks Off 5th, Piada Italian Street Food and Ulta Beauty. Coming soon are Blume Nail Bar and Wahlburgers. For more information on the latest news at The Block at Northway, visit http://theblocknorthway.com/. n

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2018

55+ PROFILE

Tom Pollard By Janice Lane Palko

“Some people are like beautiful flowers. They’re planted in a career and work at that job their whole life. Me? I’m more like a weed.” Tom Pollard laughed. “I thrived through persistence!”

om Pollard, 70, of Brighton Heights is the owner of three businesses: Tom Pollard Designs, a custom brass ornament company; Positively Pittsburgh, a business specializing in Pittsburgh souvenirs and gifts; and PopularPittsburgh.com, a website devoted to everything Pittsburgh—from recipes to movie and restaurant reviews to profiles of Pittsburghers and entrepreneurs to sharing fun activities in and around Western Pennsylvania. “I don’t believe many people want to really stop working. I believe that after you do the same old, same old for years and years at some point, many people want to do something different. For many that means retirement. For me it means starting a new business venture,” Tom said. “I feel fortunate I’m able to do this. At this point, I’ll only get involved with a business I can start very small and try to grow. I have to be very careful with the businesses I pursue. Money doesn’t grow on trees.” Tom grew up in the Chicken Hill neighborhood of Pittsburgh and attended Langley High School. As a teen, he developed a love for photography. “My friend, Bill, had a grandfather who lived in Homestead. His grandfather had a darkroom and would invite Bill over to develop pictures every Saturday morning. Bill would only go if I came along. One day while making black and white prints, Bill’s grandfather looked at me and asked if I had seen Bill lately.” Bill had stopped going to the darkroom lessons a long time ago, but Tom had continued. He couldn’t get photography out of his system. Tom’s entrepreneurial bent was apparent even as a teen. “I cut grass, shoveled snow and sold newspapers on the street corner in the West End,” said Tom. After high school, he got a job at Max Azens, “doing anything they wanted me to do.” After two years, he was promoted to manager of the shipping department. “The company sent me to Pitt for specialized retail courses. I learned things there that I still use today.” One of Tom’s biggest regrets came in 1969 when he was drafted. “I really wanted to serve. Probably because my dad told me I should go to Canada. Maybe it was rebellion, but I went through all the physicals until someone noticed on the day we were scheduled to leave that I was walking with a limp. I’d broken my leg a couple of times as a kid, and they told me I couldn’t serve. You can’t march and limp. I was so

Winter 2018 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

embarrassed, I didn’t go back to Azens,” he said. He did some construction and then took on some side jobs painting until a job came open at Penn Camera on Smithfield Street. “I grabbed it. I didn’t even ask what they paid.” The job gave him access to the world of photography. From the retail store Tom and a friend opened a commercial photo studio, Triangle Studio, in the heart of the city. “We shot catalogs for Gimbles, annual reports for utility companies and public relations photos for everybody from Alcoa to Westinghouse,” Tom said. Then the 1980s came along with the demise of the steel industry and many others. “Gimbles went out of business. It seemed like many of our corporate clients were cutting their budgets. My partnership ended; our studio was gone.” Now 35 and married to wife, Carol, and the father of two girls, he found himself selling photo magnets and postcards to make ends meet. That was the beginning of Positively Pittsburgh. “Tom Pollard Designs started when I was making a delivery to a former retailer in Station Square, The Hello Shop. Susan, the store manager, told me that they wanted to find a supplier of Pittsburgh brass Christmas ornaments. I told her I could be that supplier. I knew nothing about the ornament business, but I learned quickly, and she had her ornaments as promised,” said Tom. Nine years ago, Tom launched his Pittsburgh information web site, PopularPittsburgh.com. “I don’t know how this venture survived,” Tom said. “There were just so many things I didn’t know, so many things I assumed would happen.” But he didn’t give up on the site because of something he recently learned. “I heard that if you want to be successful in just about anything, you have to put 10,000 hours in to developing your skills. I believe I’ve hit the 10,000-hour mark. Let’s see what happens from here,” said Tom. In the beginning, Google Analytics revealed that a paltry 20 people were reading the site daily. This year, 250,000 come to the site for information on Pittsburgh. Tom employs nine people either on salary on freelance basis for his three businesses. “I’m very fortunate to have these talented men and women working with me.” Even though Tom is in no hurry to retire, he

doesn’t anticipate launching any new ventures. “I’ve started my last business. But one thing I would like to do is get some public speaking engagements on topics ranging from: starting a business, entrepreneurial stories, the real Pittsburgh or on whether or not to retire.” When asked if he was a good speaker, Tom replied, “Not nearly as good as I want to be, but just wait until I have 10,000 hours behind me.” While Tom’s career path has been circuitous, Carol’s was like the beautiful flower. She retired several years ago after 42 years of working as a special education teacher. In addition to raising their two daughters, the Pollards are the proud grandparents of five. “I think we all want to do something we consider meaningful,” said Tom. “And I can’t think of anything else I’d rather be doing than what I’m doing. I consider this the eighth round, and I’m doing my best to go the distance.” n

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2018

55+ FEATURE

Medical Marijuana is Coming to Pennsylvania – What Does That Mean for You? By Joseph Maroon, MD

he legalization of medical marijuana in Pennsylvania has already made headlines across the state. Ever since the legislation was signed by on April 17, 2016, by Gov. Tom Wolf to enact Pennsylvania’s medical marijuana program into law, numerous policy and procedure committees have been moving forward to make the law a reality. Entrepreneurs are acquiring property to grow and outlets for sale. This new law — Act 16 —specifically protects registered patients and physicians from civil and criminal penalties for prescribing marijuana and its extracts. Federal law still classifies marijuana as an illegal drug, or Schedule I drug, but Pennsylvania and 22 other states that have similar medical marijuana laws, have moved forward regardless to permit its distribution and sale. The process of physician registration to prescribe medical marijuana is well underway, and since July of this year, an online registration and educational website has been in place. The law also requires a strictly regulated system for safe access to medical marijuana via local distribution centers located throughout the state.

There are also regulations of who can be prescribed medical marijuana. All patients must be registered with the state prior to any sale and may only be prescribed medical marijuana for certain conditions: • Terminal illness • Cancer • HIV/AIDS • ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) • Parkinson’s disease • Multiple sclerosis • Epilepsy and intractable seizures • Inflammatory bowel disease

• Neuropathies (Nerve Pain) • Huntington’s disease • Crohn’s disease • Post-traumatic stress disorder • Glaucoma • Autism • Sickle cell anemia related pain • Spinal cord with pain symptoms

The Possible Benefits of Medical Marijuana and its Extracts Numerous physical, psychological and emotional benefits are attributed to marijuana since its first reported use in approximately 2,600 BC in a Chinese pharmacopoeia. Both hemp and marijuana are subspecies of cannabis sativa plant and are grown and bred separately for their various properties. Hemp is used as a strong plant fiber for cloth and ropes, and its seeds are used for food and oil. Both hemp and marijuana each have various molecules that have human health benefits. These molecules are called phytocannabinoids. Cannabidiol (CBD) and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are considered two of the most important. CBD and Δ9-THC interact uniquely with the human nervous systems and organs and tissues associated with the immune system. One of the earliest medical benefits was found when treating uncontrolled epilepsy using marijuana extracts. There have since been neurological applications that have demonstrated numerous neuroprotective affects from excessive oxidative stress and inflammation associated with a variety of neurological diseases and conditions including brain cancer. The use of medical marijuana is not without controversy. Because of U.S. restrictions on its use for more than 90 years and only limited research, scientific reports on medical marijuana have been far fewer when compared to other medical treatments. This concerns many major medical groups and societies. In addition, it is well-known that marijuana and the psychoactive molecule THC can significantly alter thinking and judgment when use for abusive reasons. In summary, medical marijuana is coming to Pennsylvania soon. Like any new medical treatment or therapy, your health care provider will be your best source of information to determine what may be right for you. I encourage you to ask your health care provider now before confusing headlines and possible misinformation on this important topic begin to fill the media. n See Act 16 Legislation - http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/li/ uconsCheck.cfm?yr=2016&sessInd=0&act=16

Winter 2018 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2018

55+ FEATURE

Hearing Impacts Health Outcomes

ave you had to ask someone to repeat themselves? Or are you often repeating yourself for a loved one who has a hard time hearing? If so, you are not alone. Hearing loss is the third most common chronic health condition after arthritis and heart disease in older adults and the fourth most detrimental condition related to quality of life in older adults. Untreated hearing loss is related to poor health outcomes, including compromised cognitive function, in aging individuals. Individuals with untreated hearing loss suffer more from depression and social isolation than the general population. Untreated hearing loss is linked to poorer overall health and burden of disease which leads to greater hospitalization and general health care use. Individuals with untreated hearing loss report dissatisfaction with overall quality, accessibility, and receipt of information related to their healthcare. These data suggest that there is potentially a large cost to individuals, families, society and the health care system when hearing loss goes untreated. In fact, a recent review of the literature estimates that untreated hearing loss results in $3.3 billion dollars in excess medical expenditures per year. Yet only about 18 percent of older individuals who need amplifica-

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tion use hearing aids. There are a variety of barriers that may prevent older individuals from pursuing personal amplification. These include cost (devices are not covered by Medicare and typically are not covered by other insurers), access to care, ongoing need for upkeep of devices, recognition that they have hearing loss and perceived stigma associated with wearing devices, among other reasons. Although UPMC Audiology continues to provide resources for the pursuit of personal amplification including several mechanisms for adults to receive no-cost or low-cost hearing aids, in the past few years, we have focused our attention on making health care accessible for individuals who do not currently choose to use personal hearing aids. The goal is to impact health outcomes by impacting the individual’s ability to communicate successfully in health care interactions. If hearing is a patient’s primary mode of receiving communication, compromised hearing prevents the person from fully participating in health care decisions. To accomplish the goal of making health care interactions accessible for a population where the majority have untreated hearing loss, UPMC Audiology has teamed up with the Division of Geriatric Medicine at UPMC to provide simple, low-cost headset amplifiers in every examination room. Patients use these simple amplifiers while interacting with their health care team to make sure they can fully participate in the appointment. A recent study from the University of Pittsburgh Department of Communication Science and Disorders revealed that untreated hearing loss impacts the assessment accuracy on certain cognition evaluations, such as the Mini-Mental Status Examination. Using an amplifier during the appointment can guarantee that assessments and interactions are accurate. A number of families have purchased the low-cost amplifier to take home and use for family conversations and TV listening. A simple, cost-effective solution can benefit the entire family. Our other focus has been to make sure our UPMC hospitals are communication-accessible for all our patients. Health care providers can contact Audiology to provide the simple, low-cost amplifier to any hospital patient in the UPMC system. Patients who may have been “getting along” with their hearing loss in their day-to-day lives find that the unfamiliar hospital environment with unfamiliar talkers, unfamiliar terminology and the stress of illness make communication difficult with untreated hearing loss. The simple amplifier improves the patient’s ability to relax and use their energy for getting well, and communicating effortlessly eases the burden for staff and family. We have most recently been working closely with our colleagues in palliative care and hospice care for whom communicating to ensure patients are making fully informed decisions is fundamental. UPMC is committed to all forms of access, including communication, in their facilities, so patients take these amplifiers with them as they transition to rehabilitation settings or home. For more information about treating hearing loss to improve health outcomes, please contact Dr. Catherine Palmer at 412-647-6089 or email at palmercv@upmc.edu. n

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2018

REAL ESTATE

What Do Baby Boomers Want in Their New Home? By Deb Walton

ain-floor living with an open floor plan and outdoor entertaining spaces are in. Formal dining and living rooms and tons of space are out. Think marble floors, granite countertops, commercial-grade appliances, vegetable sinks, bathroom refrigerators, built-in vacuums, separate showers, steam rooms and Jacuzzis, eyebrow windows, French doors, interior gardens and water features, renewable flooring surfaces, in-home recycling centers, media rooms with built-in screens and projection systems, dual master suites with walk-in closets. This phenomenon is referred to as “jewel box” housing - full amenity homes built on a smaller scale. In the baby boomer world, downsizing is proving to be a distinctly upscale activity. These homes provide the best of everything designed into a smaller footprint - a move away from large ranch-style, single-family homes to multiple-story homes on smaller lots. The term “jewel box home” is not new. Famed architects Louis H. Sullivan and Frank Lloyd Wright used the term to describe some of their favorite designs. Baby boomers looking for new homes may not necessarily say they want a “jewel-box” home, yet these maintenance-free, stylish homes top their list. Latest trends show that retirees and empty nesters downsizing from larger homes are increasingly deciding to build “jewel box homes” – smaller, sophisticated homes that feature elegant detailing, custom built-ins and top-quality materials often found in larger custom-built homes. The ability to live on one floor is important to boomers even if there is upstairs space available. Some begin their search thinking they want a ranch home but soon realize that upstairs bedrooms provide space for visiting children and grandchildren. Although boomers are downsizing, they still want storage with at least a onecar garage. They are downsizing but not getting rid of everything and want the space to store what is important to them. Large master suites with walk-in closets, ceramic-tiled showers, double sink granite-topped vanities, and Jacuzzi tubs are a requirement of boomers. This can all be found in the smaller footprint of a jewel box home. Jewel box homes are close to 2,000 square feet and range from $350,000 to $500,000 although depending on location, square footage and amenities, these homes can approach $1 million. n

Winter 2018 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

Study on Night Shift and Sleep Problems

“S

leep problems may increase the risk of….” This is a common story. Indeed, sleep problems can compromise our heart, immune system and brain function. About 50 percent of adults aged 60+ report some sleep problems. This begs the question, “If poor sleep is so detrimental to health in older adults, what is causing sleep problems? “ While there is still much to learn about the causes of poor sleep, many of consequences of poor sleep–like poorer physical and mental health–can also cause poor sleep. For example, depression or back pain, this can adversely affect your sleep, which can result in more depression or pain. One cause of poor sleep and poor health may be the lasting effects of night shift work. People with a history of working jobs that require them to be awake in the middle of the night, may have an increased risk of both sleep problems and health problems. These negative effects may continue long after they have left the job. The results may be a poorer quality of life and a shorter life. So, how can you improve your sleep? First make sleep a priority. Go to bed every night and sleep for six to eight hours. Second, keep good “sleep hygiene:” reduce food and drink, especially caffeine and alcohol, before bedtime, keep the bedroom a comfortable temperature, and minimize light and noise. Lastly, talk with your doctor about conditions that could be affecting your sleep. If you are still having trouble, there is treatment like Brief Behavioral Treatment for Insomnia (ask your physician or contact a specialty center). Sleeping well is key to living well. Sleep well, be well. n Stephen F. Smagula, PhD Assistant Professor Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health University of Pittsburgh

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2018

ADVERTORIAL

Preparing for Obstacles That Arise Later in Life By Brian J. Catale

rian Catale was working in the financial industry for many years before deciding to head out on his own. When he decided to take the leap, he realized he needed to stand out from the many other firms in the area. After talking with clients and family he quickly realized that there was a gap in help for those entering retirement and planning for the years they have ahead of them While working hard to help this over 55 community he realized that a big concern was losing money or outliving their money they set aside. Basically, not being fully prepared for age-related expenses. Brian heard this term once from a colleague and it stuck with him. Many families do not know how to prepare for the obstacles that

may arise late in life. “Through this over 30-year ride after retirement there can be a lot of bumps in the road with health care costs and long term care to caring for the home and the extra expenses due to age.” Brian wants to help his clients make their funds outlive them and help to transfer what is left to the next generation at little or no cost. Located just outside Treesdale in Mars, Brian Catale and Associates work hard with families to be sure they are covered through any obstacles that may appear in front of them. “I am passionate about educating retirees about how to improve and sustain their present lifestyle while implementing and using veteran benefits, retirement strategies, and wealth preservation.”

L to R: Lanell Kimmel, Brian Catale, Kimberly Catale, Jody Catale, Tim Wheeler and Billie Jo Richman

Retirement Planning and Wealth Preservation 910 Sheraton Drive Suite 240 Mars, PA 16046 Telephone: 724-591-8475 Toll Free: 800-794-0929 Website: Bcatale.com Brian@Bcatale.com

Winter 2018 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

He wants to help families establish a solid foundation for retirement and creates a Family Legacy Lifeprint® to benefit his clients today and in the future. Brian Catale helps the community with his expertise by hosting workshops, publishing articles, and through his weekly radio show Wisdom Keys For Retirement. He also is proud of creating Operation Veteran Benefits which is a community service of Brian Catale and Associates. The team is committed to helping veterans and their spouses learn about and receive the benefits they earned and deserve. Brian Catale and Associates are excited to help this retirement generation make their money last while preparing for the age-related expenses. They are available to meet with the whole family so that everyone is on the same page with how the money should be handled. He wants Treesdale residents to know that it is important to plan early with the right people that have the experience to guide them. “Too many times people crises plan and that is the worst time to do it, never plan during a storm.” To learn more visit www.bcatale. com or call 724-591-8479 or 800-7940929. For more information on veteran benefits visit www.operationveteranbenefits.com or call 724-591-8475 or 866-974-6737. n Brian Catale is known for Wealth Preservation and Retirement Strategies. At Operation Veteran Benefits and Brian Catale and Associates, We have been able to help hundreds of healthcare professionals with strategies and techniques that no other advisors have been able to accomplish before. You may have seen Brian and his team in your place of work. They are helping your patients, parents, family members, and friends. You may have also heard Brian on Pittsburgh Talk Radio on his show, Wisdom Keys for Retirement. Brian and his team have been able to compile an effective system to assist in the complete retirement planning stages, from when to start your first social security check, to disinheriting the government at your death.

SAFETY FOR SENIORS

Online Safety for Seniors

Staying Safe at Home

By Janice Lane Palko

handsome man with salt and pepper hair sends you a Facebook friend request. An official-looking email bearing a return address of the IRS arrives in your inbox requesting information. A prompt appears on your iPhone asking whether you want to allow location services for an app. If you spend enough time online or on your smart phone, you’ve probably encountered at least one of these situations. Perhaps they have given you pause, wondering what you should do. If you respond incorrectly, it could cost you dearly. According to the FBI’s 2016 Internet Crime Report, there were nearly 300,000 complaints lodged with the bureau about possible fraudulent internet activity. One third of the victims were age 50 or older, resulting in nearly $638 million in loss. No one likes to appear paranoid or suspicious, but when it comes to online safety, seniors should be wary. Below are some tips for keeping safe in cyberspace. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. The saying goes, There’s no such thing as a free lunch. Well, there isn’t anyone in cyberspace just waiting to gift you money either. Never give out personal information online. Today, personal information can be more valuable than money because in the wrong hands, it can not only unlock your financial accounts, but it can also put you in danger. While we know it’s tempting to post photos of yourself on vacation, unless you are absolutely certain that your Facebook posts are secure, you are in effect broadcasting that you are not at home, leaving your place vulnerable to break-ins and robberies. Which leads to. . . Verify your Facebook security settings. Check to make sure that your settings are secure and while you are at it, it might be a good idea to turn off those location apps that track and post every place you visit. Don’t make it easy for someone to stalk you. Watch who you befriend. Just because the profile picture looks attractive, don’t be fooled. Any scammer can post a photo. And never, ever give send someone money that you’ve met online. Don’t open emails from unfamiliar addresses. Scammers can be very tricky and send messages that look very official. If the IRS is trying to reach you, they will do so by mail and not the internet. If you do participate in online dating, only meet dates in public places, inform a family member or friend about your date. It’s difficult to stay ahead of online scammers. While we are going about our lives, they are busy dreaming up new ways to defraud people. It’s easy to be taken in, and should you suspect that you have been victimized, get in touch with your local police department as soon as possible. n

hile safety issues often focus on how to stay safe while driving or at the mall, etc. The place seniors may most be at risk is at home. “The place where you may be in need the most is right in your own home,” said Paul Yuretich, owner of On-Call Services, which provides services and products that help seniors to stay safely at home, so they can remain independent for as long as possible. “Typically when you are out, you will have access to people who can help or (Continued on page 20)

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2018

Staying Safe (Continued from page 19)

assist you. It’s when you are home alone, that you need to be able to get help,” said Yuretich. On-Call Services can assess your home and make recommendations to improve your home or the home of a senior you love, to make it as safe as possible. For instance, making sure you have carbon monoxide detectors, smoke alarms and fire extinguishers that are installed and in working order. Another set of products and services that On-Call Services recommends are two medical pendant alert systems for contacting help when you need it. Specifically, the Freedom Alert and Guardian Alert Emergency Pendant Alerting Systems. “Many seniors may find themselves in a situation where they need help, but don’t want to call 911 because they are concerned over making a fuss,” said Yuretich. “For them, we recommend the Freedom Alert. The Freedom Alert can be programmed to call up to four numbers of family members or neighbors alerting them that you need help. When you press the button, it will automatically call the first person. It waits a few seconds; then, if no one answers, it moves on and calls the next number. After all four numbers have been called, it can then call 911 automatically or cycle through the four numbers again. We will even program the Freedom Alert for you.” The Guardian Alert dials 9-1-1 at the press of the button and puts you in contact with a trained professional 9-1-1 operator that can send help and provide life saving instructions to you before help arrives. The best thing about these devices is that they have no monthly fee. Similar devices on the market require seniors to also purchase a monthly “monitoring” fee. Since the Freedom Alert and Guardian pendant work only as needed, they do not require monitoring. Examples of other safety products include emergency key lockboxes, door chimes to alert a caregiver that a family member who may suffer from dementia has opened a door or window and emergency exterior lighting switch that enables you to set your exterior lights to a flashing mode to direct approaching emergency responders to your residence. To learn more about these and all the home safety solutions available for seniors at On-Call Services, visit: http:// www.on-callservices.com or call (412) 322-7322. n

Winter 2018 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

55+ FEATURE

Aging Gracefully By Mike Doerfler

orna Gavin, founder of Aging Gracefully, is an elder care manager and offers a multitude of services including assistance in the selection and monitoring of in-home health care, crisis intervention, caregiver assistance, care planning assessment, family liaison, consumer education and advocacy, moving assistance and counseling and support. An ECM can be a registered nurse, gerontologist or social worker. Lorna is a registered nurse as well as geriatric care manager and works with seniors and/or disabled individuals and their families to create a plan to keep the person in their home, while allowing the individual to live the best life as possible. The overarching goal of any plan is to ensure dignity, quality of life, security, and benefit by finding the best living arrangements, providing the best expertise and advice for individual concerns and using the proper community resources to aid in the building of the plan. Everyone has different needs, objectives and circumstances, and Lorna works closely with the family to take the right steps to ensure the best possible results going forward. “Let me help you sift out the possibilities of aging well,” said Lorna. “Aging happens, are you ready? Aging Gracefully starts right now.” n

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2018

ADVERTORIAL

Planning for the Future with Medicare Options As we approach retirement, one of the greatest concerns is determining the cost of health care. Health care will likely be your biggest expense during the golden years. Obviously, these costs are a tough number to nail down and one that will vary by person, but there are estimates available.

recent study conducted by Fidelity Investments estimated that a 65-yearold, healthy couple can expect to spend $275,000 over the course of their retirement on health care costs – that’s a 6 percent increase over last year. Fidelity’s estimate applies to those with traditional Medicare insurance coverage and considers premiums, co-payments,

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. Crystal A. Manning

Medicare Advisor

Call 412-716-4942 or email crystalmanning33@gmail.com 10008 Pine Ridge Drive Wexford, Pa. 15090

deductibles and out-of-pocket drug costs. It excludes the cost of a nursing home or any long-term care that may be needed. The estimate also assumes that both spouses are retiring at age 65 and will live to between the ages of 86 and 88. Older Americans enrolled in Medicare health plans have better access to care and are less likely to have problems paying their medical bills than people who insure themselves or receive coverage through their employers, according to a new study. Although Medicare does not cover all the costs of health care, including long-term care for the elderly and disabled, of these costs, Medicare comprises the largest amount. Most people don’t pay a premium for Medicare Part A, which covers hospital visits. But you will pay monthly premiums for Part B (doctor services and outpatient care), Part D (prescription drugs), and supplemental coverage which may cover the cost for deductibles, co-pays and medications. These premiums may be deducted from your monthly Social Security check. The premium for Part B is tied to inflation. Most people paid $134 a month in 2017 — and it isn’t going up in 2018. You may have to pay more if you do not receive Social Security because you receive a government pension, or if your annual income is more than

Winter 2018 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

$85,000. The premiums for Part D and supplemental insurance are set by your provider and vary by plan and by where you live. You can expect these to take up a big chunk of your expenses and are big drivers of rising health care costs. You’ll still have to pay for some expenses out-of-pocket. Medicare doesn’t cover things like long-term care, or dental and vision insurance. Studies show that Medicare patients satisfaction with their coverage depends on whether they were enrolled in traditional Medicare plans or in Medicare Advantage plans that are offered by private insurance companies. People with Medicare Advantage plans also were more likely to have trouble affording their medical care than those with traditional Medicare. How much extra you’ll need really comes down to how healthy you are, how long you live and at what age you retire. Health care costs are a major concern in retirement and should be an integral part of your retirement planning. The role of a Licensed Medicare Advisor is to advise those approaching retirement to understand Medicare coverage and the affordability of comprehensive coverage. If you have questions and would like my consult at no cost to you, please contact me by phone at 412-7164942 or by email at crystalmanning33@gmail.com. n

55+ FEATURE

Dignity Home Care Professionals There’s a different type of in-home care company in town. Veteran-owned and family-run, Dignity Home Care Professionals infuses kindness in all they do. And they care about their clients and their caregivers equally.

wners, former Marine Sergeant Tom Schad and his wife Bethany, recruited Bethany’s mother, Hana Haatainen-Caye, to join them in running the company in December 2016. Bethany’s father, Bill Caye, has worked as a caregiver for Dignity since its inception in 2015. Add Bethany’s sister, Jessica Taylor, as a caregiver, and this truly is a family business.

The day-to-day operations in the Bellevue office are run by the mother/ daughter team, who are both certified caregivers. Their vision is simple: to help make these final chapters in people’s lives the very best they can be. Kindness and dignity are the hallmarks of the company and they settle for nothing less. Dignity HCP is a non-medical in-home care company affording seniors the opportunity to remain in their homes and maintain as much independence as possible. Services include basic companionship – reading together, playing games, watching a movie; grocery shopping and

meal preparation; escorting seniors to appointments and events; assisting with hospital or rehab discharge and transporting clients to their homes following in-patient care; bathing and providing personal care; laundry and light housekeeping; and more. Recent changes in the law in Pennsylvania now allow non-medical caregivers to assist with medications as well. Additionally, Dignity HCP provides occasional respite care to family caregivers who simply need a break, whether it’s overnight so they can get some rest, or during the day or evening so they can go on outings without having to worry about their loved ones. Caregivers are also available to accompany seniors to special events, like weddings or funerals. When it comes to in-home care, Dignity HCP broadens the term. Caregivers are available to spend time with seniors confined to nursing homes or assisted living facilities. While the facility staff provides direct care, the Dignity caregivers help to ease loneliness and add some fun to the long days when family members are unavailable to visit often. Wherever seniors in Allegheny County live, Dignity Home Care Professionals is there to offer support and partner with their families to enrich their lives. After all, kindness matters. n

547 Lincoln Ave. Suite 1 Bellevue, PA 15202 412.415.3168 info@dignityhomecarepgh.com www.dignityhomecarepgh.com

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2018

THE GOOD OLD DAYS

1987

Step Back Into...

It’s a year of tumbles – first a baby falls then the stock market nosedives By Paula Green

essica McClure, an 18-month-old toddler, fell 22 feet into a small well in her aunt’s backyard in Midland, Texas. She was trapped for 58 hours until she was finally rescued. William and Elizabeth Stern of New Jersey hired Mary Beth Whitehead to carry a baby for them. After the birth, Whitehead had a change of heart and wanted to keep the girl. The Sterns sued and won the right to bring “Baby M” up and allow Whitehead visitation rights.

Average: The average income was $24,350. Cost of a new home $92,000. The average cost of a new car $10,305. Gasoline was 89 cents per gallon. A dozen eggs cost 69 cents. A pound of bacon cost $1.80. A loaf of bread cost $1.28. The cost of gallon of milk was $1.98. Strawberries sold for $1.49 a pint. Cost of a first-class stamp was 24 cents.

Firsts: Supernova is observed, the first “naked-eye” supernova since 1604. The first version of Microsoft Excel for Microsoft Windows is released. Kodak introduced its Fling camera, which was a landmark in bringing the “disposable” camera to a mass audience. Disposable contact lenses became available for commercial distribution. Aretha Franklin was the first woman to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

U.S. Events: R. Budd Dwyer, treasurer for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, shot and killed himself during a

live press conference. Jim Bakker resigned as host of the PTL (Praise the Lord) Club after a scandal involving his former secretary Jessica Hahn. On Oct. 19, the stock market collapsed. The Dow plunged an astonishing 22.6 percent, the biggest one-day percentage loss in history.

World News: Margaret Thatcher is elected as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom for the third time. The CEO of Disney, Michael Eisner, and Prime Minister of France, Jacques Chirac, made a deal to create a European Disneythemed resort. The Dominion of Fiji proclaims itself as a Republic.

Entertainment: Popular films – Three Men and A Baby; Fatal Attraction; Beverly Hills Cop II; Good Morning, Vietnam; RoboCop; Moonstruck; The Untouchables; Dragnet; Full Metal Jacket; Lethal Weapon; Planes,

Winter 2018 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

Trains and Automobiles; The Last Emperor and Dirty Dancing. In theatre news – Les Miserables won eight Tony awards, including Best Musical.

Television: The Simpsons and Full House both debuted on television. Popular television shows – The Cosby Show, A Different World, Cheers, The Golden Girls, Growing Pains, Who’s the Boss, Night Court, 60 Minutes, Murder, She Wrote and ALF. Fox Broadcasting Co. made its primetime TV debut.

Songs: Top song was Faith by George Michael. Other hit tunes – Bad, Sweet Child of Mine, I Think We’re Alone Now, I Want to Dance With Somebody, Man in the Mirror and Where the Streets Have No Name. The Bangles had us all Walking like an Egyptian while Bon Jovi has us Living on a Prayer.

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU!

Publishing: Time Magazine’s Man of the Year – Mikhail Gorbachev. Popular books – Misery, Watchmen, Beloved, A Brief History of Time, Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Café, Batman: Year One, Kaleidoscope, Fine Things, The Eye of the Dragon, The Dark Tower II and The Rise and Fall of the Great Powers.

Sports: NFL – Super Bowl Champs – New York Giants; NBA Champions – Los Angeles Lakers; World Series Winner – Minnesota Twins; Stanley Cup Champ – Edmonton Oilers.

Politics: President – Ronald Reagan, Vice President – George H.W. Bush

Quotes: “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall.” – Ronald Reagan (requesting the elimination of The Berlin Wall) “Snap out of it!” – Cher in Moonstruck “Nobody puts ‘Baby’ in a corner” - Patrick Swayze in Dirty Dancing

Don’t Wait to Lose Weight with Dr. Vactor Do you want to have a fun and enjoyable new year? Do you want to be showing off a new you in only a month’s time?

all Dr. Michael Vactor TODAY at (724) 742-2700 to get the weight off and keep it off – don’t wait until the Holidays! Instead, CALL TODAY! EXERCISE is OPTIONAL. The focus of Dr. Vactor’s weight loss program is getting the pounds off first. This way exercise programs will not contribute to the risk of injury, joint pain or over-exertion from carrying too much weight. A trimmer you will be much more energetic and capable of joining in your favorite activities. Dr. Vactor’s innovative weight loss program focuses on shedding the pounds and keeping it off through a safe, healthy system that is made up of ALL-NATURAL INGREDIENTS with NO STIMULANTS. Unlike other programs that you may have tried, this program focuses on weight loss first; then, helps you to readjust to the thinner you. Here are just a few of the overall benefits of Dr. Michael Vactor’s LIFE-CHANGING Program: SAFE, FAST, EASY AND EFFECTIVE NATURAL WEIGHT LOSS • Lose at least a 1/2 pound per day, per cycle • NO cravings, NO hunger pains, NO pre-packaged foods • Helps burn fat while you sleep, raises your metabolism • Learn life style tools to keep it off • This program targets belly, bum, hips, thighs • GUARANTEED RESULTS According to Dr. Vactor, “People who follow my program as outlined get great results! Our average patient loses at least half a pound per day per cycle! To date, 90-95% of my patients have achieved their weight loss goals.” Dr. Vactor is so absolutely sure of the results and outcomes of his program, that he offers a GUARANTEE of RESULTS! Who is Dr. Michael Vactor, DC? Dr. Michael Vactor is a doctor of chiropractic, and a natural healthcare advocate in the north Pittsburgh area for over seventeen years. He is also an expert in weight loss management and is frequently featured on KDKA-TV, WPXI, Cornerstone-TV, radio shows and other public speaking venues on health, weight-loss, and diabetes issues. In addition, Dr. Vactor cares for

players, coaches and family members of our Black and Gold teams in Pittsburgh. During this time, Dr. Vactor and his family have lived in the Cranberry and Mars area, where he is also devoted to his community and helping his patients reach their goals. With over seventeen years in this community, he would not and could not make any such guarantee claims for weight loss, if they weren’t true. How to Get Started: If you are committed to losing the weight now and be slim and trim in about a month’s time, call for a FREE, in-office review of this life-changing weight loss system.

Call now, at (724) 742-2700. If you can’t call now, take a picture of the number with your SMART phone so you have the number ready to call. If you are one of the first 25 callers to schedule your no cost/no obligation consultation and in office review, and mention that you saw Dr. Vactor in the Winter 2018 issue of Pittsburgh Fifty-Five Plus magazine, you will receive a $100 discount good towards any of his guaranteed weight loss programs. Since losing weight is easier with a partner, we offer a double discount, $200 off per person, if you bring your spouse or significant other with you, and sign up together for our program, during your office consultation. Participants must both be present at time of program sign-up to receive the double discount. Not valid with any other offers and new patients only are eligible. Dr. Vactor’s office is conveniently located at 673 Castle Creek Drive, Ext. Suite 106 Seven Fields, PA 16046. Http://www.drvactor.com n Results may vary based on an individual’s physical health, diet, personal commitment, and adherence to the program. Average participant per cycle, loses 1/2 pound per day. Information provided is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. Guarantee can be reviewed in the office prior to starting the program. Before starting any weight loss program, consult with a healthcare professional.

Sources: http://www.inthe80s.com/ prices.shtml, http://www.thepeoplehistory. com/1987.html, http://www.pop-culture/us/ Annual/1987.html, http://www.liketotally80s. com/2007/08/80s-capsules-1987/

Tony from Aliquippa lost 30 pounds in one cycle on the program

Alex S. – Lost 40 pounds

Amanda T. – lost 50 pounds

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2018

WINTER ’18 HAPP Collections North Hills Community Outreach is collecting safety items for seniors. For details, visit nhco.org or call Cathy, at (412) 307-0069 x3313.

Entertainment & Social Legacy Theatre Movies, 2 p.m., Dec. 18, Love Actually; Dec. 25 & Jan. 1, no movies; Jan. 8, The Promise; Jan. 15, no movie; Jan. 22 Dunkirk; Jan. 29, Battle of Both Sexes, 700 Cumberland Woods Dr., McCandless. Visit http://www.thelegacylineup. com/movies/ 2nd Act, adults 55 & older gather monthly for music, inspirational speakers & outreach projects, 10 a.m.-noon, 2nd Thurs thru May, (Dec. 14), the lobby at Orchard Hill Church. For info visit, https://www.orchardhillchurch.com/. St. Alexis Over 50 trips: Spring Flower Show to Phipps, Mar. 27; Niagara Falls, Erie, Salamanca Casinos, Apr. 4-6; Little Switzerland, May 17; Gateway Clipper & Fireworks, July 4; Mackinac Island, Sept. 9. Contact, Rose (724) 728-2563, or (412) 908-0124, or Janet, at (724) 869-5339.

Health & Wellness Butler County Chamber of Commerce Health & Wellness Expo, noon-6 p.m., Feb. 2; 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Feb. 3, Clearview Mall Center Court. For info, visit http://www.butlercountychamber.com/ or call (724) 283-2222. Free Services for Seniors through North Hills Community Outreach. Help with rides to medical appts., grocery stores, yard work. Call Cathy at (412) 307-0069 ext. 3313 or Kerry at (412) 449-0151 to schedule an in-home registration visit.

Healthy Start Café, 8:45 a.m., every Mon & Thurs, St. John Lutheran Church of Highland, 311 Cumberland Rd. Presented by Lutheran SeniorLife & St. John Lutheran Church of Highland. Call (412) 364-1606 or (412) 307-1797.

Meals on Wheels McKnight Meals on Wheels provides home-delivered meals to the elderly, homebound and disabled. Services Ross Twp., Berkeley Hills, Swan Acres, McCandless, Shaler & Hampton Townships. Call (412) 487-4088. North Country Meal on Wheels provides home-delivered meals to the elderly, homebound & disabled. Services Marshall, Pine, Richland, Bradford Woods, Franklin Park, parts of McCandless, West Deer, Cranberry, Adams, Seven Fields, Mars & Valencia. Call (724) 9351877.

Seminars Legacy Theatre Seminars: And Starring…Wait? What! 11 a.m., Jan. 23; For info, visit http://thelegacylineup.com/

Senior Facilities UPMC Senior Communities offers independent living & personal care. For details, call 1-800-324-5523.

Cranberry Township 55+ Club meets at 1 p.m., the 2nd Tues., of the month in the Cranberry Municipal Center. The club features activities, social events and visitations. For info, call (724) 776-9274. Friends and Fun 55+ Singles meet at 7 p.m., every 1st Friday, at St. Ferdinand’s, Rochester Rd., Cranberry Twp., Oldenski Hall, Upper Room. Call (724) 776-9274. Friendship Groups for Visually Impaired, Men’s Group meets every Weds. 1-3:15 p.m., Knitting & Crocheting Circle meets every Weds., 1-3:15 p.m., Monthly Meeting 2nd Thurs. of each month 1:15-3:15 p.m., The Lunch Bunch meets 4th Thurs. of every month 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m., The Talking Book Club meets 1st Mon. of each month 1-2:30 p.m. Call (724) 444-0064. Gateway North AARP #3586 meets at 1 p.m., the 3rd Monday of the month, at West View Banquet Hall at 398 Perry Hwy. Short meeting with entertainment, and cake & coffee. Everyone is welcome. Primetimers, noon, first Thurs of the month, Christ Church Grove Farm, Ohio Twp. Call (412) 7414900 or visit http://www.ccgf. org.

Social Groups

Senior Meetings

Amazing Singles, for singles in the Pittsburgh region, visit, http://www.amazingsingles.com/ pittsburgh.html.

AARP 3736 welcomes new members, 7:30 p.m., every 2nd Thurs., of the month (except June & July) at St. Ursula Church Social Hall. Special dinners in Dec., May & Aug. and exciting trips.

Catholic Alumni Club of Pittsburgh, has dances, retreats and plays various sports and other great events. Visit their website http://www.cacpittsburgh.org/.

Winter 2018 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

Have fun and meet new people with the Association of University People/AUP. They’re looking for single, col-

lege graduates over 50 to join monthly dinners, meet at social spots, book club, play bridge or scrapple and social gatherings. Call (412) 734-8445 or visit www.aupsinglespittsburgh.org Visit Pittsburgh Events & Festivals lists upcoming events for singles, kids, and married folks. It enlightens Pittsburghers on dining, shopping and recreational events. Go to http:// www.visitpittsburgh.com/eventsfestivals.

Support Groups Alzheimer’s Support Group, 10 a.m., 1st Monday of each month, St. Catherine of Sweden Parish, 2554 Wildwood Rd. Call Suzie, at (724) 799-7049. Bereavement Support Group (for Widows/Widowers over 50), 1-2:30 p.m., 2nd & 4th Wed., St. Sebastian, Haber Hall. To register, call (412) 366-1300. Home Instead Senior Care® has a program to help families in Northwest Allegheny County manage the challenges of Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Free training is available at HelpForAlzheimersFamilies.com. Paramount Senior Living at Cranberry Alzheimer’s Affiliated Support Group meets 2 p.m., the last Friday. Contact Pam, at (724) 7795020.

Tax Prep Changes to AARP Tax Prep in 2018, Northland Library will partner with AARP to offer tax prep for senior citizens and lowincome residents. Appointments will be held 9 a.m.-noon, Tues. & Thurs., Feb. 6-Apr. 12. For info, visit https://www.northlandlibrary.org/.

PENINGS Volunteer Opportunities: Hope Hospice is looking for volunteers to visit Hospice patients. Call (412) 367-3685. Neighborly Gnomes assist seniors with disabilities with yard tasks. Visit NeedsbyNeighborhood.org. North Hills Community Outreach offers registration for volunteering to help seniors. Visit http://nhco.org/volunteer-opportunities/volunteer-help-seniors/, or call (412) 307-0069 x3313. North Hills Community Outreach urgently needs volunteers in the upper Route 28 corridor to help seniors. Visit http://

nhco.org/volunteer-opportunities/ volunteer-help-seniors/. For details, call Kerry, (412) 449-0151. Pittsburgh OASIS Intergenerational Tutor Program seeks volunteers (50+) to tutor in Pittsburgh & Woodland Hills School Districts in grades K-4. Trainings are held at 411 Seventh Ave., Suite 525 (Duquesne Light Building) downtown Pittsburgh. For info or to register, contact John at OASIS at (412) 393-7648 or jdspehar@oasisnet.org. Ursuline Services’ Checks and Balances program assists those who have difficulty with financial affairs. Register at (412) 224-4700 x113 or ktobin@ ursulinesupport.org.

www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com | Winter 2018

REM EM BER WHEN

Winter Is Here! By Joe Bullick

hope you had a great fall. Winter is the coldest season of the year. For us back in the day, we had to get the furnace ready. It was a coal furnace; no gas for us in the 1930s and 40s. We also had to get our cars ready. Today’s cars have all-season tires. As a young boy, I helped to put the chains on our tires. If there was a large snowfall, Route 19, was the only road plowed. The back roads were taken care of last. The road crew trucks had two men throwing cinders. Route 19 was the main highway from Pittsburgh to Erie and ran south all the way to Florida. No wonder, a lot of people went

south. Of course, we are talking about retirees. For some reason, I love winter. The winter still had fun things to do like go ice skating, building a snowman or fort. Ingomar school back then gave us an hour for lunch. We had no hot lunch then. We carried a bag or lunch bucket. After eating we went outside and skated on a small pond near the school. We were able to do things kids cannot do today. Mom always made soup or hot chocolate on the stove. If you have a fireplace, put a log on and then enjoy your family instead of watching television or checking cell phones. If your grandmother or

Winter 2018 | www.PittsburghFiftyFivePlus.com

grandfather is around, learn from them. Let them tell you about their winters. Take care of the birds with some feed. Make sure your pets are OK too. Take care. I have to get my snow shovel out. I leave you with this... Sunshine is delicious, rain is refreshing, wind braces us up, snow is exhilarating; there is really no such thing as bad weather, only different kinds of good weather. — John Ruskin Correction to the Fall Issue Remember When column. Joe Bullick has not sold his house and moved to Florida, and he has a son and a daughter.

BBL BroadBand Light Remove brown spots and age spots

Skin that looks as young as you feel. Cutting Edge Technology to Refresh Skin BBL™, also known as Intense Pulsed Light therapy (IPL), is a gentle, non-invasive new procedure that can be customized to your skin type—treating age spots, sun damage, rosacea, facial veins and more. you’re just a phone call away from revealing a new you. • Rejuvenate your skin cells and get healthier looking skin by removing brown spots, age spots and sun damage. • BBL™ Skin Therapy is a gentle procedure with no post-procedure downtime. • Areas that can be treated are your face, your hands and your chest. • Ideal Image offers affordable in-house financing and a convenient upfront price policy.

The Village at Pine 2000 Village Run Drive, #204 Wexford, PA 15090 (724) 759-2620

HOW DO YOU LOSE WEIGHT THE EASIEST, SAFE, AND EFFECTVE WAY?

Which of These Supplements Fit You? Super Slim – Elevates the metabolism. Eliminates cravings. Alleviates hunger.

Gut Buster – Works on eliminating belly fat caused by the aging metabolism.

Think Thin – Takes away emotional hunger from boredom, fatigue, anxiety, and depression.

Belly-B-Gone – Spot checks the body and goes directly to the mid area, decreasing “stomach” fat.

MangoLean – Stimulates the body without feelings of nervousness or jitteriness which will burn calories.

Sugar Maintenance – Takes away sugar cravings and helps to balance sugar/insulin levels.

PM Weight Loss – Acts like a “Fatseeking missile” and seeks out the fat and escorts it out of the body.

Sugar and Starch Blocker - Take 15-30 minutes before a sugar, starch, dairy, or alcohol and watch 50% of calories leave the body.

Body Shapers – Fish oils which absolutely shape the body and takes off the inches in the right places.

Resveratrol – Anti-inflamatory. Fat causes inflammation and inflammation causes fat.

Tri-phase Detoxification – Eliminates toxins and poisons from the liver, colon and kidneys, making weight loss faster and easier. Gut Health – Good bacteria of the body and food that feeds the good bacteria. Good health and weight loss must start with a clean gut. Protein Shakes – Vanilla and chocolate whey protein (21 g.). Excellent tasting, high in protein, and very clean. Cortisol Control – Eliminates fat caused by stress and high anxiety.

Super Strength Immune Booster – Immune system booster to fight the flu. Joint Health – Decreases “aging aches and pain” due to arthritis and general aging with wear and tear. CO-Q-10 – A must for anyone taking a statin drug for high cholesterol, providing energy to the body. Aqua Balance – Eliminates excess water and fluid retention caused by aging and salt.