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Of a certain age Wednesday, September 18, 2019 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon
Of a certain age... .18.19 Living the best years of your life in Sisters
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Finding your next adventure ........... pg. 18 Aging gracefully in an anti-aging world.. pg. 19 Seeking guidance to navigate aging .... pg. 21 Navigating the Medicare maze ....pg. 23 ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/JACOBLUND
Paw Prints
Jodi Schneider McNamee Columnist
Companion pets for older adults Anyone who has ever stroked a dog’s soft ears or felt the gentle rumble of a cat’s purr knows the calming feeling an animal can offer. Animals offer companionship and unconditional love; they can improve
health and general wellbeing, especially in the older adult population. The most serious problem for older adults is not disease; it’s loneliness. Elderly people, especially those living in residential care facilities, are at a higher risk for developing depression. When they are without a spouse or children around to keep them company, many seniors begin to feel isolated. Studies have shown that companion animals have the ability to lift the spirits of people who live alone and provide unconditional friendship and enrichment. Research studies have found that having a pet has significant benefits for seniors’ mental, physical, and emotional health — in other words, pets are good for your body and soul. Dogs are great for providing physical exercise, socialization, and overall day-to-day
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companionship. Getting out for a daily walk, or even just playing with a dog indoors, is an enjoyable form of activity, and seniors can choose a dog whose exercise demands are equal with their own needs and physical limitations. With the increasing numbers of pet-friendly assisted living communities, more seniors than ever are able to keep their longtime companions with them in the next stage of their lives. Alea Schliep, life enrichment coordinator from The Lodge in Sisters, told The Nugget a special story of how a lonely resident’s life turned around after adopting a small dog. “A few years ago, when I was working at an assistedliving facility, I had a resident who became withdrawn. His wife had passed away and he was lonely. I had set up a field trip for the residents to visit a humane society
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and I was hoping this resident might connect with an animal. He really liked this one dog and adopted her that day. His life turned around. His behavior changed and he was happy again.” She added, “Residents in a facility need that special animal waiting for them when they go back to their rooms after lunch, activities, or an outing. They become
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attached to a companion animal that brings them so much joy.” Choosing the right dog for a senior can be a fun and enriching process. It starts with assessing the needs and wants of a prospective pet parent. Some breeds require more exercise than others. If
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Wednesday, September 18, 2019 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon Of a certain age
PETS: The right companion adds quality of life Continued from page 16
you’re fairly active, you may be able to handle a dog that needs lots of play-time and opportunities to run. But if you have mobility or stamina issues, you might want to choose a dog that is content with a few short walks. Some very small dogs may even be able to get all the exercise they need just by running around inside your home. Smaller dogs are easier to keep under control and are more suitable for seniors living in condos, apartments, or care facilities. Small dogs can fit in your lap, are more portable than larger breeds, won’t physically overwhelm you and can be easily groomed in a sink. Keep in mind that some small dogs have lots of nervous energy and try to make up for their diminutive stature with plenty of barking. Alternatively, docile larger dogs that don’t require a lot of maintenance may be a good choice. Older dogs are better dogs for seniors to adopt than puppies that are super active and tend to chew and nip. Adult dogs are typically already housetrained and well-socialized with people. Mature dogs also tend to be the calmest dogs, with more predictable behavior patterns. Dogs’ temperaments are influenced by the genes they are born with as well as the way they are brought up. While any dog can be raised to be friendly, some breeds are more naturally conditioned to be gentle and welcoming. Beagles, retrievers, poodles, and bulldogs are among the dogs that have the
best temperament. However, caring for a pet is not to be entered into lightly. It’s important for that right pet to be affordable to an older pet parent. Since many seniors live on limited incomes, it’s essential to consider a pet parents ability to pay for their pet’s basic needs. Starting expenses include the adoption or purchase costs, spaying or neutering, vaccinations and a crate. Regular expenses will include food, toys, vet visits, medications and the possibility of grooming. Even though pets are a source of joy for many older adults, the cost of care can be a strain for some seniors. If you’re having trouble paying for food, vaccinations, and veterinary care for your pet, there may be low-cost or free resources available in your community. Here’s how to find the help you and your pet need. Kiki Dolson, founder of Furry Friends Foundation (FFF), estimates about 40 percent of the families that the nonprofit organization helps are seniors on fixed incomes. She noted, “Many live alone and have one or two pets for companionship. By providing their pet’s monthly food and other pet supplies it adds extra dollars to their monthly budget. Furry Friends also helps with vaccinations and spay/neuter, all large-cost items for an individual on a fixed income. In that way we can help keep their pets healthy and in their homes.” The Humane Society of the U.S. has a state-by-state list of financial-aid resources for pet owners. With some persistence you can keep your pets in the best possible health, even on a tight budget.
Fit For
Sisters Andrew Loscutoff Columnist
Exercise and fitness for a lifetime Exercise was once exclusive to young, ambitious, and driven people striving for beach-body glory. However, in the recent years a monumental shift has transformed gyms, local recreational activity, and racing events like triathlon and trail running. This shift, from young hardbodies to wise grey-haired zealots has shown the potential for human longevity and why exercise is so important. According to USA Triathlon, the number of Americans age 70 or older who participated in officially sanctioned triathlons (covering races of varying distances) grew 168 percent between 2009 and 2017. This isn’t the only surge in activity: A surprising statistic from runnerclick.com revealed the largest growth in age groups for marathon runners was the 80-99 year old athletes. This is astonishing. Not only this but the fastest recreational runners are the 40- to 49-year-old age groups. When looking at finishing times, the group with the greatest
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improvements in average times has been the 50 to 59 age group. Where are all these late bloomer athletes coming from? There’s no doubt that the population is aging; by 2020 20 percent of the total USA population will be 65 or older, but this isn’t the end of the story. Our culture is embracing the attitude that exercise is essential for all ages. There are more peers for older adults to train or recreate with, and there are many more events to participate in. Not only this, but the population of retirees seems to be seeking the thrills that were on the back burner during child-rearing years. It also appears that what once was a stigma of age is no longer prevalent. It is now shown with proper exercise, rehab, and recovery an athlete can play at the elite level into their 40s. Some athletes defy age and continue into their 50s in the recreational elite levels. Rebecca Rusch, a 50-year-old professional mountain-biker an d a d v e n t u r e a t h l e t e sums it up in an Outside
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Of a certain age Wednesday, September 18, 2019 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon
Finding your next adventure By Susan Waymire, CTC Correspondent
How often have we heard of “Bucket List” travel or “Adventure” travel? What does this really mean and what is involved for you to personally travel in this manner? Here is a look at the different forms of adventure travel and how you can explore the world in an exciting and unique way. Exploration/Expedition Cruising: This market is hot and perhaps the fastest-growing sector in the travel industry at the moment. Smallship cruising to popular destinations such as Alaska, Baja, the Galapagos, and Antarctica allow just about anyone who is curious and of reasonable physical condition to explore these unique places. Many of these ships sail with under 100 passengers, allowing them to explore different and smaller ports of call than the much larger ships. Naturalists from the region are your guides who cover the many topics from those areas —wildlife, geology, history, to name a few. Exploration is done via Zodiacs, scuba-diving, kayaks, or hiking on shore allowing you to get up close to the glaciers and wildlife. As these ships do not always have elevators, you should be able to ascend/descend stairs and be able to ride in a skiff or Zodiac. There is no nightly entertainment, rather there are lectures from guest experts or perhaps a local band. Many of these suppliers integrate the local culture into their programs. There are numerous side activities such as piranha fishing or paddleboarding on
the Amazon, cooking classes from the ship’s chef, or snorkeling with the Galapagos penguins. So as long as you’re still mentally curious, this is a great way to travel without much physical effort. Active Adventure Travel: These trips offer physical challenges to their travelers. Hiking, biking, and kayaking are the primary activities but skiing, horseback-riding and other activities are options for the fit traveler. As an avid active traveler, I suggest that my clients do the physical work to prepare for their trips. Conditioning for these trips depends on the level of activity you’re looking to do. You should know your body’s limits if you’re taking an active adventure. Nothing is worse than missing out on that epic glacial heli-ski run because you had to head in early for the day due to lack of training. Many outfitters specify what kind of physical requirements will be needed. There are “multi-sport” trips that include all means of active travel and offer cultural experiences as well. So, if you’re a rock-climber or you love Via Ferrata, that passion can take you to new heights worldwide in dramatic settings you never have experienced before. And, the biggest bonus is you can enjoy the whiskey-tasting and eat whatever gourmet food you want after that full day of hiking. Wildlife Adventures: Perhaps one of the biggest adventures on many travelers’ bucket lists is an African safari. Who doesn’t want to explore the Big Five in their natural habitat. The journey to Africa is long, but so worth the effort. Seeing the rhino prior to extinction, a cheetah
Senior health fair on tap in Sisters SPRD and Sisters-Camp Sherman Rural Fire Protection District will present the third Senior/60s+ Health Fair, slated for Thursday, October 10, at the Sisters Fire Hall from 3 to 7 p.m. “Last year we received several emails and phone calls from individuals who wanted to attend the fair but were unable because they still work, so we decided to try this new day and time,” said Shannon Rackowski, event coordinator for SPRD. Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District and SPRD have been partners in the Health
Fair from the beginning. All the participants from past years will be joining the fair again this year. St. Charles Hospital, The Lodge in Sisters, Mosaic Medical, Les Schwab, Oregon Council on Aging, Central Electric Cooperative, All American Hearing, Step & Spine, Shibui Spa and more will be on hand. This fair is free to the community, with all participants providing a free service: Hearing, eye testing, tire pressure checks, balance testing, orthotics checks, posture screening, massages, blood pressure checks, and more.
in a full sprint, or a lioness with her cubs is nothing short of exhilaration. There are different forms of safari accommodations, from camping or glamping to beautiful lodges. In either case you’ll be riding along bumpy roads in a 4x4, so if back or joint problems are an issue, PHOTO COURTESY SUSAN WAYMIRE you may want to make sure you’re Is it time you to schedule your “Bucket List” travel? Perhaps the Galapagos are for you. physically fit for this. While in Africa, you’ll be traveling via ship, mak- is one of the more rewardexperience the local culture ing it an easy trip for most ing forms of travel and one such as the Masai people of anyone. The important note that gives back to an impovhere is to read carefully the erished community. There’s Eastern Africa. Other wildlife expeditions itinerary with the activity it eco-travel as well, where now available are viewing requires and to review it with you may be helping with the the polar bears in Churchill, a knowledgeable travel advi- wildlife in the Galapagos or grizzlies in Alaska and of sor. Viewing wildlife some- cleaning the plastic from the course, the famous Gorilla times means hiking a fair dis- ocean. Whichever trip you Trek in Uganda or Rwanda. tance to get close enough for take, the reward is a lifeMany of these outfitters have that perfect photo. Personally, changing experience and photography experts on staff I will be traveling to see the one you’ll remember for a to help you snap that perfect polar bears of Churchill. lifetime. picture to hang on your office With talk of extinction, I am With this said, adventure wall. With that said, you’ll excited to have this checked comes from within. We all want to factor in the cost of off my list this year. know what gets us excited T r a v e l f o r G o o d / and gets that adrenaline a solid camera with a 300mm lens to get those once-in-a- Sustainability: With this form pumping. If you’re not as lifetime photos. While the of adventure travel, you’ll active, it’s still possible to Gorilla Trek requires some give back in some way to the nurture your soul and travel fitness, the polar bear trip in good of our planet. Whether to see the diversity of our Manitoba requires little fit- it’s helping install water puri- planet and people. Adventure ness as you travel out on the fiers in the Amazon, or help- travel can take you places tundra in a giant all-terrain ing teach kids in India, or you never thought you’d get building homes in Mexico, to in your lifetime. Step out vehicle. If you travel to the you’re one-on-one with the of your comfort zone and Amazon or Antarctica, you’ll people and the culture. This explore your wild side!
Wednesday, September 18, 2019 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon Of a certain age
Your Story MATTERS
Audry Van Houweling, PMHNP Columnist
Aging gracefully in an anti-aging world The undertaking of aging gracefully is a lot to ask for in a society that fights so hard against what is unavoidable. As a millennial myself, I may be a bit removed from the post-65 generation defined as “senior citizens,” yet I find myself already critiquing my emerging laugh lines, scavenging for the arrival of gray hairs, and recently spent far more than I care to admit on a “magic” (per the sales associate) brew for my face promising to ward off the inevitable. We frequently go to extremes to seek out the elusive fountain of youth. We go under the knife to stretch, contort, and implant our bodies, purchase supplements touted on late-night infomercials with promises too good to be true, douse ourselves with the latest and greatest potions to erase our wrinkles or restore our hairlines, and spend our hard-earned money in all sorts of ways in hopes that we can maintain a version of youthfulness. The pressure to partake in the massive and manipulative multi-billion-dollar antiaging industry is especially understandable in our society that frankly, is pretty pitiful when it comes to honoring the relevance and value of our older generations. Ultimately, it boils down to holding onto respect, being seen, and being acknowledged. This quest for youth can all be a bit exhausting and ultimately when despite our best efforts, our body, our appearance, and our abilities inevitably change, it can be
difficult to maintain a sense of optimism. Furthermore, as the aging process continues, a person may feel their world shrinking as family and friends may move or pass away, mobility declines, and recognition previously gained in the workplace may lessen. Finding connection and combatting feelings of isolation and loneliness can be insidious and a huge contributor to depression, anxiety, and fear. Adults aged 85 and older have the highest suicide rates nationwide, while those aged 75-84 have the second highest. Convincing older adults who may have grown up with considerable stigma around the subject that their mental health is important can be an obstacle on its own. Older adults may fear judgment and/or that their independence may be jeopardized. Additionally, our healthcare system needs to work harder on dismantling the notion that depression and anxiety are “normal” in aging populations, which further dissuades aging adults from seeking help and may prevent the implementation of potentially effective treatment strategies. It is thought that up to 50 percent of cases of major depression go undiagnosed in older populations — often attributed to the “aging process” or also commonly, dementia. Specialist care is hard to come by and let’s not forget the issues of Medicare, poor reimbursement for mentalhealth care, and the red tape that discourages too many providers from even accepting Medicare. I could rant about this on its own — another soapbox for another time, perhaps. The numbers of geriatricians or physicians trained specifically in caring for aging populations falls far short of the demand. There are fewer than 7,000 geriatricians nationwide — a significant shortage when considering the demand of the 14-million older adults living today. Ideally, there would be 20,000 or more geriatric providers assuming each provider carried a panel of 700 patients. And so, finding providers that appreciate physical and psychological complexities, potential drug interactions, and psychosocial needs can be very difficult. While the obstacles and warped social ideals of aging
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deserve mention, there can also be much to gain and much joy to be had. Many older adults enjoy freedoms with their time and resources that may not have been present before. For some, it can be a chance to pursue hobbies, seek new social connections, travel, and grow in selfdiscovery. While perceived feelings of being insignificant can come with grief, it can
also be a kind of liberation as it allows an opportunity to shed inhibitions and insecurities of being so consumed with the opinions of others. As a society and certainly for millennials like myself, we need to take pause and rethink how we navigate our own aging journey and also honor generations preceding us. We need to recognize how such fears of aging and, yes,
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death contribute to higher levels of anxiety, depression, and despair. In our relentless fight to stop aging, we can lose out on the wisdom, value, and growth aging can offer and discredit the significance of the older adults that paved the way for us. As Betty Friedan so eloquently voices, “Aging is not lost youth, but a new stage of opportunity and strength.”
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Of a certain age Wednesday, September 18, 2019 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon
Focus on good skincare as we age By Karen Keady Correspondent
Modern healthcare, as well as a growing interest in organic living and holistic health, have us romping into our golden years rather than crawling into a rocking chair. The result is a growing population expected to live longer than any generation before. How we live these years to come is dependent on how we live our lives today. Hiking, biking, swimming, massage, bodywork, facials, and good overall skincare can be instrumental in helping us look better and feel better as we gracefully age. Just as massage and bodywork can keep the body feeling young and energized, proper skin-care is the avenue used to ward off the signs of aging. The three biggest offenders that age skin the most are sun damage, smoking, and not cleansing your skin at night. Following are some healthful aging-well tips from this former dermatology nurse and current master esthetician. Protect your skin: Tanned skin may look healthy and golden and be associated with health and vitality, but the truth is, tanned skin is a benchmark of damaged skin. (Only a small amount of sunlight is required for the body to make vitamin D). Many of us grew up in a time where we slathered on baby oil mixed with iodine to enhance our efforts at glowing skin. Parents didn’t sunscreen their children in those days. We now know that UVA and UVB rays are not only harmful but can be deadly. Skin cancer rates have been on the rise over the past 30 years. Of the nearly 2 million new cases per year, 90,000 will be malignant melanoma,
Alpaca meat can be a healthier choice By Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief
BEFORE
AFTER
Before and after photos of a client with severe sun damage to her chest. Following dermatologist treatment, she followed a regime of healing LED treatments, an organic healing balm, potent C&E serum, and daily-use, water-resistant SPF 30 mineral sunscreen. the most serious and aggressive of skin cancers. UVB rays are associated with a sunburn while UVA rays penetrate deeper and cause more damage. Melanoma is believed to be the result of excessive UVA exposure. All radiation has a damaging effect on the immune system, causing premature aging, wrinkling, and gives the skin a leathery appearance. Skin aging, melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, actinic keratosis, as well as hyperpigmentation all began before we were 18 years old! Eighty percent of sun damage occurs before the age of 18. It’s cumulative. In my skincare salon, I’ve referred five clients in eight years with suspect lesions to a dermatologist. All five were operable cancer. I hope everyone reading this article will get screened regularly, by a physician. Do not forget your eyes. Sunglasses should provide 100 percent UV protection. Choosing the right sunscreen is equally important. Not all sunscreens are photostable or appropriate for babies, children or pregnancy. There are significant health concerns as well as environmental hazards with
many ingredients in popular sunscreen brands. Evaluate all ingredients for safety and effectiveness. Absolutely a v o i d : Av o b e n z o n e , Octocrylene, Oxybenzone. A barrier sunscreen is more effective and safer than a chemical sunscreen — and don’t forget the hat. The American Cancer Society and dermatologists agree that an SPF 30 is adequate. If using a cream of any sort it must be reapplied every two hours. If you think your liquid make-up with added SPF is adequate, it’s not, especially if it’s less than 30, also must be reapplied every 2 hours while in the sun. Moisturize well with a targeted product for your skin type. When you cleanse at night use anything but a bar soap which is much too harsh for fragile skin. Treat your skin well for the best of your life. Karen Keady is a master esthetician and owner of Essentials Skincare in Sisters.
Seniors who are dealing with high cholesterol are often counseled to change their diet and look for alternative food choices to reduce their cholesterol levels. They may be able to do so without giving up their burgers. Alpaca meat is an alternative to beef — and it is catching on in the food world. “Alpaca meat is one of the healthiest and most flavorful meats in the world,” Sierra Meats reports. “It is described as a mild meat which takes on the flavor of the dish. It is slightly salty, tender and lean, high in protein with no fatty aftertaste. Alpaca meat also has the lowest level of cholesterol of any meat.” Art Izer and Nancy Chapel-Izer can testify to the qualities of alpaca meat — and not just because they own and operate an alpaca ranch in Sisters Country. “Art had a heart attack three years ago,” Nancy told The Nugget. He had high cholesterol, and required stents to open blockages. A cardiologist consulted with him on his diet. “They said, ‘You know, you’ve got the natural thing right there,’” Nancy recalled. “‘You should be eating alpaca meat because it’s so lean.’” Nancy and Art don’t
raise their alpacas at Alpaca Country Estates Ranch and Bed & Breakfast in Terrebonne specifically for their meat — but they do produce some meat through the process of culling. “We know it was grassfed, no hormones,” Nancy said. Art began eating alpaca instead of beef on a regular basis and, Nancy reports, within a year, his cholesterol had hit normal levels. “We have it a lot,” Nancy said. “We don’t buy beef now. We use it for spaghetti; we use it for hamburgers; we have a round steak we use for fajitas. Tonight we’re having a roast from the neck.” Much as is the case with game meat, preparation is key. “The flavor is wonderful,” Nancy said. “The big secret is, you can’t over-cook it. You can’t have it well-done.” Nancy is passionate about spreading the word about the qualities of alpaca meat. While the meat is similar to elk, some have some hesitancy because it comes from, well… alpacas. As with any “exotic” meat, it takes some adjusting to the idea. The couple sells alpaca meat commercially through the ranch, and also at Central Oregon Locavore in Bend. For more information, https://www.alpacacountry estates.com.
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Wednesday, September 18, 2019 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon Of a certain age
Seeking guidance to navigate aging By Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief
The adage that getting old isn’t for sissies is more than an amusing old saw. Good medical care, advanced technology and healthier lifestyles all make it possible to live longer and stay active deep into our senior years — but old age comes with some big challenges. A senior or a family caring for a senior will inevitably run up against a time when they need help. And it pays to be ready with a plan and a roadmap — before a crisis forces your hand. Bend Senior Care management provides a range of services that help families navigate the challenges of dealing with medical and financial systems to maximize quality of life and peace of mind in the sunset years. They offer everything from medical patient advocacy to assessment of financial picture to life-enrichment activity and socialization. “These people have done so much for our country,” said Jennifer Rogers, certified care manager with Bend Senior Care Management. “People are living so much longer, and they’re falling through the cracks of the system. We are their advocates.”
Rogers notes that it is much better to seek help when things are going relatively well. An aging care professional can do an assessment that covers medical and psychological needs and evaluate such questions as whether they have a trust and advance directive and who has power of attorney. That said, Rogers knows that many times Bend Senior Care Management is going to get the call when things are dire. “It’s so stressful to plan in a crisis situation, but it does happen,” she said. “The majority of times we are planning in a crisis situation.” Caring for an older parent who may need to move into assisted living is challenging under any circumstances and nearly overwhelming if family members live a distance away. The goal for Rogers is to preserve the elder’s dignity in a situation where they may feel that so many things are being taken away from them. “We try our best to let that person live with as much autonomy as possible,” Rogers said. Rogers noted that Bend Senior Care Management recently helped a family in the Sisters area where there were issues with a homecare provider who was taking financial advantage
How do you know you need an aging life care professional? When caregiving for an aging family member becomes overwhelming, it may be time to contact an aging life care professional. You may need such assistance if the person you are caring for: • Has multiple medical or psychological issues. • Is unable to live safely in their current environment. • Is not pleased with current care providers and requires advocacy. • Is confused about their financial or legal situation. • Has limited or no family support.
Or if your family: • H a s j u s t b e c o m e involved with helping the individual and needs direction about available services. • Is either “burned out” or confused about care solutions. • Has limited time and/ or expertise in dealing with the individual’s chronic-care needs and does not live close by. • Is at odds regarding care decisions. • Needs education and/ or direction in dealing with behaviors associated with dementia.
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of an elderly woman who lived alone locally. The relative with power of attorney lived elsewhere and sought help from Bend Senior Care Management. Bend Senior Care Management notified authorities to investigate the caregiver, activated a long-term care policy the family had in place and got the woman moved into assisted living. “About a month ago, we took her over to Eugene to the Hult Center to see the ‘Wicked’ production,” Rogers recalled. Sadly, the woman fell and her health declined severely. Bend Senior Care Management coordinated hospice care and the woman recently died. However, Rogers takes comfort in the knowledge that her last days were much better than they had been or might otherwise have been. “She went out with such a better quality of life,” she said. “She was happy at the end.” Such are the rewards that come with what can be a very challenging field. “You have to have a connection with seniors,” Rogers said. “Some people are kid people and some are senior people.” For herself, Rogers loves interacting with a generation of elders who contributed mightily to their world — and she is proud to act as their advocate.
Of a certain
AGE Sue Stafford Columnist
Solving the end-of-life puzzle I really enjoy doing jigsaw puzzles, studying the shapes, finding the ones with straight edges first, grouping by color, and seeing the image slowly emerge as one piece locks into another. When I find that elusive piece that holds an entire section together, I experience a small sense of accomplishment, which keeps me going until the whole puzzle is complete. The biggest puzzle I know, and the one that most people don’t want to take out of the box, is the one about the end of life. Death is a puzzle every single one of us will face, but most people will put off talking about it as long as possible. We can choose to address the unavoidable when we have plenty of time and all our faculties. If not, we, and
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especially our loved ones, will most likely face a chaotic, stressful situation when our time is up. When death comes for me, he won’t wait until I’ve pulled together my exit strategy. I’ll be gone, and the circumstances surrounding my death may not have been to my liking as far as where I met death — hospital, home, or somewhere else. The medical personnel may or may not have administered life-prolonging treatments that I did or did not want. I don’t want to be like the woman who, rather than leaving clear instructions and written documents, left a note for her family simply saying, “Sorry I left such a mess.” I don’t want that to be my last message to my loved ones. There is a plethora of helpful information out there, particularly since the advent of the Internet. Just go online and search “end of life.” There are enough websites and links related to the subject, it will seem like you just started a 5,000-piece puzzle that is round and all blue. Don’t give up. Help is available to assist getting your affairs in order. Before starting the process, take time to answer some important questions, the answers to which will help guide you in a number of decisions that will need to be made. What do I want the rest of my life to look like? What are my core values? Who am I as a person? What and See PUZZLE on page 23
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Of a certain age Wednesday, September 18, 2019 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon
Commentary...
What can you do? John Griffith Correspondent
I suspect that when many of us in Sisters Country read, listen to or watch the local and national news we often say rhetorically, out-loud or simply to ourselves, “Wow, something needs to be done. But what can I do?” . . . and then move on to the next article. I want to convince you that there IS something you can do. I would like you to take a chance, step out of your comfort zone, and take action. Harkening back to what became a bumper sticker slogan in the 1960s, “Think Globally – Act Locally.” Get involved: Give some of your time, energy, and accumulated knowledge to help your fellow Sisters Country residents have a better life. I’ve been in Sisters Country for more than a decade. It has been my experience that the residents of Sisters Country give far more freely of their time, money, and expertise than most typical rural or urban communities. I’ve personally given time and energy to a number of volunteer opportunities in Sisters Country, and for me, the personal rewards keep me coming back for more. Although the volunteer workforce of Sisters Country includes many very effective and vital volunteers under 50 years old, I am going to focus this discussion on those of my own demographic, the 50-plus group. Here are some reasons why: Recent research shows that 80 percent of adults say that making the world a better place for the next generation is an important priority. This same research found that the United States today possesses the fastest-growing, best-educated, and most vigorous population of older adults in the history of the world. Data shows that people are living longer and retiring earlier than ever before, and they are remaining more healthy and more active than previous generations. Sisters Country is the home to a large number of retirees — many of whom have left excellent careers early looking for a higher quality of life, and they arrive in Sisters Country with a great deal of quality time remaining (QTR). For this segment of Sisters Country, the challenge is how to make the best use of their QTR. Red Cross research found that 60 percent of the 50-plus
population who do not currently volunteer would consider doing so if asked, especially if the assignment would in some way use their accumulated talents. A historian friend of mine pointed out that the single most effective method used by leaders in the World War II French Resistance was not to ask for “volunteers” but to specifically ask someone to do a specific task that needed doing. When asked how they got involved, the most common reason why people volunteer is “Someone I know asked me!” Word of mouth from a trusted source was the key. Stanford research has shown that remaining physically, emotionally, and cognitively healthy adds more than seven years to our lives. So, your friends are asking, get involved, take action, check out your options to contribute today! What makes the 50-plus crowd so desirable as volunteers? They have the desire to make a difference, to utilize valuable life experiences and to pass on their legacy. Many are looking to develop new relationships with other mentors and mentees alike. Baby-boomers (76 million folks) have more time – they are either settled into their careers or retired early. Many have developed special and often useful skills to offer to their volunteer work. Per Habitat for Humanity data, 50-plus folks have staying power. They have fewer distractions from career and young families, giving them twice the retention rate of other volunteers. Fifty-plus folks have coped with a lot over the years and have learned resilience, which is a skill that can be passed on to those facing challenges at any age. So, what is keeping you from getting involved? Many potential volunteers feel that they do not have the skills or training to effectively volunteer or mentor. It has been my experience from working with at-risk youth that the most effective skill that you bring to your volunteer work is your life experience, and your willingness to simply show up, reliably, and regularly. Any special skills that you bring beyond that are the frosting. Others feel that they don’t have the time or cite transportation issues. But many of the volunteer positions in our community will allow you to work from home, and often on your schedule. In many cases, giving just four hours a week can make a huge
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND IN SISTERS Residents of Sisters Country that are interested in “taking action themselves” have a wide variety of options of where to best contribute their talent and their time. Below is a mere sampling of these options. Volunteer opportunities can be broken into a number of categories. Some like Sisters Folk Festival, Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show or Sisters Rodeo offer an opportunity to volunteer for a short, fixed, and predictable window of time. Others like YouthBuild or Circle of Friends are looking for a long-term commitment, but only at a few hours per week.
Some of the positions can be physically demanding, and others can be accomplished at home via phone or internet. Many simply involve driving. A number of the positions work with specific groups such as at-risk youth or seniors. Other have a broader or general “for the good of the community” charter. Volunteer positions such as Sisters City Council, Sisters Planning Commission, or the Sisters School Board require some political action and require a significant commitment of time.
Age Friendly Sisters Country https://agefriendlysisters.com/ American Cancer Society https://www.cancer.org/about-us/local/oregon.html Big Brothers, Big Sisters https://www.bbbsco.org/ CASA advocate https://www.casaofcentraloregon.org/ Central Oregon Council on Aging https://www.councilonaging.org/ Central Oregon Partnerships for Youth (COPY) https://sheriff.deschutes.org/jail/copy-program/ Circle of Friends https://circleoffriendsoregon.org/ Citizens4Community (C4C) http://citizens4community.com/ Kiwanis Food Bank https://sisterskiwanis.org/ Sisters City Council https://www.ci.sisters.or.us/bc-citycouncil Sisters Habitat for Humanity https://www.sistershabitat.org/ Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show https://sistersoutdoorquiltshow.org/ Sisters School Board http://ssd6.org/schoolboard/ Sisters Science Club http://www.sistersscienceclub.org/ Sisters Festival of Books https://www.paulinaspringsbooks.com/aboutthefestival Sisters Folk Festival https://sistersfolkfestival.org/ Volunteer Central Oregon (listing) http://www.volunteercentraloregon.org/ YouthBuild https://heartoforegon.org/programs/youthbuild.html Youth Sports, SPRD https://sistersrecreation.com/ difference in the trajectory of another person’s life. As a volunteer, what do you get for your efforts? Volunteering expands your network — reduces the feeling of isolation. Engaged people report feeling happier and more satisfied with their lives. From my own experience, and often despite my skepticism, I have seen the contribution of volunteers make huge positive changes in a life, young or old — and then there are those extra seven years that you get to spend around your own family. See the accompanying sidebar for a sampling of the types of volunteer opportunities available to you right now.
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Wednesday, September 18, 2019 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon Of a certain age
Navigating the Medicare maze By Jim Cornelius Editor in Chief
You’re approaching 65 — the age at which you’re eligible for Medicare. And things are about to get complicated. “They’re going to get mail like they’ve never seen before,” said Linda Alldredge of Country Financial, who helps Sisters seniors navigate the labyrinth that is Medicare coverage. A A R P ’s M e d i c a r e Resource Center page gives a glimpse at how complicated things can get: “You can enroll in Part B without buying Part A, if you want to. But if you buy into A, you also must enroll in B. You can get Part D if you’re enrolled in either A or B. You cannot enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan (such as an HMO or PPO) or buy a Medigap supplemental insurance policy unless you’re enrolled in both A and B.” So how do you figure out what you should buy and what you don’t need? Alldredge encourages seniors to start looking into Medicare coverage several months before a decision is required. And get some guidance if you’re not clear. “I help them understand
the decision tree,” she said. “Once you understand the literature you’re getting … at least you have perspective. Spend the time; understand how it works. I know it’s boring as all getout, but it’s important because you don’t want to go down the wrong path and regret it. Don’t rush into enrollment till you really understand it.” Making the right decision on what plan to enroll in the first time is important, because switching plans can be complicated and difficult. And there may be programs available to you that you don’t know about. Identify your needs and seek the plan that fits you best. Alldredge emphasizes that there should be no embarrassment about seeking help to navigate the maze. “Smart people have a hard time with this one,” she said. “Doctors don’t understand Medicare sometimes.” That’s why it’s important to give yourself plenty of onramp before it’s time to choose. Study and good guidance will pay off. “At some point, you will develop a trust in your own navigation,” Alldredge said. “don’t make a decision till you’re there.”
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who is important to me? What are my definitions of a “good quality of life” and a “good death?” Once there is clarity around the answers to those questions, the job of putting your affairs in order will honor those things that are most important to you. You are leaving a final gift for those who will be with you as you approach death, as well as afterwards. They won’t have to guess what kind of care you want as your life comes to a close. They will have a clear road map of where all your documents are, what you want done and not done and where, and who should be notified. The more you do beforehand, the less work you are leaving for your loved ones. They will, instead, be able to grieve your death in peace.
By pulling these important documents together and leaving important details in one place – email passwords, financial and insurance information, etc. – you are getting your house in order for the good of those you care about most. A more recent development in end-of-life planning is the appearance of websites offering similar services, all done digitally, for which an annual fee is charged. As life circumstances change, information can be added, deleted, or modified so it is always current. Other people chosen by you can be granted access to any or all of the sections, so even if an adult child lives elsewhere, he can access necessary information to handle your affairs. There are a number of books and workbooks available online to guide you through organizing your life and having a written record
of all the important information. AARP produces a book called “Checklist for My Family,” available on Amazon, that helps document everything. With 8,000 baby-boomers a day turning 65, more and more services are being made available to assist them with their desires for end-of-life. Planning for the end of life involves much more than just making a will or prepaying for funeral arrangements. Among topics to be considered are: downsizing; caregiving; wills, trusts and ethical wills; financial planning; advance directives, POLST forms, organ donation; death with dignity; hospice and palliative care; funerals, green burials; obituaries; and what needs to done after a death. When you have crafted a useful and thoughtful end-oflife plan, you are free to enjoy the rest of your life, knowing your puzzle is complete.
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Of a certain age Wednesday, September 18, 2019 The Nugget Newspaper, Sisters, Oregon
HOSPICE: Services enhance quality of life in last days Continued from page 3
families anything,” Krebs noted. Services are funded through grants and generous community donations. The spiritual aspect of the program is provided through the service of Chaplain Dan Henderson, who often sits with hospice patients and will pray with them if desired. Krebs notes that the chaplain’s services are not mandated. “Some of our patients decide they do not wish to see a chaplain, and we honor their wishes,” she said. All of Hospice of Redmond’s work is “very individualized and very personal,” Krebs said. “Everything we do is in the home — wherever their home is.” Krebs points with particular pride to Hospice of Redmond’s veterans outreach programs. Through the national program We Honor Veterans, Hospice of Redmond conducts simple “pinning ceremonies” to express gratitude and appreciation for veterans’ service to their country. Krebs, herself a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, considers these expressions
of appreciation to be very important in helping veterans find peace. “It’s the simplest thing we can do — just go out and say ‘thank you,’” she said. Krebs and Hospice of Redmond’s volunteer veteran advocate work with families on service-connected disabilities through the Department of Veterans Affairs, resources in the community, flag lines for funeral services, flag-pinning ceremonies for hospice patients, survivorship support, and provide myriad other resources. Krebs also pointed to the organization’s Transitions Program, which is a pre-hospice program. “It’s for anyone who has a life-limiting illness,” she said. “It’s a non-medical program, so it’s really about resources.” Transitions Program participants, who are not charged for services, also receive emotional and spiritual support as desired, as staff helps connect them with resources
that can make their life coping with their condition easier and more satisfying. The program can also connect families with respite care. Krebs noted that the program was able to help a blind veteran to the degree that he was able to obtain surgery that restored vision. That’s the kind of work that motivates Krebs and her colleagues.
That’s what we pride ourselves in, taking care of these people. — Maureen Krebs “That’s what we pride ourselves in,” she said. “Taking care of these people.” For more information visit www.hospiceofredmond.org.
PHOTO BY MAUREEN KREBS
William ‘Bill’ Sexton, who served 32 years in three branches of service (US Marine Corps, US Army Air Corps and Air Force) starting in World War II. He was honored in a Hospice We Honor Veterans pinning ceremony.
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A N N O U N C E M E N T S ESPECIALLY FOR SENIORS HEALTH Free Medicare 101 Class
Three Sisters Insurance and Regence are collaborating to present the free Medicare 101 Class. Learn the basics of Medicare and what you need to consider before making your healthcare choices. Attend this free, educational workshop Thursday, September 19, at 4:30 p.m. in the Sisters Library. Pre-registration is not necessary, all are welcome. Please contact Breeze at 541-549-6115 with questions or e-mail breeze@3sistersinsure.com.
Senior Health Fair
Sisters Park and Recreation District is partnering with Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire and Council on Aging of Central Oregon to present a free Senior Health Fair for the Sisters Community. The fair will be held at Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire Community Hall from 3 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, October 10. Call 541-549-2091 for more information.
Fall Prevention Awareness Day
Learn about local programs to reduce fall injuries, which are the leading cause of medical responses for the Sisters-Camp Sherman RFPD. Tai Chi demonstrations, blood pressure checks, prescription medication reviews, information on local classes, and educational handouts will be available. Monday, September 23 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District Community Hall. Call 541729-5791 for more information.
Injury Prevention Seminar
Step & Spine is holding an open house and seminar with expert tips for injury prevention at their Eagle Crest facility on Wednesday, September 25. The open house runs from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. and the seminar is 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Limited seating; register at https://eagle-crestinjury-prevention.eventbrite.com. Call 541-527-4353 for more information.
Tai Chi/Balance Sessions
Free Tai Chi/Balance Classes based on the CDC “Steadi” Program to reduce injuries and falls in our community are being sponsored by Sisters Drug. Taught by Shannon Rackowski every Thursday from 11 to 11:30 a.m. (except holidays) at the SPRD Fitness Room. Open to all ages. For info: 541-549-6221.
Balance Class in Camp Sherman
This 8-week evidence-based community workshop will teach practical coping strategies to reduce the fear of falling. Cost is $10. Class begins Wednesday, September 25 and will be held at the Camp Sherman Community Hall, located at 13025 SW Camp Sherman Rd. Contact Shannon to register at 541-272-0529 or shanrack@gmail.com.
Healthy Living Info for Seniors
Seniors and caregivers are invited to drop by the SAGE room at SPRD on the second Monday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. to meet local service providers and gather free information about aging in place from foot care to end-of-life planning. Information at 541-588-0081.
ENTERTAINMENT & FOOD Passport Dinner Series
The Lodge in Sisters is offering a dinner series on the second Wednesday of each month at 3 p.m. Visitors can enjoy a demo of tasty international food, play trivia and win prizes. Visitors may earn credit toward residency at the Lodge. Coming dates are Wednesday, October 9, with German food and Wednesday, November 13, with a sample of Mexican cuisine. Free to everyone, invite a friend! Call 541-549-5634 for more information.
Burnin’ Moonlight
The Lodge in Sisters invites the public to hear Burnin’ Moonlight, a spirited Bluegrass, Blues and Swing trio on Thursday, September 26 from 6 to 8 p.m. Call 541-549-5634 for more information and to RSVP.
Senior Luncheons & More
Adults age 60 and older are invited to join the Council on Aging Senior Luncheon, served every Tuesday at Sisters Community Church. Coffee and various fun activities begin at 11 a.m. with lunch served at noon. Bingo is played after lunch until 2:30 p.m. Info: 541-480-1843.
VETERANS Veterans Meetings
The Sisters VFW Post 8138 and American Legion Post 86 meeting at Sisters City Hall at 6:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month. All veterans in the area are encouraged to join! Info: 541-903-1123.
See ad Announditional ce on page ments 12.
Veterans Luncheon
Join Hospice of Redmond & the Redmond Senior Center at a lunch honoring area veterans on the third Wednesday of each month at noon. First luncheon is Wednesday, September 18. Lunches are held at the Senior Center of Redmond, 325 NW Dogwood Ave. Veterans eat free, suggested dontion of $4 for those over 60. Under 60 costs $5. Info: 541-548-6325.
COMMUNITY LEARNING A Toolkit for Successful Aging
Fall Community Learning workshops led by OSU-Cascades faculty and staff include classes for seniors. A Toolkit for Successful Aging explores aging from biological, social and cultural perspectives. Attendees will learn the importance of developing and maintaining healthy social, exercise and nutritional habits. Classes are held on Tuesdays, September 24, October 8 & 22 and November 5 from 5:30 to 7:45. p.m. Register at https:// osucascades.edu/community-learning.
Solving Your Retirement Puzzle
Fall Community Learning workshops led by OSU-Cascades faculty and staff include classes for seniors. Solving Your Retirement Puzzle will answer questions about financial planning and budgeting in retirement as well as how to invest your new resource — time — when there is no clock or office commitment. Classes are held on Tuesdays, September 24, October 1, 8 & 15 from 5:30 to 7:45. p.m. Register at https://osucascades.edu/ community-learning.