50plus LIFE York County December 2018

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Complimentary | York County Edition

December 2018 • Vol. 19 No. 12

Astronomy on the Susquehanna page 4

special focus: orthopedics & pain

page 14

grief doesn’t take a holiday

page 19


Dessert on the Ceiling (and Other Kooky Christmas Traditions)

March 26, 2019 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Wyndham Hotel York 2000 Loucks Road, York

This event is FREE to attend. Veterans (of all ages) and the military community and their families are invited to join us!

The Expo brings federal, state, and local agencies together with area businesses to provide information and resources to veterans and their families.

The Job Fair brings veterans and spouses who need jobs together with employers who can benefit from this rich source of talent to aid their organizations.

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Veterans Benefits & Services Medical/Nonmedical Resources Products and Services Available Support/Assistance Programs Education/Training Services

At the Job Fair

Employers Job Counseling Workshops Employment Seminars Resume Writing Assistance Hosted by:

Sponsor & Exhibitor Opportunities Available

www.veteransexpo.com (717) 285-1350 www.olpevents.com

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December 2018

50plus LIFE t

By Randal C. Hill

Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant.

More than 160 countries around the world celebrate Christmas. Overseas and elsewhere, some holiday traditions may seem wonderfully weird — and maybe even a bit bizarre. For some chuckles, let’s check out the yearly happenings in:

Greenland: Folks relish holiday treats of mattak (whale skin with a strip of blubber inside) and kiviak, the raw flesh of auks (a type of Arctic bird) that has been buried whole in sealskin for seven months until it has reached a certain level of decomposition. (Seconds, anyone?)

Slovakia: During Christmas Eve dinner, the oldest male resident tosses a spoonful of loksa pudding (a mixture of sweetened poppy seeds, bread, and water) onto the ceiling — the more that sticks, the better his crops or business will do during the next year. Guatemala: Each neighborhood sweeps dirt into one large pile and then plants an effigy of the devil on top before setting it on fire. England: The idea of kissing under the mistletoe began here. Refusing a smooch was said to bring bad luck, and one tradition required that, with each kiss, the participants pluck a berry from the mistletoe bunch. New Zealand: Summertime Santa often appears in “jandals” (New Zealand sandals) and an All Blacks (their national rugby team) shirt. Kids leave beer and pineapple chunks for Mr. Claus and carrots for his reindeer. Venezuela: Caracas streets close to all traffic when Christmas Eve arrives. This is a safety measure as many city dwellers roller-skate — nobody seems to know why — to late-night Mass. Norway: All brooms are hidden in order to keep witches from finding them and riding off into the Christmas Eve night. Men also fire their guns into the evening sky. Japan: Since 1974 the power of persuasive American advertising has established a newer tradition: enjoying a Christmas Day feast at the nearest

Wales: Some villages in South Wales celebrate Mari Lwyd, a wassailing folk custom in which a local man parades through the streets, his identity hidden under a sackcloth while bearing a horse’s skull on the end of a stick. Germany: Each Dec. 5, German children leave a shoe outside the house. Well-behaved kiddies awake to find the shoe stuffed with sweets. Those behaving otherwise are likely to find a tree branch instead. Canada: There’s an actual postal code used in Canada to send letters to the North Pole: HOHOHO. All the letters received, even those in Braille, are answered by thousands of volunteers who donate their time every year. Czech Republic: Some folks fast on Christmas Eve in the hope that they will visualize a golden pig — a sign of good luck — appearing on a wall before dinner. South Africa: After residents enjoy a traditional Christmas Day meal, they eagerly tuck into after-dinner treats of plump, fuzzy caterpillars that have been fried in oil. Final thought: Doesn’t it make you wonder how some of our own Christmas traditions might seem strange to others, as well? Randal C. Hill can be reached at wryterhill@msn.com.

www.50plusLifePA.com


Art & Antiques by Dr. Lori

Lori Verderame

Senior Real Estate Specialist

The Market for Christmas Collectibles

Many of us popular ornaments will be displaying are those made after our collection World War II and of Christmas represent everything collectibles — both from astronauts to old and new — this zebras. holiday season. While seasoned Personally, I am collectors are going to display looking for kugels a new holiday and other glasscollectible, this blown figural Byers Choice Ltd. ornaments from caroler in my Germany, new likeness, which I collectors are expect will become especially interested a cherished holiday in vintage pieces Dr. Lori Byers Choice Caroler collectible for my made in America by Byers Choice Ltd. family as time goes in the 1940s to the by. 1970s. I have many of these popular, handmade caroler figures made Holiday Villages near my home in Bucks County, Famous miniature holiday village Pennsylvania. Annually, they make “architectural firms,” such as the their way onto windowsills, shelves, McLoughlin Brothers and Built-Rite and holiday tables as seasonal Toys firms, sold miniature holiday decorations. town-and-village displays in the early While this is the time to revisit 1900s. A Sears & Roebuck miniature Christmas collectibles, it is also the Christmas village would have cost best time to sell off these items. only 69 cents in the mid-1930s. The values for your Christmas After World War II, Bachmann collectibles are high right now, and if Brothers introduced the Plasticville you are a seller, you can help drive up line of miniature buildings to the market prices by offering objects accompany model train setups. for sale that are seasonally themed for These miniature Christmas villages Christmas and in good shape. command high prices today at auction Here are some of the popular please see COLLECTIBLES page 12 holiday antiques and collectibles. Ornaments Antique ornaments, produced from circa 1880 to 1940, are highly collectible. Since some of the most beautiful and handmade ornaments were made in that period of hand-blown glass, these ornaments are very difficult to find. So, if you discover one entangled in the garland, hold onto it. One antique ornament may be valued at $100 or more at Christmastime. Starting your own holiday ornament collection will cost you a pretty penny. Some of the most www.50plusLifePA.com

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Community Outreach of Homeland Center 50plus LIFE t

| Harrisburg, PA December 2018

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Cover Story

Astronomy on the Susquehanna Corporate Office

3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512 Phone 717.285.1350 • Fax 717.285.1360 Chester County: 610.675.6240 Cumberland County/Dauphin County: 717.770.0140 Berks County/Lancaster County/ Lebanon County/York County: 717.285.1350 E-mail address: info@onlinepub.com Website address: www.onlinepub.com

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EDITORIAL

Vice President and Managing Editor Christianne Rupp Editor, 50plus Publications Megan Joyce

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50plus LIFE is published by On-Line Publishers, Inc. and is distributed monthly among senior centers, retirement communities, banks, grocers, libraries and other outlets serving the senior community. On-Line Publishers, Inc. will not knowingly accept or publish advertising which may be fraudulent or misleading in nature. Views expressed in opinion stories, contributions, articles and letters are not necessarily the views of the publisher. The appearance of advertisements for products or services does not constitute an endorsement of the particular product or service. The publisher will not be responsible for mistakes in advertisements unless notified within five days of publication. On-Line Publishers, Inc. reserves the right to revise or reject any and all advertising. No part of this publication may be reproduced or reprinted without permission of On-Line Publishers, Inc. We will not knowingly publish any advertisement or information not in compliance with the Federal Fair Housing Act, Pennsylvania State laws or other local laws.

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December 2018

50plus LIFE t

By Robert Naeye

Ryan went off to college at the University of Chicago, graduating in June 1972. In December 1976 he earned a law degree from the University of We live in a modern age awash in light. It’s inside Florida. For many years he practiced law in Chicago, our homes, on our streets, and on our computer eventually becoming screens. the chief environmental For amateur astronomers, attorney for the state of light is the bane of their Illinois. existence. It washes out the After changing jobs faint light of distant stars, several times, he ran his an environmental blight own law firm in Chicago known as “light pollution.” for eight years. His From a populated urban wife, Barbara, who is area, you can see a few originally from Harrisburg, dozen to a few hundred encouraged him to look stars at night. But venture for a job that would offer out into a remote area far steadier income. away from city lights, and Ryan ended up taking you can see thousands of Photo credit: Robert Naeye a position with the stars speckling the sky from Ryan, left, board member of the Philadelphia Electric Rittenhouse Astronomical Society, horizon to horizon. with Ted Williams, RAS president, Company in 1998, which With large cities such as outside the Muddy Run Observatory. later merged with a utility Philadelphia, Lancaster, and in Chicago to form Exelon. Harrisburg, southeastern As he was moving Pennsylvania is not exactly around, Ryan was raising a haven for astronomical two daughters. The observatories. younger of the two, Layla, This posed a challenge developed a strong interest to the Exelon Corporation, in astronomy. She majored whose top executives in astrophysics at the decided several years ago University of Illinois. to construct an observatory Ryan credits her with as a vehicle for inspiring rekindling his childhood students to pursue careers in interest in astronomy. He science and engineering. Photo credit: Robert Naeye built and bought telescopes, But with the help of Williams adjusts the Celestron telescope each scope larger than amateur astronomer Al inside one of the observatory’s two towers. the previous one. He later Ryan, also the company’s constructed an observatory assistant general counsel, in the backyard of his house Exelon found a good site on in Glenside, Pennsylvania. its own land: Muddy Run Al and Layla frequently Recreation Park, about 15 visited Exelon’s Muddy Run miles south of Lancaster Recreation Park. Layla once along the Susquehanna mentioned that a helicopter River. landing pad inside the park The Muddy Run would be a great place to Observatory is now hosting build an observatory. public events that draw “At the time, I didn’t hundreds of people. really think much of it,” Ryan, who spearheaded Photo credit: Robert Naeye On the observatory’s outdoor projection says Ryan. the effort to build the screen, speakers can show their photos and Tragically, Layla passed Muddy Run Observatory, telescope images to the public. away from a long-term grew up in Florida, not far illness in 2006 at age 24. To from Cape Canaveral. As a honor Layla, her parents established a scholarship for child, he built telescopes and watched NASA launch astronomy students at the University of Illinois. rockets into space, which inspired a lifelong interest As Exelon started toying around with the idea of in astronomy. www.50plusLifePA.com


building a public observatory, it turned to Ryan to advise the company on where to build it and what equipment to include. Ryan recalled his daughter’s idea of building an observatory on the Muddy Run helipad. To test this idea, he partnered with local amateur astronomers to hold a stargazing event at the site in 2015. “Even though there were thunderstorms, we had a huge turnout, which surprised company management. We had 100-125 people on a stormy, cloudy night. People didn’t realize that we have enough interest in the region, so we made it an annual event,” recalls Ryan. The next year’s stargaze drew an even larger crowd — and that’s when the whole idea blossomed to build the observatory at Muddy Run. Besides the helipad, the park had a visitor center, facilities for handicapped people, and parking spaces for hundreds of cars. The night sky is dark enough so you can see around a thousand stars on a clear, moonless night. And yet it’s close enough to major population centers that public events draw large crowds. Exelon based the observatory’s landscaping on a design created by Ryan’s wife Barbara, while Ryan decided on two large amateur telescopes, one built by Celestron and the other by PlaneWave. Construction began in 2016, and the doors opened to the public in October 2017. The Rittenhouse Astronomical Society of Philadelphia is the primary amateur organization that runs the observatory. Ryan is a member of its board of directors, making him the perfect liaison between company and club. RAS president Ted Williams says his group was involved in the project from the very beginning, calling the observatory “the perfect merger for an astronomy club that was trapped in Philadelphia that wanted a darker site.” But Williams is quick to add that running the observatory is a team effort. The Astronomy Enthusiasts of Lancaster County and the Harford County Astronomical Society in Maryland play important supporting roles, providing telescopes and educators. www.50plusLifePA.com

Muddy Run hosts a monthly open house for the public, where people can come to stargaze using the observatory’s two telescopes and additional portable scopes brought by amateurs. These events include talks by scientists and amateurs and workshops in astrophotography. Exelon modified the visitor center to include an astronomy section, comprising a hallway of astronomical photos and models to help educate the public about space science. The visitor center also has several classrooms. The observatory itself has a giant outdoor projection screen, where speakers can show their photos and where telescope images can be displayed to the public. The observatory has already attracted significant interest from local companies, libraries, and schools. Ryan says that Exelon hopes that Muddy Run will serve as an inspiring example for what corporations can do to reach out to their communities. There’s even talk about adding more telescopes and a planetarium to bolster education programs. Astronomy is one of the few remaining fields of science where amateurs can play important roles in cutting-edge research. Using the observatory’s two telescopes, club members will soon be studying stars that vary in brightness, asteroids that pass in front of stars, and planets in other systems that pass in front of their host stars. “We’re really proud of the facility,” Ryan says. “But we’re even more ecstatic about all the possibilities available to us for extending our vision to the community, enlightening minds, and inspiring others.” The observatory’s next free open house is Saturday, Dec. 15. Call (717) 284-5850 or visit www.facebook. com/muddyrunobservatory or www. muddyrunobservatory.com for more information.

On the cover: To further his and his daughter’s shared interest in astronomy, Al Ryan, here beside the Celestron telescope inside the Muddy Run Observatory, once built an observatory in their backyard. Now, Ryan heads a combined team of amateur astronomers instrumental in the development and operation of the observatory.

50plus LIFE just earned 2 Media Awards! 1st Place Profile “Doing the Heart’s Work’” by Megan Joyce

2nd Place

Annual Resource Guide or Directory

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December 2018

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On Life and Love after 50

Tom Blake

What Should Unwed, Age 50+ Couples Call Themselves? Frequently, tablemates ask, “How long have you two been married?” Greta and I look at each other and one of us responds, “We’ve been together for 20 years.” Most couples accept that answer, thinking we’re married. It’s easier to leave it that way than try to explain that we are “significant others” or “life partners” or whatever we are calling ourselves at that moment. When Greta and I would visit my mom in her retirement community a few years back and we were out socially with Mom’s friends, Mom would introduce Greta by saying, “This is Tom’s Greta.” That was her way of saying we were living together and not married, which she probably wasn’t entirely thrilled about. In his email, Mark added, “Donna and I are a LAT (living apart together) couple. She is 69, still working. I’m 71, retired, and live a few miles away. We go back and forth between the two cities a lot.” Our friend Wally is 84 and Bobbi is 75. They are both Photo credit to Tom Blake. retired and have been together for almost 30 years. When Tom calls Greta his “significant other.” we were talking about what to call ourselves, I floated an idea I’ve had for some time: “semispouse.” It received a favorable response from our foursome. It isn’t perfect, but it “MEMORY MUSIC” seems to have qualities the other labels lack. At first, I thought the semispouse term a little bizarre, visualizing a semitruck driver with his wife riding with him in the cab. I looked up the term on the Urban Dictionary website. Its definition: “A significant other that plays the role of a spouse without being legally married.” And then I decided, when written, the term semispouse would look better with a hyphen inserted: semi-spouse. While semi-spouse for unwed, age 50+ couples will work for now, still, I’m all ears to hear suggestions from readers for what to call mature, unwed couples. Just don’t call us, “Two old fogies living together.”

In the 24 years of writing newspaper columns about age 50+ dating and relationships, there is a question for which I’ve never had a good answer. Until now. Perhaps. The question: What do unwed, age 50+ couples call themselves? I was reminded of that question by Mark, who emailed: “Donna and I have been together for eight and a half years. We were having lunch with Wally Horn and his partner of 30 years, Bobbi, and this question arose: ‘What do we call ourselves? Partners? Companions? Significant others? Boyfriend/girlfriend?’” I can relate to Mark’s question. My partner, Greta, and I have been together for 20 years. We aren’t married. I still find myself wondering how to introduce her. Often, “life partner” comes to mind. It’s an OK term, but I still get a puzzled look from people who seem to be wondering what the heck a life partner is, or they think it’s a lame explanation for why we aren’t married. Greta and I enjoy taking cruises. We always opt for open seating in the dining room, which means we are usually seated with different people every night.

Tom & Randi LaNasa

Attention: RETIREMENT HOMES, CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS. Looking for entertainment?

We are currently booking our 2018 Christmas Show for holiday parties. We are also booking our variety and specialty shows for 2019. We have many variety shows featuring the music from the 1930s to the 60s. Songs by legendary artists like Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Doris Day, Kay Starr, Dean Martin, Patsy Cline, and the Mills Brothers. Specialty shows include …

Songs from the WWII Years • The Post WWII Years: 1945 – 1955 AMERICA: From Sea to Shining Sea Salute to the Rat Pack (or if you prefer, just Sinatra) Elvis & Patsy • Classic Country • Christmas Please contact Memory Music to book your next event!

Phone: (717) 846-6126 6

December 2018

E-mail: memrymusic@aol.com 50plus LIFE t

For dating information, previous articles, or to sign up for Tom’s complimentary, weekly e-newsletter, go to www.FindingLoveAfter50.com.

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           

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​Conference Focuses on Alcohol, Opioid Addiction in Older Adults Pennsylvania Department of Aging Secretary Teresa Osborne recently attended and spoke at the Phoebe Institute on Aging’s Fall Conference, “Understanding Addiction and Older Adults,” at DeSales University. The conference explored both the trend of addiction in older adults and insights into treatment modalities to offer hope in a time of crisis. “Older Pennsylvanians may be a minority among those seeking treatment for substance abuse, yet alcohol and drug problems, in particular prescription drug abuse, among older adults is one of the fastest-growing health problems facing the country,” said Osborne. Today, 2.5 million older adults have an alcohol or drug problem. Widowers over the age of 75 have the highest rate of alcoholism in the U.S., and older adults are hospitalized as often for alcohol-related problems as they are for heart attacks. Nevertheless, addiction in older adults can be difficult to detect, as warning signs mimic insomnia, forgetfulness, and other common, age-related health issues. Growing older brings on many changes in health, lifestyle, family

obligations, work roles, and sources of support. It can also bring physical pain, stress, loneliness, and loss of mobility. The very real difficulties of aging can become overwhelming and drive seniors toward an unhealthy reliance on alcohol or drugs. In other cases, a preexisting addiction may worsen over the years. The state’s opioid disaster declaration, initiated earlier this year by Gov. Wolf, expands access to evidence-based, medication-assisted treatment to help Pennsylvanians who suffer from the disease of addiction and ensure they have access to the care they need. Pennsylvanians looking for information on treatment for themselves or a loved one can call (800) 662-HELP (4357) toll-free, 24/7, to be connected to resources in their community. A live chat option is also available online or via text message at (717) 216-0905 for those seeking help who may not be comfortable speaking to a helpline operator. To learn more about the opioid epidemic and addiction treatment, visit www.pa.gov/opioids.

At Your Fingertips Helpful numbers, hotlines, and local businesses and organizations eager to serve you—all just a phone call away. Animal Hospitals Community Animal Hospital Donald A. Sloat, D.V.M. 400 S. Pine St., York (717) 845-5669

Health & Medical Services Alzheimer’s Association (717) 651-5020

Automobile Sales/Service Gordon’s Body Shop, Inc. 10 Mill St., Stewartstown (717) 993-2263

American Diabetes Association (800) 342-2383

Coins & Currency Steinmetz Coins & Currency 2861 E. Prospect Road, York (717) 757-6980 Energy Assistance Low-Income Energy Assistance (717) 787-8750 Entertainment Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre 510 Centerville Road, Lancaster (717) 898-1900 Funeral & Cremation Services Cremation Society of Pennsylvania Serving York County (800) 720-8221 www.50plusLifePA.com

Alzheimer’s Information Clearinghouse (800) 367-5115

CONTACT Helpline (717) 652-4400 The National Kidney Foundation (800) 697-7007 or (717) 757-0604 Social Security Information (800) 772-1213 Healthcare Information Pennsylvania HealthCare Cost Containment (717) 232-6787 Hearing Services Pennsylvania Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (800) 233-3008 V/TTY Home Care Services Homeland at Home Serving all of York County (717) 221-7892

Visiting Angels Living Assistance Services Hanover: (717) 630-0067 Lancaster: (717) 393-3450 York: (717) 751-2488

Pharmacies CVS/pharmacy www.cvs.com

Hospice Services Homeland at Home Serving all of York County (717) 221-7890

real estate Berkshire Hathaway Paula Musselman (717) 793-9678 (Office) (717) 309-6921 (Cell)

Housing Assistance Housing Authority of York (717) 845-2601

Services York County Area Agency on Aging (717) 771-9610

Property Tax/Rent Rebate (888) 728-2937

Veterans Services Lebanon VA Medical Center 1700 S. Lincoln Ave., Lebanon (717) 228-6000 or (800) 409-8771

Insurance Medicare (800) 633-4227

Volunteer opportunities RSVP of the Capital Region (443) 619-3842

Vibra Health Plan (844) 660-2961 (TTY: 711) Insurance – Long-Term Care Apprise Insurance Counseling (717) 771-9610 or (800) 632-9073

50plus LIFE t

Not an all-inclusive list of advertisers in your area.

December 2018

7


Assisted Living Residences/Personal Care Homes The listings with a shaded background have additional information about their center in a display advertisement in this edition.

Bethany Village — MapleWood

325 Wesley Drive • Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 717-766-0279 • www.BethanyVillage.org Total AL and/or PC Beds: 100 Assisted Living Residence: Yes Personal Care Home: No Private: 100 Private Pay: Yes SSI Accepted: No Short-term Lease: Yes Entrance Fee/Security Deposit: Yes Outdoor Areas/Fitness Center: Yes Medication Management: Yes On-call Medical Service: Yes Health Fee-for-Service Available: Yes

Alzheimer’s Care: Yes Respite Care: Yes Social Programs: Yes Housekeeping/Laundry Service: Yes Transportation (Scheduled): Yes Personal Car Permitted: Yes Pets Permitted: Yes Comments: One-bedroom suites; secured memory support neighborhood; skilled nursing – The Oaks.

Colonial Lodge Community

2015 North Reading Road • Denver, PA 17519 717-336-5501 • www.coloniallodgepa.com Total AL and/or PC Beds: 70 Assisted Living Residence: No Personal Care Home: Yes Private: Yes Semi-private: Yes Private Pay: Yes SSI Accepted: Yes Short-term Lease: No Entrance Fee/Security Deposit: No Part/Totally Refundable: No Outdoor Areas/Fitness Center: Yes Medication Management: Yes On-call Medical Service: Yes

Health Fee-for-Service Available: No Alzheimer’s Care: No Respite Care: Yes Social Programs: Yes Housekeeping/Laundry Service: Yes Transportation (Scheduled): Yes Personal Car Permitted: Yes Pets Permitted: No Comments: A veteran-approved “home for heroes” facility, all in a beautiful, rural setting. Respite services available as space permits.

Homeland Center

1901 North Fifth Street • Harrisburg, PA 17102 717-221-7727 • www.homelandcenter.org Total AL and/or PC Beds: 56 Assisted Living Residence: No Personal Care Home: Yes Private: Yes Private Pay: Yes SSI Accepted: No Short-term Lease: No Entrance Fee/Security Deposit: No Part/Totally Refundable: No Outdoor Areas: Yes Medication Management: Yes On-call Medical Service: Yes Health Fee-for-Service Available: Yes

Homewood at Plum Creek

425 Westminster Avenue • Hanover, PA 17331 717-637-4166 • www.homewood.com Total AL and/or PC Beds: 92 Assisted Living Residence: No Personal Care Home: Yes Private: Yes Semi-private: No Private Pay: Yes SSI Accepted: No Short-term Lease: Yes Entrance Fee/Security Deposit: No Part/Totally Refundable: No Outdoor Areas/Fitness Center: Yes Medication Management: Yes On-call Medical Service: Yes

Harrison House of Chester County

Landis Homes

Total AL and/or PC Beds: 80 Assisted Living Residence: No Personal Care Home: Yes Private: Yes Semi-private: No Private Pay: Yes SSI Accepted: No Short-term Lease: Yes Entrance Fee/Security Deposit: Yes Part/Totally Refundable: No Outdoor Areas/Fitness Center: Yes Medication Management: Yes On-call Medical Service: Yes

Total AL and/or PC Beds: 97 Assisted Living Residence: No Personal Care Home: Yes Private: Yes Semi-private: No Private Pay: Yes SSI Accepted: No Short-term Lease: Yes Entrance Fee/Security Deposit: No Part/Totally Refundable: No Outdoor Areas/Fitness Center: Yes Medication Management: Yes On-call Medical Service: Yes

300 Strode Avenue • Coatesville, PA 19320 610-384-6310 • www.harrisonseniorliving.com Health Fee-for-Service Available: Yes Alzheimer’s Care: No Respite Care: Yes Social Programs: Yes Housekeeping/Laundry Service: Yes Transportation (Scheduled): Yes Personal Car Permitted: Yes Pets Permitted: Yes Comments: Located in western Chester County, Harrison House provides an array of amenities with nursing care.

Mennonite Home Communities

Total AL and/or PC Beds: 114 Assisted Living Residence: No Personal Care Home: Yes Private: Yes Semi-private: Yes Private Pay: Yes SSI Accepted: No Short-term Lease: Yes Entrance Fee/Security Deposit: Yes Part/Totally Refundable: No Outdoor Areas/Fitness Center: Yes Medication Management: Yes On-call Medical Service: Yes

Total AL and/or PC Beds: 150 Assisted Living Residence: No Personal Care Home: Yes Private: Yes Semi-private: Yes Private Pay: Yes SSI Accepted: Yes Short-term Lease: No Entrance Fee/Security Deposit: No Part/Totally Refundable: No Outdoor Areas/Fitness Center: Yes Medication Management: Yes On-call Medical Service: Yes

Health Fee-for-Service Available: No Alzheimer’s Care: Yes Respite Care: Yes Social Programs: Yes Housekeeping/Laundry Service: Yes Transportation (Scheduled): Yes Personal Car Permitted: Yes Pets Permitted: Yes Comments: Nonprofit personal care community in downtown West Chester. Includes secure dementia care neighborhood. Call to schedule a personal tour.

Health Fee-for-Service Available: Yes Alzheimer’s Care: Yes Respite Care: Yes Social Programs: Yes Housekeeping/Laundry Service: Yes Transportation (Scheduled): Yes Personal Car Permitted: Yes Pets Permitted: No Comments: Excellent care in a lovely environment. Call to schedule a visit.

1001 East Oregon Road • Lititz, PA 17543 717-569-3271 • www.LandisHomes.org

The Hickman Friends Senior Community

400 North Walnut Street • West Chester, PA 19380 484-760-6300 • www.TheHickman.org

Respite Care: Yes Social Programs: Yes Housekeeping/Laundry Service: Yes Transportation (Scheduled): Yes Personal Car Permitted: Yes Pets Permitted: Yes Comments: Providing exemplary care in a beautiful environment for more than 150 years. Our continuum includes a hospice program, therapy services, home care and home health services, and 24-hour medical staffing. All-private rooms with full baths and kitchenettes.

Health Fee-for-Service Available: No Alzheimer’s Care: Yes Respite Care: Yes Social Programs: Yes Housekeeping/Laundry Service: Yes Transportation (Scheduled): Yes Personal Car Permitted: Yes Pets Permitted: Yes Comments: Attached to wellness center and pool without going outside.

1520 Harrisburg Pike • Lancaster, PA 17601 717-393-1301 • www.mennonitehome.org Health Fee-for-Service Available: No Alzheimer’s Care: Yes Respite Care: Yes Social Programs: Yes Housekeeping/Laundry Service: Yes Transportation (Scheduled): Yes Personal Car Permitted: Yes Pets Permitted: No Comments: Supportive, encouraging environment. Various room types and suites available. Secure memory care offered.

This is not an all-inclusive list of agencies and providers. These advertisers are eager to provide additional information about their services.


Assisted Living Residences/Personal Care Homes The listings with a shaded background have additional information about their center in a display advertisement in this edition.

Normandie Ridge

1700 Normandie Drive • York, PA 17408 717-764-6262 • https://normandieridge.org Total AL and/or PC Beds: 35 Assisted Living Residence: No Personal Care Home: Yes Private: Yes Semi-private: Yes Private Pay: Yes SSI Accepted: No Short-term Lease: No Entrance Fee/Security Deposit: No Part/Totally Refundable: No Outdoor Areas/Fitness Center: Yes Medication Management: Yes On-call Medical Service: Yes

Health Fee-for-Service Available: Yes Alzheimer’s Care: Yes Respite Care: Yes Social Programs: Yes Housekeeping/Laundry Service: Yes Transportation (Scheduled): Yes Personal Car Permitted: Yes Pets Permitted: No Comments: Our dementia care residence features the Kaleidoscope therapeutic engagement program designed for our residents.

Pleasant View Retirement Community

544 North Penryn Road • Manheim, PA 17545 717-665-2445 • www.pleasantviewrc.org Total AL and/or PC Beds: 96 Assisted Living Residence: No Personal Care Home: Yes Private: Yes Semi-private: Yes Private Pay: Yes SSI Accepted: Yes* Short-term Lease: No Entrance Fee/Security Deposit: Yes Part/Totally Refundable: No Outdoor Areas/Fitness Center: Yes Medication Management: Yes On-call Medical Service: Yes

Health Fee-for-Service Available: Yes Alzheimer’s Care: Yes Respite Care: Yes Social Programs: Yes Housekeeping/Laundry Service: Yes Transportation (Scheduled): Yes Personal Car Permitted: Yes Pets Permitted: No Comments: *Three-year private pay spending. Maintain independence in an enriching and supportive environment.

This is not an all-inclusive list of agencies and providers. These advertisers are eager to provide additional information about their services.

If you would like to be featured on this important page, please contact your account representative or call (717) 285-1350.

Social Security News

By John Johnston

Beware of Scammers Pretending to Be from Social Security

In the digital age, frauds and scams are an unfortunate part of doing business online. During the holiday season, Social Security has traditionally seen a spike in phishing scams, and we want to protect you as best we can. We urge you to always be cautious and to avoid providing sensitive information, such as your Social Security Number or bank account information, to unknown individuals over the phone or internet. If you receive a call and aren’t expecting one, you must be extra careful. You can always get the caller’s information, hang up, and — if you do need more clarification — contact the official phone number of the business or agency that the caller claims to represent. Never reveal personal data to a stranger who called you. Please take note: There’s a scam going around right now. You might receive a call from someone claiming to be from Social Security or another agency. Calls can even display (800) 772-1213, Social Security’s national customer service number, as the incoming number on your caller ID. In some cases, the caller states that Social Security does not have all of your personal information, such as your Social Security number, on file. Other callers claim Social Security needs additional information so the agency can increase your benefit payment, or that Social Security will terminate your benefits if they do not confirm your information. This appears to be a widespread issue, as reports have come from people www.50plusLifePA.com

across the country. These calls are not from Social Security. Callers sometimes state that your Social Security number is at risk of being deactivated or deleted. The caller then asks you to provide a phone number to resolve the issue. People should be aware the scheme’s details may vary; however, you should avoid engaging with the caller or calling the number provided, as the caller might attempt to acquire personal information. Social Security employees occasionally contact people by telephone for customer-service purposes. In only a few special situations, such as when you have business pending with us, a Social Security employee may request the person confirm personal information over the phone. Social Security employees will never threaten you or promise a Social Security benefit approval or increase in exchange for information. In those cases, the call is fraudulent, and you should just hang up. If you receive these calls, please report the information to the Office of the Inspector General at (800) 269-0271 or online at www.oig.ssa.gov/report. Remember, only call official phone numbers and use secured websites of the agencies and businesses you know are correct. Protecting your information is an important part of Social Security’s mission to secure today and tomorrow. John Johnston is a Social Security public affairs specialist.

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Soldier Stories

Robert Naeye

Vietnam Veteran Tried to Win Hearts and Minds

Pennsylvania when Burton was about 10, and he graduated from high school in 1964. Burton joined the ROTC while attending Furman University in South Carolina, graduating in 1968. He decided early on that he wanted to be an Army infantry officer. At that young age, Burton believed the government propaganda that it was urgent for the United States to stop the spread of communism in Southeast Asia. Burton trained to become an officer at Fort Bragg and Fort Benning, where he earned his airborne jump wings and became a Special Forces officer. He flew to Vietnam in November 1969 to serve as a replacement. But when he arrived, an enlisted clerk told him that Photo credit: Robert Naeye Rich Burton with a display he uses when giving talks about his Vietnam the Army didn’t need any more Special experiences to various groups. Forces lieutenants. Looking at Burton’s military records, the clerk noticed that Burton had taken courses in psychology. He said the Marines were looking for psychological operations officers in the Da Nang area and asked Burton if he wanted to go there. “I said to myself that I’d be dead in two months as an infantry lieutenant, so if I go with the Marines, maybe I’ll survive,” recalls Burton. After being shipped to Da Nang, Burton joined the Army’s 7th Psychological Operations Battalion, which was attached to the 1st Marine Division. During his one-year deployment, this unit went into villages and hamlets during the daytime. With help from a Vietnamese interpreter, they made broadcasts, dropped leaflets, and assisted Marines in treating locals for various ailments. At night they showed movies. “I was out with the locals because my job was to win their hearts and Then you need to be a part of Tours and Trips, minds,” says Burton. 50plus LIFE’s February travel focus! Winning hearts and minds also meant playing soccer. Burton recalls four

Like many Vietnam War veterans, Rich Burton feels he was victimized by government lies. Those lies started with the war itself and continue to this day, Burton says, where every effort is made to deny our nation’s wounded warriors desperately needed healthcare. Burton has responded by helping local veterans get the benefits they earned and by helping to form the Central Pennsylvania Vietnam Round Table. Burton was born in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, just outside Philadelphia, in 1946. His father served in the Navy during World War II, but he never talked about his experiences as Burton was growing up. The family moved to Central

— Tours and Trips —

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games between Americans and barefooted Vietnamese, with each side winning twice. But before the games could begin, Marines would have to clear the field of possible landmines. Burton never had to fire his weapon. Marines protected his unit, and the enemy didn’t think it was prudent to attack while movies were being shown. But Burton had the uneasy feeling that North Vietnamese and Viet Cong soldiers were sitting in the audience. Even if the locals felt sympathy for the Americans, enemy guerillas would return at night to terrorize or murder any civilians who cooperated too closely with the foreigners. But on occasion, the locals would surrender weapons and ammunition to Burton’s unit that would have otherwise been used to kill Marines. Burton points to a vast gulf between what the U.S. government was saying about the war and what he was seeing on the ground. It was obvious to Burton that the U.S. was not winning. No matter how many enemy combatants were killed, they could always replenish their numbers while the American public was growing war weary. “When I went over to Vietnam, I believed all the lies the government said that we’re winning the war, and we just need a few more troops to come in to pacify the country. But when I was there on the ground, it didn’t take very long to figure out that it was all a lie,” he says, with a tone of bitterness. He came to believe many years later that the U.S. never should have been in Vietnam. According to Burton, it was a civil war between the Vietnamese, and that “58,000 American men and women died for no reason, and hundreds of thousands were screwed up mentally and physically.” Burton is still angry at Johnson, Nixon, and Kissinger for prolonging the war for political purposes, even though they knew it was unwinnable. “None of it happened the way the government said it did,” he says. “I know it’s shocking to some people that the government lies, but Vietnam was never a place we had to go.” According to Burton, the Veterans Administration (VA) still doesn’t want to

compensate Vietnam vets for their physical and mental wounds. In particular, it continues to deny payments to veterans exposed to Agent Orange, a defoliant widely used by the U.S. military during the war that causes many forms of cancer and other diseases. “It’s all about the money. If the VA would pay every Vietnam veteran, the VA wouldn’t have any money left in its budget,” says Burton, who is active with the Vietnam Veterans of America. Burton says the VA hopes that veterans who are denied claims will give up. Instead, he encourages veterans to consult an attorney or a veteran’s service officer. Vets who appeal over and over sometimes receive compensation. Burton worked 27 years for Pennsylvania’s Department of Public Welfare, Labor and Industry, retiring in 2005. He and his wife, Evelyn, have two sons and three grandchildren. Burton wrote many letters to his parents from Vietnam, but he didn’t read them until long after the war, when Evelyn encouraged him. “I blocked out 90 percent of whatever I did in Vietnam. I didn’t remember because I didn’t want to remember,” he says. Burton and several veterans founded the Central Pennsylvania Vietnam Round Table in January 2013. This nonprofit is the only known Vietnam-specific oral history group in the country. Vietnam veterans share their stories every month at free meetings. It also serves as a safe haven for Vietnam veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder. The round table has also donated $7,000 to local veterans’ organizations. The meetings are held every second Thursday of the month at 8000 Derry St., Harrisburg. For more information about the Central Pennsylvania Vietnam Round Table, visit http://centralpavietnamroundtable.com. Robert Naeye is a freelance journalist living in Derry Township. He is the former editor-in-chief of Sky & Telescope magazine.

YORK

All of the care you need at our LIFE Health and Wellness Center. And in your home. We at On-Line Publishers, Inc. are grateful to our dedicated staff, loyal readers, and supportive advertisers who have all enabled us to continue our mission to serve the mind, heart, and spirit of the 50+ community in 2018. We wish to thank each of you for helping to make 50plus LIFE a fun, interesting, and unique source of information and entertainment for our readers in Central Pennsylvania. At this special time of giving thanks and reminiscing, the staff of On-Line Publishers wishes you, our friends, warmest holiday wishes.

Senior LIFE is the local LIFE Program that provides all of the healthcare and personal support services seniors need to continue to live in their home and not a nursing home. Services include access to the LIFE Health and Wellness Center, medical care, transportation, and much more. Senior LIFE also provides and coordinates all Medicare and Medicaid benefits through a single network.

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Get Help Navigating Medicare The York County Area Agency on Aging’s APPRISE program will offer free, personalized counseling during Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period, which ends Dec. 7. The Annual Enrollment Period is when Medicare beneficiaries can review their coverage and determine if health and prescription plans continue to meet their needs. By comparing plans and making changes by Dec. 7, Medicare will have enough time to process those changes to ensure that the new coverage will begin on Jan. 1, 2019. Throughout the annual enrollment period, Medicare beneficiaries will be able to receive

one-on-one counseling assistance offered by trained APPRISE counselors at different locations throughout York County. Prescheduled appointments are necessary and can be made by calling the APPRISE scheduling line at (717) 771-9042 or (800) 632-9073. Dates and locations for the sessions are as follows: Monday, Dec. 3 9 a.m. to noon York County Area Agency on Aging 100 W. Market St., York

Tuesday, Dec. 4 9 a.m. to noon York County Area Agency on Aging 100 W. Market St., York Wednesday, Dec. 5 9 a.m. to noon York County Area Agency on Aging 100 W. Market St., York For more information, call the York County Area Agency on Aging at (717) 771-9610.

COLLECTIBLES from page 3 and online, such as the Bliss Company village of lithographed cardboard featuring a pharmacy, opera house, bank, and post office, which sold for $16,500 recently. That’s big money for some little cardboard houses.

When you decorate or display antique treasures during the holiday season, remember to consider pets, direct sunlight, warm fireplace hearths, and new traffic patterns made by hosting guests in your home so you retain those cherished objects in good condition for years to come. Happy holidays.

Toys & Games Major board game companies, such as Milton Bradley, introduced games featuring Santa, including the seasonal favorite, The Santa Claus Game. Today, this holiday game in excellent condition is worth more at Christmastime.

Dr. Lori Verderame is an author, internationally syndicated columnist, Ph.D. antiques appraiser, and award-winning artifacts expert on the History channel’s The Curse of Oak Island. Dr. Lori appraises objects at her nationwide events (www.drloriv.com/ events) and on her YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/drloriv).

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Savvy Senior

What You’ll Pay for Medicare in 2019 Jim Miller

Dear Savvy Senior, I know there will be a small 2.8 percent cost-of-living increase in Social Security benefits next year, but what about Medicare? What will our Medicare Part B monthly premiums and other Medicare costs be in 2019? – Curious Jim Dear Jim, The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services recently announced their cost adjustments for 2019, and you’ll be happy to know that the standard Medicare Part B monthly premium for most beneficiaries starting in January will be $135.50, a modest increase of just $1.50 per month over 2018’s standard premium. There are, however, a small group of Medicare beneficiaries (about 2 million people) who will actually pay less than $135.50 because the 2.8 percent cost-of-living increase in their Social Security checks will not be large enough to cover the full premium increase. Thanks to the Social Security Act’s “hold harmless” provision, Medicare cannot pass along premium increases greater than the dollar increase in their Social Security checks. In addition, there is also a small group of high-income beneficiaries (about 3 million people) who will pay higher Part B premiums because their income is above $85,000 as a single person or $170,000 as a married

couple filing jointly. Medicare uses modified adjusted gross income from your tax return from two years ago to determine your premiums, which means that 2019 Part B premiums are determined by 2017 income. So, if your income was $85,001 to $107,000 (or $170,001 to $214,000 if filing jointly), your monthly premium will increase from $187.50 to $189.60. Monthly premiums for singles with an income of $107,001 to $133,500 (joint filers with income of $214,001 to $267,000) will rise from $267.90 to $270.90. And premiums for singles earning $133,501 to $160,000 ($267,001 to $320,000 for joint filers) will increase from $348.30 to $352.20. If you had higher income than that, your monthly premium for 2018 was $428.60. In 2019, there will be an extra surcharge tier for people with the highest income. If your income is between $160,001 and $499,999 ($320,001 to $749,999 for joint filers), you’ll pay $433.40 per month. Single filers with income of $500,000 or more ($750,000 or

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more for joint filers) will pay $460.50 per month. If you fall into any of these high-income categories and you’ve experienced certain life-changing events that have reduced your income since 2017 — such as retirement, divorce, or the death of a spouse — you can contest the surcharge. For more information about contesting or reducing the high-income surcharge, see Medicare Premiums: Rules for Higher-Income Beneficiaries at www. ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10536.pdf.

In addition to the Part B premium increases, the annual deductible for Medicare Part B, which covers physician services and other outpatient services, will see a mild bump from $183 to $185 in 2019. The deductible for Medicare Part A, which covers hospital services, will increase from $1,340 in 2018 to $1,364 in 2019. For more information on all the Medicare costs for 2019, visit www. medicare.gov and click on “Find out how much Medicare costs in 2019,” or call (800) 633-4227. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit www.savvysenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior book.

Give someone you love the gift that entertains, informs, and inspires, month after month! Or renew an existing subscription! Get a 12-month subscription to 50plus LIFE for just $10. Mail form to: 50plus LIFE, 3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512 Please start a gift subscription for: Beginning (month) _ ___________________________ Name_ _____________________________________ Street_ _____________________________________ Apt._ ______________________________________ City/State_ __________________________________ Zip_ _______________________________________ Sign card from: Your name___________________________________ Street_ _____________________________________ Apt._ ______________________________________ City/State_ __________________________________ Zip_ _______________________________________ Your phone number____________________________ Paper (or papers/$10 per edition): Expires 12/31/18 qChester qCumberland qDauphin qLancaster qLebanon qYork

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Orthopedics & Pain Dear Pharmacist

The 6 Best Foods to Eat if You Have Arthritis Suzy Cohen

If you have arthritis, you know what to expect every day when you get up in the morning: trying to find a comfortable way to sit; grocery shopping, where it’s one painful step in front of the other; or difficulty buttoning your shirt. But wouldn’t it be nice to be flexible around the holidays? I don’t mean in terms of parties, events, and trips — I mean with your joints. Eating certain foods reduces inflammation and pain. But first, here are three food groups you should avoid, since these harm your brain, joints, and cartilage: • Anything with artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners • GMO foods, which are so “hardy” they pierce the gut, leaching toxins into your body and poisoning your bloodstream • Pesticides (organic is better, especially if you have a PON1 gene SNP) Now, let’s look at six of the best foods to include in your diet if you have arthritis pain:

3. Garlic Garlic is good for so many healthpromoting effects in the body. It’s cancer preventative and a potent antiinflammatory food. In one study of 1,082 twins, researchers found that those who ate the most garlic experienced the fewest symptoms from osteoarthritis. 4. Fennel Fennel has long been used as medicine, dating back to ancient Rome and Greece. Fennel is a delicious way to spice up a salad, making it virtually cancerpreventative and helping to drastically reduce inflammation in the joints and tissues. 5. Beet Greens Dark, leafy greens, such as beet greens, are full of phytonutrients, vitamins and minerals that reduce inflammation all over the body. Beet greens (not beets) are extremely high in vitamin K, another potent antiinflammatory. Two cups of these will deliver about 4,700 mg of potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure. Sauté beet greens with garlic in some grass-fed butter. They wilt within a minute.

1. Organic ginger Ginger is highly anti-inflammatory. Researchers found that ginger relieves pain in patients with osteoarthritis, helping 63 percent of participants. Another study found that ginger can block the manufacture of inflammatory cytokines in the body. Make ginger tea or grate it into meals.

6. Spinach A 2017 study showed how kaempferol (which is found in spinach) reduces inflammation and prevents the progression of osteoarthritis, the wear-and-tear type of arthritis. Kaempferol also decreases the effects of inflammatory cytokines associated with rheumatoid arthritis, the autoimmune form that affects bone marrow.

2. Tart cherries Like blueberries, cherries are rich in a compound called anthocyanin, which gives cherries their deep, blue-red hue. A 2013 study found that patients who drink tart cherry juice found they improved levels of pain and stiffness from arthritis. It’s known to help with gouty arthritis too.

If you want to be more flexible, now and into the new year, think clean, green, organic, non-nitrate, natural foods as best you can. It may sound difficult, if not stifling, but if you set your mind to it, you’ll notice changes within a month.

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This information is not intended to diagnose, prevent, or treat your disease. For more information about the author, visit SuzyCohen.com

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Orthopedics & Pain Advances in Treatment for Big Toe Arthritis Provide Pain Relief, Faster Recovery The big toe plays a crucial role in standing, walking, and many other daily activities. It makes it possible for humans to walk and run upright, and it absorbs forces equal to nearly twice a person’s body weight when walking. With all that the big toe endures, it comes as no surprise that overuse can erode the joint cartilage and cause serious pain and even physical deformities. Despite the obvious signs, big toe arthritis — which occurs when cartilage in the joints wears down and exposed bones rub against each other — is often overlooked. Foot and ankle surgeons urge people to pay attention to these signs early. With more treatment options and recent advancements, foot and ankle surgeons can help patients get back to doing the activities they love sooner.

According to Brett Sachs, D.P.M., a Colorado foot and ankle surgeon and fellow member of American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, big toe arthritis usually develops in adults between the ages of 40 and 60 years and is a progressive deformity that can be caused by regular wear-and-tear and sometimes even mechanical changes due to injury. Symptoms include stiffness, loss of range of motion, swelling, and sometimes even noticeable cracking. Individuals with mid- to end-stage arthritis tend to experience more severe pain because the cartilage has almost completely eroded, and the bones are actually rubbing together. For these cases, foot and ankle surgeons look to next-step treatments, including advancements in the area of implants.

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Orthopedics & Pain Best Home Remedies for Back-Pain Relief By Dr. Kaliq Chang With low back pain affecting 8 in 10 Americans at some point in their lives, many people wonder what their options are for treating the occasional back pain flare-up safely and effectively at home. Fortunately, a wide variety of home-based treatments can ease the ache when your back acts up, according to Kaliq Chang, M.D., interventional pain management specialist with Atlantic Spine Center. “Whether your back pain is caused by lifting something heavy, from bending the wrong way, or because of an ongoing issue like osteoarthritis, most back pain is mild and occasional,” Chang explains. “For routine back pain, certain tried-and-true approaches can be done at home when you’re able, offering relief at a time that’s convenient for you.” Home Treatments for Back Pain What remedies for back pain are accessible at home? Pain relievers: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), target not only back pain itself, but also the inflammation often fueling the hurt. Check with your doctor of pharmacist about any potential drug interactions between these medications and others you may be taking. Exercise: It may seem counterintuitive, but moving your body — within limits — actually helps ease back pain, Chang says. “You may not feel like moving if your back aches, but your body will thank you for making the effort,” he says. “Spines are meant to move.” Even everyday movement, such as taking a walk or making the bed, helps ease sore back muscles, and a light workout is certainly fine as long as you don’t overdo it, he says. Stretching: Every 20 minutes or so, get up and bend lightly in various directions, carefully stretching out back muscles. “This gentle stretching helps strains and sprains to recover gradually, keeping muscles limber,” Chang says. “Some people find back-pain relief by maintaining a regular stretching routine.” Apply cold: Cold compresses or ice is optimal in the first 24-48 hours after a minor injury that results in back pain, Chang says. “The cold will help dampen inflammation from developing as well as feel good,” he says. Apply cold packs in 20-minute segments. Apply heat: Warmth (hot water bottle, heating pad) not only feels good on a sore back, but it helps relax muscles. Heat therapy should only be used on older injuries, not right after a fresh injury, Chang notes. Again, apply in 20-minute periods.

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Physical therapy: While not strictly a home-based treatment, physical therapy often ends up continuing at home. With a physical therapist’s advice and guidance, back-pain patients become aware of the best exercises to do at home to improve back pain and keep it away, Chang says. If your back pain doesn’t subside after a week or so of home treatments — or becomes more severe, hurting even when you’re at rest — it’s time to call a doctor, Chang advises. “Immediate medical attention is necessary if you have weakness or numbness in your legs or ‘saddle area’ of your crotch, or if you have trouble standing or walking,” he adds. “Forget home-based treatments at that point and seek an expert opinion.” Prevention Starts at Home, Too Since prevention is always the best treatment, avoiding back pain can start at home as well, Chang notes. These measures can stop back pain from developing in the first place: • Watch your weight: Being overweight puts excess strain on the spine and back muscles. • Quit smoking: Smoking ups the odds of bone problems in the spine and of suffering low back pain. • Wear low heels: Heels higher than 1 inch can create unstable posture, increasing pressure on the lower spine. • Pay attention to posture: Many of us slump without noticing, but this can make it harder for your back to support your weight, Chang says. Keep your back erect when walking or sitting, and don’t bend from the waist while lifting heavy objects. • Ergonomics count: Design your desk and workspace to avoid needing to hunch forward while using your computer or reach for your mouse, Chang advises. Use a desk chair that’s supportive of the lower back and allows you to keep your feet planted on the floor,” he adds. • Exercise your core: Our core muscles support the lower back and abdomen, Chang says, and keeping them strong helps combat lower back pain. “Proper posture and spine alignment is enabled by a strong core,” he says. “Exercises, such as those in Pilates classes, help firm and tone these key muscles.” Kaliq Chang, M.D., is an interventional pain management specialist board certified in anesthesiology at Atlantic Spine Center. www.atlanticspinecenter.com

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Orthopedics & Pain ARTHRITIS from page 15

Surgical removal (cheilectomy): To help give the toe better movement and relieve pain, foot and ankle surgeons surgically remove damaged cartilage around the joint, along with spurs or overgrowths, which may develop on top of the bone during mid-stage toe arthritis. Patients are able to fully weight bear immediately after the procedure. Joint fusion: Also called “arthrodesis,” this procedure removes the worndown cartilage and uses plates and screws to hold the joint in the right position to alleviate pain. Patients tend to fully recover in approximately six to eight weeks and

Thank You, Columnists! 50plus LIFE continues to bring important information as well as entertaining articles to the 50+ community. We at On-Line Publishers would like to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation to the editorial contributors of 50plus LIFE:

usually return to all their regular activities, from walking to running marathons. For early-stage big toe arthritis, foot and ankle surgeons look first to conservative treatments to decrease pain in the joint, such as prescribing anti-inflammatory medication and increasing arch support with custom shoe inserts. “The sooner patients see a foot and ankle surgeon, the better options there are to treat them,” said Sachs. “In a majority of the time, we can alleviate the symptoms and possibly slow down the progression of the disease with less invasive procedures.” According to Suneel Basra, D.P.M., a New Jersey foot and ankle surgeon and fellow member of ACFAS, ultimately, patients should decide on the best treatment for their situation with their foot and ankle surgeon. “There are standards and many different clinical studies that support each method,” said Basra. “But, there’s more than meets the eye, and depending on lifestyle, age, and other habits, some methods will be better than others.” For more information on big toe arthritis and the latest treatments, or to find a local foot and ankle surgeon in your area, visit Foot Health Facts (www. foothealthfacts.org), the patient-education website of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.

Please join us for these FREE events! April 30, 2019

20th Annual

Joint implant (implant arthroplasty): This method of treatment tends to be utilized by individuals who are active and want to retain as much motion as possible. Foot and ankle surgeons use a silicone implant that creates space between the bones, allowing for more movement than other alternatives. Patients who undergo implant surgery are usually able to walk and move the joint as early as the next day. Newer, up-and-coming methods, including the use of synthetics and other types of implant materials, are also low risk and help patients with big toe arthritis return to their normal routine and activities.

9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

LANCASTER COUNTY

Suzy Cohen (Dear Pharmacist)

Robert Naeye (Soldier Stories)

Andrea Gross (Traveltizers)

Victor Parachin (Fragments of History, Grief Relief)

Randal C. Hill (Fifties Flashback, It Was 50 Years Ago Today)

Saralee Perel (Such is Life)

John Johnston (Social Security News)

Sy Rosen (Older But Not Wiser)

Bill Levine (Booming Voice)

Terri Schlichenmeyer (The Bookworm Sez)

Mark Pilarski (Deal Me In)

Clyde McMillan-Gamber (The Beauty in Nature) Nick Thomas (Tinseltown Talks) Jim Miller (The Savvy Senior)

Dr. Lori Verderame (Art and Antiques)

It is through the varied interests and considerable talents of our contributors and freelance writers that such a range of informative and entertaining content is available to read each month. The pages of 50plus LIFE are enriched by your contributions.

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May 28, 2019

20th Annual

Melinda Myers (Melinda’s Garden)

9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Hershey Lodge 325 University Drive Hershey

DAUPHIN COUNTY

June 5, 2019

16th Annual

Tom Blake (On Life and Love after 50)

Shady Maple Conference Center Smorgasbord Building 129 Toddy Drive, East Earl

9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

CHESTER COUNTY

Church Farm School 1001 East Lincoln Highway Exton

Exhibitors • Health Screenings • Seminars • Demonstrations • Entertainment • Door Prizes Limited Sponsorship Opportunities Available (717) 285-1350 (717) 770-0140 (610) 675-6240

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December 2018

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Calendar of Events

York County

Community Programs/Support Groups Free and open to the public Dec. 1, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Annual Holiday Bazaar Covenant Moravian Church 901 Cape Horn Road, York (717) 755-3269 Dec. 3, 9:30 a.m. Green Thumb Garden Club Meeting Emmanuel Lutheran Church 2650 Freysville Road, Red Lion (717) 235-2823 Dec. 7, 10:30 a.m. Partners in Thyme Herb Club of Southern York County Glenview Alliance Church

10037 Susquehanna Trail, Glen Rock (717) 428-2210

Crispus Attucks Active Living Center (717) 848-3610, www.crispusattucks.org

Dec. 9, 7 p.m. Community Christmas Candlelight Lovefeast Covenant Moravian Church 901 Cape Horn Road, York (717) 755-3269

Delta Area Senior Center, Inc. – (717) 456-5753

Dec. 18, 7-8 p.m. Alzheimer’s Support Group Providence Place 3377 Fox Run Road, Dover (717) 767-4500

Parks and Recreation Dec. 7, 6-8 p.m. – Hanging of the Greens, Hanover Junction Train Station Dec. 28, 9:30-11:30 a.m.; Dec. 29, 1:30-3:30 p.m. – Marshmallow Hike, Rocky Ridge Park Dec. 30, 9:30-11 a.m. – Last Hike of the Year, Nixon Park

Library Programs Arthur Hufnagel Public Library of Glen Rock, 32 Main St., Glen Rock, (717) 235-1127 Dec. 5, 3:30-5 p.m. – Tech Guru

Kreutz Creek Valley Library Center, 66 Walnut Springs Road, Hellam, (717) 252-4080 Dec. 20, 3-4:45 p.m. – Tech Guru

Collinsville Community Library, 2632 Delta Road, Brogue, (717) 927-9014 Dec. 4, 11, 18, 6-8 p.m. – Purls of Brogue Dec. 12, 10:30-11:30 a.m. – C.U.B.S.: Connecting U Before School (Family)

Martin Library, 159 E. Market St., York, (717) 8465300 Dec. 8, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – Holiday Tea Party Dec. 8, 3-4:30 p.m. – High Tea Dec. 16, 1:30-4:30 p.m. – Gourd Craft (Family)

Dillsburg Area Public Library, 17 S. Baltimore St., Dillsburg, (717) 432-5613 Dec. 3 and 10, 6:30-7:30 p.m. – Polar Express (Family) Dec. 12, 6-7:30 p.m. – Opioid 101 Training Dec. 13, 12:30-2:15 p.m. – Tech Guru

Mason-Dixon Public Library, 250 Bailey Drive, Stewartstown, (717) 993-2404 Dec. 3, 6-8 p.m. – R hythm and Rhyme Poetry Workshop (Family) Dec. 5 and 19, 10:30 a.m. to noon – Wednesday WIPS

Dover Area Community Library, 3700-3 Davidsburg Road, Dover, (717) 292-6814 Through Dec. 12 – Letters from Santa Glatfelter Memorial Library, 101 Glenview Road, Spring Grove, (717) 225-3220 Dec. 12, 5:30-7 p.m. – Board Game Night (Family) Dec. 17, 6-7:30 p.m. – Narcan 101 Training Dec. 27, 1:30-3 p.m. – Tech Guru Guthrie Memorial Library, 2 Library Place, Hanover, (717) 632-5183 Dec. 10 and 11, 5:30-7 p.m. – Polar Express (Family) Dec. 11, 1:30-2:30 p.m. – Adult Coloring Kaltreider-Benfer Library, 147 S. Charles St., Red Lion, (717) 244-2032 Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. – Knit Wits Dec. 4, 5-7 p.m. – Greeting Card Class

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Senior Center Activities

Paul Smith Library of Southern York County, 80 Constitution Ave., Shrewsbury, (717) 235-4313 Dec. 6, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Tech Guru Dec. 8, 10 a.m. to noon – Gift Wrap Workshop Dec. 9, 2-4:30 p.m. – Benefit Paint Party Red Land Community Library, 48 Robin Hood Drive, Etters, (717) 938-5599 Dec. 3 and 17, 1-2 p.m. – Adult Yoga Dec. 13, 3-4:45 p.m. – Tech Guru Dec. 20, 11 a.m. to noon – Lunch and Learn Salem Square Library, 596 W. Princess St., York, (717) 650-2262 Dec. 4, 5, 6 , 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 26, 27, 28, 2:30-5 p.m. – After-School Program Village Library, 35-C N. Main St., Jacobus, (717) 428-1034 Thursdays, 5-8 p.m. – Village Knitters Dec. 27, 4-5:45 p.m. – Tech Guru Dec. 27, 6-7 p.m. – Narcan 101 Training

Dillsburg Senior Activity Center – (717) 432-2216 Wednesdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. – Diabetes Prevention Program/Group Eastern Area Senior Center, Inc. – (717) 252-1641 Golden Connections Community Center (717) 244-7229, www.gcccenter.com Weekdays, 9 a.m. – Games Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 10 a.m. – Pinochle Fridays, 9:15 a.m. – Computers 101 Golden Visions Senior Community Center (717) 633-5072, www.goldenvisionspa.com Heritage Senior Center, Inc. – (717) 292-7471 www.heritagesrcenter.org Northeastern Senior Community Center (717) 266-1400, www.mtwolf.org/SeniorCenter Red Land Senior Center – (717) 938-4649 www.redlandseniorcenter.org September House – (717) 848-4417 South Central Senior Community Center (717) 235-6060 http://southcentralyorkcountysrctr.webs.com Tuesdays, 9:15 a.m. – Tai Chi Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m. – Watercolor Art Class Dec. 2 – Glen Rock Carolers Stewartstown Senior Center – (717) 993-3488 www.stewsenior.org Susquehanna Senior Center – (717) 244-0340 www.susquehannaseniorcenter.org Mondays, 9:30-10:30 a.m. – Chorus Practice Tuesdays, 6-10 p.m. – Bluegrass/Country Music Jam Session White Rose Senior Center – (717) 843-9704 www.whiteroseseniorcenter.org Windy Hill On the Campus – (717) 225-0733 www.windyhillonthecampus.org Dec. 18, 12:30 p.m. – Monthly Book Club Yorktown Senior Center – (717) 854-0693 www.yorktownseniorcenter.org Submit senior center events to mjoyce@onlinepub.com.

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Grief Relief

Grief Doesn’t Take a Holiday Victor Parachin

When my wife, Linda, died earlier in the year, her loss left my family and me feeling confused about how to celebrate because she was the driving energy behind our holiday gatherings. – Neal After a long and happy marriage, my husband, whom I’d known since high school, died in October. My grieving was intensified as I anticipated my first December without him. – Paula

tears, then cry. Don’t resist what is happening. Go with the ebb and flow of grief. 9. Remember that some relatives can be great resources. Because the holidays and family gatherings come together, remember that some of your extended family can be helpful. Not every relative can handle a grieving person, while others can. Gravitate toward the ones who understand, are supportive, and are comforting to you. Without being rude, gently distance yourself from those who just don’t get grief.

The fact is that grief doesn’t take a holiday in December. While many of us are festive, those who grieve a loss often find their pain heightened during this time. However, as many bereaved individuals can testify, it is possible to celebrate while grieving. Here are 10 tips for managing loss this month.

10. Buy a gift you would have given your loved one. Then, give it to a charity or someone who would truly appreciate the gift. For example, one man had planned to buy his wife a new laptop computer. After her death in the fall, he still made the purchase and gave the laptop to a student at a community college.

1. Avoid placing excessive expectations on yourself. Your energies are down as you grieve, so it may not be possible to do everything and be everywhere. Pace yourself carefully. Give yourself permission to reduce the festivities and decline some invitations.

Victor M. Parachin, M.Div., is a grief counselor, bereavement educator, and author of several books, including Healing Grief.

2. Consider all the options for celebrating. Some grieving families maintain their tradition. Others find it helpful to change things up. Have a conversation with family members about how to best gather for the holiday. If family members live a distance away, have the “conversation” via a group email. 3. Balance family time with alone time. Because grieving is physically and emotionally draining, try to balance your time with family with some time alone. Rest when you need to. Retiring to a quiet place, even for a few minutes, can be renewing. 4. Take care of your physical self. This means getting proper rest; eating nutritious meals, always a challenge during the holidays; and avoiding too much sugar, caffeine, and alcohol. Work in time to exercise several days a week. 5. Forgive yourself. The holidays can dredge up regrets and guilt feelings about things said or not said, things done or not done. Do all you can to let it go and forgive yourself. 6. Give yourself a break from grieving. Set aside time to read a good book, watch some movies, attend a holiday concert, get a massage, or take a yoga class or two. Of course you need to deal with your grief, but you don’t have to focus every minute on it. Give yourself some breaks from grieving.

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7. Speak your loved one’s name. Some families try to ignore the fact of loss and grief by not talking about the deceased loved one. This is not productive. A better approach is to speak about the person. Use his or her name. Some families report that it was helpful to take a few minutes before a meal to have members share favorite memories about the deceased.

Name______________________________________________________

8. Allow grief to move through you in a natural way. If you’re sad, be sad. If you find reasons to be happy (even briefly), be happy. If you need to shed

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Tech Talk

Emails: Fake or the Real Deal? Mark Rinaudo

Most browsers and email clients will display the real web address of that link toward the bottom of the page. The link in the email hides the actual address until you hover your mouse over it, and then it will display the address at the bottom. The email pictured here is from FedEx, and the link’s address shows that it’s from www. fedex.com. This is a good sign that the email is legitimate. Some links in the email could be valid, however, while others are not. It’s always a good idea to investigate links this way before clicking on them to make sure they are taking you somewhere you want to go. The other image is an example of an email claiming to be from Target. If you hover your mouse over the link that they are eager for you to click for your $50 reward card, you’ll see you’re not going to target.com but to vhjzwv.tk, which is in Tokyo. This should send a red flag up in your mind, and you would be better off deleting this email. Another telling sign is the email address of the sender of the email. If the address of the sender doesn’t end with @target.com or something containing target.com, then it’s probably not from Target. This email is from someone in .tk — not from Target. Use the clues to determine if the email is real or a fake.

Question: I receive lots of emails on a daily basis, and some emails look like they are from legitimate companies but seem too good to be true. How do I know they’re really from that company?

All companies today utilize email as part of their marketing campaign. Sometimes companies send emails out providing notices about policy changes regarding your account with them. Most companies will not send emails requesting information. If you do receive an email requesting information or stating that you need to click a link in the email to take you to their website, then you’re probably dealing with a phishing scam email. Phishing emails are generated by robots the same way spam is generated and spread throughout the internet. These emails are fishing for information. Move the mouse so that the cursor hovers over Most of the time they lead you to a website the link and look at the bottom left of your screen. that looks legitimate, but when you enter your This link goes to vhjzwv.tk, not target.com login and password, it doesn’t seem to know who you are. This malicious activity is a way for your account information to be gathered and sold for money, or worse: to use your information to log in to your real account and progress the phishing game to a whole new level. The end goal is always money. If you receive an email and you’re not sure it’s really from the legitimate company, there are things to check to determine its legitimacy. Mark Rinaudo has been working in IT in Shreveport, La., for more than 20 If you receive an email with a link requesting that you log in to your account years. He is the owner and operator of Preferred Data Solutions. Email mark@ to review some activity, then move your mouse so that the cursor hovers over preferreddatasolutions.com to submit a question for this column. the link in the email without clicking on it.

Are You Reading? Join the 2019 One Book, One Community campaign by reading Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann. 40 libraries in Cumberland, Dauphin, Perry, York, and surrounding counties and their community partners present the regional reading campaign. Read the book in January and attend free library programs and discussions throughout February and early spring!

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Credit: Readers.com

Photo credit: Michael Lionstar

Visit www.oboc.org or your library to learn more

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American Legion Riders No. 455 Host Memorial Ride American Legion Stewart Post No. 455 hosted a motorcycle ride to raise funds for the Not One More – York Chapter on Sept. 29. Not One More is a national nonprofit organization that provides awareness, education, and support to those affected by drug abuse and addiction. Bryan Patterson, vice president of American Legion Riders No. 455, led more than 100 participants aboard 95 motorcycles on a 50-mile journey through scenic York County, beginning at PRS Bar & Lounge in York and ending at Stewart Post No. 455 in Stewartstown. The ride remembered Beau Miller, of York, who died from a drug overdose on Dec. 24, 2017.

Volunteer Spotlight Volunteers Find Fulfillment in Helping Community Bob Fallon, Julie Hicks, and Diana Arnold are York County Area Agency on Aging’s Volunteers of the Month for their ongoing service and dedication to the agency and York County’s older adults. Fallon, of York city, volunteers as a financial counselor and in the special events programs. Fallon finds great satisfaction in helping others without expecting anything in return, and his family is supportive as well. “If you are looking for a sense of self-fulfillment, share your talents,” Fallon said. “You’ll receive so much more than you give, and it’ll make you a better person.” Hicks, of Dallastown Borough, volunteers in a variety of opportunities, including general office assistant, deliveries, and special events. Hicks feels it is important to

Julie Hicks

Diana Arnold

Bob Fallon

volunteer and contribute to a worthwhile cause or organization. “Since volunteering, I have found that it’s rewarding to see the smiles and appreciation on the faces of the seniors whom I am helping. It makes what I do extremely satisfying,” Hicks said. Arnold, of York Township, volunteers as a Matter of Balance coach after a long career as a registered nurse. Arnold believes that her skills are a good fit and this is a way to give back to the community. “Volunteering in the community has physical and emotional benefits for people,” Arnold said. “It gives purpose to your life.” For more information on volunteer opportunities with the York County Area Agency on Aging, call (717) 771-9610.

Do you know a 50+ volunteer who gives selflessly to others? Tell us what makes him or her so special and we will consider them for 50plus LIFE’s Volunteer Spotlight! Submissions should be 200 words or fewer and photos are encouraged. Email preferred to mjoyce@onlinepub.com or mail nominations to 50plus LIFE, Volunteer Spotlight, 3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512.

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“This event is one of the largest fundraisers to date that will benefit the York Chapter and allow us to educate families on the hazards of heroin, fentanyl, and other drugs as well as provide support to survivors,” Christine Thompson, event Photo credit: Cheryl Steeg organizer and Members of American Legion Riders Post No. 455 member of NOM, who participated in the Not One More memorial ride said. in honor of Beau Miller, held Sept. 29. Members of the Not One More – York County Chapter shared photos and background stories of 138 individuals who died from drug overdoses and suicide in 2017 in York County. Not One More volunteers also provided information to participants about suicide prevention and the hazards of drug abuse. For more information, contact Vickie Glatfelter, president of the NOM – York Chapter, at (717) 850-6350 or outreach@nomyork.org.

Drug Coverage Expansion Would Cover 17,000 More Seniors In late October, legislation to expand eligibility for the state’s PACENET prescription drug coverage program passed the House and Senate and is now awaiting the governor’s consideration. House Bill 270 would increase the income eligibility guidelines for the PACENET program, extending prescription drug coverage to more than 17,000 older Pennsylvanians. The PACE and PACENET programs provide low-cost prescription drugs to Pennsylvania seniors age 65 and older. Both programs are funded from proceeds of the Pennsylvania Lottery. House Bill 270 would increase

the annual maximum income limits in the PACENET program to $27,500 for a single person and to $35,500 for a married couple. Current maximum income requirements for the PACENET program, which covers those individuals with incomes exceeding PACE maximums, are $23,500 for a single individual and $31,500 for a married couple annually. This would be the first increase in the program since 2004. Additionally, the bill would allow two new pharmacy-based programs to be developed under the PACE program to assist seniors in monitoring their prescription drug usage. www.50plusLifePA.com


The Beauty in Nature

Beavers and Porcupines Clyde McMillan-Gamber

Beavers and porcupines have and certain maples — with their strong much in common. These interesting teeth. They eat the twigs, buds, and species are large rodents that live in bark from those trees and use the logs Pennsylvania’s forests, as well as in and branches to make dams and lodges. woods across much of North America. Dams back up streams and form Both have large, orange teeth they ponds. Beavers build secure homes use to consume tree bark, twigs, and of logs and limbs in the ponds, with other tough vegetation. Both are underwater entrances to their homes. fairly common in There, each pair woodlands these lives and raises days. young. And, as with Porcupines all rodents, grow to be 3 feet their teeth grow long and up to throughout their 20 pounds. They lives, which is are solitary, except essential because when mating or of the wear those raising a single Beaver teeth sustain while young each year. gnawing bark and Each porky dens twigs. in a tree cavity But beavers or a hole in the and porcupines ground. have differences, Porcupines are too, which make famous for their them distinct white-tipped, species. Beavers black quills that live at ponds are modified hairs they create on used to protect Porcupine woodland streams these creatures. by damming those The tip of each waterways. quill is barbed, which allows it to be Porkies mostly dwell in tall trees better imbedded in an attacker. in the woods. These different niches When threatened, each porcupine reduce competition for living space and turns its back to the aggressor, lowers food between these woodland rodents. its head, raises the quills on its body Beavers have luxurious, dark-brown and tail, and swings its tail from side fur and weigh up to 50 pounds. Each to side. Few critters try to get through beaver has a 10-inch-long, 6-inch-wide, that defense! flattened, hairless tail that is covered Porcupines are also famous for their with scales. craving of salt and other minerals. They It uses its tail for steering while consume shed deer antlers for calcium swimming with its back legs, storing and other minerals. And they chew on fat, patting down mud on log-and-twig axe handles and other wooden tools left dams and lodges, and slapping water in the woods because of the salt on the surfaces to warn of danger. wood from sweaty human hands. And its nostrils, eyes, and ears are Beavers and porcupines are big, set near the top of its head so it can interesting rodents that are part of breathe while smelling, watching, and many woods in Pennsylvania. Though listening for danger while the rest of its related, they follow different lifestyles; body is out of sight under water. this allows them to live in the same Beavers chew down young, soft trees forests with little competition for — including aspens, birches, willows, shelter and food. www.50plusLifePA.com

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50plus LIFE t

December 2018

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