Augustpsn

August 2013 Volume 20 Number 5

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View the most recent issues of • Pittsburgh Senior News • Beaver County Senior News • Butler County Senior News • Allegheny County Senior Resource Guide •Beaver County Senior Resource Guide

Chuck LeClaire/Pittsburgh Senior News

Senior Companion project coordinator John Miller presents a plaque to Senior Companion of the Year Rose Rouse of Familylinks.

Allegheny County Senior Companions honored at annual luncheon In many ways, homebound senior Maria of Dormont feels that her Senior Companion, Cecilia, “is like the sister she never had.” “Our ages are only five months apart and we are dealing many times with similar problems,” Maria says. She looks forward to Cecilia coming by twice a week for a couple of hours.

“We work together on projects or puzzles, and she helps me keep the house in order.

Cecilia provides companionship I don’t get because my family is very limited and they live out of town.”

Cecilia is a volunteer with the Allegheny County Department of Human Services Area Agency on Aging’s

(DHS/AAA) Senior Companion program. Senior Companions are volunteers 55 and older who provide in-home companionship visits to seniors who are homebound, frail or have other special needs. “The goal of the program is to Continued on page 10

Read about Allegheny County Department of Human Services Area Agency on Aging’s new office on page 18.

Learn how to keep teens safe around medicine cabinets on page 22.

Publisher’s Corner

ARE YOU 60 OR OLDER?

DO YOU HAVE TROUBLE FALLING ASLEEP

OR STAYING ASLEEP? OR ARE YOU A GOOD SLEEPER?

Volume 20, Number 5 Published monthly by Pittsburgh Senior News, Inc. P.O. Box 11126 Pittsburgh, PA 15237 (412) 367-2522 www.pittsburghseniornews.com pghseniornews@comcast.net

Owner/Publisher Lynn Webster Can you believe we’re into the month of August already? There’s still plenty of summer left, so enjoy these longer days while they last.

If you’ve been wanting to visit Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum in Oakland, August 21 is a good day to do so, as all seniors will receive free admission on that day.

Editor Gina Mazza The University of Pittsburgh is conducting a research study of people who have trouble sleeping as well as healthy adults who sleep well to learn more about insomnia and how it is affected by a nonmedication treatment.

To be eligible, you must be 60 or older and: • have difficulty falling or staying asleep or feel poorly rested after sleeping • or be a good sleeper at night and not feel sleepy during the daytime By sharing your time and participating, you may be able to help researchers find out more about improving sleep and quality of life in later years.

Participants will be compensated for their time.

For more information, please call toll free, 1-866-647-8283 or e-mail AgeWise@upmc.edu.

Lynn Webster

Helping People Live Life Better!

( 2 2 6 - 5 7 8 7 )

August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

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A DEBT RELIEF AGENCY HELPING PEOPLE FILE FOR RELIEF UNDER U.S BAKRUPTCY CODE

Crossword Puzzle Answer (See page 30)

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Art Director Shantessa Hogan Sales Executive Wallace Webster Photographer Chuck LeClaire Contributing Writers Barbara Bush Judy Dodd Henry Gribbin Gina Mazza Linda Rhodes Printing Company Knepper Press Pittsburgh Senior News is distributed monthly in the Allegheny County area.

Copy­right 2013 by Pittsburgh Senior News, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. All advertisement in Pittsburgh Senior News is subject to the approval of the publisher. Publication of advertising herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement.

In Memory of Carmella M. Hogan John A. Hogan, Sr. Michael J. Hogan, Sr. Wayne Hogan Visit our website at www.pittsburghseniornews.com

View the most recent issues of • Pittsburgh Senior News, • Beaver County Senior News, • Butler County Senior News, • Allegheny County Senior Resource Guide • Beaver County Senior Resource Guide

Better Choices, Better Health

Chronic Disease Self-Management Workshop Do you have an ongoing health condition, such as arthritis, diabetes, chronic pain, high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, asthma, cancer, or any other condition that affects your daily life?

Adults age 60+ are invited to attend a FREE 6-week workshop Designed by Stanford University to help you learn:

• New ways to solve problems • How to manage your symptoms • How to set and achieve goals • How to work with your doctor New classes starting September - October, 2013 in various locations throughout Allegheny County.

Call (412) 361-5003 for details, or visit www.alleghenybetterhealth.org

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August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

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Home meal delivery now available out of Knoxville

T

he availability of home delivered meals is now being offered out of Knoxville. Starting last month, LifeSpan Resources and Services for Seniors began to serve an expanded area, thereby increasing the number of homebound individuals on their roster who can receive meals.

The LifeSpan HDM kitchen, one of four run by LifeSpan in the southern region of the county, is located in the Elder-Ado Building at 320 Brownsville Road, where Lifespan also operates a Senior Resource Center. Two meals are delivered on Mondays and Wednesdays, and one meal is delivered on Fridays between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.

In most cases, meal recipients will be asked for a suggested monetary donation but meal provision is not contingent upon the ability to provide the donation.

and unable to shop or to safely prepare your own meals. If you, a family member, friend or neighbor meet these requirements, call Judy McCrum if you live in the Homestead/Clairton region at (412) 464-1300, ext. 133 or Justine Weber if you live in the Knoxville/ Bridgeville region at (412) 381-6900 and ask for the home-delivered meals department. A short assessment will be completed over the phone.

To be eligible for the program, you must be age 60 or older, a resident of Allegheny County, and homebound

LifeSpan’s goal is to provide consistent service, a balanced meal and a relationship designed to promote well being and independence. Volunteers are welcome in all LifeSpan kitchens to help package meals on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays between the hours of 7:30 and 11:30 a.m. If interested, call the numbers listed above. PSN

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August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

Target Pharmacies are not located in all Target stores, hours vary by location, services of pharmacist may not be available at all times when Target stores are open. Free translation services available. Š2013 Target Brands, Inc. The Bullseye Design and Target are registered trademarks of Target Brands, Inc. 222498

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August 2013

Kane Glen Hazel gets ready for Concerts in the Courtyard

K

ane Glen Hazel will welcome Musicians with a Mission to take part in its “Concerts in the Courtyard” series. The programs will take place on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month, with the first concert scheduled for July 13.

Musicians with a Mission (MWAM) is a group of local musicians who volunteer their time to play at healthcare facilities around the Pittsburgh area. The group, founded by violinist Devin Arrington, has an impressive roster of more than 15 musicians ranging from singers to brass, woodwind and string players. It was founded in 2010, supported by a grant from the Sprout Fund’s Seed Award. MWAM’s mission is to encourage talented musicians to use their gifts to uplift the spirits of residents and their caregivers through music.

“The organization’s philosophy revolves around the idea that among senior individuals, music can provide meaningful stimulation and enjoyment,” says Erin Yanacek, trumpet player and outreach manager for the

August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

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Kane Regional Centers Care and Services No matter what type of care your loved one may need, Kane is dedicated to providing your family with peace of mind by offering our complete personal and professional attention on every level:

Photo provided by Musicians with a Mission

Musicians with a Mission play for residents of Kane Glen Hazel. group. “The opportunity to perform for an appreciative audience is rewarding for classical musicians.”

from the Home Depot Foundation.

Light refreshments will be served at the concerts.

The concert series will allow Kane Glen Hazel to show off its newly renovated courtyard, which was revamped this year, thanks to a grant

For more information, contact Bryan Nicodemus at (412) 422-6773 or bnicodemus@alleghenycounty.us. PSN

• 24-Hour Skilled Nursing Care

• Recreation Therapy

• Short-Term Rehabilitation

• Respite Care

• Adult Education

• Social Services

• Alzheimer’s/Memory Care

Contact Kane Regional Centers

• Community Outings

Phone: (412) 422-KANE (5263)

• Hospice Care

Website: www.kanecare.com

• Pastoral Care

August 2013

Kane Foundation warms up for annual two-mile walk The Kane Foundation will host its second annual Two-Mile Walk at 9 a.m. on Saturday, September 14. The walk will take place along the river by Kane McKeesport. The registration fee is $20 per person, and all proceeds will go to the Kane Foundation.

The four Kane centers—located in Glen Hazel, McKeesport, Ross and Scott—have been caring for southwestern Pennsylvania’s elderly and disabled for more than 50 years. The Kane Foundation was created to raise private funds to enhance the quality of life of the residents. Outings to cultural and sports events, extracurricular activities and improvements to the campuses are just a few examples of the ways that the foundation can positively affect residents’ lives.

The first 50 registrants will receive a free t-shirt, along with anyone who collects $50 in pledges for the Kane Foundation.

Corporate sponsorships for the walk are available. To participate in the walk or become a sponsor, contact Bill LaLonde at (412) 422-6773 or wlalonde@alleghenycounty.us. PSN

Photo provided by William LaLonde

Organizers celebrated the first annual Kane Foundation Walk last August.

Kane residents enjoy fresh, seasonal fruit at annual Cantaloupe Sunday

“Our residents really look forward to the fresh fruit, and we truly appreciate that the church does this for us,” says Kane Ross volunteer coordinator Sue Crump.

The church Sue refers to is Unity Baptist Church in Braddock. In 1935, James Underwood, a deacon of Bethel Baptist Church (as it was called then) began the tradition while visiting a friend in Woodville State Hospital. His friend’s favorite food was cantaloupe, and

Photo taken from www.istockphoto.com

About 1,000 cantaloupes will be served that day, with 15 volunteers helping out, says Dorothy Lee of Wilkinsburg, daughter of James Underwood and chairperson of the event. “We have two men from the church who will go to the Strip District on Saturday and buy the cantaloupes,” she says.

“They will deliver them to the Kane centers so they can keep them cold.”

Cantaloupe Sunday is so well known in Braddock that it is depicted on a mural in the senior center in Braddock, Dorothy notes. PSN

August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

this friend shared his treat with other patients. So the following year, James decided to take enough cantaloupes for every patient. He presented the idea to his church board and they approved sponsoring it.

It’s a tradition that’s been happening at the Kane facilities for 84 years. Cantaloupe Sunday, to be held on August 18, is a popular day when more than 900 residents from all four Kane Regional Centers in Ross, Glen Hazel, Scott and McKeesport come out to share one of summer’s sweetest fruits.

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Entertainment and Events 2 The Polish Cultural Council presents the 82nd annual Polish Day at Kennywood Park on August 6. Dance and sing along with strolling musicians from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The day will also feature a Polish kitchen opening at 11:30 a.m., a bake sale, 50/50 raffle, live performances, a Mass, the crowning of Miss Polonia and a polka dance. Discounted tickets may be purchased in advance by calling (412) 921-0292. For more information, call (412) 486-1605.

2 The Retired Men’s Luncheon Group of Pleasant Hills will meet at noon on August 15 in the Fellowship Hall of the Pleasant Hills Community Presbyterian Church, located at the corner of Old Clairton Road and Audrey Drive in Pleasant Hills. Gregory Kenney will recreate the great Roberto Clemente.

Cost for the lunch is $6. For more information or reservations, call (412) 655-2000 by August 9.

2 Latitude 40 and Celebrity Entertainment present Don Obusek’s Tribute to the Magic of Elvis’ at 3 p.m. on August 18 at Latitude 40, 200 Quinn Dr., Robinson Township. Cost is $10 per person, doors open at 1:30 p.m. Purchase tickets online at www.latitude40pitt.com. Call (412) 331-5897 or visit www.magicofelvis.com for details.

2 The Pittsburgh Banjo Club will perform a free concert at 2:30 p.m. on August 18 at Bethel Park Community Center, 5151 Park Ave, Bethel Park. Call (412) 833-6110 or visit www.bpcf.org/ tower.html. The Pittsburgh Banjo Club appears every Wednesday from 8 to 11 p.m. at the Elks Lodge #339, 400 Cedar Ave., North Side. These rehearsals/ sing-alongs are free and open to the public. Hot food, snacks and beverages are available for purchase. For more information, call (412) 321-1834.

HARRISON HI RISE Senior Apartments 2006 Broadview Blvd., Natrona Heights, PA 15065

2 The Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival will take place weekends from August 24 through September 29. The festival will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. at 112 Renaissance Lane, West Newton, rain or shine. Come dressed in costume or rent one of the costumes available. This medieval amusement park features combat jousting, stages of continuous entertainment, and 80 master artisans featuring juried fine arts and crafts. For the kids, free children’s realm, games, rides and more. Cost is $16.95 for adults, $8 for children five to 12 and free for children under five.

Call (724) 872-1670 or visit http://pittsburghrenfest.com.

2 Learn about the historical significance and monetary value of your family heirlooms at the sixth annual Pittsburgh’s Hidden Treasures event from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. August 25 at the Senator John Heinz History Center, 1212 Smallman St., Strip District. The event is

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August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

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Entertainment and Events free with museum admission, and is free for History Center members. Members also receive special early access from 9 to 10 a.m., before the event opens to the general public. Each visitor is allowed to bring two items for appraisal. These can be of any size that fits through a standard doorway. It is required that visitors be able to move their item(s) through the event on their own. Antique firearms will be permitted, but subject to inspection and restraints before being brought into the History Center. Call (412) 454-6000 or visit www.heinzhistorycenter.org.

2 Join Venture Outdoors for a free afternoon of fun for the whole family from noon to 4 p.m. on August 31 at Allegheny Commons West Park, North Side. Try a Tyke Hike, scaling a climbing wall, paddling a kayak on Lake Elizabeth, using a GPS unit to find secret treasures, biking around the park or participating in crafts and

other activities for kids of all ages. Call (412) 255-0564 or visit www.ventureoutdoors.org for details.

2 The 23rd annual Pittsburgh Irish Festival will be held September 6 to 8 at the Riverplex at Sandcastle, 1000 Sandcastle Dr., West Homestead. Enjoy live entertainment, Irish dog area, Irish marketplace, children’s activities, Blarney bingo, demonstrations, beverage tasting and more. Call (412) 422-1113 or visit www.pghirishfest.org.

2 The annual Penn’s Colony Festival and Folk Art Marketplace will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. September 21 and 28 and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

September 22 and 29 at Penn’s Colony Village, 365 Saxonburg Blvd, Saxonburg. The festival features artists and musical entertainment reminiscent of the historic time period of the French and Indian War. Cost is $7 for general admission, $6 for seniors ages 60 and

older and $5 for children ages eight to 15; free for children ages seven and younger. Call (724) 352-9922 or www. pennscolony.com.

2 The 2013 Pittsburgh Senior Prom will take place from 5 to 10 p.m.

September 29 at the Doubletree by Hilton, 500 Mansfield Ave., Robinson Township. Tickets are $40 per person and includes a night of health education, food, dancing, fun and prizes.

Call (412) 231-1531 or (412) 323-3854 for details.

2 Glenshaw AARP #3744 will host a trip to Nashville, TN., October 2 to 5. Cost of trip is $750 per person and includes three nights’ accommodations (two at Gaylord’s Opryland Hotel), three breakfasts, two lunches, three dinners, three shows, tours and attractions, baggage handling, taxes and gratuities. Call (412) 487-1609. PSN

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August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

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Allegheny County Senior Companions honored at annual luncheon Continued from page 1 provide support that allows the older adult to remain living independently at home,” says project coordinator John Miller of DHS/AAA. According to a consumer survey administered by program staff in May and June 2013, 94 percent of program participants said they are eating regular meals and are more satisfied with their lives as a result of having a Senior Companion; and 95 percent agreed that they feel less lonely as result of having a Senior Companion. “I am very happy with my Companion,” shares John from Homewood. “I am able to eat my meals, get to appointments and go grocery shopping with her help.

If I didn’t have a Companion, I’m not sure I could remain in my home due to my health issues.”

The Senior Companion program also provides respite for caregivers. Dorothy of Bellevue requires 24-hour care. Her daughter, Ann, lives with Dorothy; she furnishes her meals, takes her to doctor appointments and generally takes care of her needs.

“The Senior Companion allows me some time to grocery shop, run errands and do other things that I would not be able to do without Bonnie,” Ann comments. “I am mostly confined to the house to be with my mother, except for Senior Companion time.

Bonnie is extremely competent with Mother’s care, so I am able to leave my mother in good hands, which gives me less stress.

I am 73 years old myself, so Bonnie helps me, also.”

Site supervisors Dorothy Bellowicz, Lena Natalia, John Ayers, Lindsey Blocki, Marsha Charlie and Nancy Jones.

On July 10, DHS/AAA hosted its annual Senior Companion program recognition luncheon. The event recognizes and thanks Senior Companions like Cecilia and Bonnie who provide countless hours of caring services to as many as 500 isolated older adults each year throughout Allegheny County.

August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

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WTAE Channel 4 news anchor Mike Clark served as master of ceremonies, and the program opened with welcoming remarks from John Miller and Joe Barker from DHS/AAA. Local comedian Deidre Lesesne (Comma’ Dee) entertained the crowd with her witty and keen observations and provided

Advisory Council members Joan Pronio, Dr. R. Helen Ference and Eunice Nelson.

What Senior Companions do and don’t do: 8 They do not provide medical care, do housekeeping, mow the lawn, shovel snow, or other things that are more appropriately done by a paid professional. They are not home health aides or housekeepers.

3 They can take an individual to doctor’s appointments and other outings utilizing public transportation or shared ride services, but cannot transport the person in their own car.

8 Senior Companions are not to be involved with finances in any way (paying bills, for example).

3 The typical Senior Companion visit is for three to four hours, generally once a week.

3 All Senior Companions undergo criminal background checks, physical exams and TB tests, and a thorough screening and interview process before placed with participants.

3 Senior Companions receive a small stipend.

many laughs. After a delicious lunch, Michele Traficante from the office of State Senator Jay Costa, Jr. read the official proclamation for the Senior Companion program, and Advisory Council chairperson Dr. Helen Ference announced the milestones of service awards. Mike Clark then recognized the volunteer station supervisors and advisory council members for their contributions to the program.

The recipient of the 2013 Senior Companion of the Year is Rose Rouse, 75, of North Versailles. Rose has been active with the program since 2004 through her partner agency, Familylinks.

Rose was nominated because she exemplifies the spirit of the Senior Companion program, shares her supervisor Ray Sapienza of Familylinks. “Rose always has a smile on her face and a positive attitude. She genuinely cares for the participants that she is assigned to and goes above and beyond the requirements of her position by maintaining close contact with family members so that she can alert them to any changes in the needs of their loved ones.” Rose’s co-workers add that she has a unique ability to maintain a professional demeanor while exhibiting the warmth and generous spirit of a friend. She is intuitive, proactive and dedicated to the integrity of the program.

Please note: The wait time to receive a Senior Companion varies based on where you live. Some parts of the county have a limited number of Senior Companions and, as such, participants living in these parts of the county will wait longer to receive a Senior Companion. In general, the typical wait time from the time you request a Senior Companion to the time you are connected with one varies from a minimum of two weeks to two or three months. PSN Senior Companion service awards The following Senior Companions were recognized at the annual luncheon: Five years of service: Ida Alexander, Maureen Delancey, Maureen Finch, George Jackson, Regina Lee and Sandra Magaw.

Ten years of service: Janet Buch, Barbara Dickerson, Lelia Green, Beverly Hunter, Mercia O’Neil and Tom Simpson.

“I was surprised and very happy,” Rose says about receiving the reward. “I have always been a person who enjoys being with seniors, even when I was young.” Rose took care of her father for eight years before he passed away at age 94. Prior to retiring in 2002, she worked as a PCB board operator for Compunetix in Monroeville; before that, she worked for Eastern Area Adult Services in Turtle Creek as an information and referral specialist and nutrition coordinator. “I gained lots of valuable experience working with older adults in that job,” she comments.

Recognized for five years of service: Ida Alexander, Maureen Finch, George Jackson and Regina Lee.

“My Senior Companion is very, very good,” concludes Stacey of the South Side, another participant in the program. “She goes with me when I have to go out. She helps me to walk right and get done with what has to be done. She is like an angel that God has sent to me. I love her very much. She even comes to the hospital to see me. I thank God for her.”

To volunteer: The Senior Companion program is currently recruiting Senior Companions to serve consumers in the North Hills area of Allegheny County, including North Side, Millvale, Etna, Sharpsburg, Shaler, O’Hara, Cheswick, Springdale, Bellevue, Avalon, Reserve, Ross, McCandless and other communities. If you are interested in helping older adults and willing to travel to these areas, call John Miller at (412) 350-4061.

To apply to receive services from the Senior Companion program: Call (412) 350-4258.

Recognized for 10 years of service: Barbara Dickerson, Lelia Green, Mercia O’Neil and Tom Simpson.

Photos by Chuck LeClaire for Pittsburgh Senior News

August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

Rose stays very active in her retirement. In addition to being a Senior Companion, she is an avid crafter of Steelers-related crafts items, which she distributes to nursing home residents.

She sings in her church choir and participates in a Christian book marker ministry; to date, she has given out 19,000 book markers. “My family’s trying to get me to slow down, but I like to keep busy,” she shares.

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Homestead’s history boasts four female Olympic medalists

By Henry Gribbon For Pittsburgh Senior News

Y

ears ago, whenever the town of Homestead, Pennsylvania was mentioned, people automatically thought of steel mills. At one time, however, Homestead was also home to one of the most dominating swim teams in the country.

The Homestead Carnegie Library Athletic Club saw four of its young ladies

Sports card of Homestead’s Anna Mae Gorman, Olympics 1932.

August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

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compete in two separate Olympics. In 1928, Susan Laird and Josephine McKim represented their country in the Olympics held in Amsterdam. Josephine brought home a bronze medal in the 400-meter free style. In the 1932 Olympics held in Los Angeles, Anna Mae Gorman, Lenore Kight and Joesphine all swam. Lenore took second in the 400-meter free style while Josephine was a member of the gold, winning the 4 x 100 meter free style relay team.

Homestead swimmer Lenore Kight at the 1936 Berlin Olympics.

Also, from 1933 through 1936, four swimmers from the same athletic club (Anna Mae, Johanna Gorman, Louise Clark and Lenore) were National Champions in the 400-yard free style relay. At one time during this stretch the four ladies set a world’s record in this event.

The coach of this powerful little swim club was a fellow by the name of Jack Scarry. It was an amazing bit of coaching to have four ladies make it to the

Homestead swim coach Jack Scarry, circa 1934.

Photos taken from http://explorepahistory.com.

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Olympics and win three medals. Jack not only coached the swim team, he was also athletic director for the entire club.

Olympics, she married Russ Lindberg, a well known collegiate swimmer from the University of Pittsburgh.

She went on to say that she was very proud of swimming in the 1932 Olympics. She was only 16 at the time, but in her opinion her most crowning achievement came in later years when she attended the University of Pittsburgh.

I had a chance to talk with Anna Mae. When I asked her how a swim club in a town such as Homestead could be so proficient in turning out top notch swimmers, she said, “In those days, if a youngster excelled in a sport, he or she stayed home and trained locally.

No one would ever think of picking up roots and moving so that a child might receive better coaching or train in better facilities.”

In 1976, on her 60th birthday, she graduated magna cum laude. To top it off, later that same evening she and her husband were both inducted into the Western Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame.

She agreed with me that if a young swimmer in this day and age excelled at the sport, the whole family would probably have to move to Florida or Southern California, which are the hotbeds of swimming and diving clubs.

Going back to the swim club, I asked her why no other swimmers had as much success as she and the other ladies had. She told me that shortly after the 1932 Olympics, Jack took ill and had to cut back on his coaching duties.

Anna Mae had nothing but praise for the man. PSN

I must say that Anna Mae is a most interesting person. Years after the

Watershed festival is fun for all ages The region’s only watershed festival will take place at the ALCOSAN open house from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on September 21 rain or shine. Free and open to the public, the national award winning event highlights include hands-on environmental activities and exhibits for all ages. New this year is mini-workshops and an ask the plumber booth. The event also includes examining plants and reptiles that depend on a clean watershed, fish in an virtual stream, Environmental Jeopardy, bike bowling, pollution prevention and microbiology booths, tour a virtual sewer line, and much more.

There will be giveaways, food, and a special appearance by Radio Disney. For more information about activities and directions, visit www. alcosan.org or call the event hotline at (412) 732-8002. PSN

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August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

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Soldiers & Sailors extends free admission to seniors on August 21

Free bus trip for World War II and Korean veterans

Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum Trust will recognize the contributions that older adults make in communities throughout Pennsylvania by offering free admission for all seniors on Wednesday, August 21, which is National Senior Citizens Day.

Soldiers & Sailors National Senior Citizens Free Admission Day is Wednesday, August 21 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. All seniors are welcome to visit and enjoy the memorial that is dedicated to paying tribute to those men and women of Pennsylvania who unselfishly gave of themselves in serving their country during the American wars.

October 1st is the next date for a one day FREE bus trip to Washington DC to visit the National WWII Memorial, Korean War Memorial and time permitting the Iwo Jima Memorial. The trip is for WWII and Korean War Veterans. The goal is to fill every seat with a Veteran and therefore we are unable to accommodate family or friends. There is a nurse on each bus as well as several assistants.

Soldiers & Sailors is the nation’s only military museum dedicated to honoring the men and women of all branches of service, and in all capacities (Active, Reserve, Guard). The museum offers a unique look into American history by telling the stories of the individuals that served our country through military equipment and personal mementos, as well as detailing the effects our military conflicts have had on society. To learn more, call (412) 621-4253 or visit www. soldiersandsailorshall.org. PSN

Boxed meals are provided and wheelchairs available for those who need them. There are four pick up sites: Beaver, Ross Park Mall (North Hills), Parkway Center Mall (Greentree) and Miracle Mile Shopping Center (Monroeville). Donations are gratefully accepted to make these trips possible.

Checks can be made payable to WWII Veterans Memorial Bus Trip and mailed to ESB Bank, Corporation St., Beaver, Pa. 15009 (Attn: Paula). For more information and/or reservations, call (724) 709-3614. PSN

“We are happy to take part in National Senior Citizens Day and open our historic memorial and museum to the seniors in our region,” says president and CEO John McCabe. “This is a way of showing our appreciation and giving something back to all seniors both veterans and civilians.”

In 1988, President Ronald Reagan declared August 21 to be National Senior Citizens Day, in honor of older Americans who have made positive contributions in their communities. The day was also created to bring awareness of social, health and economic issues that affect seniors.

Gable Ridge

August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

14

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u

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New technologies enable DHS/AAA staff to better serve older adults by working remotely in local communities and meeting seniors where they live

By Gina Mazza For Pittsburgh Senior News There’s no question that new technologies like smartphones and laptops have made the work world— and the world in general—more mobile. Staffers at the Allegheny County Department of Human Services Area Agency on Aging (DHS/ AAA) are no exception. This increased mobility allows the staff to better serve older adults because they can go where seniors are in the community and work more efficiently while there.

Chuck LeClaire/Pittsburgh Senior News

Ombudsman Paul Naiditch checks on older adults in nursing and personal care homes across Allegheny County.

software program makes tracking everything easy, and I can write my case reports remotely. That’s a big benefit because it means I don’t have to travel back to the Agency office, fight traffic and find parking.

It gives me more time to spend with the consumers doing what I have to do.”

transitioning from long-term care or hospitals. At the same time, our field staff stay in close touch with their supervisors and the office throughout the day because the technology enables them to quickly reach co-workers, make referrals and address questions or immediate needs that arise.”

“Many of our staff spend much of their day in the community and just use the Agency office as a ‘hoteling site’,” explains DHS/AAA deputy administrator Mary Phan-Gruber.

“Most of our work happens in the community—in people’s homes, at senior centers, visiting folks who are

Most of DHS/AAA aging care manager Jennifer Sestina’s work is going out to people in the community, as well. She performs level of care assessments at hospitals, nursing homes and personal care homes, Continued on page 16 Volume 4, Issue 12

August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

Take, for example, the typical schedule of Paul Naiditch, who is a care manager in the DHS/ AAA Ombudsman Program. (The primary role of an Ombudsman is to assure quality care with respect and dignity for all seniors residing in long-term care facilities, as well as those who utilize adult day services, domiciliary care and community based care programs.) Paul starts his day by checking emails. He then uses his laptop computer to prepare documentation and review the cases he will be handling that day.

“I map out the facilities that I need to visit—I may check on residents at three to five personal care or nursing homes, DOM care facilities or adult day care centers on any given day—then I take off in my car about 9:30 a.m.,” Paul explains. “I may finish up around 3 or 4 p.m., and I use the last hour or so of my day to retrieve voice mails and emails, all from my laptop. Using a special

15

New technologies enable DHS/AAA staff to better serve older adults by working remotely in local communities and meeting seniors where they live Continued from page 15

as well as in the residences of those who are seeking in-home services.

“Every day is different for me and I have a multitude of people who I visit throughout Allegheny County,” she says. “I can be at a nursing home in McKeesport in the morning then travel to a personal care home in Monroeville or Squirrel Hill in the afternoon. Wherever I’m assigned is where I go that day.”

Jennifer is comfortable using technology to perform her daily tasks.

“I use my laptop to write up my assessments. I download the forms online. An air card gives me Internet access wherever I am. Throughout the day, I can use my mobile phone to contact my consumers and supervisors. I go into the office only every other day to drop off my cases and pick up new cases.”

August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

16

As Paul points out above, greater efficiency allows staffers to spend more quality time with the older adults they serve. This is vitally important for DHS/AAA Ombudsmen, as their role requires them to become a familiar, trusted face in the facilities they visit. Often requests for help come through the DHS/AAA SeniorLine, the county’s resource for information about and access to services provided by the DHS/AAA and its community based providers. “Of course, I follow up on SeniorLine calls from residents and their relatives, but I don’t wait for calls to come in; I’m more proactive in that the majority of my cases are

Chuck LeClaire/Pittsburgh Senior News

Staff member Jennifer Sestina is able to reduce her time in the office and increase time meeting with seniors by using technology.

generated just by visiting older adults and checking things out,” explains Paul, who has been an Ombudsman for eight years. “When I’m in a facility, I actively look for new cases. Yesterday, for example, I had five assigned cases but I opened up three more.

“How I personally work is like this,” he continues. “I first check in with the administrative staff of the facility, who all know me by now. To the residents, however, at first, I’m a stranger coming into the nursing home. They don’t know if I’m trying to sell them something, or if I’m a doctor, or a priest or rabbi. Instead of throwing in another word—Ombudsman—that might confuse them, I just introduce myself and

say I’m with the Area Agency on Aging. I ask how they’re doing today and start a casual conversation. I ask if they have any concerns and if they’re being treated okay. I may notice that a resident is hard of hearing, so I inquire if they’ve been checked for a hearing aid. Or I may notice that a resident isn’t touching their food tray, only to learn that they can’t eat the chopped food because they’re on a pureed diet.

I look at their hygiene, their hands and nails; maybe they would like to have their nails trimmed. Unkempt hair and facial hair on a woman is a dignity issue, so I gently ask if they’d like to have a bit of grooming. Being able to be this routinely visible Volume 4, Issue 12

As reported in Pittsburgh Senior News last month, more than 3,000 Allegheny County residents have been enrolled in the DHS/AAA Nursing Home Transition program, which serves seniors and families who need a bit of assistance overcoming barriers to leaving a nursing home and returning home. The program serves an average of 18 to 24 participants being transitioned home each month—a process that begins when individuals are still in the nursing home. The staff, that works with 100 to 120 consumers every month, primarily does so in long-term care facilities; they are also in the community helping seniors with things like locating housing, securing assistance with home modifications that will make their new space livable, and even finding furniture and appliances for their new residence, as needed. “We reach deep into the community to ensure that candidates for NHT are given an opportunity to participate,” explained Gaoying Bolinger, Aging Care Management supervisor, in last month’s column. “We have a very good relationship with nursing home social workers and outreach staff.” In addition, NHT staff are able to work as effectively as they do in the field because of the electronic tools available to them.

Cassandra Williams started with the Agency taking calls on SeniorLine; for the past three years, she has worked as an Ombudsman like Paul. Her schedule is just as mobile.

Don Thomas takes a call on SeniorLine.

The SeniorLine call center serves anyone who needs aging services information.

Spacious new training rooms.

Photos by Chuck LeClaire for Pittsburgh Senior News

“I’m in the office one day a week doing phone coverage or going to staff meetings but, other than that, I’m on the road,” she says. “I cover 10 DOM care homes, 14 nursing homes and 27 personal care homes in the Mon Valley region—usually

visiting two to three facilities in one day. I may receive a call from a resident who I monitor or their relative saying they’re having a problem and can I please come out and speak with them. It could be something like the nurse aid is being too forceful or disrespectful to them, or occasionally, more substantial concerns arise that need to be investigated.

“If it’s a complaint, I’m not permitted to say who called me into the facility and, for that reason, I take my time and visit eight or 10 residents.

I knock on their doors, introduce myself, explain my position and ask if there’s anything I can help them with. During that time, I also visit the person who called; I let them know I’m the person they or their relative called for, and I get their permission to look into the complaint. They may change their mind about the complaint, and that’s okay. If they say no, that’s it. If they say yes, I will speak with the administrator or the appropriate person and try to resolve it. It takes two or three hours to go around the facility. I take my time so I can get a good feel for what’s going on.”

“If it’s a case of abuse, neglect or exploitation, I am required to report it to DHS/AAA’s Protective Services, which investigates all reports of abuse, neglect [including self-neglect], abandonment and financial exploitation involving older adults. It also provides assistance to alleviate the risk of harm.”

The use of technology such as cell phones and laptops allows DHS/ AAA field staff to spend more time in the community serving Allegheny County seniors and responding to their needs. PSN Volume 4, Issue 12

August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

to residents gives them a level of trust and comfort. In fact, in some facilities, I walk in and the residents come right up to me and open up about problems or concerns. I then can spend my time helping to resolve whatever issues they have.”

17

DHS/AAA relocates its main offices

A

fter its landlord at 441 Smithfield Street made other plans for the building, DHS/AAA relocated its offices on June 3 to the South Side of Pittsburgh.

With this move, all three offices—previously located in McKeesport, Carnegie and downtown—were consolidated into one. While the staff of the Senior Companion Program and Senior Training and Employment Program remains at the downtown location at One Smithfield Street (for convenience and ease of transportation for the participants), everyone else is now working out of the new site at 2100 Wharton Street.

The design and inherent technology of the new offices ties in nicely with the mobile way that the field staff now works. “Because so many of our staff work remotely, meeting program participants where they live and service providers where they work, we’ve been able to create a space that is less office-intensive and more open,” says Erin Cosgrove, DHS/AAA project manager for the relocation. “The design includes drop-in stations on the second floor, which, along with identifying drop in locations in other areas throughout the county, will allow our field staff to electronically connect with the main office. Not having to physically come to the office as often increases the efficiency of their work.”

August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

18

The new office design also reflects how Allegheny County residents often interact with the Agency. “Seniors and families are welcome to visit our office to inquire about services, although they have other choices as well, including by phone to the SeniorLine, through the website or email,” explains DHS/AAA administrator Mildred Morrison. “Many of our contacts with individuals throughout the county are now through some form of technology. Once someone makes that first contact, right away we’re setting them up with a staff member in the field who can do an assessment, or an agency provider who can arrange services, which enhances the efficiency and quality of the service to the public.” At the same time, the staff from each program offered by the Agency take turns in the office on a daily basis to handle new referrals, calls or quickly address any concerns. The assessment unit, for example, always has an “of the day” person in the office who can quickly dispatch folks in the field, as needed, to handle immediate needs.

A more mobile staff means that less square footage and less permanent office space is required; instead, hoteling spaces can be rotated among the field staff

Chuck LeClaire/Pittsburgh Senior News

The lobby at 2100 Wharton Street on the South Side.

of about 80 people. “This open environment supports a more collaborative work environment and increased interactions among the staff,” Erin comments. “It actually frees up space for more meeting and training rooms for the staff and our agency contracted providers.”

Other amenities of the new office space include windows that extend the entire length of the floor—thereby taking full advantage of natural light—as well as softer, indirect lighting, Wi-Fi, environmentally friendly carpeting and “sound masking”, which “creates a level of white noise in the open areas that scrambles voices so you’re not easily distracted,” Erin describes.

The new office’s technology also includes a Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) phone system that enables office and field staff to retrieve voice messages via audio files on their laptop computers, among other benefits.

“We are one of the first departments in the [Allegheny County] Department of Human Services to switch from analog to digital,” Erin says.

The goal of incorporating all of these technologies, of course, is to improve the efficiency and delivery of services to seniors. Communicating via email and transitioning from paper files to electronic files using scanning, for example, offer more flexibility and speed, as Erin points out. “These capabilities support even greater efficiency in the office and the field, and represent a long-term cost savings to the Agency.” PSN DHS/AAA’s phone and fax numbers, as well as email addresses, remain the same. For more information, call SeniorLine at (412) 350-5460.

Volume 4, Issue 12

Thursday, August 1: Roast beef sandwich, spinach salad, orzo with peas and corn, apple.

Friday, August 2: Springs and meatballs, tossed salad, cantaloupe cubes.

Monday, August 5: Macaroni and cheese, vegetable blend, mandarin oranges.

Tuesday, August 6: Chipped turkey breast, sweet and sour slaw, confetti pasta, watermelon cuts.

Wednesday, August 7: Sweet and sour pork, tossed salad, brown rice, graham crackers.

Thursday, August 8: Cold meatloaf sandwich, corn and black bean salad, beet slices, banana.

Friday, August 9: Chicken paprika leg and thigh, leaf spinach, baked yam, nectarine.

Monday, August 12: Shredded barbecue pork, oven browned potatoes, Chesapeake corn & tomatoes, apricots.

Tuesday, August 13: Snow white turkey salad, tomato wedges, triple bean salad, apple, orange gelatin.

Wednesday, August 14, Birthday menu: Beef stew, beet slices, brown rice, brownie with butterscotch chips.

Thursday, August 15: Chicken dinner salad, copper carrot coins, watermelon cubes.

Friday, August 16: Rigatoni, tossed salad, orange.

Monday, August 19: Meatball sandwich, scalloped potatoes, wax beans, mandarin oranges.

Tuesday, August 20: Chicken pasta salad, cantaloupe cubes, oatmeal-raisin cookie.

Wednesday, August 21: Stuffed cabbage roll, whipped potatoes, carrot coins, watermelon cubes.

Thursday, August 22: Cold roast beef with Swiss cheese, potato salad, sweet and sour cucumbers, nectarine.

Friday, August 23: Chili, tossed salad, brown rice, sugar cookies.

Monday, August 26: Hearty chicken cacciatore, leaf spinach, pineapple tidbits.

Tuesday, August 27: Turkey sandwich, pasta primavera, copper carrot coins, sliced peaches.

Wednesday, August 28: Beef hamburger, parsley potatoes, baked beans, cherry gelatin.

Thursday, August 29: Tuna salad, confetti rice salad, marinated cucumber slices, orange.

Friday, August 30: Meatloaf with gravy, mashed potatoes, wax beans, nectarine.

This menu is for senior centers and home-delivered meals funded in part by the DHS AAA. Centers are open Monday through Friday. Call (412) 350-5460.

Allegheny County Department of Human Services

Area Agency on Aging

Birmingham Towers, 2100 Wharton St., Second Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15203 Serving the older adults of Allegheny County Rich Fitzgerald, Allegheny County Executive William McKain, Allegheny County Manager Marc Cherna, Director Mildred E. Morrison, Administrator FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: Contact Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging’s SeniorLine at (412) 350-5460; Toll Free – 1 (800) 344-4319; TDD – (412) 350-2727

or visit www.alleghenycounty.us/dhs/aaa.

Information and Assistance Service Partner Agencies At Senior Community Centers Allentown Senior Center (412) 481-5484 Catholic Youth Association (412) 621-3342 Citiparks (412) 422-6570 Eastern Area Adult Services, Inc. (412) 829-9250 Elder-ado, Inc. (412) 381-6900 Hill House Association Senior Services (412) 392-4450 Jewish Community Center (412) 521-8010

SOCIAL SERVICES Information and Referral Care Management Adult Day Services Adult Foster Care Home Delivered Meals Home Health Services Personal Care/ Home Support Services Protective Services Long Term Living Counseling Health Insurance Counseling Family Caregiver Support Companions for Homebound Nursing Home Resident Advocacy

LifeSpan, Inc. (412) 464-1300 Lutheran Service Society (412) 734-9330 Northern Area Multi-Service Center (412) 781-1176 Penn Hills Senior Center (412) 244-3400 Plum Senior Community Center (412) 795-2330 Riverview Community Action Corp.

(412) 828-1062 Seton Center, Inc. (412) 344-4777 Vintage, Inc. (412) 361-5003

SENIOR CENTER SERVICES Education Programs Exercise and Fitness Volunteer Opportunities Social and Recreational Programs Congregate Meals Legal Services Assistance in Applying for Benefit Programs Health Insurance Counseling

Volume 4, Issue 12

August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

August Menu

19

Caring for the Caregiver A Q&A with Gallagher Home Health Services Q: How was Gallagher Home Health Services founded?

A: In 2004, Diane Karcz, RN and her brother, Gary J. Gallagher, created this agency in honor of their mother, Iva R. Gallagher. They wanted to follow in her footsteps and “treat everyone like family.” Using this motto to guide them, the business has grown from three employees to 103, and one patient to an average daily census over 600. Gallagher Home Health Services has been named to the “Home Care Elite” every year since its inception, with top scores in improving patient outcomes and our community set us apart from our competitors.

Q: What is the difference between Home Health Services and Home Care Services?

A: Home Health Services include skilled care such as skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational and speech therapy, social services, home health aide

visits and mental health nursing (these are intermittent skilled visits provided in patients’ homes to help them recover from an illness, surgery or other medical condition). Home Care Services are typically non-medical services to help patients stay in their home safely, such as bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, companion, homemaking, medication reminder and more. Care can be provided in hours, visits or shifts in the home.

Q: Who typically pays for both Home Health and Home Care Services?

A: Home Health Services must be ordered by a physician and are paid for

by Medicare, Medicaid and a variety of commercial insurances. The recipient must meet certain criteria that may include homebound status to qualify for services. Home Care Services can be paid for through private pay, PDA Waiver, VA Services and most longterm care insurance policies.

Home Care

Q: When looking for Home Health or Home Care Services, what are some important questions patients and their families should ask?

A: Is the provider licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Health?

Are caregivers bonded and insured?

What type of screening process does the agency require? How does the provider select and train their caregivers? Does the agency provide nurses to oversee the care clients are receiving in their homes? How does the agency compare to its competitors? Does the agency have a patient advocate to serve its clients? Does the agency provide a free nursing assessment to its potential clients? PSN For more information on Gallagher Home Health Services, call (412) 2797800; to learn more about Gallagher Home Care Services, call (412) 279-2257 or visit www.gallagherhhs.com.

Services

A Division of Gallagher Home Health Services

We’ll take care of you like family . . .

August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

20

because those are the values instilled in us by our Mom Iva Gallagher Our Mom, Our Motivation

Gallagher Home Care can provide you with the Medical or NonMedical services you need to stay in your home safely. Over 5,000 people have trusted us to provide their care and you can too.

Care can be Provided in Hours, Visits or Shifts • Personal Care • Bathing, Dressing, Grooming, Toileting • May include Companion & Homemaking Services • Companions • Medication Management

• • • • •

Homemaking Private Duty Nursing or Home Health Aides PDA and VA Services Long Term Care Insurances Worker’s Compensation

For information on Gallagher Home Care Services contact:

Katie Poeschel, Director of Home Care Development

(412) 279-2257 412-279-2257

Kpoeschel@gallagherhhs.com

Our Home Health Division can provide you with Skilled Services ordered by your physician and generally paid for by your insurance company.

This may include: • • • • • • •

Skilled Nursing Mental Health Nursing

Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy Speech Therapy Social Work Home Health Aides

Do you have questions?

Call us at

412-279-7800 Or visit us at

www.Gallagherhhs.com

Senior Apartment Accepting Applications One bedroom, full appliances, W/W, A/C, off street parking Income limits apply Call (412) 362-2040 or stop by the Management office at 5601 Penn Avenue Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Milliones Manor Apartments 2827 Bedford Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15219

• Card Entry Access ‑ Intercom System

• All household members must be 62 years of age or older.

• Income restrictions apply.

Don’t wait, call today! (412) 824-9000

1015 Crucible St. West End, PA 15220

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Come see all that we have to offer!

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Remember when gum was a penny?

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Uptown Ebenezer Tower Apartments 420 Dinwiddie Street, Pgh, PA. 15219 62 Years or Older or Mobility Impaired • 1 Bedroom Apartments • W/W Carpet • Balcony • Card Entry Access Intercom TV System • Central Air and Heat • Utilities Included • Equipped Kitchen • Laundry Facilities on Each Floor • 24 Hour Emergency Maintenance • Public Transportation at Corner

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Mon.-Fri. 9 am to 5 pm EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

Lloyd McBride Court 614 Lincoln Ave. Millvale, PA 15209 • Affordable housing for seniors 62 years of age and older.

3000 Locust St., Pittsburgh, PA 15221 Hours: Mon-Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

John Paul Plaza 62 years of age and older

Each unit features • wall-to-wall carpet • individually controlled heat and AC • large storage areas • pantry • linen closet • an intercom system • emergency pull cord devices in every bedroom and bathroom • secured doors with spring locks & peep holes • Handicapped accessible

1005 Herron Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15219 (412) 683-5850

Laurentian Hall Apartments

36 Bed Personal Care Facility Barrier-free Access 211 GARNIER STREET SHARPSBURG, PA 15215

412-784-8344 Auba Senior Citizens’ Apartments Located in the Hill District, efficiency and one bedroom apartments available • Located on bus line • Laundry facilities • All utilities included • Convenient to health care facilities, cultural activities and shopping • Section 8 vouchers accepted Must be 55 years of age or older Contact (412)

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Tiffany Apartments

Homewood House Apartments

Lovely updated units.

1BR $590-620+e includes central AC & heat. Elevator, laundry, social room. Parking garage available.

Now accepting applications

Wood Towers Apartments

810 Wood St., Wilkinsburg Now accepting applications 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Monday thru Friday

• One bedroom • Section 8 Certified Housing • 62 Years of Age or if disabled must be mobility or sensory impaired • On-site management • Central air and heat • Laundry facility • Balcony • Intercom system • Community room

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Rent is 30% of Income

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laundry facilities, and community room.

7130 Frankstown Avenue • 62 Years or Physically Disabled 18 and over • Access to Public Transportation • Balcony • 1 Bedroom Apartment • WW Carpeting • Rent based on Section 8 • Equipped Kitchen • White Sheer Drapes • Laundry Facilities • Intercom System • On-Site Management • Community Room • Outside Sitting Areas

412-242-0273 www.steiner-reality.com

• Individual Controlled Heat & Air Conditioner • Off Street Parking Call (412)

244-8161

August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

East Liberty -

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http://crossgatespropertymanagement.com

21

Grandma’s medicine cabinet and teens: a deadly duo?

The 33 percent spike in teen prescription drug abuse over the past five years can be attributed to a range of factors: kids seeing commercials on the benefits of medications, the belief among teens that if a doctor prescribes a drug and grandma can handle it then it must be safe, the lack of vigilance and warnings among parents over prescription drugs as opposed to street drugs, and the easy accessibility of the family medicine cabinet.

By Dr. Linda Rhodes For Pittsburgh Senior News

P

rescription medicines are now the most commonly abused drugs among 12 to 13-year-olds and exceeds the abuse of ecstasy, crack, cocaine, heroin and meth combined among 12 to 17 year olds. One out of four teens report having abused using a prescription drug in their lifetime and three out of four will tell you they got those drugs from home and friends.

Grandparents—an age group known to take multiple prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs—can become an easy, unsuspecting supply source, especially if the medicine cabinet is stocked with pain pills like Vicodin and OxyContin, anti-anxiety drugs like Xanax, sleeping pills like Ambien, diuretics like Lasix (teens use them to lose weight) and over-the-counter drugs that contain pseudoephedrine like Sudafed and common cold medicines.

Photo taken from www.istockphoto.com

Taking any of these drugs too frequently or too much and combining them with alcohol at parties can spell disaster. Three thousand young adults died from Rx drug overdose in 2010— that’s eight per day.

So lets talk about what’s in your hands if you suspect a grandchild taking drugs from your medicine cabinet.

Most grandparents and grandchildren enjoy a special bond that allows them more give and take than with mom and dad. An older generation that’s seen it all has the “props” (slang for respect) to lend advice to kids who want to see it all. If you share this type of bond, let’s say, with your granddaughter, you don’t want to lose her trust or channels of communication by outright confronting or accusing her.

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August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

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Dr. Jane Greer, a family therapist who advises the Partnership at Drugfree. org urges grandparents not to be judgmental or critical in their approach but rather give teens the space to explain themselves. If you listen rather than lecture, you may learn the underlying circumstances and reasons she’s turning to prescription drugs.

Dr. Susan Bartell, a psychologist on parenting who also advises the

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Call (412) 321-2460 steelworkers@ehdoc.org

Partnership would further counsel you to tell your granddaughter that her parents need to know: Offer to talk to her parents with her and role play how you will tell them. Explain to your grandchild that “I love you and I want you to be safe and that’s most important. If I don’t tell your mom or dad there’s a chance you could get in trouble or get hurt or die and I’d be responsible for that.”

Store your drugs in drawers that aren’t accessible to others or in a locked cabinet, get rid of all expired drugs, keep an inventory of your prescriptions by counting the pills and monitor usage, and have conversations with your teens warning them of the dangers of taking prescription drugs, as well as street drugs.

And when you›re having “that talk”, be aware that two other drugs teens are reaching for are the stimulants Adderall and Ritalin both prescribed for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity

Call 412-563-6566 or visit www.baptisthomes.org

Dr. Linda Rhodes is a former Secretary of Aging for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and is Director of the Hirtzel Institute on Health Education and Aging at Mercyhurst University.

She can be reached at rhodescaregiving@gmail.com.

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Be sure to check out the Grandparent Tool Box at Theparenttoolkit.org and reach out to your local pharmacist to identify pills you may have found and suspect your grandchild is taking.

Ask them about any drug “take back” programs they may offer to dispose of expired drugs. PSN

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Disorder (ADHD). Kids rarely find them in their grandparent’s medicine cabinets but they sure do among their friends who have been prescribed the medication and are willing to share, swap or sell. Teens report taking it so they can concentrate for major tests, study all night, get high and/or lose weight.

(Mt. Oliver)

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August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

Instead, take an inventory of your pills before and after she visits (or anyone for that matter) to see if pills are turning up missing. If they are, then you have no choice but to approach your granddaughter. In this instance, be honest as to how you’ve been worried about her. If you’ve seen changes in her behavior such as acting withdrawn, hyper, declining grades or performance in sports, drowsiness or angry outbursts then share your observations with her as evidence sparking your concern.

23

AMA deems obesity a “disease”

By Judy Dodd, MS, RD, LDN Giant Eagle Nutrition Specialist For Pittsburgh Senior News

T

he American Medical Association has declared obesity is a disease. Consider that an estimated one-third of Americans are overweight and another third are “obese” based on an unhealthy body mass index (BMI). Also consider that being overweight is a risk factor for diabetes, heart disease and some forms of cancer—the three leading causes of death and disability. But isn’t a disease something you can “catch” and cure? How did we get to this point and where do we start to correct this?

August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

24

The AMA label makes obesity more likely to be seen as a serious issue that is

reimbursable by healthcare—so, care by qualified teams may be more accessible. It may even help to alter the belief some have that being obese is something you eat yourself into and don’t care. Both are mistaken opinions. People don’t wake up overweight, and they don’t lose it without equal time and effort to take off the weight and keep it off safely. Again, where do we start?

2 Seeing a medical doctor is the first step but the next step is one that varies as much as the people who carry the weight. There is no one reason or easy plan.

A personalized evaluation and a long-term plan are important and should involve 1) a registered dietitian to help with connecting food with nutrition and health issues, and 2) a qualified physical therapist or exercise physiologist to personalize safe activity.

2 Involving a psychologist may be critical in some cases. Issues of selfesteem, food meanings and

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dependencies are important in recognizing the problems and charting a safe recovery path.

2 Building a support network may require some work but is another step in the process of taking control. For some, friends to exercise with and enjoy food that feeds body and soul is helpful. For others, joining a support group is reasonable, but a medical team should be the ones giving advice and answering your questions. Keep your eye on the goal with your health in mind, and not a product, belief or something that worked for someone else!

2 Learn to choose and prepare foods to fit your health needs, as well as your budget. This is where a registered dietitian can be helpful. Nutrient density— or, more nutrition bang for your calorie buck—should be the goal.

2 Be reasonable in setting goals, knowing that you are making lifestyle changes

rather than a quick fix.

Quick weight loss plans may work but chances are good your long-term needs will have to be met. Also know that the safe weight goal your medical team recommends is based on what is reasonable for you and your health, rather than a number or a desired dress size!

2 Finally, consider that all foods are okay in moderation; the key is knowing the meaning of moderation for you. Living it can mean that you don’t have to give up the foods you love. PSN

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Looking for Senior Resources?

Turn to the Allegheny County Senior Resource Guide Find information about these services and more! * Adult Day Services * Alzheimer’s Support * Caregiver’s Support * Community Support Programs * Dental Needs * Driver Safety * Education Opportunities * Elected Officials * Emergency Preparedness * Entertainment * Exercise and Wellness * Financial Assistance * Funeral Planning * Hearing Assistance * Hospice Care * Housing Options * Legal Resources * Pharmaceutical Assistance * Safety for Seniors

Pittsburgh Senior News also publishes

* Senior Expos

• Beaver County Senior News

* Transportation Options

• Butler County Senior News

* Utility Assistance

• Allegheny County Senior Resource Guide

* Vision Services

• Beaver County Senior Resource Guide

* Volunteer Opportunities

Visit us online at www.pittsburghseniornews.com. View current and past issues of all publications.

Publishing for over 20 years.

To advertise in any of these publications, call (412) 367-2522.

August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

* Senior Centers

25

AARP members prove to Washington that they’ve “Got a Say”

By Barbara Bush AARP Communications Specialist For Pittsburgh Senior News It is amazing the number of AARP members and general public who are actually interested in the results of the AARP program and survey aptly named “You’ve Got a Say” (YEAS). I am pleased to advise that there is a followup presentation, which covers the survey’s results. The public wants Washington to listen to their requirements when we converse on issues like Social Security and Medicare.

Voices were heard online, as well as at various events throughout the state. Volunteers and staff are now discussing and embracing healthcare reforms that eliminate waste and improve care in order to drive positive change throughout the entire healthcare system. This will lower healthcare costs for all, including Medicare needs.

Waste and inefficiencies were touted as main targets.

A. Barry Rand, CEO of AARP, wrote about seeking solutions; and more than 6.5 million members and adults ages 50 and older shared their views on the future of Medicare and Social Security. Fraud was also high on the list of ways to cut the waste in these two federal programs. AARP vigorously opposes any “chained

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CPI”, which would mean a significant benefit cut that would cost both current and future seniors, veterans and recipients thousands of dollars over their lifetimes. The cuts would escalate over the beneficiaries’ lifetimes.

If a chapter or organization is interested in having the 2013 presentation at one of your meetings, we have volunteers trained to present the PowerPoint program that outlines potential solutions suggested by the public in the initial YEAS presentations.

On another note, we want to thank all of the dedicated volunteers and donors who came in to join our Christmas in July giftwrap event.

Some of you dropped off donations to be wrapped for holiday cheer. Many of you

came back from prior years to once again “work the wrap” or do different chores such as sorting gifts and costume jewelry, wrapping lap robes or toiletries, and making tags from last year’s holiday greeting cards. The moving of articles to and from the storage area is a large feat that takes special people with a lot of patience.

There were also many donated items that will be used in one of our spring Bunny Bingos. These events are additional AARP community service projects that have been growing each year.

The generosity and outpouring of Pittsburghers is most rewarding to witness, and we all become a beneficiary of the love and goodwill— not just the residents of local homes and facilities. PSN

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AARP News Birmingham AARP #2757 will meet at 12:30 p.m. August 28 at Birmingham United Church of Christ, 25 Carrick Ave., for a members only picnic. Members must have a ticket to attend.

East Liberty AARP #2612 will meet at noon August 19 at Crossroads Church, 325 N. Highland Ave. Come early for snacks and conversation. Guests and new members welcome.

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Online courses are now available. To register, call (724) 283-0245 or (800) 559-4880. Space is limited so register early. PSN

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August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

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Dormont AARP #3016 will meet at at 11 a.m. August 8 at Dormont Presbyterian Church, 2865 Espy Ave. South Hills, for the annual picnic. Tickets may be purchased at the meeting for $8.50 per person. The catered lunch starts at noon.

Food bank donations are accepted each month.

If you are age 55 or older and have successfully completed a senior education program in the past, you only have to attend a one-day refresher course to renew your insurance discount. If you have never participated in a Senior Driver Improvement Program, you must attend a two-day seminar to earn your automobile insurance discount. The insurance discount is five percent of the total premium for a period of three years. Cost for the course is $15 per person.

27

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Bank customer service “I’m not saying that the customer service in my bank is bad, but when I went in the other day and asked the clerk to check my balance ... she leaned over and pushed me.”

Paying in advance A motorist, driving by a Texas ranch, hit and killed a calf that was crossing the road. The driver went to the owner of the calf and explained what had happened. He then asked what the animal was worth.

August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

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“Oh, about $200 today,” said the rancher. “But in six years it would have been worth $900, so $900 is what I’m out.”

The motorist sat down and wrote out a check and handed it to the farmer.

“Here,” he said, “is the check for $900. It’s postdated six years from now.”

Travel in a sailboat The banker fell overboard from a friend’s sailboat.

The friend grabbed a life preserver, held it up, not knowing if the banker could swim, and shouted, “Can you float alone?”

“Obviously,” the banker replied, “but this is a heck of a time to talk business.”

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August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

Entertainers

Great songs sweetly sung-musical theater, big band, ethnic and folk, oldies, operetta and opera. Catherine Bomstein (412) 600-0577.

Entertainment: Christmas (Mrs. Claus), St. Patrick’s (Leprechaun), Patriotic, Hawaiian Luau, Ethnic (Italian, Mexican, etc.) Strolling Mandolin, Sing-aLong, Affordable! (412) 731-1322.

Laughter Yoga, laugh your socks off without jokes. Call (412) 271-7660, email dmdixierussell@aol.com or visit www.compassionatelaughter.net.

Pianist Craig Zinger. Knockout Victor Borge-style show: Boogie, hilarious parodies (Pierogi Polka), toe-tapping singalongs. (412)-608-8429.

Sings 50’s and 60’s love songs for seniors. Call Brian (724) 205-1429.

Singer-Songs of Love by Dean Martin, Elvis, Frank Sinatra, Perry Como, Nat King Cole, Andy Williams, Bobby Vinton and other all time favorites.

Bob (412) 487-3134.

Frankie Capri presents The Dean Martin, Elvis, Frank Sinatra, Tribute Variety Show. (412) 469-2299.

Comedy Magician Al Mazing (412) 600-4903 or almazing.com.

Book our handsome Barbershop Quartet for your next big event. Up-tempo, funny, recognizable songs. Call Tom at (412) 956-1209.

Sue Gartland: Singer/Songwriter, Guitarist; Folk and Country Music (724) 889-6986.

Singing for AARP, Christmas, Valentines, Birthdays, featuring Dean, Elvis, Frank, Oldies. Bob (412) 487-3134.

Ventriloquist Cindy Speck. Seniors are my favorite audience. (724) 452-5889.

Everything Old Is New Again, a lighthearted musical comedy by Sheila Cartiff. Entertainer available for day or evening performances. Contact Sheila (412) 856-1259 or lesshe403@verizon.net.

Ray Ryan. Solo ragtime piano and dance trio. (412) 331-8368.

Dennis Smalley sings Inspirational Songs and Military Tributes (412) 901-6327.

Joe Marotta: Singer/Showman. (724) 836-3362.

Patty Hahn, Vocalist. Featuring the “Hits of Rosemary Clooney” and songs from the 40’s and 50’s. (412) 793-2637.

Master Magician Chuck Caputo. Live bunnies/birds. Reasonable. (412) 825-0822.

Bobby Shawn. Singer-entertainer. (724) 745-3064.

Dean, Rock and Roll and A Little Blue-Eyed Soul. (412) 605-9536.

Popular Broadway Songs from South Pacific, Carousel, Camelot, Sound of Music, Showboat and King and I. Bob (412) 487-3134.

Patti Eberle. Comedy, variety and musical fun. (412) 561-7161.

Sassy Seniors (formerly BTEI) Musical Theatre Troupe, songs, dancing, comedy skits. (412) 367-3093.

Edwardo, Accordionist, One-Man Band. (412) 687-6416; www.edwardomusic.com.

Eddie Ace: Magician and Comedian. Guaranteed Fun Show. (412) 462-1557.

Speakers Available: Senior Lifestyle Connections. Exploring senior living options. Stan (724) 787-7030.

Crime Prevention presentations by Deputy Sheriff S. Jason Tarap.

(412) 350-6374.

Vector Security has speakers available for your group. Jack 1 (800) 756-9161.

29

Crossword Puzzle

Senior Resources

answer on page 2

Following is a list of resources that are relevant to issues effecting seniors. We are providing this as an easy reference for information that you may need now or in the future.

AARP: www.aarp.org. The National site for AARP (formerly known as the American Association of Retired Persons), a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization for people, ages 50 years and older. Call 1 (888) 687-2277.

Alzheimer’s Association: www.alzpa.org. Programs and services for individuals and families coping with Alzheimer’s disease and other memory disorders. Call 1 (800) 272-3900. ©King Features

August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

30

ACROSS 1 Flourish 6 “Rabbit, Run” author 12 Tearjerker 13 Construction piece 14 “Anna Christie” playwright 15 Coats 16 Lima’s place 17 Father of Thor 19 Away from WSW 20 Style 22 Lummox 24 Most Wanted List org.

27 Elite alternative 29 Bart’s sister 32 Lincoln’s election year 35 Region 36 Location 37 Storm center 38 Inseparable 40 Osso buco base 42 A cont.

44 Level 46 Apiece 50 Boardroom props 52 Prophet 54 Half a storybook duo 55 “My heavens!”

56 Clothing 57 Unlike a rolling stone?

DOWN 1 Part of N.B. 2 Lecherous look 3 Poppy drug 4 Lubricate 5 Tunes 6 Wrinkly fruit 7 Challenge for Laurel and Hardy in “The Music Box” 8 Saharan 9 Obsession 10 “Show Boat” composer 11 Gaelic 12 Doo- — music 18 Fool 21 Make a choice, with “for” 23 “The Greatest” 24 Shriner’s chapeau 25 Life story, for short 26 Unknowing 28 Waiting area 30 Pigpen 31 Nay canceler 33 Coop denizen 34 Multitude 39 Old anesthetic 41 Starts 42 Turkish potentate 43 “Animal House” group 45 Capri or Wight 47 Dogfight participants 48 23-Down’s old name 49 The lady 51 Sixth letter after 53-Down 53 See 51-Down

Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging: www.alleghenycounty.us/dhs/aaa. Gives detailed information on aging programs. Call SeniorLine at (412) 350-5460; Toll Free – 1 (800) 344-4319; TDD – (412) 350-2727 Benefits Checkup: www.benefitscheckup.org. An online questionnaire to help search for a list of all state and federal benefits.

COMPASS (Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Application for Social Services): www.compass.state.pa.us. Enables Pennsylvania citizens to apply for social services programs online. Call 1 (800) 692-7462.

Eldercare Locator: www.eldercare.gov. Contains information on the complete array of services and programs of interest for older adults. Call 1 (800) 677-1116.

Government Benefits: www.GovBenefits.gov. The official benefits website of the government that connects people in need to government assistance programs.

Call 1 (800) 333-4636.

Medicare: www.medicare.gov. The official government site for Medicare consumer information. Call 1 (800) 633-4227.

Pennsylvania Hunger Action Center: www.pahunger.org.

A non profit organization working to end hunger and ensure food security for all Pennsylvanians. The link for Pennsylvania food programs provides information on various nutrition resources in our state. Call 1 (800) 634-2033.

Pennsylvania Long-Term Care: www.helpinpa.state.pa.us.

Provides long-term care information on available service options, including home care, public and private financing of those options, and other issues. Call 1 (866) 286-3636.

Mickey Mouse Trivia

Answer the following questions correctly for a chance to win $30 cash.

1. In 1928, Walt Disney produced a cartoon starring the little mouse soon to be known as Mickey Mouse. What was the show called?____________________________________ 2. At that time the mouse was not known as Mickey Mouse, but by what two-word name?________________________ 3. Mickey Mouse was created as a replacement for what character?__________________________________________ 4. Who was the first person to do the voice of Mickey Mouse?____________________________________ 5. In ‘Opry House’, a video short released on March 28, To enter, mail your answers to Pittsburgh Senior News Contest, P.O. Box 11126, Pittsburgh, PA 15237. One entry per person. Correct entries will be eligible for our drawing. One winner will be drawn. Entries must be received by the 15th of this month. Answers will be published in the next edition of Pittsburgh Senior News.

1929, Mickey started wearing what color gloves?_________ 6. What color shoes does Mickey Mouse traditionally wear?_____________________________________________ 7. In what year did Mickey Mouse make his first comic strip appearance?____________________________________ 8. What is the name of Mickey’s sister?_________________ 9. What is the name of Mickey’s dog?___________________ 10. What was the name of the first feature film Mickey Mouse appeared in?__________________________________ Name________________________________________________ Address______________________________________________ _____________________________________________________ Phone____________________________Age________________

Congratulations to Lela Matthews who won last month’s contest. The answers were: 1. Vertigo; 2. Rebecca; 3. To Catch a Thief; 4. Strangers on a Train; 5. Family Plot; 6. Torn Curtain; 7. Frenzy; 8. Rope; 9. Suspicion; 10. Notorious.

1500 LeTort St., Pittsburgh, PA 15212 • (412) 734-0741 Dave Carlton • (Property Manager)

Affordable, Comfortable Retirement Living Rent is based on income.

Age 62 or Mobility Impaired An affiliate of National Church Residences

Elliott Heights

1110 Steuben St., Pittsburgh, PA 15220 62 and Older ➻ Community/Game Room ➻ Controlled Access ➻ Emergency Call System ➻ Utility Allowance ➻ Elevator ➻ Library ➻ One-Bedroom Floor Plan ➻ On-Site Laundry Facility ➻ Service Coordinator

Alia Carter, Senior Manager (412) 920-7181 Rent is based on income. HUD subsidized.

Available Units

Eva P. Mitchell Residence

1621 Lincoln Avenue • Pittsburgh, PA 15206 Now accepting Housing Applications. Age 62 and older or Mobility Impaired.

Section 8 assistance available to those who qualify. Rent reduced to 30% of tenant income.

20% Income Limits: 1 Person $9,100; 2 Person $10,400 50% Income Limits: 1 Person $22,750; 2 Person $26,000 60% Income Limits: 1 Person $27,300; 2 Person $31,200 • Newly renovated spacious efficiencies and 1 bedroom apartments • Carpet and central air conditioning • Controlled building entry • Emergency call systems in units • On-site service coordinator • Community room/planned activities • On-site laundry facilities For information on placing an application, call

Karol M. Stoudemire at (412) 363-4169

OpeningCoalition Soon Northside Northside Coalition Senior Housing 1500 Brighton Place, Pittsburgh, PA 15212 RENT ASSISTED HOUSING FOR PERSONS AGED 62 OR OLDER 1 BEDROOM APARTMENTS EQUIPPED KITCHEN, W/W CARPETING, A/C, WINDOW COVERINGS, COMMUNITY, COMPUTER ROOM & LAUNDRY FACILITY, SECURE INTERCOM ACCESS, PUBLIC TRANS $22,050/yr. 2 Persons…$23,150/yr $25,200/yr.

Income Limits Apply: 1 Person…$20,250/yr;

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August 2013 • Pittsburgh Senior News

Riverview Manor

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