November-December 2023 Beaver County Senior News by Pittsburgh Senior News

November - December 2023

Volume 24, Number 4

COMPLIMENTARY

Sponsored in part by Beaver County Office on Aging

Hundreds of older adults take part in Beaver County Senior Day

Like us on Facebook for more news and updates at facebook.com/ PittsburghSeniorNews

By Gina Mazza

Be the first to know when news happens To receive a digital copy of our publication, please visit pittsburghseniornews. com/digital

Visit our website

Another wonderful Bea-

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ver County Senior Day took place in October at Beaver Valley Mall. The event, which was made possible by the Center at the Mall and Beaver County Office on Aging, hosted more than 40 vendors and 250 older adults. In addition to receiving valuable information, there were lots of interactive things for participants to see and do—including a pumpkin patch where they could win prizes, a presentation on Senior Scams, and a sing-along to great tunes provided by Tiffani Eckhart. The next Beaver County Senior Day will be scheduled in spring 2024; watch for more details in an upcoming issue of Beaver County Senior News. More photos on page 4

Happy Holidays!

For information and referral services, call the Beaver County Office on Aging at: (724) 847-2262 or (888) 548-2262 (long distance)

Publisher’s Corner

Volume 24, Number 4 Published by Pittsburgh Senior News, Inc. 97 Beechmont Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15229 (412) 760-5914

www.pittsburghseniornews.com pghseniornews@icloud.com Owner/Publisher:

It’s the season once more for family celebrations and friend gatherings. Flip to page 7 and find the perfect holiday event around Beaver County to enjoy with loved ones.

Lynn Hogan Webster

Editor:

Gina Mazza

Graphic Designer: Brian Svoboda

In this issue, you can also read the latest information on the Social Security COLA increase, LIHEAP’s annual enrollment and how to save money by taking advantage of senior discounts.

Contributing Writers: Gina Mazza, Angela Gentile, Mary Bach, Tina Fabrizzi

Printing Company: Knepper Press

Proud Member of

Happy holidays and may peace prevail on earth! maturepublishers.com

Hoffman’s Drug Store November - December 2023 • Beaver County Senior News

Emanuel N. Panos Pharmacist

Free Delivery We deliver to: Aliquippa Ambridge Hopewell Center • Utility bill payments accepted • PA Lottery tickets • Western Union

536 Franklin Ave., Aliquippa

(724) 375-4111

Wherever you need us . . . Since 1921

Crossword Puzzle Answer (Puzzle on page 19)

345 Commerce St. 2nd Floor Beaver, PA 15009 www.rabanksesq.com

Prepare for winter with assistance from LIHEAP

If you are in need of assistance with your heating bill, LIHEAP is available to provide crisis assistance for cold weather emergencies such as termination notices, service restoration, emergency repairs to heating systems and delivery of heating fuel. Applications are being accepted now through April 5, 2024. The income limit for LIHEAP is 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Limit; for an individual, that is a gross income of $21,870 per year, and for a family of four, that is a gross income of $45,000 per year. You do not need to know your eligibility in order to apply, and if you have applied and were denied previously but have experienced a change in circumstances, you can reapply. To apply for LIHEAP and other public assistance programs, call (866) 550-4355, visit dhs.pa.gov/COMPASS, or go to your local county assistance office.

Apartment Amenities: 

Spacious, one bedroom apartments



Rent is based on income



Fully equipped kitchen



Most utilities included in rent



24-hour emergency maintenance



Small pets welcome

Call or visit Green Diamond Place today!

Address: 379 Mellon Avenue Baden, 15005 Phone: 724-869-2080 Designed to meet the needs of adults 62 years of age and older.

Professionally managed by SeniorCare Network www.SrCareNetwork.org

November - December 2023 • Beaver County Senior News

Winter is right around the corner . . . and so are heating bills. Pennsylvania’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps homeowners and renters living on low incomes pay their heating bills in the form of a cash grant. The grant is a one-time payment sent directly to the utility company/fuel provider to be credited on your bill.

Now accepting applications for residency at Green Diamond Place!

Hundreds of older adults take part in Beaver County Senior Day

November - December 2023 • Beaver County Senior News

Beaver County offers variety of ways to celebrate the season with family and friends Fire and Ice Festival Sat., Dec. 9, 2 to 8 p.m. Downtown New Brighton info@evereesteventsgroup.com

Come see five different model railroad displays with Christmas lights and music. $7 per person. Take a tour of the entire museum. Beaver County Model Railroad Christmas Season Open House Beaver County Model RR & Historical Society, Monaca Starts weekend of Sat., Nov. 25 and Sun., Nov. 26 and continues through December, noon to 5 p.m. (724) 297-6304 Come see a wide variety of locomotive power and rolling stock in action. Free; donations are appreciated. Breakfast with Santa Sun., Dec. 3, 11 a.m. Center Stage, Monaca info@beseeable.org or (412) 480-9281 Enjoy a buffet breakfast with Santa, including face painting, craft station, family-friendly activities, vendors, raffles and more. Sensory friendly. $22 for adults, $18 for children ages 3 to 12; free for children age 3 and younger. Sounds of the Season Beaver County Symphonic Wind Ensemble Saturday, Dec 9, 7 p.m. Rochester School District Auditorium, Rochester Enjoy a free holiday concert by the Beaver County Symphonic Wind Ensemble.

The Game’s Afoot: Holmes for the Holidays Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center, Midland Fri., Dec. 1 through Sun., Dec. 3; Fri., Dec. 8 through Sun., Dec. 10; and Fri., Dec. 15 through Sun., Dec. 17 (shows at 7:30 p.m. and 2 p.m.) lincolnparkarts.org Danger and hilarity are nonstop in this glittering whodunit set during the Christmas holidays. Disney’s Freaky Friday: The Musical: One Act Edition Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center, Midland Fri., Nov. 10 through Sun., Nov. 12; and Fri., Nov. 17 through Sun., Nov. 19 (shows at 7:30 p.m. and 2 p.m.) lincolnparkarts.org The Nutcracker Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center, Midland Thursday, Dec. 14 through Sunday, Dec. 17 lincolnparkarts.org Experience Tchaikovsky’s whimsical masterpiece in Lincoln Park’s longest running holiday tradition. River City Brass Holiday Brasstacular Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center, midland Fri., Dec. 22, 7:30 p.m. lincolnparkarts.org River City Brass will make your evening merry and bright with popular holiday songs such as “The Little Drummer Boy” and “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch.”

November - December 2023 • Beaver County Senior News

Annual Holiday Model Railroad Open House Rochester Area Heritage Society, Rochester Starts weekend of Sat., Nov. 25 and Sun., Nov. 26 and continues through December, noon to 4 p.m. (724) 814-0853

Step into an unforgettable holiday experience as the quaint downtown area of New Brighton is transformed into a holiday celebration for Beaver County residents and beyond.

Walking Down Memory Lane with Vintage Debbie By Debbie Wagner A big part of the holidays is making and preserving memories, and this month’s Vintage Debbie question is specifically about preserving food. There is no doubt that recollections of holidays past invoke memories of being around the table with families and friends, enjoying a variety of delicious aromas and tastes. Some of you may remember your parents or grandparents preparing and serving food that they canned themselves. Canning was once a necessity. These days, it is experiencing a resurgence in popularity due to interest in home gardening, family farming and homesteading. Enjoy the following answers to my question about canning. I wish each of you has a wonderful holiday season filled of special memories.

What do you remember about canning in your family? Do you still keep that tradition? November - December 2023 • Beaver County Senior News

“When I was first married and rented a duplex in West View, I canned tomatoes and green beans from our little garden. There’s nothing like homemade canned tomatoes for making sauces. Healthy food with no preservatives. I miss those simple days.” – Kathy Seaton, Pittsburgh “Never had any experience canning when I was growing up but I’ve canned tomato sauce, beets and pickles. I’ve also made jams and jellies.” – M. J. Isles McCurdy, Butler County “I remember my mom’s tomato processor. We always had a garden and we’d can tomatoes using this giant metal processor that clamped to our Formica kitchen table. The shelves that used to hold the canned goods now hold Christmas decor.” – Jenda George, Pittsburgh “Year in and year out, my dad’s parents canned enough apple butter and peanut butter to fill an Amazon warehouse. The apple butter was especially good.” – Richard Gallagher, Beaver County

“I remember snapping beans and the pressure canner going in the summer. My dad always put in a large garden. My mom canned a lot and it helped feed us over the winter. My great grandmother and great aunt also canned.” – Denise Mannino, Beaver County “Learned to can at an early age and I still can today. The end result is so satisfying. It’s a pleasurable feeling of gratitude.” – Nettie Doutt Chaffee, Beaver County “I remember canning tomatoes with my grandma. My grandpa could grow anything and Grandma could cook anything. She made amazing tomato sauce and showed me how to process it using a cylindrical-shaped funnel. I found one like it at a garage sale and snagged it so I could can tomatoes like Grandma did.” – Angela Clay, Ohio “Grape jelly. Stewed tomatoes. Ketchup. Pickle-Lily. Vegetable chop was everything left in the garden. This makes the best relish for barbeques, potato and macaroni salad, and deviled eggs. Grape pie filling is my favorite.” – Karen Martino, Zelienople

Vintage Debbie is a vintage history buff and performance artist with a unique style of era-specific music, dance and dress. She entertains area seniors through an interactive and fun music memory experience in Beaver, Lawrence and Butler counties. To learn more, follow Vintage Debbie’s World on Facebook, search Vintage Debbie’s music videos on YouTube, or view videos of her performances by visiting pittsburghseniornews.com. To book her for an event, email wagner.debbie@ymail.com.

The Consumer Corner Save money by taking advantage of senior discounts By Mary Bach There are two wonderful things that come with age: grandchildren and senior discounts!

Mary Bach is a nationally recognized consumer advocate. She can be reached at mbadvocate@msn.com or (724) 327-6969.

Senior discounts are a fantastic way to help maintain your budget. While a wide variety of discounts are out there in the marketplace, many of them are not advertised or promoted. Many places and services provide savings if you are age 50 or older, while others begin at ages 55, 60, 62 or 65. Some companies offer discounts on certain days of the week or month. My best advice is always to ask, ask, ask. Remember to inquire at your local stores and restaurants about senior discounts.

Word Search

So what’s the easiest way to find these discounts? Using a computer or smartphone, search the words “senior discounts” or visit these websites for lists of available discounts: • Seniorliving.org/finance • Money.usnews.com/money.retirement • Theseniorlist.com/seniordiscounts • Thepennyhoarder.com/save-money • Forbes.com/healthy-aging • Caringseniorservice.com/senior-discounts Just remember that discounts vary from location to location, even within the same chain, and businesses make their own rules, including the right to deny a discount. Happy savings!

BRACELET CONGENIAL CORIANDER DISPELLING EPITHELIAL

EXCESSIVE EXPRESSION GERBIL LEGATO POLYGYNOUS

PROPENSITY SCHISM QUIETUS SCREWBEAN RAYMOND RIDGEPOLE SACHEM

November - December 2023 • Beaver County Senior News

Savings range from impressive and significant to smaller amounts that may lower or cover cost of taxes or the tip. You may find deals at restaurants, retailers, grocery stores, hotels, car rentals, airlines, travel agencies, cell phone companies, cruises, and health and wellness items. Some organizations, such as AARP, AMAC and AAA, offer membership for a fee, which includes access to a variety of discounts. For many companies, the specific senior discounts may vary by location or franchise, so there is no “one size fits all” situation. Some businesses offer discounts both in-store and online, while others may have restrictions on one or the other.

Beaver County Office on Aging

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Appreciating life’s “wow moments” at home or abroad Our guide suggested that we walk the lengthy trail on the settlement. Along the way, we could see a lower lake in between tall trees. It was pretty, but not exciting. Then it happened. We came upon the upper lake—a stunning vista of the mountains, valley and wildlife. As I stopped in my tracks to appreciate the view, I heard myself (and several others in the group) say it: “Wow!” Why not make some wow moments this fall or holiday season? • Attend some special music programs. • Drive to see holiday lights in your area. • Show your children or grandchildren how to make a special holiday recipe.

November - December 2023 • Beaver County Senior News

Angela enjoys a “lake moment” in Glendalough, Ireland.

By Angela Gentile, Administrative Officer II Beaver County Office on Aging

“Wow moments.” Travel writer Rick Steves

states that these are happy experiences during travel that stay with you for the rest of your life.

I was not expecting a particular wow moment during my recent Ireland day trip while on a cruise—especially after soon discovering that we had the worst tour guide ever. The young lady, not a native of Ireland, had only worked for the tour company occasionally and didn’t have much to tell us about the locations we were visiting. That day, our group visited Glendalough (Valley of Two Lakes) in County Wicklow, a former medieval monastic settlement founded by St. Kevin in the Sixth Century. The site is now ancient ruins with a monastery, churches, other buildings and 10 a cemetery.

• Get together with others for a craft day with good conversation and tasty snacks. Accumulating experiences and appreciating life’s wow moments is priceless!

Beaver County Office on Aging

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SPOTLIGHT

on Senior Concerns

Older adults can be susceptible to UTI’s, tips for preventing them By Tina Fabrizzi, RN

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection of the urinary system. The urinary system consists of the kidneys, the ureters (the two tubes that lead from each kidney to the bladder), the bladder (which holds the urine) and the urethra (the tube from the bladder through which urine flows out of your body). When bacteria enter the urethra and your immune system doesn’t fight them off, an infection can develop anywhere within the urinary system.

To help prevent UTIs: • Keep the genital area clean by wiping from front to back after going to the bathroom. • Drink plenty of fluids. • If incontinent, change briefs frequently. • Avoid things that can irritate the bladder like caffeine and alcohol. • Urinate as soon as you feel the urge.

The classic symptoms of a UTI are frequency of urination and burning pain when urinating. This can be accompanied by fever, chills and a strong odor in the urine. Older adults with a UTI can have symptoms of incontinence, decreased appetite and decreased mobility, which can lead to falls; others may not experience these common signs, but instead, can display behavioral symptoms such as confusion, agitation and lethargy. This is especially important to be aware of for those with dementia, as they may not be able to tell you they are having pain.

Be sure to seek medical care if you suspect that you have a UTI. Without treatment, a UTI can spread to the kidneys and bloodstream, and become life threatening. Antibiotics cure most UTIs. Your physician will order a urinalysis and urine culture to determine which bacteria is the cause and the best antibiotic to treat it.

Older adults are particularly susceptible to UTIs due to common conditions that have an effect on the urinary system, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and diabetes.

volunteering

for the Beaver County Office on Aging?

Some other risk factors for developing UTIs include:

We have different opportunities available.

• Previous history of UTIs • Dementia • Bladder or bowel incontinence • Catheter use

If you notice a sudden, unexplainable behavioral change in an older adult, consider the possibility that it may be due to a UTI and help them to seek medical attention.

Are you interested in

For information, contact Jason Chalupiak at 724-847-2262.

November - December 2023 • Beaver County Senior News

Retired Supervisor, Beaver County Office on Aging

Beaver County Office on Aging

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Help make someone’s holiday a little brighter this year…

Surprises for Shut-Ins This program in 2023 will continue to provide a friendly visit and deliver a bag of gifts. In its 37th year, this is made possible by your generosity! Please consider sending a monetary donation to assist with the purchase of gifts. November - December 2023 • Beaver County Senior News

Make checks or money orders (no cash) payable to the Beaver County Oﬃce on Aging, 1020 Eighth Ave., Beaver Falls, PA 15010 Please write “Surprises for Shut ins” in the memo section of your check.

Thank you for making a diﬀerence in the lives of many isolated and homebound older adults.

Beaver County Office on Aging

What is a Personal Emergency Response System (PERS)?

By Rebecca Barnes, PA MEDI Coordinator Beaver County Office on Aging

Question: What is a PERS? Answer: A Personal Emergency Response System lets you call for help in an emergency by pushing a button 24 hours a day, seven days a week. A console box is set up with your telephone service and an emergency response center to monitor the calls. The personal help button should always be worn around your neck or as a wristband. There is two-way communication with trained operators. Question: Who can benefit from this service? Answer: It is appropriate for older adults who are at risk of falling. It can also be beneficial for people who may need help quickly due to heart conditions, stroke, diabetes and more.

Question: Can the button be used outside the home? Answer: Yes, some companies have GPS availability. Question: Why can’t I just use my cell phone to summon for help? Answer: In an emergency, you may not be able to dial a phone number, tell the dispatcher who or where you are, and what your medical condition is at the moment. When pressing the PERS button, the trained operator already knows who you are and your location. The company has a medical profile for you and can send for help. Question: How is the equipment installed? Answer: Many companies have in-home service technicians to install equipment and show you how to use it. Question: Does the Beaver County Office on Aging provide funding for this service?

Question: Can I receive this service on my cell phone network or do I need a land line telephone?

Answer: The Beaver County Office has some funding for this service for adults ages 60 and older. An in-home needs assessment must be completed by one of our Options care managers. To make a referral, contact the Information and Referral Unit at (724) 847-2262 or (888) 548-2262.

Answer: Service can set up with either your landline service or cell service.

Question: Can I arrange to privately pay for PERS service without using Office on Aging funding?

Question: If I push the button, will an ambulance be sent out automatically?

Answer: Yes, you can pay for the service on your own. The Beaver County Office on Aging has a list of PERS providers that you can request by calling our Information and Referral Unit at (724) 847-2262 or (888) 548-2262.

Answer: If you are able to talk with the trained operator, they may be able to contact your assigned emergency contacts (a family member or friend) to check on you first. If the operator cannot reach your emergency contacts, they will dispatch emergency help, whether it be an ambulance, or the police or fire department. Question: What if I push the button and cannot communicate with the operator? Answer: If you cannot communicate with the operator, your emergency contacts will be called. If the emergency contacts cannot be reached, emergency help will be dispatched. Question: What happens if the button is activated by accident? Answer: Sometimes, a person will bump the button and activate a call. Just tell the operator what happened.

November - December 2023 • Beaver County Senior News

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Beaver County Office on Aging

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Circle of Friends

Senior Community Centers Circle of Friends hosts fun activities and events! CIRCLE OF FRIENDS CONWAY UPCOMING EVENTS The new Circle of Friends Conway is located at the corner of 11th Street and Third Avenue, two blocks from Route 65. Creation Academy is on the upper level; the center is located on the lower level via the Third Avenue entrance. November:

CIRCLE OF FRIENDS NEW BRIGHTON UPCOMING EVENTS

• November 1 and 15: Pinochle at 9:30 a.m.

December:

• November 2: Circle of Friends Presentation at Conway Women’s Club, 6 p.m. at Conway Municipal Building

• December 5: Christmas party with Gene Testa at 11 a.m. $5 per person. Reservation required.

• November 7: Holiday Sweets Recipe Club at 10:30 a.m.

• December 13: Card party at 10 a.m. $5 per person.

• November 8: Bowling at Baden Bowl at 9:30 a.m.

• December 7, 14, 21 and 28: Line dancing at 10 a.m.

• November 13: “Make It Take It” Monday Craft Class at 9:30 a.m.

• December 19: Blood pressure screenings at 9 a.m.

• November 29: Christmas Decorating at 10 a.m.

November - December 2023 • Beaver County Senior News

• December 6 and 20: Breakfast and Po-Ke-No at 10 a.m.

• Every Friday: Diamond Dot Art Class at 9:30 a.m. • Every Monday: Bingo at 12:30 p.m.

• December 19: Christmas bingo. $5 per person. • December 6, 13, 20 and 27: Bible study at 10 a.m. • December 7, 14, 21 and 28: Pool at 9 a.m.

• Every Thursday: Bingo at 10 a.m.

• December 29: Out To Lunch bunch, noon, Z Pub in Chippewa

• Every Monday and Friday: Healthy Steps in Motion exercise class at 11 a.m.

• Every Monday and Friday: Exercise with Connie at 9 a.m. January:

December:

• January 3 and 17: Breakfast and Po-Ke-No at 10 a.m.

• December 5: Holiday Sweets Recipe Club at 10:30 a.m.

• January 10: Card party at 10 a.m. $5 per person.

• December 6 and 20: Pinochle at 9:30 a.m. • December 11: “Make It Take It” Monday Craft Class at 9:30 a.m.

• January 4, 11, 18 and 25: Line dancing at 10 a.m. • January 23: Winter bingo. $5 per person. • January 23 Blood pressure screenings at 9 a.m.

• December 21: Lunch and Learn with Adagio Health at noon.

• January 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31: Bible study at 10 a.m.

• Every Monday: Bingo at 12:30 p.m.

• january 26: Out to Lunch bunch, noon at Marbel’s in New Brighton

• Every Thursday: Bingo at 10 a.m.

• January 4, 11, 18 and 25: Pool at 9 a.m.

• Every Friday: Diamond Dot Art Class at 9:30 a.m.

• Every Monday and Friday: Exercise with Connie at 9 a.m.

• Every Monday and Friday: Healthy Steps in Motion exercise class at 11 a.m.

Find us on Facebook at Circle of Friends Beaver County, or just stop in for a visit and say hi!

Beaver County Office on Aging

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Unit 284 Center Hours 570 Beaver Valley Mall Blvd Mon - Thurs 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. Rural King Corridor Fri 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Inside the Mall Monaca, PA 15061 Check out our website www.centeratthemall.net 724-774-5654

or like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/centeratthemall

Chair Volleyball Class Tuesday & Thursday at 11 a.m. Monday, Wednesday, & Friday at 1 p.m. SilverSneakers Classic Monday, Wednesday, & Friday at 11 a.m. Yoga (sitting/standing only; no floor activities) Tuesday & Thursday at 10 a.m. SilverSneakers Circuit Thursday at 9 a.m. Cardio Sculpt Monday & Friday at 9 a.m. or 10 a.m. Belly Buster Wednesday at 9 a.m. or 10 a.m. Mix-It Up Cardio Tuesday at 9 a.m.

Room Rentals (The Center has rooms available to rent, perfect for birthday parties, bridal showers, council meetings, graduations, etc.) Room 1 - $55 Room 2 - $85 Congregate Room - $350

Clubs, Groups, & Amenities

ACTS Care Cancer Support Group Meets Thursdays from 1 - 2:30 p.m.. Art Club Use provided materials or bring your own projects. Meets every Tuesday from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.. Bingo Every Tuesday and Thursday from 12:15 - 1:45 p.m. Cards are 25¢ each, payouts relative to number of players. Café Area (always available) Coffee, tea, and water. Donation of $1 is appreciated. Casino Trips Bus trips to a local casino. Cost is $30/person. You must preregister/pre-pay. Computer Lab (always available) Computers with internet access. Computer and iPhone classes available throughout the year ($). Crochet and Knitting Club Every Tuesday from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Fitness Center Fully functioning fitness facility with staff on hand to provide instruction. Complimentary to SilverSneakers or Renew Active members. Self-pay options available for others. Garden Club Meets every first and third Monday 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Join other members to help with the garden, listen to speakers, and create garden related crafts. Mah-Jongg Meets every Thursday from 12:30 - 3 p.m. Library (located in Computer Lab) A variety of books. No sign-out, use the honor system. Line Dancing Class meets Wednesday and Friday 10 - 11 a.m. ($) Lunch Nutritional lunches every day from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. $3 donation for ages 60+; $6 fee for ages 50-59. Must preregister one business day in advance. Organ Club Wednesdays from 10 - 11 a.m. Note: this club is not for beginners, must have some experience. ($) Pinochle Club Every Thursday from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Pool Tables (always available) The Center has two 8ft tables, all skill levels welcome. Recipe Club Third Tuesday of each month from 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Shuffleboard Club Tabletop version, meets 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Tuesday of each month 1:30 - 3 p.m.

November - December 2023 • Beaver County Senior News

Fitness Classes

Member exercise classes are SilverSneakers, Renew Active, and Punch Pass eligible.

Beaver County Office on Aging

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Social Security announces 3.2 percent benefit increase for 2024 More than 66 million Social Security beneficiaries will see the 3.2 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) beginning in January 2024. Increased payments to approximately 7.5 million people receiving SSI will begin on December 29, 2023. Other adjustments that take effect in January of each year are based on the increase in average wages. Based on that increase, the maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax (taxable maximum) will increase to $168,600 from $160,200. Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits for more than 71 million Americans will increase 3.2 percent in 2024. On average, Social Security retirement benefits will increase by more than $50 per month starting in January.

Social Security begins notifying people about their new benefit amount by mail starting in early December. Individuals who have a personal my Social Security account can view their COLA notice online. To learn more, visit ssa.gov. Information about Medicare changes for 2024 are available at medicare.gov.

Ombudsman November - December 2023 • Beaver County Senior News

(724) 480-8589 ombudsman@bcoa.us (to report resident rights issues in nursing homes, personal care homes and long-term care services) Linda L. Hall, Administrator

1020 Eighth Ave. Beaver Falls, PA 15010

Office Hours:

Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Phone: Website:

(888) 548-2262 (long distance) TDD (724) 728-5700

(724) 847-2262 (local)

beavercountypa.gov/departments/office-on-aging

Beaver County Commissioners Daniel C. Camp III, Chairman Jack Manning Tony Amadio

Protective Services for Older Adults (724) 775-1786

(TO REPORT ABUSE, NEGLECT, AND EXPLOITATION - 24 HOURS)

Services • Information and Referral • Care Management • Benefits / PA MEDI – Pennsylvania Medicare Education and Decision Insight • Pre-admission Assessment • Caregiver Support Program • Domiciliary Care • Ombudsman • Adult Day Care • Home Delivered Meals • Homemaker • Personal Care • Legal Services • Protective Services • Senior Centers • Transportation

Beaver County Office on Aging

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The Consumer Corner

What to do if you become the victim of an identity theft scam Scammers can be very

convincing. They call, email and text in attempts to get our money in any way they can. These criminals target our sensitive personal information, such as bank account, credit card, Social Security and Medicare numbers, and even our gift card purchases. Scammers often do their research to find background information about us using the internet and public records. Many of them are very good at what they do and end up victimizing the unsuspecting. Most people don’t want to admit that they have fallen for fraud in the form of a scam, and these thieves know how to use this to their advantage. If this happens to you, don’t be embarrassed. Take action by immediately doing the following. • Totally stop any contact with the scammer. Don’t reply to phone calls, emails, texts or letters in the mail. • Beware of additional thieves who may contact you claiming that they can help you get your lost money back. • The most important thing is to report, report, report! Immediate contact your financial institutions about potentially compromised credit card, bank account, or debit card situations. They may be able to cancel or reverse fraudulent transactions. • Report your issue to the local police. Insist that they take your information and file a report, even if they seem hesitant. • Notify the three credit bureaus. They can add a fraud alert to your credit reports to warn that you may be a victim of identity theft. Consider placing a security freeze on your credit reports. This prevents anyone from accessing your credit history and opening a new credit card in your name.

• File a complaint with the Attorney General’s Office by visiting attorneygeneral.gov or calling (800) 441-2555. • Contact the Federal Trade Commission at (877) 3824357) or online at ftc.gov. Report all types of fraud, including lottery and sweepstakes scams, counterfeit checks, imposter scams, and others. • If someone is using your personal information to open new accounts, make purchases, or get a tax refund, report it by calling (877) IDTHEFT or visiting identitytheft.gov, where you can create a personal recovery plan. • If you or someone you know has been victimized and you want to speak with someone about it, call the AARP Helpline at (877) 908-3360 or the National Elder Fraud Hotline at (833) 372-8311. • Help others by using the AARP Scam Tracking Map online at aarp.org/FraudWatchNetwork.

And always remember: If you can spot a scam, you can stop a scam! Mary Bach is an independent, nationally recognized consumer advocate. She can be reached (724) 327-6969 or by emailing mbadvocate@msn.com.

November - December 2023 • Beaver County Senior News

By Mary Bach

A-1 HAULING LLC BEST RATES! QUICKEST RESPONSE TIME!

Downsizing Specialists! Owner Supervises All Jobs! We Haul Anything, Anywhere, Anytime!

Call Us Before You Rent A Dumpster Cleanouts For Garages, Basements, Attics, Estates, Offices

724-216-3496

November - December 2023 • Beaver County Senior News

Koppel Terrace Senior Apartments

Francis A. Farmer Apartments

Maintenance Free, Garden Style Apartments For persons 55 years of age and older

274 Friendship Circle, Brighton Township, Beaver, PA 15009

Corner of 1st Avenue and Richard Street in Koppel

Accessible 1 bedroom apartments with equipped kitchens, A/C, balconies, community room, laundry facilities, parking lots and Secure Intercom System. Newly-renovated accessible apartments with roll-in showers also available. There is an admission priority for very low-income persons whose incomes are:

19 spacious, fully carpeted 1 and 2 bedroom apartments One Bedroom $400 Two Bedrooms $500 plus electric Water, sewage and garbage included. Fully equipped with stove, refrigerator, dishwasher and garbage disposal. On-site laundry facilities are also available.

Rent-Assisted Housing for Persons Ages 62 and Older

• 1 Person hh...$17,450 • 2 Persons hh...$19,950 Maximum income for eligibility is: • 1 Person $46,500 • 2 Persons $53,150

For additional information and application packet, call (724) 775-4535.

Application or assistance available Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Housing Authority of the County of Beaver, 300 State Ave., Beaver, PA 15009

Income restrictions apply. Annual income must not exceed: $25,450 one person; $29,050 two persons

Or call (724) 775-1220 for additional information www.beavercountyhousing.org

BEAVER FALLS PLAZA

1008 Seventh Ave., Beaver Falls (724) 843-4822

Two BR Vacancies Immediate Occupancy • 24 Hour Emergency Maintenance • On-site Management and Maintenance • Carpet/Blinds on All Windows • Individually Controlled Heat & Air Conditioning • Generous Closet Space • Potential Rapid Occupancy • No Application Fee •All Utilities Included in Rent • Income Limits Apply: • 1 Person hh...$17,850 • 2 Persons hh...$20,400 Maximum income for eligibility is: 1 Person $47,500; 2 Persons $54,300

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Beaver Elder Care Rehabilitation Center A GUARDIAN ELDER CARE FACILITY

616 Golf Course Road Aliquippa, PA 15001 Phone: (724) 375-0345 Now offering Outpatient Therapy along with Short-Term Rehabilitation

www.beavereldercare.com

Conway Towers 904 3rd Ave, Conway, PA 15027

► Convenient, senior-friendly living!

Senior programming • Community room/Library • Computer center • Bingo Movies • Exercise classes • Walking distance to shops & pharmacies

► Enjoy our amazing amenities!

Heating & air conditioning • Utilites (water, trash, & sewer) included Dogs & cats allowed (with deposit, restrictions apply) • Cable TV available Refrigerator • Ample closet space • Private patio • Laundry facilities Elevator • Controlled access • Off-street parking • On-site manager

Call (724) 869-7148 conwaytowers@comcast.net

Leetsdale Manor

27 Spencer Street, Leetsdale, PA 15056 Rent-Assisted Housing for Persons Ages 62 and Older 1 bedroom apartments w/ equipped kitchens, wall-wall carpet, A/C, balconies, community room, laundry facility, limited off-street parking and Secure intercom system. HUD has mandated that an admission priority be implemented for households whose incomes are 30% of the area median income or less. Income limits apply (gross annual income): • 1 Person hh...$14,600 • 2 Persons hh...$16,700 Maximum income eligibility • 1 Person...$24,350 • 2 Persons ...$27,800

(800) 238-7555 EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

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November - December 2023 • Beaver County Senior News

LET’S TALK ABOUT IT Medicare can be confusing. Don’t get discouraged, get informed! If you. . . • Turned 65 years old • Get financial November - December 2023 • Beaver County Senior News

assistance • Moved to a new area • Have been diagnosed with a chronic condition • Are a veteran,

and more

WE CAN HELP! Franklin L. Namath, Jr. Michael P. Namath Licensed Agents 724-847-3290 TTY:711 By calling this number, you agree to speak with an independent health insurance agent about Medicare Advantage products. Medicare has neither reviewed nor endorsed this information. This is an advertisement.