Butler County Senior News
December 2016
Volume 11, Number 4
FREE
Butler County Senior News will not have a January issue. Look for us in February. Happy Holidays!
Visit Us Online at www.pittsburgh seniornews.com Enjoy 80+ free comics everyday. Plus news and games.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year to enjoy a holiday show or seasonal exhibit with family and friends By Gina Mazza For Butler County Senior News It’s the most wonderful time of the year to step out and make special memories with family and friends. When it comes to holiday happenings, Butler County and the City of Pittsburgh offer plenty of options to create some holiday magic. Here’s our annual roundup of our favorite things to do in Butler County and beyond.
In and near Butler County Breakfast with Santa at Butler Township Park Building The Butler County Parks and Recreation Department has teamed up with Butler Township to host Breakfast with Santa from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 3 at the Butler Township Park Building, 468 South Duffy Road. Enjoy a fun-filled breakfast with crafts, goodies and the big
man in the red suit. Perfect for ages toddler through 10. Cost is $9 per child (under age one are free, but must be registered). Call (724) 284-5383. Christmas Wonderland Bus Tour at Big Butler Fairgrounds Come out to the Big Butler Fairgrounds at 3:30 p.m. on December 11 to experience a Continued on page 3
2016 King Features Syndicate, Inc.
Publisher’s Corner Owner/Publisher: Lynn Webster Editor: Gina Mazza Art Director: Shantessa Burnfield Sales Executive: Wallace Webster
ON SITE SURGICAL CENTER
Yes, it is once again that most wonderful time of the year to create special holiday memories with family and friends. This issue is chock full of fun things to do in and around Butler County. All of us at Senior News wish you and your loved ones a blessed holiday season.
Lynn Webster
Photographer: Chuck LeClaire
• No stitch, no patch cataract surgery at adjacent surgical center • Laser surgery for secondary cataracts, diabetes and glaucoma • Facial rejuvenation treatments, including Botox®, dermal fillers and eyelash enhancement • Complex retinal care with Drs. Hoffman, Rosenberg, and Kondapalli • Eye Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery with Dr. Randall Beatty
Printing Company: Knepper Press
C.A. Balouris, M.D.
Comprehensive Retinal Services are available at Balouris Eye Center, PC. Drs. Hoffman, Rosenberg, and Kondapalli of Everett & Hurite Ophthalmic Association provide complex retinal care in our office. They treat all conditions affecting the retina including macular degeneration, retinal detachment, and advanced diabetic retinopathy.
Melissa A. DeRenzo, M.D.
102 Technology Dr.•Butler•724-482-0090•www.BalourisEyeCenter.com
December 2016 • Butler County Senior News
2
Intern: Kara Boyle Proofreader: Jeff Makkos Volume 11, Number 4 Published monthly by Pittsburgh Senior News, Inc. for Butler County Senior News P. O. Box 11126 Pittsburgh, PA 15237
Visit our website at www.pittsburghseniornews.com
(412) 367-2522 Visit our website at www.pittsburghseniornews.com or email us at pghseniornews@icloud.com
View the most recent issues of • Butler County Senior News • Pittsburgh Senior News • Beaver County Senior News •Butler County Senior Resource Guide • Allegheny County Senior Resource Guide •Beaver County Senior Resource Guide
Crossword Puzzle Answer (See page 15)
Contributing Writers: Brittany Buzzelli Gina Mazza
Live Independently…Not Alone Medical help at the push of a button. Get medical help in an emergency at the push of a button with the Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) from Vector Security®.
Butler County Senior News is distributed monthly in the Butler County area. Copy right 2016 by Butler County Senior News. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. All advertisement in Butler County Senior News is subject to the approval of the publisher. Publication of advertising herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement.
Simply wear the system on your wrist or neck and press the “help” button to be connected to a trained operator 24 hours a day. Call now for more information and a free consultation…because living alone doesn’t mean being alone.
1-800-756-9161 www.vectorsecurity.com
In Memory of John A. Hogan, Sr. Carmella M. Hogan Michael J. Hogan, Sr. Wayne Hogan
It’s the most wonderful time of the year to enjoy a holiday show or seasonal exhibit with family and friends
30artists... 300costumes 20acts...“DAZZLING” - THE WASHINGTON POST
Continued from page 1
beautiful holiday lights extravaganza. The final stop is Santa’s Village with Mr. Claus himself spreading Christmas cheer. The $62 fee includes deluxe motor coach transportation, early dinner, admission to the light display and a stop at Santa’s Village. Departs from Butler at 3:30 p.m. Call Butler Motor Tours at (724) 282-1000 to register.
THE FAMILY HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR
Donnie Iris and The Cruisers Concert at Jergel’s Rhythm Grille
Frank (Sinatra) and Barbra (Streisand) at The Strand Theater Come see Frank and Barbra, the “Christmas concert that never was” at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Sunday, December 4 at The Strand Theater, 119 N. Main Street in Zelienople. Call (724) 742-0400. Get Fit Families Reindeer Race in Harmony The Reindeer Race is a fun family 5K and one-mile race with great prizes, cool giveaways and more. Walk, run or skip your way to the finish and visit with Santa Claus fFrom 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on December 3 on Mercer Street in downtown Harmony. Admission is $25. Call (724) 321-4265. Continued on page 4
DECEMBER 29 & 30, 2016
BENEDUM CENTER TRUSTARTS.ORG • BOX OFFICE AT THEATER SQUARE 412-456-6666 • GROUPS 10+ TICKETS 412-471-6930
December 2016 • Butler County Senior News
Join King Cool, the first inductee into the Pittsburgh Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, on stage with The Cruisers for an unforgettable “Dawwwnnie” night! Hear all your favorites, like “Love is Like a Rock”, “Ah! Leah!” and “The Rapper” at 6 p.m. on December 10 at Jergel’s Rhythm Grille, 103 Slade Lane in Warrendale. Tickets are $32. Call (724) 799-8333.
3
It’s the most wonderful time of the year to enjoy a holiday show or seasonal exhibit with family and friends Continued from page 3 Girls and Dolls Holiday Tea at Succop Nature Park Bring your favorite little girl, along with her doll, for a tea party fit for a princess from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on December 3 at Succop Nature Park, 185 West Airport Road in Butler. Enjoy tea, snacks, holiday carols and a craft. Tickets are $20 members, $25 for nonmember. Call (412) 963-6100. Holiday Pops with the Pittsburgh Philharmonic at Succop Theater Celebrate the season with the Holiday Pops and the Pittsburgh Philharmonic at 8 p.m. on December 2 at Succop Theater, Butler County Community College, 107 College Drive in Butler. Bring a toy for Toys for Tots and get a coupon for an upcoming show. Plus, don’t miss a special visit from Santa. Call (724) 284-8505. Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland at Big Butler Fairgrounds Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland is back at the Big Butler Fairgrounds, 1127 New Castle Road in Prospect this holiday season. This Christmas light and music extravaganza is unlike any show you’ve seen. Simply tune into your car radio and watch the magic unfold as you drive through hundreds of thousands of brilliant LED lights dancing in perfect synchronization with the music. The lights will glow every night from dusk to 10 p.m., including holidays, through January 8.
December 2016 • Butler County Senior News
4
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays are popular nights to visit the light show, so please anticipate long lines and wait times. Visit Monday through Thursday to avoid extended wait times. Fee is $25 for cars and family vans; $40 for mini-bus, limousine or activity van; $80 for school and tour busses. Items in Santa’s Village are an additional cost. Christmas Wonderland supports local charities. Tickets can be purchased onsite from the comfort of your vehicle. To learn more, call (866) 856-8444 or visit Shadrackchristmas.com. In and around downtown Pittsburgh Carnegie Museum of Art Holiday Trees and Presepio Kick off your holidays with a visit to this popular seasonal display, brought to you by the Carnegie Museum of Art Women’s Committee. This year’s theme is “The Americas”, featuring inspirations from Brazil, Canada, Mexico, Peru and the United States. The theme takes its cue from two exhibitions: Hélio Oiticica, showcasing the legendary Brazilian artist, and Building Optimism: Public Space in South America.
See the Hall of Architecture filled with several towering Colorado spruce trees, each adorned with handcrafted ornaments from committee members and collaborating organizations. The trees flank the museum’s exquisite Neapolitan presepio Nativity scene, a cherished Pittsburgh tradition. Handcrafted between 1700 and 1830, teems with lifelike figures and colorful details that recreate the Nativity within a vibrant and detailed panorama of 18th Century Italian village life. More than 100 superbly modeled human and angelic figures, along with animals, accessories and architectural elements, cover 250 square feet. The exhibit runs through January 9. The Carnegie Museum Group is headquartered at 4400 Forbes Avenue in Oakland. Seniors ages 65 and older, $12; adults, $15; ages 3 to 18, $11. Price of admission includes both art and natural history museums. For hours and other details, call (412) 622-3131 or visit cmoa.org. First Night Pittsburgh, Downtown First Night Pittsburgh promises to be even bigger and better this year. A production of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, First Night is an arts-focused and family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration in downtown Pittsburgh’s Cultural District. It is the largest single-day celebration in the region, offering about 150 events at nearly 50 indoor and outdoor locations within a 14-block area. The celebration offers something for everyone, including a countdown to midnight and fireworks display, parade with giant puppets, live music and dance, a Sing-Off competition and art displays both indoors and outside. This year’s musical entertainment features the Nigel Hall Band. To learn more or to order your admission buttons for $10 each, visit Firstnightpgh.org. Holiday Rock n’ Rolldies at Heinz Hall This all-star line-up features Pittsburgh’s beloved Johnny Angel and the Halos, Eugene Pit and Jive Five (“What Time Is It?”), Dee Dee Sharp (“Mashed Potato”), the Impressions
Miniature Railroad & Village at Carnegie Science Center Take a walking tour of western Pennsylvania at the worldrenowned Miniature Railroad & Village at the Carnegie Science Center. The exhibit began in 1920 with a man named Charles Bowdish of Brookville. Originally a holiday display on the second floor of his house, it moved to the Buhl Planetarium in 1954, and ultimately found its final home at Carnegie Science Center in 1992. The Miniature Railroad & Village features hundreds of wonderfully realistic animated scenes that illustrate how people lived, worked and played in our region during an era spanning the 1880s to the late 1930s. A replica of the Buhl Planetarium on Pittsburgh’s North Side is the latest gem added to this extraordinary display. More favorites include Fallingwater, Forbes Field, Punxsutawney Phil at Gobbler’s Knob, Luna Park, Sharon Steel Mill, a historic Pittsburgh incline and more. The display has 250,000 trees, 105 animations, 85 automobiles and 14 aircraft, and much more. For tickets and information, call (412) 237-3400 or visit Carnegiesciencecenter.org.
Aging Waiver Service Coordination Choose the local option!
Center for Community Resources' Butler based Service Coordinators are responsive, caring and committed to helping you maintain your independence.
Conveniently located in the Sunnyview Complex. 121 Sunnyview Circle, Suite 131 Butler, PA 16001
724-431-3748 www.ccrinfo.org
A Musical Christmas Carol at the Byham Theater Penny pinching and bad tempered miser Ebenezer Scrooge goes on the adventure of his life, from his past to his present and beyond and learns that the value of gold will never equal that of genuine love for his fellow men. The classic tale thrills with its beloved characters and message of compassion, love and kindness and, of course, Christmas spirit. Don’t miss this classic as it returns to the Byham Theatre on December 9, performed by the Pittsburgh CLO from December 9 through 23 at the Byham Theatre. To order tickets, call (844) 765-8432 or visit Pittsburgh-theater.com. BCSN With BAYADA Home Health Care…
“It’s like having more family around.” – Mrs. Frances S., Client
BAYADA provides assistive care, such as help with bathing, grooming, and meal preparation, 24 hours, 7 days to keep adults and seniors safe at home.
Call 724-285-7100 www.bayada.com
Compassion. Excellence. Reliability.
Just Ask for VNA
It’s your right to choose the home health and hospice provider you prefer. Ask for VNA.
724-282-6806 Toll-free 877-862-6659 www.lutheranseniorlife.org 154 Hindman Road, Butler, PA 16001
December 2016 • Butler County Senior News
(“It’s Alright”) and Lou Christie (“Gypsy Cried”) performing their greatest hits and some holiday favorites. Show takes place at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 14 at Heinz Hall for the Performing Arts. To order tickets, call (412) 392-4819 or visit Pittsburghsymphony.org.
5
Cirque Dreams Holidaze at the Benedum Center This new Cirque show is a Broadway musical and family Christmas spectacular all in one, with 20 acts and 30 artists. Enjoy watching snowmen, penguins, angels, reindeer, toy soldiers, gingerbread men, ornaments and Santa—all with soaring acrobatics, gravity defying feats, elaborate production
numbers, imaginative costumes, illusions and more. The show celebrates the season with singers, original music and classic favorites. Appropriate for all ages. December 29 and 30 at the Benedum Center. Tickets start at $40. For tickets, visit cirqueproductions.com or trustarts.org. BCSN
Holidaze rivals The Rockettes Christmas show.
Cirque Dreams includes hundreds of colorful performers.
Photos taken from cirqueproductions.com.
LOOKING FOR
December 2016 • Butler County Senior News
6
awesome SENIOR LIVING?
at Chicora Medical Center
724.445.2000 724.353.1531 724.445.3000 Senior Living • Skilled Care • Memory Care • Rehab
www.QualityLifeServices.com
Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Senior Express
Low-income subsidy for Medicare and Extra Help is available to beneficiaries who qualify By Gina Mazza For Butler County Senior News
I
f you are on Medicare, you most probably know that the Medicare Prescription Drug Program, also known as Medicare Part D, makes prescription drug coverage available to Medicare beneficiaries. You may also know that a subsidy, called Extra Help, can be used to cover prescription drug costs for eligible individuals whose income and resources are limited. Specifically, the subsidy can provide assistance with the premium, deductible and co-payments.
Medicare beneficiaries who wish to enroll in the Medicare Prescription Drug Program must choose a prescription drug plan through which to receive the benefit. Generally, coverage for the drug benefit is provided by private prescription drug plans (PDPs) that offer drug-only coverage, or through Medicare Advantage health plans that offer both prescription drug and health care coverage (known as MA-PDs). As a side note, covered Part D drugs are essentially the same drugs approved for the Medicaid program and must be dispensed by prescription and on an outpatient basis. Drugs that are paid for by Medicare Part A or B are excluded. How to apply for the subsidy If you suspect that you may qualify for this Low-Income Subsidy (LIS), inquire
at your local Social Security Administration (SSA) office or with your state Medicaid agency to determine if you are eligible. You can also go online at ssa.gov. There you will find a simplified application form and process for determination and verification of your income and resources.
Income is based on the federal poverty level standard applicable to the size of the applicant’s family. Assets (other than the applicant’s primary residence) are considered in determining eligibility. Generally speaking, you qualify if: Continued on page 8.
December 2016 • Butler County Senior News
December 2016 • Butler County Senior News
If you not already receiving this LowIncome Subsidy (LIS), now is the time to apply, as eligibility is based off your previous year’s income.
7
Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Senior Express
Low-income subsidy for Medicare and Extra Help is available to beneficiaries who qualify Continued from page 7 4 Your combined savings, investments and real estate are not worth more than $27,250, if you are married and living with your spouse, or 4 Your combined savings, investments and real estate are not worth more than or $13,640 if you are not currently married or not living with your spouse. The above resource amounts should not include your home, vehicles, personal possessions, life insurance, burial plots, irrevocable burial contracts or back payments from Social Security or SSI. If you have more than the above resources, you may not qualify for Extra Help but you can still enroll in an approved Medicare prescription drug plan for coverage.
December 2016 • Butler County Senior News
8
Certain groups of Medicare beneficiaries automatically qualify for the lowincome subsidy and do not have to apply: 2 Full-benefit dual eligible (FBDEs) persons eligible for both Medicare and full Medicaid benefits. 2 Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients - including SSI recipients who do not qualify for Medicaid, and individuals deemed to be SSI recipients. 2 Medicare beneficiaries who are participants in the Medicare Saving Programs (MSP), which are QMB, SLMB, and QI. December 2016 • Butler County Senior News
Additional thoughts about Extra Help * Extra Help is estimated to be worth about $4,000 per year. * To qualify, you must be receiving Medicare, have limited resources and income, and reside in one of the 50 states or the District of Columbia. * The Medicare Prescription Drug program gives you a choice of prescription plans that offer various types of coverage. Completing an application for Extra Help does not enroll you in a Medicare prescription drug plan. You will have to enroll directly with an approved Medicare prescription drug provider for coverage. For information about Medicare Prescription Drug plans or how to enroll in a plan, call (800) MEDICARE or TTY (877) 486-2048), or visit Medicare.gov. To learn more, call Social Security at (800) 772-1213 or TTY (800) 325-0778.
Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Senior Express
Senior Center events
_ Chicora Senior Center, lower level of Moose Hall, 117 West Slippery Rock St., offers the following events: Christmas party at 5 p.m. December 2. Cost is $6.25 members and $12.50 non-members; blood pressure screening at 9:30 a.m. December 6; bingo at 10:15 a.m. and birthday celebration December 8; stroke support group from 10 to 11 a.m. December 13; leadership meeting at 10 a.m. December 20; bingo at 10:15 a.m. December 22; and New Year’s Eve celebration December 29. The center is open from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. Call (724) 445-2551. _ Cranberry Senior Center, Municipal Building, Rochester Rd., offers the following events: snowball dance from 2 to 5 p.m. December 7. Cost is $5; Twilight Wish program at 11 a.m. and birthday celebration December 8; Christmas party December 15; day for seniors at Seneca Valley School at noon December 16; leadership meeting at 10:30 a.m. December 22; wellness Wednesday breakfast club at 8:30 a.m. December 28; and New Year’s Eve party December 29. The center is open from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (724) 772-6086. _ Evans City Senior Center, 426 East Main St., offers the following events: making Yul Logs from 10 a.m. to noon December 6 and 13; incontinence program at 1 p.m. December 7; blood pressure screening from 10 a.m. to noon, leadership meeting at 1 p.m. and birthday celebration December 8; USO show at the Strand at 2 p.m. December 11; white elephant bingo from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. December 13; Christmas party from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. December 22. Bring a grab bag gift valued at $10; wellness Wednesday breakfast at 10 a.m. December 28; and New Year’s Eve party from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. December 29. The center is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Call (724) 538-9414.
_ Mars Senior Center, Penn Mar Plaza, Gilkey Dr., offers the following activities: make ribbon tree craft and have cookies at 1 p.m. December 1; blood pressure screening at 11:45 a.m. and birthday celebration at noon December 8; decorate for Christmas with cookies at 1 p.m. December 14; Klondike fundraiser at 12:30 p.m. December 15; Christmas party at noon December 21. Cost is $5; leadership meeting at 1 p.m. December 22; wellness Wednesday breakfast at 9 a.m. December 28; and New Year’s party at noon December 29. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (724) 625-4466. _ Mount Chestnut Senior Center, Presbyterian Church, 727 Old Route 422, will offer the following events: blood pressure screening at 11:30 a.m. December 1; leadership meeting at 12:45 p.m. December 5; birthday celebration December 8; USO show at Strand December 11; Wii bowling December 12; Twilight Wish program at 12:45 p.m. December 15; wellness Monday breakfast club at 10 a.m. December 26; book club at 10 a.m. December 10; and New Year’s Eve party December 29. The center is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays. Call (724) 282-6006. _ Slippery Rock Senior Center, Township Building, 155 Branchton Rd., will offer the following events: birthday celebration at 12:30 p.m. December 8; Rivers Casino and Aviary trip December 9; Christmas cookie party at 10:30 a.m. and leadership meeting at 12:30 p.m. December 15; Christmas party at 10:30 a.m. and blood pressure screening at 11 a.m. December 22; wellness Wednesday breakfast at 9 a.m. December 28; and New Year’s Eve party at 10:30 a.m. December 29. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. Call (724) 794-6440. _ Southeast Senior Center, Winfield Township Firehall, Brose Rd., offers the following upcoming events: birthday celebration at 11:30 a.m. December 8; Insurance questions at 10 a.m. and Christmas party December 15. Bring $5 gift for the gift exchange; wellness Wednesday breakfast at 9 a.m. December 27. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Call (724) 352-2036. _ West Sunbury Senior Center, West Sunbury Presbyterian Church, hours are from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday and Friday. Lunches are provided. Call (724) 637-2959. BCSN December 2016 • Butler County Senior News
December 2016 • Butler County Senior News
_ Butler Senior Center, 10 Austin Ave., (located in Tanglewood Senior Center), Lyndora, offers the following events: blood pressure screening from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. December 1; open house and resource fair from 1 to 3 p.m. December 5; 500 card party at 11:45 a.m. December 7; birthday celebration and leadership meeting at 11:30 a.m. December 8; bring an item to tie-dye at noon December 13; Twilight Wish program at 11:30 a.m. December 15; 500 bid card party from 5:30 to 9 p.m. December 20; Pokeno tournament at noon December 21; Christmas party at 11:30 a.m. December 22. Cost is $5 and includes a catered lunch; Christmas cookie decoration at noon December 23; wellness Wednesday breakfast club from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. December 28; and New Year’s Eve party at 11:30 a.m. December 30. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (724) 285-5392.
9
Butler County Area Agency on Aging
December Menu for senior centers
Senior Express The Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Serving you:
Thursday, December 1: Italian hoagie, vegetable soup, peaches. Friday, December 2: Parmesan garlic chicken, pasta, Italian vegetable medley, applesauce. Monday, December 5: Meatloaf, whipped potatoes, Italian green beans, banana pudding fluff. Tuesday, December 6: Barbecue chicken breast, red potatoes, country vegetable blend, cookie. Wednesday, December 7: Hot roast beef sandwich, cheesey broccoli soup, fruit. Thursday, December 8, Birthday menu: Baked ham slice, mashed sweet potatoes, brussel sprouts, cupcake. Friday, December 9: Breaded pollock, baked potato, garden salad, peaches. Monday, December 12: Ham and scalloped potato casserole, braised cabbage, green beans, ice cream. Tuesday, December 13: Vegetable lasagna, mixed greens, sliced apples.
About the Area Agency on Aging The Butler County Area Agency on Aging (AAoA) is a community service agency for older adults and has operated in Butler County since 1984. The Area Agency on Aging administers programs and manages services for Butler County residents who are 60 years of age or older. Agency programs and services are designed to serve approximately 38,000 older consumers who call Butler County home. Butler County Commissioners Leslie Osche, Republican Kimberly Geyer, Republican Kevin Boozel, Democrat Area Agency on Aging Administrator: Beth A. Herold, RN, BSN, MBA
Wednesday, December 14: Barbecue pulled pork sandwich, rice and black beans, coleslaw, fruit. Thursday, December 15, Christmas special: Stuffed chicken breast, whipped potatoes, peas, chocolate fluff. Friday, December 16: Chili mac, mixed greens, carrots and cabbage, pineapple.
How may we help you? • Community Services for Older Adults and their families • Home and Community Based Services • PDA Waiver Services
Monday, December 19: Hot roast beef sandwich, whipped potatoes, sweet peas and carrots, cookie. Tuesday, December 20: Pasta and meatballs, mixed greens, peaches.
December 2016 • Butler County Senior News
10
Wednesday, December 21: Roast turkey, stuffing, carrots, applesauce. Thursday, December 22: Cheeseburger, oven browned potaoes, coleslaw, fruit. Friday, December 23: Baked pollock, baked potato, beets, fruit salad. Monday, December 26: Pepper steak, parsley potatoes, carrots, applesauce. Tuesday, December 27: Chicken, potatoes, broccoli, fruit salad. Wednesday, December 28: Sloppy Joe sandwich, potato soup, Mandarin oranges. Thursday, December 29, New Year’s special: Roast pork, potatoes, sauerkraut, peas, pineapple upside down cake. Friday, December 30: Shepherd’s pie, corn, coleslaw, pears. December 2016 • Butler County Senior News
Access to Services • Information and Referral • Assessment • Care Management
For more information, call or visit our office at Sunnyview Complex 111 Sunnyview Circle, Suite 101 Butler, PA 16001 Office Hours: Monday through Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Phone: (724) 282-3008 (888) 367-2434 Website: co.butler.pa.us/butler Email: aaainfo@co.butler.pa.us
Butler County resident Jean Purvis wins AARP’s prestigious Andrus Award By Gina Mazza For Butler County Senior News
B
utler resident Jean Purvis, 94, was recently honored with the 2016 AARP Pennsylvania Andrus Award for Community Service — the association’s most prestigious and visible state volunteer award for community service.
AARP’s commitment to volunteer service can be traced back to the life and vision of founder Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus. From the beginning, her motto, “To serve, not to be served.” the Community Health Clinic of Butler County, located on Bonnie Drive in Butler. The clinic provides healthcare for individuals who can’t afford insurance (and still serves as secretary of the clinic’s board of directors)— something that is more important than ever given the cost and red tape associated with healthcare coverage today. Jean also started the Visiting Nurses Association in Butler County
Photo provided by Barbara Bush for Butler County Senior News
Award recipient Jean Purvis with AARP Director, Bill Johnson Walsh, and AARP President Jim Palmquist. and served for years on the Butler Area School District board. “It’s practically impossible to count the number of people young and old who have benefited from Jean’s work in the community,” comments AARP state president Jim Palmquist. “In fact, at 94 years old, she continues to impact her community as much as she did 50 years ago. It’s obvious that in her hometown, Jean serves as a true role model and inspiration for so many in the Butler area. This award acts as a symbol to the public that we can all work together for positive social change, and Jean is a shining example of that.” The award was formally presented to Jean on October 3 in Harrisburg, when AARP Pennsylvania hosted a volunteer recognition event to thank all Pennsylvania volunteers for their dedicated work. Andrus Award winners are nominated by their peers
and the award recipient is chosen by a special committee of AARP Pennsylvania volunteer leaders. This year, Jean was selected out of “an incredibly gifted slate of her peers,” says AARP communications director Barbara Bush. “Jean’s an amazing lady and I’m glad she is getting this special recognition,” adds Steve Gardner of AARP Pennsylvania. AARP’s commitment to volunteer service can be traced back to the life and vision of founder Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus. From the beginning, her motto, “To serve, not to be served,” has shaped AARP’s community service efforts at the national, state and local levels. Jean has made a tremendous contribution to not only her hometown but the entire Butler County. Congratulations, Jean, on receiving this award! BCSN
December 2016 • Butler County Senior News
Named for AARP founder Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, the award recognizes outstanding individuals who are making their communities better in ways that are consistent with AARP’s mission, vision and commitment to volunteer service, and who inspire others to volunteer. Jean has done just that and her contributions to the community are immense. She founded of
11
Lifestyle Changes Can Help Reduce Your Risk of Developing Dementia
M
any people believe dementia—a term used to describe a combination of memory loss, declining communication skills and thinking—is a natural part of aging. Fortunately, this is not true, and the majority of seniors do not develop it. Beginning in our twenties, everyone experiences a slight decline in cognitive abilities, such as short-term memory. If this decline increases and is severe enough to affect daily activities, it is known as dementia. The most common type of dementia is known as Alzheimer’s disease. By 2017, it is estimated that 5.3 million Americans of all ages will have Alzheimer’s disease. Although that number is sobering, it is encouraging to know that: In recent years, there have been advancements in the management of Alzheimer’s symptoms. The focus for Alzheimer’s and dementia research is beginning to broaden. In the past two decades, the attention has been on the end stages of the disease. Now, researchers are looking more closely at the causes of Alzheimer’s and what can be done to prevent it.
December 2016 • Butler County Senior News
12
There are lifestyle changes you can make that may help reduce your risk of developing dementia. Recognizing the Signs of Dementia Dementia is a disease that can impact a person on many levels and in many different areas—or they may be affected by just a few symptoms. It’s helpful to be aware of the symptoms of dementia in order to better understand it or support someone who has it. Symptoms include: Short-term memory loss. Individuals may remember memories from the past, but may have forgotten what they had for lunch or even that they had lunch.
Difficulty completing familiar tasks. Simple tasks that are part of a daily routine become increasingly hard to complete. Disorientation. Becoming lost in a familiar place or not understanding the amount of time that has passed is a common symptom. Misplacing things is, too. Poor judgment. A person with dementia may not only make common mistakes but use poor judgment, such as venture into cold weather without wearing a coat. They also may have difficulty making good moral judgments. Mood and personality changes. Individuals may move through a variety of unrelated moods quickly and without reason. They also may not “seem themselves” and may be irritable, suspicious or fearful. Reduce Risk of Developing Dementia Age, family history and genetics are the greatest factors in determining whether or not someone will develop dementia. While no one can control these things, there are preventive measures that anyone, at any age, can take to help reduce the risk of developing dementia. Get regular exercise. Approximately 30 minutes of aerobic exercise, five times a week is a good goal. Add strengthtraining exercises into the routine to stay even healthier. Eat healthy. Studies suggest that consuming plenty of omega-3 fatty acids may help prevent certain forms of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Foods that contain high quantities include salmon, tuna and trout. Stop smoking. Smoking is one of the most preventable risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, if you are over 65, smoking increases the odds of getting Alzheimer’s disease by nearly 79 percent.
Stay mentally engaged. Puzzles, riddles and games are not only fun, but they may also help prevent dementia. Challenge yourself to do new things, too, such as learn another language or memorize world capitals. Get enough sleep. For most seniors, that means about eight hours each night. Stay socially connected. Talk on the phone or in person with family and friends. Get out and meet new neighbors. Take classes and stay engaged. How to Help a Friend or Family Member with Dementia One of the most difficult problems for people with dementia—as well as their family and those who care for them—is gradual lessening of their ability to communicate. If you have someone in your life who has dementia, the following tips may help you communicate: Maintain a consistent, caring attitude. Even if they may no longer fully understand what you say, they still retain feelings and emotions. Be flexible and always allow plenty of time for them to respond to help them maintain their self-esteem. Speak gently and clearly. Keep sentences short and simple. Use specific names whenever you can, such as, “Your daughter, Jennifer.” Use hand gestures or facial expressions. Pointing or demonstrating can help them understand. Also, holding their hand may help keep their attention and demonstrate that you are there and you care. Finally, in order to help others, remember you first need to take care of yourself. Make sure you are also getting adequate nutrition, rest, exercise, and social and mental stimulation so you continue to stay strong and healthy now, and in the years to come.
NOT TOO LATE IT’S
TO
SWITCH YOUR Medicare Coverage
Don’t miss your chance to get MORE COMPLETE MEDICARE COVERAGE, including extra benefits not covered by Original Medicare, with Gateway Health Medicare AssuredSM.
1-877-GATEWAY/TTY: 711, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., 7 days a week | www.medicareassured.com Gateway HealthSM offers HMO plans with a Medicare contract. Some Gateway Health plans have a contract with Medicaid in the states where they are offered. Enrollment in these plans depends on contract renewal. Gateway Health Special Needs Plans are available to anyone with Medicare and Medicaid. Gateway Health complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. Gateway Health does not exclude people or treat them differently because of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. ATTENTION: If you speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call PA: 1-800-685-5209, OH: 1-888-447-4505, NC: 1-855-847-6430, KY: 1-855-847-6380 (TTY: 711). ATENCIÓN: Si usted habla español, tenemos servicios de asistencia lingüística disponibles para usted sin costo alguno. Llame al PA: 1-800-685-5209, OH: 1-888-447-4505, NC: 1-855-847-6430, KY: 1-855-847-6380 (TTY: 711). PA: 1-800-685-5209, OH: 1-888-447-4505, NC: 1-855-847-6430, KY: 1-855-847-6380 (TTY: 711). Y0097_908 Accepted
December 2016 • Butler County Senior News
CALL TODAY TO LEARN MORE ABOUT YEAR-ROUND ENROLLMENT OPPORTUNITIES.
13
Winter Word Scambler Unscramble the following words correctly for a chance to win $30 cash. 1. iedlgdns ___________
9. oolgi ___________
17. tweih ___________
2. scfra ___________
10. lnwrddaeno ___________
18. dniwy ___________
3. sketsa ___________
11. einwrt ___________
19. drka ___________
4. iislcce ___________
12. lyafim ___________
20. nsaeos ___________
5. cejatk ___________
13. tsah ___________
21. ovancita ___________
6. dbrzaliz ___________
14. rumfsaef ___________
22. gkabni ___________
7. bnlaslwo ___________
15. nnwigos ___________
23. lhsigt ___________
8. otbso ___________
16. weretas ___________
24. ncdeasl ___________
Name________________________________________________
To enter, mail your answers to Butler County 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 Butler County Senior News.
Address______________________________________________ _____________________________________________________ Phone____________________________Age________________
Congratulations to Carolyn Kish who won last month’s contest. The answers were:
1. Watch; 2. Butterfly; 3. Whale; 4. Ice; 5. Bell; 6. River; 7. Toy; 8. Dog; 9. Apple; 10. Paper; 11. Hill; 12. Horse; 13. Water; 14. Hoop; 15. Stop; 16. Shoe; 17. Bug; 18. Tight.
Skilled Short & Long-Term Rehabilitation
724.352.9445 Saxonburg, PA
www.saxonyhealthcenter.org CALL US FOR A PRIVATE CONSULTATION QCF/Saxony Health Center, LLC d/b/a Saxony Health Center. We subscribe to a non-discrimination policy
1172560
December 2016 • Butler County Senior News
14
A small, local business providing tender loving care.
At Stay at Home Quality Care, we provide the personalized care that your loved one needs in the security and comfort of their home. Our compassionate caregivers provide a variety of non-medical care services, whether your loved one needs care once a week, or a more comprehensive care plan. Stay at Home Quality Care is here for you and your loved ones.
Estate Planning Essentials
Crossword Puzzle answer on page 2
When a senior loved one ends up in a nursing home for rehabilitation, the entire family is justifiably concerned about who will pay for that care, because cost of care can easily be $250 per day, and with rehabilitation services, much more.
Partner Partner at at Heritage Law Heritage Elder Elder Law
The first 20 days are paid 100%. The next 80 days are paid partially, but there is an expensive co-pay per day. For many people, their supplemental insurance covers that copay. What happens if you successfully rehab and go home, and end up back in the hospital a couple of months later? The 100 day clock will reset and you will get another 100 days if there has been a 60 day gap between leaving the nursing home and the subsequent hospital admission. This is not unlimited, as there is a lifetime limit, but that is rarely a limit that anyone reaches. Alternatively, what happens if you are unable to return home by the end of the 100 days? At this point, Medicare quits paying and the patient must pay privately for care. With the average cost of care exceeding $8,900 per month in Pennsylvania, many families have trouble making ends meet. Most families in this situation should consult with an elder law attorney to understand how Medicaid benefits can be accessed to pay for care. The Medicaid rules are complex and require considerable planning. To find out more about this topic and other legal issues affecting seniors, attend a FREE EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOP at the Heritage Elder Law & Estate Planning, LLO, Mars Office on December 8 at 2 p.m. or December 15 at 6 p.m.; at the M a y 1 8 a t 6 p . m. Butler Office December 7 at 6 p.m. or December 14 at 2 p.m. M a yworkshops, 5 a t call To RSVP or to find out about other upcoming 6 p841-0004 . m. or visit HeritageElderLaw.com. (724) BE-1300922
PAID ADVERTISING
©King Features
ACROSS 1 Hallmark offering 5 Baseball’s Ripken 8 Leave out 12 Sheltered 13 Khan title 14 Verdi opera 15 Coral formation 16 Debtor’s letters 17 Radiate 18 Patisserie buy 20 Yuletide tune 22 Rural plane 26 Cracks jokes 29 Gallery display 30 Call — day 31 Regarding 32 Whatever 33 One-named supermodel 34 Goat’s plaint 35 Half of CIV 36 Refine metal 37 Farmer’s windfall 40 Campus VIP 41 Soon 45 Zwei follower 47 Do something 49 Zhivago’s love 50 Scepters 51 Cartoonist Chast 52 Actor Rickman 53 Goblet feature 54 TV Tarzan Ron 55 Warble
DOWN 1 Give a darn 2 Sir Guinness 3 Stagger 4 Actually 5 Nile city 6 In the past 7 Hamper filler 8 Wise ones 9 Play video games while waiting 10 Altar affirmative 11 Dog’s foot 19 Apr. addressee 21 Chic no more 23 Freak out 24 List-ending abbr. 25 Harangue 26 Doorframe piece 27 Birthright barterer 28 Out-of-control herd 32 Flying fee 33 Leaping antelopes 35 Zodiac cat 36 Junior 38 Spectrum creator 39 Posh 42 Island near Java 43 Persia, today 44 Tart flavor 45 ER workers 46 Hogwash 48 Army rank (Abbr.)
December 2016 • Butler County Senior News
Timothy Sechler Sechler Timothy
The first thing to know, is that if the patient has had a three day hospital stay as an admitted patient prior to entering the nursing home, Medicare will pay for the stay and the rehabilitation, subject to limits. Here is how it works.
15
Ambulance Service • Wheelchair Van Service
Care You Can Count On
Serving the Community Since 1967
• Our wheelchair van service, Butler Assist Coach, currently operates 14 vans providing transport to and from hospitals, doctor’s appointments, nursing homes, and private events (i.e. funerals, weddings, birthdays, etc.) • Our Assist Coach is available to individuals: with or without their own wheelchairs; with stairs or other obstacles at their residence; and those needing extra assistance in and out of their wheelchairs. • BAS also provides emergency and non-emergency ambulance transports to sick and injured patients. • We operate 11 ambulances from 3 stations, serving the community 24 hours a day. • Reduced rates are available for members.
Butler Ambulance Service • 106 First Street Butler, PA 16001 • (724) 283-4385
Live LIFE…At Home
Lifesteps Adult Day Health Services … a safe, home-like, medically-monitored day program.
Yo u O n l y Wa n
t th
e Be
s t Fo r T h e m …
When they need care… – A Partnership in Caring – LIFE offers comprehensive medical care, adult day services and homecare to help older adults, age 55 and older, live at home. Services include all medical care, prescription coverage, physical therapy, transportation and more. Contact us for assistance in determining your eligibility for the program. You may qualify and not even realize it. 231 W. Diamond Street Butler, PA 16001
Let Lifesteps Adult Day Health Services help. Monday–Friday 7 am–6 pm
• Are you worried about leaving your loved one alone all day?
Financial assistance may be available
• Would your loved one have difficulty knowing what to do or who to call in an emergency?
Nutritious Meals & Snacks
Schedule a FREE Trial Visit!
724-287-LIFE (5433) Call 711 for TTY Relay Services www.lutheranseniorlife.org/LIFE A Partnership of Lutheran SeniorLife and Butler Health System
724.283.1010 • www.lifesteps.net