Butler County Senior News
July 2016
Volume 10, Number 12
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The Aging Institute serves as a great resource for seniors, professionals and caregivers Life expectancy in the United States continues to rise, with many living far into their 80s and 90s. At the same time, due to many factors (including the rising cost of medical care and cost of living), older adults are choosing to stay at home or live with a loved one. For seniors and caregivers alike, this transition can be a challenge. You may have unanswered questions
about finances, home-based care options, Medicare and more. The Aging Institute of UPMC Senior Services and the University of Pittsburgh is a great resource for seniors, professionals and caregivers to find information and advice on a plethora of topics related to aging. If any of the following apply to you, The Aging Institute may be able to help.
1. You’re a primary caregiver for an elderly relative. Being the primary caregiver for a loved one comes with many challenges. A new caregiver may have to take on previously unfamiliar tasks such as administering medication, bathing, dressing, feeding and preparing meals, and more. 2015 King Features Syndicate, Inc.
Continued on page 5
Publisher’s Corner
Aging Waiver Service Coordination Choose the local option!
Owner/Publisher: Lynn Webster Editor: Gina Mazza Art Director: Burnfield Consulting Sales Executive: Wallace Webster
Figuring out the best health insurance coverage and options for yourself or your loved one can seem like a daunting task, but help is close at hand in Butler County though the APPRISE Program. Turn to page 6 to learn more. Wishing everyone a Happy Fourth!
Lynn Webster
Center for Community Resources' Butler based Service Coordinators are responsive, caring and committed to helping you maintain your independence.
Photographer: Chuck LeClaire Printing Company: Knepper Press Contributing Writers: Brittany Buzzelli Gina Mazza Intern: Kara Boyle
Conveniently located in the Sunnyview Complex. 121 Sunnyview Circle, Suite 131 Butler, PA 16001
724-431-3748 www.ccrinfo.org
Proofreader: Jeff Makkos Volume 10, Number 12 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
July 2016 • Butler County Senior News
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(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 • Allegheny County Senior Resource Guide •Beaver County Senior Resource Guide
Crossword Puzzle Answer (See page 15)
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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.
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In Memory of John A. Hogan, Sr. Carmella M. Hogan Michael J. Hogan, Sr. Wayne Hogan
* The Zelienople-Harmony Farmers Market will be held from 3:30 to 7 p.m. Mondays through September at Zelienople Park, East Beaver St., Zelienople. The market features a variety of vendors from local farmers to small area businesses. Call (724) 473-0017.
Estate Planning Essentials 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.
* The annual Big Butler Fair will take place July 1 to 9 at the Butler Fairgrounds, 1127 New Castle Rd., Prospect. Enjoy fireworks, midway games, demolition derbies, concerts, truck pulls and more. Call (724) 865-2400 or visit bigbutlerfair.com/. * A Mars Fourth of July community celebration will take place at 4 p.m. July 4 at the park on Pittsburgh St., Mars. Enjoy a picnic near the spaceship. There will be a parade at 5 p.m. and fireworks at dusk. * The American Legion Post 117, 413 S Main St., Butler, along the City of Butler, presents the 12th annual American Legion Riders Vets Motorcycle ride July 23. Kickstands go up at 11:15 a.m. and the ride ends at Post 778 in Lyndora for food, music and fun. Cost is $20 per single rider, $5 for passengers. Register for the ride from 9:30 to 11 a.m. (before the race) at Quaker Steak and Lube on Freedom Road in Cranberry Township or VA Butler Healthcare on New Castle Road in Butler. Tickets can be purchased for a Rider’s Raffle. * The Saxonburg carnival takes place July 25 to 30 at the Saxonburg Volunteer Fire Company, 210 Horne Ave., Saxonburg. Enjoy food, rides, pet parade, water battle, pageant, largest fireman’s parade east of the Mississippi, raffle drawing and more. Open each night from 6 to 11 p.m. and kiddie matinees are from 1 to 6 p.m. Wednesday and Saturday afternoons. Call (724) 352-3300 or visit svfc.com/SVFCCarnival.asp. * The Summer Dramatics Project presents The Wizard of Oz in the Succop Theater on the Campus of Butler County Community College, Campus Dr., Butler. Show dates are July 28, 29, 30 at 7:30 p.m. and July 31 at 2 p.m. Cost is $15 for reserved premium center and $12 for reserved side sections. Call (724) 287-4214. * Discover Scuba will be offered from 6 to 8 p.m. July 19 at Zelienople Community Park, 402 East Beaver St., Zelienople. Learn what it is like breathing underwater. A professional instructor will introduce the basics on land concluding with a dive in the pool. Ages 10 to adult only. Register online. Minimum of 4 students needed. Cost is $45 per person. Call (724) 452-0231. * Purses for a Purpose Party is set to take place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. July 17 at Clearview Mall, 101 Clearview Circle, Butler. There will over $25,000 in prizes. Proceeds benefit the United Way of Butler County. Cost is $40 per person. Call (724) 285-4883 to purchase or buy online at guestli.st/349662. BCSN
Timothy Sechler Partner at Heritage Elder Law
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.
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 M a y 1 8 a t 6 p .m. Office on July 6, at 6 p.m. To RSVP or to find M a y 5 at out about other upcoming workshops, call 6 p . m. (724) 841-0024 or visit HeritageElderLaw.com. BE-1300922
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July 2016 • Butler County Senior News
Entertainments and Events
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The Aging Institute serves as a great resource for seniors, professionals and caregivers Continued from page 1
July 2016 • Butler County Senior News
Miller’s Quality Meats At the Italian AgingPastry Institute, Moio’s Shop you can find information on home-based care opMongolian Grille tions, education and training, chronic Morgan Stanley care coordination, financial planning, Mountaineer Casino, Racetrack & Resort social and emotional support, geriatThemedical Nace Family ric care and more. The more National Aviary information you have, the easier it is to transition into andResort maintain your Nemacolin Woodlands role as a primary caregiver without Northern Connection and Pittsburgh feeling overwhelmed by your new Fifty-Five Plus Magazines responsibilities. OK Grocery Company 2. You’re a professional Omni William Penn Hotelwho wants to prepare yourself for the challenges of One Brilliant Boutique treating an aging population. Operation Veteran Benefits a Community Service of physicians The Aging Institute helps byBrian offering special programs Catale & Associates and seminars, seedingWomen’s new andProf. novel research PA Rebellion into aging related topics through the Fastpitch Softball Seed Grant Program, advocating for Penn Fixture & Supply Co. physicians regarding age-related Pete Piotrowski State Farm Agent guest legislation, and underwriting Phipps Conservatory Botanical lectures by experts inand geriatric research and care. Inc. Gardens, Pittsburgh Theatre The AgingBallet Institute also offers educaPittsburgh tional andImprov training programs for proPittsburgh working International fessionals in hospitals, clinics, long-term facilities, home health, Children’scare Theatre and a variety settings. Pittsburgh Irishof&other Classical Theatre Pittsburgh Knit & Crochet Festivalto:and These programs are designed Pittsburgh Creative Arts Festival 2 promote increased sensitivity and Pittsburgh awarenessMagazine of general aging-related isPittsburgh Marriott North sues and needs. Pittsburgh New Music Ensemble 2 improve the direct clinical skills of Pittsburgh Opera professionals. Pittsburgh Penguins
2 address special issues concerning aging adults, such as sexuality and Pittsburgh Playhouse of gender, long-term care directives, and Point Park University dementia.
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
3. You’re Steak a student Pittsburgh Housewho wants to break intoSteelers the field and learn more Pittsburgh about geriatrics. Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra
Pittsburgh Zoowith & PPG As a partner theAquarium Division of GePremierMedicine PlacementatServices of Pittsburgh riatric the University of Pittsburgh, The Aging Institute works Quaker Steak & Lube collaboratively Gerald Raubaugh to provide support for education training programs for Renaissance Hotel professionals and The Rivers Casino students who are looking grow in the field. Roberta’stoSkin Care Robison Acres Plant encourages Sanctuary LLC The Aging Institute young Drs. Ellen and Loren Rothfield is through people to enter into the Donna and Elliott Sanft their participation in the University of Pittsburgh’s Health Career Scholars Senator John Heinz History Center Academy, a unique Seneca Hills Village summer program for gifted high Seneca Manor school students. High school from across the state Senecastudents Place and beyond spend four weeks examinSeven Springs Mountain Resort ing critical issues and emerging career Sherwood Oaks opportunities in healthcare.
The Skin Center Students who choose geriatrics conDaniel Smyers centration South Hills receive Country and Club in-depth look at the field Denise Stahlfrom the staff and board members of The Aging Institute, Standard Textile Company whose Steven members Sadvary include some of the world’s leading researchers and cliniStrabane Trails Village cians in their disciplines. Hands on Strabane Woods Manor exercises and site visits to research Sugar Creek Station centers introduce students to both Sysco Pittsburgh the challenges and opportunities of Family ofcare. Donald Szabo geriatric Robert Taylor
Students explore aging issues such as: 2016 4TEDDICO Chronic painSpring/Summer and mood disorders
Tennis Village Tortorice Limousine 4TRIMark Falls and difficulty walking Men and A Truckand dementia 4Two Memory problems University of Pittsburgh Department 4 Complex health problems affecting of Athletics the elderly University of Pittsburgh Panthers 4.UPMC You’re an advocate forServices seniors and Centers for Rehab would to get involved. UPMClike Community Provider Services UPMC East The Aging Institute partners with many UPMC Horizon organizations to aid in their mission to provide information UPMC McKeesport and resources to seniors their caregivers and is alUPMC and Mercy ways looking for more local businesses UPMC Palliative and Supportive Institute and professionals to join their cause. UPMC Passavant 5.UPMC You’rePresbyterian an older adult who is explorShadyside ingLadies options for future care. Hospital Aid Society UPMCprepared Presbyterianfor Shadyside Being how you will handle your&future care makes for a Volunteer Community Services much smoother transition. You can find UPMC St. Margaret information on living at home, in-home Upper Crust nursing care, senior living facilities, Vanadium Woods Village financial aid and Medicare and more. Verve 360 Wellness Free events are offered regularly Vessel Glass Studio through UPMC Senior Communities Virgin Carpets that are aimed at helping seniors stay Washington Health System informed and gain insight into comWashington Wild Things mon concerns. Weatherwood Manor The Aging Institute has something for Cyril Wecht, MD, JD everyone when it comes to geriatrics. For Western Psychiatricvisit Institute and Clinic more information, Aging.UPMC. UPMC comofor call the help and referral line at Wildwood Highlands (866) 430-8742. 4 Balance disorders
Need help finding community resources for seniors or caregivers? Call the Aging Institute of UPMC Senior Services and the University of Pittsburgh free referral line at 1-866-430-8742 or visit Aging.UPMC.com.
4 Omissions or errors – We are grateful for the ongoing support given by our contributors and make every effort to report giving
Alternative Treatments Help Improve Quality of Life
Your Cells. Your Lungs. Your Breath.
By Phoebe Brown For Butler County Senior News
D
iagnosis with chronic diseases can pose issues with living life fully, navigating the healthcare industry and finding the right treatment options. For people with lung diseases, treatment options which address the disease itself are scarce. Even Hollywood has noticed how lack of treatment options affects people.
Though many patients are left to research alternatives on their own, new medical advancements can now provide people with chronic lung diseases a viable treatment option.
Movies like Dallas Buyers Club illustrate the struggles of being diagnosed with a chronic, progressive disease with few treatment options. The main character, Ron Woodroof, was diagnosed with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) in 1986. With limited treatment options, Woodroof refused to succumb to AIDS without a fight. He researched various medicine combinations only available in other countries. Along with his doctor and another patient, Woodroof founded the Dallas Buyers Club in 1988, providing AIDS patients with smuggled medications. Woodroof lost his fight with AIDS in September 1992. Because he could see beyond the complacency of the medical community and sought alternative treatment options, he extended his life six years longer than his physicians thought possible.
Stem cells act as the body’s healing system. The body alerts them and sends them to the place that needs repair. The physicians at the Lung Institute realized this and developed a procedure to help stem cells do their job better. Physicians extract stem cells from a patient’s blood or bone marrow tissue, separate them and return them intravenously. The cells travel through the heart and into the lungs where they aggregate. Once there, they can promote healing, potentially improving lung function. Although Woodroof lacked alternative treatment options in the U.S., options are available for people with chronic lung diseases. With clinics nationwide, the Lung Institute has treated over 2,500 patients. A recent Lung Institute study indicated that 82 percent of patients saw an increase in quality of life after treatment, and 60 percent of those who took a pulmonary function test reported an increase in lung function. With medical advancements like stem cell therapy, addressing the disease at its source offers people an alternative that is helping them regain their quality of life. If you or a loved one suffer from a chronic lung disease, the specialists at the Lung Institute may be able to help. You can contact the Lung Institute at (855) 978-5767 or visit lunginsitute.com/SeniorNews to find out if you qualify for these new treatments. BCSN
With your stem cells, we may be able to help treat:
COPD Emphysema Pulmonary Fibrosis
Your stem cells can return lost lung function Promote healing in your lungs through a minimally invasive, outpatient treatment using your body’s own stem cells.
Register for our next Pittsburgh seminar on July 26th at 4 p.m. or join us online. Call today to reserve your seat!
(855) 978-5767
LungInstitute.com/SeniorNews NATIONAL LOCATIONS | PITTSBURGH LOCATION: 100 Northpointe Circle Ste. 103, Seven Fields, PA 16046
July 2016 • Butler County Senior News
Like Woodroof, patients with lung diseases are often prescribed the traditional regimen, which only addresses disease symptoms. However, medical advancements now provide people with another treatment option. A specialty clinic in the U.S., the Lung Institute (www.lunginstitute. com), treats people with COPD, emphysema, pulmonary fibrosis and other chronic lung diseases using stem cells from the patient’s own body.
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Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Senior Express
APPRISE counselors help older adults understand their health insurance options; volunteers needed in Butler County Let an APPRISE counselor help you APPRISE counselors can assist you by: 2 explaining how Medicare Advantage plans such as HMOs or PPOs work so you can decide if a supplemental policy is right for you. 2 helping you understand your “original Medicare” benefits by explaining what services are covered under Medicare Parts A and B.
F
iguring out the best health insurance coverage and options for yourself or your loved one can seem like a daunting task, but help is close at hand in Butler County through the APPRISE Program. APPRISE—also known as Pennsylvania’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)—was created by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging to provide free counseling to help individuals understand their healthcare benefits.
July 2016 • Butler County Senior News
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In Butler County, APPRISE is operated by the Butler County Area Agency on Aging. The program’s counselors are specially trained staff and volunteers who can answer questions about Medicare and provide objective, easyto-understand information about health insurance—including Medicare Supplemental Insurance, Medicaid and Long-Term Care Insurance. “Our APPRISE counselors can take a look at your specific situation and see what you qualify for,” explains Brittany Buzzelli, Community Liaison/APPRISE July 2016 • Butler County Senior News
coordinator with Butler County AAoA. “We can also help you determine what a scam is and what the real deal is. We’re an objective source; we don’t represent any particular insurance company. As independent advisors, our counselors cannot tell anyone what the best plan is for them but we can help them decide themselves. We can help a senior compare all plans and decide which one is best for them, including looking at retiree options versus Medicare. We even have an outreach focus that identifies people who might qualify for extra help.” APPRISE counselors receive intensive training so they can understand all aspects of Medicare and supplemental insurance benefits and coverage, compare Medicare prescription drug plans, and complete applications for programs that help pay for prescriptions, premiums, medical expenses and more. Refresher courses keep them current on changes with Medicare and other insurance plans.
2 telling you about programs that offer assistance paying for prescription drugs, their eligibility requirements, and how to apply. 2 helping you find government programs that will pay your Medicare deductibles, co-payments and your Part B premiums, and assisting you in filling out the paperwork. 2 explaining long-term care insurance options, eligibility requirements, which companies offer private long-term care insurance, and how to select the best policy for you. The best way to choose a prescription drug plan or supplemental insurance is to make an informed decision by evaluating multiple factors, including monthly premiums, annual deductibles, co-pays and formularies of several prescription drug plans. APPRISE counselors simplify this process for seniors and help them decide which plan will meet their needs.
Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Senior Express
Become an APPRISE volunteer
In addition to bringing on volunteers to work as health insurance counselors, Butler County AAoA is also looking to fill the following volunteer positions: 4 APPRISE secretaries who can answer and screen phone calls 4 APPRISE data entry clerks to input client contact sheets on the state’s insurance database 4 APPRISE presenters to go to senior centers and other community sites to present basic information on Medicare/Medicaid and enrollment information “We are able to customize a volunteer program within APPRISE to best suit and showcase the volunteer’s personal needs and skills,” Brittany explains. “We are also very flexible with our time commitment and would like volunteers to commit to APPRISE at least one time per month for a one-hour minimum. Again, we provide all the training our volunteers may need.” The classes include information on Medicare, Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage, Medigap, appeals, fraud and abuse, and more. The State Department of Aging, in partnership with the Butler County APPRISE Program, is hosting APPRISE volunteer training sessions from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on August 23, 25 and 30 at the Butler Library. Volunteers must attend all three days of training in order to become a certified APPRISE counselor. There is no cost for the training, which is being hosted by Adele Dean, APPRISE’s regional coordinator for western Pennsylvania.
Butler County Farmers Market Vo u c h e r D i s t r i b u ti o n Schedule Butler County Area Agency on Aging 111 Sunnyview Circle, Building III, Butler 16001 Distribution at the Area Agency on Aging* Friday, July 1 - Wednesday, August 31 Hours: 10:00AM—3:00PM *W h i l e s u p p l i e s l a s t
East Butler Borough Building 1105 Randolph Ave., East Butler 16029 Thursday, July 7—1:00PM—3:00PM Butler Arbors Apartments 200 Lincoln Avenue, Butler 16001 Tuesday, July 14 –11:00AM—2:00PM Glade Run Church Rt. 8 South, Pittsburgh Rd., Valencia 16059 Tuesday, July 19—10:00AM—12:00PM Deener’s Farm Market 21255 Route 19, Cranberry Township 16066 Friday, July 22—2:00PM—4:00PM Ambrose Farm Market 991 Bear Creek Road, Cabot 16023 Monday, July 25—10:00AM-12:00PM Park Manor Apartments Alameda Rd., Butler 16001 Thursday, July 28—10:00AM—12:00PM
Here is what one APPRISE volunteer had to say about his experience with the program: “It’s been a wonderful opportunity for me in many ways. Being an APPRISE volunteer has allowed me to use my talents to help other people in a meaningful way and to make a difference. It is truly rewarding work and a wonderful feeling when you are able to help someone.” The Butler County Area Agency on Aging has APPRISE counselors available to help you. It also has pamphlets and brochures available that explain your benefits and rights under the various health insurance programs. To learn more, call (724) 282-3008. To learn more about becoming an APPRISE volunteer, call Brittany Buzzelli at (724) 282-3008 or email Bbuzzell@co.butler.pa.us. BCSN July 2016 • Butler County Senior News
July 2016 • Butler County Senior News
The Butler County Area Agency on Aging is currently looking for APPRISE volunteers. “You do not need to have any prior experience or know anything about health insurance or Medicare/ Medicaid,” says Brittany. “We provide all of the training needed. In fact, most APPRISE counselors start out as concerned citizens who have a question or issue regarding their own health insurance. Once they find the answer, they want to learn more and share what they have learned with others.”
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Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Senior Express
LEND A HAND
THE BUTLER COUNTY APPRISE PROGRAM The Butler County Area Agency on Aging is seeking new volunteers for the APPRISE Program. APPRISE is the State Health Insurance Assistance Program. APPRISE provides free counseling for people with Medicare in Pennsylvania.
July 2016 • Butler County Senior News
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An APPRISE counselor helps with: understanding Medicare benefits and services; helping people make informed choices about selecting insurance, such as a Medigap policy, Medicare Advantage Plan or Part D prescription drug plan; helping beneficiaries apply for financial assistance programs; explaining the Medicare Summary Notice, and assisting with the appeal process and paperwork, just to name a few. APPRISE also has volunteers who assist with data entry, public speaking and more. If you’re looking for an opportunity to give back to your community, make friends, or expand your knowledge of Medicare, APPRISE is the program for you! Help us take some of the confusion out of Medicare! If you would like to learn more about the APPRISE Program and the rewarding volunteer opportunities that we offer, please contact Brittany Buzzelli at the Butler County Area Agency on Aging at 724-282-3008, or Bbuzzell@co.butler.pa.us Locally, the Butler County Area Agency on Aging is hosting a FREE, three-day APPRISE training for interested volunteers in August at the Butler Library. Call today for more information!
July 2016 • Butler County Senior News
Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Senior Express
Senior Center events _ Butler Senior Center, 10 Austin Ave., (located in Tanglewood Senior Center), Lyndora, offers the following events: Seniors for Safe Driving from noon to 4 p.m. July 5. Call (800) 559-4880 to register; 500 card party at noon July 6, cost is $2.50; Medicare fraud and abuse at 11:30 a.m. July 7; prize bingo at 10 a.m. July 8; Mary Kay mini make overs at 10 a.m. July 13; birthday celebration and leadership meeting at 11:30 a.m. July 14; home care staffing at 11 a.m. July 21; and wellness Wednesday breakfast club from 9 to 10 a.m. July 27. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (724) 285-5392.
_ Mars Senior Center, Penn Mar Plaza, Gilkey Dr., offers the following activities: Fourth of July party at noon July 1; UPMC health and wellness expo from 9 to 11 a.m. July 11; hot fudge sundaes at 1 p.m. July 12. Cost is $1 each; birthday celebration at noon and senior bullying program at 1 p.m. July 14; Ken-Ducky-Derby race fundraiser from 1 to 2 p.m. July 20. Call manager for details; leadership meeting at 1 p.m. July 21; and wellness Wednesday breakfast club at 9 a.m. and de clutter program at 1:30 p.m. July 27. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday Call (724) 625-4466.
_ Chicora Senior Center, lower level of Moose Hall, 117 West Slippery Rock St., offers the following events: adult coloring contest and hoagie sale starts July 1; Fourth of July celebration July 5, bring in a red, white or blue snack to share; birthday celebration, hoagie orders with payments due, and bingo at 10:15 a.m. July 14. Cost for bingo is $.50 per card; leadership meeting at 10:15 a.m. July 19; hoagie pick up after 11 a.m. and judging of coloring contest July 21; and bingo at 10:15 a.m. July 28, cost is $.50 per card. The center is open from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. Call (724) 445-2551.
_ Mount Chestnut Senior Center, Presbyterian Church, 727 Old Route 422, will offer the following events: blood pressure screening at 11:30 a.m. July 7; Bible study at 10:15 a.m. and leadership meeting at 12:45 p.m. July 11; birthday celebration July 14; Wii bowling July 18; ageism and bullying at 12:30 p.m. July 21; and wellness Monday breakfast club at 10 a.m. and book club at 10:15 a.m. July 25. The center is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays. Call (724) 282-6006.
_ Evans City Senior Center, 426 East Main St., offers the following events: Kayaking and picnic, meet at McDaniel’s launch at 1 p.m. July 8; drum circle at 1 p.m. July 13; leadership meeting at 1 p.m. and birthday celebration July 14; white elephant bingo at 1 p.m. July 18; elder law at 1 p.m. July 20; and wellness Wednesday breakfast club at 10 a.m. July 27. The center is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. Call (724) 538-9414.
_ Southeast Senior Center, Winfield Township Firehall, Brose Rd., offers the following upcoming events: leadership meeting at 10 a.m. and nickel bingo at 10:30 a.m. July 5; nickel bingo at 10:30 a.m. July 7, 19 and 21; pokeno at 10:30 a.m. July 12 and 26; birthday party July 14; and wellness Tuesday breakfast club at 9 a.m. July 26. 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
July 2016 • Butler County Senior News
July 2016 • Butler County Senior News
_ Cranberry Senior Center, Municipal Building, Rochester Rd., offers the following events: Physical therapy program at 11 a.m. and Little Caesar pizza orders and payment due July 7; birthday celebration July 14; Little Caesar pizza delivery from 10 a.m. to noon and 500 card party at 12:30 p.m. July 19; Rivers Casino and Pirates Game at noon July 20. Call the manager for details; leadership meeting at 10:30 a.m. July 21; and wellness Wednesday breakfast club at 8:30 a.m. July 27. The center is open from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (724) 772-6086.
_ Slippery Rock Senior Center, Township Building, 155 Branchton Rd., will offer the following events: Artwork entry day at the Big Butler Fair July 1; Independence Day celebration at 11 a.m. July 5; pancake and sausage breakfast at 9 a.m. July 6. A $2 donation is requested. birthday celebration at 12:30 p.m. July 14; leadership meeting at 12:30 p.m. July 21; and wellness Wednesday breakfast club at 9 a.m. July 27. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. Call (724) 794-6440.
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Butler County Area Agency on Aging
July 2016 • Butler County Senior News
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July 2016 • Butler County Senior News
Senior Express
Butler County Area Agency on Aging July Menu for senior centers
Senior Express The Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Serving you:
Friday, July 1: Hamburger, macaroni salad, beets, fruit. Monday, July 4, Happy Fourth of July: Centers closed.
About the Area Agency on Aging
Tuesday, July 5: Baked meatloaf, parsley potatoes, mixed vegetable blend, applesauce.
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.
Wednesday, July 6: Sweet and sour chicken, rice, broccoli and carrot medley, fruit, fortune cookie. Thursday, July 7, Birthday menu: Stuffed pork chop, whipped potatoes, Italian vegetable medley, coleslaw, cupcake. Friday, July 8: Pepperoni pizza, mixed green salad, peaches. Monday, July 11: Grilled chicken sandwich, potato salad, mixed fruit salad. Tuesday, July 12: Hot dog with sauerkraut, whipped potatoes, peas, fruit. Wednesday, July 13: Pasta and meatballs, tossed salad, apple slices. Thursday, July 14: Seasoned chicken breast, rice pilaf, vegetable medley, fruit. Friday, July 15: Tuna salad, tomato soup, cottage cheese, fruit. Monday, July 18: Baked salisbury steak, garlic and butter potato, broccoli, lemon fluff dessert. Tuesday, July 19: Turkey and cheddar sandwich, potato soup, fruit. Wednesday, July 20: Baked pollock fillet, baked potato, peas, banana pudding. Thursday, July 21: Grilled chicken salad, tossed salad, fruit, gelatin. Friday, July 22: Italian hoagie, redskin potatoes, fruit. Monday, July 25: Meatball sub, coleslaw, mixed bean medley, fruit. Tuesday, July 26: Breaded pork chop, whipped potatoes, succotash, cookie. Wednesday, July 27: Potato crusted fish, macaroni and cheese, stewed tomatoes, applesauce. Thursday, July 28: Roast chicken breast, creamed red potatoes with peas, carrots, pineapple and oranges.
Butler County Commissioners Leslie Osche, Republican Kimberly Geyer, Republican Kevin Boozel, Democrat Area Agency on Aging Administrator: Beth A. Herold, RN, BSN, MBA How may we help you? • Community Services for Older Adults and their families • Home and Community Based Services • PDA Waiver Services 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: www.co.butler.pa.us/butler Email: aaainfo@co.butler.pa.us
Friday, July 29: Chef salad, tossed salad, diced pears. BCSN
July 2016 • Butler County Senior News
July 2016 • Butler County Senior News
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Local veteran can hear again after a lifetime of service
A
little over two years ago, Howard Thielman received a Cochlear Implant at the Pittsburgh VA Hospital, and his life hasn’t been the same since.
“If I would’ve known then what I do now, I would’ve looked into getting the surgery a long time ago,” Howards says. “It’s one of the best things that could have happened to me. After struggling for so many years with hearing loss, what Cochlear has done with this technology and how it’s helped me to hear again is nothing short of miraculous.” The start of Howard’s hearing loss can be traced back decades to his time serving in the military. He was in the Marine Corps, serving as a rifleman (0311) from 1961-1965. During his time in the Corps, Howard was stationed on the U.S.S. Enterprise, the world’s first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier responsible for providing security to American troops deployed overseas. As a rifleman on the U.S.S. Enterprise, Howard was constantly inundated with loud and repetitive noises like gun shots, heavy-duty machinery, and aircraft landing and taking off onboard the navy vessel. “Back then, we were all young twenty-somethings, the military didn’t have the kind of safeguards in place like they do now with our service members,” Howard remembers. “Now, they’re given devices to safeguard their ears. Protecting our hearing wasn’t really a priority for the military or for any of us. We were more concerned with protecting our ship and our troops. We didn’t give too much thought to the lasting effects of being exposed to repetitive, loud noises and what damage that could do down the road to our health.” After being honorably discharged from the Marine Corps and returning to civilian life, Howard secured a position as a refueler, working first at the Allegheny County Airport in West Mifflin before transferring out to work at the Pittsburgh International Airport in Findlay Township in 1968. He worked as a refueler for more than 40 years and only recently retired.
July 2016 • Butler County Senior News
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As a refueler, Howard was forced to deal with many of the same sounds that he encountered while in the Corps, like rumbling high-powered engines and planes landing and taking. “Working as a refueler is hard work and can at times be dangerous and chaotic. It’s hard to articulate just how loud the runway and that environment can be. You get used to it. I know I did and so did my coworkers but I noticed as the years progressed, my ability to hear was waning. As I got older, I wore hearing aids, but then they weren’t even strong enough to help me,” Howard comments. Individuals like Howard who are continually exposed to loud, repetitive noises, can incur permanent hearing loss, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), one of institutes within the NIH. What Howard encountered during his time in the Marine Corps and as a refueler is called Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL).
Howard and Diana Thielman
The NIDCD estimates that approximately 15 percent of Americans between the ages of 20 and 69—or 26 million Americans—have hearing loss that may have been caused by exposure to noise at work or in leisure activities. The NIDCD estimates that approximately 15 percent of Americans between the ages of 20 and 69—or 26 million Americans— have hearing loss that may have been caused by exposure to noise at work or in leisure activities. Because sound is measured in units called decibels, sounds of less than 75 decibels, even after long exposure, are unlikely to cause hearing loss. However, with long, repeated exposure to sounds at or above 85 decibels, hearing loss can occur. The louder the sound, the shorter the amount of time it takes for NIHL to happen. “I was about to throw in the towel when it came to my hearing. One of my hobbies is amateur radio and I host my own show. It got to the point where I couldn’t do that any longer. My wife also acted as my interpreter when we’d go out to dinner with friends. When you lose your hearing or you’re hard of hearing, when you go out in public people kind of look at you like a burden or a nuisance. I finally decided that after wearing hearing aids for so many years I would look into what could possibly be done,” Howard said. After investigating his options, Howard discovered that the Department of Veterans Affairs offers Cochlear Implants as a part of its healthcare services. Because of Howard’s time in the Marine Corps, his VA status as a service-connected veteran, and meeting the medical qualifications, his implant was covered at no cost to him. He had his surgery performed at the Pittsburgh VA Hospital in the spring of 2013. The service is also covered by Medicare. “I can’t say enough good things about the VA Hospital, I got no complaints and the doctors there literally saved my life. They say I’m their first patient who ever had life-saving ear surgery,” Howard says.
NIDCD Decibel Guide The humming of a refrigerator 45 decibels Normal conversation 60 decibels Noise from heavy city traffic 85 decibels Motorcycles 95 decibels
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An MP3 player at maximum volume 105 decibels
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Sharon Carroll is Engagement Manager for Cochlear Americas and based in Pittsburgh. She works with individuals like Howard before, during, and after the implantation surgery. She has gotten to know Howard during the last year-anda-half. “He is a great voice for our veteran population and all he wants to do is tell veterans what their options are,” Sharon says. “So many of them aren’t aware that they might be eligible for a Cochlear Implant and Howard is a perfect example of what is possible.” Since getting his Cochlear Implant and recuperating from his heart attack, Howard is so busy it’s hard to keep up with him, his wife, Diana, shares. Howard is on the board of directors at the Moon Township Volunteer Fire Company, and a member of the Marine Corps League of Sewickley, Vietnam Veterans (Rochester branch), U.S.S. Enterprise Association, and the U.S. Sea Going Marine Association. He also plays an active role with the Boggs Run Volunteer Fire Department in Moon Township, where he was a lieutenant and captain for 11 years. “I would recommend that anyone who is dealing with hearing loss look into getting a Cochlear Implant,” Howard says. “I’ve found a new lease on life and it’s really helped with my daily life.” BCSN To learn more about hearing loss and if you might be eligible for a Cochlear Implant, visit Cochlear.com or call (877) 804-4000.
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July 2016 • Butler County Senior News
When Howard was in the Pittsburgh VA Hospital, he had a heart attack and credits his Cochlear Implant with not only helping him to hear again but also saving his life. “If I wouldn’t have gotten the implant, I might not have known something was wrong with my heart,” he said.
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Unscrambler-Flowers
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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.
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Congratulations to Alice Ghoah who won last month’s contest. The answers were: 1. Storm; 2. Salad; 3. Hair; 4. Coast; 5. Block; 6. Stock; 7. Paper; 8. Tube; 9. Right; 10. Fund; 11. Lip; 12. Tooth; 13. Net; 14. Thumbs; 15. Orange; 16. Letter; 17. White; 18. Monkey; 19. Level; 20. Tight; 21. Wave; 22. Tag; 23. Boxer; 24. Crossing.
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ACROSS 1 Spanish snacks 6 Doctrine 9 IV measures 12 Bakery smell 13 Cattle call 14 Frazier foe 15 Spur on 16 California observatory 18 Open with a click 20 Roll call reply 21 Oft-torn knee part, for short 23 MSN rival 24 Missile shelters 25 Maui meal 27 Chip choice 29 Vermont’s Sen. Sanders 31 Crop machine 35 Islamic decree 37 1492 vessel 38 Wan 41 Cash dispenser 43 Yule quaff 44 Dr. McGraw 45 Jacket part 47 Period after a major conflict 49 Pirate’s pal 52 Scale notes 53 – Dhabi 54 Orange variety 55 TV Tarzan Ron 56 Gloomy guy 57 Razor sharpener
DOWN 1 – chi 2 Branch 3 In vogue 4 Prayer ender 5 Zesty dip 6 Chevy model 7 Daytime drama 8 Actress Gretchen 9 Caravan beast 10 Mild cigar 11 Begets 17 Buckeye 19 Music for nine 21 Priestly garment 22 Prompt 24 That girl 26 Insincere 28 Wooden box 30 Author Fleming 32 Batter’s grip aid 33 Rock’s Brian 34 Cleaning cloth 36 Tusked mammal 38 Pie fruit 39 Sand bar 40 Tantrum 42 Office notes 45 Hollywood’s “Elephant Boy” 46 Expansive 48 Witty one 50 Id counterpart 51 “Uh-huh”
July 2016 • Butler County Senior News
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Ambulance Service • Wheelchair Van Service
Care You Can Count On
• Our wheelchair van service, Butler Assist Coach, currently operates 10 vans providing transport to and from hospitals, doctor’s appointments, nursing homes, and private events (i.e. funerals, weddings, birthdays, etc.)
Serving the Community Since 1967
• 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 10 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
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Comprehensive Retinal Services are available at Balouris Eye Center, PC. Drs. Sorr, Hoffman and Shultz 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.
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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
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