March 2017
Volume 16, Number 10
FREE Sponsored in part by Beaver County Office on Aging Find us on Facebook under our corporate name, “Pittsburgh Senior News.�
Visit Us Online at www.pittsburgh seniornews.com Enjoy 80+ free comics everyday. Plus news.
Take time to review Medicare costs for 2017 Anyone on Medicare knows that its health insurance comes with significant costsharing premiums, deductibles, co-insurance and copays, and that these costs change from one year to the next. Following is a review of Medicare costs in 2017. Medicare Part A Part A is the hospital benefit of Medicare that covers inpatient hospital care, care in a skilled nursing facility (up to 100 days), some home health care, and hospice services. Most people do
not pay a premium for Part A (because they, or their spouse, have paid Medicare taxes while working). In 2017, the Part A hospital deductible is $1,316 per spell of illness. If someone is in the hospital longer than 60 days, their cost sharing will be: $329/day for days 61-90 and $658/day for days 91-150. Beneficiaries in a skilled nursing facility that accepts Medicare pay no cost for Medicare-covered care for the first 20 days. Medicare can cover up to 100 days of skilled nursing facility care,
but the beneficiary has a $164.50 per day co-pay for days 21 through 100. Medicare Part B Part B is the medical benefit of Medicare covering outpatient care like doctor visits, outpatient hospital services, diagnostic tests, ambulance services, durable medical equipment and mental health services. Everyone on Medicare is subject to a monthly Part B premium. Most people have their Part Continued on page 4
2017 King Features Syndicate, Inc.
Publisher’s Corner
This month our cover story focuses on an important topic that every senior should know about: Medicare health insurance. Read this article to learn about changes in cost-sharing premiums, deductibles, co-insurance and copays for 2017. Happy Spring, everyone!
Lynn Webster
March 2017 • Beaver County Senior News
2
Live LIFE…At Home
– 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. CenterPlace 131 Pleasant Drive, Suite 1 Aliquippa, PA 15001
724-378-5400 Call 711 for TTY Relay Services www.lutheranseniorlife.org/LIFE
A Partnership of Lutheran SeniorLife and Heritage Valley Health System
HELPING YOU GET BETTER... FASTER.
Specializing in Orthopedics + Orthopedic post-surgery care. We accept Medicare, Medicaid, and most managed care insurance plans.
Call Today for More Information!
Visit our website at
pittsburghseniornews.com Volume 16, Number 10 Published monthly by Pittsburgh Senior News, Inc. for Beaver County Senior News P. O. Box 11126 Pittsburgh, PA 15237 (412) 760-5914 pghseniornews@icloud.com Beaver County Senior News is distributed monthly in the Beaver County area. Copy right 2017 by Beaver County Senior News. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. All advertisement in Beaver County Senior News is subject to the approval of the publisher. Publication of advertising herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement.
In Memory of John A. Hogan, Sr. Carmella M. Hogan Michael J. Hogan, Sr. Wayne Hogan
Cutting edge post-acute rehabilitation, 7 days/week. Personalized schedules from our Physical, Occupational + Speech Therapists.
Owner/Publisher: Lynn Webster Editor: Gina Mazza Art Director: Shantessa Burnfield Sales Executive: Wallace Webster Photographer: Chuck LeClaire Contributing Writers: Angela Gentile Gina Mazza Intern: Kara Boyle Proofreader: Jeff Makkos Printing Company: Knepper Press
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®. 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.
174 Virginia Avenue • Rochester
(724) 775-6400
1-800-756-9161
rochestermanorandvilla.com
www.vectorsecurity.com
Crossword Puzzle Answer (See page 18)
Healthy Foods & Wellness Expo
What’s On Your Plate? Join us to learn more about healthy eating and living!
Sat. March 11, 2017 10 am to 2 pm Community College of Beaver County Dome 1 Campus Drive, Monaca, PA 15061
Admission is FREE CCBC Dome filled with vendors on fitness, nutrition, food and safety
Live fitness & cooking demos Learn about local community resources Free health screenings Win great door prizes View a complete list of exhibitors at www.heritagevalley.org/expo Expo Hotline: 724-773-2045 Email: rcatley@hvhs.org
March 2017 • Beaver County Senior News
Free food & product samples
3
Take time to review Medicare costs for 2017 Continued from page 1
Other Part B Costs In addition to their monthly premium, those with Medicare Part B must meet an annual deductible before their coverage starts. The annual deductible for all beneficiaries in 2017 is $183. Once this deductible is met, Part B covers outpatient physical and mental health services at 80 percent.
B premium automatically deducted from their monthly Social Security check. Some people with limited income and resources qualify for Medicaid to pay their Part B premium. Part B Premium The amount someone has to pay for Part B in 2017 depends on their situation. People who were on Medicare in 2016 and who have their premium deducted from their Social Security check are either paying $104.90 or $121.80 per month. These premiums have increased slightly in 2017 because of the very small cost-of-living adjustment to Social Security benefits. However, people will see no increase in the amount of Social Security deposited into their accounts this year because that cost of living adjustment is instead being applied to their 2017 Medicare premium. For people whose Medicare starts in 2017, their monthly premium amount is $134. In addition to these new beneficiaries, the following people will pay a Part B premium of $134 per month in 2017:
March 2017 • Beaver County Senior News
4
• Individuals, such as those not collecting Social Security benefits, who pay their Part B premium directly to Medicare rather than have it automatically deducted from their Social Security check. • Those with limited income and resources who qualify for the Medicare Savings Program where Medicaid pays their Part B premium. These people will have to pay the $134 premium amount if Medicaid stops paying their premium at some point during the year. • As in previous years, beneficiaries with annual income above $85,000/single or $170,000/married pay higher Part B premiums. Using the $134 premium amount as a base, these individuals are charged an increased premium on a sliding scale based on the amount of their taxable income.
As a reminder, Medicare beneficiaries are responsible for paying Part A (if any) and Part B monthly premiums regardless of how they get their Medicare (through Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan). Individuals in Original Medicare (who use the red, white and blue card when getting care) with no additional insurance are subject to the Part A and B deductibles and coinsurance described above. Those in a Medicare Advantage plan can be charged the Part A and B costs set by their particular plan. Medicare Part D Part D is the prescription drug benefit of Medicare that covers medications beneficiaries get through a pharmacy. These are the costs for a standard Part D plan in 2017: • The plan’s monthly premium (varies from plan to plan); • An annual deductible of $400; • During the initial coverage period, a 25 percent co-pay for each covered prescription until the person’s total drug costs reach $3,700; • During the coverage gap (often referred to as the “doughnut hole”), a percentage of the costs of their drugs (40 percent of the cost of brand-name drugs and 51 percent of the cost of generics plus a small dispensing fee) until the consumer’s total out-of-pocket expenses reach $4,950; and • During the catastrophic coverage period, a co-pay of $3.30 for generics and $8.25 for brand name drugs, or a five percent co-pay, whichever is greater, for the rest of the year.
Part D Costs for Those Receiving Extra Help from Medicare People with limited income and resources may qualify for Extra Help from Medicare that helps pay their Part D costs. Some beneficiaries receive Full Extra Help while others get Partial Extra Help. Anyone who qualifies for the Full Extra Help from Medicare has the following Part D costs in 2017: • $0 premium (as long as he is enrolled in one of the nine stand-alone drug plans available in 2017 that provide standard benefits and charge a premium below the Extra Help Benchmark amount of $39.45) • Small co-pays for their prescription medications: 2 $1.20/generics and $3.70/ brand names (if income is less than 100 percent Federal Poverty Level) or
Those beneficiaries who qualify for Partial Extra Help in 2017 will pay the following costs: • A portion of their Part D plan monthly premium depending on the amount of their Extra Help; • A deductible no higher than $82; • 15 percent co-pays on all of their medications until they reach total out-of-pocket expenses of $4,950; • During the catastrophic coverage period, co-pays of $3.30/generics and $8.25 /name brands for the rest of the year Remember: a Medicare beneficiary who receives any amount of Extra Help from Medicare has no coverage gap (doughnut hole), no matter what Part D plan he or she joins.
2 $3.30/generics and $8.25/ brand names (if income above 100 percent Federal Poverty Level) or
Anyone interested in finding out if they qualify for help with their Medicare costs can contact the APPRISE program at (800) 783-7067. BCSN
• $0 if someone is on Medicare and receiving Medicaid long-term care services in a nursing home or through a Home and Community-Based Services Waiver program
This article was written by the PA Health Law Project, which provides free legal help to low-income seniors. Call PHLP at (800) 274-3258 or visit phlp.org.
Is owning a house overwhelming?
You or your loved one can live in a completely furnished beautiful home in Beaver County with loving support. Housing includes homemade meals, medication assistance and transportation to medical appointments and other activities.
Commitment to Quality Care
Beaver Meadows
Award-winning Living Assistance Now part of St. Barnabas Health System BeaverMeadows.org • 724-495-1600
March 2017 • Beaver County Senior News
Not ready for a personal care facility or nursing home?
5
Allergies + Asthma = The Double Whammy
S
pring has sprung and it may cause you to experience sneezing and wheezing! This article will help you learn the facts about some asthma and allergies: Hayfever and other allergens can cause asthma symptoms. It is important to take a long-term control asthma medication and an allergy medicine before the spring and fall allergy season begins. It is common to have asthma and allergies. Studies show that 75 percent of people with asthma have allergies. Pollen from trees, grass and ragweed can cause symptoms. A person may sneeze or have a stuffy or runny nose, but pollen can also cause asthma symptoms including chest tightness, wheezing, shortness of breath and cough. A person with asthma can also have allergies to pets, dust mites, mold and cockroaches, so they will need to be on the look out to see how they react. If they do have a reaction, then they will need to avoid those allergens.
March 2017 • Beaver County Senior News
6
As people age, they also become more sensitive to allergy triggers. A number of factors contribute to an older person’s risk for developing allergy related conditions. These include frailty, coexisting medical conditions, memory issues, and use of multiple prescribed and non-prescribed medications. How Do Allergens Affect Asthma? The body thinks the allergen is invading the body and so it tries to reject it. The body does this by releasing chemicals that cause a person to have nose and eye symptoms. Some people get the same reaction in their lungs and they get asthma symptoms.
Research has shown that when a person’s hayfever is treated, they have less hospitalizations and emergency room visits. So if a person has asthma, it is important that they have their allergies treated, too. How Are Allergies + Asthma Treated? Lifestyle • It is best if the person can avoid the allergens. • Do not smoke. Parents should avoid smoking around their children in the home and in the car. • Caregivers should be on the lookout for the traditional signs of allergies, including sneezing, a runny nose and itchy eyes. Keep Benadryl and other allergy symptom relief medications with you when away from home for those unexpected allergy attacks. • If the elderly patient has asthma, always carry a rescue inhaler when away from home. • Remember to pack sunscreen for those outdoor activities this spring. Regular medication use makes older persons more susceptible to sunburn. Protect eyes with sunglasses and wear a hat to protect the top of the head.
• A doctor may order a long-term control asthma medicine to help decrease swelling in the airways. These medicines take about a month before the person feels the full benefit, so it is best to start taking the long-term control medicine before the spring and fall allergy season begins. Sometimes a person forgets to start the medicine early. If this happens, they should start taking it as soon as they remember. • Allergies can be treated with allergy pills or prescription nasal sprays. It is best to take these medicines before the symptoms begin. • A nasal wash of salt water can help clear out pollen and mucus from the nose. This can be purchased at a drug or grocery store. • The doctor may recommend allergy shots. Tips to Help Avoid Hayfever and Asthma Symptoms Keep the windows in your house and car closed on high pollen days. Air conditioning can help decrease pollen counts and help a person breathe easier. Listen to the news. Do not exercise outdoors when the pollen or air pollution levels are high. Do not hang your clothes outside to dry. Bed linens will collect pollen. Try to stay inside on windy days as it will blow pollen in the air.
Medicines
Avoid mowing the grass. If you need to mow, wear a mask.
• Asthma related breathing problems are treated with a rescue inhaler. This will help relieve symptoms within minutes.
If you spend a lot of time outside when the pollen counts are high, take a shower to rinse the pollen from your skin and hair.
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
March 2017 • Beaver County Senior News
CALL TODAY TO LEARN MORE ABOUT YEAR-ROUND ENROLLMENT OPPORTUNITIES.
7
March 2017 • Beaver County Senior News
8
Keen-Age News . . . For Beaver County’s Active Seniors Beaver County Office on Aging
What to do when it seems like there’s nothing to do By Angela Gentile, Planning Unit Program Monitor Beaver County Office on Aging For Beaver County Senior News
M
any women think of shopping when they are looking for something to do. Shopping can be fun if you don’t overdo it. We only need so much stuff before we start to accumulate too many things and as we all know, “stuff” can get expensive. Sometimes store browsing and taking in the experience of being out and about is entertaining enough without buying things we don’t need with money we don’t have.
Attend a coloring party or have a party of your own. For a recent holiday, my Mom, sister and I got together and worked on our adult coloring books. For several hours, we got to be creative while spending time together and enjoying homemade chocolate chip scones. Consider visiting a museum. Don’t forget that we have lots of great local museums in our county. Let me recommend one of my personal favorites: the Vicary Mansion in Freedom. Do a crossword puzzle. My roommate from college has a neighbor who calls and stops over periodically to do a crossword puzzle together. Crossword puzzles can be challenging so it is helpful to work together to get the puzzle solved as well as having a lot of fun. Visit the local library. There are more to libraries these days than just books. Last year, I went to the Laughlin Memorial Library in Ambridge to hear a local author speak about his book. It was an informative and enjoyable event. Check out the public television channels. There are some fabulous travelogues and concerts. Not in the mood to watch television shows? Cable television also has music channels. There is a large variety of music, such as classical, pop, country and oldies. There are many great volunteering opportunities in our community. Think soup kitchens, nursing homes, senior centers, libraries, museums and churches.
Angela enjoys a beautiful view of the P & LE Railroad Bridge at Bridgewater Crossing on a crisp winter day. Start a house/ apartment project that you have been putting off. Whether it be organizing and sorting through boxes, drawers or closets, touching up paint to hide blemishes or spring cleaning, there is always something to do. Try a new recipe (see one great recipe printed in this month’s issue) and invite a friend or family member over for dinner. The local senior centers are always offering a wide variety of events, activities, fitness programs, social opportunities including the monthly senior day every second Wednesday of the month from 10 a.m. to noon. Anyone age 60 and older is eligible to be a member. BCSN If you have other interesting ideas, I would love to hear about them. Come find me at the next Senior Day at the Mall at the Beaver Valley Mall on Wednesday March 8 from 10 a.m. to noon and look for the Beaver County Office on Aging table.
News You Can Use • This month we observe: March 17, St. Patrick’s Day; March 20, spring begins. • The Circle of Friends Midland senior community center has moved to a new location: Knights of Columbus, 838 Midland Ave., Midland. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Come to enjoy lunch and other activities. To make a lunch reservation, call (724) 869-4224. BCSN
March 2017 • Beaver County Senior News
March 2017 • Beaver County Senior News
Put on some comfortable shoes and walk the neighborhood. If it’s too cold to be outside or the weather is inclement, make a trip to the indoor walking track at Bradys Run Park, the Beaver Valley Mall or the track at the YMCA. Some of you may even want to power walk, take a jog or ride a bike. I enjoy the sights and sounds of the community. My latest discovery was the beautiful view of the Ohio River at the Bridgewater Crossing.
9
Keen-Age News . . . For Beaver County’s Active Seniors Beaver County Office on Aging
How to choose a good nursing facility By Tesi Dye, Ombudsman Supervisor Beaver County Office on Aging For Beaver County Senior News
H
ow can you tell if a nursing home provides good care? A lot can be learned from visiting the facility and watching the interaction of staff, residents and families. Does staff speak to residents and family members with consideration, dignity and respect? Does staff call residents by their preferred name or refer to residents with a generic name such as Grandma or MaMa? Does all staff knock and ask permission to enter resident rooms or do they just burst in without even speaking to those living there? Are conversations cheerful and happy? Do all the resident rooms look alike or do they reflect the individuality of those residing there? Are there unpleasant odors? Do all residents appear clean and dressed appropriately? Are they well groomed (hair neat and styled, men shaved, and/or nails clean and trimmed)? Are call bells being responded to in a timely manner or are they being ignored?
March 2017 • Beaver County Senior News
10
When residents or family ask staff for help or information is the response polite or do staff act annoyed and respond inappropriately? Are staff polite to each other and work together as a team or can they be overheard complaining about the job, the residents and the administration? When a resident or family has complaints or concerns are they told “If you don’t like it here, why don’t you go to another facility?” or does staff listen with respect and try to resolve the problem as soon as possible? Are there private areas for family and residents to visit? Does food look appetizing?
Does it seem like residents are eating most of their meal or is it obvious that many trays are being returned with much food uneaten? Do residents seem like they are involved in meaningful activity with others or by themselves or are many staring at the wall and/or slumped over with no interaction with others? Are residents and family encouraged to attend and participate in care plan meetings or are they told it’s not necessary and really just for staff? Many of these things relate to the rights of nursing home residents and the culture of the facility. All residents are to be treated with dignity and respect. The facility is to provide a homelike atmosphere. All residents have the right to be informed of their medical conditions and to participate in treatment and care planning. All residents have the right to voice concerns or complaints without
March 2017 • Beaver County Senior News
fear of retaliation. All residents have the right to privacy. A good nursing facility puts the residents first. Policies, staff training and interaction all focus on ensuring that not only do residents receive good medical care but also the rights of residents are emphasized throughout. A good nursing home aims to ensure that ALL staff—from the administrator to maintenance is aware of resident rights and the need to always treat residents and their families with dignity and respect. BCSN The Beaver County Office on Aging Ombudsman team can provide more information about resident rights and checklists for finding a good nursing home. They can also provide training for residents, family, community groups and facility staff. Contact the Ombudsman Department at (724) 847-2262 or (888) 548-2262.
Keen-Age News . . . For Beaver County’s Active Seniors Beaver County Office on Aging
B
e sure to join us for Irish fun, folk music and green punch at the next Senior Day, from 10 a.m. to noon March 8 inside Center at the Mall. Come and enjoy coffee and doughnuts. A wide variety of vendors will provide information on senior services and programs, plus there will be blood pressure screenings. The event, sponsored by the Beaver County Office on Aging and premier sponsors Medic Rescue and Concordia Visiting Nurses, is the number one resource in Beaver County for personal, “on the spot” consultation and information for older adults all in one convenient location. BCSN
Beaver County History Tidbits * South Beaver Township was incorporated in 1800 and is located in the northern part of the county. Its name, with the word “south” in it, comes from the fact that it was located south of the North Fork of the Little Beaver River. * North Sewickley Academy was started in 1847 to prepare boys and girls for college. Its beginnings were as a parochial school started by the Baptist church. Miss Kildoo was the teacher. After the Civil War, the academy was turned into an orphanage for children of soldiers killed in the war. * Fombell was named for early settlers Lucian and Gabriel Faure de Fombelle of France. Fombell became known with the start of its post office in 1882 in the home of Joseph Phillis IV and Victorial Magdalena Fombelle. Mr. Phillis served as the first postmaster. The post office currently services parts of Marion and Franklin townships in Beaver County and Perry Township in Lawrence County. BCSN
Lend a hand by becoming an APPRISE volunteer
Bruschetta Couscous Salad
Do you enjoy learning new things? Do you have an interest in learning about Medicare? Do you want to help others in your community? The Beaver County Office on Aging (BCOA) is seeking new volunteers for the APPRISE Program. APPRISE is the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) in Pennsylvania and provides free counseling for people with Medicare. Through federal and state grants, the program provides counseling and assistance not only to Medicare beneficiaries but also to their caregivers and families. As an APPRISE counselor, you will help people with understanding Medicare benefits and services; help people make informed choices about selecting insurance, such as understanding the difference between a Medigap policy, a Medicare Advantage plan and a standalone Part D prescription drug plan; help beneficiaries apply for financial assistance programs; explain the Medicare Summary Notice; and assist with the appeal process and paperwork, just to name a few. BCOA will give you all the training and educational materials you need to counsel beneficiaries at a level at which you are comfortable. To learn more about the APPRISE Program and rewarding volunteer opportunities, call Joanne McDermitt at the Beaver County Office on Aging at (724) 847-2262. BCSN
3 1 14.5 can diced tomatoes 3 ¼ c. water 3 2 T. olive oil 3 2 T. thinly sliced fresh basil 3 2 T. minced red onion 3 1 T. red wine vinegar 3 1/8 t. salt 3 1/8 t. black pepper 3 1 c. plain couscous, uncooked 3 ¼ c. shredded Parmesan cheese Combine undrained tomatoes, water, oil, basil, onion, vinegar, salt and pepper in pan. Over mediumhigh heat, bring to a boil. Remove pan from heat and stir in couscous. Cover and let stand 5 minutes. Fluff mixture with fork. Sprinkle with cheese and serve. BCSN (Source: From Ready, Set, Eat)
Senior center menus
Call the following senior centers for menu information and reservations: Aliquippa (724) 857-9989; Baden (724) 869-4224; Center at the Mall (724) 728-1422; New Brighton (724) 846-1959; Midland (724) 869-4224. BCSN
March 2017 • Beaver County Senior News
March 2017 • Beaver County Senior News
Green is the theme for this month’s Senior Day
11
Keen-Age News . . . For Beaver County’s Active Seniors Beaver County Office on Aging
The Beaver County Office on Aging
Serving you: Your financial gift allows the Beaver County Office on Aging to offer in-home services to frail older adults in their home—because home is where they want to stay. Your donation in any amount increases our ability to help care for our older adults in need.
---------------------------------------------------------Donation Form
Name:____________________________ Address:__________________________ City/State/Zip:_____________________ Amount ___$10 ___$15 ___$25 ___$50 ______any other amount You may make a donation in honor or memory of someone Dedication ___in honor of
___in memory of
Beaver County Commissioners Sandie Egley, Chairman Daniel C. Camp III Tony Amadio Linda L. Hall, Administrator Beaver County Office on Aging
Services provided through subcontractors: • Adult Day Care • Attendant Care • Chore Service • Home Companion • Home Delivered Meals • Homemaker • Home Safe Home
• Legal Services • Personal Care • Protective Services • Respite Care • Senior Centers • Transportation
For more information, call or visit our office at 1020 Eighth Avenue, Beaver Falls, PA 15010.
list name:__________________________
Office Hours: Monday through Friday: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
May we print your dedication?
Phone: (724) 847-2262 (Local) (888) 548-2262 (Long Distance) TDD (724) 728-5700
___Yes ___No
March 2017 • Beaver County Senior News
12
• “Surprises for Shut-ins” • Information and Referral • Ombudsman Service • PDA Waiver Program • Domiciliary Care • Care Management • Benefits Counseling • Senior Day • Pre-admission Assessment • Family Caregiver Support Program • APPRISE Program • PrimeTime Health Program • Nursing Home Transition
May we print your name as a donor? ___Yes
___No
Make your donation payable to: Beaver County Office on Aging Mail to: Beaver County Office on Aging Attn: Planning Department 1020 8th Ave. Beaver Falls, PA 15010 A donation was made was by Gilda An anonymous donation made.DeFerrari .
March 2017 • Beaver County Senior News
Website: www.beavercountypa.gov/office-aging
Senior Day-Travel With Us The #1 Resource in Beaver County for personal, “on the spot” consultation and service for older adults all at one convenient location!
Proudly brought to you by ~ The Beaver County Office on Aging and Premier Sponsors: Medic Rescue ~ Concordia Visiting Nurses The next Senior Day will be held at 10 a.m. March 8 inside Center at the Mall in the Beaver Valley Mall, next to Hallmark Read Beaver County Senior News for more information. Call (724) 847-2262 for information.
Circle of Friends
Center at the Mall activities Center at the Mall (CATM), Beaver Valley Mall, Monaca, will offer the following activities:
Baden Circle of Friends, 371 Linmore Ave., Baden, will offer the following events:
2 Brain Games at 10 a.m. March 7.
H Pinochle tournament at 9 a.m. March 8 and 29. Advance sign-up is required.
2 Senior Day at the Mall at 10 a.m. March 8.
H Line dance class resumes at 10:30 a.m. March 13.
2 Birthday lunch celebration at 11:30 a.m. March 9.
H Lucky Leprechaun bingo dinner at 4 p.m. March 14. Cost is $6 and includes six cards.
2 Coping with loss at 10:30 a.m. March 14. 2 Chair volleyvall at 11 a.m. March 7, 14, 21 and 28. 2 Bunco league at 2 p.m. March 14 and 28. 2 St. Patrick’s Day treats at 10:30 a.m. March 17. 2 Spaghetti dinner benefit at 4:30 p.m. March 21.
H St. Patrick’s Day celebration March 17. Annual Ladies Tea tickets go on sale March 22. Call (724) 8694224 or visit cofbeaver.com for a complete schedule. New Brighton Circle of Friends, Holy Family Parish, will offer the following events: H Breakfast card club at 10 a.m. March 3.
2 Meadows day trip at 9 a.m. March 27.
H Evening dance from 7 to 10 p.m. March 11.
2 Fit for Life at 10:30 a.m. March 28. 2 Annual Juried Art Exhibition March 30, 31 and April 1. Visit centeratthemall.com for all programs, events and fitness center hours and class schedule. Call (724) 774-5654 to make reservations for upcoming events and programs. Follow the center on Facebook at facebook.com/CenterattheMall. BCSN
H Card party from noon to 4:30 p.m. March 13. H Lucky bingo at 12:30 p.m. March 16. H Mountaineer Casino trip at 9 a.m. March 27. Cost is $25. H Seussical the Musical at 1 p.m. March 30 at Beaver High School. Call (724) 846-1959 or visit cofbeaver.com for a complete schedule. BCSN
F
A CHARMED LIF E AWA I T S YO U !
F 71 Darlington Road Patterson Township Beaver Falls, PA 15010
724-891-1150 www.fivestarseniorliving.com ©2011 Five Star Quality Care, Inc.
ranciscan Manor is Beaver County’s premier senior living community, reminiscent of the charm and character of a bygone era. Nestled in an area known for its innovation, our community maintains a fresh approach to senior living care.
Franciscan Manor offers: • 24-hour Nursing Care • Rehabilitation Services • Programmed Activities
• Nutritious Chef-Prepared Meals • Housekeeping Services
March 2017 • Beaver County Senior News
RANCISCAN M ANOR S ENIOR L IVING
13
Entertainments and Events • LIFE Programs present the fourth annual Purse Bash at 11 a.m. March 4 at Shakespeare’s Restaurant, 1495 Mercer Rd., Ellwood City. Cost is $40 and includes lunch and chances to win beautiful authentic designer purses with opportunities to win additional purses and gift baskets. Unique gift items will be available for sale. Call (724) 321-3779 or visit lutheranseniorlife.org. • The 10th annual Steel Drum Festival will take place at 7 p.m. March 7 at Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center, One Lincoln Park, Midland. Enjoy the sounds of the Caribbean performed by steel bands from the tri-state area. Cost is $10 general admission, $5 students. Call (724) 576-4644, option 2 or visit lincolnparkarts.org/eventspage. • Maple Sugaring Program takes place at 11 a.m. March 11 at Bradys Run Park, Maple Camp (behind the Lodge), Beaver Falls. This free event is an instructional program to learn how maple trees are tapped and the process of turning sugar water into maple syrup. Call (724) 378-1701 or visit beavercountyconservationdistrict.org.
March 2017 • Beaver County Senior News
14
• A St. Patrick’s Day trail hunt will take place at 9 a.m. March 18 at Mines and Meadows, 1307 Old Route 18, Wampum. Find a Pot O’ Gold on the trails then bring it to the office for a cool prize. Cost is $25 day pass. Call (724-535-6026 or visit minesandmeadows.com.
• Come out to Wampum Community Park and Train Station, 805 Park Dr., Wampum, at 1 p.m. March 19 for a free North Country Trail St. Patrick’s Day Hike. There will be a shuttle to Snake Run Road, then hike three miles back for hot dogs, pot luck and Bigfoot stories. Don’t forget to wear your green and be on the lookout for Bigfoot footprints. Call (724) 827-2350 or visit northcountrytrail.org/wam. • A St. Patrick’s Day 5K and fun walk will take place at 9 a.m. March 19 at Big Rock Park, First Avenue, New Brighton. Enjoy a scenic run/walk along the river. Starts and ends at Big Rock Park. Call for cost, (724) 846-1870 or visit nbarc.net. • Times Home and Garden Show will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 25 at Community College of Beaver County, One Campus Dr., Monaca. There will be local exhibitors, entertainers, animal acts and prizes. Cost is $5 in advance, children under five are free. Call (724) 775-3200, ext. 133 or visit timesonline.com/ homeandgarden/show/. • The 40th annual Maple Syrup Festival will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. April 1 and 2 at Bradys Run Park Lodge, Beaver Falls. Enjoy all-you-caneat buttermilk or buckwheat pancake breakfast served with 100 percent pure
Looking for Senior Resources? Visit our website at www.pittsburghseniornews.com View current and past issues of Beaver County Senior News. Call (412) 760-5914 or visit www.pittsburghseniornews.com for more information.
maple syrup made Bradys Run Park. Festival features free entertainment on two stages, mountain men encampments, handmade crafts, pony-rides, stoneground flour and much more. Free admission and parking. Charge for breakfast is $9 for adults and $5 for children ages 12 and under. Call (724) 378-1701 or visit beavercountyconservationdistrict.org. • Richmond Little Red School House, 245 Park Rd., Brighton Township, will hold a maple syrup festival open house from noon to 4 p.m. April 2. Step back in time to this restored one-room school house built in 1844. A fine example of the rural one-room school house era. Free Admission. Regular hours are Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; and Sunday noon to 4 p.m. Call (724) 7748292 or visit brightontwp.org. • The Rochester Chamber of Commerce annual chili cook-off will take place at 5 p.m. April 19 at Bradys Run Park Lodge, Brighton Township. There will be a variety of local restaurants competing to see who will win the title of “Best Chili in Beaver County.” Two awards will be given. One is the “People’s Choice Award” which you will be the judge and one is the “Judge’s Choice Award.” Cost is $20 and includes chili, fries, chicken wings, beer and beverages. Call (724) 728-4998. BCSN
Williamsburg Chapel Mausoleum
Beaver Falls Cemetery & Memorial Park, Inc. Design Monuments 2045 Darlington Rd., Beaver Falls, PA 15010
• We provide at need and pre-need services. • With pre-need services the cost is frozen forever. • We serve all faiths. • We provide graves, mausoleum crypts, niches for ashes, urns, caskets, vaults and memorials, all at one convenient location.
Call (724) 846-5370 Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Free bus trip for WWII and Korean veterans
Beaver County AARP Tax-Aide sites AARP Tax-Aide volunteers will be at the following sites through April 15:
A free bus trip is planned for World War II and Korean War veterans to visit their Memorials in Washington, DC. May 18. This one day trip departs early and returns between 9 and 10 p.m. Departure points are Beaver, North Hills, Greentree and Monroeville. Box lunch and dinners are provided, as well as snacks and drinks. There is a registered nurse on each bus. Wheelchairs provided upon request.
* New Life Presbyterian Church, 2795 Patterson Dr., Aliquippa. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesdays, walk-ins welcome.
For more information or to make a reservation, call (724) 709-3614. All donations are gratefully accepted so the trip can be free to the veterans. Make checks payable to WWII Memorial Bus Trip and mail to Wesbanco Bank, 701 Corporation St., Beaver, PA 15009, Attn: Heather N. Seating is reserved for veterans only. BCSN
* Center Twp. Fire Hall #1, 3385 Brodhead Rd., Aliquippa. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Appointment only. Call (724) 508-3401.
* Circle of Friends, 371 Linmore Ave., Baden. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays. Appointment only. Call (724) 869-4224. * Beaver Memorial Library, 100 College Ave., Beaver. 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays and Fridays. Appointment only. Call (724) 508-3388.
* Pathway Church,. 239 Braun Rd., Beaver Falls (Chippewa). 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursdays. Appointment only. Call (724) 506-8186. BCSN This service is free and open to low- and moderate-income taxpayers. Membership in AARP is not required. Some complex tax returns may be out of scope for this service. A Spanish-speaking counselor will be available in Baden on Tuesdays and Fridays.
COME TO A SHOW AT
LINCOLN PARK
724.576.4644 opt. 2 | Midland, PA
lincolnparkarts.org
A Am me er r ii c ca an n C Ce e ll e eb br r aa t t ii o on n
Mar. 31 - Apr. 2 & Apr. 7 - 9
Apr. 28 - 30 & May 5 -7
June 16 -18 & 23 - 25
July 1
Located minutes from Downtown Beaver, Beaver Valley Mall, & I-376 West. • Affordable ticket prices starting at only $15 • Free parking • WE LOVE GROUPS! Special accommodations for groups including reserved lounges, bus/van parking, and thank you gifts for all attendees - Speak with our Group Specialist, Judy, at 724-576-4644x1496 to schedule your outing
lincolnparkarts.org
Insta
724.576.4644 opt. 2 | Midland, PA
MAR. 31-APR. 2 & APR. 7-9 Fri.-Sat. 7:30PM, Sat.-Sun. 2PM
March 2017 • Beaver County Senior News
Attending a performance together at Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center is a memorable experience everyone will talk about long after the curtain closes.
15
March 2017 • Beaver County Senior News
Living to serve residents of Beaver County through a full continuum of care.
Center at the Mall
Senior center and therapy services at Beaver Valley Mall.
VNA, Western Pennsylvania Home Care & Hospice programs
Lutheran Service Society
Meals on Wheels, Senior Centers, HUD housing.
LIFE Beaver County
Living Independence for the Elderly in partnership with Heritage Valley Health System.
SilverSmart Technology TM
Technology assistance for seniors, including home assessments, hotline for questions, catalogue of devices and technology tips.
Valley Care Adult Day Center
Adult day center services in Ambridge and Moon Township.
www.lutheranseniorlife.org
Live an Abundant Life
ÂŽ
16 FNL LSL Beaver CTY SR NEWS ad REVISE3.indd 1
5/22/15 12:46 PM
What is the common name and place?
Answer all of the questions correctly for a chance to win $30 cash. 1. Lloyd _____ of Madison County? A. Bridges; B. Persons; C. Dolly; D. Temperance
6. Rock ______ Bay? A. Hudson; B. Roll; C. Biscayne; D. Powell
2. River _____, Arizona? A. Mississippi; B. Tucson; C. Phoenix; D. Grande
7. Martin Luther ____s County, NY? A. Davis; B. Smith; C. Rivers; D. King
3. Dolley _____, Wisconsin? A. Michigan; B. Green Bay; C. Madison; D. Lake
8. Grover _________, Ohio? A. Canton; B. Muppet; C. Cleveland; D. Columbus
4. Johnny ______ City, Nevada? A. Rocket; B. Las Vegas; C. Carson; D. Come Lately
9. South _______ Fanning? A. Dakota; B. Wales; C. Carolina; D. Fork
5. Francis S. _____ Largo? A. Mara; B. Dell; C. Key; D. Locke
10. John ______, Colorado? A. Salem; B. Casper; C. Trenton; D. Denver
To enter, mail your answers to Beaver 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 Beaver County Senior News.
Name________________________________________________ Address______________________________________________ _____________________________________________________ Phone____________________________Age________________
Congratulations to Joan Pollard who won last month’s contest. The answers were: 1. 1929; 2. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences; 3. Wings; 4. Comedian Jimmy Kimmel; 5. Dolby Theatre at Hollywood and Highland Center in Los Angeles; 6. Bob Hope; 7. Gone With the Wind” (1939); 8. The Godfather Part 2 (1974); 9. Sidney Poitier; 10. Plaster.
BEAVER FALLS PLAZA
1008 Seventh Ave., Beaver Falls (724) 843-4822
• 1 Person hh...$14,600 • 2 Persons hh...$16,700 Maximum income for eligibility is: 1 Person $38,950; 2 Persons $44,500
Beaver Elder Care and
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
INTERNAL MEDICINE ASSOCIATES An Office of Heritage Valley Medical Group 1155 Merchant St., Ambridge, PA 15003 100 Hazel Lane, Sewickley, PA 15143
Phone: (412) 749-6821
Accepting New Patients Richard G. Cassoff, M.D. Stephanie L. Perry, M.D. George B. Cheponis, M.D. Hans J. Fuchs, M.D. Richard A. Schollaert, M.D. Sarah Miller, PA-C Karah Peters, CRNP
Hoffman’s Drug Store 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
March 2017 • Beaver County Senior News
Spacious One and Two Bedroom Apartments • 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
17
Crossword Puzzle answer on page 2
Robert A. Banks Attorney at Law
Wills • Estate Planning • Senior Citizen Law Powers of Attorney • Living Wills Attorney Robert Banks has provided legal counsel to over 7,200 clients since his admission to the Bar in October 1978. During his 36 years of legal counseling Attorney Banks has obtained experience in many fields:
• elder law • estate planning • estate administration • family law “My goal is to provide area residents with the best possible legal service at a fair and reasonable price.”
©King Features
March 2017 • Beaver County Senior News
18
ACROSS 1 Drenched 4 Light brown 7 Small songbirds 12 Dinner for Dobbin 13 Inseparable 14 “Stormy Weather” singer Lena 15 AOL, for one 16 Hush-hush 18 Service charge 19 Emulate Lincoln 20 Dieter’s target 22 Carte lead-in 23 Garbage barge 27 “Nasty!” 29 1935 Astaire film 31 Cognizant 34 Chess pieces 35 Head honcho 37 “For shame!” 38 Sediment 39 Actress Adams 41 Flair 45 Valentine symbol 47 Commotion 48 The highest price 52 Automaton, for short 53 Declares 54 Chemical suffix 55 Raw rock 56 Parson’s home 57 Noshed 58 Flushed
DOWN 1 Slight odor 2 Painter’s stand 3 Hyper personality 4 Dorothy’s dog 5 Parka 6 Himalayan land 7 Sledder’s cry 8 Sinbad’s bird 9 Mess up 10 SSW opposite 11 Collection 17 Sports figure? 21 Hitchcock villains 23 Said something 24 Comedian Margaret 25 Sturdy tree 26 Oz., lb., et al. 28 Biz bigwig 30 Hosp. areas 31 Pac. counterpart 32 Misery 33 Mimic 36 Highlander 37 Despot 40 Sasha’s sister 42 Hard work 43 Worship 44 Famous 45 Firetruck necessity 46 Nest setting 48 Highland hat 49 Eggs 50 Stock holder 51 ER workers
Need a speaker at no cost for your church or group? Give me a call!
650 Corporation Street, Suite 300, Buchanan Building, Beaver, PA 15009 www.rabanksesq.com
Office: (724) 775-1500 Fax: (724) 774-3560
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
Francis A. Farmer Apartments 274 Friendship Circle, Brighton Township, Beaver, PA 15009 Rent-Assisted Housing for Persons Ages 62 and Older 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
• 1 Person hh...$14,600 • 2 Persons hh...$16,700 Maximum income for eligibility is: 1 Person $38,950; 2 Persons $44,500 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
Or call (724) 775-1220 for additional information www.beavercountyhousing.org
Brighton Rehab & Wellness Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
brightonwellness.com
BASKETBALL COACH DRIBBLE FOUL
HOOP JERSEY JUMP OVERTIME
POINTS REBOUND TEAM TIMEOUT
Leetsdale Manor
Why Can’t Coffee Shops Spell Correctly?
1 bedroom apartments w/ equipped kitchens, wall-wall carpet, A/C, balconies, community room, laundry facility, limited off-street parking and Secure intercom system.
When asked for his name by the coffee shop clerk, my brother-in-law answered, “Marc, with a C.” Minutes later, he was handed his coffee with his name written on the side: Cark.
27 Spencer Street, Leetsdale, PA 15056 Rent-Assisted Housing for Persons Ages 62 and Older
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
Koppel Terrace Senior Apartments Maintenance Free, Garden Style Apartments For persons 55 years of age and older Corner of 1st Avenue and Richard Street in Koppel 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.
For additional information and application packet, call (724) 775-4535. Income restrictions apply. Annual income must not exceed: $29,220 one person; $33,360 two persons
Bullseye Don’t get upset if I ask you where something is in Target when you choose to wear a red shirt and khakis to shop. Every Time I Say That… Every time I say that I’m ready to order in a restaurant, what I really mean is that I’m not ready but the panic will help me make a decision. Achy Back An aching back sent me stumbling to the drugstore for relief. After a search I found what I was looking for: a selection of heating pads specifically for people with back pain—all on the bottom shelf. Expanding Inventory I spotted several pairs of men’s Levi’s at a garage sale. They were sizes 30, 31, and 32, but I was looking for size 33. So I asked the owner if he had a pair. He shook his head. “I’m still wearing the 33s,” he said. “Come back next year.”
March 2017 • Beaver County Senior News
246 Friendship Circle, Beaver (724) 775-7100 • Admissions: (724) 773-5209
19
There is a big difference between using a PHARMACY and having a PHARMACY. Healthy Prescription and Medication Tips: Always read labels. They may tip you off to possible drug interactions Use only one pharmacy to fill prescriptions Learn your medications by name and what they are for If you have more than one doctor, make sure each one knows what the other is prescribing Ask your primary caregiver or pharmacist to run your medication list through a drug interactions database to identify possible problems, especially if you’re on five or more drugs Never take a drug without asking your pharmacist about its side effects and interactions with other drugs Get familiar with your medications by learning about them from your physician or pharmacist
medfast.com