October 2013
Volume 13, Number 8
FREE Sponsored in part by Beaver County Office on Aging Visit our website at www.pittsburghseniornews.com
View the most recent issues of • Beaver County Senior News • Pittsburgh Senior News • Butler County Senior News • Beaver County Senior Resource Guide • Allegheny County Senior Resource Guide
Photo provided by Rebecca Maletto-Cornell
FGP award recipients Eleanor Schomburg [front row, left] was honored for her 20 years of service with the program, along with Ruth Graves and Emma Rhodes. They are joined by [back row] FGP field coordinator Melissa Spynda, director Rebecca Maletto-Cornell, Red Cross CEO Patricia Waldinger and FGP field coordinator Shelby Parisse.
Red Cross honors local volunteers who serve as Foster Grandparents
Information booths at Senior Day at the Mall are always a popular destination. Read page 8.
As the nation commemorated National Grandparent’s Day last month and honored all grandmothers in our midst, it was an appropriate time to also recognize those who lovingly give of their spare time to serve as Foster Grandparents through the Foster Grandparent Program of Southwestern Pennsylvania (FGP), sponsored locally by the American Red Cross.
Learn how to keep teens safe around medicine cabinets on page 20.
The 198 FGP volunteers from Allegheny, Beaver, Butler and Washington counties were recently feted at the program’s annual recognition luncheon held at the Hilton Garden Inn in Southpointe, Washington County. At the luncheon, Eleanor Schomburg, 89, of Beaver County was feted for her 20 years of service with the program. “I’ve gone to all the
events over the years and received my five-, 10- and 15-year awards, but making it to 20 years was really special,” Eleanor comments. “I felt very honored and we had such a nice time. I was given a bouquet of flowers, a beautiful necklace and even a proclamation from the mayor.”
Continued on page 6
Helping People Live Life Better! Owner/Publisher Lynn Webster Editor: Gina Mazza Art Director: Shantessa Hogan Sales Executive: Wallace Webster
Have you thought about downsizing from your current home but feel overwhelmed with all of the details involved in making the decision to relocate? This month’s Day at the Mall will feature the annual “Home Sweet Home” expo, with lots of practical information to help you decide if you should “stay or go.” See page 8 to learn more. Happy Halloween!
Lynn Webster Because You Care, We Care.
Pharmacy Medical Equipment Mobility Equipment & Positioning Devices Equipment Repair Service Medical Supplies Respiratory Services Home Accessibility Equipment
800-472-2440 www.blackburnsmed.com
Showroom 83 Dutilh Road Cranberry Twp, PA 16066
724-776-0600
Pharmacy / Showroom 301 Corbet Street Tarentum, PA 15084
724-224-9100
Showroom 308 East Sixth Street Erie, PA 16507
814-454-2863
FNL Beaver Senior News ad 10/22/08 9:12 AM Page 1
5
5 e of NOWLLINGOver the Ag O lts ENleROlder Adu
b Eligi
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
2
Call today for a personal tour of our facility. Rochester Villa and Rochester Manor’s affiliation assures residents and families continuity of care if the need arises for more intensive nursing services. This provides the only assisted living/nursing and rehabilitation center network in Beaver County that is certified by Medicare and most managed care programs.
Beaver County Continuum of Care
Rochester Villa & Manor Assisted Living/Nursing and Rehabilitation Center 174 Virginia Avenue • Rochester
(724) 775-6400
www.rochestermanorandvilla.com
LIVE to Love. Comprehensive, Coordinated Services at No Cost for Qualified Older Adults… A Partnership with Families Caring for their Older Loved Ones.
Photographer: Chuck LeClaire Contributing Writers: Angela Gentile Austin Ifedirah Henry Gribbin Gina Mazza Intern: Kara Boyle Printing Company: Knepper Press
Visit our website at www.pittsburghseniornews.com
Volume 13, Number 8 Published monthly by Pittsburgh Senior News, Inc. for Beaver County Senior News P. O. Box 11126 Pittsburgh, PA 15237 (412) 367-2522 pghseniornews@comcast.net Beaver County Senior News is distributed monthly in the Beaver County area. Copyright 2013 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.
CenterPlace 131 Pleasant Drive, Suite 1 Aliquippa, PA 15001
John A. Hogan, Sr.
724-378-5400
Carmella M. Hogan
www.lutheranseniorlife.org A partnership of Lutheran SeniorLife and Heritage Valley Health System
In Memory of
Michael J. Hogan, Sr. Wayne Hogan
Senator Elder Vogel Jr. hosts annual Senior Expo
S
enator Elder Vogel, Jr. invites local seniors and their families to attend his free Senior Expo from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday, October 4 at The Dome on the campus of Community College of Beaver County in Monaca. Representatives from a number of state and local agencies will be on hand to provide useful information on healthcare, government services and more. In addition, there will be lots of door prizes, giveaways, health screenings and lunch, all free of charge. Entertainment will be provided by the Western Pennsylvania SNPJ Button Box Club. Flu shots will be available for seniors at the expo, as well. If you are interested in receiving a flu shot, bring your Medicare or insurance card. For more details, contact Sen. Vogel’s Rochester District Office at (724) 724-0444 or visit www. senatoreldervogel.com. BCSN
Seniors for Safe Driving
The insurance discount is five percent of the total premium for a period of three years. Cost for the course is $15 per person. Here is the upcoming schedule: • October 4; 5 to 9 p.m. at CUP Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 530 Black Hawk Rd., Beaver Falls. • October 8; 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Beaver County YMCA, 2236 Third Ave., New Brighton. • October 14 and 15; 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Carnegie Library of Beaver Falls, 1301 Seventh Ave., Beaver Falls. • November 9; 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Circle of Friends, St. Philomena’s, 3908 6th St., Beaver Falls. • November 12; 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Beaver County YMCA, 2236 Third Ave., New Brighton. For a complete list of classes, go to www.sfsd-pa.com. Online courses are now available. To register, call (724) 283-0245 or (800) 559-4880. Space is limited so register early. BCSN
HomeCare Elite winner three years in a row Western Pennsylvania
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
If you are age 55 or older and have successfully completed a senior driving education program in the past, you only have to attend a one-day refresher course to renew your insurance discount. If you have never participated in a Senior Driver Improvement Program, you must attend a two-day seminar to earn your automobile insurance discount.
3
Help for the most vulnerable is available with special needs plans By Austin Ifedirah, V.P., Medicare and Strategic Planning, Gateway Health SM For Beaver County Senior News
Institutional Special Needs Plans, or ISNPS, are specific to Medicare beneficiaries living in nursing homes and other long-term care settings.
Choosing the best healthcare solution to meet your needs is not always simple… You must consider a multitude of factors including age, health and wellness history and overall cost to name a few.
There are many SNPs available that offer enhanced Original Medicare coverage. These plans can include supplemental benefits such as free fitness club memberships, dental benefits, reduced copays and coinsurance, bathroom safety products, as well as additional benefits for hearing and vision care.
Are you 65 or older and looking for the best Medicare plan? Are you chronically ill or disabled and worried about how you are going to pay for your medications? Do you worry that you may be running out of time? If you have asked yourself any of these questions, a Special Needs Plan (SNP) may be the answer. But, what is a SNP? Today, there are three types of Special Needs Plans (SNP) serving different segments of the population:
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
4
Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans, or DSNPs, are Medicare Advantage health plans that serve beneficiaries who qualify for Medicare Parts A & B and also qualify for additional Medical Assistance from the State (Medicaid). Those eligible for DSNPs can enroll at anytime throughout the year, not just during the Open Enrollment period that occurs in the fall of each year. Chronic Condition Special Needs Plans, or CSNPs, are Medicare Advantage health plans that serve beneficiaries with chronic or disabling conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, asthma, and others. The goal of CSNPs is to increase coordination of care while improving the quality of life for members. Beneficiaries can join CSNPs throughout the year if they did not enroll in a CSNP previously.
How do I select the right SNP Plan for me? Prepare a list of essentials that your plan of choice must have. Use the Medicare Plan Finder at www. medicare.gov to narrow down your choices based on your list of essentials. Then it is important to contact the plans that you are most interested in to be certain you meet the plan’s eligibility criteria. Pay close attention to the plan premium. Many SNPs offer enhanced supplemental benefits for no added monthly premium. Compare copays and any additional out-of-pocket costs across your selected plans. You may have to pay some or all of the Medicare Part D prescription drug plan’s copays, which will vary from plan to plan.
Be aware that insurance companies may offer more than one plan in an area, with different benefits and associated costs. SNPs: The importance of improved care coordination Too often, people with chronic diseases must navigate the healthcare system on their own. Due to systems complexity and disjointed healthcare services, individuals experience poorer heath outcomes. To help tackle this issue, some Medicare SNPs use a care coordinator to help you stay healthy and follow your doctor’s orders. A care coordinator is someone who helps make sure people get the right care and right information when they need it. For example, a Medicare CSNP for people with diabetes might use a care coordinator to help members monitor their blood sugar, follow their diet, get proper exercise, schedule preventive services such as eye and foot exams, and get the right prescriptions to prevent complications. A Medicare DSNP, for people qualifying for both Medicare and Medicaid, might use a care coordinator to help members access community resources and coordinate their different Medicare and Medicaid services. Many health plans will accommodate their members by offering transportation services, which are essential for maintaining optimal health.
Where can I find a SNP plan? Here are a few easy ways to find a Medicare SNP in your area: Look at the “Medicare & You” handbook that is mailed to you each fall. The Medicare SNPs in your area are listed in the back of the handbook. Visit www.medicare.gov/find-a-plan. Call (800) MEDICARE (800 633-4227). TTY users should call (877) 486-2048. Call the health plan of your choice directly, or visit their website to find out more about the plan’s benefits and list of coverage.
Now, there’s a better way to get the Medicare coverage
you deserve.
You want better healthcare coverage. Better benefits. Better service. That’s exactly what Medicare AssuredSM from Gateway HealthSM delivers. Through Medicare Assured, you get low—even $0 plan—premium options** and extra benefits not covered by Original Medicare such as prescription drug coverage, dental – including dentures, hearing, and vision, monthly OTC allowance, even transportation. What’s more, with Gateway Health, you don’t need a referral to see a network doctor and there are more than 11,000 network providers and more than 110 hospitals in network. It’s complete, comprehensive coverage from a company with a 20-year history of helping people find a better way to get the health coverage they need.
Gateway Health Medicare Assured GoldSM and Medicare Assured PlatinumSM are HMO plans with a Medicare contract. Medicare Assured DiamondSM and Medicare Assured RubySM are HMO plans with a Medicare contract and a contract with Pennsylvania Medicaid. Enrollment in these plans depends on contract renewal. These plans are available to anyone with Medicare and Medicaid, or Medicare and diabetes or cardiovascular disorder or chronic heart failure. The benefit information provided is a brief summary, not a complete description of benefits. For more information, contact the plan. Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply. Benefits and premiums may change on January 1 of each year. *This number will direct you to a licensed insurance agent. To be directed to a general number, please call 1-800-685-5209, TTY: 711, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., 7 days a week. ** You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium – The State pays the Part B premium for full dual members. Premiums may vary based on the level of Extra Help you receive. Please contact the plan for further details. Benefit coverage depends on plan eligibility. Y0097_109_PA Accepted
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
Find the Medicare Assured plan that’s right for you. Call 1-877-741-7756* (TTY: 711) or visit MedicareAssured.com.
5
Red Cross honors local volunteers who serve as Foster Grandparents 20-year mark, Eleanor is considering retiring from volunteering. I will be 90 in November and I’m having some trouble walking,” she says. “But it’s been a wonderful experience all of these years.”
Continued from page 1 Eleanor started volunteering with FGP in 1993 after retiring from her job as a waitress. “I was used to getting up and going out to work every day and, all of a sudden, I didn’t have that purpose anymore,” she remembers. “A friend had retired a little before me and had gotten into the program. She thought being a Foster Grandparent was wonderful and convinced me to do it. It’s really been a blessing.” Eleanor was initially assigned to a church in Monaca then a nearby school before being placed at CDI Head Start in Ambridge, where she’s been ever since. She works four days each week for a total of 20 hours. “I enjoy being with the children. I read to them and play games. They’re a lot of fun and they seem to love me, too.” Perhaps Eleanor ’s grandparenting skills come naturally to her, given
The following Beaver County residents were also honored at the September luncheon: Five years: Anne Harris, LifeSteps Dorothy Hill, Aliquippa Head Start Shirley LaNeve, Darlington, Head Start Photo provided by Melissa Spynda
Eleanor Schomburg
Mary Ribar, Tiny Tots Development Center 10 years: Marjorie Schooley, Tusca Head Start
that she has three children, six grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren of her own. Now that she’s hit the
Pinney Street Apartments 420 Pinney Street, Rochester, PA 15074
PRV Manor Apartments
15 years: Donna Storbr, Aliquippa Head Start
BEAVER FALLS PLAZA 1008 Seventh Ave., Beaver Falls (724) 843-4822
1626 Seventh Avenue, Beaver Falls, PA 15010
Rent-Assisted Housing for Persons Ages 62 and Older Or Disabled or Handicapped There is an admission priority for very low income persons whose incomes are
• 1 Person hh...$13,700 • 2 Persons hh...$15,650
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
6
Maximum income for eligibility is: 1 Person $36,500; 2 Persons $41,700 For an application or assistance call (724) 770-5000 Pinney and PRV Associates PO Box 1567, Beaver Falls, PA 15010 Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Francis A. Farmer Apartments 274 Friendship Circle Brighton Township, Beaver, PA 15009 Rent-Assisted Housing for Persons Ages 62 and Older 1 bedroom apartments w/ 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...$13,700 • 2 Persons hh...$15,650 Maximum income for eligibility is: 1 Person $36,500; 2 Persons $41,700 For an application or assistance call (724) 775-1220 or visit Housing Authority of the County of Beaver 300 State Avenue, Beaver, PA 15009 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday
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 • 1 Person hh...$13,700 • 2 Persons hh...$15,650 Maximum income for eligibility is: 1 Person $36,500; 2 Persons $41,700
Established in 1972 and funded by the Corporation for National and Community Service, FGP of Southwestern Pennsylvania provides a small non-taxable stipend to limited-income seniors ages 55 or older who volunteer with special-needs children a minimum of 15 hours each week in Head Start classrooms, schools, hospitals, shelters and after-school programs. (Special needs consist of geographic location, singleparent household, low-income district, and mental/physical disability.) FGP volunteers provide assistance with socialization, such as talking, listening, reading and nurturing; and supportive care, like assisting in learning situations or therapy, and developing self-help and life skills. Today, Foster Grandparents volunteer with children at 137 locations in Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene and Washington Counties. BCSN
St. Joseph Spirituality Center offers October programs
To inquire about the volunteering as a Foster Grandparent, contact Rebecca Maletto-Cornell at (412) 263-3165 or Rebecca.MalettoCornell@redcross.org.
Are you experiencing the loss of a beloved pet? Join Sister Mary Ann Thimons as she leads a discussion about ways of coping with pet loss on the fourth Monday of each month from 1:30 to 3 p.m. The next sessions will be held on October 28 and November 25. BCSN
St. Joseph Spirituality Center—a ministry of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Baden, located on the same campus as Villa St. Joseph—will sponsor several programs this month. To register for any of them, contact Sister Ann Francis Hanley at (724) 869-6587. A Fall Retreat for Women will begin Friday, October 18 at 7:30 p.m. and conclude on Sunday, October 20 at noon. Sisters Mary Catherine Cudnik and Melania Polensky offer this time of renewal and reflection for women. A fee of $120 includes meals, lodging and program materials. Journey From Grief to Healing, conducted by Sister Mary Ann Thimons, will be held on five Thursday afternoons (October 24 to November 21) from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Sessions consist of input, sharing and mutual support for those in grief. There is no fee for this program. A Beginning Experience Weekend will be held at Gilmary Retreat Center in Coraopolis beginning Friday, October 25 at 7 p.m. and concluding Sunday, October 27 at 4 p.m. This program is for adults grieving the loss of a spouse through death, divorce or separation, who are ready to come to terms with their loss and begin to move forward with their lives. Trained team members who are themselves widowed, separated or divorced will conduct this retreat.
Elmcroft Senior Living wants to help you make the right Senior Care decision. We can explain in detail how the move-in process works and share with you all that Elmcroft has to offer. If it turns out that Elmcroft isn’t the right fit for you, we’ll help you find a senior living community that is.
Call Melissa Chambers to schedule your visit!
724.891.3333 Senior Living | Memory Care 104 Pappan Business Drive | Beaver Falls, PA 15010 | elmcroft.com
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
The hardest decision you’ll ever make, made easier.
7
Day at the Mall features “Home Sweet Home” housing options event Knock Knock. Who’s there? Ivan. Ivan who? Ivan to see you at Senior Day at the Mall!
You can also find information on who to contact for organizing, home repairs and home security, as well as information on long-term care facilities, assistive devices for inside the home and much more information to help you decide or just start to think about future living arrangements.
Featuring our annual Housing Options event and Halloween fun! Home Sweet Home Are your children all grown and on their own? Is it quiet in the house, except for your spouse? Does the grass need cut, but you’re in a rut? Are the steps too many, you get up them barely? When the bills are too high, do you start to cry? Do they say that’s enough, get rid of your “stuff”? Would it be wise, if you started to downsize? Help is on its way, hear what they have to say! And you can share, with people who care. When you just don’t know: should I stay or should I go? A variety of vendors will be at the Senior Day at the Mall on October 9 for the annual Housing Options Event, “Home Sweet Home: Should I Stay or Should I Go?” Join us from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Sears corridor of Beaver Valley Mall. Day at the Mall welcomes older individuals and their loved ones who are looking for answers on how to find a smaller house or apartment, what to do with all your “memories and treasures” and how to organize to help you downsize.
Also at Day at the Mall, the Beaver County Office on Aging will kick off its 27th annual Surprises for Shut-ins program. Information will be available on how you can donate to this program, which provides gifts and a friendly visit at holidaytime to hundreds of isolated older adults living in their homes and apartments. Bring a new, practical gift or monetary contribution for Surprises for Shut-ins to Day at the Mall and you will be eligible for a chance to win a $10 gift card. Each participant will receive a small gift upon registration, in addition to having a chance to win a gift card, compliments of the vendors. Also available that day will be coffee, doughnuts and cookies, along with blood pressure screenings and information from various vendors. Visit the BCOA table to enter the Knock Knock joke contest! Happy Halloween! The event is sponsored by the Beaver County Office on Aging and Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania, A NiSource Company, along with Medic Rescue, Concordia Visiting Nurses and Highmark. Donations are accepted and used to maintain and support the program. To learn more, call Pat at the Beaver County Office on Aging at (724) 847-2262 (Local) or (888) 548-2262 (Long Distance), or visit www.seniordayatthemall.com. BCSN
Photos taken from last month’s Day at the Mall
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
8
Nick Finikiotis gets his blood pressure checked by Claudia Reynolds of Medic Rescue.
Gene Testa lead a patriotic themed sing along.
Cookies, coffee and doughnuts...Oh My! BCOA volunteer Judy Herboce lets attendees choose a door prize of their liking.
Photos by Chuck LeClaire for Beaver County Senior News
Beaver Eldercare RN Rachel Shank serves Mary Ellen Buchanan of Monaca.
Personalized customer service every time you call uPmc for Life.
Talk to a Health Care Concierge who is knowledgeable about Medicare. We can help you find a network provider, get answers to benefit questions, check to see if a prescription drug is covered, and schedule important preventive care appointments. The UPMC Health Plan call center earned the 2013 Team Award for Best Customer Experience Program from the International Customer Management Institute (ICMI). ICMI is a leading global provider of comprehensive resources for customer management professionals.
Toll-free: 1-866-400-5076 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week* TTY: 1-800-361-2629 www.upmchealthplan.com/medicare
UPMC for Life has a contract with Medicare to provide HMO and PPO plans. Enrollment in UPMC for Life depends on contract renewal. UPMC for Life is a product of and operated by UPMC Health Plan, Inc., UPMC Health Network, Inc., and UPMC Health Benefits, Inc. *We are available to take your call: October 1 - February 14 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week and February 15 September 30 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. Y0069_14_1063 Accepted
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
Call us to learn more about UPMC for Life and your Medicare Advantage plan options.
9
Volunteer opportunities are plenty in Beaver County If you enjoy helping others achieve their dreams, or if you get satisfaction from supporting a cause you believe in, then volunteering is for you. Following is a sampling of local organizations that use volunteers. Check with your favorite organization to see what kind of difference you can make. Adult Literacy Action, Beaver, (724) 773-7810 Alliance for Consumer Protection (ACP), (724) 770-2078 Beaver County Humane Society, Monaca, (724) 775-5801 Beaver County Office on Aging, Beaver Falls , (724) 847-2262 CASA Beaver County, (724) 728-2146 CONTACT Beaver Valley, (724) 728-9511 Children & Youth Services, Beaver Falls, (724) 891-5800 Girls Hope, Baden, (724) 869-6521 Girl Scouts, Beaver, (724) 774-3553 Habitat for Humanity, Beaver Falls, (724) 846-1630 Meals on Wheels, (412) 366-9490 Ombudsman Program, (724) 847-2262 Women’s Center of Beaver County, (724) 775-2032
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
10
* Alzheimer Association caregiver support group from 6:30 to 8 p.m. the second Monday of each month April through September at Fenchel Law Offices, 2242 A Darlington Rd., Beaver Falls. Call (724) 847-4723. Meetings are also held from 2:30 to 4 p.m. the second Monday of each month October through March at Elmcroft of Chippewa, 104 Pappan Business Dr., Beaver Falls. Call (724) 891-3333. * The Ostomy Support Group meets on the first Sunday of each month from 2 to 4 p.m. at the education center in the Medical Center, Dutch Ridge Rd., Beaver. No meetings are held in July and August. Call (724) 775-0574. * Panic and Anxiety Support Group meets at 7:30 p.m. on the first and third Monday of each month at Friendship Ridge, first floor, Brighton Twp. Call Mary at (412) 720-2317.
Foster Grandparent program, (412) 263-3165
e Fre ance ed id m Gu Infor ons i for ecis D
Beaver County support groups
* Alzheimer ’s Support Group meets on the third Monday of each month from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Villa St. Joseph, 1030 State St., Baden. Call (724) 869-6300 or visit www.stjoseph-baden.org/Villa. BCSN
Find your home away from home.
Hand in Hand Senior Placement offers free, expert guidance for assisted living and personal care options in western Pennsylvania and eastern Ohio.
For more information, call 724.436.5220 or visit www.handinhandplacement.com
Keen-Age News . . . For Beaver County’s Active Seniors Beaver County Office on Aging I also had a diffuser hair dryer that I loved. After 17 years, it quit working and in the past six years, I have bought four more hair dryers. Sometimes they run for nine months and if I am lucky, they last for three years. The one blade in my food processor is held together with a plastic component and the plastic is starting to get hairline cracks. At some point, it is going to break and the blade will not work, though the rest of the unit is operational.
By Angela Gentile, Planning Unit Program Monitor Beaver County Office on Aging For Beaver County Senior News Some things last a lifetime. To this day, I still have and use: my Dad’s shovel, my grandmother’s rake, my grandfather’s garden hoe, shown in my picture, glassware that my parents got as a wedding gift, my parents’ bedroom furniture and dining room table. Some of these items are more than 50 years old, and I am still getting a lot of use out of them. On the other hand, they just don’t make stuff like they used to. Don’t you hate it when things break down “before their time” and you cannot find something similar to replace it? My weed trimmers have bit the dust. My father gave me two of his when he bought newer models. The larger one started to overheat but I just loved the smaller, lightweight model that had small, easily changeable blades. Well, I could not find replacement blades, even though I looked far and wide in hardware stores, yard sales and flea markets.
Like I said, some items last a lifetime and others just don’t last that long!
News You Can Use
* Columbus Day is October 14. The day remembers Christopher Columbus’ arrival to the Americas on October 12, 1492. * Halloween is Thursday, October 31. Trick or treat, everyone! Pennsylvania Hall of Fame of Champions of Older Workers Committee seeks older worker friendly employers The Pennsylvania Hall of Fame of Champions of Older Workers Committee is currently seeking nominations for employers who have provided any of the following for workers age 55 and older: 2 Active recruitment 2 Creative programs for retention
* The Pennsylvania Department of Aging has launched a You tube channel to expand outreach to older adults and their caregivers. The goal is for older Pennsylvanians to learn more about the department programs. Videos cover a variety of topics, including new programs, initiatives, recorded webinars, trainings and other educational materials to help older adults maximize their health and well being. The videos are anywhere from one minute to almost an hour. Currently offered topics are: Protective Services Testimonial, Elder Abuse, Ombudsman Testimonial, Coping Strategies for Caregivers, Family Caregiver Emotional Survival, Caregiving 101, Caregiver GPS, Resources for Care in the Community, Legal Issues for Caregivers, Health and Self-care for the Caregiver. Access the videos at www. youtube.com/PADepartmentofAging.
2 Phased retirement plans 2 Flexible work arrangements 2 Retraining 2 Mentoring programs 2 Pre-retirement financial planning One winner will be selected from the nominations received. The winner will be honored during the Pennsylvania Employer Awards Luncheon, to be held in May 2014 at the Hershey Lodge and Convention Center. Nominate an employer by clicking on the nomination form link on the Pennsylvania Department of Aging website: www.aging. state.pa.us. Submit the completed form by December 6 Rocco Claroni, PA Department of Aging, 555 Walnut Street – Fifth Floor, Harrisburg, PA 17101-1919, or email it to rclaroni@pa.gov.
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
They don’t make stuff like they used to
Do you ever find a small piece of broken plastic or metal in the house and wonder what item it came from? This happened to me recently. I purchased a metal garlic press, thinking that it would be difficult to break. I just discovered that a piece of metal had broken off of it. Thank goodness, it is still working.
* October is a good month to buy shrubs and trees, flower bulbs, jeans, camping gear, appliances, patio furniture and gas grills.
11
Keen-Age News . . . For Beaver County’s Active Seniors Beaver County Office on Aging
Surprises for Shut-ins gears up for another holiday season of giving “What a surprise I had to receive your generous gifts on Christmas Eve. It did make my day. A special thank you to the maker of the hand-tied patch quilt. I use it on my table. I can appreciate the fabrics since I am a quilter.” “Mom was so very blessed with that bag of gifts. She’s talked about it at least six times. It felt so good to her.” “Thank you so much for the gift bag at Christmas. I enjoyed all the items and made use of them all. It was so nice of you to remember me.” “Thank you for the Christmas bags you had delivered to us. We both appreciate all your office does for us all year.” These are some of the thank you letters that the Beaver County Office on Aging received last year from recipients of the Surprises for Shut-ins program. Are you looking for something special to do for someone else? Does your group need a project to support during the holidays? Would you like to brighten the holiday of the isolated elderly?
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
12
It is easy to do by donating gifts for the Beaver County Office on Aging’s 27th annual Surprises for Shut-ins program. Surprises for Shut-ins provides gifts and a friendly visit during the Christmas holiday season to adults ages 60 and older who are experiencing illness and loneliness. The Office on Aging casework staff identifies the shut-ins who need some special attention during the holiday season. In 2012, 662 people received gifts. In the first 26 years, the program has provided 8,331 deliveries. Now through December 4, the Office on Aging will accept donations of new, practical gifts. It is not necessary to wrap them. If providing a wrapped gift, please put a Post-It note or a gift tag on it stating the contents. Do not
Photo provided by Linda Hall
The Beaver County Office on Aging is kicking off its 27th annual Surprises for Shut-ins. We need you to help us fill up the Surprises for Shut-ins Express in order to provide a bag of gifts and a friendly visit to isolated older adults during the holiday season. include bows, as they get crushed in the gift bags. Also, cash donations are accepted to cover the cost of gift wrap. If writing a check, make it payable to Angela Gentile; a receipt will be issued. Items can be brought to the Office on Aging, located on the first floor of the Beaver County Human Services Building, 1020 Eighth Avenue in Beaver Falls from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays except holidays, or to Center at the Mall, located in the Sears corridor next to Hallmark: Monday from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Tuesday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Office on Aging relies on the generosity of Beaver County residents to make the program work. Many groups use this project as one of their community service projects. The Office on Aging has a dedicated core of volunteers who wrap and deliver gifts.
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
Older adults really value the visit during the holiday, as some of them only have social contact with their caseworker and direct care workers. Each shut-in receives a gift bag with an average of eight gifts inside. Do you need a few gift ideas? The agency has received donations of magnets, soaps, tissue, sun catcher, socks, lotion, puzzle books, shampoo, razors, slippers, calendar, powder, perfume, knick knacks, aftershave, shaving cream, body wash, picture frame, lap robes, tea towels, note pads, pens, greeting cards, stamps, playing cards and toiletry items, new gift wrap, new large gift bags and rolls of Scotch tape. Any questions regarding the program can be directed to Angela Gentile at the Office on Aging by calling (724) 847-2262 (local) or (888) 548-2262 (long distance) or emailing agentile@bcoa.us. BCSN
Keen-Age News . . . For Beaver County’s Active Seniors Beaver County Office on Aging
Apple Crunch
Beaver Valley Community Concert Association announces The Diamonds
Calling all pool players...
T
Melt butter and stir in graham cracker crumbs, oats and brown sugar. Set aside. In an 8-inch microwave-safe dish, toss apples, sugar, flour and cinnamon. Sprinkle topping evenly over the apples. Microwave uncovered on high for 8 to 10 minutes. Let stand for 30 minutes before serving.
Center at the Mall,at Beaver Valley Mall offers: pool table, fitness classes, computer lab, coffee bar, dancing, lunch every day and much more! Call (724) 774-5654 for details.
IJS (I’m Just Saying) Are you using any of your Internet slang? We are continuing to keep you current on the abbreviations that are used when writing texts, tweets, email and other forms of electronic communication. Here are some more. ALOL
Acutally Laughing Out Loud
OOMF
One of My Friends
STH
Something
IHNI
I Have No Idea
XLNT
Excellent
UMTWTM
You Mean The World To Me
VN
Very Nice
RFI
Request For Information
To learn more, visit www.internetslang.com.
Concert season tickets can be purchased in advance for $35. At the door, tickets are $20 for adults and $5 for students. To obtain tickets, mail a check or money order to Peg Denhart, 604 Sixth Avenue, Beaver Falls, PA 15010. All concerts are held at Beaver Falls Middle School Auditorium. To learn more, visit www.bvcommunityconcert.org. BCSN
Senior center menus Call the following senior centers for menu information and reservations: Aliquippa: (724) 857-9989 Baden: (724) 869-4224: Beaver Falls: (724) 846-1959: Center at the Mall: (724) 728-1422: Midland (724) 869-4224.
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
¼ cup butter ½ cup graham cracker crumbs ½ oats 3 T. brown sugar 6 cups apples, peeled and sliced ¼ cup sugar 2 T. flour 1 t. cinnamon
he Diamonds come to Beaver Falls at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, October 21 in the second of four concerts by the Beaver Valley Community Concert Association. With a “National Anthem of Rock and Roll” in their pockets, The Diamonds are more than seasoned performers; they are classic rock ‘n roll. The original quartet rose to prominence in the 1950s and early 1960s with 16 Billboard hits, including “The Stroll” and the 20-million-selling hit “Little Darlin’.” The newest quartet members, playing saxophone and trombone joined with piano and drums, continue to expand their audience by performing in a variety of venues and touring Europe, South America and Asia.
13
Keen-Age News . . . For Beaver County’s Active Seniors Beaver County Office on Aging
The Beaver County Office on Aging 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:_____________________
• “Surprises for Shut-ins” • Information and Referral • Ombudsman Service • PDA Waiver Program • Domiciliary Care • Care Management • Benefits Counseling • Day at the Mall • Pre-admission Assessment • Family Caregiver Support Program • APPRISE Program • PrimeTime Health Program • Nursing Home Transition Beaver County Commissioners Tony Amadio, Chairman Joe Spanik Dennis Nichols Beverly K. Sullivan, Administrator Beaver County Office on Aging
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
list name:__________________________
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
14
Serving you:
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 • Telephone Reassurance • Transportation
For more information, call or visit our office at 1020 Eighth Avenue, Beaver Falls, PA 15010.
May we print your dedication?
Office Hours: Monday through Friday: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
___Yes ___No May we print your name as a donor?
Phone: (724) 847-2262 (Local) 1 (888) 548-2262 (Long Distance) TDD (724) 728-5700
___Yes
Website: www.beavercountypa.gov/office-aging
___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 The Beaver County Office on Aging appreciates the following donation: -Frank Lyons made a donation in memory of Rose M. Lyons.
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
Senior Day at the Mall 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
and Premier Sponsors: Medic Rescue ~ Concordia Visiting Nurses ~ HIGHMARK in cooperation with The Beaver Valley Mall Next event is October 9, 2013 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. www.seniordayatthemall.com
Center at the Mall Center at the Mall, Beaver Valley Mall, Monaca, will offer the following activities: 2 Pool tournament at 1 p.m. October 7. 2 Bunco at 2 p.m. October 8. 2 Spaghetti dinner from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. October 10. Cost is $8 for adults and $4 for children. Purchase tickets by October 4. 2 Jim Christiania senior day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. October 18. 2 Card party from 2 to 6 p.m. October 21. 2 Halloween pet parade and pet photos from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. October 24. 2 Halloween trick or treat from 4 to 8 p.m. October 31. Visit www.centeratthemall.com for all programs, events and fitness center hours and class schedule. Call (724)7281422 to make reservations for upcoming events and programs. BCSN
Baden Circle of Friends Circle of Friends, 371 Linmore Ave., Baden, will offer the following events: H Birthday recognition, bingo from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. October 10.
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.
1-800-756-9161 www.vectorsecurity.com
H Pumpkin festival from 5 to 8 p.m. October 22. Dinner and dancing with Gene Testa Trio. Cost is $6 per person. H Trip to Rivers Casino October 23. H Halloween dance from 5 to 8 p.m. Dinner and dancing with Freddie Kelleher. Cost is $6 per person.
Aerobics, cardio and small weight exercise class (monthly fee charged) are offered Tuesday evenings at 6:15 p.m. All ages welcome. Call (724) 869-4224 or visit www.circleoffriendsbeaver.com for a complete schedule. BCSN
New Brighton Circle of Friends Circle of Friends New Brighton, Holy Family Parish, will offer the following events:
H Birthday recognition lunch October 10. H Gateway Clipper cruise and Rivers Casino October 14. H Card party from 3 to 6 p.m. October 21. Dinner is $5. H Free health fair October 23. Lunch is $3. H Halloween party from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. October 25. Call (724) 846-1959 or visit www.circleoffriendsbeaver.com for a complete schedule. BCSN
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
H Pinochle tournament at 9:30 a.m. October 30.
15
Entertainment and Events * The Vanport community fall festival will take place from noon to 5 p.m. October 5 at the Vanport Volunteer Fire Station, Social Hall, 435 Jefferson St., Vanport. Enjoy music by The Crows Run Band starting at 1 p.m., a Twist contest at 3 p.m., food booths, pumpkin patch, free children’s pumpkin painting, games and more. Free admission. Call (724) 774-6420. * The River City Brass will perform Autumn Leaves at 7:30 p.m. October 11 at the Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center, One Lincoln Park, Mainstage Theater, Midland. Celebrate the music, life and times of one of America’s greatest musicians, Nat King Cole. Tickets are $21 and $19. Call (724) 576-4644 or visit www.lppacenter.org. * The Beaver Valley Piecemakers 19th annual autumn quilt show and competition takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. October 11 and 12 and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. October 13 at Holy
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
16
Family Parish, Social Hall, 1851 3rd Ave., New Brighton. This year’s theme is “Two Color Quilts.” Come and enjoy the beauty of nearly 100 quilts with the amazing skills of local artist/quilters. This year’s raffle consists of a beautiful quilt done in greens and whites and a computerized sewing machine. Have lunch and shop in the boutique of handmade items and the quilt shop vendors. Cost is $7; children 12 and under free. Call (724) 843-9299 or visit www.bvpiecemakers.com. * Come out to the Baden Borough Complex, 149 State St., Baden, for an Applefest and car cruise from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. October 12. The car cruise is from 2 to 6 p.m. There will also be a children’s art show, kid’s corner, petting zoo, pony rides and food. Free admission. Call (724) 869-3700. * The Bridgewater annual Pumpkinfest will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. October 12 on Bridge Street,
Bridgewater. Come enjoy a beautiful fall day with Sandy the Witch. Featuring a ventriloquist, petting zoo, children’s maze, vendors, entertainment and more. Free admission. Call (724) 495-3340. * The Center Township fall festival will take place from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. October 12 at Fred Taddeo Municipal Park, 224 Center Grange Rd., Center Township. There will be food, games, pumpkin patch, hay rides and fun for the whole family. Free admission. * The Ladies Auxiliary’s annual craft show and sale is set to take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. October 12 at the Hookstown American Legion Post 952, 1265 State Route 168, Georgetown. The event will feature a variety of crafts and food items from local talent within the tri-state area. The Ladies Auxiliary’s kitchen will be open for lunch. Free admission. Call (412) 897-0100.
Day at the Mall features “Home Sweet Home” housing options event A variety of vendors will be at the Senior Day at the Mall on October 9 for the annual Housing Options Event, “Home Sweet Home: Should I Stay or Should I Go?” from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Sears corridor of Beaver Valley Mall.
An AEG Managed Facility
NOVEMBER 30 • 1 PM TICKETS ON SALE AT THE DICK’S SPORTING GOODS BOX OFFICE, TICKETMASTER.COM OR CALL 800-745-3000
To learn more, call (724) 847-2262 (Local) or (888) 548-2262 (Long Distance), or visit www.seniordayatthemall.com
Entertainment and Events
* Hopewell Fallfest and Pancake Breakfast will take place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. October 13 at Hopewell Community Park, 2500 Laird Ave., Aliquippa. Pancakes will be served from 8 to 11 a.m. The fall fest continues until 5 p.m. There will be free hayrides, corn maze, wild animal show, petting zoo, free crafts for kids, paddleboats, pumpkin painting, face painting and crafters. Free admission. Call (724) 462-6236 or visit www.hopewelltwp.com.
* The Vicary Mansion Applebutter Fest will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. October 19 at Vicary Mansion, 1235 Third Ave., Freedom. The main focus will be antique cross stitch samplers. There will also be self-guided tours of the Vicary Mansion, as well as demonstrations of making applebutter in an outdoor copper kettle and bread making in a 19th Century oven. Donations accepted. Call (724) 775-1848. * Heart and Home fall fundraiser will take place November 3 at the Beaver Area Memorial Library, 100 College Ave., Beaver. Local artists will create original pieces to enhance your home. Theme baskets, quilts, jewelry, purses and silent auction items. Cost is $10 in advance; $12 at the door. Includes appetizers and a coffee bar. Call (724) 775-1132. * Weihnachtsmarkt, a German-style Christmas Market, will take place from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. November 9 and from
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 5,100 clients since his admission to the Bar in October 1978. During his 32 years of legal counseling Attorney Banks has obtained experience in many fields:
• elder law • estate planning • estate administration • family law
11 a.m. to 4 p.m. November 10 at the Harmony Museum, 218 Mercer St., Harmony. Enjoy traditional German food, music and folk dancing. The event will feature artisans with handmade giftware, museum tours, horse drawn wagon rides and more. Cost is $7 for adults ages 18 to 59; $5 for seniors 60 and older; and $3 for children ages six to 17. Call (724) 452-7341. * The 13th annual American Diabetes Association Expo Pittsburgh will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, November 9 at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in downtown Pittsburgh. This free event offers health screenings, cooking and exercise demonstrations, and the latest innovations in diabetes management and prevention. Parking is available at the Convention Center. To learn more, visit www.diabetes.org/expopittsburgh or call (888) DIABETES, ext. 4608. BCSN
Leetsdale Manor
27 Spencer Street, Leetsdale, PA 15056 Rent-Assisted Housing for Persons Ages 62 and Older 1 bedroom apartments w/ equipped kitchens, wall-wall carpet, A/C, balconies, community room, laundry facility, off-street parking and Secure intercom system. HUD has mandated that an admission priority be implemented for households whose incomes are 30% of the area median income or less. Income limits apply (gross annual income) • 1 Person hh...$13,700 • 2 Persons hh...$15,650 Maximum • 1 Person hh...$36,500 • 2 Persons hh...$41,700
1 (800) 238-7555 EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
Crossword Puzzle Answer (See page 23)
“My goal is to provide area residents with the best possible legal service at a fair and reasonable price.”
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
( 2 2 6 - 5 7 8 7 )
A DEBT RELIEF AGENCY HELPING PEOPLE FILE FOR RELIEF UNDER U.S BAKRUPTCY CODE
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
* A fall social at South Side Village will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. October 12 at Hookstown Fairgounds, 1198 State Route 168, Hookstown. Stroll through the village and visit the one-room school house, blacksmith shop, log cabin, doctor’s office, barn and covered bridge. Relax and enjoy country and bluegrass music. Homemade pies, baked goods and hot sandwiches available. Donations appreciated. Call (724) 899-4165 or visit www.sshva.iwarp.com.
17
Duquesne football excelled under talented coaches By Henry Peter Gribbin For Beaver County Senior News For a brief but spectacular period of time, Duquesne University enjoyed great success on the football field. Duquesne’s climb to the top all started when Elmer Layden became head coach. Layden had played college ball at Notre Dame under Knute Rockne’s tutelage and upon graduation had played professional football. He became head coach at Duquesne in 1927 and stayed through the 1933 season. He led the Dukes to a 47-16-5 record. When Layden took over, the Dukes had been playing a regional schedule with their home games being played on the Bluff, near Downtown. Layden immediately upgraded the schedule and in 1929, they tried an experiment that was watched by countless other small colleges across the country: they had portable lights installed at Forbes Field
Photo taken from www.duquesnesports.blogspot.com.
1937 Duquesne Orange Bowl. and played a game against Geneva College on a Friday night. This experiment proved a success as 27,000 fans were in attendance. The Dukes continued playing under the lights on Fridays. They were so successful they became know as the “Night Riders.”
In 1933, Duquesne enjoyed its greatest football season to date. The team finished 9-1, their only loss coming at the hands of the powerful Pitt Panthers. The Dukes were invited to play the Miami of Florida Hurricanes in the Palm Festival, the forerunner of the Orange Bowl. The Dukes beat the Hurricanes,
There’s no place like…Beaver Meadows
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
18
•A Premier Senior Care Community in Beaver County The Premier Community in Beaver County • Prices Starting at $92/day Prices Starting at $89/day (724) 495-1600 www.beavermeadows.org
A Premier Senior Care Community
5130 Tuscarawas Road Beaver, PA 15009
33-7. The score was close in the fourth quarter, but Duquesne erupted for 27 points to turn the game into a rout. Layden left Duquesne after that game and returned to coach at Notre Dame. What followed was a succession of coaches, men who had all played for Rockne at South Bend. Joe Bach followed Layden and stayed one year before moving on to coach the Pittsburgh Steelers. Bach was followed by Christy Flanagan, who in turn was replaced by John “Little Clipper” Smith. They were all fine coaches, but what Smith did with the Dukes in 1936 stunned the football world. The Dukes took on a Pitt Panther team coached by Jock Sutherland and on a rainy , miserable Saturday afternoon the Dukes beat them, 7-0. One must remember that this was the same Pitt team which would destroy Notre Dame the following week then defeat the Washington Huskies in the 1937 Rose Bowl. When Duquesne’s George Masik ran down
the sideline 72 yards for a touchdown and broke the Panther’s back, that set the stage for Duquesne to be invited to play in the Orange Bowl held on January 1, 1937. The Dukes were slated to play the Mississippi State Bulldogs. In that game the Dukes fell behind, 12-0, but with All-American Mike Basrik anchoring the line, the Dukes pulled out a 13-12 victory. Going back to that victory over Pitt, no one gave the Dukes much of a change in that game. The victory did spark a celebration among the Duquesne faithful. A 200-car caravan snaked its way around Pitt Stadium, and with a police escort made its way down Fifth Avenue to the Bluff. Prior to World War II, the Dukes experienced their greatest football triumphs. They were coached by Aldo “Buff” Donelli, an ex-Duquesne gridder who had played under Layden. From 1939 through 1942 he coached the Dukes to a 29-4-2 record.
Donelli kept the tradition alive and continued to play the home games at Forbes Field under the lights on Friday nights. His teams finished tenth in the 1939 Associated Press football poll and eight in the same poll in 1941. The 1941 squad finished 8-0-0, and many felt they were the finest team in the entire country. They led the nation in rushing defense and total defense. It was quite an achievement for the team, one that would almost match what their coach did. In 1941, Donelli not only coached the Dukes, he also coached the Pittsburgh Steelers, a job which was not a treat for any coach at that time. World War II forced Duquesne to drop football for the duration because of a manpower shortage. When the war was over the Dukes picked up football once again, but Donelli was gone and they could no longer compete against the Alabamas and the Clemsons which graced their schedule. The university dropped football and turned its attention to the hardwood floor where their basketball teams would keep the winning Duquesne tradition alive for years. 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
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
RANCISCAN M ANOR S ENIOR L IVING
19
Grandma’s medicine cabinet and teens: a deadly duo? The 33 percent spike in teen prescription drug abuse over the past five years can be attributed to a range of factors: kids seeing commercials on the benefits of medications, the belief among teens that if a doctor prescribes a drug and grandma can handle it then it must be safe, the lack of vigilance and warnings among parents over prescription drugs as opposed to street drugs, and the easy accessibility of the family medicine cabinet.
By Dr. Linda Rhodes For Beaver County Senior News
P
rescription medicines are now the most commonly abused drugs among 12 to 13-year-olds and exceeds the abuse of ecstasy, crack, cocaine, heroin and meth combined among 12 to 17 year olds. One out of four teens report having abused using a prescription drug in their lifetime and three out of four will tell you they got those drugs from home and friends. Grandparents—an age group known to take multiple prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs—can become an easy, unsuspecting supply source, especially if the medicine cabinet is stocked with pain pills like Vicodin and OxyContin, anti-anxiety drugs like Xanax, sleeping pills like Ambien, diuretics like Lasix (teens use them to lose weight) and over-the-counter drugs that contain pseudoephedrine like Sudafed and common cold medicines.
Photo taken from www.istockphoto.com
Taking any of these drugs too frequently or too much and combining them with alcohol at parties can spell disaster. Three thousand young adults died from Rx drug overdose in 2010— that’s eight per day.
So lets talk about what’s in your hands if you suspect a grandchild taking drugs from your medicine cabinet. Most grandparents and grandchildren enjoy a special bond that allows them more give and take than with mom and dad. An older generation that’s seen it all has the “props” (slang for respect) to lend advice to kids who want to see it all. If you share this type of bond, let’s say, with your granddaughter, you don’t want to lose her trust or channels of communication by outright confronting or accusing her.
Diabetic Medicare Recipients
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
20
Are you being asked to change test strip brands?
Friendship Ridge
Kmart Pharmacy dispenses ALL MAJOR BRANDS of test strips.
Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center
Keep your current brand and let us bill medicare for you!
246 Friendship Circle, Beaver (724) 775-7100 • Admissions: (724) 773-5209
* Call (800) 866-0086 or visit your local Kmart Pharmacy for details.
www.friendshipridge.org
Don Don’’t renew that CD! Earn up to
4.00% 3.50 apy
with a GBU* tax-deferred annuity. Call Matt Foglia at
(412) 780-5399
119 old Pittsburgh company. RatesRates may change at any at time. 121 year oldyear Fraternal Insurance Company. may change any time. *GBU Financial Life LifeofofPA. PA.Minimum Minimum guaranteed 3.0%. *GBU Financial guaranteed raterate of 2.0%.
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
INTERNAL MEDICINE ASSOCIATES An Office of Sewickley Valley Medical Group 1155 Merchant St., Ambridge, PA 15003
Phone: (724) 266-0707
Accepting New Patients Richard A. Schollaert, M.D. Richard G. Cassoff, M.D. Stephanie L. Perry, M.D. George B. Cheponis, M.D. Hans J. Fuchs, M.D. Sarah Miller, PA-C
Dr. Jane Greer, a family therapist who advises the Partnership at Drugfree. org urges grandparents not to be judgmental or critical in their approach but rather give teens the space to explain themselves. If you listen rather than lecture, you may learn the underlying circumstances and reasons she’s turning to prescription drugs. Dr. Susan Bartell, a psychologist on parenting who also advises the
Partnership would further counsel you to tell your granddaughter that her parents need to know: Offer to talk to her parents with her and role play how you will tell them. Explain to your grandchild that “I love you and I want you to be safe and that’s most important. If I don’t tell your mom or dad there’s a chance you could get in trouble or get hurt or die and I’d be responsible for that.” Store your drugs in drawers that aren’t accessible to others or in a locked cabinet, get rid of all expired drugs, keep an inventory of your prescriptions by counting the pills and monitor usage, and have conversations with your teens warning them of the dangers of taking prescription drugs, as well as street drugs. And when you›re having “that talk”, be aware that two other drugs teens are reaching for are the stimulants Adderall and Ritalin both prescribed for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED "Make A Difference" 60% of residents in Personal Care/Nursing Homes receive no visitors. If you have 2 hours of free time a month Beaver County's Volunteer Ombudsman program needs you.
We offer: Free Local / State Training Team Meetings; Support of Staff Ombudsman
BEAVER COUNTY OFFICE ON AGING (724) 847-2262 (Local) or (888) 548-2262 (Long Distance)
Disorder (ADHD). Kids rarely find them in their grandparent’s medicine cabinets but they sure do among their friends who have been prescribed the medication and are willing to share, swap or sell. Teens report taking it so they can concentrate for major tests, study all night, get high and/or lose weight. Be sure to check out the Grandparent Tool Box at Theparenttoolkit.org and reach out to your local pharmacist to identify pills you may have found and suspect your grandchild is taking. Ask them about any drug “take back” programs they may offer to dispose of expired drugs. BCSN Dr. Linda Rhodes is a former Secretary of Aging for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and is Director of the Hirtzel Institute on Health Education and Aging at Mercyhurst University. She can be reached at rhodescaregiving@gmail.com.
Heart 2 Heart
Home Health and Home Care Agencies 659 3rd St. Upper Suite Beaver, PA 15009
“We keep you healthy and safe at home” • Personal Care • Skilled Nursing • Physical Therapy • Companionship • Sick/Respite Care • Grocery Shopping • Cooking/Laundry • Errand Service • And Much More!
Call for a free consultation.
(724) 775-1118 Always hiring compassionate and caring RN’s, LPN’s and Caregivers.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Beaver Elder Care
"Make A Difference"
and
60% of residents in Personal Care/Nursing Homes receive no visitors.
Rehabilitation Center
If you have 2 hours of free time a month Beaver County's Volunteer Ombudsman program needs you.
We offer: Free Local / State Training Team Meetings; Support of Staff Ombudsman
BEAVER COUNTY OFFICE ON AGING (724) 847-2262 (Local) or (888) 548-2262 (Long Distance)
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
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
Instead, take an inventory of your pills before and after she visits (or anyone for that matter) to see if pills are turning up missing. If they are, then you have no choice but to approach your granddaughter. In this instance, be honest as to how you’ve been worried about her. If you’ve seen changes in her behavior such as acting withdrawn, hyper, declining grades or performance in sports, drowsiness or angry outbursts then share your observations with her as evidence sparking your concern.
21
Superstitions and Old Wives Tales
Answer the following questions correctly for a chance to win $30 cash. 1. According to the old superstitious rhyme “What will keep the doctor away”?_______________________________________ 2. According to an old wives’ tale, what should you do while passing by a cemetery?__________________________________ 3. It is unlucky to wear opals, unless you were born in this month._________________________________________________ 4. According to an old wives’ tale, what will happen if you step on a crack on a sidewalk?_____________________________ 5. What should you throw over your shoulder if you happen to spill any?___________________________________________ 6. Breaking what object is supposed to bring a person seven years of bad luck?_________________________________________ 7. According to superstition, what are people supposed to do while yawning?_______________________________________ 8. Miners know not to do this while they’re underground. What should they avoid doing?______________________________ 9. Carrying around this nut from the oak tree will bring good luck. Which nut is it?____________________________________ 10. When making a wish, what body part is crossed in order to ensure that the wish is granted?___________________________ 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 Bonnie McCann who won last month’s contest. The answers were: 1. Mercury; 2. Saturn; 3. Venus; 4. Juniper; 5. Saturn; 6. A Star; 7. Mars; 8. The Milky Way Galaxy; 9. Sputnik; 10. Yes. Secret to a long Marriage
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
22
A couple was celebrating their golden wedding anniversary. Their domestic tranquility had long been the talk of the town. A local newspaper reporter was inquiring as to the secret of their long and happy marriage. “Well, it dates back to our honeymoon,” explained the man. “We visited the Grand Canyon and took a trip down to the bottom on the canyon by pack mule. We hadn’t gone too far when my wife’s mule stumbled. My wife quietly said, ‘That’s once.’ We proceeded a little further and the mule stumbled again. Once more my wife quietly said, ‘That’s twice.’ Hadn’t gone a half-mile when the mule stumbled the third time. My wife quietly removed a revolver from her pocket and shot the mule dead. I started to yell at her for her treatment of the mule when she looked at me and quietly said ‘That’s once.” Psychology 101 In a class on abnormal psychology, the instructor was about to introduce the subject of manic depression. She posed this question to her students: “How would you diagnose a patient who walks back and forth screaming at the top of his lungs one minute, then sits down weeping uncontrollably the next?” A young man in the rear raised his hand and suggested earnestly, “A football coach?” Taken from www.bestcleanjokes.com.
Crossword Puzzle answer on page 17
Katera’s Kove
• 24-Hour Care • Individual Care Plans • On-site Physical Therapy • Respite Care Available • Personalized Home-Cooked Meal Plans • Medication Administration
W
elcome to the Katera’s Kove Family. We are dedicated to providing personal care for individuals who are no longer able to live alone. We treat every resident as a member of our family in our beautiful 79 bed community filled with all the comforts of home!
Activities ACROSS 1 Try the tea 4 Small town 8 Huff and puff 12 Weeding tool 13 Great Lake 14 Nonpayment result, for short 15 Chowed down 16 Winnow 17 It takes the cake 18 Sean Penn’s daughter in “I Am Sam” 21 Homer’s cry 22 Get bigger 23 Pitch 26 Satchel 27 Spinning stat 30 Barber’s concern 31 Bliss 32 Will be (Sp.) 33 Early bird? 34 Present 35 Duffer’s digging 36 Pronoun in a JFK quote 37 Run for exercise 38 Four-time MVP quarterback 45 One of the brass 46 Carvey or Delany 47 Not a lot 48 Colorful fish 49 Leave out 50 Suffer in the heat 51 Inquisitive 52 Relaxation 53 Thither
©King Features
DOWN 1 Roe provider 2 Tittle 3 Cheat at hide-and-seek 4 Give 5 Dickens’ Mr. Heep 6 Jazz phrase 7 Escape 8 Big Apple borough 9 Jeans maker Strauss 10 Tournament format 11 B.D. of “Law & Order: SVU” 19 Bloodhound’s clue 20 Pester 23 Commonest English word 24 Crone 25 Predetermine the outcome 26 Acknowledge applause 27 Gun the engine 28 Paid player 29 Welcome sight? 31 Anonymous fellow 32 Autograph 34 Sgt., for ex. 35 Give 36 Pruritic 37 Rock legend Joplin 38 Lowly worker 39 World’s fair 40 Favorable votes 41 One of the Three Bears 42 Dubious 43 Pianist Peter 44 English actress Nell
• Crafts / Bingo / Card Games • Family Picnics & Special Dinners • Resident Council Meetings • Resident Education • Day Trips & More!
Amenities
• State-of-the-Art Movie Theater • Spacious Bedrooms with wall-to-wall carpeting • Community Rooms with Widescreen TVs • Enclosed Courtyard • Beauty Salon, Chapel & More
Secured Dementia Community With our recent expansion, Katera’s Kove now has the largest secured dementia unit in Beaver County for assisted living residents. We specialize in continuous staff training on dementia care and are a member of the Alzheimer’s Association. Our beautiful new addition with 29 secure beds will give your loved one a sense of calmness and the best quality of life possible while in our care.
. . . all in a cozy home-like atmosphere!
Katera’s Kove is family owned and operated is family owned operated by sisters,of byKatera’s Lynn Kove Katekovich, RN. and Many employees Lynn Katekovich, andLynn’s Betty Butera. Lynnwhich and Katera’s Kove areR.N. from family, promotes a special bond between Betty encourage family involvement for all their staff resia nd e s idreside e nt sat. Katera’s T h e y Kove. inc l Many u d e employees h e r c h iof ldentsrwho dren, brother, daughter-in-law and sisKatera’s Kove are from Lynn and Betty’s families ter-in-law. Her brother Jim Maccaglia, is which promotes a special bond between staff and resiAssistant Administrator and is personally dents. Because Kove is family and op-to involved with Katera’s each resident from owned admission erated, theBecause residentsKatera’s are treatedKove like Lynn and Betty’s discharge. is family owned andfamily. operated, are treated like at family. Lynnthe andresidents Betty’s parents also reside the Lynn encourages family under involvement for allcare. who Katera’s Kove community their daughters’ reside at Katera’s Kove.
If you would like more information or to arrange a tour, please call us. 599 Norwood Drive Big Beaver Boro, Wampum, PA
724-891-6055
Katera’s Kove Assisted Living and Dementia Care Community Lighthouse Motto As Sailors have depended on the lighthouse for safety and guidance, so can you depend on Katera’s Kove for the safety and guidance of your loved ones in need. Here at Katera’s Kove, our staff is considered the beacon of light that shines love, compassion, and safety to all who reside here. So, from your safe harbor to ours, you can rest assured and know that your loved one will be treated with the utmost respect, love and dignity for as long as they reside here at our Kove.
October 2013 • Beaver County Senior News
Professional Care
23