Butler County Senior News
October 2016
Volume 11, Number 3
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Chuck LeClaire/Butler County Senior News
The cast: Father Al Fredo (Rich Kundrod), director Caol Jean Keefer, Claire Voyant (Nancy Cornelius), Mama Rosa (Shirley Moore), Angel Roni (Kim Walazak), Bo Jalais (Tom Rudnicki), Marco Roni (Ron West), Rocco Scarfazzi (Larry DeCicco) and Tara Misu (Carol Fornadel).
Cranberry Senior Center hosts popular Mystery Dinner Theatre It was a provocative combination: “Pasta, passion and pistols.” Such was the theme of last month’s Mystery Dinner Theater hosted by the Cranberry Senior Center in Cranberry Township. The fictional setting for the “mystery” was the renowned New York City eatery LaSperenza, owned by the main character, restauranteur Guiseppi “Pepi” Roni. Pepi is found
murdered in the kitchen of his restaurant, and those who took part in the mystery dinner theatre had to guess which character in the play was the “murderer.” As “friends and family” gathered at the Cranberry Senior Center, they paid their respects to poor Pepi and ate a feast of Italian food in his honor. “A great time was had by all seniors who took part in the dinner
theatre. We enjoyed unraveling the mystery and dining on Italian cuisine,” says center manager Terri Walker. The Cranberry Senior Center has a number of other upcoming events, including an Amish Country trip on October 18, a trip to Wheeling Island Casino on November 8, and a Snowball Dance on December 7. Continued on page 12
2016 King Features Syndicate, Inc.
Publisher’s Corner Owner/Publisher: Lynn Webster Editor: Gina Mazza Art Director: Burnfield Consulting Sales Executive: Wallace Webster Photographer: Chuck LeClaire
Did you know that more than $60 billion is lost through Medicare fraud? The result is higher healthcare costs and taxes, and decreased quality of care. Read our feature on page 7 to learn how to identify and take steps to prevent Medicare fraud. Happy Halloween, everyone!
Lynn Webster Visit our website at www.pittsburghseniornews.com
October 2016 • Butler County Senior News
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Pittsburgh, PA 15237 (412) 367-2522 Visit our website at www.pittsburghseniornews.com or email us at pghseniornews@icloud.com Butler County Senior News is distributed monthly in the Butler County area. Copy right 2016 by Butler County Senior News. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. All advertisement in Butler County Senior News is subject to the approval of the publisher. Publication of advertising herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement.
In Memory of John A. Hogan, Sr. Carmella M. Hogan Michael J. Hogan, Sr. Wayne Hogan
• Freedom Farms’ fall festival takes place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through October at 434 Overbrook Rd., Valencia. Admission is $10 per person, children ages 3 and under are free. Enjoy hayrides, a hay maze, pony rides, face painting, petting zoo, live music, demonstrations and samplings, contests and much more. Call (724) 307-5464 for more information.
Estate Planning Essentials When a senior loved one ends up in a nursing home for rehabilitation, the entire family is justifiably concerned about who will pay for that care, because cost of care can easily be $250 per day, and with rehabilitation services, much more.
• Shop for a variety of locally grown produce, crafts, home products, baked goods, gifts and prepared foods Saturdays through October from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Farmers Market, 205 South Chestnut St., Butler. Each week, the market also showcases local musicians who provide market music. Visit butlerdowntown.org. • A fall flea-tique will take place from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. October 8 on Main and Mercer Streets, Harmony. There will be local artisans, vintage items, antiques as well as rides for kids. Local businesses will be open during their normal business hours. • Come out to the Saxonburg Volunteer Fire Company Carnival Grounds, 290 Home Ave., Saxonburg, for a family fun fall fest from 4 to 9 p.m. October 8. Enjoy live music throughout the event by local groups with a special amateur hour so community members can share their musical talents. There will be many local vendors including artists, specialty products, fall decorations, food, beverages and community organizations. Call (724) 352-4810 for details. • Enjoy a Pumpkin Pancake Brunch from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. October 16 at Harmony Museum’s Stewart Hall, 218 Mercer St., Harmony. Celebrate the season with a breakfast buffet of pumpkin and buttermilk pancakes, sausage, scrambled eggs, fruit and beverages. Cost is $10 adults; $7 children ages 4 to 10. Call (724) 452-7341 or visit harmonymuseum.org. • Enjoy a day in the hills of Butler County with over 20 vendors and local craftspeople from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. October 29 at The Barn at Soergel Hollow, 1078 Prospect Rd., Evans City, for the fall craft and vendor show and Amish doughnuts. Lunch will be available for purchase. Call (724) 789-9567 or visit soergelhollow.com. • Succop Theater, Butler County Community College, 107 College Dr., Butler, presents “Grand- ‘Ole Radio” at 11 a.m. October 30. Enjoy an afternoon of acoustic music from Rob and Tom as they perform songs from country greats like George Jones and Willie Nelson to the sounds of Neil Young and the Flying Burrito Brothers. Call (724) 284-8505 or visit bc3.edu/campus/butler/succop-theater/index.html. BCSN
Timothy Sechler Partner at Heritage Elder Law
The first thing to know, is that if the patient has had a three day hospital stay as an admitted patient prior to entering the nursing home, Medicare will pay for the stay and the rehabilitation, subject to limits. Here is how it works.
The first 20 days are paid 100%. The next 80 days are paid partially, but there is an expensive co-pay per day. For many people, their supplemental insurance covers that copay. What happens if you successfully rehab and go home, and end up back in the hospital a couple of months later? The 100 day clock will reset and you will get another 100 days if there has been a 60 day gap between leaving the nursing home and the subsequent hospital admission. This is not unlimited, as there is a lifetime limit, but that is rarely a limit that anyone reaches. Alternatively, what happens if you are unable to return home by the end of the 100 days? At this point, Medicare quits paying and the patient must pay privately for care. With the average cost of care exceeding $8,900 per month in Pennsylvania, many families have trouble making ends meet. Most families in this situation should consult with an elder law attorney to understand how Medicaid benefits can be accessed to pay for care. The Medicaid rules are complex and require considerable planning. To find out more about this topic and other legal issues affecting seniors, attend a FREE EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOP at the Heritage Elder Law & Estate Planning, LLO, Mars Office on October 6 at 6 p.m. or at the ButlerM Office at 6 a y 1October 8 a t 6 12 p .m. p.m. or October 19 at 2 p.m. ToMRSVP or to a y 5 at find out 6 pabout . m. other upcoming workshops, call (724) 841-0024 or visit HeritageElderLaw.com. BE-1300922
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October 2016 • Butler County Senior News
Entertainments and Events
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Slow and STEADI: Preventing Falls in Older Adults
A
ccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in three older adults age 65 or older fall each year. Among older adults, falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries for Pennsylvanians, according to the state’s Department of Aging and Health. The U.S. economic impact from this is estimated at $30 billion per year as those severely injured usually end up in nursing homes or assisted living. There are many factors that contribute to falls in older adults. As we age, our reflexes slow down. The effects of aging can lead to arthritis and osteoporosis. The medications people take to manage these chronic conditions may come with side effects such as insomnia or dizziness. Moreover, common dangers around the house include furniture. Coffee tables rank among the top items that contribute to falls, and clutter around the house or poor lighting also increases the chance for falls. While there are many causes of such accidents, there are practical things people can do to modify the risks.
October 2016 • Butler County Senior News
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Communicating with your doctor is the single most important thing to do during yearly exams. Your doctor should ask if you’ve had a fall in
the last 12 months. If he does not ask, then you should tell him. Your doctor should also perform a fall risk assessment and discuss health concerns that may contribute to potential falls. When you meet with your doctor, have your vision checked to see if you need a new prescription for glasses. Have your doctor review your list of medications and make adjustments if there are drugs that make you dizzy or lightheaded. Exercise is one of the best ways to prevent fall-related injuries. For example, resistance training can help improve muscle strength and coordination, thereby significantly reducing the risk of injury. A good fall prevention exercise program will also include exercises for posture and flexibility. For those with difficulty standing for prolonged periods, many of these exercises can be adapted for the chair. If your house or apartment presents a danger due to the way it’s furnished, rearrange the household items to make a clearer path when walking between
rooms. There are many bathroom and home safety kits that can also help with stability. Some safety items may even be covered under some insurance plans. If throw rugs tend to bunch up or slip when you walk, secure them with double sided tape. Make sure handrails near steps are secure. Consider purchasing a good pair of walking shoes with proper treading. For those with balance issues, a cane can help stabilize and prevent falls. There are many different types of canes with varying grips and tips to choose from so ask your doctor for suggestions. What to Do if You Fall Stay calm and remain still for a few moments to stabilize yourself. If you think you can get up safely, roll onto your side and get up slowly using your hands and knees or to a sitting position. If you are hurt or can’t get up on your own, ask someone for help or call 9-1-1. For those who live by themselves, it may be wise to invest in an emergency at home response system, so if you need emergency assistance at any time, help is as close as a push of a button. Today’s emergency response devices are subtle and worn like a necklace or bracelet.
STEADI as a Rock: A Toolkit for Wellness STEADI means Stopping Elderly Accidents Deaths and Injuries. This is a checklist for physicians to assess a patient’s risk for falling. The toolkit includes information about falls, case studies, gait and balance assessments, and a fall risk checklist. Educational handouts are also available for patients. The doctor will assess you by taking a Timed Up and Go (TUG) test for people age 65 and older. A TUG test involves getting up from sitting in a chair, walking to a line on the floor at a normal pace, turning and walking back to your chair, and sitting down again. If it takes an older adult more than 12 seconds to complete this task, they are considered at high risk for falling. Your doctor should observe your posture, stability, gait, stride length and sway. A free copy of the STEADI toolkit, along with patient education materials is available at the CDC’s website at cdc.gov/steadi/.
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October 2016 • Butler County Senior News
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Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Senior Express
How to identify various types of Medicare fraud and what to do about it
T
he numbers are staggering. Every year in the United States, more than $60 billion is lost through fraud and abuse of the Medicare system, according to the Pennsylvania Senior Medicare Patrol (PA-SMP). So how does this affect older adults? Most significantly, the money lost to fraud results in fewer dollars available for desperately needed Medicare services, higher healthcare costs and taxes, and decreased quality of care. How to identify Medicare-related fraud You can help stop abuse to the Medicare system by taking the following steps. First and foremost, anytime you receive healthcare services (including hospital stays), always record the dates of each service and save all receipts and statements you get from your providers. Check this information against the claims that Medicare processes to make sure you or Medicare weren’t billed for services or items you didn’t get. A good idea is to use a composition notebook with a stitched binding so the pages don’t come loose.
How to report fraud
Specifically, look at the Medicare Summary Notice if you have Original Medicare, or similar statements that list the services you got or prescriptions you filled. If you notice, for example, that your statement shows a charge or a service or piece of equipment that you didn’t get, or it shows that Medicare has been charged for the same service twice, this is a red flag of possible abuse. Remember that most providers are honest and can make mistakes. When the charge or equipment or service is a repeated pattern, this may signal abuse. If you see a discrepancy on your Medicare claim, report the error as soon as possible by calling CARIE at (800) 356-3606.
If you’ve contacted your provider and suspect that Medicare is being charged for a service or supply that you didn’t receive, or you don’t know the provider on the claim, call CARIE at (800)-356-3606 to report it. You can also call Medicare at (800) MEDICARE to report it, or the Office of the Inspector General at (800) 447‑8477 or TTY (800) 377‑4950. Have the following information at your fingertips when you call: • The provider’s name and any identifying number you may have • The service or item you’re questioning • The date the service or item was supposedly given or delivered • The payment amount approved and paid by Medicare • The date on your Medical Summary Notice • Your name and Medicare number • The reason you think Medicare shouldn’t have paid • Any other information you have showing why Medicare shouldn’t have paid for a service or item Continued on page 8 October 2016 • Butler County Senior News
October 2016 • Butler County Senior News
Another way to identify Medicare fraud is if you receive a phone call from someone who says they are “from Medicare” and asks for your personal information, such as your Medicare number, Social Security number or bank account number. Bear in mind that Medicare will never, under any circumstance, call or come to your door and ask for your personal information.
If you find items listed in your claims that you don’t have a record of, it’s possible that you or Medicare may have been billed for services or items you didn’t get. If you think a charge is incorrect and you know the provider, first call their office and inquire about it so that you can better understand the services or supplies you got. The provider may realize that a billing error was made and can help correct it for you.
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Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Senior Express
How to identify various types of Medicare fraud and what to do about it Continued from page 7
Social Security Number (on your Social Security card) like it’s a credit card. NOTE: Your Medicare number is your Social Security number plus a letter or two. • Ask questions. You have a right to know everything about your medical care, including the costs billed to Medicare. • Educate yourself about Medicare. Know your rights and know what a provider can and can’t bill to Medicare. • Be wary of providers who tell you that the item or service isn’t usually covered, but they “know how to bill Medicare” so Medicare will pay.
So what is CARIE? In Butler County, suspected abuse or complaints about Medicare can be referred directly to the Center for Advocacy for the Rights and Interests of the Elderly. As part of its mission to improve the quality of care that older people receive, CARIE began the Pennsylvania Senior Medicare Patrol program (PA-SMP) in 1997. Originally developed by the Administration on Aging (AoA), a division of the US Department of Health and Human Services, there is now an SMP program in every state. SMPs provide education and advocacy to seniors and caregivers to prevent Medicare fraud. To contact an SMP program in Butler County, call CARIE at (800)-356-3606 or email Lynn Krantz @ krantz@carie.org. If you are an organization, contact Lynn at CARIE to schedule a talk or senior event.
October 2016 • Butler County Senior News
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PA-SMP also offers a free scam alert called ScamWire to seniors, caregivers and anyone interested in information about emerging scams affecting seniors. Through its partnership with home-delivered meals programs, ScamWires reach more than 30,000 homebound seniors across Pennsylvania. To contact ScamWire, visit Carie.org or call (800) 365-3606 to subscribe to their newsletter. Tips for preventing Medicare fraud As a rule of thumb, learn how to protect your personal information and be on the alert for any suspicious activity by following these tips. • Don’t give your Medicare card, Medicare number, Social Security card or Social Security Number to anyone except your doctor or other authorized Medicare provider. Never give your Medicare number to get a free offer or gift. Protect your Medicare number (on your Medicare card) and your October 2016 • Butler County Senior News
• Make sure you understand how a health insurance plan works before you join. • Always check your pills before you leave the pharmacy to be sure you got the correct medication, including whether it’s a brand or generic and the full amount. If you don’t get your full prescription, report the problem to the pharmacist. • Don’t allow anyone, except your doctor or other Medicare providers, to review your medical records or recommend services, and don’t let anyone persuade you to see a doctor for care or services you don’t need. • Don’t accept medical supplies from a door-to-door salesman. If someone comes to your door claiming to be from Medicare or Medicaid, remember that Medicare and Medicaid don’t send representatives to your home to sell products or services. Lorna Gavin, the state’s senior Medicare patrol, gives presentations on the topic of Medicare fraud at local senior centers and senior events. She will be speaking at 1 p.m. on October 20 at the Plus Sixty Senior Center, located at 213 East Main Street in Evans City, and at 12:30 p.m. on November 3 at the Slippery Rock Township Municipal Building at 155 Branchton Road in Slippery Rock. “This topic can be difficult to understand but I make it entertaining and engaging,” Lorna says. “Seniors are my passion. They are the most interesting folks.” BCSN Portions of this article were excerpted from Medicare.gov. To learn more about Medicare fraud prevention through CARIE, call (800)-356-3606 or visit carie.org/programs/senior-Medicare-patrol.
Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Senior Express
Senior Center events
_ Chicora Senior Center, lower level of Moose Hall, 117 West Slippery Rock St., offers the following events: blood pressure screening at 9:30 a.m. and leadership meeting at 10 a.m. October 4; flu shot clinic from 11 a.m. to noon October 11; bingo at 10:30 a.m. and birthday celebration October 13; and bingo at 10:30 a.m. and Halloween party October 27. The center is open from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. Call (724) 445-2551. _ Cranberry Senior Center, Municipal Building, Rochester Rd., offers the following events: hoagie sale October 3. Cost is $4; flu shot clinic from 10 a.m. to noon October 4; LifeLine at 11 a.m. October 6; hoagie money due October 12; birthday celebration October 13; leave for Amish trip at 6:45 a.m. October 18. Call manager for details; 23rd year anniversary celebration October 20; game night from 4 to 7 p.m. October 25. Cost is $5; wellness Wednesday with French toast at 8:30 a.m. October 26; and leadership meeting at 10:30 a.m. and Halloween party October 27. The center is open from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (724) 772-6086. _ Evans City Senior Center, 426 East Main St., offers the following events: flu shot clinic from 11 a.m. to noon October 6; leadership meeting at 1 p.m. and birthday celebration October 13; white elephant bingo from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. October 17; rise and shine breakfast and drum circle October 19; Medicare fraud prevention at 1 p.m. October 20; wellness Wednesday with French toast at 10 a.m. October 26; and Halloween party from noon to 3 p.m. October 31. The center is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. Call (724) 538-9414.
_ Mars Senior Center, Penn Mar Plaza, Gilkey Dr., offers the following activities: flu shot clinic from 10 a.m. to noon October 3; cookies and coloring from 1 to 3 p.m. October 6; fudge Sundaes at 12:30 p.m. October 10. Cost is $1.25; birthday celebration at noon October 13; hoagie sale starts October 17. Cost is $5; Bulter Votech will be doing nails at 9:30 a.m. October 19; wellness Wednesday with French toast at 9 a.m. October 26; hoagie pick-up at 11 a.m. and leadership meeting at 1 p.m. October 27; and Halloween party at noon October 31. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (724) 625-4466. _ Mount Chestnut Senior Center, Presbyterian Church, 727 Old Route 422, will offer the following events: Bible study at 10:15 a.m. and leadership meeting at 12:45 p.m. October 3; center closed for manager training October 6; Wii bowling October 10; birthday celebration October 13; Bible study at 10:15 a.m. October 17; Susann Hutchison “Marie Tepe Portrayal” at 12:30 p.m. October 20; book club at 10:15 a.m. October 24; and wellness Wednesday with French toast at 10 a.m. and Halloween party October 31. The center is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays. Call (724) 282-6006. _ Slippery Rock Senior Center, Township Building, 155 Branchton Rd., will offer the following events: birthday celebration at 12:30 p.m. October 13; leadership meeting at 12:30 p.m .October 20; wellness Wednesday with French toast at 9 a.m. October 26; and Halloween party at 10:30 a.m. October 27. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. Call (724) 794-6440. _ Southeast Senior Center, Winfield Township Firehall, Brose Rd., offers the following upcoming events: nickel bingo at 10:30 a.m. October 4, 18 and 20; center closed for manager training October 6; Pokeno at 10:30 a.m. October 11 and 13; learn how to make flower arrangements at 9:30 a.m. and flu shot clinic from 11 a.m. to noon October 13; birhtday celebration October 13; chair yoga at 10 a.m. October 18; leadership meeting at 10 a.m. October 20; wellness Wednesday with French toast at 9 a.m. and chair volleyball at 10 a.m. October 25; and bingo at 10:30 a.m. October 27. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Call (724) 352-2036. _ West Sunbury Senior Center, West Sunbury Presbyterian Church, hours are from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday and Friday. Lunches are provided. Call (724) 637-2959. BCSN October 2016 • Butler County Senior News
October 2016 • Butler County Senior News
_ Butler Senior Center, 10 Austin Ave., (located in Tanglewood Senior Center), Lyndora, offers the following events: 500 card party at noon October 5. Cost is $2.50; flu shot clinic from 10 a.m. to noon October 7; Wheel of Fortune at 11:30 a.m. October 12; birthday celebration and leadership meeting at 11:30 a.m. October 13; evening card party from 5:30 to 9 p.m. October 18; selling your home at 11:30 a.m. October 21; wellness Wednesday with French toast at 9 a.m. and Pokeno tournament from noon to 3 p.m. October 26; and Halloween party at 7 p.m. October 31. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (724) 285-5392.
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Butler County Area Agency on Aging
October Menu for senior centers
Senior Express The Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Serving you:
Monday, October 3: Grilled chicken sandwich, potato salad, fruit salad. Tuesday, October 4: Spaghetti and meatballs, tossed salad, carrots and cabbage, warm apple slices. Wednesday, October 5: Baked pollock filet, baked potato, sweet peas, banana pudding. Thursday, October 6: Seasoned chicken breast, rice pilaf, vegetable medley, fruit. Friday, October 7: Hot dog with sauerkraut, whipped potatoes, sweet peas, fruit. Monday, October 10: Meatball sub, coleslaw, mixed bean medley, fruit. Tuesday, October 11: Chef salad, tossed salad, carrots and cabbage, peaches. Wednesday, October 12: Roast chicken breast, red skin potatoes, baby carrots, pineapple and oranges. Thursday, October 13, Birthday menu: Stuffed pork chop, whipped potatoes, vegetable medley, coleslaw, birthday cupcake. Friday, October 14: Potato crusted fish, macaroni and cheese, stewed tomatoes, applesauce. Monday, October 17: Baked salisbury steak, garlic and butter potatoes, broccoli, lemon fluff dessert. Tuesday, October 18: Turkey sandwich, potato soup, fruit. Wednesday, October 19: Tuna salad sandwich, tomato soup, cottage cheese, pineapple tidbits. Thursday, October 20: Stuffed cabbage roll, whipped potatoes, yellow beans, fruit crisp.
October 2016 • Butler County Senior News
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Friday, October 21: Italian hoagie, redskin potatoes, garden salad, carrots, fruit. Monday, October 24: Chicken, peas and carrots, vegetable medley, applesauce, sugar cookie. Tuesday, October 25: Turkey salad sandwich, pasta salad, three bean salad, fruit. Wednesday, October 26: Baked Swiss steak, whipped potatoes, green beans, vanilla pudding. Thursday, October 27: Spooky barbecue shredded pork, RIP redskin potatoes, cauldron coleslaw, Halloween dessert. Friday, October 28: Meat lasagna, tossed salad, carrots and cabbage, applesauce. Monday, October 31, Happy Halloween: Sweet sausage sandwich, buttered potatoes, carrots, vanilla ice cream. BCSN October 2016 • Butler County Senior News
About the Area Agency on Aging The Butler County Area Agency on Aging (AAoA) is a community service agency for older adults and has operated in Butler County since 1984. The Area Agency on Aging administers programs and manages services for Butler County residents who are 60 years of age or older. Agency programs and services are designed to serve approximately 38,000 older consumers who call Butler County home. Butler County Commissioners Leslie Osche, Republican Kimberly Geyer, Republican Kevin Boozel, Democrat Area Agency on Aging Administrator: Beth A. Herold, RN, BSN, MBA How may we help you? • Community Services for Older Adults and their families • Home and Community Based Services • PDA Waiver Services Access to Services • Information and Referral • Assessment • Care Management
For more information, call or visit our office at Sunnyview Complex 111 Sunnyview Circle, Suite 101 Butler, PA 16001 Office Hours: Monday through Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Phone: (724) 282-3008 (888) 367-2434 Website: co.butler.pa.us/butler Email: aaainfo@co.butler.pa.us
Vaccines and Stem Cells: Secret Weapons in the Fight Against Lung Disease By Cameron Kennerly For Butler County Senior News Once a year around the end of October, the U.S. will enter flu season, sparking millions of parents and grandparents to pull their children kicking and screaming all the way to the doctor’s office. Although any needle is an unwelcomed one, we tolerate these injections because at our hearts, we just want to Like the flu vaccine, stem be healthy. However, what is often cell therapy has begun to unknown—or worse neglected— revolutionize the treatment is that seniors have an inherently of respiratory illness. weaker immune system, leading to increased rates of medical complications and death from viruses like the flu—particularly those suffering from lung disease such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema.
REVITALIZE
YOUR LUNGS
Although many of these deaths are preventable, fortunately, the answer is simple: get vaccinated. The relationship between vaccines and health cannot be understated, particularly for seniors suffering from respiratory illness, who are inherently at a higher risk of illness. For those who live with a debilitating lung disease, exacerbations or flare-ups can be both physically and mentally exhausting. Exacerbations further lung degeneration, and when coupled with fatigue and a consistent shortness of breath, chronic lung disease is an extraordinarily difficult disease to live with. Throw in the flu and these factors produce a potentially lethal combination.
Emerging from a time when epidemics wiped out a significant percentage of the population every century, science has taken humanity into a golden era of medicine and personal healthcare. Although neither the flu nor chronic lung disease possess a known cure, through the combination of vaccines and stem cell therapy, it’s possible to dramatically affect the lives—and lifespan—of one of our nation’s most susceptible demographic. BCSN If you or a loved one suffer from a chronic lung disease, the specialists at the Lung Institute may be able to help. You can contact the Lung Institute at (855) 978-5767 or visit lunginstitute.com/SeniorNews to find out if you qualify for these new treatments.
FOR PATIENTS WITH: COPD
■ Pulmonary Fibrosis ■ Emphysema
Your stem cells may enhance your quality of life. Stem cell therapy is a minimally invasive, outpatient option that can restore lung function and improve quality of life.
Do you qualify? Take the first step and call.
(855) 978-5767 LungInstitute.com/SeniorNews
National Locations | Pittsburgh Location: 100 Northpointe Circle Ste. 103, Seven Fields, PA 16046
October 2016 • Butler County Senior News
Although flu shots are known to reduce flu-related hospital admissions by up to 77%, when it comes to combating lung disease, there are few options available that directly address more than disease symptoms. However, as medicine has continued to advance, stem cell therapy and clinics such as the Lung Institute (lunginstitute. com) have come to the forefront as a method of treatment. With a success rate of 83% over three years of operation under the highest safety standards, the Lung Institute has been able to increase the quality of life for over 2,500 patients. Using stem cells as the body’s natural repair mechanism, stem cell therapy serves to promote healing from within, reduce lung inflammation, dilate airways and works to improve quality of life and pulmonary function in those with chronic respiratory illnesses.
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Cranberry Senior Center hosts popular Mystery Dinner Theatre • Silver Sneakers Cardio: Mondays at 9:15 a.m.; Silver Sneakers Muscle/ Strength/Range of Motion: Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. and Wednesdays and Fridays at 9:15 a.m.
Continued from page 1 For those who missed the Mystery Dinner Theatre last month, no worries! The center will be hosting another one in early 2017.
• Line Dancing: Advanced. Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m.; Beginners: Mondays at 10:30 a.m.
The center also hosts ongoing daily programs, including: • Lunch: Monday through Friday at noon (a $2.50 donation is suggested; monthly menus are available at the center)
• Zumba Gold: Thursdays at 10 a.m.
• Nickel Bingo: Mondays and Thursdays at 12:30 p.m.
• Seniors for Safe Driving program (inquire at the center for dates)
• Cards: Tuesdays at 12:30 p.m.
• Adult and Senior Walking Programs (inquire at the center for details)
• Learn to Use Computers and Tablets: Fridays at 10:30 a.m.
• Learn to Play Pinochle: Wednesdays at 12:30 p.m. • Blood Pressure Screening: Mondays from 9 a.m. to noon
Carol Fornadel in the role of “Tara Misu.”
• Learn to Play Bridge: Fridays at 12:30 p.m.
In addition to the Cranberry center, the Butler County Area Agency on Aging operates other senior centers in the county. See page 9 for a listing. BCSN The Cranberry Senior Center is located in the Cranberry Township Municipal Building on Rochester Road. It is operated by the Nutrition Group and the Butler County Area Agency on Aging. The center is open from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. every Monday through Friday. To learn more, call (724) 772-6086 or visit twp.cranberry.pa.us.
• Walk for Wellness: Daily from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. • Wii Practice: Tuesdays and Wednesdays • Yoga Stretch: Wednesdays at 12:30 p.m. and Thursdays at 9 a.m. Narrator/director Carol Jean Keefer.
October 2016 • Butler County Senior News
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Cranberry Senior Center assistant director Helen Drovin and director Terri Walker serve delicious homemade rigatoni.
Volunteers Leslie Whipple, Pat Frerotte, Valerie Diamond and Niva Johnson help make the evening a success. Photos by Chuck LeClaire for Butler County Senior News
“Bo Jalais” (Tom Rudnicki) proclaims his innocence.
Programs that can help with prescription drug costs
Many people struggle with their prescription drug costs, even if they have Part D coverage. In the August issue of Senior News, we discussed Extra Help for Part D and how that program helps to drastically reduce a senior’s out-of-pocket costs for their Part D medications. Below is a description of other programs that also help people afford their prescription medications. PACE/PACENET This program is run by the PA Department of Aging and is funded through the state lottery. To qualify for PACE/ PACENET, you must: • be 65 or older; • be a resident of Pennsylvania for at least 90 days; • not be eligible for Medicaid coverage; and • meet income guidelines PACE/PACENET does not consider assets, just the applicant’s income. Eligibility for the program is based solely on last year’s income for a household of one or two. Almost all income (Social Security, SSI, pensions, wages) counts but there are some exceptions. PACE/PACENET does not count, among other things, the Medicare Part B premium that is deducted from someone’s Social Security or Railroad Retirement, any black or white lung benefits, and VA Aid and Attendance benefits. Here are the annual income limits for the program: Household
PACE
PACENET
Single person
$14,500
$ 23,500
Married couple
$17,700
$ 31,500
If a person qualifies for PACE, the program will help pay the person’s Part D premium, eliminate their deductible and any coverage gap (the “doughnut hole”) and reduce the person’s prescription co-pays so that they pay no more than $6 for generics and $9 for brand name drugs. Those who qualify for PACENET must pay either their Part D plan monthly premium or a $35.30 premium at the pharmacy if they are not enrolled in a Part D plan. PACENET also eliminates their deductibles and any coverage gap and limits the person’s drug co-pays to $8 for generics and $15 for brand name medications. Applications for PACE/PACENET can be done by either: Going to the program’s website at pacecaraes.magellanhealth.com, where you can apply online or download an application to complete and mail in; or by calling (800) 2257223 to apply over the phone. Patient Assistance Programs Patient Assistance Programs are offered by pharmaceutical companies to help consumers with limited incomes afford the cost of their medications. Each program is different as the pharmaceutical company decides what drugs it will cover through their program, the income limits it will apply to applicants, and any other requirements for assistance. For example, some Patient Assistance Programs are limited to helping those who have no drug coverage so those with Medicare Part D will not qualify. Other programs are not as restrictive and will assist those who have Part D coverage. Information on whether Patient Assistance Programs are available to help with the costs of specific medications a consumer is taking can be found by visiting needymeds.org or by calling the PA Patient Assistance Program Clearinghouse at (800) 955-0989. BCSN For help applying to any of the programs that help with prescription drug costs, contact the APPRISE program at (800) 783-7067. This article was written by the PA Health Law Project, a nonprofit organization that provides free legal help to low income seniors. PHLP can be reached at (800) 274-3258 or phlp.org. With BAYADA Home Health Care…
“It’s like having more family around.” – Mrs. Frances S., Client
Insurance Agency Saxonburg
BAYADA provides assistive care, such as help with bathing, grooming, and meal preparation, 24 hours, 7 days to keep adults and seniors safe at home.
(724) 352-2000 • freequote24x7.com
Auto • Home • Renter • Life • Health Multi-Line Discounts up to 40%
Call 724-285-7100 www.bayada.com
Compassion. Excellence. Reliability.
October 2016 • Butler County Senior News
The Open Enrollment Period for Medicare Part D drug plans begins on October 15 and runs until December 7. During this time period, anyone on Medicare can enroll into a Part D plan for the first time or change their Part D plan. Keep in mind that a Part D plan’s costs and drug coverage can change from one year to the next. That means it is a good idea to review the information you receive from your plan to make sure it will still meet your needs next year. All enrollments or changes made during the period will become effective on January 1, 2017.
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Penn Mar Players’ recent performance was “Not Your Typical Fashion Show” By Nicole Bauer, Resident Service Coordinator Penn Mar Plaza Apartments For Butler County Senior News
T
he Penn Mar Players Drama Club recently performed yet another successful show called “Not Your Typical Fashion Show” at the Mars Senior Center at Penn Mar Plaza. The amusing fashion show was filled with wacky costumes and props creatively designed by the participants. Every model had an equally imaginative and silly stage name to go along with their fashionable costumes. Master of Ceremonies Jim Charles introduced the 14 runway models: Miss Igot Robbed (Helen Carmichael), Miss Fizzy Lizzy (Pat Hart), Miss Mary Pills (Theresa Greer), Miss Hoppy LaPue (Louise Milewski), Miss Birthday (Wilma Myers), Miss Queen of Hearts (Cathy Noring), Marcel Marcel (Bruno Ligato), Miss Lottie Balls (Noreen Leaser), Miss Bubble Joy (Carol Cook), Miss Alice Blue Gown (Marilyn Boyle), Miss Tenderleaf (Edna Miller), Miss Candy Cane (Lois Janke), Miss Froggy LaCroak (Janet Stewart) and Miss Liz Maynsfield (Irene Maier). It’s no surprise that the show was enjoyed by all who attended, including Penn Mar Plaza tenants, Mars Senior Center members and people from surrounding communities. A reception followed with party cookies and refreshments. There were many behind-the-scenes personnel who assisted the participants with getting dressed in their fashions,
LOOKING FOR
October 2016 • Butler County Senior News
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setting up the reception area, and cleaning up. Proceeds from this show benefited the Penn Mar Plaza Tenants Association. The Penn Mar Players Drama Club has already started planning for their next show, which will be a Mystery Dinner Theater. Other October events to take place at Mars Senior Center include: October 3: Flu Shot Clinic, 10 a.m. to noon October 6: Cookies and Coloring, 1 to 3 p.m. October 17: Depression, presented by Victoria Gatto of Ellwood City Hospital Behavior Clinic, 1 p.m. BCSN Mars Senior Center is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and new members are always welcome. Mars Senior Center and Penn Mar Plaza Apartments is located at 2 Gilkey Drive in Mars. To learn more about the above events, call center director Bob Demask at (724) 625-4466.
awesome SENIOR LIVING?
at Chicora Medical Center
724.445.2000 724.353.1531 724.445.3000 Senior Living • Skilled Care • Memory Care • Rehab
www.QualityLifeServices.com
Ambulance Service • Wheelchair Van Service
Care You Can Count On
• Our wheelchair van service, Butler Assist Coach, currently operates 14 vans providing transport to and from hospitals, doctor’s appointments, nursing homes, and private events (i.e. funerals, weddings, birthdays, etc.)
Serving the Community Since 1967
• Our Assist Coach is available to individuals: with or without their own wheelchairs; with stairs or other obstacles at their residence; and those needing extra assistance in and out of their wheelchairs. • BAS also provides emergency and non-emergency ambulance transports to sick and injured patients. • We operate 11 ambulances from 3 stations, serving the community 24 hours a day. • Reduced rates are available for members.
Butler Ambulance Service • 106 First Street Butler, PA 16001 • (724) 283-4385
– A Partnership in Caring –
At Stay at Home Quality Care, we provide the personalized care that your loved one needs in the security and comfort of their home. Our compassionate caregivers provide a variety of non-medical care services, whether your loved one needs care once a week, or a more comprehensive care plan. Stay at Home Quality Care is here for you and your loved ones.
LIFE offers comprehensive medical care, adult day services and homecare to help older adults, age 55 and older, live at home. Services include all medical care, prescription coverage, physical therapy, transportation and more. Contact us for assistance in determining your eligibility for the program. You may qualify and not even realize it. 231 W. Diamond Street Butler, PA 16001
724-287-LIFE (5433) Call 711 for TTY Relay Services www.lutheranseniorlife.org/LIFE A Partnership of Lutheran SeniorLife and Butler Health System
October 2016 • Butler County Senior News
Live LIFE…At Home
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Q
I’m enrolling in Medicare for the first time. Who can help me get started? Enrolling in Medicare for the first time can be confusing. So it’s no surprise you may have questions. That’s why we have a UPMC for Life Health Care Concierge ready to guide you through the process. Call one today.
A
Toll-free: 1-866-699-4748 Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. 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. Y0069_16_1479 Accepted