December 2017
Volume 24 Number 7
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Ring in the holidays with family and friends at one or more of these local holiday shows and seasonal exhibits By Gina Mazza For Pittsburgh Senior News
Carnegie Museum of Art Holiday Trees and Presepio
It’s that magical time of year again to make special memories with family and friends. When it comes to holiday happenings, Allegheny County and the City of Pittsburgh never lacks for plenty of options to take in a special holiday show, activity or event. Here’s our annual roundup of our favorite things to do in and around the region.
The Carnegie Museum Group, 4400 Forbes Ave., Oakland. Call (412) 622-3131 or visit cmoa.org Kick off your holidays with a visit to this popular seasonal display, brought to you by the Carnegie Museum of Art Women’s Committee. This year’s theme is “Beloved Children’s Books”, featuring trees inspired by The Cat in the Hat, Alice in
Wonderland, The Wizard of Oz, The Jungle Book and The Very Hungry Caterpillar. See the Hall of Architecture filled with several towering Colorado spruce trees, each adorned with handcrafted ornaments from committee members and collaborating organizations. The trees flank the museum’s exquisite Neapolitan presepio Nativity scene, a cherished Pittsburgh tradition. Continued on page 3
* Visit our website at Pittsburghseniornews.com to view our 2017 Allegheny County Senior Resource Guide * Turn to the Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging for assistance. Download a copy of their caregiver guide at alleghenycounty.us/Human-Services/About/Offices/AreaAgency-on-Aging.aspx.
Do you have an event to share? If you would like us to publicize an event in Allegheny County, send information by the 10th day of the month prior. All submissions will be reviewed and every effort will be made to run qualified submissions if page space is available. All submissions should be emailed to pghseniornews@icloud.com.
Publisher’s Corner MAKE YOUR
GOLDEN YEARS SHINE It’s that most wonderful time of the year to make memories with the family. Treat the grandkids to one or more of the holiday events listed in our cover story. Everyone here at Senior News wishes you a very happy holiday season!
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December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
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View the most recent issues of • Pittsburgh Senior News • Beaver County Senior News • Butler County Senior News • Allegheny County Senior Resource Guide •Beaver County Senior Resource Guide •Butler County Senior Resource Guide
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Volume 24, Number 7 Published monthly by Pittsburgh Senior News, Inc. 8280 Tanglewood Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15237 (412) 760-5914
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Contributing Writers: Barbara Bush Judy Dodd Gina Mazza Intern: Kara Makkos Proofreader: Jeff Makkos Printing Company: Knepper Press Pittsburgh Senior News is distributed monthly in the Allegheny County area. Copyright 2017 by Pittsburgh Senior News, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any part of this publication without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. All advertisement in Pittsburgh Senior News is subject to the approval of the publisher. Publication of advertising herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement. In Memory of Carmella M. Hogan John A. Hogan, Sr. Michael J. Hogan, Sr. Wayne Hogan
Ring in the holidays with family and friends at one or more of these local holiday shows and seasonal exhibits Continued from page 1 Handcrafted between 1700 and 1830, teems with lifelike figures and colorful details that recreate the Nativity within a vibrant and detailed panorama of 18th Century Italian village life. More than 100 superbly modeled human and angelic figures, along with animals, accessories and architectural elements, cover 250 square feet. The exhibit runs through January 7. Seniors ages 65 and older, $12; adults, $15; ages 3 to 18, $11. Price of admission includes both art and natural history museums. First Night Pittsburgh Cultural District, Downtown. Call (412) 456-6666 or visit Firstnightpgh.org or TrustArts.org.
Hayden: The Creation Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and Mendelssohn Choir of Pittsburgh. Heinz Hall for the Performing Arts. 600 Penn Ave., Downtown. Call (412) 392-4900 or visit pittsburghsymphony.org. Haydn’s hymn to nature, The Creation, sets the six days to music. Music Director Manfred Honeck, the Mendelssohn Choir of Pittsburgh and the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra present a unique twist on this shining masterpiece. It is set in a schoolroom with a universal lesson perfect for the holidays: a celebration of life and love given to us from above. Let there be light! Show takes place at 8 p.m. on Friday, December 1 and 2:30 p.m. on to Sunday, December 3. Holiday Magic Laser Show Carnegie Science Center. One Allegheny Ave, North Side. Call (412) 237-3400 or visit CarnegieScienceCenter.org. Experience the magic of the holiday season with a little science at this magical holiday laser show perfect for the whole family. Featuring traditional holiday tunes from across generations to contemporary artists performing their personal favorites, this matinee laser show is guaranteed to be a hit with all ages. Shows daily through December 30.
Photo credit: pittsburghsymphony.org
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical PNC Broadway in Pittsburgh, Heinz Hall for the Performing Arts. 600 Penn Ave., Downtown. Call (412) 392-4900 or visit pittsburghsymphony.org. Discover the magic of Dr. Seuss’ classic holiday tale as it comes to life on stage. Featuring the hit songs “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas,” The Grinch discovers there’s more to Christmas than he bargained for in this heart-warming holiday classic. Max the Dog narrates as the mean and scheming Grinch, whose heart is “two sizes too small,” decides to steal Christmas away from the Who’s, an endlessly cheerful bunch bursting with holiday spirit. From Wednesday, December 20 to Sunday, December 24. Cirque Dreams Holidaze The Benedum Center, Downtown. Friday, December 29 and Saturday, December 30. Call (412) 456-6666 or visit Trustarts. org or cirqueproductions.com. Cirque Dreams Holidaze lights up the 2017 season with its 10th Anniversary National Tour created by Cirque Dreams Founder and Broadway Director Neil Goldberg. This critically-acclaimed holiday stage extravaganza is a cirque spectacle …Broadway musical…and family show all in one. Filled with over 300 imaginative costumes, 20 world-class astonishing acts, the finest singers, original music and seasonal favorites, don’t miss snowmen, penguins, angels, reindeer, toy soldiers, gingerbread men, ornaments and of course Santa. Cirque Dreams Holidaze’s soaring acrobatics, gravity defying feats, elaborate production numbers and illusions will leave you mesmerized. Experience this 2-hour theatrical phenomenon. Appropriate for all ages. Tickets start at $40. Continued on page 4
December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
Join Pittsburgh’s 2018 New Year’s Eve Party! A production of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, First Night is an arts-focused and family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration in downtown Pittsburgh’s Cultural District. It is the largest single-day celebration in the region, offering about 150 events at nearly 50 indoor and outdoor locations within a 14-block area. The celebration offers something for everyone, including a countdown to midnight and fireworks display, parade with giant puppets, live music and dance, a Sing-Off competition and art displays both indoors and outside. Admission buttons are $10 (children under age five are free).
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Ring in the holidays with family and friends at one or more of these local holiday shows and seasonal exhibits Continued from page 3
Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland Big Butler Fairgrounds. 1127 New Castle Rd., Prospect. Call (866) 856-8444 or visit Shadrackchristmas.com. Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland is back at the Big Butler Fairgrounds this holiday season. This Christmas light and music extravaganza is unlike any show you’ve seen. Simply tune into your car radio and watch the magic unfold as you drive through hundreds of thousands of brilliant LED lights dancing in perfect synchronization with the music. The lights will glow every night from dusk to 10 p.m., including holidays, through January 7. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays are popular nights to visit the light show, so please anticipate long lines and wait times. Visit Monday through Thursday to avoid extended wait times. Fee is $25 for cars and family vans; $40 for mini-bus, limousine or activity van; $80 for school and tour busses. Items in Santa’s Village are an additional cost. Christmas Wonderland supports local charities. Tickets can be purchased onsite from the comfort of your vehicle. Miniature Railroad & Village Carnegie Science Center. Call (412) 237-3400 or visit Carnegiesciencecenter.org
December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
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Take a walking tour of western Pennsylvania at the world-renowned Miniature Railroad & Village at the Carnegie Science Center. The exhibit began in 1920 with a man named Charles Bowdish of Brookville. Originally a holiday display on the second floor of his house, it moved to the Buhl Planetarium in 1954, and ultimately found its final home at Carnegie Science Center in 1992. The Miniature Railroad & Village features hundreds of wonderfully realistic animated scenes that illustrate how people lived, worked and played in our region during an era spanning the 1880s to the late 1930s. A replica of the Buhl Planetarium on Pittsburgh’s North Side is the latest gem added to this extraordinary display. More favorites include Fallingwater, Forbes Field, Punxsutawney Phil at Gobbler’s Knob, Luna Park, Sharon Steel Mill, a historic Pittsburgh incline and more. The display has 250,000 trees, 105 animations, 85 automobiles and 14 aircraft, and much more.
Photo credit: pittsburghclo.org.
A Musical Christmas Carol The Byham Theater. Friday, December 8 to Saturday, December 23. To order tickets, call (844) 765-8432 or visit Trustarts.org. The holidays would not be the same without Pittsburgh CLO’s A MUSICAL CHRISTMAS CAROL! We’ve taken the spirit of the season, wrapped it in your favorite yuletide melodies and tied it with all the holiday magic and wonder of your childhood. Join Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim and a host of colorful characters for a remarkable CLO holiday presentation of A MUSICAL CHRISTMAS CAROL. With dazzling special effects, holiday charm and ticket prices even Scrooge would approve of, this Charles Dickens classic is a wonderful way to celebrate all the tradition of the season. Starring Broadway’s Patrick Page as Scrooge. Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve PPG Paints Arena, 1001 Fifth Ave., Downtown. Friday, December 22, 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. To purchase tickets, call (855) 335-9722 or visit Pittsburgh-theater.com; prices from $73. This exciting Trans-Siberian Orchestra show is the story of a runaway girl who takes refuge in an abandoned theater on Christmas Eve. She meets the Ghosts of Christmas and learns her own worth. This show was TSO’s first made-for-television film back in 1999. The rock band’s concerts are arguably the most visually dazzling live event you’re ever likely to see, featuring giant video screens, a pyrotechnics display that rivals many cities New Year’s celebrations and more lasers than Star Wars. Composed of four original members, the group’s touring lineup’s ranks are swelled with entire string sections, dozens of extra musicians and choirs. Over the past 20-plus years, Trans-Siberian Orchestra has become a critically acclaimed, multi-platinum, musical powerhouse, and its annual winter tours a beloved, multi-generational holiday tradition.
Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
30 ARTISTS
30 ARTISTS 300 COSTUMES 20 AC 300 COSTUMES 20 ACTS “ ”
DAZZLING
“ DAZZLING ”
-The Washington Post
-The Washington Post
Photo credit: phipps.conservatory.org
Winter Flower Show and Light Garden: Holiday Magic! One Schenley Park in Oakland. Call (412)-622-6914 or visit Phipps.conservatory.org.
Candlelight evenings: Through Sunday, January 7, Phipps will stay open until 11 p.m., giving you a unique opportunity to experience the magic of Winter Flower Show by evening light. Enjoy a relaxing meal at Café Phipps, visit our outdoor Winter Light Garden, and meander through the festive gift shop displays to complete your holiday shopping. Plus, enjoy live musical performances by Samuel Stucky, the Penn Trafford Flute Choir, the Plum Brass Quintet and more. Santa visits: Bring the kids, or the entire family, to pose for a photo with Santa, free with Phipps admission. Santa’s schedule is 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. each Friday, Saturday and Sunday in December.
DECEMBER 29 & 30 BENEDUM CENTER TRUSTARTS.ORG BOX OFFICE AT THEATER SQUARE 412-456-6666 GROUPS 10+ TICKETS 412-471-6930
CirqueProductions.com Continued on page 6
CirqueProductions.com /CirqueDreams
/CirqueDreams
December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
Built around a “Holiday Magic!” theme, the dazzling displays of this year’s Winter Flower Show will feature heartwarming vignettes including an extravagant winter feast, Santa’s workshop and a sparkling New Year’s Eve celebration. The magic is brought to life in signature Phipps fashion with artful LED lights, detailed props, decorated fir and pine trees, amaryllis, orchids and more than 2,000 poinsettias. From majestic, illuminated trees to whimsically oversized ornaments, toys, books and more, the show delights the senses and kindles the spirit of the season in guests of every age. Adding to the festive atmosphere, the Outdoor and Discovery Gardens will sparkle with luminous orbs, trees, fountains, and a tunnel of lights designed to imitate a twinkling winter sky. A new Garden Railroad will be on view, too, taking you on a high-seas adventure to a tropical Treasure Island of joketelling pirates, gleaming treasures and chugging trains. Runs through Sunday, January 7. Daily hours for Winter Flower Show are 9:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. and 5 to 11 p.m. for the Winter Light Garden. Phipps closes at 5 p.m. on Sunday, December 24 and reopens at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, December 26. Admission is $17.95 for adults, $16.95 for seniors and students, and $11.95 for children ages two to 18). Members and kids under age two enter free.
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Ring in the holidays with family and friends at one or more of these local holiday shows and seasonal exhibits PPG Place Wintergarden
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Call (412) 434-1900 or visit ppgplace.com Spirits of Giving Around the World: The splendor of the holidays comes alive at PPG Place’s breathtaking “Spirits of Giving Around the World” exhibit in the Wintergarden at Two PPG Place, downtown, through January 6. This enchanting display of life-size Santas and original paintings captures a world of Christmas folklore and fantasy. The Wintergarden’s spectacular 32-foot tree is adorned with magnificent ornaments. Enjoy the Sounds of the Season in the Wintergarden as a variety of local choirs and musicians perform every day through December 26. Exhibit is free to the public.
Photo credit: pbt.org
The Nutcracker Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre. The Benedum, Downtown . Friday, December 1 to Wednesday, December 27. Call (412) 456-6666 or visit pbt.org or trustarts.org
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Complete with flurrying snow, a colossal Christmas tree and magic tricks galore, this holiday spectacular features over 100 dancers, 200 costumes and Tchaikovsky’s exultant score. Since its 1892 premiere, The Nutcracker has held a special place in holiday traditions all over the world. PBT adds its own spin to the time and place with a turn-of-the-century setting incorporating Pittsburgh’s own landmarks, historical figures and personality. Each performance features a unique casting combination, giving regulars the chance to see a variety of dancers perform iconic roles like Marie, the Nephew, the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier. Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra Highmark Holiday Pops Heinz Hall for the Performing Arts. Friday, December 8 to Sunday, December 17. Call (412) 392-4900 or visit Pittsburghsymphony.org. It’s the most wonderful time of the year—a spectacular concert of holiday music for the whole family. Take a “Sleigh Ride” with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, The Mendelssohn Choir of Pittsburgh, Broadway sensation Ryan Silverman, and Santa Claus, too! It’s Pittsburgh’s favorite holiday tradition. Featuring conductor Andrés Franco, vocals by Ryan Silverman and Christopher Sanders and the Mendelssohn Choir of Pittsburgh Don’t miss the ornate decorations and 25-foot tree in Heinz Hall’s Grand Lobby.
Gingerbread House and Train Display: It’s “Home Sweet Home” in the Wintergarden with the 15th annual Gingerbread House Display. Don’t miss this magnificent display of delicious dwellings created by area individuals, organizations, seniors, students and chefs. Local artist Don Jones enhances the exhibit with a unique display of trains from his private collection. There is no charge for admission; donations benefit the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh’s Free Care Fund. Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides: Get into the holiday spirit and experience downtown in a whole new way during a free horse-drawn carriage ride through Market Square, courtesy of the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership. Free carriage rides depart the Fourth Avenue side of the PPG Place Plaza. Arrive early as rides fill up quickly. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Saturdays through December 23. MassMutual Pittsburgh Ice Rink at PPG Place: Through February 25, the Plaza between Third and Fourth Avenues transform into The Pittsburgh Ice Rink at PPG Place, a spectacular outdoor ice skating rink. It is now through early March. Enjoy an exhilarating holiday tradition as you glide around the breathtaking 65-foot Christmas tree at the plaza. Bring the grandkids to Skate with Santa on Saturdays: December 2, 9 and 16 and 23, from 2 to 4 p.m. Fee is $8 for adults and $7 for seniors (age 50 and older) and children. Skate rentals are $4. Skating lessons are also offered. General hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. but be sure to call and confirm hours or to learn more: (412) 394-3641. PSN
December 20-24 Heinz Hall 412-392-4900 • BOX OFFICE AT THEATER SQUARE GROUPS 10+ TICKETS 412-471-6930
TRUSTARTS.ORG/BROADWAY
December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
BRING YOUR WHOLE WHO-FAMILY!
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Entertainments and Events • Chabad of the South Hills is holding their annual Chanukah Toy Drive for hospitalized and underprivileged children. Collecting new unwrapped toys. Some ideas include puzzles, games, art supplies, legos, duplos, dolls, play food and kitchen items, baby toys. Toys can be dropped off until December 11th at Chabad of the South Hills, 1701 McFarland Rd., Mt. Lebanon, Monday through Friday between the hours of 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 pm. For more information call (412) 278-2658 or email barb@chabadsh.com.
at 2 p.m. December 3. The concert is free and open to the public. Ensemble-in-residence, The Brass Roots will perform along with the Pine Creek Community Band. They will be performing a combination of holiday classics and patriotic favorites. Doors open at 1 p.m. While the concert is free, tickets are required. For tickets, visit soldiersandsailorshall. org or call (412) 621-4253 for will call. There is free parking in the UPMC Open Bigelow Lot across from Soldiers & Sailors Museum.
• The Pittsburgh Concert Chorale will present its annual “Sounds of the Season” concerts at 7:30 p.m. December 1, and at 4 p.m. December 3, at Ingomar United Methodist Church, 1501 W Ingomar Rd., Ingomar and at 7:30 p.m. December 2 at Fox Chapel Presbyterian Church, 384 Fox Chapel Rd., Fox Chapel. Selections for the performances include traditional carols, timeless classics, popular favorites, and some surprises. The Pittsburgh Concert Chorale will also co-host a free “Messiah Sing” at 2 pm.. December 10 with St. Brendan’s Episcopal Church, 2365 McAleer Rd., Franklin Park. Visit PCCsing.org or call (412) 635-7654.
• South Fayette Township Parks and Recreation will host a bus trip to Wheeling Island Casino and Oglebay Holiday Lights Tour December 6. Depart at noon from the South Fayette Senior Center, 515 Millers Run Rd., South Fayette. Cost is $40 per person; fee includes transportation, $25 total combined free play/food vouchers, holiday lights tour. Sign up at southfayettepa.com/recreation or call (412) 221-8700.
• Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum, 4141 Fifth Ave., Oakland, hosts their annual Patriotic Holiday Concert
December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
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• The North Hills Chorale will present a Christmas concert entitled “A Noel Celebration” at 7 p.m. December 9 p.m. and at 3 p.m. December 10, in the Visitation Chapel at Kearns Spirituality Center, a ministry of Sisters of Divine Providence, 9000 Babcock Blvd., Allison Park. The program will include an audience sing-along for Handel’s Hallelujah
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Entertainments and Events Chorus. Free-will offerings accepted. Attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations for North Hills Community Outreach Food Pantry. More information, visit nhchorale.com. • Sealarks Women’s Group will host a Christmas Celebration at 12:30 p.m. December 13 at Memorial Park Church, 8800 Peebles Rd., Allison Park. This group provides Christian fellowship and social activity for women alone – widowed, divorced or never married. All women alone are welcome to attend and consider joining the group. Mr. James Gourley, Conductor of River City Brass will present the Christmas program. Non-members are welcome. Cost is $2 per person. Call (412) 487-7194. • The fifth annual South Hills Lights Community Wide Chanukah event will take place at 6 p.m. December 13 at the Galleria Mt. Lebanon Upper Level (near the fountain). Grand Menorah Lighting, Live music by “Chillent Band”, Latkes with all the trimmings, Chanukah Wood Craft with Home Depot, Giant Chocolate Menorah, and raffle prizes. Admission is free. RSVP appreciated but not required. Those who preregister will receive a free entry into the Grand Chanukah Raffle. Call (412) 344-2424 or visit chabadsh.com.
• Indian cook, Ann Manchella, will demonstrate the preparation of a tasty vegetarian food from South India: Dal Makhani, at 7 p.m. December 18 at Northland Public Library, 300 Cumberland Rd., McCandless. This popular dish’s primary ingredients are black lentils, red kidney beans, butter and cream and is typically served with rice or naan. Watch her preparation and taste a generous sample. Copies of the recipe will be available for you to take home and try it for yourself. Registration is required. Call (412) 366-8100, ext. 103. • A Chanukah seniors lunch will take place at noon December 19 at South Hills Jewish Community Center, 345 Kane Blvd., Scott Township. Enjoy a special Chanukah program, lunch with hot latkes and holiday music. $5 suggested donation. Wheelchair accessible. Call (412) 278-1975 or visit jccpgh.org. • Join Venture Outdoors for Winter Solstice Trout from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. December 20 at Ohiopyle State Park. Nymphing, streamer fishing, and even some dry fly action will be the order of the day. Participants will fish during the warmest time of day and have some hot chocolate at day’s end to warm us up while comparing notes on the year’s fishing. Cost is $65 for members and $86 for non-members. Call (412) 255-0564 or visit ventureoutdoors.org. PSN
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December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
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Gift ideas for the person who has everything, and even those who don’t Dinner at a posh restaurant. Gift certificates to top-star restaurants are always welcome. That way, the recipient can enjoy a gourmet meal without guilt.
By Kimberly Blaker For Pittsburgh Senior News
I
t doesn’t matter whether it’s your parent, spouse, co-worker or friend—some people are difficult to buy gifts for. How many sweaters, candles or bottles of perfume can you dole out to that person before the gesture begins to feel like a consolation prize? This year, try something different with one (or more) of the following suggestions. Gadgets. A man can never have too many of these. How about a bluetooth speaker, headphones, multi-device charging valet, night vision binoculars, heated ice scraper, smartphone Wi-Fi storage, espresso maker or wireless TV speakers?
Massage certificates. This luxury is sure to please anyone and can be had fairly inexpensively through Groupon.
Sporting event tickets. Whatever his or her favorite sport, a pair of tickets is sure to be a hit, and Pittsburgh has no lack of good sports teams. Concert tickets. Whether the person on your list is an oldies or symphony fan, a pair of concert tickets will be a sure pleaser.
Chef supplies. Kitchen appliances and gizmos are great for anyone on your gift list who loves playing chef. Consider a top-quality butcher block knife set, rotisserie, food processor, blender or crockpot. Remote car starter. This is an excellent gift, especially for cold climates. With a remote starter, your gift recipient will be able to heat or cool his or her car before stepping out into unbearable temperatures.
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December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
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Magazine and audio book subscription. There’s a magazine out there for every niche. If the person on your list loves reading but doesn’t have the time, an audio subscription may be the perfect alternative. They can download books to a smartphone or iPod and listen while working out or commuting. Record player and LPs. Vinyl records are re-gaining popularity. Collectible vintage model record players (and brand new ones) can be found online. Look for LPs at vintage record stores around town, antique malls, or online. Music download subscription. It’s nearly impossible to ever have too much music. Subscriptions for music downloads can be found at Amazon, Napster, iTunes, eMusic and Spotify, to name a few.
National Committee, National Coalition for the Homeless, American Humane Society, or whatever organization they take a strong interest in. Memberships to most organizations include periodicals, among many other benefits.
Annual nonprofit membership. Make the person on your list a card-carrying member of the National Audubon Society, Earth Policy Institute, Republican National Committee, Democratic
A trip. This gift could be as simple as a weekend away nearby for some rest and relaxation to a weeklong excursion to a favorite destination. Keep your eyes out for travel deals at TravelZoo,
Travelocity, Google Flights, Airfairwatchdog and Kayak. Museum membership. Is your giftee an art enthusiast or history buff? If so, look into local museum memberships (our Pittsburgh region has ample options). In addition to free entrance, museum memberships typically offer perks such as entry into special exhibitions, discounts on special events, and periodic newsletters. PSN
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December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
We’ve changed our name!
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Create new holiday traditions that you and yours can treasure for years to come By Kimberly Blaker For Pittsburgh Senior News
W
hether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Eid al-Fitr, Bodhi Day or just the winter solstice, holiday traditions are a fun way for families to bond and create fond memories. The traditions that you and your family choose are limited only by your imagination. Customs for gatherings Choose a theme such as “my most memorable holiday season” or “the best thing that happened this year” and ask each person to share a memory. Record the storytelling on video or audio, then play it in future years as part of your memory sharing tradition. Hold a holiday poetry reading. Ask each person to bring copies of favorite seasonal or holiday poems to pass out and read aloud at the gathering.
December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
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Rather than exchanging gifts or doing a drawing for a gift exchange, hold a “white elephant.” Each person brings a wrapped gift that anyone can use. Have guests draw a numbered slip from “1” through the number of people participating. Each guest then chooses and opens a gift in numerical order. Participants may choose either a wrapped gift or take an unwrapped gift from another participant. If a player loses their gift, they choose from either another wrapped gift or take a gift from someone else. For complete rules and variations, visit whiteelephantrules.com. For twosomes or the whole brood Escape the holiday bustle and enjoy a retreat. Try a cozy cabin in the woods or another scenic setting. Then enjoy your togetherness near a roasting fire, flipping through family photo albums, enjoying holiday music, and doing crafts and other relaxing activities.
Start a holiday countdown for your grandkids. Take a three-inch by threefeet strip of ribbon and cut 24-paired slits from top to bottom. Thread each pair with narrow ribbon and tie a flavored sucker in each. Beginning December 1, your grandchild can remove a lollipop each day through Christmas Eve, or the eve of the holiday you’ll celebrate. Couples often forget to take time for each other during the busy holiday season. Plan an evening for two and reserve a table near a fireplace or other romantic setting. When you return home, light some candles and your tree, listen to holiday or soft music and exchange a special gift with each other. Then spend the evening reminiscing. Cut your own tree. Look for the tree that compliments your home or fits your taste. Pick up a book on holiday customs around the world. Each year, choose a different culture or nationality for your theme. Then decorate and try new customs accordingly. Make a shopping date with your partner and assist each other in selecting your holiday attire.
Decide in advance on the formality so you’ll choose complimentary outfits and so your shopping trip together remains agreeable. Just for you Create a new tradition by scheduling time to pamper yourself. Decorate the bathroom in holiday candles, fragrance, and holly. Enjoy a long bubble bath while giving yourself a full salon treatment. Include a manicure, pedicure, deep hair conditioning, facial mask and body buffing. Don’t forget to turn on holiday or other relaxing music. Traditions for all Fill stockings for your kids, partner, or parents to discover. Stuff them with treats, beauty products, postage stamps, lottery tickets and other inexpensive or usable items. Help a needy family. Deliver a box of groceries, or supply a family with gloves and hats. Ask your grandchildren to make room for their own new gifts by donating good but unwanted toys. Offer the toys to the needy family to leave from Santa, or wrap them yourself and leave them on the doorstep.
Take a horse-drawn carriage ride. Don’t forget blankets and your favorite hot beverage for warming your lips and hands.
some investment of time, energy, or money. Taking on too many can cause stress and lead traditions to lose their appeal.
Purchase a new tree ornament each year that signifies something important such as your grandbaby’s first Christmas or solstice.
When you select traditions, divide the responsibilities. Women often take sole responsibility for holiday activities and become overwhelmed. Then they’re unable to enjoy the season. Try not to strive for perfection, and allow men and your grown children to help in the preparation.
Tradition tips
So keep these tips in mind, and enjoy your holiday traditions for years to come. PSN
Don’t continue holiday traditions that have lost their appeal and usefulness, or that create too much stress. Talk to your family or friends who normally share in the tradition, explain your feelings, and ask for input. They may feel the same. If they don’t feel the same way, try to reach a compromise that meets everyone’s needs. Don’t overdo it. It’s easy to get carried away with customs. Be selective and choose those that mean the most to you and your family. Most traditions require
Senior Lifestyle Connections, LLC
Help LifeSpan bring a little holiday joy to Meals on Wheels/Home Delivered Meals participants this holiday season. Join LifeSpan in their eighth annual “Sweet Holiday Wishes” cookie donation campaign. Simply donate 2-3 dozen of your favorite holiday cookies at your local LifeSpan Senior Community Center or HDM Kitchen no later than Friday, December 15. 365 dozen cookies are needed in order to fulfill these wishes and brighten the holiday season for seniors. Visit lifespanpa.org for center locations or call (412) 464-1300. PSN
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December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
Make your own wrapping paper. Cut holiday shapes out of sponges, dip in holiday colored paint and stamp the shapes on brown Kraft paper. Use glitter and glue to add to the festive look.
“Sweet Holiday Wishes” cookie donations are needed
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Confused about Community HealthChoices? and if needed, in a hospital or facility. Plus, LIFE coordinates all Medicare and Medicaid benefits through one single network.
By Jennifer Sestina For Pittsburgh Senior News Choose the provider that’s right for you. LIFE Pittsburgh is an approved alternative for Community HealthChoices. Starting January 1, Pennsylvania is changing how Medicaid services are delivered. The new mandatory plan is called Community HealthChoices, and those affected must select a new Medicaid plan. If you’re an eligible senior, you can select LIFE Pittsburgh. LIFE Pittsburgh provides and coordinates all Medicare and Medicaid services that seniors need to stay in their homes. If a healthcare plan has already been assigned to you or if you’ve already selected a plan, it’s not too late to change your mind. There’s still time to explore the LIFE Program. Your health is important. LIFE Pittsburgh could be the best choice for you.
There are no costs for those who qualify for LIFE Pittsburgh, including those currently receiving or eligible for Aging Waiver services. Call today and see why LIFE Pittsburgh may be the best selection for your alternative Community HealthChoices option.
LIFE Pittsburgh, the local LIFE (Living Independence for the Elderly) Program, provides healthcare and personal support services for seniors living in their homes. Services include medical care, home care, medications, meals, transportation, therapies, and recreational activities, social services, and more. Services are provided in the LIFE Centers, in one’s home,
Questions? To learn more about LIFE Pittsburgh and Community HealthChoices, visit lifepittsburgh.org or call 412-388-8050 TTY:711. PSN LIFE Pittsburgh is a local, nonprofit organization that is part of the national PACE Association and provides comprehensive care to elderly seniors who may not otherwise be able to live independently at home. LIFE Pittsburgh serves seniors in Western Allegheny County and operates six centers.
OUR VOLUNTEERS ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN PENNSYLVANIA.
December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
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Learn how you can get involved with AARP at aarp.org/ iwant2volunteer.
Allegheny County seniors are encouraged to reach out for Information and Assistance through local Senior Community Centers By Gina Mazza For Pittsburgh Senior News
I
t’s often the case that older adults hesitate to reach out for help with daily activities that they were able to handle independently for most of their lives—things like getting to a doctor’s appointment, completing paperwork for insurances and managing finances, or taking care of activities of daily living inside their homes, like cooking and cleaning. Even if seniors would like help with these matters, many times they may not know where to find the resources they need.
Jessica referred Mary to her local utility company and explained to her how to ask the company to enroll her in a more budget-friendly plan, while still paying a monthly bill. “Like a lot of seniors, Mary didn’t want to feel like she was getting a hand out or charity of any sort,” Jessica explains. “When
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I explained the utility company’s customer assistance program, she was relieved that this wasn’t the case. She is now able to better manage her monthly bills.” Ellen, 84, of Bethel Park, was having trouble with getting where she needed to go. Technically homebound, she had relied on a neighbor to drive her to her medical appointments. “Then that friend experienced a loss in the family and was not available, and Ellen’s son lives out of state,” Jessica says. “I went to her home and registered her for ACCESS. Now she is able to take ACCESS to her healthcare appointments and to her church. She is grateful to have her independence back.”
Accessing Information & Assistance For these seniors and many others, resources are readily available to resolve these types of situations and offer needed temporary or longterm support. The Allegheny County Department of Human Services Area Agency on Aging’s (DHS/AAA) SeniorLine exists as a free one-stop resource to county residents (fielding more than 60,000 calls every year). Several dozen highly qualified Information and Assistance (I&A) specialists like Jessica are also available through DHS/AAA’s partner agencies throughout the community, such as LifeSpan. Continued on page 16 Volume 8, Issue 7
December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
Such was the case with Mary, 69, of Mount Oliver. Earlier this year, Mary was experiencing some financial issues and felt overwhelmed with how to resolve them, but was hesitant to ask for help. Through the LifeSpan Senior Community Center in Homestead, she was connected to Jessica Gettig, a certified Information and Assistance specialist at the center. “After asking Mary some questions and listening to her concerns, I was able to determine that her energy bills where a huge burden to her budget, along with healthcare costs,” Jessica recalls.
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Allegheny County seniors are encouraged to reach out for Information and Assistance through local Senior Community Centers support to the I&A industry for 40 years.
Continued from page 15
The DHS/AAA and its I&A partners provide a key role in providing information to older adults and their caregivers to help them remain in their own homes for as long as possible.
December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
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Information & Assistance links people in need to a broad range of appropriate community, social, health and government resources—whether it’s information about available transportation or in-home services, or more in-depth support like ongoing care management. “The DHS/AAA and its I&A partners provide a key role in providing information to older adults and their caregivers to help them remain in their own homes for as long as possible,” says Jennifer Georgulis, an I&A supervisor at SeniorLine. “This provides individuals with valuable information on how services can be accessed and the information that they need.” While SeniorLine remains the central point of contact for DHS/AAA services, I&A specialists can also be found around the county at 21 specific Senior Community Centers called “Focal Points.” (A listing of these Focal Points can be found in every issue of Senior News.
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This listing is also available in the annual Allegheny County Senior Resource Guide.) The I&A staff When you contact an I&A specialist, rest assured that you are speaking with someone who is trained specifically to help you navigate the network of possible resources. I&A staff on SeniorLine and at partner agency Focal Points are qualified professionals, nationally certified by the Alliance of Information and Referral Systems (AIRS) and hold certification as Information and Referral Specialists in Aging/Disabilities. This professional credentialing program is based on established industry standards by AIRS, an international association that has been providing leadership and
Last year, AIRS members answered more than 20 million calls nationwide for help about community, social and health services. “In Allegheny County, each of the Senior Community Center partner agencies has at least one designated Alliance of Information and Referral Systems certified staff person at their community Focal Points to provide I&A services,” says Ethel Novogradac, an I&A supervisor at SeniorLine. “These staff can answer questions, assist with benefit applications and have access to information on a large number of local and statewide resources to assist older adults and those who care for them.” Other types of information that I&A staff can help with include detailed descriptions of programs and services and their eligibility requirements, referrals to appropriate community resources, advocacy on behalf of a client when services are not being adequately provided or when the client is unable to obtain a service on their own, crisis intervention to ensure the safety of the client, follow-ups to make sure vulnerable clients in difficult situations actually get the help they need, and emergency preparedness and response prior to or during a disaster or its immediate aftermath and recovery period. Volume 8, Issue 7
The assessment process If your questions are more in-depth and your need for assistance is ongoing, such as needing in-home care or assistance with applying for Medical Assistance for nursing home placement or a nursing home alternative program, the first step in obtaining the help you need is an assessment. Contact SeniorLine to get any of these processes started. SeniorLine will do an initial screening and guide you to the most appropriate choices available to meet your needs, as well as explain the next steps in the process. An intake for ongoing in-home services might be recommended.
APPRISE program counselors assist older adults with questions about Medicare and health insurance coverage
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I&A specialists at the community Focal Points, as well as SeniorLine staff, can also assist you with completing applications to entitlement programs, such as PACE (Pharmaceutical Assistance Contract for the Elderly), LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program), property tax assistance programs and rent rebates. PSN SeniorLine answers Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call it at (412) 350-5460, toll free at (800) 344-4319 or TTY (412)-350-2727. Alternatively, email your questions to SeniorLine@alleghenycounty.us.
The program uses specially trained volunteer counselors to inform, educate and answer questions about original Medicare, Medicaid, Medigap and managed-care options, long-term care insurance, eligibility for special financial assistance programs to assist those with low incomes, and about related information and resources. The Allegheny County Department of Human Services Area Agency on Aging administers the APPRISE program through Family Services of Western Pennsylvania. APPRISE counselors also provide face-to-face counseling at the East Liberty office, located at 6401 Penn Avenue. To learn more about the program, call (412) 661-1438 or contact SeniorLine at (412) 350-5460. PSN Volume 8, Issue 7
December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
he APPRISE program is the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) for Pennsylvania residents on Medicare. The program helps to ensure that Allegheny County’s Medicare beneficiaries and other older adults fully understand their health insurance/healthcare benefits and options.
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December Menu Friday, December 1: Turkey divan, brown rice, peach cuts. Monday, December 4: Rotini with ground turkey sauce, Italian green beans with chopped red pepper, sliced apricots. Tuesday, December 5: Roast beef with gravy, gourmet potatoes, carrot coins, orange. Wednesday, December 6, Birthday menu: Cabbage roll, whipped horseradish potatoes, tossed salad, white cake. Thursday, December 7: Chicken breast, yams, broccoli and cauliflower, banana. Friday, December 8: Baked cod, stewed tomatoes with zucchini, macaroni and cheese, apple. Monday, December 11: Teriyaki meatballs with gravy, scalloped potatoes, green beans, pineapple and mandarin oranges. Tuesday, December 12: Apple and spice pork with sauce, sliced beets, wide noodles, orange. Wednesday, December 13: Chicken leg and thigh, oven browned potatoes, spinach salad, peach slices. Thursday, December 14: Roast beef with gravy, whipped potatoes, peas with red pepper, cinnamon applesauce. Friday, December 15: Southwestern chili, coleslaw, brown rice, banana. Monday, December 18: Turkey with gravy, gourmet potatoes, broccoli, corn, green peppers, apple. Tuesday, December 19: Baked cod, au gratin potatoes, stewed tomatoes and zucchini, peach cuts. Wednesday, December 20, Holiday menu: Chicken breast with lemon sauce, whipped potatoes with chives, whole green beans, apple pie.
December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
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Thursday, December 21: Bow ties in beef meat sauce, tossed salad, banana. Friday, December 22: Hearty beef stew, pineapple cuts. Monday, December 25, Christmas Day: Closed. Tuesday, December 26: Turkey and navy bean chili, Italian green beans, wheat macaroni, pineapple cuts Wednesday, December 27: Barbecue boneless country ribs, scalloped potatoes, cauliflower, fruit cocktail. Thursday, December 28: Open face turkey sandwich with gravy, whipped potatoes, seasoned green beans, orange. Friday, December 29: Meatloaf, savory potatoes, sliced carrots, pears. This menu is for senior centers and home-delivered meals funded in part by the DHS AAA. Centers are open Monday through Friday. Call (412) 350-5460.
Allegheny County Department of Human Services
Area Agency on Aging
Birmingham Towers, 2100 Wharton St., Second Floor Pittsburgh, PA 15203 Serving the older adults of Allegheny County Rich Fitzgerald, Allegheny County Executive William McKain, Allegheny County Manager Marc Cherna, Director Patricia Valentine, Acting Administrator FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: Contact Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging’s SeniorLine at (412) 350-5460; Toll Free – (800) 344-4319; TDD – (412) 350-2727
or visit alleghenycounty.us/dhs/aaa. Information and Assistance Service Partner Agencies At Senior Community Centers Allentown Senior Center (412) 481-5484 Catholic Youth Association (412) 621-3342 Citiparks (412) 422-6570 Eastern Area Adult Services, Inc. (412) 829-9250 Hill House Association Senior Services (412) 392-4450 Jewish Community Center (412) 521-8010 LifeSpan, Inc. (412) 464-1300
SOCIAL SERVICES Information and Assistance Care Management Adult Day Services Adult Foster Care Home Delivered Meals Home Health Services Personal Care Home Support Services Protective Services Long Term Living Counseling Health Insurance Counseling Family Caregiver Support Companions for Homebound Nursing Home Resident Advocacy
Lutheran Service Society (412) 734-9330 Northern Area Multi-Service Center (412) 781-1176 Penn Hills Senior Center (412) 244-3400 Plum Senior Community Center (412) 795-2330 Riverview Community Action Corp. (412) 828-1062 Seton Center, Inc. (412) 344-4777 Vintage, Inc. (412) 361-5003
SENIOR CENTER SERVICES Education Programs Exercise and Fitness Volunteer Opportunities Social and Recreational Programs Congregate Meals Legal Services Assistance in Applying for Benefit Programs Health Insurance Counseling
Volume 8, Issue 7
Caring for the Caregiver A Q&A with Gallagher Home Health Services A: In 2004, Diane Karcz, RN and her brother, Gary J. Gallagher, created this agency in honor of their mother, Iva R. Gallagher. They wanted to follow in her footsteps and “treat everyone like family.” Using this motto to guide them, the business has grown from three employees to 103, and one patient to an average daily census over 600. Gallagher Home Health Services has been named to the “Home Care Elite” every year since its inception, with top scores in improving patient outcomes and our community set us apart from our competitors. Q: What is the difference between Home Health Services and Home Care Services? A: Home Health Services include skilled care such as skilled nursing, physical therapy, occupational and speech therapy, social services, home health aide
visits and mental health nursing (these are intermittent skilled visits provided in patients’ homes to help them recover from an illness, surgery or other medical condition). Home Care Services are typically non-medical services to help patients stay in their home safely, such as bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, companion, homemaking, medication reminder and more. Care can be provided in hours, visits or shifts in the home. Q: Who typically pays for both Home Health and Home Care Services? A: Home Health Services must be ordered by a physician and are paid for by Medicare, Medicaid and a variety of commercial insurances. The recipient must meet certain criteria that may include homebound status to qualify for services. Home Care Services can be paid for through private pay, PDA Waiver, VA Services and most longterm care insurance policies.
Home Care
Q: When looking for Home Health or Home Care Services, what are some important questions patients and their families should ask? A: Is the provider licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Health? Are caregivers bonded and insured? What type of screening process does the agency require? How does the provider select and train their caregivers? Does the agency provide nurses to oversee the care clients are receiving in their homes? How does the agency compare to its competitors? Does the agency have a patient advocate to serve its clients? Does the agency provide a free nursing assessment to its potential clients? PSN For more information on Gallagher Home Health Services, call (412) 2797800; to learn more about Gallagher Home Care Services, call (412) 279-2257 or visit gallagherhhs.com.
Services
A Division of Gallagher Home Health Services
We’ll take care of you like family . . . because those are the values instilled in us by our Mom Iva Gallagher Our Mom, Our Motivation
Gallagher Home Care can provide you with the Medical or NonMedical services you need to stay in your home safely. Over 5,000 people have trusted us to provide their care and you can too.
Care can be Provided in Hours, Visits or Shifts • Personal Care • Bathing, Dressing, Grooming, Toileting • May include Companion & Homemaking Services • Companions • Medication Management
• • • • •
Homemaking Private Duty Nursing or Home Health Aides PDA and VA Services Long Term Care Insurances Worker’s Compensation
For information on Gallagher Home Care Services contact:
Katie Poeschel, Director of Home Care Development
(412) 279-2257 412-279-2257
Kpoeschel@gallagherhhs.com
Our Home Health Division can provide you with Skilled Services ordered by your physician and generally paid for by your insurance company. This may include: • • • • • • •
Skilled Nursing Mental Health Nursing
Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy Speech Therapy Social Work Home Health Aides
Do you have questions? Call us at
412-279-7800 Or visit us at
www.Gallagherhhs.com
December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
Q: How was Gallagher Home Health Services founded?
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Five Things You Can Do to Reduce Your Risk of Heart Disease Heart disease may be the leading cause of death in the United States, and recent studies indicate these rates continue to climb due to lifestyle factors such as smoking, poor diet and lack of exercise. But that doesn’t mean you can’t do anything to change your fate. Although you lack the power to change some risk factors, there are some preventive steps you can take. Don’t Smoke Smoking is one of the major risk factors for heart disease. Substances in tobacco smoke can lead to narrowing of the blood vessels (atherosclerosis), blood thickening (resulting in blockages), increase in work of the heart pump and decreased oxygen (carbon monoxide in tobacco smoke). Regular smoking and even “social smoking” (the occasional cigarette) is dangerous. If you smoke, ask your doctor about ways to cut down and eventually quit altogether. Keep in mind that not everyone quits the first time. Most people need many tries until they finally quit and cut their risks. Keep Your Weight at a Healthy Level Our weight is a mixture of bone, muscle, water and fat. As we get older we gain weight, which is not muscle, and instead fat. That extra fat can cause problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, joint damage and heart disease.
December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
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What then is a good weight? BMI (body mass index) is a guide used by the medical profession. There are many apps or calculators on the Internet to figure yours out. Another way to judge is by the width of your waist, which is a useful way to measure belly fat: • Men are considered overweight if greater than 40 inches. • Women are considered overweight if greater than 35 inches. There is hope of course. Even small cuts in weight can be beneficial. Cutting your weight by just 10 percent can drop your blood pressure, lower blood cholesterol and lessen your risk of heart disease.
If your numbers aren’t good, like blood pressure, changes in your diet, exercise and reducing your weight may be enough. Higher or persistently high levels may require medication. Check for Diabetes How? Try 30 minutes of activity per day that causes your heart rate to increase. • Eat regular meals. • Drink a glass of water before meals. • Cut down or do away with soda. • Don’t eat between meals or before bed. If you do, have a piece of fruit rather than a bag of chips. See Your Doctor Regularly for Annual Health Check-Ups High blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes can damage your heart and blood vessels. Don’t get caught without knowing about these bad boys. By finding out about them you can take action to lower the damage they can cause if left untreated. Lots of people go years without knowing they have these. All that time they are working to damage the heart and blood vessels. Check Blood Pressure Have it checked by your doctor, at a free screening, in the supermarket or local pharmacy. If you have a measurement of 140/90 or above, you should follow up with a doctor. Blood pressure doesn’t always require medicine. Eliminating salt from your diet, exercise and reducing weight may be enough to control mild elevations in blood pressure. Higher blood pressure or blood pressure that doesn’t respond to diet and exercise may require medication. Talk to your doctor in this case. Check Cholesterol Levels Adults should have their cholesterol values measured by their doctor. We say “values” because there is more than one type of cholesterol. Interpreting a cholesterol result usually requires the explanation of your doctor.
Since diabetes is a risk factor for developing heart disease, you should be screening for diabetes, particularly if people in your family has diabetes or if a woman had diabetes in pregnancy. This may be as simple as a finger prick to obtain a drop of blood. If you have it, you take measures to treat it. Like blood pressure and cholesterol, the first steps for mild elevations are diet, exercise and reducing your weight. Continued blood sugar elevations may require medication (pills) and in more severe cases insulin. You have more control than you think. Taking control means taking action. Take action and change your future: for you, for your family and for all those around you whose day is made better by your presence. Heart Disease Non-Modifiable Risk Factors Include: Family History; Male Gender; Age; Race Modifiable Risk Factors Include: Smoking; Obesity; Elevated Blood Pressure; Cholesterol; Uncontrolled Diabetes New Risk Factors Being Identified Large government-funded surveys, such as one that began in 1985 and was published in the New England Journal of Medicine are changing notions about who is affected by heart disease. It found that with identical risk factor profiles, an alarming portion of heart disease is occurring in a much younger group (under age 50) among African Americans. This study is significant in that it looked at the potential risk factor of race in heart disease and changes in medical practice to more aggressively identify and treat modifiable risk factors in African American men and women.
If you have these cards… ACCESS
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Gateway Health has been serving those with Medicaid for 25 years. We know how to help people just like you who are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid. Gateway Health Medicare AssuredSM gives you more than basic health coverage: More Savings $0 to low premium and copay options
More Care Dental, vision and hearing coverage
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More Programs and Services Benefits vary by plan.
Learn more today. 1-877-GATEWAY/TTY: 711
8 a.m. to 8 p.m., 7 days a week
Gateway HealthSM offers HMO plans with a Medicare contract. Some Gateway Health plans have a contract with Medicaid in the states where they are offered. Enrollment in these plans depends on contract renewal. Gateway Health Special Needs Plans are available to anyone who has both Medical Assistance from the State and Medicare. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, copays and restrictions may apply. Benefits, premiums and copays may change on January 1 of each year. Premiums and copays may vary based on the level of Extra Help you receive. Please contact the plan for further details. You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium. The State pays the Part B premium for full dual members. Gateway Health complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. Gateway Health does not exclude people or treat them differently because of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. ATTENTION: If you speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call PA: 1-800-685-5209, OH: 1-888-447-4505, NC: 1-855-847-6430, KY: 1-855847-6380 (TTY: 711). ATENCIÓN: Si usted habla español, tenemos servicios de asistencia lingüística disponibles para usted sin costo alguno. Llame al PA: 1-800-685-5209, OH: 1-888-447-4505, NC: 1-855-847-6430, KY: 1-855-8476380 (TTY: 711). 小贴士：如果您说普通话，欢迎使用免费语言协助服务。请拨 PA: 1-800-685-5209, OH: 1-888-447-4505, NC: 1-855-847-6430, KY: 1-855-847-6380 (TTY: 711). Y0097_1073 Accepted
December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
www.medicareassured.com
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Find caregiving help through online training videos A wide variety of resources are available today to support caregivers in getting the information they need to take good care of their loved ones. Following are some helpful online training videos. Online Training Videos/Resources Caregiver Training Series: How to give a body bath. Demonstrates how to bathe your care receiver. Visit youtube.com/ watch?v=9VKox-wy4fU. Changes in personality and Behavior in a demented patient. Tips on how to manage difficult behaviors and to deal with personality changes in individuals with dementia. Visit youtube.com/watch?v=m18shMbpsQQ. Diversity in Caregiving: LGBT Caregivers. Due to societal discrimination, the LGBT community seeks support from supportive caregivers within the community. This video discusses how to care for each other and finding ways to be supported by employers. Visit youtube.com/watch?v=zArxah854Ng. How to manage your stress. Tips and strategies to managing stress and avoiding burnout. Visit youtube.com/ watch?v=s2iOTptXD1M. Practical Strategies for Lowering Caregiver Stress. Provides information about how to effectively manage stress for caregivers and how to care for a loved one with memory loss. Visit youtube.com/watch?v=p3AttEzv0FY.
Safe at Home: A Caregiver’s Guide. Offers caregivers with simple, inexpensive suggestions for making basic home modifications and general home safety. The guide is intended for families caring for loved ones in the middle and advanced stages of dementia. Visit youtube.com/watch?v=uSUNMbQz59g. Family Caregiver Alliance’s Caregiver College Videos. • Chapter 1: Transfer Skills.Visit youtube.com/ watch?v=oB0uPouIcXo. • C h a p t e r 2 : N u t r i t i o n . Vi s i t y o u t u b e . c o m / watch?v=hrNpX913KkE. • Chapter 3: Dental Care. Visit youtube.com/ watch?v=xFG1jtf6Zdg. • Chapter 4: Bathing and Dressing.Visit youtube.com/ watch?v=lvQtjY3-bcE. • Chapter 5: Toileting and Incontinence.Visit youtube. com/watch?v=4DvYE12CM0c. • Chapter 6: Behavioral Issues. Visit youtube.com/ watch?v=VDOJxKxNKsI. • Chapter 7: Self-Care.Visit youtube.com/watch?v=zi_gYDUfOKI. These videos are listed in the Caregiver Resource Guide provided by the Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging. To download the guide, viist alleghenycounty.us/Human-Services/NewsEvents/Engagement/Caregiver-Support-Programs.aspx.
Confused about Community HealthChoices? LIFE Pittsburgh can help. December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
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Starting January 1, Pennsylvania is changing how Medicaid services are delivered. The new mandatory plan is called Community HealthChoices, and those affected must select a Managed Care Organization. LIFE Pittsburgh is an approved alternative for CHC, and if you’re 55 and eligible, you can choose the LIFE Program now. Managed Care Organizations are not able to begin providing services until January 2018.
Questions? To learn more, call 412-388-8050 to schedule a tour of your local LIFE Center, or arrange a home visit. lifepittsburgh.org 412-388-8050 TTY:711 @lifepittsburgh
Are You Depressed? Get paid to participate in a research study investigating why some people with depression have thoughts of suicide and others do not. Looking for: Adults 50 or older who have been feeling sad, down, or hopeless; have less interest in activities; or have noticed a decrease in energy, concentration, sleep, or appetite.
Training opportunities: 2 Customer Service 2 Clerical 2 Custodial 2 Front Door Monitor
AARP paid training program enables you to train and get paid for your training, as you look for a job.
Call AARP (412) 271-1580 Age, income and residency requirements apply.
Involvement: • 2-3 visits, 2-3 hours each • Interview-style assessments, memory and attention testing, and computer games • Compensation ranges from $100 to $150, and up to $50 travel reimbursement • fMRI scan (optional, $150 extra) Contact dnpl@upmc.edu, or call 412-246-6014 University of Pittsburgh
December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
55+ . . . Unemployed . . . . Need a Job . . .
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Pittsburgh continues to be an “age-friendly” city
By Barbara Bush For Pittsburgh Senior News “Age-friendly” is a phrase that can be (and has been) used to describe Pittsburgh. In fact, in the groundbreaking Age-Friendly Greater Pittsburgh action plan published by the Southwestern Pennsylvania Partnership for Aging (SWPPA), our city has been cited as part of the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Network for Age-Friendly Cities and Communities.
December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
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Pittsburgh is capable of being even more of an “age-friendly” city with a few adjustments that will improve our most livable city. These adjustments are outlined in an action plan that was launched recently at the City-County Building by SWPPA’s initiative, AgeFriendly Greater Pittsburgh. The concept of age-friendly is not limited to the senior community. This is an important concept for everyone. It may range from the toddler walking on sidewalks without defects such as broken concrete or missing slabs to the ageless senior or individual living with disabilities who will be traveling on this same sidewalk, perhaps with a wheelchair or walker. In between these two age spectrums are residents
Photo credit: Age-Friendly Greater Pittsburgh
Laura Drogowski (City of Pittsburgh Mayor’s Office), Laura Poskin (AgeFriendly Greater Pittsburgh), County Executive Rich Fitzgerald, Linda Wortham (AARP), Linda Doman (SWPPA) and Bill McDowell (Lively Pittsburgh).
of the community who have various concerns about their community— from the roads to traffic flow, as well as transportation, personal and public with safety. Some examples are safely crossing streets, kiosks for inclement weather, timing of street lights, to name just a few that were expressed at one of the public input sessions in October that assisted in the formation of the action plan.
An age-friendly community is a friendly community and, I don’t know about you, but that’s a community I want to be a part of.
Many AARP members were participants of the input sessions. One of our dedicated volunteers, Jo Ann, commented that “as you grow older, you need those neighbors and a community environment, not only to keep you young in spirit, but to know that somebody is there.” At the kick-off event, AARP volunteer Linda Wortham (who spoke at the event) shared how she is still continuously involved in her community and in making the city a better place for older adults. “To me, the age-friendly movement is about being able to enjoy life right here in my community,” she said. “For many older adults, that desire to enjoy life doesn’t diminish as we age, or retire,
“An age-friendly community is a friendly community and, I don’t know about you, but that’s a community I want to be a part of.”
Photo credit: Bike Pittsburgh
or face obstacles. We are still active and a vibrant part of our community. That’s why it is so important to ensure that our streets are safer, our homes and facilities are easy to access, and that we have opportunities to connect socially and give back to our community.
To read the Action Plan in its entirety, visit swppa.org/agefriendly. To get involved, email Age-Friendly Greater Pittsburgh project coordinator Shayna Gleason at shayna@sayhellotochange.com. Another important contact is Laura Poskin, the project
CROWN Antiques
Photo credit: Bike Pittsburgh
manager for Age-Friendly Greater Pittsburgh; she can be reached at (859) 321-2729 or laura@sayhellotochange.com. To learn more about the Network of Age-Friendly Communities, visit aarp.com/livablecommunities/network-agefriendlycommunities. PSN
Discover The Juniper Village Difference!
and collectibles
We Buy! One Piece, or the Entire House! • Books
• Coins
• Photographs
• Magazines
• Stamps
• Military Items
• Postcards
• Sports Memorabilla
• Old Watches
• Jewelry
• Gold
• Political Buttons
• Silver
• Fountain Pens
• Autographs
Senior Living, Personal Care, and Wellspring Memory Impairment Care Spacious Studios, Suites and One-Bedroom Apartments Available. On-Site Nursing Staff and 24 Hour Assistance with Daily Care Needs. Structured Activities and Programs Seven Days a Week. Delicious Meals and Snacks Daily. Housekeeping and Laundry Services
For More Information or to Schedule Your Personal Tour, Contact Juniper Village at (412) 244-9901 Today!
We Sell Over 4 Million Items 5 Floors of Eclectic Collectibles
www.junipercommunities.com
1018 5th Ave., Pittsburgh PA 5013180
(412) 434-6425
www.crowntiques.com
107 Fall Run Road Pittsburgh, PA 15221
December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
• Comics
adno=5680033
• Art
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HARRISON HI RISE Senior Apartments 2006 Broadview Blvd., Natrona Heights, PA 15065
Beechtree Commons 6460 Leechburg Rd. Verona, PA 15147 62 and Older
Rent Assistance
Harrison Hi Rise is a Secure Apartment building conveniently located near shopping and public transportation.
Amenities Include: All Utilities
Community Room
Air Conditioning
Video Surveillance
Individual Balcony
Community Life Services
Laundry Facilities
Fitness Room
Call (724) 224-4571 for more information.
Elliott Heights
1110 Steuben St., Pittsburgh, PA 15220 62 and Older ➻ Community/Game Room ➻ Controlled Access ➻ Emergency Call System ➻ Utility Allowance ➻ Elevator ➻ Library ➻ One-Bedroom Floor Plan ➻ On-Site Laundry Facility ➻ Service Coordinator
December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
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Alia Carter, Senior Manager (412) 920-7181 Rent is based on income. HUD subsidized.
Available Units
➻ Central Air ➻ Community/Game Room ➻ Controlled Access ➻ Elevator ➻ Emergency Call System ➻ Library ➻ One-Bedroom Floor Plan ➻ All Utilities Included
(412) 798-5589 Alia Carter, Senior Manager Rent is based on income. HUD subsidized.
OpeningCoalition Soon Northside Northside Coalition Senior Housing 1500 Brighton Place, Pittsburgh, PA 15212 RENT ASSISTED HOUSING FOR PERSONS AGED 62 OR OLDER 1 BEDROOM APARTMENTS EQUIPPED KITCHEN, W/W CARPETING, A/C, WINDOW COVERINGS, COMMUNITY, COMPUTER ROOM & LAUNDRY FACILITY, SECURE INTERCOM ACCESS, PUBLIC TRANS $22,050/yr. 2 Persons…$23,150/yr $25,200/yr. Income Limits Apply: 1 Person…$20,250/yr;
Please contact SUPPORTIVE HOUSING MANAGEMENT SERVICES, INC
PHONE:
1 (800) 238-7555
Eva P. Mitchell Residence
Bellefield Dwellings
Now accepting Housing Applications. Age 62 and older or Mobility Impaired.
Historic building located in the Oakland Civic Center
1621 Lincoln Avenue • Pittsburgh, PA 15206 Section 8 assistance available to those who qualify. Rent reduced to 30% of tenant income.
Income Limits Will Apply • Newly renovated spacious efficiencies and 1 bedroom apartments • Carpet and central air conditioning • Controlled building entry • Emergency call systems in units • On-site service coordinator • Community room/planned activities • On-site laundry facilities For information on placing an application, call
Donna Rivers at (412) 363-4169
1 & 2 bedroom apartments available Located on a bus line, convenient to shopping, cultural activities and health care facilities. Building with on-site laundry and roof garden.
Income-based rent, Section 8 with utilities included. Applications accepted daily from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. 4400 Centre Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 *MUST BE 62 YEARS OR OLDER OR DISABLED* (412) 621-1132
AARP News Churchill AARP #1411 meets on the third Tuesday of each month at John Fisher Church, 33 Lewin Lane, Churchill. Doors open at 11:30 a.m. meeting starts at 12:30 p.m. Call Shirley at (412) 798-3961.
East End AARP #4542 will meet at 1 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of each month in the Social Room Annex at St. James A.M.E. Church 444 Lincoln Ave., Sumpter Hall. Come early and bring a lunch. Call (412) 242-0330.
Clairton Area AARP #1612 will meet December 6 at the South Hills Country Club, 4305 Brownsville Rd., South Hills, for their annual holiday lunch. Keyboardist, Jim Sykes, will entertain. with festive holiday music. Call Donna Shultz at (412) 384-7894 for menu choices and to make a reservation. The cost is $25 per person.
East Liberty AARP #2612 will meet at 12:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday each month, in the cafeteria at Vintage Senior Center, 401 North Highland Ave. New members are welcome as well as visitors. Call Vintage at (412) 361-5003.
Hill District AARP #4706 meets at noon on the Fourth Tuesday each month at Ebenezer Baptist Church, 2001 Wylie Ave., Hill District. New members and visitors welcome.
1 month FREE rent on select units!
BRIGHTWOOD PLAZA
Penn Hills AARP #2600 meets at 1 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month at Hebron United Presbyterian Church, Barclay Building, Frankstown and Lakesto Roads, Penn Hills. Social hour is from noon to 1 p.m. Call (412) 795-7708. Perrymont AARP #2991 meets at 11:30 a.m. on the third Thursday of each month at Northmont Church, 8169 Perry Hwy., North Hills. A light lunch is served. Call (412) 389-2369. Whitehall AARP #2050 holds monthly meetings at noon on the first Thursday of each month at the Whitehall Presbyterian Church, 4935 Willock Ave. Bring lunch; coffee, tea and doughnuts are served for a donation. Call (412) 8811726. PSN
H.A. English and Associates, P.C. Attorneys at Law
All utilities are included! $1,010 1 Bedroom
$1,050 1 Bedroom With Den
$1,135 2 Bedrooms 2 Baths
• Huge floor plans with sunken living rooms and large bay windows • Controlled access buildings with intercom • Easy access showers available in two bedroom units • Convenient to bus, trolley and 3,000 acre county park Brightwood Plaza Apartments 4940 Brightwood Rd., Bethel Park, PA 15102 Office (412) 831-9454; Fax (412) 831-5733 Email BRIGHTWOODPLAZA@VERIZON.NET
Hal English Attorney Since 1987
• Estate Administration
• Medicaid Planning
• Special Needs Trusts
• Elder Law
• Power of Attorney
• Probate
• Guardianships
• Wills
4000 Mt. Royal Blvd. and Duncan Ave. Allison Park, PA 15101
(412) 486-1923 • www.halenglish.com
December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
Dormont AARP #3016 meets on the second Thursday of each month at Unity Presbyterian Church, 1146 Greentree Rd., Dormont. Doors open 11:30; meeting is at noon. Light refreshments are served. New members and visitors are welcome. Call Beverly at (412) 563-3961.
Gateway North AARP #3586 holds monthly meetings on the third Monday of the month at 1 p.m. in the West View Banquet Hall, 398 Perry Hwy., West View. Entertainment is provided.
Kennedy AARP #2203 meets at noon on the fourth Tuesday of each month at the Kennedy Township Fire Hall, Pine Hollow Road. Call (412) 771-5183.
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Sweet Treats Word Scramble Unscramble the following treats correctly for a chance to win $30 cash. 8. epi
_____________
15. eescehaekc _____________
2.cndya
_____________
9. ugonutdh _____________
16. usdnea _____________
3. eic aecmr
_____________
10. ucpkcea _____________
17. eertbsh _____________
4. rnwbeio
_____________
11. ufimfn _____________
18. ocbbelr _____________
_____________
12. cnaoorma _____________
19. oersm _____________
_____________
13. uftrfels _____________
20. seoakhrct _____________
7. udpdgin _____________
14. ssmeuo _____________
21. smklihkae _____________
6. hocltecoa
and much more!
5. okoeci
To enter, mail your answers to Pittsburgh Senior News Contest, 8280 Tanglewood Rd., 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 Pittsburgh Senior News.
ur library,
Address______________________________________________ _____________________________________________________ Phone____________________________Age________________
Enjoy our library, a brand new,
Move-in to
Rivermont SENIOR APARTMENTS
Riverview Manor 1500 LeTort St., Pittsburgh, PA 15212 • (412) 734-0741 a brand new, Dave Carlton • (Property Manager)
965 Rivermont Dr., Pittsburgh, 965 Rivermont Drive PA 15207
Rent is based on income.
outdoor courtyard 965 Rivermont Drive, Pittsburgh
Rivermont designed for independent seniors. and much more! beautifulwas apartment. Prices start as low as $825 per month and beautiful apartment. range from 617 to 975 square feet.
Age 62 or Mobility Impaired An affiliate of National Church Residences NOW TAKING APPLICATIONS
Rivermont
Affordable RetirementSENIOR Living APARTMENTS “A Gracious Experience” 965 Rivermont Drive, Pittsburgh
Amenities include:
Efficiencies available immediately to qualified individuals.
• Close to public transportation • Air conditioning Rivermont SENIOR APARTMENTS • All utilities included • Hot meal provided daily 965 Rivermont Drive, Pittsburgh Rivermont • Off-street parking • On site laundry SENIOR APARTMENTS 965 Rivermont Drive, Pittsburgh • Secure entry • 24/7 security
A United Methodist Church Union Facility Income Limits Apply
Parkview Towers SENIOR CITIZEN RETIREMENT LIVING
Open House/Luncheon every Wednesday. Call to RSVP.
Rive SENIOR
965 River
Call (412) 422-6191 for more information.
EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
a bran
beautiful a
December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
Rivermont SENIOR APARTMENTS
beautiful apartment.
965 Rivermont Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15207
a brand new, a brand new,
Affordable, Comfortable Retirement Living
Rivermont SENIOR APARTMENTS
Rivermont SENIOR APARTMENTS
965 Rivermont Drive Pittsburgh, PA 15207
Move-in to common area, For residents 62 years of age or older Pittsburgh, PA 15207 beautiful apartment. Move-in to
courtyard
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Name________________________________________________
CongratulationsMove-in to JerietoPeabody who won last month’s contest. The answers were: 1. Oregon; 2. West Virginia; 3. Connecticut; 4. Arizona; 5. Nevada; 6. Minnesota; 7. Alabama; 8. California; 9. New Hampshire; 10. New Jersey; 11. Florida; 12. Pennsylvania; 13. Alaska; 14. Wisconsin; 15. Utah; 16. Rhode Island; 17. New Mexico; 18. Hawaii.
on area,
uch more!
common area,
_____________
outdoor courtyard
1. keca
111 Caroline Street • Munhall, PA 15120 (412) 461-2993 • www.umcu-parkview.com
Crossword Puzzle
NEW • USED • RENTALS
Stairlifts
answer on page 2
at affordable prices!
• Free In-Home Assessment • No Doctor’s Rx Needed • 12 Month Interest Free Financing with Approved Credit • Emergency Installation Service Available
We carry the leading stairlift manufacturers to meet your needs and budget.
©King Features
DOWN 1 Chorus syllables 2 Nile wader 3 Bump into 4 Colorful crested bird 5 Void 6 Estuary 7 Intricate 8 Birdlike 9 “Impressive!” 10 Jurist Lance 11 Mafia boss 19 Hwys. 21 Predetermine 23 Skirt style 24 Wry Bombeck 25 Stagger 26 “Shane” star 27 “Oops!” 28 Crashes 32 Little fish 33 Type of diving 35 Delta’s one-time rival 36 Mac alternatives 38 Like a gorilla 39 Himalayan land 42 Hot dog holder 43 Capri, e.g. 44 Low digits 45 Fellow 46 “If you ask me,” in a text 48 Observe
(412) 260-7469 HIC PA079038
Gable Ridge
8000 Beacon Hill Dr., Wilkinsburg, PA 15221 62 and Older u Community/Game Room u Controlled Access u Elevator u Emergency Call System u Library u One-Bedroom Floor Plan u On-Site Laundry Facility u Service Coordinator u Utility Allowance
(412) 241-9474 Alia Carter, Senior Manager Rent is based on income. HUD subsidized.
December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
ACROSS 1 Branch 5 Rainbow shape 8 Eager 12 Genesis shepherd 13 Life story 14 Presidential power 15 Stead 16 Candied veggie 17 Press agent? 18 Fall flowers 20 Use a rosary 22 “The Catcher in the Rye” author 26 “Star Wars” director 29 Table support 30 Tram load 31 “Hey, sailor!” 32 Half dozen 33 Stadium top 34 100 cts. 35 Light brown 36 Bicycle part 37 Author of “Lady Chatterley’s Lover” 40 Apple tablet 41 — de corps 45 Calf-length 47 AOL, for one 49 Mediocre 50 Iowa city 51 PBS funder 52 Vogue rival 53 Snack 54 Sushi fish 55 Pub orders
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IW Abel Place
614 Lincoln Ave. Millvale, PA 15209
Lawrenceville
2639 Perrysville Avenue
Now accepting applications for 1-bedroom apartments. Eligibility: 62 years or older. • HUD subsidized rent based on income • Equipped kitchen, w/w carpet, air conditioning, laundry facilities, and community room.
• Newly Renovated • Now accepting applications for studio and one-bedroom apartments • Eligibility: 62 years old or in need of features of an accessible unit • Section 8 certified • Equipped kitchen, W/W carpet, A/C, FREE laundry facilities, lounge area, community room and balconies. • Equal Housing Opportunity
Call 412-687-7120 iwabel@ehdoc.org
steelworkers@ehdoc.org
• Affordable housing for seniors 62 years of age and older. • HUD subsidized rent based on income • Income limitations apply. Come see all that we have to offer!
Call (412) 821-4474
1 bedroom and efficiency units. • Sweetbriar Place is designed for adults 62+ years old and mobility impaired persons 18+ years old. • HUD guidelines apply. • Rent based on income. • Priority is given to extremely low income households. • Beautiful view. • Spacious apartments on bus line. Call or stop by for a tour today. Sweetbriar Place 211 Sweetbriar Street Pittsburgh, PA 15211 srcare.org/sweetbriar-place
(412) 431-0211
Brinton Towers Apartments • One Bedroom and Large Efficiency Apartments • Wall to Wall Carpeting • Public Transportation at Door • Equipped Kitchen ‑ Frost-free Refrigerator • Community Room ‑ Lounge Areas ‑ Billiard Room
493 Castle Shannon Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15234
Affordable housing for seniors age 62 and older or mobility impaired HUD subsidized onebedroom apartments
Call 412-563-6566 or visit www.baptisthomes.org
Lynn Williams Apartments 3710 Brighton Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15212
• Card Entry Access ‑ Intercom System
• Affordable housing for seniors
• Lunch Program Available • Off Street Parking
62 years of age and older.
• 24 Hour Emergency Maintenance Service • Hair Salon • Residents 55 plus or Disabled/Handicapped
• HUD subsidized rent based on income
Don’t wait,
• Income limitations apply.
call today! (412) 824-9000
Come see all that we have to offer!
December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
3000 Locust St., Pittsburgh, PA 15221 Hours: Mon-Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Alexis Manor, Inc. Housing for Seniors (62 or older) or Mobility Impaired (18 or older)
HUD subsidized rent based on income 1 Bedroom Apartments Now Accepting Applications • Elevator Building • On-Site Parking • On-Site Management 10100 Old Perry Highway Wexford, PA 15090
(724) 935-7411
Call (412) 321-2460
Pennley Commons
• Laundry Facilities on Each Floor • Air Conditioning
• Affordable Living ‑ Rent Based on Income
Elderly Hi-Rise
East Liberty -
Mt. Washington
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Steelworkers Tower
Lloyd McBride Court
Call (412) 734-4229
ORMSBY MANOR APARTMENTS (Mt. Oliver)
RENT-ASSISTED HOUSING PERSONS AGE 62 or OLDER 1 bedroom apartments • equipped kitchen • A/C • community room • laundry room • and much more! NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS PLEASE CALL: (412) 829-3910 or (800) 238-7555
Mon.-Fri. 9 am to 5 pm EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
Senior Apartment Accepting Applications One bedroom, full appliances, W/W, A/C, off street parking Income limits apply Call (412) 362-2040 or stop by the Management office at 5601 Penn Avenue Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Forest Hills Senior Apartments 2111 Ardmore Boulevard, Pittsburgh, PA 15221 RENT ASSISTED HOUSING PERSONS AGED 62 OR OLDER 1 BEDROOM APARTMENTS
Equipped Kitchen, W/W Carpeting, A/C, Window Coverings, Community Room, Laundry Facility, Secure Intercom Access, Public Transportation, Walk-In Shower
Income Limits Apply 1 (800) 238-7555
Equal Housing Opportunity
Milliones Manor Apartments 2827 Bedford Avenue Pittsburgh, PA 15219 NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS for one and two bedroom units • All household members must be 62 years of age or older. • Income restrictions apply. • Section 8 vouchers and certifications accepted.
EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
For more details call (412) 681-6350
Uptown Ebenezer Tower Apartments
Arch Court Apartments
420 Dinwiddie Street, Pgh, PA. 15219 62 Years or Older or Mobility Impaired • 1 Bedroom Apartments • W/W Carpet • Balcony • Card Entry Access Intercom TV System • Central Air and Heat • Utilities Included • Equipped Kitchen • Laundry Facilities on Each Floor • 24 Hour Emergency Maintenance • Public Transportation at Corner
Income Limits Apply 1 Person: $22,050 2 Persons: $25,200
(412) 391-9465
West Lake APARTMENTS
1310 Arch St. Pittsburgh, PA 15212 Senior Subsidized Apartments Must be 62 Years or older Accepting Applications • 1 Bedroom • Equipped Kitchens • Carpeting • A/C • Laundry Facilities • Community Room • Security Building • Outdoor Courtyard Close to Transportation
Call (412) 231-4121
Visit our website at pittsburghseniornews.com
1015 Crucible St. West End, PA 15220
RENT-ASSISTED HOUSING PERSONS AGE 62 or OLDER 1 bedroom apartments • equipped kitchen • A/C • community room • laundry room • and much more! NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS CALL: (412) 829-3910 Mon.-Fri. 9 am to 5 pm EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
View the most recent issues of • Pittsburgh Senior News • Beaver County Senior News • Butler County Senior News • Allegheny County Senior Resource Guide •Beaver County Senior Resource Guide •Butler County Senior Resource Guide
Entertainers and Speakers Entertainment: Christmas (Mrs. Claus), St. Patrick’s (Leprechaun), Patriotic, Hawaiian Luau, Ethnic (Italian, Mexican, etc.) Strolling Mandolin, Sing-a-Long, Affordable! (412) 731-1322. Eddie Ace Magician Fun Magic Affordable (412) 462-1557. Jimmy’ Sapienza’s fun musical duo, “Two Guys Named Moe” deliver a lively and fun 50 minute show made just for seniors! Email jimmy. sapienza@verizon.net or call (412) 916-6055. Sing-along fun: piano, flute, vocals. holiday themed shows: Valentines, St. Patricks, patriotic and Christmas. Includes song books. Cara (412) 901-2007. Frankie Capri presents The Dean Martin, Elvis, Frank Sinatra, Tribute Variety Show. (412) 469-2299. Ray Ryan. Solo ragtime piano and dance trio. (412) 331-8368. Master Magician Chuck Caputo. Live bunnies/birds. Reasonable. (412) 825-0822. Bobby Shawn. Singer-entertainer. (724) 745-3064; bobbyshawn.com. Patti Eberle. Comedy, variety and musical fun. (412) 561-7161. Speakers Available: JOY LIGHTS MERRY ORNAMENTS
CANDLES CHRISTMAS EVERGREEN HANUKKAH
SANTA SLEDDING SNOW WINTER
Senior Lifestyle Connections. Exploring senior living options. Stan (724) 787-7030. Pittsburgh Computer Help. Tech lectures and instruction. Amy (412) 589-9573. Vector Security has speakers available for your group. Jack (800) 756-9161.
Comedy Corner
The Rapp Funeral Home, Inc.
Prepare for Takeoff My seatmate on a recent flight was a woman. Ever the charmer, I asked, “Does the airline charge you extra for sitting next to good-looking men?”
10940 Frankstown Rd., Pittsburgh, PA 15235
“Yes,” she said, “but I wasn’t willing to pay.”
Fax: (412) 241-0312
(412) 241-5415
My collection of vintage kitchen utensils includes one whose intended purpose was always a mystery. It looks like a cross between a metal slotted spoon and a spatula, so I use it as both. When not in use, it is prominently displayed in a decorative ceramic utensil caddy in my kitchen. The mystery of the spoon/spatula was recently solved when I found one in its original packaging at a rummage sale.
Bernadette L. Rose, Supervisor Are you experiencing blurred vision, glare while driving, or difficulty reading? Perhaps you have cataracts? Have an evaluation by our fellowship trained cataract surgeon. State of the art, NO STITCH, NO NEEDLE surgery
It’s a pooper-scooper. Odd Gift I’ve never understood the concept of the gift certificate, because for the same 50 bucks, my friend could’ve gotten me 50 bucks.
www.pitteye2020.com Call for an appointment today! Dr. Thomas F. Findlan
(412) 382-7155
1675 State Route 51 Jefferson Hills, PA 15025
December 2017 • Pittsburgh Senior News
The Mystery Kitchen Utensil…
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