Butler County Senior News
September 2017 Volume 11, Number 12
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Community HealthChoices: What you need to know now This is the first in a two-part series about Community HealthChoices. Big changes are coming for people who receive long-term care services through Medicaid—either in their home or in a nursing home—and for people who have both Medicare and Medicaid. A new program called Community HealthChoices starts in 14 counties in southwestern Pennsylvania on January 1, 2018.
When Community HealthChoices starts, the following people will get their Medicaid coverage and long-term care coverage through managed care plans: 1) Those who are in a nursing home paid for by Medicaid. 2) Those in the Aging Waiver or any of the following Waivers: Attendant Care, CommCare and Independence. People in the OBRA Waiver may be impacted
depending on their level of care. 3) Those with both Medicare and Medicaid, unless they are eligible for services through the Office of Developmental Programs because they have an Intellectual Disability or Autism. Community HealthChoices will not impact people in the LIFE Program. LIFE will Continued on page 6
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Publisher’s Corner Owner/Publisher: Lynn Webster Editor: Gina Mazza Art Director: Shantessa Burnfield Sales Executive: Wallace Webster
ON SITE SURGICAL CENTER
Big changes are coming for people who receive longterm care services through Medicaid, and for people who have both Medicare and Medicaid. Read our cover story to learn about a new program called Community HealthChoices, which begins January 1, 2018. Enjoy the Labor Day weekend, everyone!
Lynn Webster
Photographer: Chuck LeClaire
• No stitch, no patch cataract surgery at adjacent surgical center • Laser surgery for secondary cataracts, diabetes and glaucoma • Facial rejuvenation treatments, including Botox®, dermal fillers and eyelash enhancement • Complex retinal care with Drs. Hoffman, Rosenberg, and Kondapalli • Eye Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery with Dr. Randall Beatty
Printing Company: Knepper Press Contributing Writers: Brittany Buzzelli Gina Mazza C.A. Balouris, M.D.
Comprehensive Retinal Services are available at Balouris Eye Center, PC. Drs. Hoffman, Rosenberg, and Kondapalli of Everett & Hurite Ophthalmic Association provide complex retinal care in our office. They treat all conditions affecting the retina including macular degeneration, retinal detachment, and advanced diabetic retinopathy.
Melissa A. DeRenzo, M.D.
102 Technology Dr.•Butler•724-482-0090•www.BalourisEyeCenter.com
Intern: Kara Boyle Proofreader: Jeff Makkos Volume 11, Number 12 Published monthly by Pittsburgh Senior News, Inc. for Butler County Senior News P. O. Box 11126 Pittsburgh, PA 15237 (412) 760-5914
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September 2017 • Butler County Senior News
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View the most recent issues of • Butler County Senior News • Pittsburgh Senior News • Beaver County Senior News •Butler County Senior Resource Guide • Allegheny County Senior Resource Guide •Beaver County Senior Resource Guide
Crossword Puzzle Answer (See page 18)
Live Independently…Not Alone Medical help at the push of a button. Get medical help in an emergency at the push of a button with the Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) from Vector Security®.
Butler County Senior News is distributed monthly in the Butler County area. Copy right 2017 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.
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In Memory of John A. Hogan, Sr. Carmella M. Hogan Michael J. Hogan, Sr. Wayne Hogan
A bus trip to Washington, DC to visit the war memorials, along with the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns in Arlington Cemetery will take place October 26. This is a one day trip leaving Beaver at 5:30 a.m. and returning about 10 p.m. with pick up points in Greentree and Monroeville. Meals are provided as well as snacks and drinks. A nurse is on the bus and wheelchairs are available. The trip is open to all veterans with service prior to May 7, 1975 with seat priority going to World War II and Korean veterans. For more information and reservations, call (724) 709-3614. Donations are gratefully accepted to keep the trips free to all veterans. Checks payable to Veterans Bus Trips may be mailed to Wesbanco, 701 Corporation St., Beaver, PA 15009, attention Heather. BCSN
Heritage Elder Law & Estate Planning, LLC Do you have an IRA? If you are a baby boomer, the chances are high that a significant portion of any investments you may own is likely held in either an IRA, 401K or other tax qualified investment account. These accounts present interesting estate planning considerations.
Wiffle ball tournament Join the Butler Radio Network and The Rock Station for a benefit wiffle ball tournament for the vets September 16 at Beacon Hotel, 231 Beacon Rd., Renfrew. Cost is $60 per six person co-ed team. There will be raffles and a basket auction throughout the tournament. All proceeds will benefit the It’s About the Warrior Foundation, which helps local veterans. Call (724) 283-1500 or visit 977rocks.com/wiffle-ball. BCSN
Jeffrey D. Banner, Owner Heritage Elder Law
First, it is not uncommon for children receiving an inherited IRA to request a lump sum distribution upon their parent’s death. This election subjects the entire retirement account to income tax in one year resulting in very high income tax burden.
Alternatively, a more prudent option is for the child to receive the account as an inherited IRA, which will allow them to draw down the money over time, while deferring and minimizing the income tax burden. Working with the proper advisors can ensure that these elections are made appropriately. Another hot topic regarding IRAs is the issue of creditor protection. One of the little discussed qualities of an IRA is that it has asset protection qualities in the event of a bankruptcy or creditor issue. Unfortunately, a recent Supreme Court decision held that inherited IRAs (IRAs inherited by children after their parent’s death) are no longer given creditor protection. Thus, if your child inherits your IRA and then becomes subject to a lawsuit or a divorce, that IRA is potentially subject to the creditor action. Accordingly, many baby boomers should consider leaving IRA inheritances to trusts to benefit their children, rather than to children outright. If carefully done, this can be accomplished with no negative tax ramifications and can protect assets from your children’s’ creditors and predators.
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.
Like all estate planning issues, this strategy is complicated and competent legal and financial advice should be obtained prior to making any decisions. To find out more, consider attending a FREE educational workshop presented by Heritage Elder Law & Estate Planning, LLC. Call (724) 841-0004 or visit our website at HeritageElderLaw.com for Workshop dates, times, locations or to RSVP.
September 2017 • Butler County Senior News
Veterans invited to join in free bus trip to Washington, DC
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Home from the Hospital? What’s Next?
It can be overwhelming to remember all of the things you need to do when you get home from the hospital. To help make this easier for you and your family or caregiver, here are things you can take care of after a recent hospital discharge: After you are discharged from the hospital:
1. Keep your discharge instructions.
• Take these with you to the doctor.
• If you have one, show them to the visiting nurse.
• Tell your caregiver about them.
2. Make sure you understand your medicines.
• Ask when to take it and how much to take.
• Ask what you should do with any medicine you were taking before you went to the hospital.
• Ask your doctor, visiting nurse, pharmacist or care manager to explain what you should be taking.
3. Always keep a list of your medicines.
4. See your doctor.
• Make sure the list is current.
• Make and keep appointments with your primary care physician (PCP) and any specialists. The doctors’ names and when to make an appointment should be listed on your discharge instructions. If the hospital does not make an appointment for you before leaving, make sure you call when you get home. September 2017 • Butler County Senior News
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• Write down your questions so you don’t forget them.
5. Make sure you have a ride to the doctor.
• A family member, friend or caregiver can help you. Many hospitals, or health insurance plans can also provide referrals to transportation programs if you need them. Call your insurer to make arrangements before you are discharged.
6. Ask for help.
• Having family, friends or a caregiver help with setting up your medicines or reminding you of doctors’ appointments can also be helpful.
7. Call your PCP if you have questions.
• Your PCP is there to help you get better and stay healthy.
• Your PCP will work with all your doctors so they understand all your medical needs.
A hospital discharge nurse will meet with you while you are still in the hospital to answer any questions you may have, as well as remind you to make a follow-up doctor’s appointment.
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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: 1-855-847-6380 (TTY: 711). ATENCIÓN: Si usted habla español, tenemos servicios de asistencia lingüística disponibles para usted sin costo alguno. Llame al PA: 1-800-685-5209, OH: 1-888-447-4505, NC: 1-855-847-6430, KY: 1-855-847-6380 (TTY: 711). 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_1033 Accepted
September 2017 • Butler County Senior News
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Community HealthChoices: What you need to know now Continued from page 1
continue to exist as an alternative option for those ages 55 and older who need long-term care. What’s changing under Community HealthChoices? Community HealthChoices (CHC) will affect people in different ways. This article focuses on how it will affect people ages 60 and older who fall into one of the three target groups noted above. Primarily, CHC changes the way these groups of people get their Medicaid coverage. For people in nursing homes and Aging Waiver, it changes who pays for their long-term care services. Those going into Community HealthChoices will receive details describing the program by mail, including enrollment packets that will outline available plan choices and how to enroll in a plan. People with both Medicare and Medicaid Most people going into Community HealthChoices have Medicare in addition to their Medicaid coverage. If this is true for you, please know that Community HealthChoices will not change your Medicare coverage or your Medicare choices. It will only change your secondary Medicaid coverage.
September 2017 • Butler County Senior News
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You can still get your Medicare through Original Medicare (using the red, white and blue card) or a Medicare Advantage plan (Medicare managed care). Medicare will still pay first and cover the vast majority of healthcare services you get. Also, Medicare Part D will continue to pay for your prescription drugs, and you will have full Extra Help so that you pay only small co-pays for your prescription drugs. You will need to choose and enroll into a CHC plan later this fall. If you do not make a plan choice, one will be chosen for you.
Nursing home residents If you are in a nursing home being paid for by Medicaid, you pay the nursing home the “patient pay amount” set by your local County Assistance Office. Medicaid covers the rest of your nursing home bill. You also get Medicaid health insurance through an ACCESS card. When Community HealthChoices starts, you will need to pick a CHC plan. After January 1, this plan will pay the nursing home for your care. You will continue to pay your patient pay amount. Your CHC plan will also replace your ACCESS card as your Medicaid health insurance. If you do not join a plan on your own, one will be chosen for you. Please note that if you are in a nursing home on January 1 when CHC starts, you have the right to remain in that nursing home as long as you want. No matter what Community HealthChoices plan you choose, your plan must pay the nursing home for your care whether or not the nursing home is in your CHC plan’s network. Community HealthChoices will not change your Medicare or any other health insurance you have. People in the Aging Waiver Program
When Community HealthChoices starts in January, your CHC plan’s identification card will replace your ACCESS card as your secondary insurance. You will need to show both your Medicare card and your CHC plan card when you get health care services. Your CHC plan will cover some services that your Medicare may not, such as dental care.
If you are in the Aging Waiver, you also have Medicaid health insurance through the ACCESS card. You use your ACCESS card when you get healthcare services. The Aging Waiver pays for the long-term care services you get at home. You work with a service coordinator to develop a service plan that details what services will be paid for by the Waiver. You can choose to get those services from any provider enrolled in the Aging Waiver. For certain services, you can use the “consumer-directed model” where you, or your representative, can choose to hire and supervise the person who helps you.
If you also get long term care services in a nursing home or at home through a Waiver, read on for more information about how Community HealthChoices will impact you.
When Community HealthChoices starts, you will have to enroll into a CHC managed care plan. If you do not make a choice, one will be chosen for you.
Community HealthChoices will not change your Medicare or any other health insurance you have. For more information People who have questions about Community HealthChoices can contact the Pennsylvania Health Law Project Helpline at (800) 274-3258. In October issue of Butler County Senior News, we will focus on choosing and enrolling into a Community HealthChoices plan. BCSN This article was written by the PA Health Law Project, which provides free legal help to older adults with limited income. PHLP’s Helpline number is (800) 274-3258. To learn more, visit phlp.org. PHAN offers free “community conversations” about longterm care in Pennsylvania The Pennsylvania Health Access Network (PHAN) is inviting the public to a series of free community events focused on long-term care.
“It’s important that the people responsible for providing coverage and care to seniors have a clear picture of what they need to feel good, stay connected to the community, and live independently,” says PHAN’s consumer engagement manager Erin Ninehouser. “We invites you to share your experiences and ideas for improving long-term care as we work to ensure that the way our state provides these vital services to seniors and people with disabilities actually meets the everyday needs people have.” This is a critically important time for these conversations, as Pennsylvania embarks on a major overhaul of how long-term services and supports are provided. Community HealthChoices—the state’s new managed care system that will serve Pennsylvanians with both Medicare and Medicaid and those currently receiving long-term services and supports through the Office of Long-Term Living—begins January 1, 2018 in southwestern Pennsylvania. Attendees at the community events will have an opportunity to learn about this new program, how it works, what their options for coverage will be, and where to turn locally for one-on-one help with getting services. There will be a meeting at 2:30 p.m. September 12 at Butler Area Public Library, 218 N. McKean St., Butler. Light refreshments will be served. Reservations are helpful but not necessary. To learn more, contact Erin Ninehouser at (412) 863-1047 or erin@pahealthaccess.org.
September 2017 • Butler County Senior News
After January 1, your CHC plan will provide your Medicaid coverage and pay for your Waiver services. You will need to use your CHC plan identification card, instead of your ACCESS card, when you get healthcare. You can continue to use the consumer-directed model under the new program.
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Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Senior Express
Mysteries of Medicare: Time to review your Medicare coverage By Brittany Buzzelli Community Liaison/APPRISE Coordinator Butler County Area Agency on Aging For Butler County Senior News
I
f you are on Medicare and have a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C), or Medicare Prescription Drug Plan (Part D), you have an opportunity to change your coverage during this year’s Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), which runs October 15 through December 7. Any coverage change you make during this period would go into effect January 1, 2018. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has reviewed insurance company proposals for 2018 and as of October 1, new information on these CMS approved products will be available to beneficiaries for comparison.
September 2017 • Butler County Senior News
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Beneficiaries will also soon receive their Annual Notice of Change for their current plans. This document provides details on premium changes, co-pay changes and formulary (drug tiers and coverage) changes. It is critical to review any changes to make sure that the medications you take will continue to be covered by your insurance plan. Medicare Advantage beneficiaries can also expect to receive Annual Notices of Change regarding their HMO/PPO plans. In addition to reviewing details on premium, co-pay and formulary changes, Medicare Advantage beneficiaries must also review that their
Photo taken from depositphotos.com.
chosen doctors and hospitals will continue to belong to their plan’s network in 2018. Supplemental plans (also known as Medigap Policies) are not affected by the Annual Open Enrollment Period. Their premiums depend on approval by the Pennsylvania Department of Insurance. If your rate increases, you may or may not be able to change, and depending on your particular supplement and health status, you may be subject to medical underwriting should you chose to change your Medigap coverage. If you are a low-income Medicare beneficiary, and do not currently receive any Medicare Savings or Extra
September 2017 • Butler County Senior News
Help Program subsidies, you may be eligible for assistance with your plan premiums and out-of-pocket Medicare costs through various State and Federal Medicare Savings and Low-Income Subsidy and PACE programs. APPRISE counselors can help beneficiaries determine if they are eligible and provide application assistance for these Medicare cost savings programs. Medicare Annual Open Enrollment: Five things you need to do Routines help to keep us focused, organized and healthy; however, if your health routine does not include preparing for Medicare’s Annual Open Enrollment Period, now is the time to kickstart a new healthy habit.
Butler County Area Agency on Aging
If you have Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) or a Medicare Drug Plan (Part D), the upcoming Medicare Open Enrollment Period (October 15 through December 7) is the time you can make changes to your coverage. Even if you are happy with your current coverage, you may find coverage options that are a better fit for your budget or health needs. In most cases, if you choose not to make changes to your coverage during Medicare’s Annual Fall Open Enrollment Period, you will most likely have to wait a full year before you can make changes to your plan. These are a few easy ways to get a jumpstart on your benefit options for Medicare’s Annual Fall Open Enrollment Period. For more information, or to set up an appointment for Medicare’s Annual Open Enrollment Period, contact APPRISE through the Butler County Area Agency on Aging at (724) 282–3008 or contact Medicare directly at (800) 633-4227. BCSN The Butler County APPRISE Program will be conducting Medicare Open Enrollment Period Plan Comparison Appointments from October 15 through December 7 at the Butler County Area Agency on Aging offices, located at 111 Sunnyview Circle, Suite 101 in Butler, and will also be holding satellite appointments on specific days/times at the Cranberry Township Senior Center, 2525 Rochester Road, Cranberry Township. Plan reviews for both location are by appointment only and must be made in advance by contacting the Area Agency on Aging Apprise Program at (724) 282–3008, or by email request to bbuzzell@co.butler.pa.us.
Senior Express
Here are five important things that every Medicare beneficiary can do to get in the Medicare Annual Open Enrollment Period routine. Review your plan notice. Be sure to read any notices from your Medicare plan about changes for your 2018 coverage, especially your “Annual Notice of Change” letter. Look at your plan’s information to make sure your prescription medications are still covered and that your preferred doctors and specialists are still within the plan’s network. Think about what matters most to you. Medicare health and prescription drug plans change each year and so can your health needs. Do you need a new primary care doctor? Does your network include the specialist you want for an upcoming surgery? Is your new medication covered by your current prescription drug plan? Does another plan offer the same benefits at a lower cost? Take stock of your health status and determine if you need to make a change. Find out if you qualify for help paying for your Medicare premiums. Learn about programs in Pennsylvania that help with the cost of Medicare premiums, Medicare Part A and Part B coinsurance, deductibles, co-payments and Medicare prescription drug coverage costs. For more information on whether you may qualify for a Medicare Savings Program, Medicaid, Social Security’s Extra Help with Prescription Drugs Program, or Pennsylvania’s PACE/PACENET Programs contact the APPRISE Program at the Area Agency on Aging by calling (724) 282–3008 for a benefit screening. Shop for plans that meet your needs and fit your budget. Beginning October 1, you can use Medicare’s plan finder tool online at medicare.gov/ find-a-plan to see what other plans are offered in Butler County. Check your plan’s start rating before you enroll. Medicare’s Plan Finder Tool has been updated with 2018 Star Ratings for Medicare health and prescription drug plans. Plans are given an overall quality rating on a 1 to 5 star scale, with 1 star representing poor performance and 5 stars representing excellent performance. Use the Star Ratings to compare the quality of health and drug plans being offered. It is important to note that there are currently no 5 star plans in Pennsylvania.
September 2017 • Butler County Senior News
September 2017 • Butler County Senior News
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Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Senior Express
The American Red Cross installs free smoke alarms in The American Red Cross area by appointment Thehomes American Redalarms Crossin installs free smoke installs freeFire smoke alarms in areaHome homes byCampaign appointment areaare homes by appointment Alarms provided free of charge as
September 2017 • Butler County Senior News
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Fire Campaign part of a Home five-year Red Cross initiative to Home Fire Campaign Alarmsthe arenumber provided of fire charge as reduce offree home related Alarms provided free of charge asto part ofdeaths a are five-year Red Cross initiative and injuries by 25% part of athe five-year Red Crossfire initiative to reduce number of home related reducedeaths the number of home fire related and injuries by 25% To Arrange for a Smoke Alarm deaths and injuries by 25% Please call 724-431-6368 to register To Arrange for a Smoke Alarm To Arrange for a SmoketoAlarm Please call 724-431-6368 register Please call 724-431-6368 to register American Red Cross Western Pennsylvania Region
September 2017 • Butler County Senior News
Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Senior Express
Senior Center FREE Flu shots available to Butler County seniors, age 60 and older Clinic sponsored by St. Barnabas Health System Butler Senior Center Tanglewood Monday, September 11th 10:30 A.M.—12 P.M. Cranberry Twp Senior Center Cranberry Twp Municipal Building Tuesday, September 12th 10:30 A.M.—12 P.M. Mars Senior Center Penn—Mar Plaza Wednesday, September 13th 10:30 A.M.—12 P.M. Evans City Senior Center Ritzert Hall Thursday, September 14th 11:15 A.M—12 P.M. Chicora Senior Center Chicora Moose Lodge Basement Tuesday, September 19th 11:15 A.M.—12 P.M.
Mt. Chestnut Senior Center Mt. Chestnut Presbyterian Church Monday, September 18th 11:15 A.M.—12 P.M. South East Senior Center Winfield VFD, Cabot Tuesday, September 26th 11:15 A.M.—12 P.M. Slippery Rock Senior Center Slippery Rock Twp. Building Wednesday, September 27th 11:15 A.M.—12 P.M.
September 2017 • Butler County Senior News
September 2017 • Butler County Senior News
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Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Senior Express
Senior Center events _ Butler Senior Center, 10 Austin Ave., (located in Tanglewood Senior Center), Lyndora, offers the following events: Pre-Labor Day picnic at 10:30 a.m. September 1; birthday party September 7; Grandparents Day appreciation at 10:30 a.m. September 8; flu shots from 10:30 a.m. to noon and technology 101 class at 11:30 a.m. September 11; leadership council meeting at 11:30 a.m. September 14; tastes of fall social at 10:30 a.m. September 18; Seniors for Safe Driving from noon to 4 p.m. and 500 card party from 6 to 9 p.m. September 19; social and mental health program at 11:30 a.m. September 20; bingo blessing box at 10 a.m. September 22; and wellness breakfast at 9:30 a.m. September 26. Call (724) 285-5392. _ Chicora Senior Center, lower level of Moose Hall, 117 West Slippery Rock St., offers the following events: bingo at 10 a.m. and birthday party September 7; stroke support at 10 a.m., blood pressure at 10:30 a.m. and Wheel of Fortune at 11 a.m. September 12; bingo at 10 a.m. September 14; leadership meeting at 10 a.m., food nutrition program at 11 a.m. and flu shots from 11:15 a.m. to noon September 19; bingo from 9 to 10:30 a.m. September 21; UPMC exercise for hip and knee replacement at 11 a.m. September 26; and bingo at 10 a.m. September 28. The center is open from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. Call (724) 445-2551.
September 2017 • Butler County Senior News
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_ Cranberry Senior Center, Municipal Building, Rochester Rd., offers the following events: open conversation with an estate attorney at 11 a.m. and birthday celebration September 7; flu shots from 10:30 a.m. to noon September 12; mind matters at 10:30 a.m. September 13; mystery dinner theater from 4 to 7 p.m. September 19, cost is $10; open house September 21; ladies night out at the Mars Senior Center from 4 to 7 p.m. September 26; and leadership meeting at 10:30 a.m. September 28. 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: birthday celebration September 7; drum circle at 1 p.m. September 13; flu shots from 11:15 a.m. to noon, leadership meeting at 1 p.m. and blood pressure screening September 14; humor for health at 12:30 p.m. and ice cream sundaes September 20; and senior center month celebration September 21. The center is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Call (724) 538-9414. September 2017 • Butler County Senior News
_ Mars Senior Center, Penn Mar Plaza, Gilkey Dr., offers the following activities: Labor Day party September 1; Klondikes for $1 September 5; scams and protecting seniors at 1 p.m. and birthday celebration September 7; flu shots from 10:30 a.m. to noon September 13; movie day at 1 p.m. September 19; blood pressure at 10:45 a.m. and senior center month celebration September 21; leadership meeting at noon and Yellow Dot and Car Fit program at 1 p.m. September 28; and ladies night out from 4 to 7 p.m. September 28, cost is $5. 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: picnic with games and activities September 5; blood pressure screening at 11:30 a.m. and birthday celebration September 7; reptile program at 10:15 a.m. and leadership meeting at 12:45 p.m. September 11; flu shots from 11:15 a.m. to noon September 18; and bingo at 10:15 a.m. September 25. 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: leadership meeting at 11 a.m. September 6; Grandparents Day appreciation at 10:30 a.m. and birthday party at 12:30 p.m. September 7; autumn craft at 10:30 a.m. September 12; blood pressure at 10:30 a.m. September 14; taste of autumn social at 10:30 a.m. and social and mental health at 12:30 p.m. September 19; senior center day with grocery bingo at 11 a.m. September 21; and wellness Wednesday at 9 a.m. and flu shots from 11 a.m. to noon September 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: Silver Saints exercise at 10 a.m. and extra dessert day at 11:30 a.m. September 5; Silver Saints exercise at 10 a.m. and birthday celebration September 7; Rice Krispie treats at 10 a.m. September 19; leadership meeting at 10 a.m. and senior center month September 21; and flu shots from 11:15 a.m. to noon September 26. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Call (724) 352-2036. _ West Sunbury Senior Center, West Sunbury Presbyterian Church, hours are from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday and Friday. Lunches are provided. Call (724) 637-2959. BCSN
Butler County Area Agency on Aging September Menu for senior centers
Senior Express The Butler County Area Agency on Aging
Serving you:
Friday, September 1: Mushroom Swiss burger, potato salad, baked beans, cookie. Monday, September 4, Labor Day: Closed. Tuesday, September 5: Chicken Parmesan, pasta, tossed salad, peaches. Wednesday, September 6: Club sandwich, cauliflower soup, fruit. Thursday, September 7, Birthday menu: Veal roulade, mashed potatoes, carrots, cupcake. Friday, September 8: Sweet and sour meatballs, rice pilaf, vegetable medley, applesauce. Monday, September 11: Meatball sandwich, redskins, mixed bean medley, fruit. Tuesday, September 12: Roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, peas and carrots, ice cream. Wednesday, September 13: Chef salad, wedding soup, pears.
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
Thursday, September 14: Baked lemon pepper, wild rice, brussel sprouts, apricots. Friday, September 15: Barbecue ribette, sweet potato bites, mixed vegetables, brownie. Monday, September 18: Hot roast beef dinner, whipped potatoes, mixed vegetables, applesauce.
How may we help you? • Community Services for Older Adults and their families • Home and Community Based Services • PDA Waiver Services
Tuesday, September 19: Crab cake, noodles, Italian beans, pears. Wednesday, September 20: Salisbury steak, baked potato, coleslaw, mixed fruit salad. Thursday, September 21: Baked sweet sausage, redskins, green beans, cookie. Friday, September 22: Tuscan chicken, pasta, tossed salad, peaches. Monday, September 25: Meatloaf, mashed potatoes, peas and carrots, sherbet.
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
Tuesday, September 26: Southwestern chicken wrap, vegetable barley soup, apricots.
Office Hours: Monday through Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Wednesday, September 27: Spaghetti and meatballs, tossed salad, pears.
Phone: (724) 282-3008 (888) 367-2434
Thursday, September 28: Hot dog, sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, corn, brownie.
Website: co.butler.pa.us/butler Email: aaainfo@co.butler.pa.us
Friday, September 29: Lemon pepper, baked potato, sweet and sour coleslaw, fruit. September 2017 • Butler County Senior News
September 2017 • Butler County Senior News
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Entertainments and Events • Free production brewery tours are offered from noon to 4 p.m. every Saturday at North Country Production Facility, 111 Arrowhead Dr., Slippery Rock. Park by the back and enter by the Silos. Call (724) 794-2337 or visit northcountrybrewing.com. • Little Italy Days will take place from 5 to 9 p.m. September 1; noon to 9 p.m. September 2 and 3; and noon to 6 p.m. September 4, on Main Street, Butler. There will be food and craft vendors, Italian-themed acts, bocce, kids zone, Miss Italy Butler pageant, Italian Idol contest, grape stomping and more. Call (412) 310-7781 or visit butleritalianfestival.com. • The Greater Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. September 2-4, 9-10, 16-17, and 23-24, at 112 Renaissance Lane, West Newton. Shop the Artists’ Marketplace featuring thousands of
handcrafted wares. Be amazed as jugglers, minstrels, acrobats, and jousting knights fill seven stages with fun entertainment. Parking is free and pets are not allowed. Call (724) 872-1670 or visit pittsburghrenfest.com. • The 32nd annual Saxonburg Festival of the Arts will take place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. September 9 and from noon at 5 p.m. September 10 at Roebling Park, 157 N Rebecca St., Saxonburg. There will be crafts, food, music, art demonstrations and more. Free parking and shuttle available. Visit visitsaxonburgpa.com/site. • The St. Joseph Fall Festival will be held from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. September 10 at St. Joseph Church, 315 Stoney Hollow Rd., Cabot. Dinners are served family style with take-out dinners available. Cost is $12 for adults and $5 for children ages 10 and under. Other activities include a cash raffle,
CREATE MEMORIES AT
LINCOLN PARK September 2017 • Butler County Senior News
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Oct. 6-8, 13-15, and 20-22
JAMES and the GIANT PEACH Jr. Nov. 10-12 and 17-19
• Evans City Oktoberfest will take place on Main St., Evans City, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. September 15; 7 to 8 p.m. September 16; and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. September 17. Festivities include quilt show, crafts, food vendors, games, pancake breakfast, parade, kids tractor pull, fireworks, car cruise, live entertainment and more. Call (724) 538-8320. • The Butler fall festival will take place from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. September 23 on Main Street (Route 8), Diamond Park to Brady St., Downtown Butler. The free festival features regional crafters, children’s activities, food vendors and entertainment. Visit butlerfallfestival. com. BCSN
Minutes from Beaver Valley Mall and I-376 West, Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center is the area’s best family friendly venue for Broadway-style theater, dance performances and special events. With tickets starting at only $15, your experiences at Lincoln Park are sure to be memorable ones.
BRING THE GRANDKIDS!
MARY POPPINS
an old-fashioned country store, bingo, basket raffle, food booth, small games of chance, children’s activities, musical entertainment and more. Call (724) 3522149 or visit sjcabot.org.
HOLIDAY FAVORITES
IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE Dec. 1-3 and 8-10
THE NUTCRACKER Dec. 14-17
724-576-4644 OPT.2 | www.lincolnparkarts.org | MIDLAND, PA
RIVER CITY BRASS
CHRISTMAS BRASSTACULAR Dec. 21
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.
September 2017 • Butler County Senior News
Butler Ambulance Service • 106 First Street Butler, PA 16001 • (724) 283-4385
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Center for Community Resources provides variety of services that help seniors remain independent
G
iven a choice, most seniors would prefer to remain living at home as they age. But doing so oftentimes requires support from the community in terms of care, resources and more. Luckily, a local organization called the Center for Community Resources, Inc.—or, CCR—makes obtaining these resources as easy as possible. “We are committed to making a positive difference in everyday lives by connecting people to a network of supports and services essential for actively learning, working and living in our community,” says Ashlee Hershberger, CCR’s Senior Manager of Programs. “Our goal is to coordinate services for individuals and families seeking information and referral for aging, mental health, intellectual disabilities, substance abuse and other human service needs.
September 2017 • Butler County Senior News
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Susan is a typical example of a senior who benefited from CCR’s help. She had been discharged from a nursing facility back to her home and had a lot of concerns and anxiety about being able to make this transition. Thanks to the services provided through Aging Waiver (see below), which were coordinated through CCR, Susan was able to successfully adjust. In fact, she has been back in her own home for six months now and is doing quite well. She receives personal assistance services, home-delivered meals and had adaptations made in her house to make sure that she felt safe and comfortable living independently. CCR serves as a single point of contact for a variety of aging services, working in collaboration with other human service agencies to identify needs in the community and effectively respond to anyone seeking help. They have three service coordinators and continue to grow the program throughout the counties they serve (a listing is at the end of this article).
Aging, Home and Community-Based Waiver service coordination As part of their coordination of aging services, CCR helps older adults obtain Aging, Home and Community-Based Waiver services. Seniors may be eligible for the Aging Waiver service coordination if they meet the following criteria: 3 Are a resident of Pennsylvania 3 Are a US citizen or a qualified noncitizen 3 60 years of age or older Last year, CCR assisted more than 13,000 individuals in getting the resources they needed. CCR provides help 24 hours, 7 days a week. The assistance is free and confidential. Please be aware that the Pennsylvania Department of Aging will transition to Community Health Choices and a managed care model on January 1, 2018 in 14 counties in southwestern Pennsylvania. The managed care organizations are AmeriHealth, PA Health and Wellness and UPMC. CCR is contracted with each of these to provide service coordination and assist the residents of these counties to receive the supports and services they need to stay in their homes. BCSN The Center for Community Resources is located at 212-214 South Main Street in Butler. CCR provides services in these counties: Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Bedford, Blair, Butler, Cambria, Cameron, Clarion, Clearfield, Crawford, Elk, Erie, Fayette, Forest, Franklin, Fulton, Greene, Huntingdon, Indiana, Jefferson, Lawrence, McKean, Mercer, Potter, Somerset, Venango, Warren, Washington and Westmoreland. To learn more, call (724) 431-3748 or (844) 360-4372. To enroll, call the Independent Enrollment Broker (IEB) at (877) 550-4227.
3 Meet the level of care needs for a skilled nursing facility 3 Meet financial/income eligibility Services that may be available include: * Accessibility Adaptations, Equipment, Technology and Medical Supplies * Adult Daily Living Services * Community Transition Services * Home Delivered Meals * Home Health Services * Non-Medical Transportation Services * Participant-Directed Community Supports * Participant-Directed Goods and Services * Personal Assistance Services * Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) * Respite * Service Coordination * TeleCare * Therapeutic and Counseling Services
Comedy Corner 2 A mom texts, “Hi son, what does IDK, LY, and TTYL mean?” He texts back, “I Don’t Know, Love You, and Talk To You Later.” The mom texts him, “It’s ok, don’t worry about it. I’ll ask your sister, love you too.” 2 In a Catholic school cafeteria, a nun places a note in front of a pile of apples, “Only take one. God is watching.” Further down the line is a pile of cookies. A little boy makes his own note, “Take all you want. God is watching the apples.” 2 A boy asks his father, “Dad, are bugs good to eat?” “That’s disgusting. Don’t talk about things like that over dinner,” the dad replies. After dinner the father asks, “Now, son, what did you want to ask me?” “Oh, nothing,” the boy says. “There was a bug in your soup, but now it’s gone.”
CHESS CLUE MANCALA MONOPOLY
PICTIONARY RISK SCRABBLE YAHTZEE
Live LIFE…At Home
– A Partnership in Caring – LIFE offers comprehensive medical care, adult day services and homecare to help older adults, age 55 and older, live at home. Services include all medical care, prescription coverage, physical therapy, transportation and more. Contact us for assistance in determining your eligibility for the program. You may qualify and not even realize it. 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
Just Ask for VNA
It’s your right to choose the home health and hospice provider you prefer. Ask for VNA.
724-282-6806 Toll-free 877-862-6659 www.lutheranseniorlife.org 154 Hindman Road, Butler, PA 16001
September 2017 • Butler County Senior News
BACKGAMMON BATTLESHIP CANDYLAND CHECKERS
2 A husband and wife were driving through Louisiana. As they approached Natchitoches, they started arguing about the pronunciation of the town. They argued back and forth, then they stopped for lunch. At the counter, the husband asked the blonde waitress, “Before we order, could you please settle an argument for us? Would you please pronounce where we are very slowly?” She leaned over the counter and said, “Burrr-gerrr Kiiing.”
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Crossword Puzzle answer on page 2
Skilled Short & Long-Term Rehabilitation A small, local business providing tender loving care.
©King Features
September 2017 • Butler County Senior News
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ACROSS 1 Soccer star Mia 5 First victim 9 Hotel amenity 12 Location 13 Style 14 Sushi fish 15 Object of a futile chase 17 Mao — -tung 18 Daytona 500 acronym 19 Daphnis’ love 21 While 22 Mackerel relative 24 Skydive 27 Jazzy style 28 Bark 31 “As I see it,” in a text 32 Ram’s mate 33 — Lanka 34 Sharp tooth 36 Free (of) 37 Bartlett, for one 38 Canyon 40 “Greetings!” 41 Repeat verbatim 43 Aerie newborn 47 Dos preceder 48 Relax 51 TGIF part 52 Awestruck 53 — Major 54 “The Raven” writer 55 Physique 56 Abound
DOWN 1 Actress Goldie 2 Met melody 3 “Alice” diner 4 Wild and crazy 5 Latin love 6 Scary cry 7 Mag. staff 8 Bloodsucker 9 Unleash 10 Mexican money 11 Sheltered 16 Cooking fuel 20 Explanation 22 “Holy cow!” 23 Lacked originality 24 Skippy rival 25 Actress Thurman 26 Rikki-Tikki-Tavi is one 27 Floating ice mass 29 Man-mouse link 30 Fragrant tree 35 Understood 37 Eat an entire pizza, say 39 Detox center 40 “2001” computer 41 Witticism 42 Golden rule word 43 Like custard 44 Traditional tales 45 Being, to Brutus 46 Squad 49 In the past 50 Affirmative action?
1172560
724.352.9445 Saxonburg, PA
www.saxonyhealthcenter.org CALL US FOR A PRIVATE CONSULTATION QCF/Saxony Health Center, LLC d/b/a Saxony Health Center. We subscribe to a non-discrimination policy
Are rising rent and utility costs taking too much out of your monthly income?
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NFL-Name the team Name the correct NFL football team next to its city for a chance to win $30 cash. 1 Green Bay, WI.
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10 Baltimore, MD.
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2 Jacksonville, FL
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11 Kansas City, MO.
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3 Pittsburgh, PA.
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12 Indianapolis, IN.
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4 Charlotte, NC.
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13 Cleveland, OH.
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5 Buffalo, NY.
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6 Los Angeles, CA.
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16 Washington, DC.
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8 Tampa Bay, FL.
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To enter, mail your answers to Butler County Senior News Contest, P.O. Box 11126, Pittsburgh, PA 15237. One entry per person. Correct entries will be eligible for our drawing. One winner will be drawn. Entries must be received by the 15th of this month. Answers will be published in the next edition of Butler County Senior News.
Name________________________________________________ Address______________________________________________ _____________________________________________________ Phone____________________________Age________________
Congratulations to Dolores Breen who won last month’s contest. The answers were: 1. Alabama; 2. Pennsylvania; 3. Nebraska; 4. Delaware; 5. Florida; 6. South Dakota; 7. Maine; 8. New York; 9. Wisconsin; 10. Alaska; 11. Connecticut; 12. Georgia; 13. Kansas; 14. Maryland; 15. New Mexico; 16. Texas; 17. Wyoming; 18. Arizona; 19. Mississippi; 20. California; 21. Hawaii.
awesome SENIOR LIVING?
at Chicora Medical Center
724.445.2000 724.353.1531 724.445.3000 Senior Living • Skilled Care • Memory Care • Rehab
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September 2017 • Butler County Senior News
LOOKING FOR
19
New to Medicare? We make it easy.
UPMC for Life makes it easy to get the information and answers you need about Medicare. Visit us online, attend a seminar, or call to speak with a Health Care Concierge for personal help and support with your Medicare plan choice. With plans starting at $0 for your monthly plan premium,* prescription drug coverage, and in-network access to doctors and hospitals you trust — don’t wait, start today.
Speak to a Health Care Concierge toll-free at 1-866-699-4748 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. TTY users should call 1-800-361-2629. Visit us online at www.upmchealthplan.com/medicare Find a seminar near you, call us at the phone number above or visit www.upmchealthplan.com/medicare/learn
*You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B Premium. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply. Benefits, premiums, and copayments may change on January 1 of each year. 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. UPMC Health Plan1 complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. 1 UPMC Health Plan is the marketing name used to refer to the following companies, which are licensed to issue individual and group health insurance products or which provide third party administration services for group health plans: UPMC Health Network Inc., UPMC Health Options Inc., UPMC Health Coverage Inc., UPMC Health Plan Inc., UPMC Health Benefits Inc., UPMC for You Inc., and/or UPMC Benefit Management Services Inc. ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-877-381-3765 (TTY: 1-800-361-2629). 注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您可以免費獲得語言援助服務。請致電 1-877-381-3765（TTY 1-800-361-262) 。 Y0069_17_1547 Accepted
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