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Mary Blandino and Paula Larsen, A couple of real life superstars

October 2015 Vol 29 No. 10

COMPLIMENTARY

POMMER: Milking parlors need the workers

page 3A

OLSON:

EDITORIALS

Where there’s a will or way

page 11A

STATE CAPITOL COMMENT

NEMOVITZ:

By Matt Pommer

Technology Ills

page 6A

SECTION B:

Home Health MOVING IN THE Care Directory RIGHT DIRECTION

page 20B By Bruce Nemovitz

MONEY SENSE

By Karen Ellenbecker & Julie Ellenbecker -Lipsky

Mary Blandino today, a star Senior Olympic athlete, a coach, a referee and a bit of everything.

EDITORI

Paula Larsen and her partner in life, Jim Reiher, a Senior Olympic athlete also, as their two colorful shirts indicate.

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By Jack Pearson “Planting Tomorrow’s In the headline above, the word “superstars” is Dreams Today” there to describe a couple of Wisconsin Senior OlymBy Brad Olson, CFP pic athletes, Mary Blandino of West Allis and Paula Larsen of Delafield.

In present day sports reporting, the term “superstars” is often misused and over-used. In this instance, however, it is most appropriate. Although Senior Olympic competition doesn’t receive any-

SENIOR

SUPERSTARS continued on page 24A

APRON The Future Of Long-Term Care In Wisconsin Emma MONEY SENSE

integration of long-term care and acute and primary Answer Man

AGING ISSUES

By Tom Frazier

Recently, I was invited by the Wisconsin Counties STRINGS By Aunt Association be on a panelEmma at its annual meeting to

By Karento Ellenbecker discuss “The Future of Long-Term Care in Wisconsin.” & Julie Ellenbecker This is in response to state budget changes that will -Lipsky potentially make major changes to Family Care, Wisconsin’s existing long-term care system, by requiring

health care, and contracting with large for-profit insurance companies to manage Medicaid long-term care and health care. Existing Family Care manages long-term care and coordinates health care, and it is run by Wis-

IT MAKES ME CRABBY

FRAZIER continued on page 3A

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• 3A

Milking parlors need the immigrant workers

The immigration debate swirling among Republican presidential candidates worries the dairy industry in Wisconsin.

A substantial part of the hard labor on those farms — especially the large ones — is provided by Latino workers. Many of these workers lack papers and are here illegally, as the politicians are quick to say. These workers do the “grunt work” that other Americans are slow to do.

Republican front-runner Donald Trump has proposed that workers without proper immigration permits be sent back to their native countries.

The “good ones” would be let back into the country, according to some of Trump’s rhetoric.

The Migration Policy Institute has estimated that 76,000 people in Wisconsin lack immigration papers.

It estimates 48,000 work outside the home. Those working on large dairy farms would be difficult to replace.

STATE CAPITOL COMMENT

By Matt Pommer

John Rosenow, who operates a large dairy farm near Cochrane in Buffalo County, notes the animals must be milked twice a day and the barns must be cleaned. His warning was spelled out in an interview in the Guardian magazine.MOVING IN THE “Of course, his proposals, as he RIGHT DIRECTION By Bruce Nemovitz (Trump) mouths them, would put us out of business and it would put most dairy farmers in the state out of business,” he said.

A decade ago, Rosenow helped found Puentes/Bridges, a non-profit that helps farmers visit Mexico and learn to speak Spanish. Rosenow says

AGING ISSUES

FRAZIER continued from page 1A

consin-grown organizations.

This budget change was proposed

by Governor Walker and came as a complete surprise to everyone, including his own Secretary of the Department of Health Services (DHS).

The change was opposed by hundreds of consumers and advocacy organizations at Joint Finance Committee public hearings held around the state and during the entire budget process.

Eventually, the outpouring of public opposition was totally ignored, and, with Walker’s vetoes, he got almost everything he wanted.

I opposed the changes based on the facts that Family Care reform, proposed by Governor Tommy Thompson in 1999, had eliminated waiting lists, completely reversed the institutional bias, reduced utilization of Medicaid-paid nursing homes by 11,000 people, decreased Medicaid spending on long-term care from 53% of the total Medicaid budget to 43%, and, even reduced Medicaid health care spending for long-term care recipients. And, almost all of the 55,000 older people and people with disabilities on Family Care and IRIS were happy with their choices of providers

Tom Frazier alor self-directed care.ByWisconsin ready had one of the best long-term care programs in the country.

As to the future, I see three possible scenarios: 1) everything will be okay, 2) there will be mass confusion and disruptions in the lives of thousands of vulnerable people, and 3) it PLANTING will be a disaster. As to the first possiTOMORROW’S DREAMS TODAY bility, there is no evidence that I know

By Brad Olson of to suggest that “everything will be okay.” I believe that it is impossible to make changes, not only in longterm care providers, but also health care providers for 55,000 people without mass confusion and disruption.

There is a great deal of empirical evidence from other states that have contracted with private,SPORTS for-profit inBy Jack Pearson surance companies to manage their Medicaid programs that “confusion and disruption” are the rule, not the exception (in fact, I do not know of any exceptions). In researching such experiences in other states, here are some examples: “Federal council hears hours of grievances from disabled Kansans on KanCare” (The Topeka Capital-Journal, July 7, 2015); “But doctors and patient advocates say state savings and insurer profits

about half of the workers in his operation are Mexicans.

The importance of the issue is not limited to just those who own or work on the dairy farms. It has been estimated that one in every nine jobs MONEY SENSE in Wisconsin has some of sort of tie

By Karen Ellenbecker & Julie Ellenbecker to the dairy industry. Much of Wis-Lipsky consin’s milk is converted to cheese and that leads easily to its large role in production of frozen pizzas.

Clearly, Wisconsin has different agricultural economics than Iowa, where corn seems to be king. But Iowa also has large meat Fi processing Financial i lW Wellness llplants Tomorrow’s that require workers “Planting willing and Dreams Today” able to do the required heavy lifting jobs.

By Brad Olson, CFP As September started, Trump held a substantial lead in polls measuring presidential politics in Iowa, which will be the first state to select deleAPRON gates to the presidential nominating Emma conventions next year.STRINGS

By Aunt Emmawas Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker among the 17 announced candidates

seeking the Republican presidential nomination. He bounced around the immigration issues, taking three different positions in one week, but is now out of the race.

Against a background, a late summer poll by the Marquette University Law School showed Walker’s support slipping even among Wisconsin citizens. The decline was noticeable in rural areas and urban areas across the western and central parts of the state leading him to quit.

Some 56 percent of those polled outstate disapproved of Walker in the latest Marquette poll, according to Franklin. Last year in a similar poll, only 41 percent in outstate Wisconsin disapproved of the governor.

The content in this column does not reflect the views or opinions of the Wisconsin Newspaper Association or its member newspapers.

EDITORIAL

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IT MAKES ME CRABBY

come at the price of inadequate physician networks, long waits for care and denial of treatments like the one for Charles Douglas” (Kaiser Health News, April 29, 2015); “MyCare Ohio Demonstration Start-Up Put Enrollees at Risk” and “UHCAN Ohio and other coalition members have been swamped with calls from enrollees who have had essential services disrupted and don’t know where to turn” (UHCAN-Universal Health Care Action Network, 9/2/14). Similar articles were found in many other states like Texas, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Florida to name a few.

While a disaster scenario might seem unlikely, there are a set of facts to indicate that it could happen in Wisconsin. First, given 15 years of implementation of Family Care, most of the potential big savings in Medicaid long-term care (i.e. reducing expensive nursing home care) are no longer available. So these savings that could go for profit and administrative costs for insurance companies have already been realized in Wisconsin. Second, approximately 80% of Family Care enrollees are eligible for both Medicaid and Medicare. Medi-

care beneficiaries cannot be forced to give up their Medicare and enroll in health care managed care. For example in Virginia, “More than 40 percent of the 66,000 eligible statewide to enroll in Commonwealth Coordinated Care, a three-year pilot program that launched last March, have either opted out or dis-enrolled from the program” (Health NotesOPEN LINK, 6/8/2015). This would also be less revenue for insurance companies if Medicare beneficiaries opt to keep their existing doctors and other health care providers. My experience, at least with older people, is that they will be very reluctant to give up their Medicare cards.

Seven of the eight Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) that administer Family Care are non-profit agencies.

Their profits are limited by state contracts, and their administrative costs have been less than 5%. I believe that

By Enisfor Wright it will be very difficult them to survive in the new environment of integrated care and competition with very large for-profit insurance companies.

If they do not survive it could create the “perfect storm” for disaster--lack

HERMAN WHITE WRITES

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60

FRAZIER continued on page 8A

COMMENT

Financial Fi i lW Wellness ll

4A • 50PLUS • OCTOBER 2015

“Planting Tomorrow’s Dreams Today”

MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION

By Matt Pommer

By Brad Olson, CFP

By Bruce Nemovitz

EDITORIALS

ting where everyone has an opinion EDITORIALS on something, be it from building a SENIOR

APRON STRINGS

Trump hotel on Mars for his personal supervision or why the Brewers are

By Aunt Emma DEAR SAM: MONEY SENSE doing so badly.

STATE CAPITOL

By Karen Ellenbecker I have a friend who I hope will Sour older persons are not unIt appears that Gov.COMMENT Walker is find-AGING It appears that nationally, the door & Julie Ellenbecker Financial Fi i lW read this particular note from your common, neither is the know-it-all.

Pommer orISSUES -Lipskyto Scott to the White House is closed ing out that time doesBy flyMatt by whether “Planting Tomo

By Tom Frazier answer and also talk to me about it. It You might send him a secretive noteDreams Tod not a person is having fun.

Walker. Honestly, was it ever open? regardless ofMOVING the conversaIN THEabout his opinions, explaining withBy Brad Olso It is time, STATE Scott CAPITOL Walker that you seems that MONEY While we personally voted for SENSE tion or the comments, this man always RIGHT DIRECTION

By Karen Ellenbecker out identifying yourself that he may be Walker as governor and up until he get back to beingCOMMENT at the head of our & Julie Ellenbecker has what he believes to be the correct By Matt Pommer By Bruce Nemovitz -Lipsky excluded from your group or even that decided to seek the U.S. presidency, state government. Running for the thought he was doing a good job of GOP nomination for president was, in answer. There is never a subject that it might disband because of him. Ask running our state, his leadership role our opinion, a mistake.

Occasionally, a comes up at our morning coffee group him in your letter to stop, think and rePLANTING Financial Fi i lW Wellness ll TOMORROW’S Tomorrow’s has definitely been diminished. Could mistake may lead to“Planting bigger and better that he does not chime in with his per- alize that someone else may have the DREAMS TODAY Dreams Today”

By Brad Olson he even be reelected todayINasTHE goverthings. If a Republican is Olson, electedCFP as the sonal opinions. This sometimes is suf- correct answer occasionally. Just ask MOVING

By Brad Emma RIGHT DIRECTION nor? next president, might Walker be named ficiently annoying. However, if every- him to be more considerate of others; Financial Fi i lW Wellness ll with him, he pouts

By Bruce Nemovitz one does not agree that he is not always right.

“Planting Tomorrow’s The claim is a truly successful and to a governmental office? Only time,

By Aunt E Dreams Today” or becomes angry.

In the meantime, ask the Lord happy person is one who can enjoy the the voters andMOVING the possible IN THE president

By Brad Olson, CFP I await your opinions. Thanks to help you to tolerate others, as you RIGHT DIRECTION scenery on a detour. can and will answer this question. But

By Bruce Nemovitz GUS GOROMSTY APRON would like them to tolerate you.

We now know that Gov. Walker’s we envision Emma Walker as on his way out AGING Perhaps, you don’t like my opinSTRINGS SPORTS national office aspirations have deof Wisconsin leadership at the compleISSUES DEAR GUS: By Jack Pearson By Aunt Emma ions, but this is very difficult to deal toured. In fact, a local poll might show tion of his present term of office.

APRON By Tom Frazierwith unless there is a head-on confronbelieve Emma I, too, know people who the same for him in Wisconsin.

STRINGS the WRIGHT everything they say is the gospel truth tation.

By Aunt Emma AGING or, at least,SIDE the answer of to all problems.

SENIOR ANSWER MAN ISSUES By Enis Wright Yes, they are difficult to have in a setBy Tom Frazier Emma

About our Governor

Answer Man

EDITORIALS

IT MAKES ME CRABBY

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Social Security has been in existence for 80 years. Prior to 1935, the economic engines of older Americans definitely were sputtering. The Great Depression had derailed jobs and they were, but slowly, getting back on track.

Modern day manufacturing PLANTING techTOMORROW’S nology was yet to come.

Our forefaDREAMS TODAY thers gained their financial indepenBy Brad Olson dence; such as it was then, by working in the mines, the mills, the sweat shops (i.e. small factories) and the railroads.

Among the most self-sufficient in that age perhaps were the farmers. They always could be certain of putting food on their tables, but not always spring chickens.

SPORTS The colossal infrastructure of this

By Jack Pearson country got its start in the late 1930s and

By Enissuccesses Wright led to great during the war years of the 1940s and 50s. There was no end then to meaningful employment opportunities.

It was not until the end of World War Two and the institution of the GI

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IT MAKE

60 IT MAKES ME CRABBY IT MAKES ME CRABBY Answer Man

ME This CRABBY greatest generation

AGING ISSUES bill that brought great change to the

By Tom Frazier

way we Americans lived and worked and even raised our families. The seas Jimhanging McLoone I guess I don’t dare being crabby ture never sleeps. She churns up the enof blue collar with work shirts to dry on the clothes lines were often replaced this month as I already am in hot wa- vironment until crops quit growing and they then begins coasting towards winter. I PLANTING with white ones as standards of living ter (Why do people say this when believe to be in trouble?).

When I said might then question what will she do TOMORROW’S moved upward from quite modest for DREAMS TODAY that Mother Nature seemed to be at rest during winter? Possibly, she’ll just sit PLANTING most folks to what we have come to TOMORROW’S in mid-summer, at least several people

By Brad Olsonback and collect her unemployment. know as the middle class.

DREAMS TODAY told me I was wrong; that Mother NaBy Brad Olson Today, except too often not so in

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HERMAN HERMAN WHITE HERMANWRITES WHITE WRITES

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Made in America ENTERTAINMENT ARTS ENTERTAINMENT ARTS calendarcalendar

larger cities, upper middle class lifestyles are more the norm than not. We thank those who have gone before us, and who we must recognize for their mentoring, for their wisdom, their expertise and their skills.

SPORTS Today, as a few financial engines By Jack begin again to sputter Pearson and the financial markets sway upward and backward, we must look ahead to those with education, especially in technological pursuits, to continue to move us forward.

There is no such effort as standing still.

If that would be so, the remainder of the world would pass us by.

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e

By Karen Ell & Julie Elle -Lips

David Jankoski, a Stanley, WI. the foreign manufactured percentagresident is retired, but obviously not es: Buick LaCrosse, 38 percent; Buick tired as he has served as mayor, alder- Verano, 40 percent; Chevrolet Malibu man, library board member and as vol- and Impala, both 38 percent; Honda unteering columnist for the Stanley Accord, 30 percent; Toyota Camry, weekly newspaper. I found this quite 25 percent. The SUVs all range in the interesting in one of his recentSPORTS columns high 20s to mid-30s percentile of forabout the “Made in America” label and eign made parts The Buick Enclave

By Jack Pearson the percentage of each vehicle that re- has the greatest number of American ally is made in America, which does Bymade parts followed by four other GM Enis Wright include U.S. By and EnisCanada.

Wright These are vehicles.

the WRIGHT SIDE of

KILLING TIME with Jim McLoone

KILLING TIME with Jim McLoone Can you visualize yourself taking advantage of a supposedly new trend, busying yourself for hours with an adult coloring book? The Adult Coloring Book is accompanied by inspirational and decorative themed pictures to be colored by those using

it. You can perhaps find these at your craft store. The bundle is about $30.

The one we read about can be ordered from the Carol Wright Co., which I am sure you can find via your computer.

S S S S KILLING TIME continued on page 21A

Hartland, WI 53029

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60 60 the WRIGHT SIDE of

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ART DIRECTOR/PRODUCTION MANAGER

KILLING TIME with Jim McL PUBLISHER Maureen Slattery

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What’s new for phase two of your life?

• 5A

6A • 50PLUS • OCTOBER 2015

MONEY SENSE

STATE CAPITOL COMMENT

By Karen Ellenbecker & Julie Ellenbecker -Lipsky

By Matt Pommer

Does technology have you feeling left out?

No one has experienced the rise of the social network more than my wife Jeanne and I. When I began my real estate career in 1977, there were no computers, no fax machines, no cell phones, no texting and certainly not a social network! So how did we survive in bringing parties together in a cordial civil real estate transaction? We met one another face to face with a hand shake and eye contact. Sound odd in today’s world… you bet!

You may be feeling the effects of an ever-changing world where young people are constantly texting one another.

Folks are posting their lives on Facebook, linked-in and the myriad of other platforms to publicly display one’s life for all to see. This change in communication has caused many of you to feel left out. It may feel like the world you knew is gone and replaced with digits, icons and noises coming from hand held devices. Your children and grandchildren are now bending their heads in a lowered position starring at their smart phone which I think may be the beginning of a new evolution of the human body where one’s neck may form into a 45 degree angle downward to make

MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION

By Bruce Nemovitz

viewing Facebook a much more natural position!

Now, I don’t mean to come off as a dinosaur or give you the idea that technology is strictly a negative advancement for our society. My wife and I have AGING in totally embraced this new technology our real estate practice andISSUES have found

By Tom Frazier most new programs and hardware to be incredible and helpful to the real estate transaction. Some of these changes have been disappointing. I’m sure you are feeling somewhat conflicted also. Yes, it is great that you can be in the loop within seconds of new information. It is a positive that so many relatively PLANTINGnew TOMORROW’S tools can bring information right into DREAMS TODAY our homes without us having to step out

By Brad Olson of our homes. In my business, we are saving time and becoming much more efficient in what we do. That is a good

thing. However, the one lesson in life that stands out as a constant is BALANCE! Are we moving in a direction too far one way and not enough of Financial Fi i lW Wellness ll an“Plantinginto Tomorrow’s other? Will the center come play as Dreams Today” we keep moving “forward” and may we

By Brad Olson, CFP go back to more personal interaction?

Time will tell. The point of this article is to explain how changes in real estate should be embraced but how these changes have taken something away. I APRON want youEmma to know that you are not alone STRINGS in your feelings of feeling left behind,

By Aunt Emma but also to let you know that you may want to open the door a bit and get more involved in this new world of communication and technology.

Let’s start with my business, the business of real estate. As you are probably aware, Jeanne and I work primarily with older adults and their families. We have helped guide so many incredible folks from their long-time homes to a senior community, apartment or condominium. It has been a blessing to be involved in such an important move.

The good news is that when we list your home, a buyer can literally tour your home online and determine instantly if your property meets their needs. There-

fore, open houses and signs are no longer necessary. The buyers that do set up a showing to view your home are knowledgeable and more apt to be the right buyer rather than in the past, buyers taking one step in and one step out.

When a buyer writes an offer, all parties can now sign online just by clicking in the signature slots. These changes I believe are excellent and save all involved a great deal of time.

What I believe is missing is the hand shake and the discussion among my peers. Most agents are gravitating towards texting. In some transactions, I may never hear or see the agent representing the buyer! When I go to a closing and all the parties involved are at the closing table, I introduce myself and don’t know if the Realtor I’ve been communicating with for over two months is the buyer, the lawyer or a bystander! Sellers and buyers may have never met, and in many cases parties are pre-signing so that the buyer and seller have never seen each other in person.

This saddens me as I enjoyed the hugs and smiles and hand holding which always took place at the end of a trans-

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Planning a move can be overwhelming...

SPORTS unless you have the right support!

ENTERTAINMENT NEMOVITZ continued on PAGE 8A

calendar

By Jack Pearson

With winter ahead, now is the perfect time to plan you or your loved one’s home sale or relocation next Spring. We provide help and trusted support every step of the way.

With compassion and care we manage selling, downsizing, scheduling appointments and contractors, and preparing your home for sale. Let us handle the hard stuff!

the WRIGHT SIDE of

By Enis Wright

60

KILLING TIME with Jim McLoone T R U S T. E X P E R I E N C E . I N T E G R I T Y Bruce & Jeanne Nemovitz have been helping seniors transition from their homes for over 35 years. Selling your home doesn’t have to be a burden. WE CAN HELP!

CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION: (262) 242-6177 www.BrucesTeam.com | Jeanne@BrucesTeam.com | Bruce@BrucesTeam.com

OCTOBER 2015 • 50PLUS

• 7A

Peace of Mind for Moms in the Middle

By Jean C. Setzfand A survey by Ameriprise Financial found that two-thirds of Baby Boomers’ daughters help their parents with financial matters. Maybe you’ve experienced it yourself. Perhaps you’ve also experienced how awkward it can be to have to talk about money matters or caregiving wishes with your parents.

Then there’s the other side of the equation. Have you talked with your adult kids about your financial matters, and your vision of how you’d like to live out your life as you age?

Your kids are probably as uncomfortable broaching the subject with you as you are broaching it with your own parents.

This month, focus on the gift of conversation. Follow these suggestions on how to talk to your parents about their finances, and then turn around and talk to your kids about yours. It’s time to get – and give – peace of mind.

APPROACHING YOUR PARENTS Talking with your parents about their finances and caregiving preferences is bound to be awkward. They may become defensive, thinking that you don’t trust them to take care of things anymore. You know your parents best, so think about how to set them at ease. It’s helpful to say upfront that it’s a difficult conversation for both of you.

Before you talk to mom and dad, put together a list of financial and caregiving information you will need to help them. You can get help by going to www.aarp.org/caregiving.

WHEN YOU’RE READY, HERE ARE SOME TIPS ON HAVING THE CONVERSATION. • Share a story. A great way to start the conversation is to share a story about a friend or neighbor that your parents could relate to.

• Be respectful and positive. Let your parents know that you’re interested in helping make their lives manageable as they age.

• Start small. If your parents are hesitant to talk, try taking on something small. For example, ask them to tell you where they keep their important documents.

• Ask them to talk about their caregiving preferences. Do they want to age in place? Would they be open to moving into a retirement community with continuing care options?

Find out if they have long-term care insurance or other means of paying for care if they need it.

TALKING TO YOUR ADULT KIDS Now that you’ve started the conversation with your parents, it’s time to talk to your adult kids. They will likely appreciate that you initiated the conversation so they didn’t have to!

A great place to start is at www. aarp.org/caregiving. The information and tools there will help you decide what kind of future your parents want and what you see for yourself.

Then create a plan to achieve those goals, and share that plan with your family. The process includes organizing documents, calculating longterm care expenses, and creating an advance directive. An advance directive identifies the kind of care you want in the event you aren’t able to make medical decisions down the road.

It’s up to you how much you want to share with your kids. Think about what’s useful to know about your own parents, and let that be your guide.

At this stage of life, one of the best gifts you can give and receive is peace of mind. Talk to your parents, and talk to your kids. Peace of mind is within reach.

Jean C. Setzfand is Vice President of the Financial Security issues team in the Education and Outreach group at AARP. She leads AARP’s educational and outreach efforts aimed at helping Americans achieve financial ‘peace of mind’ in retirement. She can be reached at jsetzfand@aarp.org.

8A • 50PLUS • OCTOBER 2015 NEMOVITZ continued from page 6A

over the last 80 years of their lives.

One thing we can count on is change. It comes down to being a part of today’s world with a balance of keeping the best of the old and combining it with the new. Balance of technology, communication, and all other actions in our lives will keep us healthy and happy people. Too much of one thing and not enough for another has always led to disappointment and heart ache.

So think about how you can show our young people the best of what we experienced but let them share the new positive changes with us. I believe if we can balance personal contact with the social media, we can all benefit! The new phrase is “back in the day”. That seems to imply a world left behind and no longer relevant. I believe you, the boomer and the older adult can give so much insight and experience to our younger counterparts. Try to remember the feelings you had when you were the up and coming generation. We thought

our parents were somewhat out of date when we came of age. This role reversal can either be a positive or a negative. It is up to you whether you wish to isolate or move forward. People are people and our basic human nature has remained constant. Only the technology has changed. Try to keep that perspective when watching your grandchildren text each other while sitting at opposite ends of your dinner table!

Bruce Nemovitz is a Senior Real Estate Specialist, as well as Certified Senior Advisor. Bruce has sold residential homes in the four county Milwaukee-Metro areas for 35 years. He has published a book called “Moving in the Right Direction”, A Senior’s Guide to Moving and Downsizing. Bruce has just written his second book for the children of seniors, “Guiding Our Parents in the Right Direction”, Practical Advice about Seniors Moving from the Home They Love. This book is now available at www.GuidingOurParents.com. Past

articles about moving and downsizing and other important information can be found at www.BrucesTeam.com.

Bruce received the 2010 “Realtor of the Year” from the 3,800 membership of the GMAR (Greater Milwaukee Association of Realtors). He received the runner up Better Business Bureau Ethical Business of the year in 2015. Bruce is a featured speaker at several senior communities in the Milwaukee-Metro area.

His discussions center on the challenge of moving from a long time home into a senior apartment or community. He has been listed in Milwaukee Magazine’s 5-Star Agents list for the last three years in a row. As such, he’s one of only a handful of Realtors who are continually included in the top 7% in client satisfaction in the Milwaukee Metro area. He’s rated A+ by the Better Business Bureau, and was a finalist for Concordia College’s Ethical Business Leadership Award. He works with his wife Jeanne at Realty Executives Integrity.

FRAZIER continued from page 3A

that rose to 70 cents on the dollar.

The rest went to staff and executive salaries, overhead and profit.” The same article went on to say that two non-profit fee-for-service providers “spend about 97 to 98 cents of every dollar on client care.” More recently (July 31, 2015), wfsu (http://wfsu. org) reported “The insurers in Florida’s Medicaid Managed Care system want the state to raise rates by an average of 12 percent. The state is considering giving them half that. The HMO’s also requested a $400 million mid-year increase, something the state says would undo the savings it sought in the original cut.”

If the disaster scenario occurs, insurance companies can either pull out (something that has happened in other states) or hold the state hostage for rate increases (see Florida) since the state has no other choice. In conclusion, confusion and disruption are highly likely and disaster is very possible.

How to Submit Written Public Testimony: Website address: www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/familycareiris2/index.htm Email testimony: DHSFCWebmail@wisconsin.gov Mail testimony: Department of Health Services, Division of Long Term Care, P.O. Box 7851, Madison, WI 53707-7851

action. This is not to say many closings still bring together sellers and buyers, but many do not.

The bottom line is that technology is here to stay and will be constantly moving forward. Why not embrace some of these new advances and stay connected with the world we live in. I have seen so many in my baby boomer generation as well as older adults, remaining steadfast in their position of refusing to take part in today’s societal changes. They wear their disdain for technology as sort of a red badge of courage. I’m sure this was the same reaction experienced years ago when we went from horse and buggy to the very first vehicles. Imagine going from your source of information coming exclusively from the radio, to today’s thousands of cable stations, the internet and smart phones! Many of my senior clients have experienced and been witness to this incredible transition

of institutional savings, far less profit on the health care side if consumers opt out of health care managed care, and no other organizations to turn to for help if the existing MCOs go out of business.

“The state’s three KanCare companies [private insurance companies] collectively lost nearly $170 million during the first two years of the program…” (Wichita Eagle, April 28, 2015). Back in February 2009, the Tampa Bay Times reported that “In 2006, managed care companies spent only 66 cents on the dollar for client care, according to the state’s actuarial reports. In the first quarter of 2008,

NOTE: PUBLIC HEARING IN MILWAUKEE ON CHANGES TO FAMILY CARE AND IRIS. October 6, 2015-9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Wilson Park Senior Center, 2601 W. Howard Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53221

Have 50 Plus Delivered Every Month Subscribing to 50 Plus news magazine each month promises feature and sport stories, healthy living segments, opinion pages, travel segments, financial tips, and housing guides.

For only $20/year, 12 issues, you can’t pass up this opportunity to have 50 Plus delivered to your home.

Please send a check or money order to: Along with Name: Address: City/State/Zip:

50 Plus News Magazine, Subscription Department, P.O. Box 230, Hartland, WI 53029

OCTOBER 2015 • 50PLUS

Strengthen the government pension offset ... Don’t repeal it

BY TOM MARGENAU I have written many past columns about provisions of Social Security law that impact people who spend the bulk of their careers working at jobs not covered by Social Security. (Since 94 percent of Americans work at jobs where they pay into Social Security, I sometimes think I devote way too much time to this topic that affects only a small percentage of my readers. But they are a very vocal minority!)

Today’s column is devoted to one of those provisions that impact non-Social Security covered workers. It’s called the government pension offset, or GPO. It essentially says this: Non-Social Security retirement pensions will be treated just like Social Security retirement pensions in that they will offset any spousal benefits potentially due to the retiree of a husband or wife’s Social Security record. So anyway, here is the email that sparked today’s column.

Q

: I have written to you before about the government pension offset. You wrote back and said it was fair. But please see the attached link that shows Congress is trying to repeal the law. If it is unfair, why is it being repealed?

A

: Almost every year for the past 30 years, various bills have been introduced in Congress to try to repeal the GPO. By the way, these bills are usually written by union lobbyists representing groups impacted

by GPO and are sponsored by a clueless politicians pandering for votes from said unions. And every year, the bill goes down to defeat. Why? Because it would make no sense to repeal the legislation.

The following examples explain why I believe GPO should be expanded, and not repealed.

Fred and Wilma both worked at jobs covered by Social Security. Fred gets $2,000 per month in Social Security retirement. Wilma gets $2,100 per month in her own Social Security retirement. Fred dies at age 73. Wilma, who is 71, will not get a nickel of Social Security widow’s benefits, because her own Social Security benefit offsets her widow’s rate dollar for dollar. (One Social Security benefit has always offset

another Social Security benefit.)

Their neighbor, Barney, worked at a job covered by Social Security and he gets $2,000 per month in Social Security retirement benefits. His wife, Betty, was a teacher in a state where teachers do not pay into Social Security. She gets $2,100 per month in a teacher’s retirement pension. Like Fred, Barney dies at age 73. Before the GPO law was in place, 71 year old Betty would have received Barney’s full Social Security pension, or $2,000, in widow’s benefits in addition to her own full teacher’s pension. Why should Betty (the teacher) get a widow’s benefit when Wilma (the non-teacher) doesn’t get widow’s benefits? The GPO law simply eliminated that loophole. So again I must ask: Why should the GPO be repealed?

In fact, even with the GPO law, Betty the teacher comes out ahead of Wilma the non-teacher. All of Wilma’s Social Security retirement benefit offsets her possible widow’s benefit, meaning Wilma (the non-teacher) gets nothing.

But only two thirds of Betty’s teacher’s pension offsets her widow’s benefits. Two thirds of her $2,100 teacher’s pension is $1,386. So you deduct that from Barney’s Social Security, and that leaves $614.

In other words, Betty, the teacher, still gets $614 in widow’s benefits, even with the GPO, while Wilma, the non-teacher, gets nothing.

Instead of repealing the GPO law, I think it should be expanded. And to explain why, I will introduce you to a third couple: Dudley and Nell.

Nell is a U.S. citizen who worked her whole life in this country and is now retired and gets $2,000 in Social Security benefits. Her husband, Dudley, is a Canadian citizen who worked for 30 years in Toronto before moving to the U.S. about 10 years ago where he met and married Nell. Dudley gets $2,100 per month in the form of a Canadian Social Security benefit. Sadly, Nell dies.

Because Dudley does not get an American Social Security retirement benefit, and because the GPO law does not include foreign government pensions, Dudley will quality for a full widower’s benefit off of Nell’s Social Security record. In other words, he will get $2,100 in his Canadian retirement pension.

• 9A

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10A • 50PLUS • OCTOBER 2015

Picture Your Parents at Saint John’s!

EDITORIAL

The cost of health care Do you believe that the cost of health care is becoming prohibitive? Can you even imagine what the seemingly ever-rising costs might do to the average person’s budget if it were not for insurance and the government-funded health care programs?

We may grumble when we must pick up some of the not-covered charges.

But we like what we have; it was easy to be covered and will be difficult to lose.

And what about the current coverage for what insurance people refers to as pre-existing conditions!

Medicare is a government-administered program designed to defray much of the medical costs that older Americans endure.

Without Medicare and a private backup plan, many elderly Americans could not afford medical help as needed. Recently, a government study showed the average retiree, with some insurance, might pay out at least $200,000 to cover medical costs during retirement.

If you can afford it, a Medigap policy might be more than just worthwhile.

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Menomonee Falls High School • W142 N8101 Merrimac Dr. • Menomonee Falls, WI Cafe, Pastries “n” More, Raffles, Silent Auction

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EDITORIALS OCTOBER 2015 • 50PLUS

MONEY SENSE

STATE CAPITOL COMMENT

50 Plus and divorce: Financial planning points?

By Karen Ellenbecker & Julie Ellenbecker -Lipsky

By Matt Pommer

I recently did a workshop addressing Social Security Retirement Benefits and one thing stood out; almost half the attendees were divorced. Baby Boomers have always set new standards, even in divorce.

Deciding to divorce at any age is always a hard choiceMOVING to make IN andTHE a difficult experience, but getting divorced RIGHT DIRECTION Bruce over the age of 50Bycan beNemovitz especially complicated and can be filled with pitfalls and rules that younger couples may never have to consider. According to a SmartMoney.com news report, the overall divorce rate has decreased slightly over the past two decades, but data from the National Center for Family & Marriage ResearchAGING at Bowling ISSUES Green State University reveals that the

By Tom Frazier rate for couples over 50 has doubled.

Even more surprising is that statistics show that 40% of first marriages end in divorce, 58% of second marriages end in divorce and 75% of third marriages end in divorce.

As the stakes are likely to be higher for divorcing couplesPLANTING over 50 for TOMORROW’S several reasons, such DREAMS as a pairTODAY having more assets like real estate, obtaining

By Brad Olson a

different rules. Be sure to ask whether it will allow a QDRO, pay it in a lump sum or allow the non-employee spouse to receive benefits prior to the employee spouse.

Another key subject is Social Security. At our recent seminar, we spent a lot of time discussing divorce and Social Security. We discussed how the lesser earner of a divorcing couple is entitled to Social Security retirement benefits based on the higher earner’s work record, as long as the marriage lasted at least 10 years. The lesser-earning spouse must be at least age 62 to begin collecting benefits. Even if the higher-earning spouse qualifies for benefits but has not applied for them, a lesser-earning ex-spouse can collect based on the other’s earnings if the couple has been divorced for at least two years.

In fact, if the higher-earning spouse should remarry, the new spouse can also draw benefits based on higher earners` record without it affecting his Social Security benefits at all. A lot of people don’t know that if they are divorced and their ex is remarried, that does not mean the new spouse can’t get Social Security

• 11A

based on his income, as well as the former spouse.

These are just a couple pieces of the puzzle, and as I mentioned earlier in the article It’s important for both parties to have a team of qualified professionals.

At Oak Tree, we can answer questions, and coordinate with, or recommend other professionals.

TRAVEL

Financial Fi i lW Wellness ll “Planting Tomorrow’s Dreams Today”

By Brad Olson, CFP

favorable settlement is particularly important. It’s important for both parties to have a team of qualified professionals, such as an attorney, financial planner, APRON accountant and a tax advisor.

Emma STRINGS Over the years we have seen one of

By Aunt Emma the largest assets owned by the couple is their retirement accounts, and they should receive the attention they deserve in the divorce process. A divorced spouse’s individual retirement account or 401(k) can be split equally or unequally via a qualified domestic relations order (QDRO). Some companies permit the plan account to be divided so that the ex-spouse can also maintain an account with the company. More commonly, the plan can be transferred to an IRA for the ex-spouse without triggering negative tax implications. Public employee pension plans may have

SENIOR Answer Man

Please free to call Brad, President of Oak Tree Financial Services, directly with any financial planning and investment questions or suggestions for future article topics at 262-649-9202, or email him at brad@otfsllc.com.

Securities offered through Questar Capital Corporation (QCC) Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory Services offered through Questar Asset Management (QAM) A Registered Investment Advisor. Oak Tree Financial Services, LLC is independent of QCC and QAM. Certain insurance activity is independent of QCC or QAM.

IT MAKES ME CRABBY

The information in this article is not intended to be insurance, investment, tax or legal advice. You are encouraged to seek tax or legal advice from an independent professional. The content is derived from sources believed to be accurate. Neither the information presented, nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security or insurance.

HERMAN WHITE WRITES

ARTS ENTERTAINMENT Oak Tree Financial Services Provides Long Term Care Planning At least 70%

calendar

SPORTS

of people over 65 will need long term care services and support at some point.1

By Jack Pearson

the WRIGHT You have two choices!  Ostrich Planning - Do Nothing and bury you head in the SIDE sand! of o Watch your assets disappear o Let your kids worry about you, and change their lives

By Enis Wright

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KILLING TIME

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Attend one of our upcoming informative long term care workshops, or set up a meeting with our Long Term Care Specialist!

Call 262 649 9202 or email OTFSLTC@gmail.com

2312 N. Grandview Blvd., Suite 106, Waukesha, WI 53188 • (262) 649-9202 • www.OTFSLLC.com 1

2014 Medicare & You, National Medicare Handbook, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, September 2013

*Every person who attends a workshop or has a meeting with our Specialist gets a complementary customized plan.

12A • 50PLUS • OCTOBER 2015

HERE’S TO OUR UNSUNG HEROES Every day, thousands of Wisconsinites perform a great labor of love: caring for older adults, spouses, and other loved ones so they can live independently at home. These family caregivers are often on duty 24/7 and sometimes they can’t even take a break. But, they wouldn’t have it any other way.

Help us recognize these unsung heroes.

Visit aarp.org/iheartcaregivers. facebook.com/AARPWisconsin @AARPWI aarp.org/WI

OCTOBER 2015 • 50PLUS

Eternal flame burns

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Se n i o r s • Long Term Care Insurance •Health Insurance • Life Insurance • Annuities • Auto • Homeowners • Free Quotes • Immediate SR22 Filings

The Eternal Flame that is a centerpiece at the Milwaukee War Memorial Center on the lakefront is in honor of all those who have lost their lives in the United States military services. Veteran Paul Bialk promoted installation of the original eternal flame. The, new “flame� was installed in May of this year.

AMONG THE SPEAKERS at the recent War Memorial Center rededication was Gary G. Wetzel, a Medal of Honor recipient for his bravery in military action.

OFFICERS AND DIGNITARIES gathered at the War Memorial Center, downtown Milwaukee, for rededication ceremonies. Those pictured and their titles are, l to r, State Representative Ken Skowronski, WMC Chairman Peter Pachowski, Milwaukee County Super-

visor Deanna Alexander, Milwaukee County Chairwoman Marina Dimitrijevic. Milwaukee County Supervisor Steve Taylor, Milwaukee County Supervisor John Weishan, Milwaukee County Supervisor Mark Borkowski and WMC Director David Drent.

414-545-7878 We are not limited to representing one company, so we can give you unbiased advice.

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• 13A

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Representing Selected Major Insurance Companies For:

• Medicare Prescription Drug Plans • Medicare Supplements • Medicare Advantage • Dental Insurance • Long Term Care • Annuities • Final Expense Life Insurance • Under 65 Major Medical Plans Neither Midwest Select, Inc. or it’s agents are affiliated with Medicare, Social Security, or any government agency. This is 2011-3MWSS-NP an advertisement for insurance. An agent may contact you in an attempt to provide insurance.

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FREE EDUCATIONAL CLASSES

Visit www.TheRetirementClassroom.com Or call (888) 287-0951 Registration appreciated but not required Plymouth Public Library

130 Division Street, Plymouth, WI 53073 WED, NOVEMBER 4, 5:00PM – 5:30PM- Planning for Nursing Care and Final Expenses WED, NOVEMBER 4, 6:00PM – 7:30PM- Getting to Know Medicare SAT, NOVEMBER 7, 10:00AM – 11:30AM- Strategies for Social Security and Retirement Income

Mukwonago Community Library

511 Division Street, Mukwonago, WI 53149 TUE, NOVEMBER 10, 4:00PM – 5:30PM- Planning for Nursing Care and Final Expenses TUE, NOVEMBER 10, 6:00PM – 7:30PM- Strategies for Social Security and Retirement Income

Muskego Public Library

S73W16663 Janesville Road • Muskego, WI 53150 TUE, OCT 13 @ 6:00- Getting to Know Medicare TUE, NOVEMBER 17, 3:00PM – 4:30PM- Strategies for Social Security and Retirement Income TUE, NOVEMBER 17, 6:00PM – 7:30PM- Getting to Know Medicare

Jack Russell Memorial Library

100 Park Avenue, Hartford, WI 53027, United States WED, NOVEMBER 18, 6:30PM – 8:00PM- Getting to Know Medicare

U.S.S. Liberty, Grafton

1620 11th Avenue • Grafton, WI 53024 MON, OCT 19 @ 4:00 – Strategies for Social Security and retirement Income MON, OCT 19 @ 6:00 – Getting to Know Medicare

Weyenberg Library, Mequon

11345 N Cedarburg Rd • Mequon, WI 53092 MON, OCTOBER 5 @ 4:00 – Planning for Nursing Care and Final Expenses MON, OCT 5 @ 6:00 – Getting to Know Medicare

Classes in upcoming months will be held in

Delafield, Germantown, Grafton, Hartford, Mequon, Muskego, Mukwonago, Pewaukee, and Sussex

The licensed insurance professionals involved in the seminar are in no way connected to or affiliated with Medicare. The seminar will provide basic Medicare information while not mentioning any companies or specific products. There is an intention to gain insurance prospects. Form #TRC50Plus15

14A • 50PLUS • OCTOBER 2015

Read All The News In

50PLUS

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THE REGENCY

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Editorials Continued

The political future When a person told me that he’d just bought Evening in Paris, we weren’t certain if he’d bought a night on the city or a bottle of expensive perfume. This is a bit like buying into the campaigns of so many of the people who want to be our next pre4sident. If they’re all so darned brilliant why do they buy doughnuts with holes in them?

None of the people who want to be the chief pilot of our country has ever done so; a few have been governors of their states. Several of the candidates, we’re talking about on both sides of the aisle have never been in a pilot’s seat or In charge of much more than a family budget. Perhaps their spouse handles this task.

We suspect that there’s much world turbulence ahead of us. Let us hope that we have the right pilot to guide through the storms at home as well as abroad.

Certainly, the White House is attainable. Look at some of the people who have gotten there. Again, we’re not referring to just those from one of the two political parties.

More than one crazy idea has been floated by this election’s array of candidates, who rank from Socialist to millionaire to a guy who doesn’t have a chance, but won’t admit it until his campaign money is all wasted. He’s never even had a pilot’s lesson And here we had thought that heat cramps, headaches and sunburn were the only problems at this time of year.

MAINTENANCE -

Men’s locker room - Part Time Lake Country Racquet & Athletic Club seeks male maintenance cleaning help for a permanent position Monday - Friday 3pm- 6pm/ Hours are some what flexible.

Applicant must be detail oriented, responsible and self-motivated.

Candidates must be able to lift 35 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation, work with a variety of cleaning chemicals and work unsupervised. Duties include: cleaning of our men’s locker room, racquetball courts and trash removal from different areas of the club, vacuuming carpeted areas, mopping tile floors, wiping counters, mirrors, showers, and cleaning restrooms. Attention to detail a must! Mechanical inclination is a positive attribute. Seniors are encouraged to apply.

In addition to a competitive wage we offer employees a Club Membership.

Please send your resume to Collette Korpela. korpelac@lcclub.com and www.lcclub.com

Pumpkin Smash Thursday, OcTOber 29 aT 3-6pm

VMP Manor Park - 8615 W. Beloit Rd, West Allis No RSVP necessary. Questions call (414) 607-4167.

JOIN US FOR A “SMASHING” GOOD TIME!

• Witness 100-year-olds chucking pumpkins off 4th story balcony • Cheer on our resident teams playing pumpkin bullseye • Bring your family for festive games, decorations & hayrides

OCTOBER 2015 • 50PLUS

• 15A

16A • 50PLUS • OCTOBER 2015

Experience Regency Senior Communities

For When You Want More Visit our website for information on all of our programs and events—and call now to schedule your private tour.

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OCTOBER 2015 • 50PLUS

• 17A

Annual and Final

Fabulous Fish Fry All-You-Can-Eat Baked and Fried Fish

DINE-IN or CARRY-OUT

Help us celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Fabulous Fish Fry and support Interfaith’s mission to engage and support Waukesha County seniors in leading meaningful lives.

Friday, October 30th 4:30 - 7:30 Country Springs Hotel, Pewaukee Adults $20 Children $10 (ages 3-10) Enjoy all-you-can-eat baked and fried fish, potatoes, coleslaw, rolls, coffee, tea and milk. Then top it all off with homemade desserts!

Desserts are available for an additional cost.

Raffle & Silent Auction

Give $25 for the 25th Scan to purchase your tickets now.

and share a memory or honor someone special with a square on the Community Tapestry Quilt.

Visit FabulousFishFry.org to find out more and purchase tickets.

Can’t attend? You can still be involved! Make a donation at InterfaithWaukesha.org or call (262) 549-3348.

Proceeds from this event benefit Interfaith Senior Programs of Waukesha County’s nonprofit services for children, seniors, and adults with disabilities.

EDITORIALS

18A • 50PLUS • OCTOBER 2015

Medora and Teddy Roosevelt Nat’l Park

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becker ecker

TRAVEL

ness

w’s ”

CFP

Before we even attempt to explain the why and the wherefore of Medora, North Dakota and delve further into its boom, bust and reAnswer incarnation,Man we’ll tell you briefly about the little village (they call it a town) that is located about five hours west of the Minnesota-North Dakota borders. First, we’ll spin right into the adjacent to Medora Teddy Roosevelt National Park that stretches out for over 60,000 acres and was debated as to its becoming a national park by the powers-thatbe for over a half century before it gained the stamp of approval and since has become a destination for hundreds of thousands of sight seekers, who have ooh’d and aah’d its terrain since President Harry Truman christened it as a national park in the 1940’s.

As some of the western-oriented folks in the park’s badlands vithe WRIGHT cinity might say, “Honest Injun, the SIDE of is a national park very definitely

By Enis Wright treasure as it was described by the late and great President Theodore Roosevelt.”

In decent weather, the national

SENIOR

N GS

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park and much of the nearby uninhabitable lands that stretch out far beyond the tiny 1100 population Medora, which is traditionally dressed in its western garb, might swell to as many as 3,000 gawkers, walkers, bikers, hikers and/or horseback riders on any given day.

Before we go further, let us take a tour backward to Medora’s begin-

But 12 days later, so captivated by the scenery, he purchased his first of two ranches. Roosevelt’s badlands experiences helped shape his ideas and attitudes towards conservation.

Roosevelt definitely saw the rugged beauty of the horribly desolate, but terrifically picturesque buttes, hills, canyons, ravines, valleys, rock outcroppings and other

nings.

This story must begin with the times of the French marquis, known to be financially reckless, who spent money developing his businesses and the community named for his attractive and very talented New York wife, whom he married while she was visiting Paris, France, plus the late, but not quite then President Teddy Roosevelt in the late 1800’s.

Roosevelt, who later said that his western North Dakota experiences had adequately prepared him for his later time as president of the United States, first stepped off a train there on Sept. 8, 1883, with the idea of the trip being to shoot buffalo.

geologic formations that we were told date backward in time to glacial activity 60 million years ago. The Clovis Indians were the first humans recorded to have lived in the vicinity. They were, of course, hunters and foragers. Stories about their hunting prowess abound, as they would herd buffalo, chasing them off cliffs where they would fall to their death Just prior to Roosevelt’s arrival; there, the wildly spending Frenchman, Marquis de More, who had married an American girl, whose father was an extremely wealthy New York banker, arrived in the area and was determined to start a cattle slaughtering company that would then ship the processed meat back to the eastern cities via iced rail cars.

The ice was to be cut in winter from the streams and a damed up Little Missouri River. He had brought in or raised up to 12,000 cattle, 15,000 sheep and even grazed herds of horses.

Doing nothing on a small scale, de More’s boasted that he would be the richest financier in the world.

But today, only the chimney remains of the meat packing operations. He also got involved in west coast caught salmon distribution, arranging hunting groups and even started a stagecoach to run between

Medora and Deadwood in South Dakota. However, his father-in-law, after Marquise that blown about $3 million of his money, pulled the plug. All that remains to this day is the chimney of his grand Medora enterprises and the 26-room home and hunting lodge that was built on a bluff overlooking the river and a mile or so outside of Medora. At

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BUFFALO: Herds of wild buffalo roam in the national park. One large bull ambled alongside of our vehicle for about 100 yards before heading to grazing lands as we toured the park. one time, he had laid claim to 4,000 acres of mostly grazing lands.

We never would have visited the reincarnated Medora or the fascinating national park if it had not been for a daughter, who drove us there and back. Her husband, a son-inlaw, works in the nearby oil fields as a machinery sales representative and has done so since the recent recession brought house construction almost to a halt in the twin cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Construction may have slowed in Minnesota as it did hereabouts, but the western North Dakota oil fields may not be culturally on a par with fine arts and nose-in-the-air galleries, but these boomtown communities are bristling with activity and thriving due to the newly found oil extracting ventures.

Viewing the oil drilling and pumping of “black gold” was

OCTOBER 2015 • 50PLUS

easily seen as wells are located alongside many main arteries that include the well-paved I-94. At 75 miles per hour, it doesn’t take an entire day to cross North Dakota by vehicle. Just watch out for the numerous oil trucks and rig-pulling equipment.

As the person stacking up the popcorn balls in a Medora shop said, “Yes sir, it does seem that the badder this landscape gets, the more people come from miles and miles away to see it. Hey, I ain’t complaining, these people are my livelihood.” With that said, he reached for more popcorn kernels to be squeezed together with corn syrup.

The “badder” scenery, of course, are the ravines, hills, dry river beds, scenic stone jutting hillsides, other geologic formations with an occasional elevated observational overviewing point that just could make some of today’s many tourists question if this really is land God made and for what purpose if not for oohing and aahing over.

Before going into greater detail about the national park, which

antelope, white tail and mule deer plus prairie dogs. A news report also told of a golfer playing on the nearby canyon walled course who had received a pair of rattlesnake bites. Ouch!

Eating at the Rough Rider Hotel dining room and also at the Cowboy Café just across the hotel’s parking lot, we noticed many of the servers were foreign born. The man who waited on our table for evening dinner, spoke good English and said he was from Bulgaria. We also noticed numerous Orientals on the wait staffs. He said, “We go home in November as the whole town just about closes down for winter.”

While we did cruise about to view the oil industry, we ate at various places along the way, but we must write about the fabulous Western style dinner that accommodated several hundred diners in quick time. The entrée was ribeye steak fondue that was cooked in large pots of boiling oil with the steaks pushed into the oil while attached to pitch forks.

CHATEAU DE MORES: Once the home of the Marquis and his wife, Medora and children, this 26-room house was built in 1885. The home is open through the Medora Foundation and features original furnishings. has South and North sections (The South’s being twice as large as North) we will fill you in on a bit of bull – bison bull, that is. The bisons roam the canyons and one, as we watched it amble down from a stony perch, trotted slowly over to our car as we began moving away.

All 1,000 pounds of it (estimated weight) trotted alongside for at least 100 yards before crossing the road to join another grazing herd.

There also are herds of wild horses to be seen along with sheep,

Adjacent to the western style dinner where all diners ate at picnic tables is the evening celebration on stage with seating in the 2860 seat amphitheater and about 50 to 60 entertainers on stage. Packaged, the per person price would be about $60 for dinner and show.

While there are sleeping accommodations to please the most discriminating or the easiest to please, we were fortunate enough to stay at the Rough Rider Hotel, with about 60plus well-appointed, very clean and

• 19A

BULLY PULPIT: Just south of Medora, this very scenic and challenging public golf course is listed among the top 100 public golf courses in the United States. Tee times will be available to mid-October. The back nine is especially awesome as can be seen from a photo. The above photo shows a group just ahead of us preparing to tee off.

So, some time when you take comfortably appointed guest rooms.

The Rough Rider dates to the boom- rest in well-oiled Dickinson, travel ing times of Medora. It has passed onward on I-94 another 30 miles though various owners until the to Medora, stay at the very modern then 16 guest rooms’ structure came hotel, eat breakfast at the Cowboy into the ownership of North Dako- Café, visit the Harold Schafer Musetan entrepreneur Harold Schafer of um, devour a tasty ribeye steak fonBismarck in 1962. He attempted to dued, attend the Medora Musical, give it to the North Dakota Histor- listen to stories about Teddy Roosical Society, which did not want it evelt and, if you are a golfer, don’t so Schaefer formed a Medora foun- miss the chance to play the spectacdation, got many dollars donated ularly scenic back nine at the nearby and then, at least at the time, to the Bully Pulpit Golf Course. chagrin of some Medorans, turned Medora is, so to speak, the town the then down-and-almost-out little that Harold Schafer resurrected. His town with its vacant and definitely flamboyance and still with great huin need of repair hotel that is recog- mility are what people refer to as nized as the heart and soul today of building today’s Medora, North Dathis historically correct and touristy kota, where the entrance is to Teddy welcome community. Mrs. Schafer Roosevelt National Park. It doesn’t (Sheila, a second wife) maintains a memorialize the late president, but home in Medora, right behind the it still allows you to see, touch and little brick Catholic Church. She is appreciate just what he did so many seen there out and about in summer. decades ago.

20A • 50PLUS • OCTOBER 2015

Financial Fi i lW Wellness ll “Planting Tomorrow’s Dreams Today”

Aunt Emma wonders about the who, what, where MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION

Greetings to all of my friends, Before I really begin today, I must

tell you about the conversation we had at our coffee club. Each of us had

By Brad Olson, CFP

By Bruce Nemovitz

some kind of opinion, but nobody had the correct answer. We were all guessing when Gertie, just for the heck of it, asked each of us to take a guess as to how old is the world we live on?

Those who thought that we go back to Adam and Eve perhaps were right as to the arrival of human life. However, AGING there are so many theories and estiISSUES mates as to age of the earth that

By Tom Fraziereven the smartest of archaeologists don’t have this answer.

Suzanne believes it all started when Noah and his entourage got off the boat. Others believe the Noah story is a bit of hogwash. Alice, a firm evangelical believer, said she hoped PLANTING that whoever did not believe the Noah TOMORROW’S story should be fearful of getting DREAMS TODAY hit by lightning andBydie on the Brad Olsonspot.

She wanted to bet the bag of bagels she brought along that the bit about Noah is based on fact. Mary said she believed it was the first bit of fiction to come down through the ages and that it had to be told as the Noahs did not have writing instruments. Suzanne said she would bet her pretzels SPORTS against those bagels any day. It was

By Jack Pearson a light-hearted bit of repartee for we girls.

Let’s see. What about today’s topic? Henry suggested the following from his observations followed by his diagnostic opinions at the factory.

Let’s see what you think.

Emma

SE

APRON STRINGS

An

By Aunt Emma

Just like you would expect, there guess is that my introverted Henry outperforms just about every other worker at the factory. He just goes about his work quietly and intently. Just ask me. I can tell you he does seem to have a strong streak of determination.

He is connecting with the right people or figuring out problems at the factory all the time. Possibly, this is what you do when you are introverted?

Now, whether you are extroverted or introverted, I love you just the same. The extrovert in me is waving my banner for others to see. I guess this is what I mean by writing columns. I do like to put other people in the headlines in my stories. Does this mean I have a duo-personality – a bit of both introvert and extrovert?

No, I have no intention of going to see a shrink doctor.

Bye for now.

Emma

IT MAKES ME

HERMAN WH

ARTS

ENTE

ca

with Jim McLoone KILLING Have 50 PlusTIME Delivered Every Month Subscribing to 50 Plus news magazine each month promises feature and sport stories, healthy living segments, opinion pages, travel segments, financial tips, and guides for health & housing.

For only $20/year, 12 issues, you can’t pass up this opportunity to have 50 Plus delivered to your home.

Please send a check or money order to: 50 Plus News Magazine Subscription Department P.O. Box 230 Hartland, WI 53029

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t

OCTOBER 2015 • 50PLUS

• 21A

Editorials Continued KILLING TIME continued from page 4A

Female homeless veterans do need help so it is a great program that the Wisconsin American Legion Auxiliary has taken up. But can the Poppy Fund support all the need?

S S S S This already is October, the month with generally bright skies and cool evenings. While it generally still has nice weather, the frost soon (if not already) will be on the pumpkin and the summer’s birds will soon be taking wing toward the south, as winter will be flapping its wings.

S S S S The old claim is that if the full moon passes this month without a first frost, it will not then occur until the first full moon in November. Who will be correct, the weather person or your arthritic joints?

S S S S I absolutely cannot figure out why people who can go here and there and travel almost everywhere can’t find time or effort to get a voting card.

S S S S The spell check button on the computer has made thousands of secretaries much, much smarter.

S S S S

Which would you rather be: 80 years young or 70 years old?

S S S S Our senior (old geezers) golf league recently had our annual season ending tournament and luncheon at the Delafield Brew House. Jack and Arnie weren’t there, but perennial championship golfer Jay Mays was, whether it is May or October, he excels.

S S S S Whether Ethan Allen ever really said this could be questioned. The physician attending him at the time he was about to die said: “General, I fear the angels are awaiting you.” Allen replied, “Waiting are they, they can wait a while longer.”

S S S S We like the comparison that reminds us that doctors sometimes do bury their mistakes. However, architects can only suggest that their clients plant vines and evergreens over their’s.

S S S S We have read that when the skins of your onions are very thin, you can expect a mild winter. The opposite also is said to be true.

S S S S

Even with a family of eight children, 21 grandchildren and two great grandchildren, it seems that there’s always room in the heart for more even though the wallet may be strained.

S S S S Do you believe that George Washington chopped down that cherry tree or that Johnny Appleseed planted the first such seeds? If so, where did he get them?

S S S S We recently were invited to a pig roast. Everyone, but the pig was very happy. To keep it smiling, there was an apple in its mouth.

S S S S A brother-in-law and I had Whitehouse sandwiches recently at Hartland Inn. That’s about as close as either of us will get to the White House these days.

S S S S I had 20 tickets in a $10,000 lottery recently. I told the Lord that if I won, I’d give half of the winnings to charity. I must have picked one God didn’t really like as someone else won and kept the money for himself.

S S S S A granddaughter recently had a surgical procedure done in a hospital.

The staff must have given her a sleeping drug as she reported that she was an outpatient.

S S S S The bald golfer recently said it was so hot on the course that day that the sun could have fried an egg on his head. Wouldn’t that have been of great interest?

S S S S Who was the man that won the first ever PGA championship? The golfer was Cliff Barnes and the year was 1916. His score? Who knows what he did with a mashie, brassie, niblik, cleek and spoon. Yes, he did have what they called a driver and putter in his bag.

S S S S This is being written in September and we just read that over 75,000 rabid people had attended a Green Bay Packers’ exhibition football game, why must they be called “rabid”?

S S S S Paul Bialk, a Korean War veteran and very active former military man, may be ailing these days, but they still need his expertise on the Veterans' board in Milwaukee where they had made him an honorary member.

S S S S

need a timeout!

Buy and love a pet. They not only love you unconditionally -- they also prove to be your best friend.

When you return home from work and open the door, your pet can hardly wait to be petted and loved! Just knowing that will happen gives you something to look forward to.

Amazingly, it is the little things that count big-time. Try it!

so. How can I get over my concerns?

Positive living in a negative world

By Doug Mayberry : My husband and I are in our 70s. We feel we are living in perilous times. What can we do to change our outlook?

Q A

: Compare yourselves to the caveman’s daily routine! You can choose a positive or negative attitude and outlook! TV, radio, newspapers, books, magazines and our “Uncle Google” are available to solve your problems.

The lack of employment, threats to your safety, possible divorce or family splits, dysfunctional families, increasing health costs, outbreak of new wars, shootings and other downers are always theoretical issues we face.

Choose positive friends for companionship. They exist. Listen to good music that is upbeat. A little daily yoga

and meditation are winners. Become more concerned with what you eat, exercising regularly, and taking daily walks at work.

Your mood can be uplifted by smiles, holding a door open for a stranger, or just saying “Hello!” Performing kind little gestures can really brighten up your day.

Donating cash and food supplies to firefighters, volunteering at charities and bringing meals to people who can’t leave their homes will distract you from your concerns and worries.

Giving hugs relieves stress and helps to disconnect from boredom, loneliness and other factors we experience every day.

Answering your smartphone is not mandatory. Consider turning it off an hour a day. Rarely will doing so create a major crisis. Tell your friends you

THE JOY OF SMALL TALK! : I am a curious 28-year-old lady who was raised as an only child. My parents were New Englanders who were always concerned about sharing too much information and were criticized if they did so. I am trying to get over that attitude and make small talk with strangers. I hesitate and actually fear doing

Q

A

: With the winning and positive attitude you now have perhaps the best way to overcome your fears is to realize that if you choose to make the effort and an individual responds it will increase your happiness and well-being.

Professional research has proven that those of us who are comfortable making small talk are happier!

I ride the Amtrak train a couple of times a week. As an outgoing 84-yearold male who doesn’t look too dangerous, I have a field day when I open up a conversation with my seat-mate and he or she responds with a friendly reply. It makes the trip seem shorter, and I always learn something worth knowing.

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22A • 50PLUS • OCTOBER 2015

ARTS

ENTERTAINMENT

October 1 – 4 Milwaukee Oktoberfest The Marcus Center Grounds and Pere Marquette Park will transform downtown Milwaukee into a traditional Bavarian Oktoberfest celebration activating both sides of the Milwaukee River with beer gardens, music and food. This event is free admission and is family friendly. For more information on special events visit mkeoktoberfest.com/events.

October 2, 4:30 – 7:30 pm Oktoberfest Benefit Muskego Senior Taxi Muskego Regency, W181 S8540 Loge Blvd., Muskego Come and enjoy an authentic German dinner, beer and wine will be available. Enjoy the traditional music, raffle drawing and silent auction. All proceeds benefit the Muskego Senior Taxi Service, a nonprofit organization that provides rides to seniors and adults with disabilities. For ticket information call Karin at 262-679-4754.

October 3, 8:30 am Wag, Woof & Walk – Cedarburg Dog Walk “Barking Lot” at LaRosa Landscape Company, N144 W5800 Pioneer Rd., Cedarburg The Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce presents the inaugural “Wag, Woof & Walk,” with the 1.7 mi. walk beginning at 9:15am. The event will conclude in the same location after the approximate 1 hour walk. Participants will receive a free 5 lb. bag of Fromm Adult Gold Dog Food courtesy of Landmark Feed, Seed & Supply as well as additional treats along the way.

Fun, games, and prizes for canine participants guaranteed. The participation fee is $10 per dog, or $8 for those who bring a donation benefiting the Wisconsin Humane Society, Ozaukee Campus (refer to the Humane Society website at www.ozaukeehumane.org for the Society’s wish list).

October 4, 1-4PM New Berlin Historical Society Annual Applefest The New Berlin Historical Society, 19765 W National Ave., New Berlin This is a family-friendly, free event at the Historical Park. Visit pioneer homes. Check out the exhibits in our museum and our gift shop.

Kids will enjoy barrel rides, shelling corn and making cider. Apples, honey, pumpkins, and corn stalks for sale.

There will be homemade desserts and beverages available. www.newberlinhistoricalsociety.org October 4, 11:30 am – 4:30 pm Cider Sunday Wehr Nature Center, 9701 W. College Ave., Whitnall Park Freshly made apple cider, apple treats; live music, and guided hikes through the woods and prairie are highlights of Cider Sunday. Admission includes a variety of activities. Using a hand-crank cider press and sampling the results, learning how apple butter is made over an open fire and taste-testing the final product, hiking the multihued woods, and listening to the music of the Bluegrass All Stars and the Thistledown Thunders are just a few of the activities. For more information, call Wehr Nature Center at (414) 4258550.

October 5, 6:30 – 8 pm Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Bolabki) Cooking Class Polish Center of Wisconsin, 6941 S. 68th Street, Milwaukee Explore your Polish Heritage through the universal medium of food.

Classes are popular, reasonably priced and taught at the Polish Center. Learn to make this traditional comfort food.

Golabki (literally, little pigeons) which is a Polish favorite. Ethnic variations of the recipe abound but the Polish version is best. The instructor is Peter Burzynski, executive sous-chef at Polonez Restaurant. To register call 414529-2140.

October 7, 14, 21 & 28, 10 am – 4 pm October 8, 10 am Social Security Seminar Watertown Senior & Community Center, 514 S 1st St, Watertown Greg Schroeder, Financial Consultant; Andrew Griggs, Attorney at Law; and Matt Mauthe, Chief Exec Officer Marquardt Village will be at the center to discuss “Choices for Your Future”.

Options for Senior Living, Wealth & Lifestyle Choices are some topics that will be discussed. Feel free to ask questions, get some answers and absorb the vast information available. This presentation is free and open to the public.

October 8, 1 – 2:30 pm Home Management and Self Care Brookfield Public Library, 1900 N. Calhoun Road, Brookfield Discover tips on how to make your home environment safer and how to get your indoor and outdoor areas ready for the coming winter. Part of the Senior Well Being Series presented

by April Jehlik. Call 262-782-4140 for additional information.

October 8, 10 am – noon Photo Organizing Class Greenfield Public Library, 5310 W. Layton Ave., Greenfield Learn how to upload photos from your camera and place them on a computer.

Also, learn how and where to save photos on your computer and how to organize them into folders. Patrons should have basic knowledge of computers and can bring their own laptops to class. There will be computers available for use. Please register for this class by calling (414) 321-9595 x105.

October 9, 7:15 am – 5:30 pm Sussex Senior Day Trip Cranes & Trains Start the day with a guided tour of the International Crane Foundation where you can observe 15 crane species. Next we head to lunch at the Farm Kitchen restaurant. After lunch, we head to the Mid-Continent Railway where we’ll take a memorable ride in a restored 1915 steel coach through a rustic valley in rural Sauk County.

We’ll also visit the Coach Shed, which

is filled with restored wooden passenger cars, freight cars and displays from the turn of the century. Registration includes coach bus, admission to Crane Foundation and Mid-Continent Railway and lunch with tip. Call Sussex Parks and Recreation Dept. at 262246-6447 to register.

October 9, 8:30 am Fifty-Five Plus Travel Club O.A.S.I.S, 2414 W. Mitchell Street, Milwaukee The Travel Club, for seniors 55 years over with or without a travel companion, meets monthly. Attend a meeting to learn about available trips and share valuable information. Many one-day motor coach trips are offered year round; some on weekends. A few extended trips are also offered to exciting destinations. If you are unable to attend a meeting, please call 647-6071.

You may also call us to learn of vacancies or to have your name placed on the waiting list if your desired trip is filled.

Registration by mail is valid with proper forms.

October 9, 10, 16, 17, 23 & 24, 7:30 pm October 25, 2 pm Haunted Houses The Village Playhouse, Inspiration Studio, 1500 S. 73rd St., West Allis “Haunted Houses”, written by Wisconsin playwright, Ludmilla Bollow, opens in an abandoned farmhouse, which is being set up for a Haunted House tour by two women and their teenage children. An eccentric caretaker relates weird tales about the house, and that a movie company, Scream Productions, left unexpectedly during filming. Strange and frightening events take place while the new group tries to install their own pseudo scares. Family clashes intermingle with the frightening happenings. A perfect evening of shivers for the Halloween Season.

Please call Judy Lee at 262-408-5951 for more information.

October 9, 5:30 BINGO Highland Hall, 730 Highland Ave., Hartford The doors open at 5:30 pm, with Early Bird Bingo starting at 6:30 pm. The Regular Session begins at 7:45 pm. Progressive Bingo starts at

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arson

HERMAN WHITE WRITES ARTS

ENTERTAINMENT

calendar

9:00 pm. Come early for a sandwich plate from our kitchen or try one of our special desserts baked by our Senior Friends bakers! Try your luck at a game or two of BINGO!!

Oct. 12 - Dec. 26, 9 am The Mitchell Mile The Domes, 524 S. Layton Blvd., Milwaukee As the weather takes on a chill, the Mitchell Mile will offer residents the opportunity to extend their walking routines to the “rainforest,” “desert,” or current floral show of The Domes.

The one-mile walk will be led by the Conservatory Educator or an Education Center Specialist. Trivia about The Domes as well as healthy green-living strategies will be shared during the walk. The Mitchell Mile is free with regular admission.

TIME with Jim McLoone

October 16, 7 – 9 pm “Oldies But Goodies” Senior Dance Rotary Building, Frame Park, 1150 Baxter Street, Waukesha You’ll shake, rattle & roll at this fun-filled event! Join other seniors for an evening of great music, dancing and fun. Light refreshments and non-alcoholic beverages will be served. There will be dance lessons from 7 to 7:30.

Costumes from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s

E E FR

are optional, but encouraged. Call 262524-3737 for additional information and registration.

the WRIGHT SIDE of October 16 – 17

By Enis Wright

Kay Stiefel and Jack Forbes Wilson have been seen both together and separately on many Wisconsin stages.

They look forward to performing favorite songs from their nearly three-decade career together, as well as many new things they’ve been working on

OCTOBER 2015 • 50PLUS

60

Fall Gallery Night and Day Historic Third Ward The 28-year-old Gallery Night and Day is the premier art event in Milwaukee for both the avid gallery goer and the beginning admirer. This fall, the quarterly event of gallery hopping and art viewing will showcase 52 venues throughout the downtown Milwaukee area. Admission is free to all venues during event hours. Catch the free Friday Gallery Night Xpress and enjoy a three-stop route, which will take visitors from the Third Ward to East Town and back. Or take the second Xpress bus to the Harley-Davidson Museum.

Board at 225 E. Chicago Street. Both shuttles make continuous loops from 5 to 9 pm Friday with stops approximately every 15 minutes. Visit www. gallerynightandday.org for hours and additional information.

October 16, 12:30 pm “Our Favorite Things” concert featuring Kay Stiefel and Jack Forbes Wilson Spring Creek Church, N35 W22000 Capitol Drive, Pewaukee

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Win a

Tablet

Tour Assisted Living and WIN a tablet.

Winner will be drawn at the end of the month.

Each person who tours Assisted Living will have their name entered into a drawing. At the end of the month, one person will win a tablet.

There will be a drawing at the end of October, November and December.

Each name can only be entered once per month after each tour given.

(414) 607-4104

• 23A

this year! There is also a pre-show lunch option, homemade lunch served buffet style starting at 11:30 am. For admission and reservation information please call 262-695-2211 or email jatchley@springcreekonline.com with questions.

(414) 371-7316

TOMORROW’S DREAMS TODAY

By Brad Olson

24A • 50PLUS • OCTOBER 2015

HERMAN WHITE WRITES ARTS

SPORTS

By Jack Pearson

SUPERSTARS continued from page 1A

where near the attention lavished on pro football, we can still use the two sports to make a point. Green Bay Packer quarterback Aaron Rodgers is considered as a superstar today by nearly everyone. It is because that of the three thousand or more NFL players today, and especially of the more than 60 quarterbacks, he is ranked among the very best, among the top two or three. He deserves the title.

Correspondingly, of the hundreds of thousands of senior Olympic athletes who struggle mightily in state Olympic events for the right to compete in the National Olympic Games, only about 17,000 make it. And among all of those many thousands, our Mary and Paula are right up there at the top, easily among the best one

ENTERTAINMENT

percent. Read on and you’ll see.

At the recent Nationals, for example, Paula entered three events, the 5k and the 10k cycling races, and the intensely grueling Triathlon, in her age group, 70-74. In each she won a Silver Medal. So only one athlete in the whole country in that age group was better than she in all three events. The odds of doing that were comparable to becoming a top-rated quarterback in pro football, I’m sure.

Enough with the background, and more about the ladies. We’ve already begun on three of Paula’s races, so we’ll start with her.

Paula grew up in little Manawa, which is up in central Wisconsin about mid-way between Stevens Point and Appleton. Neither the elementary school she attended or the high school offered sports of any kind to half of their students. The half that were girls, that is. “About the closest I came to anything athletic was riding my horse and my bike. But it was funny, I liked sports even though I couldn’t be part of the action. Which was difficult, to be sure. Not only didn’t the schools offer sports, there was very little involving women in sports on televi-

calendar the WRIGHT SIDE of

By Enis Wright

KILLING TIME with Jim McLoone

Oct. Dec. Jan. Apr. May

24 6 30 9 21

2015 2015 2016 2016 2016

7:30 PM 4:00 PM 7:30 PM 7:30 PM 7:30 PM

Life And Times of Vince Lombardi Cherish the Ladies: A Celtic Christmas John Denver Tribute with Ted Vigil Paragon Ragtime Orchestra Ernest In Love

OCONOMOWOC ARTS CENTER 641 E. Forest Street Oconomowoc, WI

60

Paula in action.

Perhaps you saw a feature in the sion, either.”

She was fortunate in her choice Milwaukee Journal in early August of colleges, however, enrolling at the featuring Paula at the USA Triathlon University of Wisconsin – La Crosse, Group National Sprint Championwhich was one of the top schools in ships held at the Milwaukee lakethe state in regard to women’s’ sports. front. Paula won the championship “I joined the track team and ran the of the 70-74 age group there, to her distance races,” she recalled, “I wasn’t deserved happiness. She had finished particularly fast, but I became a fairly third in the event in 2013, and second last year. The article included a phogood two-miler,” she said.

Because of her love of sports, she to of Paula with her daughter, Shawn chose athletics as a major. Obviously, (Granowski) and two granddaughters, she learned well, for after graduation Kjirsten and Erika. It took the phoshe accepted the position of head track to’s caption, however, to explain just coach at Mayville High School (about who was who in the picture. It’s not 40 miles northwest of Milwaukee). As that the two granddaughters looked so to her own athletics, she had always elderly, by any means. It’s that Paula liked cycling, and in her college days doesn’t look much older than them or had begun long distance running. Now her daughter. She’s really in excepalso, living in a state with thousands tional shape. Well, maybe it was just of lakes, she was also swimming more a complimentary photo, or maybe it and more. But it wasn’t until she had was just these old eyes of mine, where passed the age of 50 that her athlet- everyone except that guy in the miric career began to bloom. “I’d heard ror looks young. Maybe both. Paula about the Wisconsin Senior Olympics attributes whatever looks she has or program,” she said, “and the many shape she’s in to her life style, which sports it offered to seniors. I decided includes year-round running and jogto join, and it was one of the best de- ging, swimming and cycling, among other things. Could be; it certainly cisions I’d ever made.”

Since that first year, she has com- hasn’t hurt her. (So, if you think you’re peted in a dozen or more Wisconsin starting to look pudgy and podgy and Senior Olympic Games and three Na- out of shape, there’s your answer.)

One other item. At the recent Wistionals, and has won scores of medals and ribbons in them. When I asked her consin Senior Olympics Celebration for a total count, she replied that she of Athletes annual dinner, Paula was really didn’t know what it was. Com- named to the organization’s Hall of piling trophies and awards has never Fame, joining 12 other senior women been what it’s all about for her. It’s who have been previously inducted. always been rather the thrill of com- One of these 12, named to the Hall petition, the wind in her face, the fin- a few years back, is Mary Blandino, ish line out there ahead of her, with no whom I’ll tell you a bit about now.

Like Paula Larsen, Mary Blandione else between it and her.

OCTOBER 2015 • 50PLUS

no got a late start in competitive athletics. “I’ll second that ‘late’ description, she said with a chuckle. “I actually didn’t get into sports of any kind until I was in my fifties.” Which is the most remarkable aspect of almost all of the Senior Olympic female athletes. Most athletes, especially men, get their start in sports when they’re just youngsters and reach their peak in their 20s and 30s, and usually are long retired by the time they reach 50. To take up a sport and to just be able to play it at all well after that age is extremely difficult to do; to become a champion at it with that late a start is truly incredible.

Born in Madison in 1946, Mary recalled that elementary schools and high schools in that era offered nothing in the way of sports for girls. “The only option we had was to try out for the cheerleading team,” she said.

“Even colleges had little. It took Title IX to change that, and even with that mandate, most schools were reluctant to comply.”

At the Minneapolis Nationals Senior Olympics this past July, Mary entered three events, all in the 65-69 age category, in badminton and volleyball, in singles and doubles. She won

Gold Medals in two of them, a fourth place ribbon in the other. Again, her competition consisted of the top senior female athletes in that age level in the entire country. Since turning 50 and becoming eligible for the Senior Olympics, she’s captured more than 100 medals and ribbons. She never entered an event without winning a medal or ribbon. I don’t know of another athlete who can claim that.

As incredible as have been her athletic accomplishments, Mary has and still is a major contributor in other areas as well. She’s been a member of the WSO Board of Directors for many years; she annually coordinates and directs the Wisconsin Senior Olympics Celebration for Athletes annual banquet, where all of the current Hall of Fame inductees are introduced and other of the organization’s awards are presented. She has served as an event coordinator for badminton competition during many of the past Wisconsin Senior Olympics over the past three decades.

A full-page tribute in the current 36th Annual Wisconsin Senior Olympics Yearbook announced that she had been named as the organization’s 2015

Service Award winner. The award is presented ever year to the outstanding Wisconsin Senior Olympics athlete or volunteer who has contributed time, energy and spirit in serving the Senior Olympics. Prior to that, it noted, Mary spent 34 years as a teacher, coach and athletic director at West Allis Hale High School, where her teams won numerous conference and state championships. Correspondingly, she was one of the first female inductees into the Wisconsin High School Coaches Hall of Fame. She’s been a WIAA official in track & field, badminton, volleyball and gymnastics. She currently teaches classes at the Wisconsin Athletic Club. She also volunteers as an instructor with the Chicago Mountaineering Club, coordinates badminton and pickleball for the West Allis

• 25A

Recreation Department; is a trip leader with the Wisconsin Sierra Club; and serves as an instructor and activity guide for individuals with visual impairments with the Blind Outdoor Leisure Development (BOLD) group (and has suggested that I write a feature about that organization, which I hope to do).

Listing all these organizations above that Mary is involved with boggles the mind. It seemed to me that a dozen people would have a hard time finding time and energy to do what she does. And she’s nearing 70. But don’t bring that age factor up with her, if you meet her sometime. Age is a state of mind, and Mary and Paula are in the right state now, in more ways than one, for some time now.

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26A • 50PLUS • OCTOBER 2015

Yes, this is October, a month of 31 days.

There’s much to do so many different ways.

Get up early and enjoy the sunshine of fall.

Stretching out and do exercise to stand tall.

There’s a real difference in this season.

Could this old globe’s rotating be the reason?

October days are mostly all sunny and bright.

Yet, you will notice a chill in the air at night.

OCTOBER Poem Farm fields, not already harvested, are ready.

Bumper crops will keep farmers’ smiles steady.

October is already blessed by a late full moon.

It’s always there, even as not seen at high noon.

Trees are shedding leaves as winter approaches.

Mice and such seek the inside, even the roaches.

Football, soccer, golf and other balls fill the air.

Young people with serious pursuits seem so rare.

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As October continues, there’s planning for Halloween.

Tradition will bring ghosts and goblins to the scene.

As turkeys fatten and geese head southward in the air, It still is not too late for a ride on the old gray mare.

We now must bring this 10th month to its close.

But we frightfully look ahead to winter’s woes.

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• 27A

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Caregiver’s Guide

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Home Health Care DIRECTORYpage 20

2B • 50PLUS • CAREGIVERS GUIDE • OCTOBER 2015

Having a family meeting before a crisis situation Why have a family meeting?

Too often a family meeting is delayed until the older adult has a health or housing relocation crisis.

They are frequently held informally through discussion during the holidays or at special family events. However, when family meetings are held because of a crisis or during informal activities, discussion can be fragmented and often not everyone involved is consulted.

It is common for family members to have misconceived or pre-existing ideas regarding the physical and mental capabilities of the older adult. Family members also may be confused about exactly what their caregiving role is going to be. This is why having a family meeting is so important; and why doing so before a crisis situation can help avoid the heightened emotions brought on by stressful circumstances.

Ideally, in a situation of aging parents and adult children, the parents should openly discuss their caregiving expectations with their children. The adult children need to define their limitations as to how much caregiving they are willing to do. All immediate family members should be present in a non-crisis situation.

A good way to bring up the topic of caregiving is to get all close family members and friends, age 18 and older, together to fill out their Power of Attorney for Health Care forms, appoint health care representatives and discuss care preferences. The forms, which are free, can help stimulate discussion about the older adults’ care and housing preferences. They can be found at http://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/forms/advdirectives.

Is a family meeting always needed? Some families who frequently communicate by telephone or face-to-face and understand the need to “share” caregiving functions may not need a family meeting. However, this scenario is rare. A family meeting can still be a nice way to check on whether or not everyone feels they are being treated fairly or kept in the communication loop.

How do you hold a “family meeting?” The meeting should be kept as small as possible, only attended by those individuals who will have direct decision-making or care involvement. If the older adult is mentally competent, he or she needs to be involved in all decisions about his or her own care and attend all family meetings.

A basic agenda should be developed to keep the meeting on track. Before the meeting, everyone should be able to give their input on the topics for discussion and no one’s ideas should be discounted. The outline can change and develop with future meetings and as care needs change.

For ideas on important topics to include and discuss see the Family Caregiver Support Network’s handout entitled “Family Planning Is Important”. This handout may be obtained by calling (414) 2208600.

If disputes are expected, the first meeting can be about setting ground rules about behavior, understanding what are convenient times for meetings and goals for meetings. If relationships are strained, a neutral third party such as a social worker or geriatric care manager trained in offering family meetings may be a good person to have at meetings.

If the only time all family members can get together is during the holidays, schedule a special time, possibly the day after the holiday, for a family meeting. Then whenever discussion about caregiving is brought up, there can be a reminder that it will be discussed “tomorrow.” Everyone can then enjoy the holidays and complete attention can be given to discussing caregiving concerns during the meeting.

FAMILY MEETING CHECKLIST 1.) Invite everyone, including the older adult, who has an interest but keep the meeting as small as possible. Limit attendance to those people who have direct contact with the aging loved one. If this is a planning meeting and not an older adult care or relocation crisis, set the guidelines for future meetings – frequency, respect while talking, length of talking, place for meetings and goals for meetings, etc. The older adult can discuss his or her preferences for immediate or future care and housing. i Also, Advanced Directives known as Powers of Attorney for Health Care and for Finance, when completed, can help give direction when delegating duties and choosing roles.

2.) Everyone in the meeting should be encouraged to participate so that no one can later say, “I didn’t get to talk.”

3.) Listen “generously.” Remember that there is usually more than one way to solve a crisis or situation.

4.) Take notes so that things can be sorted out later and ideas can be written down if more thought is needed.

5.) Obtain the help of an objec-

tive outside party if needed. Many social workers and geriatric care managers are trained to help families negotiate sensitive issues with a goal of having the best possible outcome.

6.) If anger crops up, suggest a break so folks can “cool off ” and hopefully come back to the table a little more willing to work through the challenges.

7.) Be willing to compromise.

Rarely does anyone get to have his or her way all the time and on every point.

8.) Agree to disagree without being “disagreeable” if at all possible!

Common courtesy and civility do matter in keeping things positive in family discussions.

9.) Have more than one meeting if needed and if appropriate so that ideas can be explored, phone calls made and new facts presented before a final decision is made.

10.) End the meeting by affirming the following: i What was decided? i What is left to be decided? i Who is going to do what before the next meeting? i Setting up a time for the next meeting if needed.

Interfaith Older Adult Program’s Family Caregiver Support - 414.220.8600 – www.interfaithmilw.org www.caregiversupportnetwork.org www.living-options.org

OCTOBER 2015

• CAREGIVERS GUIDE • 50PLUS • 3B

Caregiver’s CONTENTS Caregiver’s Guide Listings..........................................3 Adult Day Services.................................................... 5 Alcohol and Substance Abuse..................................... 5 Alzheimer’s and Memory Loss..................................... 5 Animals/Pet Care...................................................... 5 Assisted Living........................................................... 5 Caregiver Education..................................................5 Consumer Protection.................................................. 5 Dental...................................................................... 7 Driving..................................................................... 7 Employment Services................................................. 7 Elder Abuse..............................................................7 Faith/Spirituality........................................................ 9 Financial Issues.........................................................9 Funeral and Burials.................................................... 9 Geriatric Assessment.................................................. 9 Geriatric Care Management and Support.................... 9 Grandparents and other Relatives Raising Minors....................................................... 9 Grief Resources........................................................9 Health Care Clinics.................................................... 9 Hearing Resources................................................... 11 Home Maintenance / Chores................................... 11 Home Safety........................................................... 11 Homemaking and Healthcare................................... 11 Hoarding...............................................................11

Published by

Guide

Hospice.................................................................. 11 Housing.................................................................. 11 Insurance- Medicare................................................ 11 Legal Matters.......................................................... 11 LGBT Caregiving.....................................................12 Lifelines- Medical Alarms.......................................... 12 Long-Distance Caregiving.........................................12 Medicaid/ T-19....................................................... 12 Medical Equipment.................................................. 12 Mental Health and Counseling.................................. 12 Nursing Homes....................................................... 13 Nutrition-Dietitians, Home Delivered Meals................. 13 Older Adult Services-ADRC and Volunteer..................13 Older Adult Services by Volunteers............................13 Podiatry.................................................................. 13 Publications............................................................. 13 Relocation Services.................................................. 14 Respite Care........................................................... 14 Silver Alert Program................................................. 14 Socialization........................................................... 14 Support Groups....................................................... 14 Transportation......................................................... 14 Veterans Benefits ..................................................... 14 Visions Resources.................................................... 14 Websites................................................................. 15

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4B • 50PLUS • CAREGIVERS GUIDE • OCTOBER 2015

Being an advocate Each Caregiver’s journey is unique, but something we all face is being an advocate for our loved ones. Chances are, you are already an advocate and just don’t think of what you do as advocacy. According to Webster’s Dictionary an advocate is “a person who pleads another’s cause; or someone who speaks or writes in support of something.”

We may not identify our role as an advocate when we first make that call to the doctor’s office to arrange a check-up or have a simple conversation with neighbors to ask if they are willing to continue to help with the snow shoveling again this year. Then again, the role of advocate may be much more obvious when we need to address concerns regarding the health or safety of our loved one while they are recuperating at the hospital or nursing home.

Sometimes we have to be the eyes, ears or voice of a loved one who cannot or will not express their needs or concerns. If their care is being compromised or their rights as a person or as a resident are being violated, we need to make sure our loved ones are seen and heard.

Advocating comes easily to some caregivers but for others it may seem overwhelming to speak up and “make waves, or stir things up.” However, if carried out correctly, advocating for a loved one will result in better care for them and peace of mind for you.

Here are 5 basic skills that can help you be the best advocate you can be: i Reflect: First, reflect and recognize the underlying reason why you advocate. Often, it is out of love, respect and belief in the dignity for the person you care for.

Once the reason or purpose can be

recognized and taken to heart, the emotional impact may not be as difficult or burdensome. i Discuss the Tough Stuff: Make sure you know what your loved one would want. To be assertive on behalf of another person requires understanding that person and respecting their wishes. Medical professionals expect families to have had conversations about life, death and all the stuff in-between in order to provide quality ongoing medical treatment and care. There may be times when you as the caregiver do not agree with the choices of your loved one, but honoring their choices shows respect for the person. That in itself is advocacy. i Communicate: When advocating it is important to be assertive in order to get your concern addressed. It is possible- and is actually more likely- for you to get results without being aggressive.

What we really want is someone to truly listen to our concerns, take them seriously, and do something about them. A useful communication tool to accomplish this is to try using “I” statements rather than “you” statements. For example, think about how you would feel if someone said to you “Why does it always take you so long to respond to my mom after she presses her call light?”

“You” messages unintentionally irritate people because they sound accusatory, blaming, critical or hostile. They can veer a conversation off track because people focus on their irritation or hurt feelings, and not on what you intended to say.

Now, consider if someone said to you, “I am very concerned because my mother tells me she waits

a long time after pushing her call light.” Using “I” messages in a firm and matter-of-fact tone allow us to express our feelings such as anger, frustration, disappointment or concern without “blowing up,” blaming others or causing them to become defensive.

“I” messages can be helpful when you need to raise a problem or concern, ask for help, state your intentions (or what is not intended) and to set limits. Although it may take some time and effort to break old habits, good communication techniques like “I” messages can open the door to effective problem solving and create an atmosphere of working together which can make a difficult situation much easier to discuss. i Be Informed: It is important to develop a knowledge base about medical, social service, legal and financial systems. Find out about the services and resources that are available in your area.

How might they meet your needs and whom should you talk to?

Knowing where and whom to bring your comments, concerns or praises to is critical to being an effective advocate. i Document: Sometimes the pen really is mightier than the sword. In the medical, social service, legal and financial worlds, “it doesn’t exist or didn’t happen if it’s not written down.” Keep a caregiver journal or notebook and write down everything you do on behalf of your loved one. Record all phone calls with the date, place or person you are calling, the name of the person you spoke to, a contact number and some general notes about the conversation you had. Write down any questions you asked as well as

the response you received and any concerns that were resolved or decisions that were made.

It is equally important to make sure things are being documented on the professional end as well. If there is a care plan in place make sure that any concern, no matter how small, is reflected in the care plan, even if you talked to someone about it. Ask for copies of any paperwork or documents and keep them in a safe place. Finally, never hand over an original document or your only copy. If you absolutely have to turn over an original, make a copy for yourself first. If it comes down to your word against someone else’s your paper trail backup can provide tangible evidence to your claim.

Last but not least, know that at the Family Caregiver Support Network, 414-220-8600, they are ready to assist and support you in your role as your loved one’s advocate.

We understand the types of information you may need, the hats you wear and the emotions that you wade through on any given day.

Just as you are an advocate for your loved one, we are an advocate for you as the caregiver. Come to us for information, resources and support. We are here to help you be the best advocate you can be.

Interfaith Older Adult Program’s Family Caregiver Support - 414.220.8600 – www.interfaithmilw.org www.caregiversupportnetwork.org www.living-options.org

OCTOBER 2015

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Whether you are looking for skilled nursing care per week.

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ALZHEIMER’S AND Milwaukee.................414-264-6257 call 414-220-8600 or MEMORY LOSS 800-449-4481 or visit www.wihumane.org Problems with memory can www.living-options.org or call have many causes that may range Elmbrook...................262-782-9261 your local County resource. www.ebhs.org from normal age related memory

ADULT DAY SERVICES

• CAREGIVERS GUIDE • 50PLUS • 5B iLOCAL RESOURCE FOR FAMILY CAREGIVERS

Milwaukee County....................414-220-8600 Ozaukee County.......................262-238-8120 ...............................................262-284-8120 Walworth County.....................262-741-3200 Washington County..................877-306-3030 Waukesha County....................262-548-7848 State Wide Toll Free..................866-843-9810

To file a complaint or ask about State regulations contact the Office of Quality Assurance ....................................800-642-6552

CAREGIVER EDUCATION

Caring for an older adult can by highly demanding work. Throughout your caregiving journey, you will have questions related to the many aspects of caring for your loved one. The following websites and phone numbers will provide you with the education, information and support you need. www.caregiversupportnetwork. org www.strengthforcaring.com www.caregiver.com www.caregiving.org www.caregiver.org www.CAREgivinghelp.org i Contact your local county resource for caregiver education that may be available in your community.

CONSUMER PROTECTION

Consumer Protection works to eliminate unfair or deceptive marketplace practices.

To file a complaint against a business contact the Better Business Bureau at................ 1-800-273-1002 ....................................414-847-6000 or www.bbb.org To file a complaint against a nursing home or assisted living facility contact the Office of Quality Assurance at ....................................414-227-5000

6B • 50PLUS • CAREGIVERS GUIDE • OCTOBER 2015

Caregiver Stress Warning Signs

The Leeza Gibbons Memory Foundation – www.leezasplace.org The first step in dealing with caregiver stress is to recognize the signs. Common signs that stress may be affecting your health include:

PHYSICAL SIGNS • Disturbed sleep • Back, shoulder or neck pain, muscle tension • Headaches • Stomach/digestive problems (upset or acid stomach, cramps, heartburn, gas, irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, diarrhea)

• Loss of hair • High blood pressure, irregular heart beat, palpitations • Weight fluctuation (gain or loss) • Chest pain • Fatigue • Perspiration

• Skin disorders (hives, eczema, psoriasis, tics, itching) • Periodontal disease, jaw pain • Reproductive problems/infertility • Weak immune system suppression: more colds, flu, infections • Sexual dysfunction, lack or libido

EMOTIONAL SIGNS • Anxiety • Depression • Moodiness/mood swings • Butterflies • Feeling out of control

• Irritability, easily frustrated, road rage • Argumentative • Feeling of isolation • Memory problems and lack of • Job dissatisfaction concentration • Increased substance abuse • Phobias

FOR MORE INFORMATION Please visit www.leezasplace.org and to take a Caregiver Stress Assessment, please visit

We Can Help.

Living Options Service

FAMILY CAREGIVER SUPPORT NETWORK (414) 220-8600

www.living-options.org • www.caregiversupportnetwork.org • www.interfaithmilw.org

OCTOBER 2015

Concerns with inappropriate marketing and sales practices of Medicare Advantage plan agents contact: The Medigap helpline at ................................ 1-800-242-1060 Wisconsin No Call List prevents telemarketers from calling for two years...................... 1-866-966-2255

DRIVING

DENTAL

For a Comprehensive Driver’s Readiness Evaluation contactAurora Rehabilitation Centers: West Allis Memorial Hospital ....................................414-328-6633 Sinai Medical Center ....................................414-219-5241

As we age, our dental care becomes critical to our over all health and well being. Cost is one of the main reasons older adults do not seek dental care. Below is a list of dental clinics that offer services based on income or at discounted rates.

Driving is affected by a variety of health issues. If you have concerns about your loved one’s driving abilities contact: Driver Services Medical Division at.............1-608-266-2327 For Driver Safety contact www.AARP.org

The Alzheimer’s Association has a variety of information and AIDS Resource Center of WI/ materials.

Dental Clinic ............414-233-6800 For 24/7 information and referral www.arcw.org/dental-clinic/ helpline- contact Alzheimer’s AssoGuadalupe Dental Clinic, Inc ciation at ............... 1-800-272-3900 ....................................414-643-8737

Milwaukee:

EMPLOYMENT SERVICES

Independent Care Health Plan Significant numbers of work(ICare)........................414-231-1067 ing caregivers often need to make adjustments to their work life, from Marquette University Dental reporting late to work, reducing Clinic..........................414-288-6790 hours or giving up work entirely.

Spanish.......................414-288-1520 For information on all State of www.mu.edu/dentistry Wisconsin Job Centers www.wisconsinjobcenter.org/ MATC Dental Hygiene Clinic directory/ ....................................414-297-6573 Milwaukee Milwaukee County Residents/ St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Dental caregivers of any age can get job Clinic..........................414-383-3220 search assistance at the following www.columbia-stmarys.org/ locations: Ann_Seton_Denta Northeast Comprehensive Job Center iContact your local County 1915 N. Martin Luther King Dr resource for another clinic in your Milwaukee, WI 53212 community. ..............................414-267-3291 For a list of Title 19 dentists in your area contact the Greater Milwaukee Dental Association at ....................................414-276-9911 Outside the Milwaukee area contact ................... 1-800-362-3002 Mobile Dental Care ...........................262-786-4819 x222

Job Center Central 4030 N. 29th Street Milwaukee, WI 53216 ..............................888-258-9966 Job Center Northwest ..............................414-760-6060 ..............................414-385-6920

Hire Center www.milwaukeewib.org/ job-seekers/the/hire-center Job Center Southeast 2701 S. Chase Avenue Milwaukee, WI 53207 ..............................414-389-6600 Job Seekers age 55 and over can get assistance at the following locations: Mature Worker Resource Center Washington Park Senior Center 4420 W Vliet Street Milwaukee, WI ..............................414-931-0253 Interfaith Older Adult Programs 600 W. Virginia, Suite 300 Milwaukee, WI 53204 ..............................414-291-7500

Ozaukee

Workforce Development CenterOzaukee County 5555 West Highland Road (P.O. Box 547) Mequon, WI 53092 Phone..................262-238-2880 FAX......................262-238-2890

Walworth

Walworth Job Center 10 E. Centralia Street Elkhorn, WI 53121 Phone..................262-741-5180 FAX......................262-741-5275

Washington

Workforce Development Center Washington County 2200 Green Tree Road West Bend, WI 53095 Phone..................262-335-5300 FAX......................262-335-5321

Waukesha

Workforce Development Center Waukesha County 892 Main Street Pewaukee, WI 53072 Phone..................262-695-7800 FAX......................262-695-7890

• CAREGIVERS GUIDE • 50PLUS • 7B iLOCAL RESOURCE FOR FAMILY CAREGIVERS

Milwaukee County....................414-220-8600 Ozaukee County.......................262-238-8120 ...............................................262-284-8120 Walworth County.....................262-741-3200 Washington County..................877-306-3030 Waukesha County....................262-548-7848 State Wide Toll Free..................866-843-9810

For individuals 55 years of age and older call: Southeastern Area Agency on Aging, Inc. Attn: Older Worker Coordinator 125 N. Executive Drive, Suite 102 Brookfield, WI 53005 Phone:................ 262-821-4444 Southeastern Area Agency on Aging serves all four counties.

They also have a caregiver support program that can supply additional information. iContact your local county resource for Family Caregivers for employment or caregiver reimbursement options.

ELDER ABUSE

Wisconsin Statute 46.90 states that “Elder adult at risk” means any person age 60 or older who has experienced, is currently experiencing, or is at risk of experiencing abuse: Physical Abuse Emotional Abuse Sexual Abuse Treatment without Consent Unreasonable Confinement or Restraint Financial Exploitation Neglect Self-Neglect For Definitions of each of the above: www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/aps/ public/definitions.htm#adultatrisk To report a suspected case of elder abuse or neglect, call your county resource center.i For Milwaukee County call the Aging Resource Center at ....................................414-289-6874 www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/aps/index.htm

8B • 50PLUS • CAREGIVERS GUIDE • OCTOBER 2015

The “I” In Caregiver A member of the Family Caregiver Support Network Advisory Committee once said that as a caregiver people always ask how your mother or father, husband or wife is, but rarely ask how you are doing, so, how are you doing? You are the I in caregiver and only you can answer that question.

Caregiving even for the most independent individual can be and most often is lonely. It is lonely at times even when we have help because it is such an individual thing.

Let’s take the two sisters both willing to assist mom with her groceries. One believes in getting her out and into the store as an outing while the other cannot handle the amount of time it takes to read the new product labels so she prefers to shop for her mother. Sound familiar? Lonely is not a bad thing as long as the feeling of being alone does not create the stress associated with feeling isolated.

Caregiving brings change into our lives. Change brings on stress and impacts our lives in ways we may not even realize. The type of stress we live with depends on whether we have selected a role as victim, survivor or navigator.

Which role do you think you are?

Navigator is where you need to strive to be.

A critical thing to understand about “caregiver stress” is that it is not for sissies. (Wow? A double whammy of i’s.) Stress can not be taken lightly if we want to remain both healthy and our body actually responds in predictable ways:

i All of our senses are heightened. i Our hearing can be more acute and our eyes can dart from side to side. i Our blood pressure and pulse increase and our heart can race. i We breathe more quickly but with more shallow breaths. i Constant stress lowers our immune system. i Our thyroid speeds up and we can feel jittery. i Because we are jittery we can lose weight or because we do not take time to prepare meals, we gain weight from eating out more and/ or not exercising. i We do not produce as many sex hormones so our sex drive decreases. i W e put out more insulin and no longer metabolize sugar well so we have an increased tendency towards diabetes. i O ur cholesterol increases which can lead to an increased chance of stroke and heart disease.

We need to listen to what our bodies are saying to us. The following five suggestions will go a long way to help maintain physical, emotional and spiritual well-being: Exercise is the easiest and most beneficial thing we can do to help our bodies. A regular exercise routine of even 20 minutes a day helps us feel better physically and mentally. It allows us to be alone with our thoughts and we can concentrate on our bodies so we stay well.

We get busy as caregivers and we may not take the time to think about our nutrition, what we are putting into our own bodies, even though we watch what our loved

ones eat very carefully. We may eat out more, eat more fast food or snack more. We may be upset, lose our appetite and eat less. We feel tired and need energy so we eat more sugar and caffeine. We often forget that it is as easy to cut up an apple as it is to dig into the ice cream, and that a glass of water will go a long way toward keeping us hydrated. In addition, it is important to consume enough vitamins, especially from fruits and vegetables.

Taking care of our mental health lets us blow off steam. There is no road map to caregiving; at times it is constant change. Most caregivers say that only other caregivers get it. So how do we hold our emotions in check? How and to whom do we express our anxieties and still feel safe? Who will listen?

For some caregivers the answer is to join a caregiver support group.

For others, it is seeing a therapist.

(Our office has lists of both.) We once asked a large group of caregivers at a conference what helps them through their days? 85 percent said their “faith.” Most believe they do not walk their journey alone and without spirituality they would not make it through most days. Prayer can be a form of meditation. It causes mental relaxation. People also find their strength through worship, prayer, song and fellowship. Prayer and meditation help to counteract many of the negative symptoms of stress.

Lastly, reclaim you life to include caregiver but not to be only a caregiver. You are the daughter or son, wife or husband who is now also a caregiver. Write down all the

roles that you now have and remember you should have no more than seven, including that of caregiver. Once you have done that, can you …Take a class? Plant a garden?

Walk your dog? Go fishing? Get a job? …and somehow remember there is no i in stress….only in caregiver.

Interfaith Older Adult Program’s Family Caregiver Support - 414.220.8600 – www.interfaithmilw.org www.living-options.org www.caregiversupportnetwork.org

Caregiver’s Code I need to…

Take care of my self physically, emotionally, spiritually; Accept my limitations and be satisfied with doing my best; Recognize and get help, no matter how difficult that may be; Enjoy time away without guilt; Maintain relationships with friends, family, co-workers; Set goals, pursue dreams and remember to live life.

A prepared, informed and supported family caregiver provides better self and older adult care.

OCTOBER 2015

FAITH/SPIRITUALITY

iFor information on how to talk As a caregiver you may draw with your loved one about funeral your strength each day from your arrangements, contact your local church, synagogue, mosque and county resource for Family Careother faith based groups to help givers. you manage your daily caregiving Talk with your funeral home of challenges. choice about the burial assistance program offered through your iContact your local county resource for Family Caregivers for county.

Caregiver Retreat Information or iFor more information contact to find out about respite options your your local county resources. that would allow the caregiver to attend church.

In Milwaukee contact the Benefit

FINANCIAL ISSUES

As seniors age, many struggle to keep up with their finances. Some pay their bills late or forget entirely.

It is uncomfortable for children— no matter if they are 30, 40 or 50— to ask if their parents are struggling to pay their bills. Below is a list of tools and resources available that will assist the caregiver with financial issues.

Specialists of Legal Action for burial trust information......414-278-7722

GERIATRIC ASSESSMENT

Progressive memory loss, a decline in eating or isolation from family or friends is not a normal part of the aging process, and often family members are the first to notice that something is wrong.

Early detection and intervention is crucial as many symptoms are reversible. A Geriatric Assessment For information on services that offers a comprehensive approach to may be available through Medicare dealing with the problems, which and Medicaid and information on includes a multidisciplinary team all benefit programs in Milwaukee to diagnose and treat all types of County, contact Senior Law Benefit memory and health issues. Below Specialist of Legal Action at is a list of geriatric clinics or talk ....................................414-278-1222 with your family physician about options available in your area. iContact your local county resource for Family Caregivers Froedtert Memory Disorders or for Benefit Specialists in other Program ....................414-805-3666 counties.

Aurora Center for Senior Health Money management services are ....................................414-219-7300 available through Aurora Center for Financial Wellness at GERIATRIC CARE MAN....................................414-482-8801

AGEMENT AND SUPPORT

Geriatric Care managers can provide coordinated care Preplanning a funeral allows management for caregivers who an individual to express their views live near or far. They have extenin the selection of services that sive knowledge about quality, costs, best fit their beliefs and desires. and availability of services in your Preplanning can save a family 50% community and can connect you or more on funeral and burial arwith the services that will be right rangements. for you or a loved one. Professional Geriatric Care Managers generally charge a fee and can be found throughout the country.

FUNERAL AND BURIAL

iContact your local county resource for a list of Care Managers in your area.

Consumers may locate geriatric care managers throughout the Untied States by visiting www.aginglifecare.org

GRANDPARENTS AND OTHER RELATIVES RAISING MINORS

Researchers tell us that grandparents and other relatives raising children 18 and under are one of the fastest growing types of families in America. This is due to a number of reasons - death, divorce, mental health, crime/jail, drugs and alcohol. The courts would prefer to remove a child from their biological parent(s) and place them with a family member if at all possible.

This situation knows no racial or economic boundaries. It is estimated that 1 in 12 children are being raised by a ‘grandparent’. The National Family Caregiver Program has been asked to work with Grandparents 55+. iContact your County Aging / Family Caregiver Program for possible respite options, support groups, workshops and other local resources.

• CAREGIVERS GUIDE • 50PLUS • 9B iLOCAL RESOURCE FOR FAMILY CAREGIVERS

Milwaukee County....................414-220-8600 Ozaukee County.......................262-238-8120 ...............................................262-284-8120 Walworth County.....................262-741-3200 Washington County..................877-306-3030 Waukesha County....................262-548-7848 State Wide Toll Free..................866-843-9810

GRIEF RESOURCES

It is natural to grieve the death of a loved one before, during and after the actual time of their passing. The process of accepting the unacceptable is what grieving is all about. For support groups and to learn about resources for anticipatory grief, ambiguous loss, grief at death, chronic illness and loss, symptoms and stages of grief and helping those who are grieving, visit: www.cargiver.org

Caregiver Education Fact Sheets; caregiving issues and strategies; grief and loss.

If you have been involved with a hospice program, take advantage of their grief education and support. Or contact Horizon Home Care and Hospice Grief Resource Center ....................................414-586-8383

HEALTH CARE CLINICS

Many times individuals earn just enough income to be ineligible Also in Milwaukee contact: for Medicaid coverage, yet do not Gary Dobbs Family Center receive health insurance through ....................................414-265-2222 their employers and cannot afford Grandparents Support Group to pay for “out of pocket” health ....................................414-220-8600 insurance. Often, these individuals Kids Matter are forced to seek treatment at local ....................................414-344-1220 emergency rooms and become sadwww.kidsmatterinc.org dled with medical bills that they are Legal and social service information not able to afford. Free or reduced AARP fee medical clinics fill the gap in w w w. a a r p . o r g / f a m i l i e s / healthcare access for the uninsured. grandparents Parenting Network Helpline iFor a list of free or reduced fee clinics in your area contact your ....................................414-671-0566 county aging services or 211. www.theparentingnetwork.org For a list of free medical clinics The Women’s Center - Waukesha in your area contact ....................................262-547-4600 www.freemedicalcamps.com

10B • 50PLUS • CAREGIVERS GUIDE • OCTOBER 2015

The Caregiving Experience Why is the Caregiving Experience Different for Everyone?

Did you ever notice that your caregiving experience is different than that of even a very close sibling or friend? Have you wondered why your father will not let anyone in to help with mom? Information from www.extension.org tells us that caregiving experiences are just as unique as the people involved.

Each caregiver has different needs, feelings, challenges and rewards.

And each family member’s relationship with the care receiver is unique, influencing expectations and the overall caregiver experience. Much has been learned about the differences in these experiences as the result of a growing body of research. For example: i Men tend to think about and approach caregiving differently than women. i Husbands and wives differ from adult children or other relatives in what they do, how they do it, how long they do it, and when they consider letting others help.

Each of us forms personal expectations of ourselves as caregivers. These expectations are shaped by past experiences and observations, societal rules, our cultural heritage and our own family rules.

Caregiving can affect us in multiple ways. It can cause changes in physical and emotional health, finances, and time available to participate in other family, social, work, leisure or community activities.

Caregiving can be stressful at times. Yet, people who perform the same task may have very different experiences. One person might feel

very uncomfortable emptying a commode, while someone else may not give it a second thought. Caregivers also experience different types and levels of stress over time.

Rhonda Montgomery, PhD, has been studying family caregiving experiences for more than 20 years with her colleague Karl Kosloski, PhD. Out of their work has emerged a theory called Caregiver Identity Change. It says the caregiving experience over time involves a process of change in activities, responsibilities, and in the partner-like relationship between the caregiver and person receiving care. It also involves a change in the way the person giving care views him or herself in relation to the person being cared for. This new role grows out of the earlier relationship between the two care partners.

The Caregiving Journey Changes You The caregiving role unfolds over time as the caregiver takes on greater responsibility, helping with everyday household affairs, personal care and decisions. Caregiving involves an identity change process. At some point, the person providing care begins to identify himself or herself as a caregiver in addition to being a wife, a son or other kind of relationship. The journey is different for each person in terms of when and how we begin to identify ourselves as caregivers.

Caregivers who are providing assistance for a short period of time may never see themselves as a caregiver, while those providing care for years may see themselves and act more like a caregiver than spouse

or adult child. This is reflected in a statement repeated by many adult children: “I feel as if I’m the parent now and not the child.” They have assumed a caregiving identity and lost their identity as an adult child to their parent.

Personal rules and expectations play an important part in how we each feel about what we are doing in the caregiving role. Montgomery and Kosloski find caregivers experience increased levels of stress when a mismatch occurs between what they are doing and what they think they should be doing on behalf of the individual receiving care. Often, the source of distress is not the activity itself, but how the caregiver feels about it. The first step to lowering caregiver distress is to identify its source. Once this happens, caregivers can work toward reaching a new comfort level. A number of strategies have been shown to help reduce caregiver distress: i Adjusting or modifying the expectations we have of ourselves. i Changing what we are currently doing--perhaps by making room to let others help or by letting go of some current responsibilities. i Changing the way we view or judge our own actions.

Share Your Caregiving Journey with Others through Research Montgomery and Kosloski’s research on the differences in caregiving experiences continues to move forward with the help of a national caregiver registry called the League of Experienced Family Caregivers.

The purpose of the League is to help create better services and resources

to support family caregivers.

Caregivers share their knowledge and insights by completing brief questionnaires in one of three ways--telephone interviews, mailin surveys or online. More than 1,000 caregivers are currently enrolled. If you would like to join log on at: www.familycaregivers.uwm. edu or call toll free 800-410-2586.

Reprinted with permission from the UW Extension’s “extension” website.

Interfaith Older Adult Programs Caregiver Support 414.220.8600 – www.interfaithmilw.org www.caregiversupportnetwork.org www.living-options.org

CAN YOU ANSWER “YES” TO ANY OF THESE QUESTIONS? Are you concerned about an older adult who lives nearby or at a distance, either at home or in a facility?

Do you help with grocery shopping, housekeeping, rides, doctors appointments, bills or insurance?

Do you help with feeding, bathing, dressing or supervision?

Are you concerned about someone who isn’t taking care of him or herself?

Are you using all your own sick leave or vacation time to help or care for someone?

WE CALL THAT CAREGIVING.

OCTOBER 2015

health care team of doctors, nurses, social workers, home health aides, the age of 65 report problems with Today’s older adult wants to clergy, therapists and trained volhearing. Persistent failure to un- grow old at home, the place he/she unteers care for you. derstand what is being said can lead feels most comfortable. Assistance iSee your local yellow pages to frustration, discouragement and with homemaking, personal needs under “Hospice” or talk with your embarrassment. Two of the most and transportation can help an older County resource. common consequences of hearing adult maintain independence.

HOUSING impairment in the elderly are deSoutheastern Wisconsin has pression and withdrawal. iContact your county resource to a wide variety of housing options. discuss options or for resources Contact your county resource to Contact the Center for Communi- for homemaking and healthcare discuss the options available to you. providers. cation, Hearing and Deafness for Contact the County Resource information on the wide variety of – Living Options Services for inforHOARDING services offered...................................

Hoarding is generally charac- mation on all types of living options 414-604-2200 terized as obtaining and refusing for older adults to throw out a large number of ....................................414-220-8600 HOME MAINTENANCE / items that would normally appear ................................ 1-800-449-4481 CHORES www.living-options.org Although the average elderly to be worthless, hazardous, or unindividual would prefer to remain sanitary. Living spaces become Contact United States in their own home; frailty, chronic significantly cluttered and prevent Department of Housing and Urban activities for which those spaces illness, and disability often prevent this dream from materializing. Be- were designed. Hoarding can be Development (HUD) for area low is a list of programs available a contentious issue among family information on low income housing. to help the elderly remain in their members adding stress and frus- ....................................414-297-3214 tration to an already sensitive issue. homes.

For information on housing Volunteer chore services and While the exact underlying causes of hoarding are unknown, there are available for individuals with resource information: Independence First (main office) i some underlying factors including: disabilities contact Independence ....................................414-291-7520 OCD, ADHD, Psychosis, and De- First at .......................414-291-7520 For volunteering see older adult mentia.

Catholic Charities in Home iSee your local yellow pages services on page 15B. Support Program......414-771-2881 under “Hospice” or talk with your Covers Milwaukee and Wauke- county resource. iA resource serving people with sha Counties. disabilities in Milwaukee, OzauINSURANCE - MEDICARE kee, Washington, Waukesha iContact your local county reCounties: For information on different souce for assistance.

Your county resource may have types of insurance options, see the For information, resources and list: other options available to you. professional tools visit www.milwaukeehoarding.wee- Medicare information, ordering HOME SAFETY bly.com Each year older adults are inMedicare booklets, and information jured in and around their homes. about health plans, contact HOSPICE Many of these injuries result from ................................ 1-800-633-4223 The hospice philosophy hazards that are easy to overlook 24 hours a day, 7 days a week recognizes death as the final stage but easy to fix. of life and seeks to enable patients Medigap / HMO Hotline / Spousal iContact your county resource for to continue an alert, pain-free Impoverishment................................. a list of agencies that will do home life and to manage other symp- ................................ 1-800-242-1060 safety assessments and offer home toms so that their last days may Provides Information on Medisafety check lists. be spent with dignity and quality, care Insurance, Long Term Care surrounded by their loved ones. Insurance Home Health Care InsurContact the family caregiver Hospice care can be given in the ance and other health insurance that support network website at www. patient’s home, a hospital, nursing might be available prior to Medicare. caregiversupportnetwork.org for home, or private hospice facility. Community Insurance a home safety check list.

Typically, an interdisciplinary

HEARING RESOURCES

HOMEMAKING AND At least 25% of individuals over HEALTHCARE

• CAREGIVERS GUIDE • 50PLUS • 11B iLOCAL RESOURCE FOR FAMILY CAREGIVERS

Milwaukee County....................414-220-8600 Ozaukee County.......................262-238-8120 ...............................................262-284-8120 Walworth County.....................262-741-3200 Washington County..................877-306-3030 Waukesha County....................262-548-7848 State Wide Toll Free..................866-843-9810

Information Center 700 West Michigan Street, Suite 350, 53233 ....................................414-291-5360 Information on car, home (non Medicare) health and renters’ insurance. Hours are Mon. 1:00 p.m-4:00 p.m. Tues.- Thurs.8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Railroad Retirement Board 310 West Wisconsin Avenue Suite 1300 53203 ....................................877-772-5772 Retirement unemployment and sickness program Senior Care............ 1-800-657-2038 Prescription drug assistance program for Wisconsin residents 65+ who meet eligibility criteria.

Veteran’s Insurance Information .......

................................ 1-800-669-8477 Veteran’s Affairs Regional Office 5000 W. National, Milwaukee, WI 53295 .............................. 1-800-827-1000

Wisconsin Medicaid

For assistance with Title 19 and SSI-E applications and financial assistance for individuals 60 and older contact the Benefit Specialist through your County resource.

LEGAL MATTERS

There are a variety of personal legal matters regarding health and finances which need to be taken care of. This can best be done by an Elder Law Attorney. Elder Law Attorneys specialize in age related legal matters and problems including qualifying for public benefit

12B • 50PLUS • CAREGIVERS GUIDE • OCTOBER 2015 programs, long term care, estate planning, advance directives and guardianship issues. Your local county resource may have a list or call: Milwaukee Bar Association’s Referral Service....... 414-274-6768 www.findmilwaukeelawyers.org

May discuss legal matters and or seek a referral to an attorney in Milwaukee and surrounding counties.

National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys...................703-942-5711 www.naela.com

LGBT CAREGIVING

As American’s live longer, greater attention is being paid to the concerns facing aging adults and caregivers. Some unique considerations arise for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) people dealing with aging. For information on topics such as finding supportive health service providers, dealing with your employer, and caring for an LGBT spouse, domestic partner or friend, the following resources may be helpful: The Milwaukee LGBT Community Center........................414-271-2656 ...................................292-3070(SAGE) www.mkelgbt.org/programs/ adults www.caregiver.com Under caregiver education fact sheets, “Special Concerns of LGBT Caregivers”

LIFELINES - MEDICAL ALARMS

Telephone monitoring systems assist seniors in their home in case of a medical emergency. When a subscriber activates a monitoring pendant, the monitoring agency immediately contacts the subscriber as to inquire the type of assistance needed. Emergency Medical Technicians and personal emergency contacts are notified if the subscriber is unable to respond.

Contact telephone monitoring agency for listing of other monitor- MEDICAID/ T-19 ing services offered as well.

For assistance with Title 19 and SSI-E applications and iContact your county resource for financial assistance for individuals more options.

60 and older, contact the Benefit Specialist through your county LONG-DISTANCE Aging and Disability Resource CAREGIVING Centers (ADRCs).

For those If you are providing care or 18-59 contact your ADRC. See assistance to a person who lives “Older Adult Services ” ADRC an hour or more away, you are section in this directory. “long-distance caregiving”. You You may apply for Medicaid may be paying bills on line, ar- by mail, telephone or in person. To ranging for services and appoint- obtain an application or apply in ments over the phone, commu- person, contact your county aging nicating with service providers; a service number. care center, the bank, a pharmacy, neighbors, friends, relatives or even For information on the Medicaid driving or flying in when there are program contact their website at http://dhfs.wisconsin.gov/medappointments or “emergencies”.

Please know that you are not alone icaid/index.htm in your efforts. There may be as many as 7 million people caregiv- If you are unsure of where or how ing at a distance in the US. Pro- to obtain an application or need grams and services are growing in help in completing an application, the understanding of your efforts call Recipient Services at................. . and dilemmas. Don’t be afraid to ................................ 1-800-362-3002 seek out the National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP) in MEDICAL EQUIPMENT The Independence First Moyour community or the community of your care receiver for informa- bility Store, formerly Wheelchair tion, assistance to access services, Recycling Program (WRP), is an education, support, respite and non-profit program that offers low cost, refurbished and sanitized mosupplemental services. bility and medical equipment to those who lack the resources to acWisconsin Caregiving ................................ 1-866-843-9810 quire new equipment. It also offers a selection of low-cost new equipwww.wisconsincaregiver.org ment.

Eldercare Locater ................................ 1-800-677-1116 Greater Milwaukee Area, www.eldercare.gov 3720 N. 124th Street, Unit F Publication: So Far Away Wauwatosa National Institute on Aging # 10..............................414-988-5333 5496............................800-222-2225 gma@ifmobility.org www.nia.nih.gov (search for So Far Away) Independence First Assistive Geriatric Care Managers Technology www.caremanager.org ....................................414-291-7520 www.independencefirst.org iContact your local county resource for NFCSP services, additional suggestions and assistance Experienced staff has informain seeking help to move someone tion on assistive technology and closer to you. adaptive equipment. The Try-AGadget Center offers 700+ items

iLOCAL RESOURCE FOR FAMILY CAREGIVERS

Milwaukee County....................414-220-8600 Ozaukee County.......................262-238-8120 ...............................................262-284-8120 Walworth County.....................262-741-3200 Washington County..................877-306-3030 Waukesha County....................262-548-7848 State Wide Toll Free..................866-843-9810

to try. Formal and informal assessments, advocacy, information and referral, and equipment trials are services available through this program. iContact your county resource for more options.

MENTAL HEALTH AND COUNSELING

For both the caregiver and or the care receiver.

Nearly 20% of those who are 55 years and older experience mental disorders that are not part of normal aging. Most common disorders are anxiety, severe cognitive impairment and mood disorders.

The rate of suicide is highest among older adults compared to any other age group.

Nearly one out of every four U.S. households provides care to a relative or friend aged 50 or older.

Studies show that caregivers experience a sense of burden and estimated 46% are clinically depressed.

Center for Psychological Services ....................................414-288-3487 at Marquette University Mental Health Association in Milwaukee County.........414-276-3122 Resources for prevention in mental health.

NAMI Wisconsin, Inc. Greater Milwaukee Office ....................................414-344-0447 State Office............ 1-800-236-2988 Waukesha Office.......262-524-8886 www.NAMIwisconsin.org NAMI is an advocacy, referral and support group, founded for people with mental Illness and their families. NAMI also has ed-

OCTOBER 2015

ucational programs. Everything is free of charge. iContact your local county resource for Family Caregivers for other counseling services within your community.

NURSING HOMES

Nursing Homes and Health Care Centers are skilled nursing facilities designed to meet the needs of persons convalescing from illness or surgery or to provide longterm care which is not appropriate for a hospital or available through other alternatives. All persons entering a nursing home do so under physicians’ orders. Their care is supervised by nurses and other professionals under the direction of a physician. Facilities may offer special programs in rehabilitation, mental health, developmental disabilities, Alzheimer’s, hospice and subacute care. Along with meeting long term care needs they may offer outpatient services for rehabilitation, respite care (1-28 days) and short term or recuperative care (190 days).

State of Wisconsin Office of Quality Assurance................. 414-227-5000 Call to ask questions about nursing home regulations or file a formal complaint about a facility in southeastern Wisconsin.

mation tailored to their situation.

The ADRC provides information on a broad range of programs and services (home care/chores, home delivered meals, transportation, housing, financial assistance, elder abuse and much more), helps Medigap Hotline people understand the various ................................ 1-800-242-1060 long term care options available to Information on spousal impov- them, helps people apply for proerishment, nursing home insurance grams and benefits, and serves as and other ways nursing home care the access point for publicly-fundmay be paid for. ed long term care. These services can be provided at the ADRC, via Nursing home inspection reports/ telephone, or through a home visprovider search website it, whichever is more convenient to www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/bqa- the individual seeking help. consumer/search.htm www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/adrc/

NUTRITION-DIETICIANS, MEALS ON WHEELS/ HOME DELIVERED MEALS

Milwaukee County DRC............................414-289-6660 (age 18-59) A significant number of elder- ARC............................414-289-6874 ly fail to get the amounts and types (age 60+) of food necessary to meet essential Ozaukee County.......262-284-8120 energy and nutrient needs. There is Walworth County.....262-741-3400 evidence that good nutrition pro- Washington County motes vitality and independence ....................................262-335-4497 whereas poor nutrition can prolong Waukesha County....262-548-7848 recovery from illness and lead to a For aging and caregiver relesser quality of life. sources anywhere in the country contact iContact your county resource the Eldercare Locater 211 or Milwaukee County ................................ 1-800-677-1116 414-289-6874 for a list of meal www.eldercare.gov sites and providers of home delivered meals.

OLDER ADULT SERVICES

Family Caregiver Support Network: Living Options services ....................................414-220-8600 ................................ 1-800-449-4481 Assists when exploring options Outside Milwaukee or needing to select a facility by proFor aging and caregiver reviding Federal and State inspection report information, touring check sources anywhere in the counlists and more information on facil- try contact the Eldercare Locater ities (size, rates, smoking, a religious number at ............. 1-800-677-1116 www.eldercare.gov affiliation) in southeastern Wisconsin.

OLDER ADULT SERVICES Ombudsman Program – State of ADRC AND VOLUNTEER Wisconsin.............. 1-800-815-0015 “Ombudsman” means ‘advocate’. Ombudsman acts as advocate in licensed facilities such as nursing homes on behalf of residents and/ or their families. Leave a message including the facility name so that your call can be routed to an Ombudsman assigned to the facility you are referring to.

Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) provide accurate, unbiased information on all aspects of life related to aging or living with a disability. ADRCs are friendly, welcoming places where anyone - individuals, concerned families or friends, or professionals working with issues related to aging or disabilities - can go for infor-

• CAREGIVERS GUIDE • 50PLUS • 13B iLOCAL RESOURCE FOR FAMILY CAREGIVERS

Milwaukee County....................414-220-8600 Ozaukee County.......................262-238-8120 ...............................................262-284-8120 Walworth County.....................262-741-3200 Washington County..................877-306-3030 Waukesha County....................262-548-7848 State Wide Toll Free..................866-843-9810

Ozaukee County ....................................262-376-5362 Waukesha - Interfaith Senior Programs ....................................262-549-3348 Washington County - Interfaith Caregivers of Washington County ....................................262-365-0902 Wisconsin InterFaith In Action Network www.wifian.org

PODIATRY

Foot care is of utmost importance in older adults because of the need for ambulation and mobility.

Circulation to the lower portions of the body tends to decrease with age. Decreased circulation, coupled with diminished sensation, can lead to skin breakdown and infections. Older adults are less agile and may experience difficulty in maintaining good hygiene of the feet. Many times podiatry services are covered by insurance, depending upon your medical condition.

At home services are also available.

iContact your county resource for more information or talk with your

BY VOLUNTEERS There has been a long stand- primary care physician. ing tradition of “neighbor helping neighbor” in Wisconsin. Because PUBLICATIONS AARP - American Association of active lifestyles, it is often volunof Retired Persons teers who assist with friendly visits, Yearly membership & receive the phone calls, transportation, shopmonthly newsletter “Bulletin” and ping, chores and other “neighborly” activities. Organized through the “Modern Maturity” magazine, churches and other community free brochures & discounts.

Membership Processing Center groups, older adults are assisted P. O. Box 199 to remain independent in their Long Beach, CA 90801 homes. www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/adrc/ 50 Plus News Magazine Milwaukee - Interfaith Older P. O. Box 230 Adults Program Hartland WI 53029 ....................................414-291-7500 ..............................262-367-5303 Ozaukee - Interfaith Caregivers of

14B • 50PLUS • CAREGIVERS GUIDE • OCTOBER 2015 Today’s Caregiver ..............................800-829-2734 A bi-monthly publication providing information, support and guidance for family and professional caregivers. iContact your local county resource for Family Caregivers to subscribe to a free caregiver newsletter within your community.

RELOCATION/MOVING

Making the decision to relocate (move) can be a welcome decision or a traumatic one. Many procrastinate because the thought of all the work to move, even where to move, is overwhelming. There is a complete series of resources available to provide assistance all along the way.

County social workers and other professionals can help determine the best level of care. Placement services, most of which do not charge a fee, can assist in finding a new ‘home’. A number of realtors have chosen to be certified as a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) and other companies are available to assist with packing, and all the details of moving.

Facilities that offer respite, you new information. It can offer an do not need to live in Milwaukee atmosphere of understanding and County. support.

St. Ann Center for Intergenerational Care ....................................414-977-5000 Based on assessment, provides both adult day and overnight services to people 18 years and older who have disabilities and special needs. Care is provided 24 hours a day, seven days a week for up to 20 days. Reservations accepted

iContact your local county resource for information on the many support groups in your area.

Alzheimer’s Support Groups ....................................800-272-3900 www.alz.org/sewi

TRANSPORTATION

Without effective transportation, many individuals cannot acSILVER ALERT PROGRAM cess medical appointments, shop Wisconsin’s Silver Alert law for necessities and may be isolated (Act 264) took affect August 2015. in their home. This presents health Similar to an Amber Alert, Silver and safety risks for some and may Alerts will go out by e-mail, cell result in the elderly being forced phone, text, or fax through the from their homes before they need Wisconsin Crime Alert Network to to be, solely because of the lack of notify the public that an adult with transportation.

Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other permanent cognitive impairment iContact your county resource is missing. Anyone may subscribe for transportation options in your on-line to receive Silver Alerts and area.

Crime Alerts for free by e-mail, cell, VETERANS BENEFITS text or fax. Visit Eligibility for most VA benefits www.wisconsincrimealert.gov is based upon discharge from active SOCIALIZATION military service under other than Exposure to social and phys- dishonorable conditions. Active iContact your county resource. ical activity improves cognitive service means full-time service as performance and sleep quality in a member of the Army, Navy, Air Family Caregiver Support Network the elderly. Maintenance of social Force, Marine Corps, and Coast – Living Options Service engagement and avoidance of so- Guard. Generally, men and women ....................................414-220-8600 cial isolation are important factors veterans with similar service may ................................ 1-800-449-4481 in maintaining cognitive vitality in be entitled to the same VA benefits. old age. There are many opportu- Benefits will also be based on conRESPITE CARE nities for social interaction which flict, time served and if a sustained Respite service allows caregiv- include adult day programs, senior injury had occurred. ers to have free time for themselves centers, friendly visitors, and telewhile their loved ones receive assis- phone reassurance, to name a few. Kenosha County Veteran’s tance when needed. Respite serService Office vices are available in a variety of op- iContact your county resource to 8600 Sheridan Rd., Suite 700 tions, ranging from a few hours to discuss appropriate options or for Kenosha, WI 53143-6516 several weeks. They can be offered a list of programs in your area. ....................................262-605-6690 within the home, group home or Milwaukee County Veteran’s nursing home, depending upon the SUPPORT GROUPS Service Office level of care needed. Each service For both the caregiver and the VA Hospital Grounds, Bldg. 6 has a different rate of cost, some care receiver, support groups can 6419 W. Greenfield Ave. services offer a sliding scale fee. help with the well being of one’s West Allis, WI 53214 physical and mental health. A sup- ....................................414-266-1234 iContact your county resource port group is one way to share your Ozaukee County Veteran’s for respite services and or a list of troubles, exchange ideas and gain Service Office facilities that offer respite.

iLOCAL RESOURCE FOR FAMILY CAREGIVERS

Milwaukee County....................414-220-8600 Ozaukee County.......................262-238-8120 ...............................................262-284-8120 Walworth County.....................262-741-3200 Washington County..................877-306-3030 Waukesha County....................262-548-7848 State Wide Toll Free..................866-843-9810

121 W. Main St., Rm 237 PO Box 994 Port Washington, WI 53074-0994 ....................................262-238-8326 Racine County Veteran’s Service Office 209 N. Main Street Burlington, WI 53105 ....................................262-767-2900 Walworth County Veteran’s Service Office PO Box 1001, 100 W. Walworth Elkhorn, WI 53121 ....................................262-741-4222 Washington County Veteran’s Service Office 432 E. Washington St. Rm 2006 West Bend, WI 53095 ....................................262-335-4457 ....................................800-616-0446 Waukesha County Veteran’s Service Office 500 Riverview Ave., Rm. G138 Waukesha, WI 53188-3680 ....................................262-548-7732

VISION RESOURCES

As we age, the quality of our vision diminishes naturally. Most changes typically are not severe, and a new prescription for glasses or a few adaptations, such as improved lighting, may be all that is needed. Eye care is important. Only a doctor can detect certain vision changes when you cannot—before symptoms become noticeable.

Wisconsin Regional Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped ....................................414-286-3045 ................................ 1-800-242-8822 Sends books postage free, loans cassette players and much more at no charge.

OCTOBER 2015

• CAREGIVERS GUIDE • 50PLUS • 15B

Appleton couple wins $10,000 social innovation prizen in Wisconsin for dementia work MILWAUKEE — September 17, 2015 — Interfaith Older Adult Programs is honored to announce that Susan McFadden, PhD and Rev. John McFadden, M.Div, are the winners of the 2015 Social Innovation Prize in Wisconsin. Susan, 66, and John, 67, of Appleton, Wis., are two of the co-originators of the state’s leading dementia friendly/capable community, The Fox Valley Memory Project (FVMP), and will receive $10,000 to continue their work.

One of the FVMP’s primary goals is to educate and create more open communication about dementia in an attempt to end the stigma and social isolation that is often associated with it. Susan and John are highly respected for their vast knowledge, commitment, and personal investment in building and nurturing friendly communities where those with dementia are welcomed and supported.

“They believe that, even in advanced dementia, people can live in communities that honor their personhood, provide opportunities for creative expression, and support the fundamental human need for meaning and relationships,” said Beth Belmore,

Chair, Executive Coordinating Committee, FVMP, in her nomination for the duo.

Just a few of the FVMP’s services include: operating seven memory cafes that help hundreds of people; providing educational roundtables; and training senior living community staff in new and creative engagement programs such as Poetry Project, TimeSlips, and drumming circles.

The impact of the FVMP is undeniable. Belmore reports that participants who take part in activities have a sense of being part of something and belonging. By being involved in their community, quality of life has improved for both the person with memory loss, as well as their caregivers.

The idea for a more dementia-supportive community started in 2011. Susan had learned about Great Britain’s memory cafes, and she and John traveled there, putting nearly 900 miles on a rental car to experience and learn more about memory cafes. They brought home what they learned, and the FVMP was born.

Most recently, the McFaddens presented at the 25th Annual Conference of Alzheimer Europe in Ljubljana, Slovenia, in early September. They also have a blog, “Aging Together: Dementia, Friendship & Flourishing Communities.” Both plan to continue volunteering and advocating for creative engagement opportunities in memory cafes, long-term care communities and private homes.

“We move forward with hope for the continued growth of the FVMP,” Susan said. “The need is great and there’s much to do.”

The FVMP is based out of Appleton, Wis. Learn more at foxvalleymemoryproject.org.

This year, Interfaith received a record number of nominations for the Social Innovation Prize. All 2015 nominees are eligible for the national Civic Ventures “The Purpose Prize,” which provides five awards of $100,000 each to people over 60 who are taking on society’s biggest challenges. It’s for those with the passion and experience to discover new opportunities, create new programs, and make lasting change.

Vision Forward ....................................414-615-0100 Local outlet for equipment, offers advocacy and organizations for the blind.

County Aging Services:

Social Security www.ssa.gov Medicare www.medicare.gov/caregivers AARP www.aarp.org/families/caregiving National Alliance for Caregiving www.caregiving.org National Caregiver Alliance www.caregiver.org Wisconsin Caregiver www.wisconsincaregiver.org

iContact your County resource for services in your area.

WEBSITES

Interfaith www.interfaithmilw.org (support for family caregivers tab) Family Caregiver Support Network www.caregiversupportnetwork. org

Milwaukee

www.county.milwaukee.gov/Aging

Ozaukee

www.co.ozaukee.wi.us/Aging/

Walworth

www.co.walworth.wi.us

Washington

www.co.washington.wi.us/adrc

Waukesha

www.waukeshacounty.gov/adrc Living Options www.living-options.org Elder Locator www.eldercare.gov/Eldercare/ Public/Home.asp

ABOUT INTERFAITH OLDER ADULT PROGRAMS Since 1975, Interfaith responds to the current physical and social challenges of aging by providing innovative programs, successful solutions, and the often much needed extra helping hand. Learn more at interfaithmilw. org.

ABOUT THE SOCIAL INNOVATION PRIZE The Social Innovation Prize in Wisconsin honors adults 60 and older who are defying expectations by channeling their creativity and talent to address critical social problems at the local, regional, or national level. This award was initiated by honoring the creative vision and committed service of the late Fred Lindner and those that follow in his footsteps. Lindner’s extensive work on behalf of the elderly, his lifelong commitment to justice and fairness, and his innumerable contributions to the aging network — both locally and statewide — is the inspiration that has motivated the Helen Bader Foundation, The Social Innovation Prize Planning Committee, and the Fred Lindner family to offer this prize.

16B • 50PLUS • CAREGIVERS GUIDE • OCTOBER 2015

Staying at Home Responsibly Cost Sheet/Expenses Family Caregiver Support Network For Family Members and Friends Who Help or Care For Older Adults Compare the costs of bringing private pay services into the Home vs. Assisted Living at $2,200-$5,000 a month and Nursing Home care at $5,000+ per month.

Service Provided*

Home Delivered Meals (1-2x/day, 7 days a week)

Cost Per Day/Hour/Service

$6.00/Meal

Cost Per Week

Total $57.00-$99.00 $57.00-$78.00

$168.00-$336.00 +$60.00 Shipping (If shipped weekly) Total $228.00-$396.00 $228.00-$312.00

$18.00-$34.00

$72.00-$136.00

$7.00 Round Trip (Taxi Rides Transportation Using Milwaukee County’s Transit Plus May Exceed This Amount) (2x/week) (414) 343-1700

$14.00

$56.00

Adult Day Service (2x/week)

$100.00-$150.00

$400.00-$600.00

1x Installation Fee of $50.00-$99.00 (Sometimes Waived) Chore Service for Snow, Leaves $10.00-$25.00 etc. (1x/week) Medication Monitoring System 1x Installation Fee of $99.00 through Life Line

$7.00-$9.00

$35.00-$45.00

$10.00-$25.00

$40.00-$100.00

$12.50

$50.00

Grand Totals

$275.50-$421.50

$1,109.00-$1,695.00

Homemaking and/or Personal $19.00-$26.00 Care (1x/week) (Usually 3 hr. Minimum) Bathing Service (1x/week)

Life Line Alert Service

$18.00-$34.00/Bath

$50.00-$70.00/Day

$42.00-$84.00 + $15.00 shipping/week

Cost Per Month

Don’t forget to add up the other costs of living at home such as utilities, taxes, home maintenance etc. in addition to these supportive services. Then compare the total to a facility that offers it all under one roof. The Family Caregiver Support Network’s Living at Home Expense Sheet (Next Page) can be helpful in adding up the costs you already incur living at home.

Remember that with supportive in-home services you can adjust the type and amount of care to your needs. Your monthly totals may be different than the example above based on which services, how many and how much you choose or can afford to use. *There may be government assisted or volunteer services available to help offset the costs of some of these services. Contact the Family Caregiver Support Network (414) 220-8600, or the local Aging Resource Center of Milwaukee County (414) 289-6874 for more information on what may be available. **As supportive care needs increase to skilled care needs or if 24-hour care becomes necessary, a higher skilled assisted living or nursing facility may be a viable alternative to meet the senior’s needs safely.

OCTOBER 2015

• CAREGIVERS GUIDE • 50PLUS • 17B

Living at Home Monthly Expense Sheet Family Caregiver Support Network For Family Members and Friends Who Help or Care For Older Adults Supportive In-Home Care

Home

Mortgage/Rent Property Tax Homeowners/Renters Insurance Association Fees Home Security Home Maintenance/Repairs Invisible Mortgage* Monthly Total

Meals Homemaking/Personal Care Transportation Adult Day Services Life Line Alert Service Chore Services (lawn, snow, etc.)

Medication Monitoring System Monthly Total

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

Entertainment

Utilities

Water Electricity Gas/Fuel/Oil Trash Groceries, Cleaning Supplies and Hygiene Items Monthly Total

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

Cable TV, Internet, Phone Hobbies Shopping-Hair/Skin/Nail Care/Clothing Dining Out Gifts (birthdays/holidays etc.)

Monthly Total

$ $ $ $ $ $

$ $ $ $ $ $

Monthly Totals

Home Utilities Entertainment In-Home Care Monthly Grand Total

$ $ $ $ $

*The “Invisible Mortgage” or “Lost Interest” is 5% of the selling price of your house divided by 12 months. If you stay at home you are losing X amount of investment income, per month.

We Can Help.

Living Options Service (414) 220-8600 www.living-options.org www.caregiversupportnetwork.org www.interfaithmilw.org

18B • 50PLUS • CAREGIVERS GUIDE • OCTOBER 2015 • SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

NEED A HELPING HAND CARING FOR AN OLDER ADULT?

www.interfaithmilw.org

Family Caregiver Support Network

FREE RESOURCES (414) 220-8600

Interfaith offers free help and support for family members and friends who assist older adults. Contact a Resource Specialists to help you sort through personal and older adult care options, because … …

NO ONE CAN DO IT ALONE.

OCTOBER 2015

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share of spending on Medicaid. The same article indicates that The Urban Institute estimates that accepting the federal money would save Wisconsin $2.5 billion in state dollars between 2015 and 2024. The article goes

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20B • 50PLUS • HOME HEALTH CARE • OCTOBER 2015

Home Health Care DIRECTORY

Ana Ventures, Inc. DBA Home Helpers

“At Your Service” Inc.

Serving Waukesha, Milwaukee and Racine Counties we specialize in providing exceptional home care services. Home Helpers mission is to treat you or your loved one, as an extension of family when family can’t be there. We bring a personalized, compassionate approach to in-home care assistance that is unique. Whether you require 24/7 around the clock care or just a few hours a month, our team of experienced office staff and caregivers will work with you to provide exceptional support for you and your family. The services we offer include housekeeping, respite care, cooking/ feeding, overnight care, personal care, bath, and administer medication, check medication compliance, companion/daily check.

Our company services Waukesha County and the surrounding communities. The services we offer include housekeeping, respite care, cooking/feeding, telephone reassurance, overnight care, personal care, baths, etc., administer medication, check medication compliance, companion/ daily check, conversation and companionship, medication reminders, transportation, errands, grocery shopping along with paperwork on insurance claims. Our staff includes a registered nurse. “At Your Service” Inc., provides an affordable alternative for those individuals who wish to remain in their homes and live a fulfilling healthier and happier life. We help all of our clients to experience quality of life, maintain independence and most importantly, peace of mind. As for the future, we see 10,000 people turning 65 every day for the next 15 years. Most of who will want to remain in their homes. There will be a huge need for both qualified caregivers and dependable, flexible and affordable home care companions.

158 W. Chestnut Street • Burlington Contact Person: Justin Mushel 262-510-4379 HomeHelpersWisconsin.com

414 Genesee St. • Delafield Contact Person: Tom Genetti 262-646-8668 www.weare-atyourservice.com

A community that comes to you With home-based Cedar Supportive Care, friendly, reliable Cedar Community staff provide one-on-one, non-medical services.

Call 262.306.2691 for help designing a service package, from light housekeeping to friendly visits to taking you on errands, to fit your needs. Start small with a minimum hour-long visit! In most cases, you’ll see a familiar face each time, always on time – and we honor the price structure quoted. Cedar Supportive Care’s trusted staff participate in the rigorous quality standards, screening and training for which Cedar Community is known.

Services available across six southeast Wisconsin counties including Washington, Dodge, Waukesha, Ozaukee, Fond du Lac and Sheboygan.

Cedar

home health  hospice  pathfinders cedarathome.org

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Call 262.457.7871

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OCTOBER 2015

• HOME HEALTH CARE • 50PLUS • 21B

Home Health Care DIRECTORY

Cedar Home Health & Hospice

Rent-A-Daughter, LLC

Cedar Home Health & Hospice services Waukesha, Washington, Fond du Lac, Dodge, Ozaukee and Sheboygan. Services we offer include housekeeping, respite care, cooking/feeding, telephone reassurance, personal care, baths, etc., supportive care, case management and hospice. We are Medicare approved and do paperwork on insurance claims. Staff includes a registered nurse and medical director. Benefits of home health care include quality care, trustworthy with a solid reputation in the medical community. One hour visits available. Helps prevent medical emergency and offers peace of mind.

Rent-A-Daughter serves Milwaukee and Waukesha Counties. Services offered include housekeeping, respite care, cooking/feeding, overnight care, personal care, baths, etc., check medication compliance and companion/daily check. For 30 years, our mission has been to come alongside older adults to help them live independently by providing non-medical home care. Rent-A-Daughter caregivers become an extension of the love and compassion that people receive from their own families. As for the future, we see the needs of the elderly population increasing.

5505 County Rd. Z, West Bend, WI 53095 Contact Person: Kathy Weston Phone: 262-306-2691

Home Health Care

DIRECTORY

12660 W. North Ave., Brookfield Contact Person: Jean Henke Phone: 262-754-0550

In-Home Care For Older Adults

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24B • 50PLUS • CAREGIVERS GUIDE • OCTOBER 2015

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