Janu ary 2017
You r resou rce for senior living in the Su squ ehanna Valley and neig hboring com m u nities.
STAY YOUNG AT HEART (and in body and m ind),pag e 2
BALLOON SINUS PROCEDURE perform ed by localdoc,pag e 4
C onnecting those retired w ith new and exciting adventu res.
TECHNOLOGY CAN HELP older drivers be safe,pag e 9
2
Press Enterprise n Friday, January 20, 2017
Stay young at heart Guest Columnist Courtesy of Family Features
Want to be happier in 2017? Try a hearing test
W
hen you’re making your list of New Year’s resolutions and to-dos for 2017, be sure to put this one near the top: a hearing test. Research shows that when people address hearing loss, it improves their quality of life in many ways. Ignoring a hearing loss and leaving it unaddressed can be exLauren hausting, lead to isolation and has been tied to an assortment of health conditions, including depression, diminished cognitive function and an increased risk of falling. But when people get a hearing test and use professionally-fitted and individually-programmed hearing aids — when recommended by an audiologist — most say they’re happy with the improvements they see in multiple areas of their lives. Here are just a few potential perks of treating hearing loss that may surprise you: 1. Your spirits may brighten. People with hearing loss who use hearing aids are less likely to feel down, depressed or hopeless, Better Hearing Institute (BHI) research shows. 2. Your relationships may benefit. Most people with hearing loss who use hearing aids say it has a positive effect on their relationships, according to a BHI survey. Research also finds that they’re more likely to have a
strong social network. 3. You may start to see life’s sunny side a little more. People with hearing loss who use hearing aids are more likely to be optimistic, feel engaged in life and even get more pleasure in doing things, BHI research finds. 4. Taking the reins on life might become easier. Gromel BHI research shows that people with hearing loss who use hearing aids are more likely to tackle problems actively. Not a bad New Year’s resolution in and of itself. 5. It may lighten your cognitive load. Experts say that effortful listening due to unaddressed hearing loss is associated with increased stress and poorer performance on memory tests. If you don’t have to put so much effort into listening due to untreated hearing loss, more cognitive resources may be available for other things — like remembering what was said or enjoying the conversation with friends. So, go ahead, call The Hearing Place at 570-7591113 today. Make a hearing test one of the New Year’s resolutions you keep in 2017. Do it for yourself. You’ll be glad you did. Lauren Gromel is an audiologist with The Hearing Place in Berwick. The views expressed in this column are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of Press Enterprise Inc.
When joints ache and you don’t move as fast as you used to, it may seem that growing old is anything but graceful. While you can’t stop the hands of time, there are ways you can keep your physical and mental well-being in tip-top shape for years to come. Even if you’ve spent a lifetime practicing healthy habits, your senior years are no time to allow those practices to fall to the wayside. On the other hand, if you put off quality selfcare for later in life, rely on your experience and maturity to know that taking care of yourself is as important as, well, life itself. • Eat balanced meals. It’s never too late to begin paying more attention to what you eat. Seniors may be prone to poor eating habits for the sake of convenience or because it’s not as much fun cooking for one or two when you once had a full house to feed. Actually, as you age, keeping your weight in check and continuing to fuel your body with essential nutrients is more important than ever. • Keep moving. It’s true that aches and pains may keep you from being as spry as you once were, but limiting your movement can actually create a snowball effect that results in even less mobility over time. Muscles that aren’t used regularly can weaken and restrict your movement even more, so work with your physician to determine an appropriate amount of activity for your condition. • Mind your mind. When you’re in the workforce, or while you’re tending to the needs of a growing family, you rely on your brain to power through, probably without even thinking about it. Yet over time, most people experience some degree of cognitive deterioration, partially from basic biology and partially from
Getty Images
Honor your regular medical appointments and heed the advice you’re given — including taking any medicines as prescribed. lack of “exercising” that vital muscle. Keep your mind sharp by communicating regularly with your family and friends, and seek out activities that put your brain to use, such as
crossword puzzles or word games. • Be a social butterfly. A common lament of middle-age is the lack of time to nurture friendships. With an empty nest and
an open calendar, there’s no time like the present to strengthen long-term bonds or seek out new companions who share life experiences and a desire to age with grace. Close connections with friends and family members will not only boost your emotional well-being, they can ensure there are others watching out for you on a regular basis. • Do as you’re told. When you’re younger, skipping an annual checkup here and there seems like no big deal. As you age, those regular assessments are more important. They serve an important role in identifying potential issues and introducing treatments before big problems arise. Honor your regular medical appointments and heed the advice you’re given — including taking any medicines as prescribed. Find more tips for living healthy as you age at elivingtoday.com.
Welcome to our neighborhood!
E njoy senior living at its finest
Sen io rLivin g Co m m u n ity
No rthu m berla n d ,PA
C ottag es PersonalC are A partm ents M em ory C are R ehabilitation Skilled N u rsing
570-473-8356 |w w w .No ttin gha m Villa ge.o rg
Press Enterprise n Friday, January 20, 2017
Paying for long-term care Courtesy of Metro Creative Graphics
Aging has its side effects, as it’s inevitable that individuals’ bodies and minds will change as they approach their golden years. Illnesses, disabilities and other conditions may speed up the changes in certain individuals. While many seniors continue to live independently well into their golden years, some require long-term care. The decision to move an elderly relative into a long-term care facility can be difficult. In addition to the emotional effects of such a decision, families must deal with the financial repercussions. Long-term care services can be costly, and many general healthcare insurance plans do not cover long-term care. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers that an assisted living facility may cost roughly $3,300 per month for a one-bedroom unit, while a nursing home may cost between $6,200 and $6,900. Seniors or families who
Metro Creative Graphics
Paying for long-term care requires planning well in advance of when such services may be needed. have enough income and savings may be able to pay for long-term care services without assistance. But those who cannot afford to do so may need to uti-
lize different programs or resources to pay for longterm care. • Long-term care insurance: According to WebMD, commercial in-
Discover the safer, easier way to take your medication
A safe and convenient medication packaging system
PreScript-Ease Rx is an innovative and patented multi-dose packaging system that makes it easy to take your medication. Each blister pack contains 28 individual blisters that contain your prescribed medication for a specific time (morning, noon, evening, bedtime) and date. Stop in your local Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy to ask about PreScript-Ease Rx today!
Bloomsburg Berwick 1000 S. Market Street 145 East 9th Street 570-784-9582 570-759-1239 Hours: Monday thru Friday 9:00am-6:00pm; Saturday 9:00am-1:00pm
surers offer private policies referred to as longterm care insurance. These policies may cover services such as care at home, adult day care, assisted living facilities, and nursing homes. However, plans vary widely. In addition, the cost for care and eligibility requirements may change as a person ages, so it’s best to purchase this insurance while young and relatively healthy. • Government assistance: Government health programs may pay for a portion of certain care but not all of the services offered by long-term care facilities. For example, the Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association says government health care programs may cover only a small percentage of the costs for nursing homes or other specialized residential care facilities, or perhaps none at all depending on the circumstances. In the United States, Medicare is the Federal health insurance program for people age 65 and older and for some people younger than 65 who are disabled. Medicare generally does not pay for long-term help with daily activities. Medicare pays for very limited skilled nursing home care after a hospital stay, but not for many assisted living facilities. Medicaid is another option that pays for health services and long-term care for low-income people of any age. First, applicants must determine their eligibility for Medicaid. Medicaid is typically only available after most personal assets have been depleted. Even with Medicaid, a resident of a long-term care facility may need to pay a portion of the care out of pocket. What’s more, as part of the application for Medicaid, a “look back” at assets is required to deter gifting assets in order to qualify. Paying for long-term care requires planning well in advance of when such services may be needed.
Guest Columnist Nottingham Village announces a major expansion in works
O
ver the past 40 years Nottingham Village has always had our residents in mind. Beginning with our skilled Nursing Center and continually striving to meet the changing needs of seniors, we are so excited about our newest addition to our beautiJudi ful 105-acre campus. Soundly under construction, with a completion date of August 2017, our newest addition is a 48-bed memory care center with four distinctive neighborhoods, eliminating confusing hallways. Charming private apartments with spectacular views await the resident with dementia or memory problems. We offer a truly unique concept for meeting all the needs of our Nottingham Village residents. Heather Court, our existing memory care area, is just 26 beds, and we are outgrowing it. Aging needs require much more space. Over the years, Nottingham Village has purposely met these ever-changing needs, and we will now offer a much larger memory care area as well as retirement homes, independent and personal care apartments, skilled nursing
and rehabilitation. The importance of a continuum of care cannot be overlooked. Everything is on the same campus, which allows for residents to move freely back and forth between levels as their needs change. This creates a far more desirable situation. Being one Karr of the few area familyowned senior communities insures a “hands on” approach to care. We can take every situation individually, and this does create more of a family feeling. Known for our beautiful campus, our quality of life is really our number one concern. Recently chosen by The Daily Item’s People’s Choice Awards, we are the number one senior living community in the area. Nottingham Village Senior Living Community is really where you want to be! Judi Karr is the marketing director at Nottingham Village Senior Living Community, 60 Neitz Road, Northumberland. For more information, call her at 570-4732360. The views expressed in this column are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of Press Enterprise Inc.
3
4
Press Enterprise n Friday, January 20, 2017
Balloon might be answer to sinus woes By Shawn H. Stair
Press Enterprise Special Editions Editor
SOUTH CENTRE TWP. — If you are among the 29 million Americans who suffer from sinus problems, a balloon technology procedure might be right for you. First performed in Pennsylvania in 2006 by Dr. Franklyn R. Gergits III of Northeast Ear, Nose and Throat Associates, the procedure uses a catheter and inflatable balloon device to open sinus pathways without cutting or major surgery. Gergits, an otolaryngologist, said studies indicate about 98 percent of patients who suffered from chronic sinusitis say their airways are as open eight years later as they were right after having a balloon sinuplasty. However, it cannot be used for all sinus conditions, such as the growth of polyps, which still must be removed using traditional surgical methods. Though the basic concept remains the same, the way the procedure is performed has changed significantly over the last decade. It once was conducted in a hospital setting using X-ray guidance which required the doctor and others present to wear lead protection. Now, using methods applied from dentistry, it can be performed at a doctor’s office under mild local anesthesia using a tiny camera and large video screen without emitting radiation.
How it works Gergits
begins
a
Local doctor performs minimally-invasive procedure to open airways
Dr. Franklyn Gergits III talks about the balloon sinus procedure about to take place as Frank Getty of Franklin Township, 89, sits in a chair while waiting for medication that was put up his nose to numb the area to take full effect. The procedure took place at Gergits’ office at Northeast Ear, Nose and Throat Associates in South Centre Township.
loon sinuplasty by applying some initial anesthesia. In some cases, especially when antibiotics have been ineffective, he will then take cotton swabs of both nostrils to be sent to a lab for analysis, which typically come back within a week. This will help determine if the infection is fungal or bacterial and what additional medications or treatments may be effective. He then inserts a device guided by a camera into the nasal passages to administer bal- additional anesthesia and
remove any visible indications of infection. With the infection cleared, he next uses a different device to insert a balloon into the sinus passage. When the balloon is inflated, the passage opens.
Patients’ experience Charmaine Keefer of
Lime Ridge, 80, had a balloon sinuplasty performed about two years ago by Gergits. Dr. Franklyn Gergits removes chunks of infection Previously, she suffered from inside of the sinus of Getty as Kristin Gergits prefrom frequent bouts with sinus infections and pneumo- pares to send out samples to have them tested. BY JIMMY MAY - Page 1 - Composite nia, but she has been pleased PHOTOS Griswold 2x4.5.crtr with the results, saying her problems are gone.
Please see SINUS page 5
Do you have Geisinger Gold Health Plan? Call us to see if you are eligible for $800 towards new hearing aids.
www.fritzingertownseniorliving.com
159 SOUTH OLD TURNPIKE ROAD DRUMS, PA 18222 A Division of Lakewood Senior Living/Drums, LLC
• FREE Hearing Aid Demonstrations • FREE Batteries for Life with Purchase of Hearing Aids • FREE 2 Week Trial of Hearing Aids • Payment Plans available $ as low as $58/month with credit approval
• Hearing Aid Repairs on All Makes & Models
350 OFF
Set Of Digital Aids Expires 2-5-17
570-759-1113 212 W. Front Street, Berwick
Press Enterprise n Friday, January 20, 2017
5
Infection can be seen on a TV screen from inside the left sinus of Getty before being removed by Gergits. air, and I couldn’t get it. I don’t want to retire. What would I do?” Getty said. Like most patients, Getty said he experienced almost no pain, just a little discomfort. Not only do most patients experience an immediate improvement in their ability to breathe, but studies show the procedure also reduces Dr. Franklyn Gergits watches the balloon in the sinus as it is inflated by Kristin Gergits subsequent sinus infections during Getty’s balloon sinus procedure. by more than 75 percent.
Sinus
He was anxious to get absolutely recommend Dr. back to his farm work which Gergits.” Another recent patient, has been hampered for years Frank Getty of Frank- by his breathing trouble, inContinued from page 4 lin Township, 89, also was cluding a lung problem that “It was the best thing I happy, saying immediately put him in the hospital for 10 ever did. I’m sorry I waited afterward that his ability days about 15 years ago. as long as I did,” she said. to breathe was “more open “I had to do something. “It’s been great, and I would than it’s been in a1long time.” When you work, you need Maylath 3x6.crtr - Page - Composite
• • • • • • • •
• •
• CPR, AED, and
FIRST AID TRAINING • OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens • Fire Safety
Gergits holds the device which contains a lighted tip and the balloon which inflates (the teal-colored area) before inserting it into Getty’s nose. PHOTOS BY JIMMY MAY
Middle ground Gergits first learned about applying balloon angioplasty technology for the heart to the sinuses from a Vanderbilt University doctor at a conference in Colorado. The idea captured Gergits’ attention in part because he thought of a specific patient he believed could benefit from the procedure. Shortly after the conference, Gergits went to Baltimore for training, and within a month, operated on that patient, who was glad to be able to get back to his job in construction. Gergits said balloon sinuplasty offers a middle ground in treatment between the use of medications and traditional endoscopic sinus surgery that requires about a week of recovery. He has been pleased to offer it to patients in this area. He said the procedure has been used on people of all ages, from children on up. He offers Saturday morning procedures to help accommodate work schedules. Patients are typically able to return to work and resume most of their normal activities by Monday. Northeast Ear, Nose and Throat Associates is at 6850 Lows Road, Suite 320, South Centre Township. For more information, call 570-3874ENT (4368) or visit www. neentpa.com. Shawn H. Stair can be reached at 570-387-1234, ext. 1300, or specialeditions@pressenterprise.net.
Gergits, left, places small strips into Getty’s nose to numb the area in preparation for a balloon sinus procedure.
The lighted tip of the balloon device can be seen through Getty’s forehead, helping Gergits find the correct placement. The light and accompanying camera replaced the previous use of X-rays, making the procedure safer for the patient and the medical team.
Gergits uses suction to clear infection from the sinus of Getty before the balloon sinus procedure is performed.
6
Press Enterprise n Friday, January 20, 2017
Hearing test may Guest Columnist aid your memory Courtesy of Brandpoint
Can daylight savings time make you SAD?
I
f you find that once the days start to become shorter you start to feel blah, lethargic, and moody, you might be suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD) — and you aren’t alone. Many people experience mood changes once daylight savings time comes around, but there is help if you need it. According to the Mayo Clinic, seasonal affective disorder “is a type of depression that’s related to changes in the season.” You can pretty much track it by the calendar as it starts and stops at about the same time each year. If you or a loved one are affected by the disorder, you will notice a change in your mood sometime during the fall that will last throughout the winter months. You may find yourself feeling moody, depressed, and as if you have a lack of energy. About 3 percent of the population suffers from SAD, which is a biochemical imbalance in a person’s hypothalamus gland. This is caused by a lack of daylight due to shorter days and more clouds and less sunshine. If you suffer from SAD, you may find that you crave more sleep and are hungry for carbs. In actuality, your brain is telling you to hibernate, as your body tries to conserve energy until spring. You may even notice a reduction in your sex drive. One difference between SAD and typical depression is that when you suffer from SAD, you may not actually feel sad. Instead, it is more about having a lack of energy. It is important to note that if you live in an area that has a longer winter, think north of the MasonDixon line, you are more likely to suffer from SAD. Just because you or a senior adult in your life suffers from SAD doesn’t mean there aren’t things you can do to combat it. • Check in with your doctor — If you haven’t had a diagnosis, you should
talk to your doctor about how you are feeling, so he or she can make sure you are suffering from SAD and not something else. • Buy a SAD lamp — A SAD lamp will help provide the sunlight that you are missing. One Columbia University study showed that 75 percent of participants who used a SAD lamp for 30 minutes a day had great improvement in their symptoms. • Go outside — While it is true that winter weather can keep you inside, you should try to go outside as much as possible, especially on sunny days. Even a 20-minute walk in the sun will help. The goal here is to get as much natural sunlight exposure as possible. • Spend time socializing — You may not feel like doing anything or socializing at all, but spending time with loved ones and friends can go a long way to making you feel better. Go out for coffee or have a friend over for dinner. If you or a loved one is suffering from the winter blues, don’t ignore it. Go see your doctor and take steps to bring the sun back into your life. You will feel better, and the winter won’t seem quite as bleak. Founded in 2006, CaringTimes is a resource center for those seeking home care information and support as they care for elderly parents and research senior in home care options. Our mission: “to Celebrate, Learn, & Advocate Aging Issues.” We highlight available resources and share our expertise during a very difficult and challenging time in many adults’ lives. To subscribe to the free weekly CaringTimes blog, visit www.griswoldhomecare.com/blog. For more information, contact Griswold Home Care at 570-752-5552. The views expressed in this column are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of Press Enterprise Inc.
Intrigued by all the brain-training products out there to keep your mind sharp and spirits young? You may want to consider something else: A hearing test. That’s right. Mounting evidence links untreated hearing loss to impaired memory and diminished cognitive function. What that means is, if you keep brushing off that suspected hearing loss of yours, your cognition may pay. Researchers have found that when people with unaddressed hearing loss strain to hear, they tend to do more poorly on memory tests. They may figure out what is being said, but because so much effort goes into just hearing it, their ability to remember what they heard often suffers. Experts believe this has to do with what they call “cognitive load.” That is, in order to compensate for the hearing loss and make out the words, people with untreated hearing loss may draw on cognitive resources they’d normally use to remember what they’ve heard. Experts say that untreated hearing loss may even interfere with the person’s ability to accurately process and make sense of what was said or heard. In fact, research shows that people with poorer hearing have less gray matter in the auditory cortex, a region of the brain needed to support speech comprehension. Other research shows a link between hearing loss and dementia. One Johns Hopkins study found that seniors with hearing loss are significantly more likely to develop dementia over time than those who retain their hearing. Another found that hearing loss is associated with accelerated cognitive decline in older adults. And a third revealed a link between hearing loss and accelerated brain tissue loss. Some experts believe that interventions, like pro-
fessionally fitted hearing aids, could potentially help. The bottom line is we actually “hear” with our brain, not with our ears. So if you think you may have hearing loss, do something about it. Make an appointment with a hearing health care professional, and get a hearing test. After all, research suggests that treating hearing loss may be one of the best things you can actually do to help protect your memory and cognitive function. The Better Hearing Institute (BHI) offers a free, confidential online hearing check where people can determine if they need a more comprehensive hearing test by a hearing health care professional. Access the BHI Hearing Check at www.BetterHearing.org. Follow BHI on Twitter @better_hearing. Like BHI on Facebook at www.facebook.com/betterhearinginstitute.
Mounting evidence links untreated hearing loss to impaired memory and diminished cognitive function. Brandpoint photo
• Six-lane, indoor, heated pool • 18 ft. climbing wall in pool • Full-sized gymnasium • 50 fitness classes per week • Fitness Center with cardio and strength equipment • Personal Training
• Indoor Cycling Classes • Summer Day Camp • After-School Camp • Racquetball Court • Special Events • Community Classes & Workshops for all ages
www.thedacc.com
DANVILLE AREA COMMUNITY CENTER Visit us at...1 Liberty Street
(behind the High School stadium) or call us at...(570) 275-3001 Hours: Mon.-Fri. 5:30am-9pm • Sat. 7am-7pm • Sun. 9am-7pm
Comprehensive Care For All Your Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Needs • Sports Medicine • Joint Replacement • Fracture Care • Arthroscopy • Treating All Area Athletes
NOW AVAILABLE: F Gender Specific Knee Replacements F Minimally Invasive Hip Replacement F High Flex Knees F Shoulder Replacement
Serving the Bloomsburg area for over 24 years
OFFERING ONSITE XRAYS
570-387-2282
2701 Columbia Blvd. (Rt. 11), Bloomsburg
Press Enterprise n Friday, January 20, 2017
7
Assistive devices help people stay mobile Courtesy of Metro Creative Graphics
Disabilities affect people from all walks of life. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that around 55 million Americans have a disability of some kind. Of these people, 33 million have a disability that makes it difficult for them to carry out some daily activities. Statistics Canada states that, as of 2012, 13.7 percent of the population age 15 years or older reported having a disability that could impact daily life. People with disabilities may need assistive devices to reclaim some measure of their independence. For example, millions of people rely on wheelchairs or Metro Creative Graphics walking aids to get around. These are called assistive Rolling walkers are assistive devices that can keep individuals mobile despite cognitechnology and rehabilita- tive or physical disabilities. tive devices, which include tools, equipment or prod- of mobility devices avail- on long trips. the chair or by someone ucts that can help people able for purchase. • Rolling walkers: Roll- pushing it from behind. with disabilities get around • Canes: Canes are hand- ing walkers are similar to This can be difficult for more easily. These devices held devices that provide a standard walkers. But roll- people with minimal upper may be as small as magni- little extra stability or sup- ing walkers have wheels, ei- body strength. Mechanifying glasses for reading to port to weakened limbs. ther on the front only or on cal wheelchairs are powas large as wheelchairs. Canes are easily transport- both sets of legs. They are ered with a lever or button. The National Institutes ed and can assist those who somewhat less stable than Some people may opt for of Health state that 2.2 mil- need only a little help. standard walkers. Rolling motorized scooters over lion people in the U.S. de• Standard walkers: walkers with wheel-locking bulkier wheelchairs when pend on wheelchairs for Also known as medical devices may offer stability possible. day-to-day tasks and mo- walkers, standard walkers when needed. Some rolling Assistive devices can be bility. More than six mil- offer substantial support walkers are called “rolla- highly effective, but only lion use canes, walkers and must be lifted to move. tors.” when they are used properor crutches to assist with That requires upper body • Wheelchairs: Stan- ly and safely. Assistive demobility. The following are strength, which can be dif- dard wheelchairs must be vices should be measured some of the common types ficult for some to maintain powered by the person in for each user. Many walkHeritage Springs 3x4.crtr - Page 1 - Composite ers are height-adjustable. The width of a device also is important. A walker or another device that is too wide can affect mobility or require modifications to be made around the home. Weight is another consideration. The device should be lightweight so it can be maneuvered, but also weigh enough to provide enough stability to keep users upright. Users should proceed slowly and favor their stronger sides when relying on canes or walkers. Devices should not be used to climb atop other items like step stools. Children should not be allowed to play with or ride on assistive devices. If there are safety belts or locks on any assistive technology, they should be put in place before use to prevent further injury.
Guest Columnist Certified Elder Law Attorneys and life care planning — a holistic approach
T
emotional needs — now and in the future. The focus of a life care plan is to strive for your good health, safety and well-being in the least restrictive environment. The Law Offices of Kreisher & Gregorowicz are members of the Life Care Planning Law Firms Association and are recognized as a life care planning law Special expertise firm. Our elder care coorAs CELAs, Attorneys dinator, Heidi E. Young, Kreisher and MSW, and Marshall offer certified elder you something law attorneys that other atcreate a relationship with torneys do not: you and your professional family to focus expertise in on maximizing the unique your qualneeds of seity of life and niors. Obtainindependence. ing the advice We offer supfrom a certified port to families elder law atMarianne whose elderly torney is your Kreisher loved ones are best choice for important issues such as: at home, in assisted living • Long-term care plan- or skilled nursing facilities. We coordinate needed ning care and community • Asset protection services and serve as the • Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security and veter- senior’s advocate, as well as provide emotional supans’ benefits port for the family during • Powers of attorney these difficult times. This and guardianships • Estate planning (wills lightens the load for family caregivers, improves and trusts) • Estate administration the senior’s qualify of life and can even postpone the • Special needs counneed for nursing home seling (trusts, housing, care. employment) To find out more inforCELAs are not just authorities on legal issues mation and connect with affecting seniors, they are our knowledgeable staff, call the Law Offices of also familiar with other Kreisher & Gregorowicz vital resources and serat 570-784-5211, ext. 2, or vices — both public and email info@columbiaprivate — that can help countylaw.com. meet the needs of senior Attorney Marianne citizens. Kreisher is a Certified Life care planning Elder Law Attorney and partner at the Law Offices Life care planning deof Kreisher & Gregorowicz scribes how experienced in Bloomsburg. and knowledgeable elder The views expressed law attorneys and care coordinators work together in this column are those of the writer and do not with you and your famnecessarily reflect those of ily to meet your medical, long-term care, legal and Press Enterprise Inc.
he Law Offices of Kreisher & Gregorowicz are pleased to announce that Attorney Marissa B. Marshall is now a Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA). She joins Attorney Marianne E. Kreisher as the only certified elder law attorneys in Columbia and Montour counties.
8
Press Enterprise n Friday, January 20, 2017
Truth behind hospice misconceptions explained Courtesy of Brandpoint
When a loved one is critically ill, hearing that it’s time for hospice care can be devastating news. On top of the emotional upheaval of coping with a terminal illness, you may be unsure what hospice care really is — and believe it’s just an indication your loved one will likely pass away. Yet the time your loved one spends in hospice care doesn’t have to be sad — for anyone. In fact, says Toni Norman, the senior director of hospice operations for Brookdale Senior Living, hospice can be a deeply rewarding time of great comfort for patients and their families. “Hospice care is not about waiting for someone to die, and that’s unfortunately a very common misconception,” Norman says. “The goal of hospice is to provide to a patient, who has a life-limiting illness, the physical comfort and medical care they need to stay in their home for as long as possible, while at the same time supporting their caregivers. The hospice team helps families by educating, supporting and identifying any needs they have, ranging from chaplain support to finding mortuaries and vet-
Brandpoint
The decision to begin hospice care is a communal one, with the patient, caregivers, loved ones and medical professionals contributing to the dialogue. eran benefits.” The decision to begin hospice care is a communal one, with the patient, caregivers, loved ones and medical professionals contributing to the dialogue. “A terminal diagnosis from a doctor usually begins the process of seeking hospice care,” Norman says. “Also, as a family member’s health begins to decline due to illness, conversations about endof-life care are proactive and com-
passionate.”
Myths debunked Brookdale Senior Living’s hospice care providers often encounter common misconceptions about hospice care. Norman offers the truth behind some mistaken beliefs: • Hospice is for the last few weeks of life. The hospice Medicare benefit is for the last six months, if the disease follows its
normal course. “Most people who enter hospice have done so because they’ve received a diagnosis of a lifelimiting illness,” Norman says. “But people who enter hospice often live longer, and with a better quality of life, than terminally ill people who do not go into hospice. Many are even able to come off hospice service if their condition improves.” • Hospice means giving up. Hospice is actually a commitment to a high level of care for a loved one. “It means making them as comfortable and safe as possible so they may enjoy time with their loved ones for as long as possible,” Norman says. • Patients are heavily medicated. Patients receive medication under strict physician guidelines, and caregivers closely monitor comfort care protocols so each patient’s pain and symptoms are uniquely managed. • Hospice patients can no longer see their doctors. Patients can continue to see any of their previous doctors. Rather than taking anything away, hospice adds a layer of medical support. • Hospice care ends when a patient dies. Because hospice cares for the patient’s caregiv-
ers and loved ones as well as the patient, hospice team members continue their support for 13 months after the patient passes away. The hospice team provides grief support for the families and will continue to work with them to address any lingering questions, and to help identify their needs. “The hospice team is comprised of the assigned physician and nurses to provide the direct medical care to the patient, while a chaplain, social worker and bereavement counselor provide additional support and education to families and caregivers,” Norman says. Hospice ideally occurs in a patient’s home, whether that’s a personal residence or assisted living community. It is a Medicare-reimbursed benefit, and most private insurance providers do also cover some hospice costs. “End-of-life care isn’t just about taking pain medications to relieve symptoms until death,” Norman says. “It helps people gain emotional strength and carry on with daily life, while improving the quality of life. The goal is to help patients and their families make every remaining moment as comfortable and enriching as possible.”
Press Enterprise n Friday, January 20, 2017
9
Tech may help steer older drivers down safer road By MICHAEL LIEDTKE AP Technology Writer
SAN FRANCISCO — Older drivers may soon be traveling a safer road thanks to smarter cars that can detect oncoming traffic, steer clear of trouble and even hit the brakes when a collision appears imminent. A few of these innovations, such as blind-spot warning systems, are already built in or offered as optional features in some vehicles, primarily in more expensive models. But more revolutionary breakthroughs are expected in the next few years, when measures such as robotic braking systems are supposed to become standard features in all cars on U.S. roads. Better technology, of course, can help prevent drivers of all ages from getting into accidents. But those in their 70s and older are more likely to become confused at heavily trafficked intersections and onramps. Aging also frequently limits a body’s range of motion, making it more difficult to scan all around for
Volvo Cars via AP
Volvo Cars via AP
Volvo Cars’ Park Assist System is shown in one of its XC90 SUVs. The system supports the driver during parking. The function expresses audible and visible output to help the driver to determine the distance to stationary and moving objects during parking. It uses four front and four rear ultrasonic sensors positioned symmetrically left to right on the front and rear bumper. Additional four sensors are positioned at the front and rear wheel housing to scan the side of the vehicle.
Volvo Cars’ City Safety feature is shown in one of its XC90 SUVs. City Safety features living in the country, up consideration for threepedestrian and cyclist detection with full auto brake, day and night. from about 31 million in fourths of the drivers older nearby vehicles and other hazards. And older drivers tend to be more fragile than their younger counterparts, suffering more serious injuries in traffic accidents. “Anything that reduces the likelihood or severity of a collision is really a technology that is primed for helping tomorrow’s older
adults,” says Bryan Reimer, research scientist for the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s AgeLab and associate director of the New England University Transportation Center. “We are moving toward an ecosystem where older adults will increasingly be supported by the technology that may help enhance
Columbia/Montour Aging Office, Inc.
A Private Non-Profit Organization Providing services to adults over 60 years of age to help maintain their independence and remain in their own homes and communities. SERVICES OFFERED:
n Assessments - For Personal Care/Nursing Home Placement and In-Home Care. n Care Management - Continuous follow up & provision of in-home services n Family Care Giver Support Program - Assistance for the Care Giver. n Waiver Program/Nursing Home Transition Program - Alternatives to Nursing Home Placement n Care Transitions - helping to connect the dots from inpatient hospitalization to home n Ombudsman - Investigation of complaints at Personal Care & Nursing Homes. n Protective Services - Investigation of cases of abuse, neglect or exploitation.
For more information on these or other services please contact us at:
702 Sawmill Road, Bloomsburg, PA
Hours: 8am-4:30pm Monday thru Friday Business hours phone: (570) 784-9272 • Toll Free 1-800-598-5001 For Emergencies after business hours, please call (570) 784-0828 or Toll Free: 1-866-448-0141 Senior Centers Benton (570) 925-6533 • Berwick (570) 759-8529 Bloomsburg (570) 784-8615 • Catawissa (570) 356-2219 Montour Co. (570) 275-1466 • Wilburton #2 (570) 339-1386.
their mobility.”
Boomers turning 70 Automakers are rolling out more technology just as the first members of the culture-shifting Baby Boom generation turned 70 last year. By 2030, the U.S. Census Bureau expects there will be nearly 54 million people who are 70 or older
2014. About 80 percent of that group is expected to be licensed to drive, based on current trends, and that ratio could rise even higher if technology lets elderly people remain behind the wheel and preserve a sense of independence longer. The presence of safety technology will be a key
than 50 who plan to buy a car in the next two years, according to a recent survey by auto insurer The Hartford and MIT AgeLab. In an indication that priorities are shifting, only one-third of the surveyed 50-and-older drivers who bought a car during the past two years focused on
Please see TECH page 12
The Gift Making all of the funeral arrangements in advance is one last wonderful gift you can give the loved ones who will be left behind. By freeing them from the burden of many details, you give them time to do the work of grieving and caring for one another. Let us help you remember your loved ones without all of those decisions.
JAMES L., JR.
HINCKLEY
FUNERAL HOME and CREMATION SERVICES, INC. 1024 Market St., Berwick Serving Greater Berwick Area for Over 50 Years
570-752-3805
James L. Hinckley, Jr. - Supervisor
10 Press Enterprise n Friday, January 20, 2017
How seniors can simplify everyday tasks
Guest Columnist Making the tough decision about care for your loved one with Alzheimer’s
M
ore than 670,000 dementia care providPennsylvanians ers at Heritage Springs provide home Memory Care is here care for a loved one with to help. We understand Alzheimer’s or another that moving a loved one form of dementia, acinto long-term care can cording to the be one of Alzheimer’s the hardest Association. decisions a Often, there family must comes a time make. It is when the very common loved one’s for families needs are to feel guilty beyond the and wonder if caregivers they are makabilities or the ing the right stress of prochoice. It’s viding home COLLEEN FRITZ important to healthcare remember the becomes too decision is making sure overwhelming and movyour loved one is living ing the loved one into residential care needs to in a safe environment and receiving the proper be considered. level of care needed. Here are some quesOur new neighbortions home caregivers hood addition is now may find helpful to open and allows us to exdetermine if residential care is the right option tend the care we provide for their loved one: to seniors who deserve to • Is your loved one live in a safe, yet homebecoming unsafe in their like community that is current home? Signs best suited for their specan include leaving the cific needs. To speak with stove on and wandering a member of our team or outside the home/becom- to schedule a tour, please ing lost. call 570-522-3671 or visit • Is the health of your www.heritagespringspa. loved one at risk? Signs com. can include not eating, Heritage Springs forgetting to take or inMemory Care is the correctly taking medicaSusquehanna Valley’s tions and falling. only long-term care com• Would the structure munity solely focused on and social interaction at seniors with Alzheimer’s a residential care comand other forms of demunity benefit your mentia. loved one? Colleen Fritz, RN, • Are you becoming PCHA is the executive a stressed or impatient director of Heritage caregiver? Are you Springs Memory Care in neglecting work, other Lewisburg. family or yourself ? The views expressed If you have questions about if or when residen- in this column are those of the writer and do not tial care could be a good necessarily reflect those of option for your loved one, our team of certified Press Enterprise Inc.
Courtesy of Metro Creative Graphics
The ability to perform everyday tasks is something many people take for granted. But as men and women approach or exceed retirement age, many may start to struggle with chores and tasks they have performed for decades. Physical limitations are a common side effect of aging. But such limitations do not have to prove too big a hurdle for seniors to clear. In fact, there are many ways for seniors to simplify everyday tasks while maintaining their independence. • Embrace technology. Even the proudest Luddites cannot deny technology’s potential to make seniors’ lives easier. Seemingly simple tasks like shopping for groceries and vacuuming a home can be difficult for seniors with dwindling or limited mobility. But seniors with Internet access in their homes can order their groceries online and then pick them up in-store or have them delivered, saving them the trouble of walking around the store. With regard to vacuuming, autonomous vacuum cleaners have removed the need to use traditional vacuum cleaners. Certain autonomous vacuums employ sensors to detect dirty spots on the floor, and these vacuums can even be programmed to clean the home while residents are out of the house. • Upgrade bathrooms. Tasks associated with personal hygiene also tend to be taken for granted until they become difficult. But a few simple bathroom alterations can help seniors safely navigate the bathrooms in their homes so they can maintain their personal hygiene without fear of injury. Grab bars can be installed on shower walls so seniors can safely get in and out of their showers and bathtubs. Such bars are both effective and inexpensive, and some do not even require any drilling to install. Specialty grab bars, tub grips and tub transfer benches are just a few additional products that can make bathing easier for seniors who have lost or are starting to lose some of their physical strength.
Metro Creative Graphics
Aging men and women may find that technology helps them simplify their everyday lives. • Get “smart” on the road. Seniors who are experiencing mild difficulty driving can make getting about town that much easier by plugging their smartphones into their vehicles or making use of the various apps that have become standard in modern vehicles. For example, the maps app on a smartphone can be connected to a car and direct seniors to their destinations, saving them the trouble of remembering all the ins and outs of how to get a particular destination. Seniors also can employ apps
to help them find their vehicles should they forget exactly where they parked in crowded parking lots. Such apps can increase seniors’ comfort levels on the road while helping them maintain their independence. • Downsize. Whether downsizing to a smaller home or simply downsizing a lifestyle, seniors may find that living smaller is akin to living simpler. Empty nesters may find they no longer need several bedrooms in their homes, and moving into smaller homes can reduce their daily workloads
while also clearing out clutter that can make performing everyday chores more difficult. Men and women accustomed to hustle and bustle may also find that cutting back on professional and/or personal commitments gives them more energy for everyday activities while enriching the commitments they continue to maintain. Aging men and women can employ various strategies to simplify their lives and maintain their independence well into their golden years.
A team ofexpertsto help
Seniors and their Families
SE RV IC E S P R O V ID E D :
~ L ife C are Planning ~ A sset Protection ~ M edicaid Q u alification ~ E state Planning ~ SpecialN eeds Planning ~ E state A dm in. LAW O FFICES O F
A ttorney M arianne E .K reisher,C E L A C are C oordinator H eidi E .You ng ,M SW A ttorney M arissa B .M arshall,C E L A
K reish er & G regorow icz C ALLTO DAY
5 70-784 -5 211
Press Enterprise n Friday, January 20, 2017 11
Help socially-isolated seniors of interacting and helping seniors can be immeasurThe elderly population is able. There are plenty of on the rise in many counways to help seniors avoid tries. Advancements in isolation and continue to healthcare and a growing live fulfilling lives. emphasis on healthy life• Provide transportastyles means people are livtion. A Place for Mom, a ing longer than ever before. senior housing placement Age is often accomparesource, notes that lack of nied by wisdom, but men adequate transportation is and women may also find a main cause of social isolathat feelings of isolation, tion among seniors. Volunloneliness and depression tary or necessary cessation may also settle in as they of driving makes getting grow older. The Journal of to and from appointments Primary Prevention pubor even recreational outlished “A Review of Social ings more difficult. Where Isolation,” which observed public transportation is how social isolation has unavailable or challenging been linked to numerous to come by, volunteers can detrimental health effects help shuttle seniors to and in older adults. Some of from grocery stores, docthese ailments may include tor’s offices and any other Metro Creative Graphics increased risk for mortalplaces they need to go. Getity, rehospitalization, falls, Age is often accompanied by wisdom, but men and ting out regularly and seeand dementia. women may also find that feelings of isolation, loneliness ing new faces can help seIndividuals looking to and depression may also settle in as they grow older. niors overcome feelings of give back to their commuloneliness. nities may want to consider area. Although it can be dif- minished physical or men• Participate in hobhelping seniors in their ficult to see seniors with di- tal capabilities, the rewards bies together. Give seniors a sense of purpose by encouraging them to participate in hobbies or activities. Book clubs are one activity that can interest people of different age groups. • Encourage exercise. Physical exercise keeps the body fit and improves mental health. Seniors can benefit from physical activity because it promotes strong bones and a healthy cardiovascular system. In addition, seniors who enroll in exercise classes at gyms or local senior centers can meet like-minded adults, helping them overcome their feelings of isolation even further. • Provide meals and companionship. Older adults may not be getting all they need to maintain healthy weights and bodily functions. Cooking and shopping for healthy foods may be difficult. Provide seniors with healthy meals From The Boon e Fa m ily when possible, and take the time to share those meals. This can foster conversations that keep seniors’ minds sharp and also may help prevent social isolaw w w.g ra n d view r.com tion. Seniors can benefit from many different forms of 4 9 W ood b in e La n e,Da n ville support, and helping older adults is a worthy volunteer initiative. Courtesy of Metro Creative Graphics
y l l u f s s Su cceabilitated R eh
293 ofou r Pa tien ts w ere a ble to retu rn to theirho m esin 2016
Thank You to o u rsta ff!
5 70.275 .5 24 0
Guest Columnist We have ways to help older adults stay in their homes By Kathi Lynn
T
he Columbia/Montour Aging Office Inc. can assist older adults and their families in keeping loved ones where they belong — in their own homes. To be eligible, the individual in need needs to be age 60 or older, live in Columbia or Montour county, and be assessed for need by agency staff. All of the following services will be cost-shared. This means the agency needs the older adult’s exact income to determine if a percentage of the cost of these new services will be required to receive them. An agency representative will visit the older adult in their home to do the assessment of need and to determine what, if any, percentage of the total cost will be required. We all know the slogan, “Help! I can’t get up.” This is the advertisement for a PERS unit. PERS stands for Personal Emergency Response System. It is put into use when the older adult falls and needs assistance in getting up or is in need of medical attention. Help is a button push away. There are several companies that offer this service for a monthly fee. We can offer this service to eligible older adults in our area. Two of the major supplies that older adults are finding themselves in need of are nutritional supplements and incontinence items. Both are expensive, and often older adults have to determine what is needed the most. Nutritional supplies are defined as both liquid supplement (Ensure, Boost, Glucerna and the like) and nutritional supplemental bars (made by the same companies or others that are high in protein and minerals). These give added nutritional value to an older adult’s diet. Incontinence supplies include protective undergarments, pads, liners and briefs. Attention all caregivers! You need to remember to take time out for yourself. We do find their number one question in telling them this is, “How can I do this and who will be with mom?” Our re-
spite care program will have family members choosing an agency or someone they feel comfortable with to stay with their loved one while they can relax in their special way. We remind caregivers that they need to take time out to care for themselves at least once per month. Environmental modifications/adaptive devices can be offered on a cost-share basis to those not eligible for other services. Environmental modifications are those physical adaptations to the home, required by the individual’s plan, which are necessary to ensure the health, welfare and safety of the individual, or which enable the individual to function with greater independence and, without which, the individual would require institutionalization. Adaptive devices are defined as any equipment that enables a person with a disability to function independently. All other financial resources must be denied prior to the agency paying for said devices. Examples include grab bars, raised toilet seats, wheelchairs, walkers, canes, crutches and the like. The agency continues to offer the following services to maintain older adults in their own homes: information and referral, care management, transportation, home-delivered meals, personal care, personal assistance service, caregiver support program, insurance counseling, shopping assistance, legal services, senior centers, health and wellness programs, home health, nursing home transition, long-term care assessments, Medicaid waiver program and protective services. The agency is open Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. To make a referral, call 570-784-9272 or email info@cmaaa15.org. Referrals may be anonymous. Kathi Lynn is director of the Columbia/Montour Aging Office Inc. The views expressed in this column are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of Press Enterprise Inc.
12 Press Enterprise n Friday, January 20, 2017
Tech
Guest Columnist Wellness doesn’t just mean physical fitness at Maria Joseph
T
he residents at Ma• Environmental — Maria Joseph Continu- ria Joseph actively paring Care Communi- ticipates in a single-stream ty experience wellness on recycling program. In addimany levels. Most wellness tion, Toczylousky develprograms focus on seven oped a campus Gardening separate aspects Club. Members of of life: spiritual, this club help mainemotional, finantain the garden cial, environmenareas on campus, as tal, social, physical well as make sure and intellectual. the entire campus Denika Keefer, is free of garbage wellness director, and debris. Dawn and Denise Toc• Social — SoOrzehowski cialization with zylousky, campus activity director, one’s peers is use these guidelines to probably one of the most develop their activities and important aspects on the events so as to touch on all Wellness Wheel. On our levels of wellness. campus, we offer many • Spiritual — To accom- opportunities for social modate all people of faith, interaction: themed happy Catholic Mass is offered dai- hours with musical enterly, and Protestant services tainment, shopping trips, are available twice a week. casino trips, themed din• Emotional — Emoners and so much more. tional wellness is achieved “There is so much to do when one can manage here,” stated Joyce Bartheir feelings and related tholomew, resident. “We behaviors, along with love going to Florida, but having the ability to cope it’s hard this year, because effectively with stress. Ev- of all that we will miss ery year, Keefer schedules while we are away.” a Stress Relief Fair where • Physical — Keefer ofshe enlists the help of lofers fitness classes five days cal vendors. Each vendor per week, along with many offers a service that aids in health screenings throughthe reduction of stress. out the year. The subjects • Intellectual — Reinclude, but are not limited cently, Maria Joseph to, upper and lower body began collaborating with strength training, balthe Bucknell Institute for ance, yoga, stretching and Life Long Learning. This core strength. In addition, is an organization that ofKeefer organized a Walkfers various adult learning ing Club that was featured opportunities within the in Rails to Trails magazine. Lewisburg area. There is “My goal is to keep our interest in developing a residents engaged, active, satellite site in Danville. In and healthy while enjoyaddition, Keefer schedules ing the beauty of nature,” numerous educational stated Keefer. learning opportunities Living well at Maria throughout the year. Joseph Continuing Care • Financial — Residents Community is a way of life! are afforded opportunities Dawn Orzehowski is the to meet with local finanmarketing director at Macial planners and billing ria Joseph. For more inforofficials to help with any mation or a tour, please call financial needs. Aside her at 570-271-1000, ext. 8. from focusing on residents’ The views expressed in direct financial needs, this column are those of the various initiatives have oc- writer and do not necescurred to give back to their sarily reflect those of Press community as well. Enterprise Inc.
Continued from page 9 safety technology. The push to engineer self-driving cars has helped heighten awareness about the role technology can play in eliminating the human error that causes most accidents. Google, now part of Alphabet Inc., ignited the selfdriving car research seven years ago when it began working on autonomous vehicles in a secret laboratory. Now, most automakers and other major technology companies, including Apple and Uber, are also working on self-driving technology, though there is still wide disagreement over when robotic chauffeurs will be ready — and legally cleared — to assume sole responsibility for navigating public roads. Google aims to have its fully autonomous vehicles cruising around by 2020. That objective is considered too ambitious by many auto industry executives and experts who believe selfdriving cars are a decade or more away from becoming a reality.
Other technology In the meantime, plenty of other technology should be widely available for older drivers. Last year, the auto industry vowed to make automated emergency brakes a standard feature by September 2022, but it won’t be that long before the technology is widely available. Toyota plans to build it into most models, including its Lexus brand, by the end of this year. Cameras on a dashboard screen that show what’s behind the car have become commonplace in recent years and will be mandatory on all new cars by May 2018. The equipment is expected to be especially helpful for older drivers with a limited range of motion. Other technology expected to assist older drivers includes automated parking, and adaptive headlights that swivel in the same direction as the steering wheel and adjust the beams’ intensity depending on driving conditions and oncoming traffic.
First Columbia 3x11.5.crtr - Page 1 - Composite