CELEBRATING 11 YEARS
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OCT | NOV 2017
Prime Time LIVING
Inspired living in your ime
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WHAT TOMORROW’S RETIREES WANT 10.28.17
IN A LIFE PLAN COMMUNITY
SCAN FOR DIGITAL EDITION
SOLANO EDITION | primetimeliving.org
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Not all hospices are the same. Ask for Yolo by name.
Serving Sacramento, Colusa, Solano, Sutter and Yolo Counties for more than 35 years.
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NAPA/SOLANO EDITION
Prime Time LIVING presents
ON THE COVER
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Publishing/Contact
Walk to End Alzheimer's
Owner/Publisher Tracee Stacy
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What Tomorrow's Retirees Want in a Life Plan community
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Holiday Travel Tips
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WHAT'S INSIDE
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Points Of Interest 8 12 28 29
Sharps Disposal Household Hazardous Waste Disposal Senior Community Centers Resource Guide
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Hey Violet! We've gotcha covered.
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By Craig Dresang, CEO, Yolo Hospice
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What Tomorrow’s Retirees Want in a Life Plan Community
By Paradise Valley Estates
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History of Day of the Dead ~ Día de los Muertos
inspired YOU 21
From Good & Bad to Good & Gooder
By Terry Minion
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Meals on Wheels
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Genetic Counselor Seeks Cancer Connections
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By NorthBay Healthcare
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Walk to End Alzheimer's
Submitted by Dr. Kathy Amacher, DO
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Brain Flexers
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Holiday Travel Tips
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Staying Physically Active with Alzheimer's
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By Travel and Escapes
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Butternut Squash Bisque 3
NAPA/SOLANO EDITION
EDITOR'S CORNER
Words from Wendy Did you notice? It’s already October, with November right on its heels.
Harvest in wine country is ending or close to it… which means a nice long nap for those bottles of goodness. Farmer’s market produce is changing to fall fruits and vegetables…which means different foods on your plate. Days have less hours of sunlight than in the summer months…which means having a plan for weekend activities, like the Western Railway Museum. Halloween and Thanksgiving are approaching. Are your costumes ready? How about finding some new recipes for Thanksgiving?
If you are thinking ahead to a winter getaway in January or February, now is the time to book your airfare and accommodations. If you want that trip to be over the December holidays…that means you should be booking as we speak! Keep us in mind for fall activities ideas, for new tried-and-true recipes, helpful travel tips, important health related tips, and so much more. How is your fall shaping up? We’d love to hear from you. Wendy VanHatten, Editor
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NAPA/SOLANO EDITION
LIFE
! t e l o i V y e H
We’ve gotcha covered. By Craig Dresang, CEO, Yolo Hospice
W
e have a neighbor I’ll call Violet. She is 94. When I saw her this morning she was sporting a florescent swirl of indigo, plum and crimson hair. At first, when I noticed a bounce of color on top of her head I thought it was a flowered hat. As she approached me to say good morning I realized that the spray of color was her
actual hair and that she was, as usual, dressed to the nines with makeup and jewelry perfectly in place. Violet is a trendy dresser with a hip personality. She has lived in our little cul-de-sac since the 1970’s when our neighborhood was first built by the Streng brothers, Bill and Jim. Most people in our close-knit community take great pride in maintaining their midcentury modern homes and yards, and in watching out for one another. The past few years Violet has pushed through a few setbacks including dizzy spells, pneumonia and a mild stroke. But each time she has proved to be resilient even when her normal energy has been diminished just a wee bit. She once told me, “Every time I think that I’m getting old, and gradually going to the grave, something else happens. So I’m still here.” Not long after her stroke, we noticed Violet engaging in her favorite morning ritual of putzing in the expansive rose garden that engulfs her entire front yard. Before the sun gets too intense, she will spend an hour or two pruning the bushes, clipping off dead flowers, and pulling a few weeds. Frequently when she slowly makes her way out to the community mail boxes in front of our house, she’ll linger for a while hoping that another neighbor will come outside to get their mail so that she can say “hi” and chit chat.
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I’m a chit chatter too, so I will sometimes loiter by the mailbox to find out how she’s doing. On the weekends, my partner Joe likes to bring Violet his homemade barbeque or roasted lemon chicken. She usually returns the kindness a few days later by bringing us her special chili cornbread or blueberry muffins. Our other neighbor, Fred, occasionally takes Violet out for Sunday brunch and helps her with small, and sometimes not so small, projects around the house. The day that Violet had her stroke, it was Fred who called the paramedics and stuck by her side to make sure she was okay. Since then I think they talk on the phone about every other day.
More than one-fourth of women between the ages of 65 and 74 live alone.
We’re right there with you every step of the way.
Across the street, and three houses down from Violet is another neighbor named Hilda who also checks in with her every week. Hilda will sometimes grocery shop or pick up prescriptions for Violet. They occasionally have morning coffee together. It was Hilda and her husband Mel who took care of Violet’s little Yorkshire Terriers when she was recovering in the hospital from her stroke.
V: C: R: C:
Two other neighbors, Mary and Bill, always bring Violet little gifts when they return from their frequent vacations to Mexico or wherever . . . bringing her bottles of vanilla, miniature jade trees, or exotic treats for her dogs. When a new neighbor moved onto our street a few months ago, she commented on how our cozy cul-de-sac is somewhat defined by the way neighbors care about Violet. It made me think about the similarity between our neighborhood and the members of the Senior Coalition of
Vacaville Cares Right Choice
585 Nut Tree Court • Vacaville, CA 95687
707-449-8000 Solano County’s best rehab team provided by
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NAPA/SOLANO EDITION
LIFE Solano County. Together, organizations like Yolo Hospice, the Senior Coalition, and many others form a community that shows they care about all of the Violets in our neighborhoods and throughout Solano County. This network of organizations, individuals and volunteers form a safety net for our beloved seniors. Our collective work and service is more important than ever because the number of Americans who will be 65 or older is projected to double over the next several decades. Even today, the number of older Americans exceeds the total combined population of 25 states. The latest studies show that more than onefourth of women between the ages of 65 and 74 live alone. In addition, the demand for elder care will be fueled by a steep rise in the number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease, which could nearly triple from 5 million to 14 million.
In the face of an aging population, there is a sobering reality that only two percent of all philanthropic giving in the United States is directed to senior causes. Organizations from Hawaii to Maine are quickly realizing that need will soon outpace capacity. The Senior Coalition of Solano County and Yolo Hospice are working together to change that two percent reality because we realize that not everybody is as fortunate as Violet is when it comes to maintaining health and benefiting from a strong neighborhood network. To that end, we are calling on our community partners to enhance support for their favorite nonprofit senior-serving organization. By locking arms, fostering more community collaborations, and expanding an already inclusive circle, we will help more seniors live their lives more fully . . . just like Violet.
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NAPA/SOLANO EDITION
HEALTH
Genetic Counselor Seeks
Cancer Connections
Y
ou inherited your eye color from your mom and your hair color from your dad. Did one of them give you an elevated risk of cancer, too? Do you have an inherited medical condition that may be passed down to your children? Those questions can now be answered through a new genetic counseling and testing service available at NorthBay Healthcare. Karen Vikstrom, who has more than 15 years of experience in genetic counseling, offers this cutting-edge technology to at-risk patients through the NorthBay Cancer Center in Vacaville.
explained. “The first breast cancer gene, called BRCA1, was identified in 1994 and we now know there are dozens of genes that potentially cause breast and other cancers. In those five to 10 percent of individuals diagnosed with cancer, there is an inherited factor that we can often identify, and this leads to better treatment and management.” “Karen’s expertise in genetic counseling gives patients the opportunity to have personalized treatment options right
“What we know about genes and their connection to cancer has exploded in recent years,” Karen
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here,” said Teresa Langley, assistant vice president, Oncology, at NorthBay Healthcare. “Previously, patients warranting genetic testing and counseling would have had to travel to San Francisco or Sacramento.”
genes may also cause prostate and pancreatic cancer and melanoma. And a family history of colon cancers may point to another hereditary condition – Lynch Syndrome – a condition that increases the risk of cancers of the uterus, stomach, ovaries, small bowel, pancreas, urinary tract, kidney and bile ducts, and a slightly increased risk of prostate cancer.
How do you know if genetic counseling can help you? There are certain red flags that may crop up when a patient shares their medical and family history with their physician, Teresa explained. For breast cancer, the three most common red flags are if a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer before age 50; if several members of the same generation have been diagnosed with breast cancer; or if it runs in several generations. Women with ovarian cancer at any age should also be evaluated.
A patient can be self-referred for a study or referred by their physician, Karen explained. The patient fills out a questionnaire that she reviews. If the information warrants further investigation, the patient meets with Karen for a cancer risk assessment. She works with the patient to create an even more detailed, threeto four-generation medical pedigree. If genetic testing is indicated, a saliva or blood sample is collected and sent for analysis.
Other red flags include a diagnosis of any cancer in anyone under age 50, or more than one type of cancer in the same person. A pattern of cancers may also be of concern, as researchers now know that some breast and ovarian cancer
“It’s like detective work,” she explained. “I ask lots of questions about every individual in the
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NAPA/SOLANO EDITION
HEALTH family – those with cancer and those without.” Test results are usually available in two to three weeks. She interprets the results and meets with the patient to discuss their next steps.
prevents employers and health insurance companies from using a person's genetic information “It’s like detective in employment or coverage work,” she explained. decisions. This law does not cover life insurance, “I ask lots of questions disability insurance, or about every individual in long-term care insurance.
the family – those with cancer and those without.”
Genetic counseling may be covered by insurance if specific criteria are met. Insurance authorization will be obtained for all patients before they are scheduled for an appointment. If their insurance does not cover the service, Karen can explain other testing options, which often include low-cost, out-of-pocket tests. Patient privacy is paramount and protected by law, Karen explained. The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act of 2008 (GINA)
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And, the results of the test are also protected under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). HIPAA requires that providers, such as doctors, nurses, and hospitals, keep your health information private. “If we can identify people with higher-thanaverage cancer risks, we can implement a screening plan and hopefully prevent cancer or catch the disease early, when it is highly treatable,” she said.
HEALTH More than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease, the sixth-leading cause of death in the U.S. and the only disease among the top 10 causes that cannot be cured, prevented or even slowed. Additionally, more than 15 million family and friends provide care to people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias in the U.S. In Solano County alone, there are more than 6,900 people living with the disease and over 13,000 caregivers. The number of diagnosed cases is expected to grow by 96% over the next 15 years.
IN SOLANO COUNTY TO JOIN THE FIGHT AGAINST THE DISEASE Participants to Raise Critically Needed Funds for Alzheimer’s Care, Support and Research
Register today. Sign up as a Team Captain, join a team or register to walk as an individual at alz.org/walk.
The Alzheimer’s Association® is inviting Solano County residents to join the fight to end Alzheimer’s by participating in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s. The Walk will take place on Saturday, October 28th, 2017 at Harbor Plaza in Suisun City.
Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s® The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Since 1989, the Alzheimer’s Association mobilized millions of Americans in the Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk®; now the Alzheimer’s Association is continuing to lead the way with Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Together, we can end Alzheimer’s – the nation’s sixth-leading cause of death.
Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s participants will complete a one- or three-mile walk and will learn about Alzheimer’s disease, advocacy opportunities, clinical studies enrollment and support programs and services from the Alzheimer’s Association. Walk participants will also join in a meaningful tribute ceremony to honor those affected by Alzheimer’s disease. “I’m here because I lost my wife, Sue, to Alzheimer’s nine years ago this coming Christmas,” said Walk Committee Marketing Chair Ken Wright, “and it is now my life goal to save my friends, neighbors, and certainly out children from the horrific experience of helplessly watching their loved ones slip away over years. I’m excited about how close we are to a cure, and I want to meet the first Alzheimer’s survivor.”
Alzheimer’s Association® The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s. Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.
In addition to the walk around Suisun Harbor, participants will enjoy a Promise Garden opening ceremony, music by popular local band The Tune Riders, and face painting and other activities for the kids.
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HEALTH
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Making House Calls in Vacaville & Fairfield
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Staying
PHYSICALLY ACTIVE with
Alzheimer’s
Internal Medicine, Geriatrics 707-451-4111
Anita Semple, FNP Penelope McAlmond-Ross, PsyD Applied Psychology Systems 707-330-5535
Keeping Dr. Zimmerman's goal alive by caring for those who need care in their homes. Call for more information. For more information on how to donate to the Zimmerman Patient Care Fund visit http://www.suttersolano.org/philanthropy/zimmerman/ or call (530) 750-5220
Looking for In-Home Care? Let us help!
(707) 447-7734 www.americarenorcal.com
Submitted by Dr. Kathy Amacher, DO
Being active and getting exercise helps people with Alzheimer’s disease feel better. Exercise helps keep their muscles, joints, and heart in good shape. It also helps people stay at a healthy weight and have regular toilet and sleep habits. You can exercise together to make it more fun. You want someone with Alzheimer’s to do as much as possible for himself or herself. At the same time, you need to make sure that the person is safe when active.
GETTING STARTED Here are some tips for helping the person with Alzheimer’s disease stay active: Help get the activity started or join in to make the activity more fun.
Sally Price
Patti Ruona
Debbie Doyle
Thank you for trusting us to serve your Senior In-Home Care needs for the past 10 years! boom 14
Be realistic about how much activity can be done at one time. Several 10-minute “mini-workouts” may be best.
Take a walk together each day. Exercise is good for caregivers, too!
Use a stationary bike. Use soft rubber exercise balls or balloons for stretching or throwing back and forth.
Make sure the person with Alzheimer’s disease has an ID bracelet with your phone number if he or she walks alone.
Use stretching bands, which you can buy in sporting goods stores. Be sure to follow the instructions.
Check your local TV guide to see if there is a program to help older adults exercise, or watch exercise videos made for older people.
Lift weights or household items such as soup cans.
Add music to the exercises if it helps the person with Alzheimer’s disease. Dance to the music if possible.
For More Information About Physical Activity and Alzheimer’s
Break exercises into simple, easy-tofollow steps. Make sure the person wears comfortable clothes and shoes that fit well and are made for exercise.
NIA Alzheimer’s and related Dementias Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center 1-800-438-4380 (toll-free) adear@nia.nih.gov www.nia.nih.gov/alzheimers
Make sure he or she drinks water or juice after exercise.
GENTLE EXERCISE
The National Institute on Aging’s ADEAR Center offers information and free print publications about Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias for families, caregivers, and health professionals. ADEAR Center staff answer telephone, email, and written requests and make referrals to local and national resources.
Some people with Alzheimer’s may not be able to get around well. This is another problem that becomes more challenging to deal with as the disease gets worse. Some possible reasons for this include: Trouble with endurance Poor coordination
Alzheimer’s Association 1-800-272-3900 (toll-free, 24/7) 1-866-403-3073 (TTY/toll-free) info@alz.org www.alz.org
Sore feet or muscles Illness Depression or general lack of interest Even if people have trouble walking, they may be able to:
Alzheimer’s Foundation of America 1-866-232-8484 (toll-free) info@alzfdn.org www.alzfdn.org
Do simple tasks around the home, such as sweeping and dusting.
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NAPA/SOLANO EDITION
LIFE
What Tomorrow’s Retirees Want in a Life Plan Community
P
eople are living longer, healthier lives and expecting more from their golden years than ever before. In response, Life Plan Communities like Paradise Valley Estates are relying on research to prepare for continued growth. According to Ziegler Investment Banking, the national leader in senior living financing, U.S. Census data report the fastest growing age group in the United States is 100 years and older. Average life expectancy is increasing steadily—from age 74 for men and 80 for women in 2000, to 77 and 82 projected in 20201. In California, there's a projected population growth rate of 122 percent for people age 65 and older, and 174 percent for age 85 and older by 2040.2 That adds up to more than 10 million and 1.5 million people, respectively. Mary Muñoz is the managing director of senior living at Ziegler. “Now and in the future, these demographics will influence the services and amenities that Life Plan Communities provide,” says Muñoz. “Younger incoming residents want more choice,
more transparency, and more input into the decisions being made around the community. Providers who wish to be successful in the future will need to thoroughly understand evolving consumer wants and needs.” So what is the next generation looking for in a Life Plan Community?
Trustworthy Providers, Affordable Amenities and Comprehensive Care Provider reputation, cost and value, and availability of onsite healthcare top the list of consumer preferences when choosing a Life Plan Community. 3 Top requested services include entertainment programming, wellness and fitness programming, and personal trainers. In terms of amenities, top preferences include fitness centers, outdoor walking or biking paths, an emergency call system, WiFi connectivity, patios or balconies, and garages or covered parking.
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“These findings reflect what we’ve heard from residents and their family members, and will continue to inform our community development strategy in the future,” says Jane Walker, director of sales and marketing at Paradise Valley Estates. “It will always be our goal to provide world-class retirement living along with supportive care services, should those needs arise.”
indicated increased opportunities for staying fit, lifelong learning, choices and options in life, and eating well. “Quality of life and a comprehensive approach to wellness are important to members of the Boomer generation, as well as to those who will follow them,” says Walker. “Physically and mentally, many people are working harder to stay active longer. We expect that trend to continue as advances in healthcare and technology increase, and look forward to welcoming many new members to Paradise Valley Estates.”
Opportunities to Age Well Compared to a single-family home, living in a Life Plan Community provides more opportunities to meet new people, learn new things, and pursue new interests—in short, to age well.
1 U.S. National Center for Health Statistics (Dec. 2010) 2 Graying in the Golden State, Public Policy Institute of California (Nov. 2000) 3 The National Survey of Family Members of Residents Living in CCRCs (2011).
The majority of survey respondents ranked personal safety and security as the greatest benefit of a Life Plan Community lifestyle, followed by socialization, aging in place, and convenience. Seven in ten respondents
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FAIRFIELD, CALIFORNIA
9/2/16 2:45 PM
NAPA/SOLANO EDITION
TRAVEL
Holiday Travel Tips By Travels and Escapes
S
ummer is ending. The pool is still refreshing. Days can still be hot. Why would I want to think about winter?
Good question. However, it you’d really like to get away for a winter vacation, now is the time to book that airfare and decide on those accommodations. Yes, now is a good time to get serious about booking your airfare. Especially if it is an international trip you’re planning. I’ve found that international airfare starts rising about 90 days out. Domestic fares are supposedly at their best 54 days out, unless you find a
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fantastic fare. Also, where do you want to stay? Is it an allinclusive, a vacation rental, hotel, or resort? Are you flexible or do you need a specific time and location? Look at Internet specials. Sometimes you can get lucky and find deals at the last minute as resorts like to have all their facilities booked, but don’t count on that. If you’re traveling internationally, be sure to check your passport. Make sure it doesn’t expire in the next six months. If it’s close to expiring, apply for a renewal immediately. Right now, the passport offices tell me there
FOOD & WINE
could be a three month wait. After all, it will be January in three months!
Anjou Chili Spread Do you have a house sitter or pet sitter? If so, check their availability. You wouldn’t want to find out at the last minute they are already ❱booked ½ Jar with Spicysomeone Red Pepper else.Jelly (I used one with Anjou Chilis in it)
❱ 12 ounces Mascarpone Start looking now
at who offers ❱ what ¼ Cuppackages finely chopped Almonds and what appeals ❱ ¼ Cup crispbudget. Bacon tofinely youchopped and your ❱ ½ tsp. Red Pepper Flakes (or more to taste)
Do your plans include a special type of getaway ❱where ¼ to ½ tsp. Cayenne Pepper you need a guide? If you’re thinking of ❱diving Ground Black Pepper to taste in the Caribbean, exploring Antarctica, checking out all the Christmas markets in Germany, or hiking in the Andes…regardless of Mix and refrigerate. Taste and the time of year, you’ll need some type of guide. adjust spices as necessary. Start looking now at who offers what packages
and what appeals to you and your budget. If you’re planning weekend getaways instead of a longer stay, start looking at where you want to go and what’s going on that weekend. Maybe there are festivals, wine harvest events, concerts, sporting events, or performances which would be fun to attend. Accommodations might already be booking or booked. Check the calendar for events in the area where you want to go. Regardless of when or where you are thinking of going…a little advance planning now will help you have a wonderful time on your winter getaway. Let me know where you went… Wendy VanHatten is the editor-in-chief, an avid travel writer, and travel blogger. Check out her blog at http://www. travelsandescapesblog.com/ for travel ideas and tips, travel product reviews, and the most up-to-date information for your travels.
This easy appetizer can be served with crackers, veggies, or on crostini.
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Kalil Macklin
Kaiser Permanente Medicare Health Plan Sales Specialist
707-249-0931
mykpagent.org/kalilm 1Rated by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Health Plan Management System, Plan Ratings 2017. Kaiser Permanente contract #H0524. Medicare evaluates plans based on a 5-star rating system. Star Ratings are calculated each year and may change from one year to the next. Kaiser Permanente is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Kaiser Permanente depends on contract renewal. You must reside in the Kaiser Permanente Medicare health plan service area in which you enroll. A sales person will be present with information and applications. For accommodation of persons with special needs at sales meetings, call 707-249-0931. Calling this number will direct you to a sales specialist. Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Y0043_N00005096_CA Inc., 393 E. Walnut St., Pasadena, CA 91188-8514. boom
19 12 Under no circumstance can a placement size be changed or altered due to the need to adhere to regulatory compliance.
NAPA/SOLANO EDITION
HEALTH
BRAIN FLEXERS
TWO SYLLABLE FRUITS AND VEGETABLES Take a “trip” through the grocery store, the grocery ads or your own cupboards and name as many fruits and vegetables as you can that contain 2 syllables.
For more great ways to boost your brain:
POSSIBLE ANSWERS
Get ready to flex, tone, and boost the brain with Brain Flexers mindstimulating book! Science has revealed how much our brains can grow and change in response to learning throughout life, even when a person is experiencing memory loss. Regardless of age, everyone has the ability to change their brain for the better! Authors, Kristin Einberger and Janelle Sellick, M.S., have created activities that are fun—and appropriately challenging! And just like any good workout, the benefits increase the more you do!
Find your copy here http://www.healthpropress.com/product/brain-flexers/
1. mushroom
19. parsnip
2. apple
20. fennel
3. lettuce
21.
4. pepper
22. capers
bok choy
23. guava 24. rhubarb 25. mango 26. cherry 27. kumquat 28. mustard 5. carrot
29. olives
6. berries 7. radish 8. okra 9. onion 10. cabbage 11. grapefruit
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12. orange
30. kiwi
13. eggplant
31.
14. endive
32. shallot
15. lemon
33. pumpkin
16. melon
34. parsley
17. spinach
35. loquat
18. turnip
36. guava
ugli (fruit)
YOU
"He who thanks but with the lips thanks but in part; the full, the true Thanksgiving comes from the heart." — J. A. Shedd
FROM
Good & Bad Good & Gooder TO
B
By Terry Minion
ecoming a grateful person requires practice, and it also requires letting go of anger, disappointment, complaining and the like; however, we need not make a complete and immediate turnaround, as it is just fine with the little-at-a-time method of accomplishment. As I've found in my life that the more I am grateful, the less I find to be unhappy about. It is an accumulating process that overshadows, or rather, weeds out the need or desire to complain or be angry or unhappy. Even as some of those negative things pop up from time to time, they are so easily dealt with by finding what in them there is to be grateful for.
"Thou hast given so much to me, give one thing more, --a grateful heart; not thankful when it pleaseth me, as if Thy blessings had spare days, but such a heart whose pulse may be Thy praise." — George Herbert At first, it may seem strange that something that is making you angry or upset could have something in it that there is to be thankful for, but I assure you that it is in there. Indeed, it may not even be "it," as you may find many things to be thankful for in this that now appears to cause your distress. As you widen your field to see a bigger picture of something you’ve tuned into that is upsetting on the surface, you cannot help but find something or even many things to be thankful for. The cause for anger or concern then becomes a source of celebration instead of a pity party. I really think that this was what Paul in the Bible was referring to when he said to be thankful for all things. All experiences can be experienced as for the good of us or another if we only look
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at them with new eyes and learn to respond instead of reacting. It is the small picture; that is, focusing on the thing that is distressing to us, that keeps us upset. Heck, we may even find by widening our field that we can see ourselves in a previous time causing the same stress on someone else. A little patience goes a long way here. My mother told us when we were very young to count to ten before responding when something makes you mad. Not bad advice, really, but even better is to look for the benefit in all events, and then it becomes much easier to be thankful for all things. Once we start looking at every situation as a way to learn and grow regardless of how it causes us to feel at the moment, progress is imminent. I now absolutely believe there is a reward for me in every event or situation. Indeed, I now think that the things that tick me off have even more benefit once I shake off that illusion and start looking. This is how we can practice Thanksgiving every day. As we find what is good in every situation, we cannot help but be grateful. I think I’ll change my judgments from seeing good and bad to seeing good and gooder. Terry Minion is an owner/manager of www. UpwardTrend.org, a website, online marketing company based in Fairfield CA. He also writes the CTS Daily Inspirations at www.ctsdaily.net.
NAPA/SOLANO EDITION
YOU
Serving Solano County Since 1977 MEALS ON WHEELS WANTS TO WISH ALL OF OUR FRIENDS HAPPY HOLIDAYS
Holidays are a time for family, food and togetherness. Unfortunately there are thousands of seniors right here in Solano County who are alone and hungry. Each senior that we serve is a unique, beautiful person with needs. Together with our circle of 200+ volunteers we help our seniors age with dignity and security. At this point in life no one should have to wonder where their next meal will come from. Your donation can “Deliver a Difference” for seniors like Rachel and give them a reason to be thankful this holiday season. Following is Rachel’s story who is just one of our many clients.
As a result of her dementia she had started several fires by forgetting food on the stove so her stove had been disconnected. Her microwave was broken and she had no way to heat the meals we brought her. We contacted our local Home Depot who graciously donated a one-touch microwave for Rachel. We wrote directions and practiced using the microwave with her. This occurred during the Thanksgiving holiday and two Meals on Wheels staff members took turns checking on her each day and making sure she was eating over the break. We worked diligently with Adult Protective Services and Area Agency on Aging and ultimately were able to get her a new caretaker and case management services that ensured she was being taken care of on a daily basis. During this holiday season as you count your many blessings, I invite you to make a charitable contribution to Meals on Wheels of Solano County and “Deliver a Difference.” Your donation will help ensure that we continue to deliver a nutritious meal and a warm smile approximately 150,000 times in the coming year.
How You Can Help... Donate Now - 100% of your donation goes to feed seniors right here in Solano County. Adopt-a-Senior for 6 months: $120 Adopt-a-Senior for a year: $240 For $1000 you can fee 8 seniors for an entire year! Last holiday season Rachel came to us as a client who was referred by social services. Rachel lived alone in a small apartment complex and suffered from advanced dementia. She had no family or close friends and her previous caregiver had taken advantage of her financially.
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Give monthly for ongoing support. Leave a Legacy by including Meals on Wheels of Solano County in your estate planning. Creating a Living Legacy, which may cost you nothing now, is to include Meals on Wheels of Solano County in your estate planning. Make
a gift for the future and create a living legacy that reflects your values.
CHIROPRACTIC & ACUPUNCTURE
You can make your donation via our website at www.mealsonwheelssolano.org/give or mail a check to Meals on Wheels of Solano County 95 Marina Center, Suisun, CA 94585. If you can’t donate financially PLEASE consider donating time to volunteer as a meal delivery driver in your community. If you are interested in volunteering contact our office at 707-425-0638 and ask for Carrie our Volunteer Coordinator. Thank you so much for your support and we wish you a Happy Holiday Season from everyone here at Meals on Wheels of Solano County.
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NAPA/SOLANO EDITION
12% of Solano County’s population are seniors, followed by 40-59 year olds at 29%. This means that within 2 decades it is anticipated that 46% (approximately 200,000) of Solano County’s population will be seniors.
How We Help... 2.5 million seniors receive homedelivered or congregate meals via Meals on Wheels programs nationwide. Half a million veterans receive homedelivered or congregate meals via Meals on Wheels programs nationwide. Last year in Solano County we served over 150,000 meals to seniors in need. Our annual client satisfaction survey showed that: ❱ 93% of our clients rated the food as good or excellent ❱ 100% of our clients stated that they were able to maintain or increase their access to nutritious food. ❱ 91% of our clients stated that their overall health and well-being has improved as a result of our programs.
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FOOD & WINE
Butternut Squash Bisque DIRECTIONS
For the Bisque: Peel squash and remove the seeds. Cut squash into 1/2-inch chunks and set aside. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to a medium saucepot over medium-high heat. Add onion, celery, carrot, 1 clove garlic, and sage. Stir to coat. Cook until the onion begins to brown, stirring occasionally. Once browned, add the squash, stock, and 1 cup water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until squash is tender. Turn off heat, cover, and let soup cool slightly while you prepare the croutons and sour cream. Once slightly cooled, use a standard or immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If using a standard blender, puree in small batches to prevent spillage. Add in the milk and stir through.
INGREDIENTS ◗ 1 medium butternut squash ◗ 1 yellow onion, finely diced ◗ 1 celery stalk, sliced
For the Spicy Sour Cream:
◗ 1 carrot, shredded
In a medium saute pan over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the jalapeño. Stirring often, cook the pepper until it becomes soft. Once soft, transfer the pepper to a bowl with the sour cream and stir through. Set aside.
◗ 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded, diced fine ◗ 2 cloves garlic, chopped ◗ 1 cup water ◗ 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth ◗ 3/4 cup low fat milk
For the Croutons:
◗ 1/2 cup fat free sour cream
To the same pan that you had cooked the jalapeño, add the remaining tablespoon olive oil, the garlic, and the bread cubes. Toss to coat and cook until the bread begins to brown on each side. Once browned, remove the pan from the heat.
◗ 3 slices bread, cut in 1/2 inch cubes ◗ 3 tablespoons olive oil ◗ 1 teaspoon fresh sage leaves, chopped ◗ Salt and pepper
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NAPA/SOLANO EDITION
LIFE
History of Day of the Dead
~ DĂa de los Muertos Day of the Dead is an interesting holiday celebrated in central and southern Mexico during the chilly days of November 1 & 2. Even though this coincides with the Catholic holiday called All Soul's & All Saint’s Day, the indigenous people have combined this with their own ancient beliefs of honoring their deceased loved ones. They believe that the gates of heaven are opened at midnight on October 31, and the spirits of all deceased children (angelitos) are allowed to reunite with their families for 24 hours. On November 2, the spirits of the adults come down to enjoy the festivities that are prepared for them.
de muerto. The altar needs to have lots of food, bottles of soda, hot cocoa and water for the weary spirits. Toys and candies are left for the angelitos, and on Nov. 2, cigarettes and shots of mezcal are offered to the adult spirits. Little folk art skeletons and sugar skulls, purchased at open-air markets, provide the final touches. Day of the Dead is a very expensive holiday for these self-sufficient, rural based, indigenous families. Many spend over two month's income to honor their dead relatives. They believe that happy spirits will provide protection, good luck and wisdom to their families. Ofrendabuilding keeps the family close. On the afternoon of Nov. 2, the festivities are taken to the cemetery. People clean tombs, play cards, listen to the village band and reminisce about their loved ones. Tradition
In most Indian villages, beautiful altars (ofrendas) are made in each home. They are decorated with candles, buckets of flowers (wild marigolds called cempasuchil & bright red cock's combs) mounds of fruit, peanuts, plates of turkey mole, stacks of tortillas and big Day-ofthe-Dead breads called pan boom 26
keeps the village close. Day of the Dead is becoming very popular in the U.S. ~ perhaps because we don't have a way to celebrate and honor our dead, or maybe it's because of our fascination with it's mysticism.
THE CATHOLIC WORLD Day of the Dead is celebrated throughout Mexico and the Catholic world... Italy, Spain, South America and the Philippines all celebrate All Souls and All Saints Day on November 1st and 2nd. Special Masses and perhaps cleaning of the cemetery tombs are part of the traditional activities... it's only in Central and Southern Mexico where the colorful parties take place in the cemeteries and elaborate ofrenda altars are built in the homes to honor specific family members who have passed on. Mexicansugarskull.com
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NAPA/SOLANO EDITION
Senior Centers
Please contact your local Senior Center for Schedule & Event Information
American Canyon Senior Center 2185 Elliott Drive American Canyon 707-647-4369
Rio Vista Senior Center 25 Main Street, Rio Vista 707-374-3349
Florence Douglas 333 Amador St. Vallejo 707-643-1044
Dixon 201 South 5th St. 707-678-7022
Yolo County’s
Fairfield 1200 Civic Center Drive 707-428-7421 McBride 91 Town Square Solano County’s Vacaville 707-469-6660
Solano County’s
Suisun City 318 Merganser Dr. 707-421-7203
Yolo County’s
Benicia Senior Center 187 L Street Solano County’s 707-745-1202
Solano County’s
Senior Center Without Walls seniorcenterwithoutwalls.org 877-797-7299
Find the glasses and you could WIN!
Find these reading glasses in our magazine and be registered to win a $50 Olive Garden gift card! Simply e-mail the PAGE NUMBER and your NAME and ADDRESS or enter by mail by 11/15/2017. primetimeliving@aol.com or
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RESOURCE GUIDE SOLANO COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY
AREA AGENCY ON AGING
AREA AGENCY ON AGING: 800-510-2020
The toll free number will automatically route the caller to the city of residence.
NAPA OMBUDSMAN: 707-258-9348
1-800-510-2020
Administrative Offices: F a i r f i el d: V a ca v i l l e: V a l l ej o:
644-6612 4 2 9 -6 2 3 5 4 6 9 -6 6 7 9 6 4 3 -1 7 9 7
ALZHEIMER'S ASSOCIATION
IN-HOME SUPPORTIVE SERVICES: 707-253-3818 ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES: 707-253-4625 MEALS ON WHEELS: 7077-253-6111 NAPA VALLEY HOSPICE & ADULT DAY:
1-800-660-1993
NORTHBAY ALZHEIMER'S RESOURCE CENTER
707-258-9080
707-624-7971
NORTHBAY ALZHEIMER'S DAY CARE CENTER 707-624-7970 Fax: 707-624-7969
FAIRFIELD SENIOR DAY PROGRAM 707-428-7742
PTS_Sol_OctNov09:Layout 1
9/29/09
7:59 AM
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REDWOOD CAREGIVER RESOURCE CENTER 800-834-1636
FAITH IN ACTION: Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers of Solano County, Caregiver Program, Ride with Pride & Cancer Patient Navigator Program ica is Respite about – helping each other, the foundation of South Solano County: our country,” she said. “There707-425-6164 is a ton of informaNorth Solano County: 707-469-6675
tion at the (Solano Community) Foundation and IN-HOME SUPPORTIVE SERVICES (I.H.S.S.) people should be using this resource.” Public Authority: 707-784-8259 Directory 7Online I n t a kThe e L i nFoundation e: 0 7 -7 8 4 -8is 2 5 9available to the public from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday MEALS ON WHEELS of Solano County through Friday at Solano Community FoundaHome Delivered Meals: 707-425-0638 tion, Fairfield, 1261 Travis Boulevard, Suite 320, in FairDixon, Rio Vista, Suisun & Vacaville field.Delivered PleaseMeals: call ahead to reserve at spot at Home 707-644-7444 Benicia & Vallejo 707-399-3846. Congregate Dining: 707-426-3079 Andrea E. Garcia is Director of CommunicaSenior centers in Solano County tions for Solano Community Foundation. She HEALTH & can beINSURANCE reached COUNSELING at 707-280-8771 or at ADVOCACY PROGRAM (HICAP) andrea@solanocf.org. 800-434-0222
SOLANO OMBUDSMAN
24-Hour Hotline: 800-231-4024
ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES 707-784-8259 24-Hour Hotline: 800-850-0012
McCune Garden Chapel
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