50 10 15 by 50+ LifeStyles

W W W . 5 0 P L U S N Y . C O M

50+ LifeStyles

October 2015

Everything You Need to Know About … Medicare Open Enrollment

ber 15, 2014, and beneficiaries When Can I Join a have a variety of choices of subMedicare Part D Prescription month you turn 65) and; The three (3) months after the month sidized prescription plans. Seniors and Drug Plan for 2015?

When is Open Enrollment for Part C & D 2015? You can only change your Medicare Advantage or Prescription Drug (Medicare Part D) coverage twice a year: During the Open Enrollment period and the Dis-Enrollment period. Medicare part b premium 2015. Medicare’s open enrollment 2015 season starts Octo-

their family members can use the online Medicare Plan Finder to input individual prescription lists, and find Medicare prescription plans in their region. Almost 90 percent of Medicare’s nearly 50 million beneficiaries have some form of prescription drug coverage, with more than 17 million enrolled in private drug plans through the prescription drug program. Of those, 14 million are in the top 10 plans. From October 15 through December 7, 2014, Medicare beneficiaries and those who are eligible for Medicare all have the opportunity to enroll in the Medicare Part D prescription drug program. Medicare Part D is one of the fed’s most successful programs and a program that affects the lives of millions of Americans. Continued on page 7

W W W . 5 0 P L U S N Y . C O M

October 2015

you become eligible for Medicare (again, three months after your Birthday month). Your coverage will begin either on the first day of your Birthday month or, when you join during or after your Birthday month, on the first day of the month after the month in which you join. Medicare Open Enrollment 2014Most seniors enrolled in Medicare prescription drug plans face double-digit premium hikes if they do not shop for a better premium deal.

50+ LifeStyles

If you currently have Medicare Hospital or Medicare Medical Insurance (Parts A and/or B), you can enroll or re-enroll in a Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan (PDP) or Medicare Advantage Plan with Prescription Coverage (MA.PD) starting on October 15 through December 7, 2015. This time period is called the Annual Coordinated Election Period and your newly chosen Medicare Part D plan begins on January 1of the following year. So, for the 2015 Medicare Part D Plans, you can enroll between October 15 2014 and December 7, 2014. Your 2015 Part D Plan will begin January 1, 2015. If you turn 65 or become eligible for Medicare outside of the Annual Coordinated Election Period, you have a seven (7) month window in which to enroll in the current year's plan (2014) and avoid any possible penalties: The three (3) months before the month of your eligibility (for instance, your Birthday month); The month of your eligibility (e.g. the

EDITORIAL

Welcome Fall

W W W . 5 0 P L U S N Y . C O M

Well, it’s officially fall as I write this, which means some of the nicest weather of the year is upon us. After a dry, sunny summer, which went all-too-fast, the nights have cooled down, the first breath of air in the morning tastes and smells crisp, and the first leaves are showing up on the ground (my least favorite aspect of fall, being I still have to deal with copious quantities of those things!). As an avid boater, this is a great time for boating, as well. The casual summer crowd is pretty well gone, with but a few stragglers on the weekends, the end of fishing season is rearing its head (or tail, as the case may be), but — by and large — the waters are serene and beautiful. Eventually I’ll pull my boat out (I usually stay in the water until the first freeze), but until then there’ll still be a few fishing trips before the start of scallop season on November 2. The end of the month will signal every kid’s favorite holiday — Halloween. I shouldn’t limit it to kids; it’s my wife’s favorite holiday, as well! This year, Halloween falls on a Saturday, which means there isn’t any school the next day, so it’ll be a day-long project, with which even diehard revelers will — eventually — get bored (we can but hope!). But it’s one day a year, so I guess I can make it through. And then we’ll be staring winter in its frosty face. So, enjoy nature’s beauty (checkout www.foliagenetwork.com for bi-weekly foliage change reports!) as we go through the month. If you have to do some raking, take it a little bit at a time, rather than killing yourself trying to do it all in one day (or, better yet, hire some strong backs!). See you in November. — Gary P. Joyce; Ed.

50 +LifeStyles Since 1975

www.50plusny.com Advertising Rate Card By Request COPY DEADLINE 15th of previous month ©50+ Lifestyles™

Like Us On

President/Publisher Frank C. Trotta ext. 100

Editor Gary P. Joyce ext. 250

Executive Editor Tim Edwards ext. 111

Art Director Clifford Chiesa ext. 231

Vice President Sales & Production Marie S. Trotta ext. 113

Director of Community Relations Gene Pritz

EDITORIAL OFFICE: 146 South Country Road, Suite 4 • Bellport, NY 11713 Tel (631) 286-0058 · Fax (631) 286-6866 • www.50plusny.com

50+ LifeStyles October 2015

W W W . 5 0 P L U S N Y . C O M

October 2015

According to the American Heart Association, sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) kills over 350,000 people each year in the United States—more than lung cancer, breast cancer and HIV/AIDS combined. October is SCA Awareness Month, so take time to learn about SCA: a sudden loss of heart function caused by rapid or chaotic activity in the heart’s electrical system. While SCA is commonly mistaken for a heart attack, they are not the same. SCA’s chaotic electrical activity causes the heart to stop beating, so blood isn’t pumped to the rest of the body. A heart attack is a “plumbing” issue caused by a blocked vessel, which then leads to loss of blood supply to a portion of the heart muscle. Fortunately, many deaths from SCA are preventable. SCA can be reversible if it is treated within minutes through the delivery of a lifesaving electrical shock, as reported in an Indian Pacing and Electrophysiology Journal study. A shock can be delivered either with automated external defibrillators (AED), which are increasingly available in public locations, or with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). These stopwatch-sized devices are implanted into the chest to continuously monitor the heart and deliver shocks when necessary to restore a normal heartbeat. ICDs are 98 percent effective in treating dangerously fast heart rhythms that can lead to SCA, according to the Journal of the American College of Cardiology; however, they are underutilized and many people who need them do not get them. Now that you have background about SCA, follow these steps to better understand your risk and prevent SCA: 1. Evaluate your risk factors, such as a family history of heart disease, previous heart attack or heart failure, and chest pain. 2. Create a list of questions to ask your doctor and make an appointment to discuss and assess your risk. 3. If ordered by your doctor, take one or more of the following diagnostic tests: echocardiogram, electrocardiogram (ECG), chest Xray, exercise test or cardiac catheterization. 4. If you are at risk of SCA, discuss all potential treatment options with your physician, including the potential benefits of an ICD. Remember, SCA can happen to a person of any age, race or gender, so everyone should take time to discuss the risk with a physician. To learn more, visit www.asktheicd.com/sca. It’s a good idea to take to heart all the information you can about your risk for sudden cardiac arrest. — NAPS

50+ LifeStyles

Four Steps To Stay Heart Healthy During Sudden Cardiac Arrest Awareness Month

Nassau County Caregiver Support Groups Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano announced that the County Offices for the Aging and Mental Health, in cooperation with county libraries are offering support groups specifically targeted to respond to the needs of caregivers of older persons. Following are some of the locations, times and dates. Persons interested in attending for the first time, or in need of additional information, should call 516-227-7071.

October 7 Long Beach Public Library, 101 West Park Avenue 2nd Floor Meeting Room, Long Beach; 9:30 to 11 a.m.

October 7 W W W . 5 0 P L U S N Y . C O M

Shelter Rock Public Library, 165 Searingtown Road, Albertson; 2:30 to 4:30 p.m.

October 14 Elmont Public Library, 700 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont; 2 to 4 p.m.

Me & My Shadow HAVE A PICTURE OF YOU AND YOUR GRANDCHILD? Send it to: Me and My Shadow, 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713, or e-mail to: editor@50plusny.com and put Shadow in the “Subject” line.

Kimberly Torrusio of Copiague, enjoying a beautiful day in the gardens with her granddaughter Lily (7). I love this little girl to the moon and back! We always have fun together.

LifeStyles Puzzle Solution from page 21

50+ LifeStyles October 2015

C A B S A N A C M I N O L G R A D I O N S G A T M I N A K A B U E W E S L O N E P L E A

R E M O N D A T A U R I S T I S F I R M I N I B O X E S A R E T R T S K K I A I M I N E E L E V R O W

Include your name, phone number and town of residence, and your grandchild’s first name and age.

LifeStyles Sudoku Solution from page 21

I B I D E M

L A D Y

U S H E U D R R A A T Y E

L I E U

S L A P

M E A M S O S L S O R T I

Everything You Need to Know About … Medicare Open Enrollment Part D provides Medicare beneficiaries in every state a choice of competing, affordable prescription drug plans to meet their medication needs. The average monthly premiums for Medicare Part D prescription drug plans will remain the same in 2014 at approximately $30, the third consecutive year at that level. Other changes to Medicare's Part D in 2015 include increases in price discounts for beneficiaries who find themselves in the donut hole. The discount on brand name drugs in the coverage gap will increase from 50 percent to 52.5 percent, and generic drugs from 14% to 21%.

Continued from page 3

reach $4,750. After that, the enrollee reaches catastrophic coverage and pays only a small portion of drug costs, either 5 percent or copayments of $2.65 for generics and $6.60 for brands, whichever is more. EPIC: A New York program that helps low-income seniors pay for Part D premiums and supplements their out-of-pockets drug costs. To be eligible, seniors must make less than $35,000 or $50,000 for a couple. For more information or an application, call 1-800-332-3742 (TTY: 1-800-290-9138). October 15, 2015 - Medicare open enrollment period begins for the 2014 benefit year December 7, 2015 - Medicare open enrollment period ends for the 2014 benefit year January 1, 2016 - Changes made during open enrollment period take effect

Definitions

W W W . 5 0 P L U S N Y . C O M

50+ LifeStyles October 2015

Medicare Part A: Covers inpatient care in hospital, hospice and nursing home and home health care (but not long term care). Free for most. Part B: Covers doctor’s visits, tests and other outpatient care. Charges a premium. Part C: Medicare Advantage plans let private companies offer both Part A and Part B benefits with fewer out-ofpocket costs than original Medicare. Many charge a premium on top of the Part B premium. Part D: Prescription drug coverage purchased from a private company. Medigap: Supplemental insurance from private companies that covers the deductibles and co-insurance not paid by original Medicare. Plans run from A to N. Open enrollment: The only period during which beneficiaries may change Advantage plans or opt in or out of original Medicare. Medigap coverage may be purchased any time. Doughnut hole: A gap in prescription drug benefits. In 2015, Part D enrollees will pay a monthly premium and may, depending on the plan, pay a deductible on prescriptions. Once any deductible is met, they pay co-payments or co-insurance for their drugs until total drug spending – what the plan pays and what the enrollee pays combined – reaches $2,970 for the year. Then the enrollee pays 47.5 percent of the cost of brand-name drugs and 79 percent of the cost of generics until total out-ofpocket expenses for the year

Veterans

News ★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★★

★★★★★★★★★★

$160,000 Raised for Local Veterans via Suffolk Marathon

W W W . 5 0 P L U S N Y . C O M

On September 21, 2015, Suf folk County Executive Steve Bellone was joined by marathon sponsors, various local veteran organizations and local officials to announce that $160,000 was raised for veteran ser vices through the Suffolk County Marathon and Half Marathon held on Sunday, September 13. More than 3500 participants from 25 states and four countries ran in the event. “On behalf of our 1.5 million residents in Suffolk County, I am happy to announce that the Inaugural Suffolk County Marathon raised over $160,000 for veteran organizations,” said County Executive Steve Bellone. “These funds will go a long way in expanding and enhancing services for our veterans. Legislation will be laid on the table to create a marathon funding advisory board who will be tasked with reviewing applications and awarding funding to veteran organizations which serve Suffolk County veterans.

50+ LifeStyles October 2015

W W W . 5 0 P L U S N Y . C O M

Jackie Joyner-Kersee to speak at Dubbed “The Greatest Female Athlete of the 20th Century” by Sports Illustrated, Olympic Gold Medalist Jackie JoynerKersee will be the keynote speaker for Stony Brook Medicine’s third annual Women’s Health Day on Saturday, October 10, at the Melville Marriott Long Island, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Joyner-Kersee is also a tireless advocate for education, health issues, racial equality, social reform and women’s rights. The morning kicks off with 18 Stony Brook Medicine experts who will share the latest information, research and thinking about topics that concern women most. At lunch, Joyner-Kersee will speak about “Running the Race with Grace and Humility.” Seminar topics and Stony Brook Medicine speakers include: • Being Fit: What Does It Actually Mean Anyway? Barbara Mills, MPS, DNP, Adult Nurse Practitioner

• Nutrition Strategies to Turn Back the Clock Lorraine Danowski, MS, RD, Dietitian, Nutritionist • Dementia: Signs and Symptoms: Darlene Jyringi, MPS, Program Director, Alzheimer’s Disease Assistance Center of Long Island at Stony Brook Medicine • Women and Stress: When Is It Time to Ask for Help? Marsha Tanenberg-Karant, MD, Psychiatrist • Herbal Products: How Safe and Effective Are They? Edmund Hayes, RPh, PharmD, Assistant Director of Pharmacy; Amanda Eloma, RPh, PharmD; Amanda Maione, RPh, PharmD; Stephanie Romano, RPh, PharmD • Circulation Problems in Women Angela A. Kokkosis, MD, Vascular Surgeon • The Connection Between Breast Cancer and Heart Disease Lea N. Baer, MD, Medical Oncologist and Co-Director, Cardio-Oncology Program; Michelle Weisfelner Bloom, MD, Cardiologist and Co-Director, Cardio-Oncology Program • Colorectal Cancer and You Minsig Choi, MD, Director, Outpatient Medical Oncology and Director, Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology; Alexander Stessin, MD, PhD, Radiation Oncologist

50+ LifeStyles October 2015

Stony Brook Medicine’s Women’s Health Day • Managing Diabetes: Marina Charitou, MD, Endocrinologist • Weight Loss Strategies That Work: Darragh Herlihy, NP-C, Adult Nurse Practitioner, Bariatric and Metabolic Weight Loss Center

Marriott Long Island is located at 1350 Walt Whitman Road in Melville. For more information, call Stony Brook Medicine at 631444-4000. To register, visit womenshealthday.com.

• Staying on Your Feet — Balance and Strength Tips: Kimberly Belizar, PT, Physical Therapist • Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Controlling Your Symptoms Through Diet: Ellen Li, MD, PhD, Division Chief, Gastroenterology and Hepatology • Women and Heart Disease: Allison McLarty, MD, Co-Director, Ventricular Assist Device Program, Stony Brook University Heart Institute

W W W . 5 0 P L U S N Y . C O M

50+ LifeStyles October 2015

After each session, Stony Brook experts will also be available to answer questions and connect you with helpful resources. Then at noon, the buffet luncheon begins and all eyes and ears will be on Jackie Joyner-Kersee. There will also be door prizes at the conclusion of the event. Registration is required, and the registration fee is $25. It includes your choice of three health seminars, continental breakfast and a buffet luncheon with Joyner-Kersee. The Melville

+ 50 LifeStyles 20

In our continuing effort to give our readers what they want, we are asking you to voice y All surveys received will be entered in a drawing for a $100 1st prize, $50 2nd prize and before October 31, 2015. Only one survey per person, please! All responses will be hel only. Your contact information is needed to be entered to win, however if you do not wi your voice can be counted. Mail to 50+Lifestyles: 146 So. Country Road, Bellport,, Name Address City, State, Zip E-mail Your Age: ________ ❑Male ❑Female Your Spouse’s Age: _______ ❑Male ❑Female Are you: ❑Married ❑Single ❑Divorced ❑Widowed ❑In A Relationship Present work status: ❑Full Time ❑Part Time ❑Retired ❑Looking for Employment ❑Full Time ❑Part Time Do you vote? ❑Always ❑Sometimes ❑Rarely ❑Never Your Health: ❑Excellent ❑Good ❑Fair ❑Poor Do you consider yourself active? ❑Yes ❑No Do You Exercise Regularly? ❑Yes ❑No Do you belong to a gym? ❑Yes ❑No ❑Would like to join one Do you attend exercise classes? ❑Yes ❑No If yes, what type? _________________________________________ Housing: ❑Own ❑Rent ❑Condo ❑House ❑Apartment ❑Retirement Community Household Net Worth (in $1000): ❑Under $50 ❑$50-$99 ❑$100-$249 ❑$250-$349 ❑$350-up Education Level: ❑High School ❑Some College ❑Degreed ❑Advance Degree In the Next Year Do You Plan on Purchasing: ❑Home (primary) – if yes, ❑Single Family ❑Multi-Family ❑Condo ❑55+ Community ❑Other ❑2nd Home (vacation/seasonal), if yes what state?_________________ ❑Remodel Current Home Do you have grandchildren? ❑Yes ❑No, If yes how many?______ Approximately How Much Do You Spend on each grandchild monthly? ____________________________ Do your grandchildren live with you? ❑Yes ❑No ❑Not Applicable Do you babysit your grandchildren? ❑Yes ❑No ❑Not Applicable Do you vacation with your grandchildren? ❑Yes ❑No ❑Not Applicable What activities do you enjoy with your grandchildren? ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________

How Often Do You Dine Out Each Month: ❑1 to 4x ❑5x or more. Are You Planning on Taking a Vacation This Year: ❑Yes ❑No If yes, will you book ❑Online ❑Travel Agent ❑Not Sure What Type: ❑Cruise ❑River Cruise ❑All-inclusive ❑Resorts ❑RV ❑Auto Do You Use the Internet? ❑Yes ❑No Do you own any of the following technology? (check all that apply): ❑Smartphone ❑Tablet ❑Notebook Computer ❑Desktop Computer ❑Other ___________________ Which of the following do you utilize on your cell phone, tablet or computer? (check all that apply): ❑Social Media ❑E-mail ❑Photos ❑Information ❑Banking ❑Shopping ❑Facebook ❑Instagram ❑Twitter ❑LinkedIn ❑Texting ❑Face Time ❑Skype ❑Internet ❑Read Newspapers/Magazines ❑Other ______________________________ Do You Visit 50plusny.com: ❑Yes ❑No If yes, How Often per Month: ❑1-3 ❑4-7 ❑8+ What Would You Like To See On 50plusny.com: _____________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ Is 50+ LifeStyles an important source of information for you? ❑Yes ❑No How often do you read 50+ LifeStyles? ❑Always ❑Occasionally How long have you been reading 50+ LifeStyles? ❑New Reader ❑less than a year ❑1 to 5 years ❑6 or more years? Do you read the print or online edition? ❑Print ❑Online ❑Both Where do you get your copy of 50+ LifeStyles? _____________ __________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________ Do you know of a good location(s) for 50+ LifeStyles to be distributed? ______________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ How Long Do You Keep Your Copy of 50+ LifeStyles Around? ❑One Week ❑One Month ❑More than a month How Often Do You Refer Back To It? ❑1-4 ❑5-8 ❑8+

015 Survey

your opinion to fine tune 50+ LifeStyles. gift certificates for 3rd prize. Return your survey ld in strict confidence and used for statistical purposes sh to provide it, leave it blank, and return the survey so , NY 11713. How much of each 50+ LifeStyles do you read? ❑All of it ❑Most of it ❑Some of it Including You, How Many People Read Your Copy?_________________ Rate the Following Columns in 50+ LifeStyles from 1 to 10 (1 Worst to 10 Best): ❑Veterans News ❑Age of Elegance ❑Tech Talk ❑Calendar ❑Around the Town ❑Crossword/Sudoku What Do You Like Best About 50+ LifeStyles:___________________ ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________ What Do You Like Least About 50+ LifeStyles:__________________ ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________ What Would You Like To See in 50+ LifeStyles:_________________ ______________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________ Do you read the Ads in 50+ LifeStyles? ❑Yes ❑No Do the Ads in 50+ influence you? ❑Yes ❑No In the last 12 month have you…. (check all that apply) ❑Purchased from an Advertiser in 50+ LifeStyles? ❑Called for Information from an Advertiser in 50+ LifeStyles? ❑Called for Information from an Article in 50+ LifeStyles? ❑Recommended an Advertiser in 50+ LifeStyles? In the Next 12 Months Will You Use Any of the Following Products/Services?(Check all that apply) Lawyer ❑Yes ❑No Realtor ❑Yes ❑No Financial Planner ❑Yes ❑No Accountant ❑Yes ❑No Long Term Care Ins. ❑Yes ❑No Home Remodeler ❑Yes ❑No Home Care ❑Yes ❑No Primary Care Doctor ❑Yes ❑No Stair Lift ❑Yes ❑No Eye Glasses ❑Yes ❑No Mobility Scooter ❑Yes ❑No Medic Alert ❑Yes ❑No Do you use any of the following specialized doctors? (check all that apply): ❑Cardiologist ❑Orthopedist ❑Wound Care ❑Urologist ❑Endocrinologist ❑Allergy ❑Dentist ❑Podiatrist ❑Dermatologist ❑Gastroenterologist ❑Neurologist ❑Oncologist ❑Optometrist ❑Cosmetic ❑Pain Management ❑Rheumatologist ❑Other _____________________________________________________ Do you suffer from any of the following? ❑Arthritis ❑Knee Pain ❑Foot Pain ❑Joint Pain ❑Shoulder Pain ❑Other______________________________

❑Back Pain

Win

$100 Fill Out and Mail Today!

Do you go to casinos? ❑Yes ❑No If yes (Check all that apply): ❑Mohegan Sun ❑Foxwoods ❑Atlantic City ❑Las Vegas ❑Other _____________________________ Will You Purchase or Lease a Vehicle in the Next 12 Months? ❑Yes ❑No What brand?____________________________________ In the Next 12 Months Will You Buy (Check All that Apply): ❑Toys ❑Craft Supplies ❑Books ❑Prescription Drugs ❑Pet Supplies ❑Home Cleaning Service ❑Lasik Surgery ❑Use Coupons or Senior Discounts ❑Dental Implants ❑Boat ❑Computer ❑Ipad/Tablet ❑Smartphone ❑Major Appliances ❑Television ❑Pet Insurance Do you have a pet? If yes, ❑Dog ❑Cat

❑Yes ❑No ❑Other________________

Check What Activities Do You Enjoy: ❑Dining Out ❑Live Theater ❑Concerts ❑Golf ❑Bowling ❑Fishing ❑Casinos ❑Long Island Wineries ❑Reading ❑Movies ❑Gardening ❑Dancing ❑Camping ❑Church Activities ❑Volunteering ❑Other_________________________________________________________ Is there anything else you would like to tell us? ___________________ __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

W W W . 5 0 P L U S N Y . C O M

Medicare Open Enrollment Info Sessions & Contacts Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano announced today that the Nassau County Department of Human Services, Office for the Aging is collaborating with CMS (Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services) to provide consumer information forums on Medicare health and prescription drug plan options for older residents. These sessions are designed to provide information, answer questions, and empower Medicare beneficiaries to make well-informed decisions with regard to their personal health and prescription drug coverage needs. The open enrollment period for Medicare begins on October 15, 2015 and will continue through December 7, 2015. During this period, currently enrolled beneficiaries can make changes to their Medicare health plan and/or Part D coverage and/or enroll in a different plan that will best suit their personal situations. Representatives from CMS and the Nassau County-funded Health Insurance Information and Assistance Program (HIICAP), operated by Family and Children’s Association, will be available at the following convenient and accessible locations to explain how to compare the different available plans and what factors to

consider prior to enrolling in a new plan: October 6, 10 a.m. to noon Herricks Senior Community Service Center (south side rear door), 999 Herricks Road, New Hyde Park; 516-305-8976 October 21, 12:45 to 2:30 p.m. Glen Cove Senior Community Service Center, 130 Glen Street, Glen Cove; 516759-9610 October 23, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Bethpage Senior Community Center, 103 Grumman Road West, Bethpage; 516571-9910 October 28, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Freeport Senior Community Service Center, 66 Church Street, Freeport; 516623-2008 In addition, representatives from the Nassau County Department of Human Services, Office for the Aging and Office of Mental Health; the Nassau Countyfunded Senior Counseling Program operated by Family and Children’s Association; the Nassau County funded Senior Case Management Program operated by Catholic Charities and Family and Children’s Association; the Health and

Welfare Council of Long Island; and the Residential Energy Affordability Partnership (REAP), will be available to discuss the benefits of their programs. EPIC information will be available at all locations. However, an EPIC representative will be at the Glen Cove location only. As an added convenience, Flu shots will be available at all locations, and require no out of pocket cost. Lunch is available at all locations with the exception of Bethpage. Please call the site directly for more information and to make a reservation. Persons interested in attending one of the above informational sessions can call the site directly or 516-227-8915 for direction and information. In Suffolk County RSVP has a new program funded by Suffolk County Office For the Aging – Health Insurance Information Counseling Assistance Program (HIICAP). If you have questions about Medicare, call the RSVP Information Line at 631-979-9490 x18. A counselor will return your call. The HIICAP Program has been established to assist seniors through the maze of health insurance paperwork. The HIICAP hotline can be reached by calling at 631-853-6651.

50+ LifeStyles October 2015

For the first time, family caregivers have access to a series of guidebooks that provide intentional and practical activities to help them engage their senior loved ones and improve the quality of life for everyone involved. The Activities for the Family Caregiver series of guides is the only series of books specific to chronic issues such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's/dementia, ALS, stroke, and many more. Twelve books, published by R.O.S. Therapy Systems, are available now on Amazon and other major booksellers, with another seven books being released by the end of the year. They are currently available as eBooks; paperbacks will be available by July. Co-written with a team of industry experts including leading dementia care practitioners, certified activity consultants, occupational therapists, registered nurses, nursing home administrators and college instructors, the Activities for the Family Caregiver guidebooks are based on the training and certification information taught to professionals in the long-term care industry.

Each book in the series offers advice on how to help senior loved ones effectively engage in activities, which, according to the authors, offer profound benefits such as minimized behavioral issues, improved sleep habits, decreased depression and anxiety, improved self-esteem, mental and social stimulation,

and reduced caregiver stress. The Activities for the Family Caregiver series includes How to Engage books that contain ideas and strategies for daily activities, How to Engage, How to Live books that provide strategies for important daily needs such as feeding and bathing, as well as Activities 101 books that pertain to leisure activities. Books currently available address visual and cognitive impairments, dementia, Parkinson’s, strokes,frontal temporal dementia, traumatic

brain injury, vascular dementia, Huntington’s disease and more. Upcoming books in the series will address ALS, visual impairments, Lewy body dementia, and others. The latter books are expected out later in 2015. “My father sat and stared out of a window; we had no idea how to engage him, how to give him some joy,” said Scott Silknitter, coauthor of the book series and president of R.O.S. Therapy Systems, a company he founded after the lessons learned when he tried to help his father, who had Parkinson’s, and mother, who was the at-home caregiver. “The Activities for the Family Caregiver books were written in order to provide caregivers practical ways to engage their senior loved ones while also improving the quality of life for everyone involved.” For more information or to purchase the Activities for the Family Caregiver books, please visit: R.O.S. Therapy Systems at www.rostherapysystems.com or Amazon at amzn.to/1FROB6N.

W W W . 5 0 P L U S N Y . C O M

50+ LifeStyles October 2015

Caregiver Guides

First-Of-Its-Kind Series Offers Condition-Specific Info

OCTOBER CALENDAR October 3

Meadow; noon-5 p.m.; 516Apple Festival. Carousel, crafts, apple-themed cooking contest, 572-0200; www.nassaucounmusic, pony rides and demonstrations. : Islip Grange 10 Broad- tyny.gov. way Avenue, Sayville; 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Rain date: Sun., Oct. October 11 4. Free. All Beethoven Program. FeaTraveling Exhibit-Once Upon A Time... Exploring the turing Terry Cook, bass-bariWorld of Fairy Tales. From an African jungle to a giant’s cas- tone and Sirena Huang , violin. tle, visitors will step into larger-than-life pages of seven favorite At the Tilles Center for the Perfairy tales. At the Long Island Children's Museum, 11 Davis Av- forming Arts at LIU Post Camenue, Garden City, 516-224-5800. Free with museum admission; pus, 720 Northern Boulevard, Brookville; 516-299-3100; www.tillescenter.org. Fee. www.licm.org.

October 9-11 Long Island Fall Festival. Fair hosted by the Huntington Township Chamber of Commerce and Town of Huntington. Entertainment at Heckscher Park, Huntington. Times, info: 631-423-6100; www.huntingtonchamber.com.

October 10-11 W W W . 5 0 P L U S N Y . C O M

Westhampton Beach Fall Arts and Craft Show. Something for everyone. Westhampton Beach Village Green Gazebo, Westhampton Beach; 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; 631-288-3337; www.westhamptonbeach.org.

October 10-12

October 14 Indian Island Saunter. Three miles – easy – flat – Info: Karen, 631-929-6590, before 8 p.m. Walk a beautiful county park at the mouth of the Peconic River; rain cancels; look for park entrance signs on C.R. 105 on north side of river; 1:30 p.m.; 631-360-0753; www.ligreenbelt.org.

October 17 Fall Family Fishing Festival. Come enjoy a day filled with freshwater fishing and outdoor education; 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. At Hempstead Lake State Park, Southern State Parkway, Exit 18, West Hempstead; 516-766-1029; www.nysparks.state.ny.us/ parks/. Parking fee.

Oktoberfest. Come enjoy live entertainment, traditional German food, beer and much more. At Eisenhower Park, Merrick Av- October 21 enue and Park Boulevard Eisenhower Park Field 6/6A, East How to Protect Yourself from Crime. By New York City Police Academy teacher Richard Errico. At the Valley Stream Historical Society, 143 Hendrickson Avenue, Valley Stream; 7 p.m. Info: 516-872-4159; www.vsvny.org. Free.

October 23 Halloween Boat Burning. raffles, snacks, hot apple cider, and some of the best musical entertainment to be found anywhere. All of this comes free of charge for your enjoyment. At the Long Island Maritime Museum on West Avenue in West Sayville. Info: 631-HISTORY; www.limaritime.org. Rain date: October 25.

October 24 Trick or Treat: Shadow Puppet Making. Acclaimed French puppetry artists Caroline Borderies and Christian Barthod will present a hands-on workshop before their performance of Two Tales of Tricksters. At the Charles B. Wang Center Chapel, Stony Brook; 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Admission: General (Students, Seniors ages 65+): $5; Kids 12 and under: Free. Info: 631 632-4400.

October 25 50+ LifeStyles

Harvest Fest in Port Jefferson. Scare Crow Walk, live music throughout the village, children's activities, Chowder Crawl (fee), Dog Costumed Parade at 2 p.m. and much more; noon to 5 p.m. At 118 West Broadway, Port Jefferson. Info: 631-4731414; www.portjeffchamber.com. Free.

October 31-November 1

October 2015

The 1880 Haunted Halloween Festivities. Come join the Old Bethpage Village Restoration for an 1880 Haunted Halloween;10 a.m. At the Old Bethpage Village Restoration, 1303 Round Swamp Road, Old Bethpage. Info: 516-572-8400.

Age of Elegance By Ethel Bennett

Seeking Contestants for 2016 Pageant

Our state of New York will be represented by C.J. Marie, our reigning Queen. She will be competing for the title of Ms. Senior America. Our annual holiday party will be celebrated on December 11, 2015, at the Southward Ho Country Club in Bay Shore. Tickets are still available. Call Enid Merin 516-495-4931. Until next month: Ethel COUPON Women Must Be 60 Years or Over I would like to compete in the 2016 Ms. New York Senior America Pageant.

Address Telephone E-mail Address Return to: Marleen Schuss, State Director 80 Banks Avenue - Apt. 2113, Rockville Centre, NY 11570 Or e-mail: marleenschuss@aol.com Phone: 516-678-3242

W W W . 5 0 P L U S N Y . C O M

October 2015

Name

50+ LifeStyles

The summer is over and now the ladies of MS. Senior America start a new and busy season. Auditions have begun, and we are welcoming new contestants to participate in the 32nd annual New York State Pageant to be held at Hofstra University, Sunday, April 3, 2016. Women over 60 with a talent, elegance, and a zest for life are all brought together to compete for the crown and title of Ms. Senior New York State. At this time, special abilities and talents are displayed, honored and recognized on stage. Does this sound like something in which you or someone you know might be interested? Do not hesitate. Fill in the application below, or call Marleen Schuss at 516-678-3242. Once you become a contestant, you will enjoy the opportunity to perform in our many showcases, produced by Marleen the New York State Director. Future bookings include: veteran’s homes, assisted living facilities, rehabilitation hospitals, nursing homes, schools, libraries, etc. Some of our venues will be: the Northport V.A. on September 20; Lynbrook - Atria on September 29; Flushing A ARP on October 13; Port Jefferson - Jefferson Ferry on November 30; Melville - Men’s Club at the Greens on December 13; and Glen Cove – the Women’s Club on April 16. The National Pageant will take place in Atlantic City at Resorts Hotel, the week of October 20.

Tech Talk with

Where All Your Technology Questions Are Answered By Nick Radesca QUESTION: What’s all the fuss about keep the battery charged, I think makes pole can cause serious damage should it selfie sticks? I think they look silly.

W W W . 5 0 P L U S N Y . C O M

ANSWER: My photo albums have very few pictures of me. Why? Because I’m the family’s self-appointed photographer. While I enjoyed creating a picture history of my life, it disappoints me that I’m essentially absent, so when I saw someone using a selfie stick to take pictures with friends, I didn’t think it was silly – I bought one. Selfie sticks are primarily used with smartphones, which have two cameras – a rear-facing camera for regular photos and a front-facing camera for video phone calls and self-portraits. Selfie sticks work by mounting a smartphone in the clamp at one end of a telescoping pole with the front-facing camera selected and pressing a button at the other end to take pictures. From what I gather there are two basic types of selfie sticks – wired and wireless. The wired type has a coiled wire that is plugged into the smartphone’s headset jack. The wireless type comes with a rechargeable battery that operates via a paired Bluetooth connection. Having to

the wireless type less desirable. While it hit someone or something, a growing takes getting used to, anyone can get the number of places have banned selfie sticks including many museums around the world plus several amusement parks such as Disney World and Six Flags. You therefore should check the rules when going somewhere but more importantly, always use a selfie stick carefully. There are many selfie sticks on the market – some as cheap as $5. If you’re thinking about buying one and not sure you’d use it much, buy a low-priced one and keep it close by. Nick Radescu is a volunteer at SeniorNet (631-470-6757; www.seniornetli.org). He can be reached at nick2p@yahoo.com.

hang of a selfie stick. When I took my new selfie stick to a family gathering, it became a sensation, with everyone wanting to use it over and over again. Selfie sticks have become an essential travel companion for many people. However, because a swinging four-foot long

50+ LifeStyles October 2015

FUNERAL DIRECTORY

W W W . 5 0 P L U S N Y . C O M

Elmont Funeral Home, Inc. James M. Soviero, Director

Services Available in All Communities Personal Service At Any Hour-Everyday Dedicated Professional Staff & Excellent Facilities Pre-Arrangement & Pre-Financed • Arrangement Counseling SSI-Medicaid Approved Pre-Arrangement • Account (FDIC Insured)

516-437-2100 • 1-800-564-9419 www.elmontfuneralhome.com

FAMILY FUNERAL HOMES

Holbrook Central Islip Pt. Jefferson Sta.

Aftercare Military Honors Catering Services Children’s Room On-line Obituaries On-line Condolences

(631) 588-1515

www.moloneyfh.com

FOR AD RATES CALL 631-286-0058, EXT. 113

50+ LifeStyles

Lake Ronkonkoma Bohemi Hauppauge

• • • • • •

October 2015

1529 Hempstead Tpke., Elmont, NY 11003

Deal Me In

by Mark Pilarski

Video Blackjack Paybacks Are Based on Skill and Rules Dear Mark: I like playing blackjack on the video machines at the casino because I can take my time. However, I don’t like losing all the time. Are my odds better at the table? Are the blackjack video machines just a random number generator programmed for say 90% payback or can they alter payout based on how the customer plays? Raylon R.

W W W . 5 0 P L U S N Y . C O M

All video blackjack machines use a random number generator (RNG) software algorithm to determine the game’s outcome. The RNG gives you a random shuffle, whereas your payback percentage is based on your overall play combined with the built-in BJ rules of that particular machine. Video blackjack is typically a one-deck game, and the deck is "shuffled" after each hand rather than playing to a virtual cut card, finishing the hand, and then reshuffling.

The advantage of a video blackjack machine versus a live table game is the low minimum bankroll requirement needed to play. Plenty of 25¢ video blackjack games exist on the casino floor, some that even pay the full amount for a blackjack. What could be affecting your “losing all the time,” Raylon, are video blackjack machines that do

Gambling Wisdom of the Week: "Blackjack--what a game! How simple it looks, yet how complex it truly is. – Victor H. Royer NOT pay you the true value of a blackjack (3 for 2). Most machines pay even money on natural 21s. Because you can expect a blackjack every 21 hands in live play, the loss of that bonus will cost you an additional 2.3 percent. Considering that a live blackjack game has a house advantage of less than .5 percent to the knowledgeable player, this one rule change alone is quite costly.

L A

PROF. SERVICES

SWJF Seeking SWJM, 70-80 Nonsmoker to have fun with. (631) 6811565

Senior Woman wishes to work for other senior. Lite houskeeping, make meals, do wash, companionship. (516) 781-6394

50+ LifeStyles

IRISHMAN, 40, 6’. 185lbs., childless, animal & beach lover seeks female bicycler, 35-65, Obama voter, tolerant, organized, no vices, very compassionate for LTR. (631) 379-6383 Healthy SWM 70, seeks nonsmoking SWF for Friendship, companionship, love. Likes dining out, movies, etc. Call (516) 853-1241

ments. Here are a few final tips, Raylon, which should turn your losing ways around. Besides lacking the intimidation factor of a live game, video blackjack makes for an excellent practice session partner where you can work on basic strategy. Basic strategy is nothing more than how you play your hand against the dealer "up card." Playing your

PERSONALS

73, Widow, seeks unique, white widower, any age, any condition for true friendship. (516) 352-9025

hand correctly, and on a machine that full pays for a blackjack, you can bring the house advantage down to well under one percent. It is important to read and know all of the rules along with complementing playing strategies. For instance, I have seen a video blackjack game that stays on all 17s, which, by the way, decreases the house advantage by .22%. This same machine allows you to double after the split, split up to three hands, and even allows you to surrender (usually on single deck game) half the bet after your first two cards. These are better playing conditions than most table blackjack games I have seen offered lately. Finally, for the advanced player, most video blackjack machines operate using just one deck and shuffle after every round. If you happen upon one with multiple decks that shuffles when 50 percent of the cards have been used, it is possible to count cards.

Also, some video blackjack machines round down on blackjack payoffs. If you do happen to find a machine that pays the bonus for a blackjack, make wagers in even amounts so you can get the maximum value of a blackjack (a payoff of $3 for every $2 wagered). Otherwise a dollar wagered will get you just a buck for your snapper. Always bet in two-unit incre-

CLEAN HOMES BY STACEY Get ready for the holidays now! Weekly, bi-weekly-monthly, one time only, move-ins/outs. Low reasonable rates. East Moriches, Center Moriches, Shirley, Yaphank and Bellport. 631-902-3787 EMPLOYMENT Heartland Golf Park Shift Manager: Some Experience, Nights & Weekends a must. $10./Hr. FT. No Benefits. Immediate. Retirees Welcome. ebarone@hrtld.com

October 2015

Classifieds need to be submitted by the 15th.

CLASSIFIED FORM

ADVERTISE YOUR PRODUCTS OR SERVICES $60 Businesses • $35 Individuals (Non-business related) 15 words - $1 each additional word All ads must be pre-paid. Rates are per month. For more information call (631) 286-0058 Ext. 220. PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY OR TYPE ON A SEPARATE SHEET OF PAPER

Name: Address: City: State:

Section: ❑ Real Estate ❑ For Rent ❑ Wanted

Zip:

❑ For Sale ❑ Prof. Serv ❑ Other

Phone:

Edition: ❑ Queens/NYC only ❑ LI only

Word Count:

❑ All Editions (double above rates) Number of Months you Wish to Run Ad

Payment: $ ❑ Check ❑ Visa

❑ MasterCard

❑ American Express

Account #:

Exp. Date:

Name on Credit Card:

VCode:

Mail with check or money order to:

50+ LifeStyles Attn: Classified Department, Barbara Connolly 146 South Country Road • Bellport, NY 11713 Or, fax with charge card # to (631) 286-6866 Or, E-Mail with charge card # to Barbara@50plusny.com -NO PHONE ORDERS TAKEN-

E N T E R T A I N M E N T

LIFESTYLES CROSSWORD 2

113

16 17 21

29 32

DOWN 1. Rotating part 2. Blackbird 3. Proscribe 4. Berates 5. Genetic acids, briefly 6. School’s Web address suffix 7. Strict disciplinarian 8. In the same place (Lat.) 9. Gentlewoman 10. Stead

35 37

11. Rebuff a masher 13. Cole Porter’s “Miss - Regrets” 19. Eye part 20. Showbiz job 21. Wander 22. Opposed to 23. Repairs 25. Charlie McCarthy’s pal Snerd 26. Secondhand 27. Note to the staff 29. Say “bow-wow” 31. Donkey

33. Extreme disgust 34. “Yippee!” 36. Ukraine capital 37. Iodine-rich seaweed 38. MPs’ quarry 39. Part of N.B. 40. From the beginning 43. U.N. work agcy. 44. Chowed down on 45. Parcel of land 46. - Lanka Solution on page 6

October 2015

Solution on page 6

50+ LifeStyles

ACROSS 1. Urban fleet 5. Sleep phenom, for short 8. Afflictions 12. Huge snake 14. $50 “Monopoly” payment 15. Labyrinth critter 16. Notion 17. Fleur-de- 18. Straighten things 20. Alumni 23. Conflagration 24. Charged particles 25. Least 28. Roscoe 29. Cartons 30. Vast expanse 32. Mosque tower 34. Mends cuffs 35. - and crafts 36. Praise 37. No alternative? 40. The stuff we breathe 41. Lambs’ dams 42. Ores 47. Unescorted 48. Lift 49. Entreaty 50. Tier 51. Bigfoot’s Asian cousin

A New Season of Broadway-quality Shows to Start at The Gateway

W W W . 5 0 P L U S N Y . C O M

Tickets are now on sale for the 66th blockbuster season of Broadway-quality entertainment at The Gateway. Based in Bellport, NY, along Long Island’s southern shore, this musical theatre powerhouse is proudly presenting its upcoming winter season starting in mid-November. The season’s lineup starts with a special event: Legends in Concert - with tributes to The Blues Brothers, Jimmy Buffett, Cher, Aretha Franklin, Dolly Parton and Justin Timberlake. The month of December kicks off with Mooseltoe and tap dancing sensation Two On Tap: Happy Holidays! at The Gateway. The fun then moves to Patchogue Theatre with Rodger’s and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, based off the recent Broadway revival and welcomes in 2016 with The Rat Pack is Back with special guest Marilyn Monroe. In addition to its Broadway-quality shows, The Gateway is giving Long Island their fill of scares with Gateway’s Haunted Playhouse nightly through Halloween. The

Bellport landmark is converted into a thrilling haunted adventure that has been voted one of Long Island’s best. Call 631-286-1133 or visit www.GatewayPlayhouse.org for a full show schedule, ticket prices and more.   The Gateway strives to enrich a wide range of communities with quality theatrical experiences through diverse arts, entertainment and educational programs. It endeavors to serve these communities in a fiscally responsible manner, to provide affordable resources to schools and non-profit organizations, and to ensure the future of the theatrical arts in the Long Island region.    The Gateway’s 2015 season is sponsored by AARP New York (states.aarp.org/category/new-york/). Funding provided, in part,

by the County of Suffolk (www.suffolkcountyny.gov/); and is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts (nysca.org/) with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature.

50+ LifeStyles October 2015

Care Solutions, LLC has been selected as the first NEMT manager contracted for Nassau and Suffolk Counties, and will be available to eligible Medicaid enrollees once the program is initiated. The Long Island ser vice for emergency and non-emergency transportation will take effect December 1, 2015 for Medicaid recipients that meet certain eligibility requirements to receive the ser vice, which typically comes at no cost. “This is a great step for Medicaid enrollees and applicants alike, as well as the healthcare industry,” says Mr. Mertz. “The cost-effectiveness of the nonemergency transportation program has the potential to translate directly into reduced healthcare costs as well as to contribute to longer life expectancy and improved quality of life for Medicaid enrollees and applicants.” For more information, call 516-541-4770 or visit www.pp medicaid.com.

October 2015

Nearly four million Americans miss or delay non-emergency medical care because they do not have money available for transportation that would bring them to and from appointments. That will soon change for Long Island residents, according to Paul Mertz, Chief Operating Executive of P&P Medicaid Consulting, Inc., who says the Medicaid Redesign Transport Initiative will provide transportation services to hundreds of people in the region. Medicaid Redesign Transport Initiative #29 is a program which will phase in a Medicaid fee-forservice, non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) management program, under which transportation ser vices are carved out of the Medicaid management care benefit package. Through this fee-for-ser vice model, the regional Medicaid agency contracts with local and regional state-run Medicaid agencies will handle the eligibility and authorization and arrangements of all trips. Logisti-

50+ LifeStyles

P&P Medicaid Consulting, Inc. Medicaid Transportation Services

W W W . 5 0 P L U S N Y . C O M