And We Just Keep on Winning!
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50+ Scores at LI Press Club and NAMPA Awards
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oy are we good! We know it’s not nice to brag, but if we don’t … The National Association of Mature Publishers awarded 50+ LifeStyles with four awards: two firsts and two seconds for our 2015 work. We nabbed firsts for our Fall Resource Guide and for the article, “A Guide for the First Time Grandparent.” Then we grabbed seconds for feature writing, A Reluctant Traveler’s Dream Vacation and front cover photo of our April 2015 edition. Not too shabby, eh? Then it was time for the Long Island Press Club to weigh in and “The Reluctant Traveler Visits the Grand Canyon” won a first for front page layout, while the September 2015 “Back to School” won a second in the same category. Not to be outdone, our sister publication, Fire News scored a third for best newspaper photograph, a third for best front page layout and a first place in social media for the Best Use of Facebook. To be modest — for a change — all of these awards were earned by the diligent work of all of the staff from our Publisher Frank C. Trotta on down through our art and editorial departments and stressed-out sales staff. It’s a well-greased machine that meshes together and produces such fine results. 50+ So … Kudos to us!!! If we do say so ourselves.
Publisher Frank C. Trotta and Senior Account Executive Barbara Connolly at the 2016 LI Press Club Awards
Find Hidin’ Harry!
Light Reading
Harry is hiding somewhere in this issue. Find him and tell us where he is and you can win a pair of theater tickets. We’ll pick two winners out of every issue. Find Hidin’ Harry and send your answer to: Hidin’ Harry, 146 So. Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 or e-mail Editor@50plusny.com.
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am not a fan of poetry beyond Rudyard Kipling’s (“When you’re wounded and left on Afghanistan’s plains…”). That said a rhythmic book has come across my desk that is actually fun to read. Titled The First Little Bastard to Call Me Gramps; Poems of the Late Middle Ages, is a humorous — and poetic — look at growing older, from both a male and female perspective. Written by Bill Richardson, it’s due out September 13, 2016. Some of the rhyme schemes are a little awkward, but that adds some intellectual challenge to this fun and oft quite surprising, occasionally comically bawdy read. From House of Anansi; www.houseofanansi.com or from Amazon. It will also be offered as an e-book. Around $13. 50+ 50+ LifeStyles July 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com
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SUPER SUMMER GIVEAWAY
WIN Tickets!
ENTER TODAY!
Send us no more than 25 words on why you think Summer on Long Island is the Best! We’ll pick 10 of your submissions and those chosen will be published in 50+ LifeStyles — and you’ll get a pair of tickets to one of Long Island’s favorite theaters: The Gateway Playhouse, Theatre Three or The Broadhollow Theatre. Send your entry to: Summer, 146 So. Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713; or e-mail it to: editor@50plusny.com. 50+
Hidin’ Harry Winners! From the June issue are, Barbara and Joe Casetta of Smithtown and June Pollack of Floral Park. You’ll both be receiving a pair of theater tickets in the mail.As for the rest of our contestants, the game goes on! Find Hidin’ Harry somewhere in the pages of 50+ LifeStyles and send us your answer — including your name and address — by post to Hidin’ Harry, 146 So. Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713, or e-mail editor@50plusny.com.
www.50plusNY.com PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Frank C. Trotta ext. 100 EXECUTIVE EDITOR Tim Edwards ext. 111 VICE PRESIDENT SALES & PRODUCTION Marie S. Trotta ext. 113 EDITOR Gary P. Joyce ext. 250 ART DIRECTOR Gregory A Jones ext. 232 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 Advertising Rate Card By Request COPY DEADLINE 15th of previous month ©50+ Lifestyles™
Winner of 5 National Awards
LifeStyles Sudoku Solution from page 25
LifeStyles Puzzle Solution from page 25
50+ LIFESTYLES AVAILABLE AT MOST and most Libraries in Nassau/Suffolk. 50+ LifeStyles July 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com
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July
July 5 Brown Bag Lunch Concert Series. (Through August 30). At the Bay Shore Band Shell, 2nd Avenue and Main Street; 12:30 p.m. Free. Info: 631-224-5420.
July 13 Haiku: Being in the Moment, Flowing with the Seasons. At the Sachem Public Library, 150 Holbrook Road, Holbrook; 2 p.m. Free. For more information, or to register, call 631-588-5024.
July 14-17 Hamptons Greek Festival. Free $5 food credit. Free Admission. Hamptongreekfestival.com. 631283-6169. See ad page 21.
July 13 Nassau Parks and Recreation: Italian American
What to Do, Where to Go, What to See, on Long Island and the Surrounding Area (Send event info to Frank@50plusny.com) Music program befor Robert Davi. 6:30 Eisenhower Park, East Meadow.
East Meadow; 7 to 9 p.m. Reservations are required – call Jean at 516-739-7733; ext. 1150.
July 19
July 23-24
Free lively Elderlaw discussion and dinner with David Okrent. Esq. Call for reservation. 631-4274600. 6 p.m. See ad page 12.
July 21 The Long Island Dahlia Society will hold a Dahlias Basics class, East Islip Public Library. Refreshments will be served and admission is free. LongIslandDahlia.org or call Joe at 516-578-7699.
July 21 Epilepsy Workshop. A Registered Dietician for Northwell Health, will chair a workshop that will provide expert guidance on how diets can work to help control seizure activity. EPIC Long Island,
New s Golfer e m Welco
Harbes Annual Sweet Corn Festival. At Harbes Family Farm & Vineyard, Mattituck; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 631-298-0700; www.harbesfamilyfarm.com.
July 24 Nassau Parks and Recreation: Elvis/Beatles Tribute. 8:00 p.m., Eisenhower Park, East Meadow.
July 31 Nassau Parks and Recreation: Beach Boys Tribute Wantagh Park, Wantagh. 6-7 p.m.
Looking Ahead: 50+ Lifestyles Golf Outing. Timber Point Coun50+ try Club. Sept 22. See ad below.
A Day of Fun & Golf! Join our Golf Outing! Men & Women Age 50+ Welcome
Timber Point Country Club Thursday, Sept. 22, 2016 (Rain Date Thurs., Oct. 27, 2016)
SPECIAL:
EXTENDED TO 7/29
Sign Up Your Group of 4 Players and You’ll Each Pay $139 (Individual Golfers $149)
Golf es Leagu s! Join U
2 NEW CATAGORIES ADDED Play with your son/daughter or grandchild. Call for details.
Tournament Package Includes: ★ Dinner & Open Bar ★ Cont. Breakfast ★ BBQ Lunch ★ Prizes for Low Gross ★ Raffles & Awards ★ Prizes ★ Greens Fees & Cart SPONSORED BY
Call (631) 286-0058 ext. 112 or email Frank@50plusNY.com 50+ LifeStyles July 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com
Nassau Pops Schedule July 1 - Southampton Southampton Fresh Air Home American Picnic with Fireworks by Grucci, Shinnecock Bay
July 1 - Brooklyn Fort Hamilton Independence Celebration, Fort Hamilton
July 2 -Orient Orient Independence Celebration, Orient Harbor
July 2 - Sag Harbor Sag Harbor Independence Celebration
July 4 - Montauk Montauk's Independence Day, Umbrella Beach
July 4 - New Rochelle
Louis Panacciulli and The Nassau Pops Symphony orchestra will perform several free concerts of the best in popular and light classical music at different venues in July. All venues are handicapped accessible and will require you to bring your own seating. More information can be had at 516-565-0646. The July schedule is:
July 8 Memorial Bandshell, Marcellus Road in Mineola (rain location): Mineola Middle School, Garfield Avenue, Mineola; 8 p.m.
Spark the Sound Fireworks - New Rochelle, Five Island Park
July 9 - Shelter Island 59th Annual Shelter Island Fireworks, Crescent Beach
July 11 - East Islip
July 10 Heckscher Park, Route 25A, Huntington; 8:30 p.m.
Islip Arts Council - Annual Concert - Honor our Hometown Heroes Heckscher State Park
July 13
July 12 - Massapequa
Valley Stream Green Band Shell, Verona Place north of the Valley Stream LIRR; 8 p.m.
Oyster Bay's Salute to America, John J. Burns Park
50+ LifeStyles July 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com
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Around The Towns... Send your news items to Frank@50plusny.com
Senator Ken LaValle announced that Donna Christina Oliverio of Southampton was selected as the 2016 NY State Senate’s Woman of Distinction from the First Senate District. Legislator Tom Muratore (right) poses with Brookhaven Town Councilman Kevin LaValle, and Dennis Sullivan, Quartermaster of VFW Post 4927 and NYS Commander at the Memorial Day Parade in Centereach. The Long Island Authors’ Circle has announced that Smithtown resident, Werner Reich, has been received into
the organization as a member in good standing. His induction brings the select group’s total membership to eight. Mayor Allan M. Dorman (left), Village of Islandia, is joined by John Kennedy (center), Suffolk County Comptroller, and Sal Scarlato (right), President, Korean War Veterans Association, Central Long Island Chapter, at the village’s Memorial Day ceremony on May 28.
Nassau County Legislator Dennis Dunne, Sr., presented a Legislative Citation to Nassau County Police Medic Steve Doucette recognizing him as a “Top Cop.” Legislator Kate Browning (WF-Shirley) was proud to attend a citizenship recognition event at the Mastics-Moriches-Shirley Community Library on June 5, 2016. Twelve local residents obtained U.S. citizenship over the past year, after completing the library’s citizenship preparation program.
Nassau County Legislators Ellen W. Birnbaum, Steven Markowitz, Chairman of the Holocaust Memorial & Tolerance Center and Tracy Garrison-Feinberg, Director of the Claire Friedlander Education Institute during a recent visit to the center.
Me & My Shadow
(Ma) Linda Milazzo of East Yaphank and her granddaughter Lillian and grandson Jack, who are helping her make her battle with chemo and pancreatic cancer a lot easier. 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.
50+ LifeStyles July 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com
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GRANDPARENTS &
Grandkids
Staying Safe This Summer By Gary P. Joyce
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t’s amazing that we’ve lived to have grandchildren. Remember drinking water out of a garden hose? Playing on high-off-the-ground metal contraptions embedded in unforgiving concrete? How about riding up in the window ledge in the backseat of the car? Not to mention riding scooters made of wood, nails, orange crates and an old metal skate with — heart be still — no helmet! Yup …it’s a wonder we lived through childhood. Today you need a course in structural engineering to get a kid’s carseat from one car to another, playgrounds are covered in foam padding, kids have to wear helmets to just about get out of bed, and — heaven forbid! — they drink water that hasn’t been filtered so thoroughly they’re practically drinking air. That said, it’s that most dangerous time of year: summer. If the duty of watching the grandchildren falls upon you, here are some things you really need to consider. 1) It’s time for water activities —away from game consoles and computer screens. Regardless of body of
50+ LifeStyles July 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com
water, take the time to point out inherent dangers, and make sure they understand what limits you’re imposing and that they must adhere to them. My nineyear-old grandson is quite comfortable around water … but I still don’t take my eyes off him when he’s in it. And that means another set of eyes better be on the granddaughters playing in the sand at the same time. 2) No matter the age something bad can happen faster than you can recall the kid’s name (that might not be so fast, these days, but you get the idea). Don’t take your eyes off them for a second and don’t expect to actually “do” anything except watch them when you’re supposed to be watching them. 3) When you were a kid you stayed in the water till your lips literally turned blue. Today’s kids will do the same. Know when to sit them out of the water, know when to feed them, know when to call it a day. If they complain, know that it means they’ll go to sleep early! 4) There’s absolutely no reason why any youngster should get a sunburn. Make them wear sunshirts, sunhats, sunscreen, etc. Make that trip early in the morn-
ing or later in the afternoon (10 a.m. to 2 p.m. are the peak times to be out of the sun). Stay in the shade as much as possible; Granddaughter Keira on the boat. reflection and re- In the shade, lubed and covered fraction will give you enough exposure. Lather on the sunscreen. SPF numbers are derived by using thick layers of the substance, according to the Environmental Working Group (ewg.org/sunscreen), which tests sunscreens annually. They also recommend sunscreens that are mineral-based (think zinc oxide or titanium dioxide), rather than chemical-based, because they produce lower skin allergies and reactions. The EWG also noted that no sunscreen can reliably protect for more than two hours. 50+ Have a safe and fun summer.
Veterans
News
Mangano Welcomes New Chapter 82 VVA Prez
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assau County Executive Edward P. Mangano and County Legislator Laura Schaefer joined with Veterans Service Agency Director Ralph Esposito and Oyster Bay Town Councilman Anthony Macagnone to welcome incoming Chapter 82 Vietnam Veterans of America Board Members and Incoming President Steve Bonom at their recent Installation Dinner. Mangano commended outgoing Board Members of VFW Post 3211 in Hicksville: Erle Mutz, Tony Sparaco, James W. Merritte and Greg Keramis. He also honored outgoing President, Joe Ingino, and thanked him for his years of service in advocating for and supporting the County’s veterans. Shown in photo left to right: Ralph Esposito, Director of Nassau County Veterans Service Agency; Steve Bonom, Incoming President of Chapter 82
Patchogue’s Murray: Veterans Bill (Finally) Signed Into Law
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statement from Assemblyman Dean Murray (R,C,I- East Patchogue): “After vetoing it twice, Gov. Cuomo finally did what is right for our veterans and signed the Veterans Pension Buyback into law. This legislation allows all of our veterans who work in the public sector to purchase up to three years of credit in the state pension system. “I’m happy that the governor has come around and done the right thing for our veterans. I cannot express the amount of gratitude I have for our veterans and this bill is the least we can do as a Legislature to help out those who served our country honorably. I’m proud to have co-sponsored this bill and look forward to keeping our veterans a priority.”
A Memorial Day Letter to the Editor, Thank you, Arby’s.
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rby’s Memorial Day free offer for all veterans was in great taste! In honor of Memorial Day, all veterans were able to enjoy a free combo meal at Arby’s Restaurants across Long Island. We salute Arbys for remembering our veterans on Memorial Day. My husband, Robert, a veteran, would especially like to thank the Linden50+ hurst Arby’s. — Susan and Robert Davniero
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How to Get Smart About the
Stock Market By Donald J. McCormick CFP®, CRPC®
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he stock market can have big implications on world events and your own finances, but many investors find it overly complex and cumbersome. Increasing your knowledge of the stock market can help you better understand its impacts, but how do you get started? Consider taking the following steps.
Enroll in a class Take advantage of free webinars, seminars or workshops on investing fundamentals. If you prefer learning in a classroom setting, look for basic courses on investing, how the stock market works or personal finance at a local college or university.
Watch investment programs Public radio and television stations often feature investment programs aimed at new and seasoned investors. Even your local news channels may include a market segment. Be wary of infomercials disguised as informational investment programs, though. Check out stock market apps There are hundreds of apps available today focused on helping consumers understand investing. Have financially-savvy friends? Ask what apps they use to keep up on the stock market. Before downloading, check the reviews and opt for those that have been vetted by trusted sources. Track your favorite companies To better understand the movement of individual stocks, pick several of your favorite publically traded companies to follow. Then, check their stock price, company newsroom and social media accounts each day. Tracking over time will help you understand how company announcements and actions may affect the stock price.
Work with a financial professional Follow the news Start following the business and financial sections of your favorite media outlet to get a healthy dose of investment know-how. You’ll begin to understand the types of activities that influence the marketplace — for example, oil prices or new housing starts — and gain an appreciation for what’s considered newsworthy. As you become more attuned to global markets, you’ll start to see the ripple effect of mergers and acquisitions, product innovations and even front-page news stories on Wall Street confidence.
50+ LifeStyles July 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com
A professional can help you understand your investment options, and help you make financial decisions that are best for your individual needs. Work with someone who is willing to explain investment concepts and provide educational materials. Tell your professional about your desire to learn more about the market. He or she will likely be willing to send you news articles, add you to a newsletter or give you a call to discuss market news 50+ that may interest you. Donald J. McCormick, CFP® and a Private Wealth Advisor with Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. in Bohemia, NY. Call 631-582-9770 ext:306, e-mail him at Donald.j.mccormick@ampf.com or go to his website Donaldjmccormick.com.
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The Elder Law Minute
TM
Will a Divorce Revoke My Will?
By Ronald A. Fatoullah, Esq. and Yan Lian Kuang-Maoga, Esq.
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ow does a divorce affect a will? The good news is that a divorce will revoke all revocable bequests to a former spouse and any of your appointments of your former spouse. However, you cannot rely on this automatic revocation alone. It is recommended that you review your estate plan at least once you have begun to contemplate one. While married, many of us have formal or informal estate plans involving our spouse. We may have a will which leaves our assets to our spouses and names them executor. We may have beneficiary, “in trust for,” or “transfer on death” designations on our accounts for the benefit of our spouse. We may also have named our spouse as an agent under a Health Care Proxy and Power of Attorney. The law is clear that a divorce (with final decree or judgment of divorce) will by itself revoke all those designations. This rule also applies with a final decree or judgment of annulment or separation. The law treats former spouses as if they predeceased you. If the divorced parties were to remarry each other, the remarriage would revive all the designations made once again. This automatic revocation by divorce helps those who may not have taken the steps to remove the former spouse from any designated interest in the estate. However, you should not rely on the revocation and should take affirmative steps to review your estate plan and make any necessary adjustments, because your contingent designations come into effect, if you have them. You must review everything to ensure that you have contingent designations and that the contingent beneficiaries still align with your wishes. For example, on a bank account you should make sure there is a contingent beneficiary — otherwise the account becomes a probate asset that may require court approval to access. Additionally, you should ensure that you have a contingent agent named in legal documents, such as a Health Care Proxy. It is very important to note that the law only revokes the benefits of the former spouse, but not any of his/her relatives. Therefore, if you have named relatives of your former spouse in any capacity under your estate plan and you no longer want them to be a part of your plan, you must make the necessary changes to remove them. It is also advisable to affirmatively remove your former spouse from all designations, because third parties (i.e. banks and other financial institutions) are not liable if they distribute funds to your former spouse unless they have actual notice of the divorce. For example, if your former spouse was named as an agent under your Power of Attorney, make sure that you revoke the prior power of attorney and bring the revocation and new power of attorney to the bank to be updated. Finally, be aware that this automatic revocation only takes effect when you receive a final decree or judgment of divorce (or annulment or separation). It is critical for you to review and revise your estate plan during the pendency of your divorce or beforehand. Take the case of Khloe Kardashian and Lamar Odom: they had been separated and a divorce was imminent, which meant that Khloe was still Lamar’s wife in the eyes of the law, and she stepped in to make health care decisions for him. A soon to be ex-spouse making health care decisions is probably not desirable in most cases; yet another reason why you should have your estate planning reviewed when considering a divorce. Ronald A. Fatoullah, Esq. is the principal of Ronald Fatoullah & Associates, a law firm that concentrates in elder law, estate planning, Medicaid planning, guardianships, estate administration, trusts, wills, and real estate. Yan Lian Kuang-Maoga is an elder law attorney with the firm. The law firm can be reached at 718-261-1700, 516-4664422, or toll free at 1-877-ELDER-LAW or 1-877-ESTATES. Mr. Fatoullah is also the cofounder of JR Wealth Advisors, LLC. The wealth management firm can be reached at 516-466-3300 or 800-353-3775. 50+
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Things You Must Know About Social Security's New Rules (Part 1) For many Americans, Social Security benefits are the bedrock of retirement income. Maximizing that stream of income is critical to funding your retirement dreams.
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he rules for claiming benefits can be complex, and recent changes to Social Security rules created a lot of confusion. But this guide will help you wade through the details. By educating yourself about Social Security, you can ensure that you claim the maximum amount to which you are entitled. Here are ten essentials you need to know. It's an Age Thing Your age when you collect Social Security has a big impact on the amount of money you ultimately get from the program. The key age to know is your full retirement age. For people born
between 1943 and 1954, full retirement age is 66. It gradually climbs toward 67 if your birthday falls between 1955 and 1959. For those born in 1960 or later, full retirement age is 67. You can collect Social Security as soon as you turn 62, but taking benefits before full retirement age results in a permanent reduction — as much as 25 percent of your benefit if your full retirement age is 66. Age also comes into play with kids: Minor children of Social Security beneficiaries can be eligible for a benefit. Children up to age 18, or up to age 19 if they are full-time students who haven't graduated from high school, and dis-
abled children older than 18 may be able to receive up to half of a parent's Social Security benefit. How Benefits Are Factored To be eligible for Social Security benefits, you must earn at least 40 "credits." You can earn up to four credits a year, so it takes ten years of work to qualify for Social Security. In 2016, you must earn $1,260 to get one Social Security work credit and $5,040 to get the maximum four credits for the year. Your benefit is based on the 35 years in which (Continued on page 26)
50+ LifeStyles July 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com
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Important Elder Law Updates for 2016! By David R. Okrent, CPA, Esq.
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lder Law, Estate Planning, Estate Administration and Special Needs are areas of law that change intermittently. We constantly monitor changes and assist government when necessary as to the feasibility of proposed changes. Below, are current changes that you should keep as a checklist, and guide. “The Care Act.” Hospitals are now required to allow a patient to designate a caregiver. The hospital must notify and meet with the caregiver 24 hours prior to patient discharge or transfer to discuss the patient’s plan of care, and give instruction on after-care tasks.
Medicaid Limits Individuals are allowed $14,850.00 of income, a total home equity up to $828,000 (if living in it), prepaid funeral, and certain retirement assets. They can also receive $50 a month of income while in a nursing home, and $845 if living at home, (a pooled trust at home can protect more income.) Married couples, may keep, $1,229.00 a month of income, and up to $21,750.00 in resources, certain retirement assets, prepaid funerals, and the home. If only one is applying for Home Care the combined amount is $3,364.50, (with the option of a pooled trust.) In addition, the applying spouse can have resources such as a home of any value between $74,820 and $119,220, certain retirement assets, and a prepaid funeral. If income and/or assets exceed this they can spend it down, the non-applying spouse can refuse to contribute the excess, and/or consider the use of a “Pooled Trust.” Five Year Lookback Currently, for every $12,390 that a Suffolk or Nassau resident transfers, makes them ineligible for one month for nursing home Medicaid, subject to a five year look back. Governor Cuomo has proposed to eliminate spousal refusal in the community and reduce the resource allowance. Tax Issues The Medical expense deduction limit is now 10 percent of AGI, unless the person is age 65 or older until 2017, and then becomes 7.5 percent. The deduction includes cost of long term care. Use of Qualified retirement assets (i.e. IRA) to pay for long term care, may make them tax free due to the offset of the medical deduction. Children, if they provide half the support of a parent, can deduct medical expenses incurred. (Continued on page 22)
50+ LifeStyles July 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com
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Stitchin’ for a Cause By Marcia Barazani
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he ladies of the Woodbury Gardens Stitch and Bitch Knitting club, a knitting circle that has been in existence for 15 years, and comprised of women who reside at Woodbury Gardens, are donating their time and effort to knitting lap blankets for veterans. The first carton of blankets has already been delivered to the Long Island Veteran’s Home in Stony Brook, and more are in the works. Materials used in the blankets are donated by friends and residents of the club. They start off as eight-inch squares in a variety of colors and stitching styles, and the club then stitches them together to form the blankets for this open-ended project. The ladies of the Stitch n’ Bitch club pictured are Shirley Alon, Loretta Amodeo, Maria Barazani, Vi Consentino, Rose Cucci, Diane Franchi, Betty Galluzzo, Sandy Goodman, Myrna Greenberg, Chris Guder-Pollitt, Marge Karklin, Lorraine Persico, Marie Rizzuto, Tina Schiavone, Lotte 50+ Schmerzler, Jean Solaski and Lee Terrana.
Stony Brook Medicine’s Advanced Imaging: At the Forefront of Technology, Expertise – and Convenience Now there’s another great reason to choose Stony Brook for diagnostic imaging: the new Advanced Imaging center at 1320 Stony Brook Road in Stony Brook, open this month.
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dvanced Imaging makes it easy and convenient to access high quality, state-ofthe-art diagnostics. Offering magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET) computed tomography (CT), xray, mammography and ultrasound in an all-new, full-service facility. The center is staffed by the same subspecialty-trained radiologists and experienced technologists who work at Stony Brook University Hospital. They are leaders in their field whose contributions to MRI technology won a Nobel Prize – and whose expertise serves a resource to the region, including our community hospitals, for specialized imaging. Easy and Convenient The new custom-designed imaging center, located behind the Coventry Commons Center, is designed to make it easy to get the diagnostics you need. Conveniences include: Easy scheduling: Many tests can be performed on a walk-in basis, and others can be scheduled the same day. Fast test results: Turnaround is efficient with same-day results available in most cases. Radiology expertise: Staffed by Stony Brook Medicine radiologists on site at all times. Free parking: Parking costs nothing and is right
in front of the building just a few steps away from the door. Lower cost: Depending on the patient’s insurance coverage, co-pays or co-insurance at the outpatient facility are usually lower than those for hospital-based imaging, so be sure to check with your provider. Technology, Expertise and Patient Comfort Advanced Imaging is distinguished by the same hallmarks as Stony Brook’s imaging program overall. These include the sophistication of the technology – both the hardware (equipment) and the software, including the algorithms that are used to calibrate imaging studies, positioning and dosage of radiation. The center offers combined PET/CT scans (a technology that Stony Brook was first to bring to Long Island) as well as a 64-slice CT scanner for cardiac imaging. In addition, the center’s 55 radiologists – the doctors who plan the studies and read the scans – are renowned not only as clinicians but also as physician-scientists conducting research and teaching the next generation of radiologists at Suffolk County’s only academic medical center. The skill, training and experience of the imaging
team, who administer the scans, position the equipment and ensure the patient’s comfort throughout the process, is another hallmark of the program. Low-Dose Imaging The center’s imaging team specializes in delivering the lowest doses of radiation possible for tests such as CT scans and x-rays, something particularly important for still-developing children. The team accomplishes this through a combination of sophisticated software, individualized test calibrations, and physician training and experience – without sacrificing accuracy or efficiency. Collaborative Communications A picture archiving and communications system (PACS) allows for rapid access to computerized (digital) images at multiple sites for both radiologists and referring physicians. High-speed data connections make it possible for images to be transmitted and viewed by doctors off site, making real-time consultations possible. A CD containing study images is provided at the request of the referring physician. To schedule an appointment, call 631-6382600. Open Monday through Saturday. 50+ 50+ LifeStyles July 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com
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Q:
TECH TALK Where All Your Technology Questions are Answered — by Nick Radesca, SeniorNet
Is there a way to pep up my old laptop computer?
A:
An old computer can be terribly slow for a number of software and hardware reasons. Finding and correcting each one can be a enormous task. However, there is a free way to make your old computer work like new, which involves installing a different operating system.
What’s a Chromebook? Gaining popularity are laptops using Google’s Chrome operating system which are called Chromebooks. A brand new Chromebook looks like a laptop with a foldout screen and manual keyboard but it is extremely dependent on an internet connection to operate because its functionality and data storage come by way of connection to your Google account and built in Chrome internet browser.fine. For a full discussion of laptops versus Chromebooks visit: www.differencebetween.com/difference-between-chromebook-and-vslaptop/.
Does Your Sick Laptop Computer Qualify? This link shows the computers that we know are sure to work: go.neverware.com/certifiedmodels.
CloudReady The free software that will convert your old computer is called CloudReady and is found along with installation instructions at: www.neverware.com/freedownload. Installation is a four-step process. 1. Download CloudReady onto a fully working computer — not the old laptop. 2. Transfer the just-downloaded CloudReady software to a USB flash drive 3. Back up the files on the old laptop 4. Plug the USB drive into the old laptop and reboot it from the USB flash drive.
How a Chromebook Works Once conversion is done your “new” Chromebook is ready to access the internet. A Chromebook requires some getting used to. Venturing beyond simple internet use requires some understanding of the Chrome operating system. To help there are many helpful articles and YouTube videos showing how.
SeniorNet Training Recently SeniorNet in Huntington began offering classes that assist students to convert their poor-performing laptops to the Chromebook plat50+ form. For information, call SeniorNet at 631-470-6757. 50+ LifeStyles July 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com
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ENTERTAINMENT
Swingtime Big Band D
edicated to the performance of America’s greatest popular standards, the Swingtime Big Band is a 20-piece authentic swing band comprised of master interpreters of music from the Swing Era (mid-1930's through early 1950's) Among the 20 consummate Big Band musicians who complete Swingtime's traditional instrumentation of reeds, brass and rhythm are numerous accomplished soloists, including performers with Billy Eckstine, Lionel Hampton, Buddy Rich, Jerry Vale, Ed Shaughnessy, the Tommy Dorsey and Artie Shaw Big Bands, as well as veterans of several popular regional big bands.
SWINGTIME features a female vocalist — Bobbie Ruth — who recreates the "gal vocal" stylings of such legendary singers as Peggy Lee, Ella Fitzgerald, Eydie Gorme, Helen Forrest, Billie Holiday, Anita O'Day and Judy Garland, and the
band’s male vocalist —Jerry Costanzo —brings to life the sound of such Big Band crooners and swingers as Nat ‘King’ Cole, Bobby Darin, Matt Monro, Dean Martin and, of course, the immortal Frank Sinatra. Leading the band is saxophonist and artistic director Steve Shaiman, a passionate advocate of Big Band swing for his entire musical life.
Swingtime returns to Heckscher Park’s Chapin Rainbow Stage for the 51st Huntington Summer Arts Festival (Sun., July 17) and other Suffolk County shows include: the Sachem Public Library in Holbrook (Fri., August 5); Greenport Summer “Dances in the Park” Series at Mitchell Park (Mon., July 25, and yes, there is
room for dancing!); Rocky Point Summer Concerts at St. Anthony of Padua Church (Tue., August 2; , and their 27th annual “homecoming” at Westhampton Beach Village Green Gazebo (Thurs., Aug. 4; Westhampton Beach Cultural Consortium).
And last, but certainly not least, we can’t wait for our annual performances for our friends in Nassau County, including: the Long Beach Concert Series (Thurs., July 7; Neptune Blvd. Stage); West Hempstead’s Community Assn. Concert Series at Halls Pond Park (Sun., July 24); and the Village of Cedarhurst’s Summer Concerts at the Gazebo (Tue., July 5). 50+
50+ LifeStyles July 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com
Theatre Three
22
ENTERTAINMENT
Bringing
BROADWAY
T
he Gateway is jumpin’ in the Tony Awardwinning, 1930s musical, Ain’t Misbehavin’! This musical, based on the infectious music of Fats Waller, provides an evening of songs that help to reflect the moods of the era, complete with memorable songs including, “Squeeze Me,” “Jitterbug Waltz,” “I’m Gonna Sit Right Down and Write Myself a Letter,” and, of course, the title song, “Ain’t Misbehavin’.” The Gateway is excited to announce the return of two alumni, Kingsley Leggs and Gerry McIntyre! Kingsley Leggs was seen on stage at The Gateway in the productions of Miss Saigon (2003), The Full Monty (2005), and Dreamgirls (2007). Gerry McIntyre choreographed the highly entertaining 9 to 5 (2012), in which Sally Struthers made her Gateway debut! Both Mr. Leggs and Mr. McIntyre have enjoyed successes on and off-Broadway. As a performer, Gerry McIntyre was on Broadway in Once on This Island (original cast), Any-
thing Goes (with Patti LuPone), Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (with Michael Damien), and A Christmas Carol (with Tim Curry), to name a few. He has also been in many prominent television shows, including Boardwalk Empire, Law and Order, and The Nanny, as well as appearing in the film version of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat with Donny Osmond and Joan Collins. In addition to performing, Mr. McIntyre is a highly soughtafter director and choreographer, making appearances at prominent off-Broadway and regional theatres including Berkshire Theatre Festival, Westport Playhouse, Lions Theatre, La Mirada Theatre, Actors Theatre, and the Pasadena Playhouse. Kingsley Leggs was on Broadway in Sister Act, The Color Purple, and Miss Saigon. National Tours include Porgy and Bess, Sister Act, Ragtime, Miss Saigon, It Ain’t Nothing But the Blues, and Forbidden Hollywood. Mr. Leggs is coming to us fresh from the Goodspeed’s reimagined
Back Home
Anything Goes, where he portrayed the role of Elisha Whitney. In addition to Goodspeed, Mr. Leggs has traveled to various regional theatres across the country including Northshore, South Bay CLO, Fulton, and the Denver Center. Ain’t Misbehavin’ plays at The Gateway from June 29-July 16. As always, theatergoers can save up to $15 per ticket on Main Stage shows and special events by purchasing a 3-4-5 Show Discount Plan. It’s easy – you pick the date, you pick the times, and you pick the number of shows. For tickets and information: Box Office: 631286-1133. Website: www.thegateway.org. Address: 215 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713. 50+ The Gateway’s 2016 season is generously sponsored by AARP Long Island and Suffolk Federal Credit Union. Funding provided, in part, by the County of Suffolk; and is made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature.
(Importand Elder Law Updates... continued from page 16)
Concert Series in Rocky Point
S
uffolk County Legislator Sarah Anker announce the schedule for the 2016 Downtown Rocky Point Summer Concert Series, hosted in conjunction with VFW Post 6249. Four concerts will be held at St. Anthony’s of Padua Parish in downtown Rocky Point (614 Route 25A, Rocky Point). The concerts will be held during August on Tuesdays, beginning at 7 p.m., and will help to support local businesses. Admission is free and attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets. “The Summer Concert Series provides a wonderful way for families and residents to enjoy local musical performances,” said Legislator Anker. “I encourage residents to join me at the concerts and to take advantage of the wonderful shops in downtown Rocky Point.” The Summer Concert schedule is as follows: August 2: Swingtime Big Band: Authentic Swing in Living Color August 9: Southbound: Long Island’s Country and Classic Rock Band August 16: Mike DelGuidice & Big Shot: Celebrating the Music of Billy Joel August 23: Strawberry Fields: The Ultimate Beatles Tribute In case of a cancellation due to weather, the rain date is scheduled for August 30. For more information, please contact the office of Legislator Sarah Anker at 631-854-1600.
50+ LifeStyles July 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com
Qualified long-term care premiums: Taxpayer age 40 or under – $380, age 41 to 50 – $710, age 51 to 60 – $1,430, Age 61 to 70 – $3,800, age 71 or over – $4,750, for each person. NY instead has a tax credit of 20 percent. Trusts Trust instruments, with certain provisions, are grantor and can use the grantors social security number as if it is a tax identification number, causing all items to be reported on their return. A separate return is not required; many incorrectly file a separate tax return and pay a higher tax. Estate Tax The Federal Tax Exemption is $5,450,000.00 and New York exemption, as of April 1, 2016 will be $4,187,500. The annual exclusion is $14,000. Sale of your Home. The time period for $250,000 ($500,000 if married filing jointly) exclusion on your primary residence if you have a disability, can reduce the two years to 12 months, and any time you spend living in a care facility (i.e nursing home) counts towards it. Delay taking RMD until age 85, using a Qualifying Longevity Annuity Contract. You can put the lesser of 25 percent or $125,000 or your IRA 50+ into this annuity so no distribution is required until age 85. Mr. Okrent, Esq. has been handling elder law, estate planning & special needs matters for over 30 years. He works on policy matters as the Long Island Delegate of the NYSBA\Elder Law Section. His former experience with the IRS gives him a unique perspective in creating estate plans. Visit www.davidrokrentlaw.com or call 631-427-4600.
24
ENTERTAINMENT
Age of Elegance By Ethel Bennett
Here Comes
D
2017
olores Hofman, Ms. New York Senior America 2016, sent an exciting note to Marleen Schuss, New York Senior America State Director. She spoke about her trip to Albany. She was accompanied by Elisabeth Zamarelli, Ms. New York Senior America 2010. They were welcomed at the State Capitol by Senator Todd Kaminski, from Long Beach. She was thrilled to be recognized by the many senators and representatives who make up this important part of our government. I recall when I was invited by Maxine Postal, who at that time was our local political leader, to speak at the Legislature about Senior America. Unfortunately, Maxine passed away at an early age, but she left her mark in Suffolk County. I have been very busy with packing and planning my move back to New York in July. My mind is filled with excitement and anticipation thinking of the new experiences awaiting me. In anticipation of the New York State 2017 Pageant to be held at Hofstra University, April 23, 2017, we are seeking possible participants. If you are 60-plus years and have a zest for life and a talent you can display on stage, as well as charm and a positive attitude, we want you! Call Marleen
Schuss for your interview and audition date at 516-678-3242. Simply complete and return the coupon below or e-mail Marleen Schuss at marleenschuss@aol.com if you are interested. A Special Thank You to Ed Mangano, Nassau County Executive, and Victoria Meyerhoefer, Office of the Aging for their unparalled support. 50+ COUPON Women Must Be 60 Years or Over I would like to compete in the 2017 Ms. New York Senior America Pageant. Name 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
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PERSONALS Retired F, 60, Seeking 60ish male, retired, movies, dining, travel, concerts, swimming, bowling, casinos. 631-320-4149 SWF seeking a male or female (5570) for friendship. I enjoy dining out, movies. No smokers please. Call 516-658-1918.
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
PROF. SERVICES HOUSE CLEANER Nassau/Western Suffolk County. 20 Years experience. Call Barbara for estimate. References. 631-532-9310. 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
Very young (58) creative, athletic, intellectual, professional gay woman seeks same (ages 45-60) Classifieds must be for loving committed relationship. submitted by the 15th. 516-532-9706. 50+ LifeStyles July 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com
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CROSSWORDS
Across 1. A stratum of coal 5. Monopoly properties (abbr) 8. Above (Ger) 12. Indonesian isle 13. Earth science prefix 14. A military alliance 15. Looking good 16. Active pepper ingredient 18. Marvel Comic giant 20. You can play this 21. A highly successful act 23. Value of all goods and services (abbr) 24. Bald airport pests? 28. Fill 31. Surface to air missile (abbr) 32. Waif Down 1. Microsoft division (abbr) 2. A peerage rank 3. Landed softly 4. Apes 5. Oft asked for after elections 6. Defunct electronics giant 7. Year after frosh 8. Usually served with liver 9. Rucksack 10. Small ornamental case 11. A city in NY and Italy 17. VN-era commando group (abbr) 19. Chemotherapy name 22. Separates hair 24. Krazy ___ 25. Batter’s stat
(Solution on page 4) 34. A mutt 35. Pointers at the track 37. Bare runner 39. Caveman’s last name 41. Position (Latin) with “in” 42. Response 45. Approx. half of the time 49. Serving 51. Saarinen first name 52. Japan’s legislature 53. School advisory assistance group 54. Precipitation 55. UK caffeine-free drink 56. So-sos 57. Good news on Broadway
26. Deceiver 27. Chemical weapon (two words) 29. Weekday abbr. 30. It doesn’t make you divine. 33. Himalayan Bigfoot 36. Apartheid nexus township 38. Helical tools 40. Each 42. Charged-up rock band 43. Phillipine’s main airport (init) 44. Ready to pick … or bury 46. To perceive audio 47. Threesome 48. Often business partners 50. Relating to an unspecified ordinal number
50+ LifeStyles July 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com
26 (10 things... continued from page 14) you earned the most money. If you have fewer than 35 years of earnings, each year with no earnings will be factored in at zero. You can increase your benefit by replacing those zero years, say, by working longer, even if it's just part-time. But don't worry — no low-earning year will replace a higher-earning year. The benefit isn't based on 35 consecutive years of work, but the highest-earning 35 years. So if you decide to phase into retirement by going part-time, you won't affect your benefit at all if you have 35 years of higher earnings. But if you make more money, your benefit will be adjusted upward, even if you are still working while taking your benefit. There is a maximum benefit you can receive. For someone at full retirement age in 2016, the maximum monthly benefit is $2,639. Estimate your own benefit by using Social Security's online Retirement Estimator. COLA Isn't Just a Soft Drink One of the most attractive features of Social Security benefits is that
every year the government adjusts the benefit for inflation. Known as a cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA, this inflation protection can help you keep up with rising living expenses during retirement. The COLA, which is automatic, is quite valuable; buying inflation protection on a private annuity can cost a pretty penny. Because the COLA is calculated based on changes in a federal consumer price index, the size of the COLA depends largely on broad inflation levels determined by the government. For example, in 2009, beneficiaries received a generous COLA of 5.8 percent. But retirees learned a hard lesson in 2010 and 2011, when prices stagnated as a result of the recession. There was no COLA in either of those years. For 2012, the COLA came back at 3.6 percent, but dropped to less than 2 percent in the next few years. But bad news came again this year: Prices were flat, and thus there was no COLA for 2016. The COLA for the following year is announced in October. The Extra Benefit of Being a Spouse Marriage brings couples an advantage when it comes to Social Security. Namely, one spouse can take what's called a spousal benefit, worth up to 50 percent of the other spouse's benefit. Put simply, if your benefit is worth $2,000 but your spouse's is only worth $500, your spouse can switch to a spousal benefit worth $1,000 — bringing in $500 more in income per month. The calculation changes, however, if benefits are claimed before full retirement age. If you claim your spousal benefit before your full retirement age, you won't get the full 50 percent. If you take your own benefit early and then later switch to a spousal benefit, your spousal benefit will still be reduced. Note that you cannot apply for a spousal benefit until your spouse has applied for his or her own benefit. Income for Survivors If your spouse dies before you, you can take a so-called survivor benefit. If you are at full retirement age, that benefit is worth 100 percent of what your spouse was receiving at the time of his or her death (or 100 percent of what your spouse would have been eligible to receive if he or she hadn't yet taken benefits). A widow or widower can start taking a survivor benefit at age 60, but the benefit will be reduced because it's taken before full retirement age. If you remarry before age 60, you cannot get a survivor benefit. But if you remarry after age 60, you may be eligible to receive a survivor benefit based on your former spouse's earnings record. Eligible children can also receive a survivor benefit, worth up to 75% of the deceased's benefit. Divorce a Spouse, Not the Benefit What if you were married, but your spouse is now an ex-spouse? Just because you're divorced doesn't mean you've lost the ability to get a benefit based on your former spouse's earnings record. You can still qualify to receive a benefit based on his or her record if you were married at least ten years, you are 62 or older, and single. Like a regular spousal benefit, you can get up to 50 percent of an ex-spouse's benefit -- less if you claim before full retirement age. And the beauty of it is that your ex never needs to know because you apply for the benefit directly through the Social Security Administration. Taking a benefit on your ex's record has no effect on his or her benefit or the benefit of your ex's new spouse. And unlike a regular spousal benefit, if your ex qualifies for benefits but has yet to apply, you can still take a benefit on the ex's record if you have been divorced for at least two years. Note: Ex-spouses can also take a survivor benefit if their ex has died first, and like any survivor benefit, it will be worth 100 percent of what the ex-spouse received. If you remarry after age 60, you will still be eligible for the survivor benefit. 50+ Part 2 coming next month...
50+ LifeStyles July 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com
27 (Nassau and Suffolk Seniors of the Year, continued from front cover) Mangano. In introducing Borelli, Mangano said, “His dedication to underprivileged children makes him truly deserving of the recognition accorded to him.” Joseph grew up in East Harlem, and joined the Boys Club at a young age. In 1961, he married his wife, Louise, and moved to Valley Stream. They have three daughters and five grandchildren. These memories left an indelible impression on him, and he vowed he would always work to give back to the Boys Club. He is a very active member of the Boys Club Alumni Association, and has organized innumerable events in both New York and Florida to raise funds for these children. Joseph is also an active member and contributor to the Long Island Society of Italian Americans and the Loyal Order of the Moose. In introducing Patricia O’Brien, Mangano noted, “Her dedication to homeless and struggling Long Island veterans, children of veterans and active duty military in war zones truly illustrates why Patricia is deserving of the recognition accorded to her.” Patricia was born in the Bronx and raised in New Rochelle. She resides in Manhasset with her husband, Donald. They have one daughter, who lives with her family in New Hyde Park. Their grandchildren are their greatest joy. Patricia taught math for 13 years in a Long Island high school, and then worked a 20-year challenging career with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority in New York City. She rose to the position of Vice President.
Patricia has been the foundation of several veteran projects, including raising funds for veterans returning home, sending packages to troops in Afghanistan, and transporting veterans to and from their homes in Nassau County to the Northport VA Medical Center. She has promoted youth involvement with veteran collections, promotes patriotism, teaches service, supports, and strengthens the community. Patricia’s advice is “Just do it! Each of us has been blessed with gifts and talents that should be shared.” She continues to share her gifts and talents helping veterans abroad and those struggling at home. At the Suffolk Senior Celebration dinner on May 19, attended by over 500 people, Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone congratulated Irene Grzegorczyk of Brentwood for her selection as Suffolk County Senior Citizen of the Year. “Irene is an inspiration to all of us as she has spent countless hours volunteering for the Retired Senior Volunteer Program and has been essential to the Community Computer Connection Program, which provides free refurbished computers to those who are in need,” Bellone said. “Irene’s determination, humor, patience and generosity truly embody the meaning of this award. Please join me in congratulating Irene and thank her for her outstanding service that she has provided to thousands of families in Suffolk County.” Irene has been a volunteer at RSVP-Suffolk for 10 years (svpsuffolk.orgnylaurah@msn.com). She coordinates the support staff for RSVP’s Community Computer Connections Program. According to an RSVP spokesperson, Irene’s ded-
Radar, Bed Sensors Help Health Providers Detect Problems Early
D
eveloping and evaluating motion-capture technology to help older adults “age in place” has been the focus of researchers at the University of Missouri for more than a decade. Previous research has utilized video game technology and various web-cameras to detect health changes in residents. Now, two new studies demonstrate how monitoring walking speed using radar, and heart health by utilizing bed sensors help maintain older adults’ health and warn of impeding issues. “In-home sensors have the ability to capture early signs of health changes before older adults recognize problems themselves,” said Marjorie Skubic, professor of electrical and computer engineering in the MU College of Engineering and director of MU’s Center for Eldercare and Rehabilitation Technology. “The radar enhances our ability to monitor
ication to the program and her very efficient clerical skills have contributed greatly to its success. “At 82, Irene is one the best example that I know of as the ‘Fountain of Youth’ in active aging,” said Pegi Orsino, Executive Director of RSVP. Irene is a single mother of three and grandmother to two and has resided in Brentwood for the past 45 years. In her past professional career she has worked for Nationwide Insurance and spent from 1989 to her retirement in 2006 as Executive Assistant to the CFO at Entenmann’s in Bay Shore. Being the energizer bunny that she is, Irene quickly decided she had to return to some meaningful activity and joined RSVP in 2007. The Community Computer Connections Project was just under development and in dire need of clerical organization, support and systems development to support the influx of requests that were about to happen when it opened as a free service of RSVP. The CCC takes donated computers, refurbishes them under a Microsoft Refurbishing license and gives them to low-income families and individuals in Nassau and Suffolk. Irene’s skills have enabled RSVP to grow the program, complete with documentation necessary to the licensing required by Microsoft, and become the front line for recipients requesting technology that they cannot afford to purchase. Over the eight years Irene has worked in CCC, more than 3200 computers have been distributed. What began as a good idea for the community was assisted by Irene’s energy and commitment to bring this program to fruition. She proves that volunteering keeps you “other focused” and her 50+ award is well deserved.
By Molly Peterson
walking speed and determine if a senior has a fall risk; the bed sensors provide data on heart rate, respiration rate, and overall cardiac activity when a senior is sleeping. Both sensors are non-invasive and don’t require seniors to wear monitoring devices.” Skubic and her team also developed a bed sensor with the ability to continuously monitor heart rate, respiration rate and overall cardiac activity. The bed sensors are made using a hydraulic transducer, which is a flexible tube of water. The transducer measures the ballistocardiogram, which is the mechanical effect of the blood flowing through the body as a result of the heart beating. In the study, four hydraulic transducers were placed under a mattress to capture cardiac data of the participants. The study, Estimation of Human Walking
Speed by Doppler Radar for Elderly Care, recently was accepted by the Journal of Ambient Intelligence and Smart Environments. Funding for the study was provided by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. The study “Heart Rate Monitoring Using Hydraulic Bed Sensors Ballistocardiogram” recently was accepted by the Journal of Ambient Intelligence and Smart Environments. Marilyn Rantz, Curators’ Professor Emerita of Nursing in the Sinclair School of Nursing also contributed to the study. Funding for this work was provided by the Nad50+ tional Science Foundation. 50+ LifeStyles July 2016 • 50PlusLifestyles.com