Senior Living 03-23-17 Queens Chronicle by Queens Chronicle

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SPRING 2017

SENIOR LIVING GUIDE • Spring 2017

• How to choose a rehab center after surgery • Volunteering in Queens • Staying fit in the senior years

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, March 23, 2017 Page 2

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Right in Your Neighborhood

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Specializing in: • Inpatient Short-Term Rehabilitation Offered Seven Days a Week • 24-Hour Skilled Nursing Care • Outpatient Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Speech Therapy • Adult Day Health Care

718-205-0287 ★ U.S. News and World Report Ranks Queens Boulevard Extended Care Facility among “America’s Best Nursing Homes” ★ Accredited by The Joint Commission ★ Rated 5 Star for Performance by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid ★ Ranked Best out of all facilities in Queens County, rated AAA in New York State by CareScout ©2017 M1P • QUBO-071210

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61-11 Queens Boulevard • Woodside, NY 11377 website: www.qbecf.com

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Nursing and… Beyond the Bedside Healthcare Consulting & Geriatric Care Management

• PRI/SCREENS • Home Assessments • Home Care Referrals • Long-Term Care Referrals

• Wound Care • Medication Management • Medical Equipment • Legal Nurse Consulting

Sharon L. Cohen, RN, CWCN, CWS, WCC, CLNC

PARTICIPATING ADVERTISERS Affordable Cremation Services of NY AIM House Calls Chapin Home for the Aging Elder Care Services Fidelis Healthcare Forest Hills Podiatric Forest Park Dental Jones Surgical Company Margaret Tietz Nursing & Rehab Center Naomi Berrie Diabetes Center Parker Jewish Institute Healthcare Queens Blvd. Extended Care Facility Queens LI Renal Institute Rockaway Home Care Sharon Cohen, RN Silvagni & Como Attorneys at Law, PLLC Silvercrest Center for Nursing & Rehabilitation St. Michael’s Cemetery Stairglide NY

CONTENTS How to choose a rehab center after surgery Page 6 Staying fit in the senior years Page 10 Volunteer opportunities in Queens Page 14 Publisher - Mark Weidler Section Editor - Peter C. Mastrosimone Marketing Coordinator - Debrah Gordon Layout - Terry Nusspickel

PROTECT YOUR HOME & ASSETS FROM NURSING HOME BILLS

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• Elder Law • Estate Planning • Asset Protection • Living Trusts & Wills • Medicaid Home Care and Nursing Home Applications • Estate and Probate Matters • Real Estate

Giovanni P. Silvagni, Esq.

FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION CALL 718-928-3355

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THE TRUTH ABOUT MEDICAID The Truth is: ANYONE can become Medicaid eligible Many seniors don’t realize that the services provided by Medicaid are the same as those paid privately. Seniors shouldn’t deplete their life savings in order to receive the home care or nursing home assistance they need. Let Elder Care Services, Inc. help you through the process of Medicaid eligibility. They can correct most every Medicaid denial and guarantee positive results. March 7, 2016

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Iris & Dianne

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, March 23, 2017 Page 6

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Senior Living Guide

How to choose the right rehab facility by Mark Lord

a full-time skilled nursing staff trained in rehabilitation care. In Queens, there are only three t is estimated that a person loses between 2 and 5 percent of his or such facilities, including the one at her muscle mass with each day NYC Health + Hospitals/Queens in of inactivity. So, even a brief hospital Jamaica, the former Queens Hospital stay can lead to a rapid decline in Center. The facility’s primary goal is to one’s physical ability to accomplish maximize functional independence, daily activities. It is common, therefore, for according to its website, which indipatients, particularly the elderly, to cates that 88 percent of its inpatients require rehabilitation services to help are discharged directly to their in recuperation following a major homes following treatment. The cornerstone of the center is its health event that involves hospitalization, such as surgery, a serious individualized treatment, which fall, stroke or other catastrophic includes six days a week of therapy, for a minimum of three hours per incident. Choosing the most appropriate day. It also offers comprehensive outcourse can be a daunting task, but it patient services that encompass a is a vitally important one. Experts continuum of care. More common are skilled nursing advise weighing all possible options before making a decision, which they facilities, which may also be referred to as subacute s ay w i l l v a r y care facilities or depending on an postacute rehabiliindividual’s parithout a plan tation facilities. ticular situation. One such cenRehabilitation in place ahead ter, Parker Jewish services include Instit ute for physical therapy of time, a Health Care and (to improve Rehabilitation in strength, mobility family can be New Hyde Park, is and fitness), occuwiped out.” a 527-bed facility pational therapy with 1,200 (for help with per— Elder law attorney e m p l o y ees, fo r m i n g d a i l y Ann-Margaret Carrozza according to Lina activities), speech Scacco, assistant therapy (for improvement of speaking, under- vice president for corporate outreach standing and swallowing), and nurs- and development. “We offer a very broad spectrum ing care. Various settings are of services,” Scacco said. “We’re a available. Inpatient rehabilitation facilities, little ahead of the curve ball. We’re also known as acute care rehabilita- used as a model for skilled nursing tion centers, are found as both stand- facilities.” And, she pointed out, “Our locaalone rehabilitation hospitals and as separate wings in hospitals. Such tion is so central.” Through the on-site Nerken Cenfacilities are under the strictest requirements, providing intensive, ter for Research and Grants, the multi-disciplinary therapies under facility is “able to get into things the supervision of doctors as well as being developed for clinical trials,” Chronicle Contributor

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“W

Rehabilitation facilities do not all offer the same services, says Dr. Vincent Marchello, chief medical officer for Rego Park-based insurer Fidelis Care, one PHOTO BY MARK LORD of many factors to consider when choosing the right one.

specifically in the area of emerging issues of aging, she said. According to Scacco, Parker Jewish also offers hemodialysis and the services of an on-site pharmacy. Another subacute rehabilitation facility is Queens Boulevard Extended Care Facility in Woodside, which offers physical, occupational and speech therapy as inpatient and outpatient services. Dr. Jonathan Mawere, the facility’s administrator and chief operating officer, takes pride in the facility’s aim to “never say ‘no’ when it comes to patients’ needs. Once a patient is in our four walls, we deliver what they need.” With 500 employees over a threeshift schedule, the 280-bed facility offers a good patient-to-caregiver ratio, said Mawere, adding, “We recognize the needs cannot be provided without the staff.” According to Mawere, the facility has received top ratings from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and from CareScout, which he said rated it No. 1 in New York State. “We are beyond those facilities that are considered nursing homes,” Mawere said. Regal Heights Rehabilitation and Health Care Center in Jackson Heights, a 280-bed, 24-hour skilled nursing facility, which has also been awarded the top rating from CMS, promotes itself as the place “where your loved ones are cared for like family.” “We provide emotional, spiritual, cognitive and physical support through various activities such as music, art, movement, cognitive games, entertainment and intergenerational activities with local schoolchildren,” explained recreation therapist Sharon Weinman. “For short-term rehabilitation patients, we all work as a team ideally to improve quality of life and focus on their strengths rather than weaknesses,” she said. These are but a few such facilities available within the borough, making the selection process particularly arduous. Ac c ord i ng t o D r. Vi nc e nt Marchello, chief medical officer for Fidelis Care in Rego Park, which provides health insurance for people of all ages and at all stages of life, preplanning is essential. “My recommendation would be one of preparation. The first step would be to obtain a list of rehabilitation facilities in the desired geographic location. The next step is to identify which facilities are participating in the network with the health

Physical therapy is just one of many services rehabilitation facilities in Queens offer to their senior clients. Almost all accept Medicare and Medicaid, notes elder law attorney Nancy Brady, but the eligibility rules are complex. i n s u r a n c e p l a n ,” M a r c h e l l o explained. He also pointed out that it is important to note that not all rehabilitation facilities offer the same programs and expertise. According to Marchello, major issues can occur when patients or their families have not preplanned and need to make decisions without the time to thoroughly investigate all possibilities. It is a point with which elder law attorney Ann-Margaret Carrozza agrees. “Without a plan in place ahead of time, a family can be wiped out,” she said. “I encourage people to set up a trust to protect assets ahead of time. The so-called look-back period is currently five years. That means that my house or other assets need to be in the trust for that amount of time before being off-limits to a nursing home.” According to Carrozza, who maintains several offices including one in Bayside, the current national healthcare debate fails to include discussion about long-term care. Under existing laws, Medicare provides “a very limited benefit” for rehabilitation following a hospital admission, which must be at least a three-day stay, Carrozza said. Medicare and a Medicare supplement policy together will pay up to the first 100 days of rehabilitation,

she said. Following this, if someone needs extended stay in rehab, the family should expect to pay more than $15,000 per month, she said. It should be pointed out that rules for Medicare coverage in a skilled nursing facility are quite different from those in an inpatient rehabilitation facility, in terms of both number of days covered and the amount of co-payments. Nancy Brady, an elder law attorney with Brady & Marshak LLP in Howard Beach, points out that Medicaid benefits are available for the elderly, blind and disabled in New York to help pay for long-term care in a facility, provided financial eligibility requirements are met. An attorney experienced in Medicaid planning can outline and carry out a plan to protect one’s assets to the extent possible under the Medicaid regulations, she said. “Individuals should not pay a rehabilitation facility without meeting with an attor ney for such advice,” she cautions, adding that almost all the facilities in the borough accept Medicare and Medicaid benefits. She also suggested that “family members should go and see the facility in person and take a tour prior to loved ones being admitted.” Weinman agrees, suggesting that “the feel of the environment is the continued on page 14

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, March 23, 2017 Page 8

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Wake up relaxed and refreshed Whether it is a better night’s sleep, a more comfortable place to rest or relief from the symptoms of an injury or ailment, a Flex-A-Bed ® adjustable bed is your bed for life. Sleep like you’ve never slept before in a bed that adjusts to you. The perfect sleep position for the head and feet is within reach with your choice of one-touch wireless or wired controls and whisper quiet motor technology provided by Linak and made in the USA. Flex-A-Bed truly is made for your life. Flex-A-Bed can help you live your life to the fullest. A Flex-A-Bed adjustable bed can help relieve the symptoms of ailments such as: • Swollen legs and feet • Arthritis • Phlebitis • Acid Reflux • Varicose veins • Asthma • Breathing disorders • Back pain • Neck pain • Hiatal Hernias Because Flex-A-Bed fits the bed to your body, you’ll never resort to sleeping in a recliner, stacking pillows or putting blocks under the head of your bed again. A simple push of a button, and your head and feet are instantly adjusted to a comfortable, restful position. Close your eyes and envision what it’s like to spend the entire day feeling refreshed, energized and relaxed. Imagine finding relief from the symptoms of an injury or ailment. If you’ve been dreaming about discovering this kind of comfort in a bed, consider the Flex-A-Bed Premier. The Flex-A-Bed Premier sets the standard for comfort and convenience in an adjustable

bed. Every amenity Flex-ABed offers can be added to the Premier model. This fully customizable bed can be designed and built in hundreds of configurations so that your specific needs are fulfilled. The Flex-A-Bed Premier is available in twin, full, queen, dual queen, king, dual king, and California king in 74, 80 and 84 inch lengths. The height of the Flex-A-Bed Premier comes standard at 23 inches and can be lowered to 21 inches by removing the casters. The height of each bed can also be raised in 1 inch increments from 2 to 7 inches with optional leg extensions. Mattresses are also available in low-profile, gel-infused memory foam, memory foam, latex or combination innerspring/memory foam. Choose from soft, medium or firm construction and your choice of one-touch wireless or wired controls. Every Premier comes with a lifetime, limited warranty. Note: A Flex-A-Bed adjustable bed should not be considered as an alternative to a hospital bed. A physician should be consulted when health issues are involved as to the appropriateness of an adjustable bed. Flex-A-Bed is available exclusively in Queens at Jones Surgical located at 101-21 Metropolitan Ave. in Forest Hills. They can be reached at 718-261-9500 or visit them at www.jonessurgical.com.

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Conveniently located in Woodside, Queens Boulevard Extended Care Facility is the area’s premier provider of multicare services. Whether you or someone you love requires Our exceptional staff of licensed therapists, skilled nursing care, short-term rehab, adult clinicians, physicians, nurse practitioners, day care or outpatient rehabilitation, you’ll find nursing and rehab-support specialists is key to the highest quality care at Queens Boulevard our success. Utilizing cutting-edge equipment, and the latest therapeutic techniques and treatExtended Care Facility. Care at QBECF combines the latest technology ment protocols, QBECF’s team of experts treats and sophisticated advances in medical care with patients with a wide range of conditions. In addition to our expertise an old-fashioned dedication to in care and therapy, our unique personalized, patient-centered setting and atmosphere for care and services that are healing are additional reasons unmatched. behind our consistent rehab We work with our patients results, as shown by our awards, and families to create a warm, accreditations and affiliations. homelike atmosphere. IndividuShort-term and long-term alism and relationship-building patients reside in separate, dediare encouraged and respected. cated wings of our facility with Our staff will hold your hand private and semi-private rooms, from admission to discharge, flat-screen TVs, telephone and and every step in between. In internet access, and restaushort, at QBECF, we’ll always rant-quality dining services, treat you like family. supplemented by a full complement of luxury amenities and When it comes to rebuild61-11 Queens Blvd. diverse recreational and social ing and restoring function, we Woodside, NY 11377 know that each person is spe- 718-205-0287 www.qbecf.com activities. cial and unique. Our sub-acute, Exceptional care, consistent short-term programs are custom-tailored to meet quality, safety, security, social engagement, individual needs, incorporating all appropriate homelike accommodations and uplifting services, tools and techniques in a coordinated, quality of life. These are the hallmarks of fully integrated effort. Our staff all have the same care at QBECF. Cultivated since our foundoverriding goals: to get patients back on their ing in 1995, these qualities are also the feet, restored to the highest levels of strength, reasons why today we are recognized as the mobility and independence, as safely, effectively, area’s leading skilled nursing and rehabilitation services provider. and quickly as possible. ©2017 M1P • QUBO-071211

Cremation made simple. And affordable. $1195 complete.*

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We’re here to support you through a difficult time with simple cremation services to suit your family’s wishes and needs. And we’ve made it affordable. *Starting at $1195 for a complete cremation. $2585 for a direct cremation and celebration of life ceremony. Throughout the entire cremation process, your loved one is in our care at all times. And we guarantee it. We are the only local provider to offer a 10-step cremation process backed by our exclusive Cremation with Confidence™ Guarantee. “We Guarantee The Cremation With Confidence.” Please call us for a copy of our free Cremation With Confidence™ brochure and to learn more about our guarantee. Please send me a copy of “Cremation With Confidence™” NAME

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And Its On-Site

ADULT DAY CARE CENTER We create a caring and social environment with activities to stimulate the mind, body and soul for the elderly. Family caregivers will have peace of mind knowing their loved one is spending the day at Chapin Adult Day Health Care Center, where there is a safe, fun and healthy interactive atmosphere.

Page 9 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, March 23, 2017

Chapin Home For The Aging

RANGE OF SERVICES OFFERED: • • • • • • • • • •

Transportation – Ambulette Pickup Door-to-Door Therapeutic Recreation Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy as needed Coordination of medical care Assistance with activities of daily living Breakfast, lunch and snacks served daily Medication management by RN Counseling Coordination of care with family Multilingual staff

GOALS OF THE PROGRAM:

Caring in Three Centuries Voluntary, not-for-profit skilled-nursing facility with private and semi-private rooms, offering compassionate residential and adult day-care services for your loved ones. ❖ 24-hour registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and certified assistants

❖ Physical, occupational and speech therapists

❖ Registered dieticians for specialized diets

❖ Therapeutic recreation and daily activities

Promotion of maximum independence Prevention of functional deterioration Socialization to alleviate isolation Support and respite for families and caregivers Delay in, or avoidance of, institutionalization

FUN ACTIVITIES AT THE ADULT CENTER GAMES: • Bingo • Wii Games • Word Games

CLUBS/GROUPS: • Cooking Club • Discussion Groups • Gardening Club • Walking Club

OTHER ACTIVITIES: • Beauty Parlor • Creative Arts • Dancing • Field Trips • Music & Movement • Pet Therapy • Religious Program • Sing-Along • Trivia • Yoga

165-01 Chapin Parkway, Jamaica, NY 11432 Tel: (718)

739-2523

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(718) 291-0989

LIVING • Spring 2017 ForSENIOR the latest newsGUIDE visit qchron.com

❖ Board-certified attending physicians and consulting specialists

• • • • •

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, March 23, 2017 Page 10

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Senior Living Guide

Keeping fit in your golden years by Victoria Zunitch Chronicle Contributor

hose among us who are significantly mature need to keep up with the same health basics we’ve lear ned since childhood. But if you’ve been skating by on the advantages of youth and find yourself in your golden years with subpar health habits, there’s a lot you can do. “It’s never too late to start making changes. If you’re 50, the die isn’t cast. You can start to make changes now,” said Anna-Carina Sporri, a registered dietitian nutritionist who works at a long-term care facility in Queens. Eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise and sleep, taking care of teeth and seeing a medical doctor for regular checkups all remain relevant to seniors. And of course they shouldn’t smoke or drink too much alcohol, and need to take medicine as prescribed but keep away from recreational drugs. Yet there are particularities of maintaining health in old age that require special attention once one graduates from the middle of life.

Both exercising and doing things with other people are important for older people to remain both physically and mentally fit as they age, along with proper nutrition and medical care.

members to participate in any class at their own level and advise the instructor of their situation. Limitless also offers beginner classes and workshops. Retro Fitness, a nationwide chain, has locations in Glendale, Astoria and Rego Park, as well as Brooklyn. It offers both group classes and personal training, as well as a smoothie bar. The New York City Parks Department offers steeply discounted memberships for those 62 and up. For just $25, a senior can join a gym and pump iron for a year. Or, join a city pool, also $25 for a year, and swim laps or take part in special programming for an entire year. The popular community center programs known as “Y”s were founded for young people — that’s what the “Y” stands for — but seniors have long been well-served by the Young Men’s/Young Women’s Christian and Hebrew associations. The Central Queens YM/YWHA in Forest Hills, the Flushing YMCA and the Samuel Field Y in Little Neck and Bay Terrace all encourage members from all faiths to join, in addition to providing faith-connected programming.

Get social, stay social

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The medical community continues to find support for the idea that socialization is an “absolute key” to good health in the senior years, said Dr. Gisele Wolf-Klein, professor of medicine at Northwell Hofstra School of Medicine and director of geriatric education at Northwell Health. “Family and friends pass on, and isolation looms,” Wolf-Klein said. Seniors who stay active in any kind of pursuit regularly involving other people find it easier to remain mentally healthy, and that helps motivate one to stay physically healthy, too. “If you haven’t had an activity yet, pick one that you want. It has to be one with other people,” Wolf-Klein said. Wolf-Klein offered the example of a lady she knows on Long Island who runs walking clubs. Others are the type to be out taking

classes or participating in clubs that meet at least once a week, such as a painting class, dancing or bridge clubs, and socializing with pets. Taking a dog to a dog-friendly area in a park is a favorite way to make friends and even look for romance at all ages. Check the New York City Parks Department website under the key words “Dogs in New York City Parks” for a list of dog-friendly locations. “We are social animals,” Wolf-Klein said. “All social animals do better in packs. Wolves, elephants — and humans are no different.” Pets without people can also provide a meaningful activity and comfort for those who can take them in. Advocates for seniors, like the AARP, and for animals, like American Humane, claim the two are made for each other. Of course, think carefully about making the right match. A less-mobile or homebound city senior would obviously do better with a cat than a big, energetic dog. New technology can help seniors stay in touch with friends and loved ones, but it can be tricky to keep up with. That’s another area where classes and social contact can help. Check with public libraries and adult education programs for user classes. Wolf-Klein likes Skype for seniors because, knowing they will appear on video, it forces people to get dressed and put themselves together as much as they might to meet someone at a diner. “You know you have a date at 5 p.m. on Skype,” she said. Sheer fun is also key. Wolf-Klein is particularly fond of a toy that stimulates a bit of social feeling: artificial pets, such as lifelike robotic cats or barking dogs that can perform tricks.

Medical needs The city Parks Department website will tell you which of our green spaces welcome dogs.

At any age, it’s important to keep up with check-ups. By the time we reach senior status, many have developed or identified chronic health conditions.

“You should discuss with your physician the Nutrition specific checkups you should have, based on Between one-third and one-half of U.S. your age and other conditions,” Wolf-Klein adults admitted to the hospital — not just older said. adults, but all adults — is found to be at risk of For example, if you have diabetes, she points malnutrition upon entry, and about half of older out that it’s very, very important to see a podia- adults in rehabilitation settings are malnourtrist and an ophthalmologist annually. ished, according to the Gerontological Society “One thing I insist on with my older adults is of America, a nonprofit promoting the scientifthat they have at least once a year an annual ic study of aging. skin check, because there are problems with You can be underweight, the perfect weight the skin of older adults,” and or overweight and still be many areas on the body malnourished. Sometimes, where a person can’t see solitude can lead to lonelitheir own skin, Wolf-Klein oining a city gym or ness or simply the lack of a said. regular schedule, both of pool costs only $25 which can cause people to Gynecological exams remain important for those skip formal, well-balanced a year for seniors. women in their 80s and 90s meals. who are sexually active, “People who live on their especially if they have multiown are less likely to meet ple partners, she said. But a woman who has no their nutritional needs,” Sporri said. history of gynecological problems and no lonIf mealtime loneliness is a concern, it ger has a partner may not need to continue requires some social problem-solving. gynecological exams into her 70s. Some seniors have money in the budget for For men in their 80s and 90s, Wolf-Klein dining out alone or with friends, or invite othsays that doctors are “much less insistent” on ers over for regular meals. Senior centers in annual prostate exams because prostate disease Queens offer low-cost meals that provide an is “very, very slow growing.” opportunity to eat with neighbors, sometimes before or after social activities and classes. Just two examples: In Little Neck, the SamGyms For the younger or still-mobile older senior, uel Field Y hosts the Sam’s Senior Cafe lunch joining a gym can provide both social contact program, which serves kosher meals to anyone over 60 years of age between 11:30 a.m. and 1 and a chance to exercise. A minimum of 30 minutes per day of exer- p.m. on weekdays for a suggested contribution cise is recommended for seniors. This should of $2.50. And the Catholic Charities Howard include weight-bearing exercises, which help to Beach Senior Center includes a traditional maintain the muscles that prevent falls in Catholic “meatless Friday,” usually fish, as part of its weekday 12 p.m. lunch program — also seniors. Limitless Fitness (formerly known as Gold’s open to all — catered by Russo’s On The Bay. Wolf-Klein said aging adults may become Gym) in Howard Beach offers the opportunity to purchase a single class session to get familiar undernourished if they have difficulty obtainwith the gym before committing to a member- ing food because of trouble getting to the marship. While many of the classes appear to be ket, because funds are low or because vision continued on page 17 aimed at hardcore athletes, the gym encourages

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FOR TYPE 2 DIABETES

Page 11 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, March 23, 2017

Participate in a Research Study

The National Institutes of Health, in collaboration with medical clinics across the country, is conducting the GRADE study, a research study to determine the best long-term combination drug treatment for type 2 diabetes. We are seeking people with type 2 diabetes who are interested in participating. You may be eligible if you: ➤ Have had type 2 diabetes for less than 10 years ➤ Only take metformin for your diabetes ➤ Are over 30 years old Call 212-851-5414 today to schedule a screening phone interview

NAOB-071419

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t h e ca r e u n t i l t h e cu r e

The Naomi Berrie Diabetes Center at Columbia University Medical Center 1150 St. Nicholas Ave. (Fl 2) New York, N.Y. 10032 To enroll, call Camille at 212-851-5414 or email cvh2110@columbia.edu

Understanding Medicaid: Frequently Asked Questions What is the diﬀerence between Medicare and Medicaid? Glycemic Reduction Approaches in Diabetes: A Comparative Effectiveness Study (GRADE ) Researchers at the Naomi Berrie Diabetes Center at Columbia University Medical Center continue to recruit for a study that is trying to determine the most effective ways to achieve and maintain long-term control of type 2 diabetes. The Naomi Berrie Diabetes Center is one of nearly 50 medical centers across the country participating in GRADE – Glycemia Reduction Approaches in Diabetes: A Comparative Effectiveness Study – which is aiming to enroll 5,000 type 2 diabetic patients nationwide. GRADE will directly compare the four most commonly used types of glucoselowering medications, in addition to metformin. Not a large time commitment, the GRADE study requires 4 visits a year where patients come in for diabetes education, nutrition counseling, blood work and to receive diabetes medication. In the words of Patricia Kringas, RN, MA, CDE and lead study

coordinator for the study, “We coordinate diabetes care and keep people on track at quarterly visits, where we follow subject’s A1C levels and other parameters of diabetes control. When you have a diabetes team that is working with you—when you have this amount of support—chances are you’re going to do better managing your diabetes overall, just by virtue of being in a study.” If you or someone you know is interested in participating in the GRADE Study at the Naomi Berrie Diabetes Center please contact Camille Hausheer, cvh2110@ columbia.edu, 212-851-5414. For more infor mation visit : https://grade.bsc.gwu.edu/

–ADVERTORIAL–

Medicare is a privilege an individual is entitled to receive upon reaching the age of 65 or upon being certiﬁed disabled, providing they have worked for at least 10 years and contributed into the Social Security System. Medicaid is for the poor or impoverished; therefore, eligibility is based upon income and resources levels. Meeting the eligibility requirements will secure Medicaid eligibility.

What is Medicaid medical assistance? Medicaid is a joint federal and state funded program, run by the state and local counties, providing medical insurance, home-care services (assisting with all activities of daily living) and nursing home medical assistance to the poor, elderly or disabled. However, individuals requiring homecare services or nursing home medical assistance, in addition to ﬁnancial requirements, also will need have a medical need for these services.

Who can apply for Medicaid? Medicaid is for anyone who meets the income and resources restrictions.

What services does Medicaid provide? • Doctors • Hospitals • Prescriptions • Nursing Homes (room & board)

• Home-care Services, such as home attendants, home health aides and nurses

What is an MLTC? MLTC stands for Managed Long-Term Care. One example: When an applicant has been approved for Medicaid home-care services, the applicant has to choose one MLTC from several approved Medicaid plans. Upon joining an MLTC a coordinator will be assigned and this coordinator will be the point person between the applicant/recipient and the MLTC.

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, March 23, 2017 Page 14

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Senior Living Guide

Not in rocking chairs on the porch anymore by Michael Gannon Editor

n financially strapped times, community organizations are looking for more and more volunteers — a situation that works out nicely for the legions of senior citizens in Queens looking to help. Ask Bob Holden, president of the Juniper Park Civic Association in Middle Village, who said activities with the civic and inside Juniper Valley Park seem to be a natural match with the area’s more mature residents. “Senior volunteers work on our membership enrollment, open our mail, contribute to the ‘Juniper Berry,’” the civic’s magazine, Holden said. “In the park they plant all kinds of flowers and weed it, keeping it looking nice ... They even clean up.” He said the park’s attraction for everything from family picnics to the choice of wedding photographers is due in no small part to area retirees who just care about their community. One example was the late Pete Polonski, who was Juniper Valley’s unofficial park warden for the hours he put in over decades planting flowers, manicuring flower beds and volunteering at the tennis courts until he was in his 90s. He passed away in December. The type of volunteer work seniors do in Queens runs the gamut. Debra Hoffer, director of field operations for Catholic Charities of Brooklyn and Queens, said the group relies on a great many senior volunteers at its Howard Beach Senior Center. “At Howard Beach, senior volunteers are essential,” Hoffer said. “We have about 80 who do a variety of things, like being trip leaders, escorting members to museums and parks and event coordinators.” Others at the center help with serving meals or running recreational activities. But they also give of themselves in a way that can be far more valuable than serving a meal or assisting with crocheting or karaoke classes: through a program in which their volunteers visit homebound seniors. Hoffer said it’s good for recipients and

Lorraine Sciulli, John Killcommons, far right, and other senior volunteers with the Juniper Park PHOTO COURTESY JPCA Civic Association at a cleanup on 57th Avenue. volunteers alike. “People who are isolated can be depressed and frail. Their mortality rates rise.” Hoffer said the volunteers for the visitation program generally tend to be retirees themselves. Daphne Yun, a spokeswoman for the U.S. National Parks Service, said programs in and around the Gateway National Recreation Area’s Jamaica Bay sector also counts on numerous seniors among its volunteers, who can be connected with the great outdoors whether they work outside or not. “We have many retirees who volunteer at Gateway — especially at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center in Queens, and also at the Historic Aircraft Restoration Project, or HARP, at Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn,” Yun told the Chronicle in an email. “Many of our volunteers at the JBWR are birders, and enjoy sharing their knowledge

Choosing a rehab facility continued from page 6

first thing that people judge. Does it look homelike, clean; how does it smell? Is the staff interacting with the patients? Do the patients look well cared for? You have to go with your gut.” According to Weinman, it is most important to talk to the rehabilitation staff in order to get a sense that there will be an individualized treatment plan. “Find out how often and how long they will be receiving therapy,” she advised. It is also recommended to find

out if a facility is accredited. In the United States, rehabilitation facilities are accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations. In addition, it is important to find out if a facility’s medical staff is board-certified and available to patients 24 hours a day, and who would be developing a treatment plan. Since patients oftentimes need to continue rehabilitation even after being discharged from a facility, inquire as to whether a particular center offers outpatient

with our visitors,” Yun added. “They are often the first face that our visitors see as they often are at the information desk. The volunteers at the JBWR are invaluable, as it gives other staff time to develop programs and give programs for the public.” Yun said the HARP program restores and maintains a wide variety of aircraft and gives visitors the chance to get close up to and inside of the vintage planes. “There are 33 volunteers who participate in this program and they average around 10,000 hours a year,” she said. Holden said aside from the obvious contributions of seniors — “I have one here now to help distribute the Juniper Berry,” he said — there are some benefits that only senior volunteers can provide. “We have the Juniper Juniors, kids who do volunteer work, and the seniors are very supportive of them,” he said The historical element Yun wrote of with

services. Those are recommended for patients whose conditions are no longer acute and who are able to travel to the particular outpatient site. Sometimes outpatient rehabilitation is combined with homecare services, which can help patients learn to safely use a cane, walker, crutches or wheelchair; to get in and out of a chair or bed without help; to move safely around the house; and to go up and down stairs if they can’t be avoided. Physical, occupational and other therapies are all available at home. Such rehabilitation services are usually offered a few times each week. For many at-home

the restored airplanes is one Holden also says can be unappreciated. For example, he said that many of the articles in the “Berry” combine to form a treasure trove of area history. “People like John Killcommons write a lot of articles,” Holden said. “Their information on the neighborhood is very valuable, information you can’t find on some history websites. Their stories fill a void.” He recalled how Gene Polgar, who owned a TV repair shop in the neighborhood for years, was a longtime columnist. “Now his son writes it,” Holden said. “We also have a big following out of state, people who moved away and write telling us their stories, their personal memories.” Another example came when he recently published a photo of his mother preparing to attend a birthday party as a teenager, with references that people who live in the area still know. “She’s lived in this neighborhood for 93 years,” Holden added. Seniors or anyone else looking to volunteer with the Juniper Park Civic Association can call (718) 651-5865, or contact the group online at letters@junipercivic.com. Those whose interest would run more toward Gateway National Recreation Area can check online at nps.gov/gate/get involved/ volunteer.htm, or nps.gov/gate/get involved/ supportyourpark/the-angels-of-harp.htm to get involved. Catholic Charities of Brooklyn and Queens can be reached at bplusq.org/volunteer/ index.php. And those are just three of the countless volunteer opportunities open to seniors in Queens. The city Department for the Aging also lists more than a dozen volunteer program opportunities including foster grandparent programs, assisting other seniors, mentoring and tutoring opportunities, job training and even opportunities with arts organizations on its website at nyc.gov/html/dfta/html/ Q volunteering/volunteer.shtml.

patients, self-motivation is vital for a successful outcome. But even f inding the right home therapists can prove challenging. One patient, longtime Bayside resident Naomi, who now lives on Long Island and wished to be identified only by her first name, found this out the hard way. Following hip replacement surgery, Naomi was discharged to her home, a move which led to “mixed experiences with the physical therapist.” The first one assigned to her case came late the first day and remained for only 30 minutes. “This didn’t measure up well,” Naomi said. “She comes the next day. She’s

in the house 20 minutes. It was like she was phoning it in. We were fit to be tied,” she said. After speaking with a supervisor, Naomi was assigned a different therapist. “She was so much better,” Naomi said. Naomi’s advice is to find out in advance what services the visiting therapists are expected to provide, how many visits you’re entitled to and how long each should last. A major factor to consider when opting for home-care services is the support system available at home, Naomi cautioned. And, she warned, be prepared to do a lot of work on your own for Q maximum success.

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Parker Jewish Institute has expanded its community-based outpatient services, the company announced on Feb. 21. The institute has expanded its health care services to include a more robust community network with several new initiatives. These initiatives bring outpatient services deeper into the communities of Queens and Nassau County— and beyond the walls of Parker’s New Hyde Park health care center, which is located on the border between Nassau and Queens and has been developing programs for older adults for more than 100 years. Among the new initiatives in the expanded community network is the Home Health Care Agency, which is focused on providing home-based, shortterm care for older adults. The agency is licensed to operate in seven New York metro area counties and allows older adults to receive important medical treatments—as ordered by a physician— without leaving their homes. Similarly, a new initiative known as Parker At Your Door allows physicians to make home visits to older adults. This past September, Parker opened the new Parker on Madison adult day care center, which serves the Nassau County town of Hempstead and several surrounding towns and provides social adult day care services for seniors living at home. Geared toward frail older adults with early onset dementia or Alzheimer’s, Parker’s adult day care services help seniors receive social interaction while relieving overburdened caregivers. Parker has also been deploying registered nurses at several Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities (NORCs) in order to encourage health and wellness among these communities’ elderly residents. The ultimate goal is to help

residents remain healthy, so that they may remain independent in their homes for as long as possible. The Parker Institute hospice program is also part of the Parker Institute’s expanded community network, offering specialized care for terminally ill patients as well as family support. The hospice program, similar to the Home Health Care Agency or Parker At Your Door, can provide care at home or at Parker Jewish Institute and other contracted nursing facilities. Parker also employs the Lakeville Transportation Ambulette, which transports kidney dialysis patients to medical appointments, the adult day care program or other nursing facilities. As part of the expanded community network, Parker has also installed tracking devices on each ambulette, so the dispatcher can communicate with drivers in the event of an accident. Also for kidney dialysis patients, the Queens-Long Island Renal Institute, Parker’s sister institute for the past seven years, provides older adults living in the surrounding communities with kidney dialysis services. Last, in 2016, Parker Affiliate AgeWell New York, worked with more than 10,000 older adults and their families to coordinate their care. AgeWell allows older adults with disabilities and persons with chronic illnesses to stay in their homes as long as possible. It pays for a person’s health and longterm care services with an emphasis on flexibility and choice in the selection of necessary care. AgeWell is a Medicaid Managed Long-Term Care Plan and a Medicare Advantage Plan authorized by New York State. For more information on Parker’s community-based services, call 1-877-727-5373.

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continued from page 10 problems make it difficult see the products they’re buying. “And so, we always suggest options for our patients: delivery from a store, asking a family to help them,” she said. As the young old become the elderly, they often take a few bites and say they feel full. “That’s a normal physiological response in the elderly,” Valdez said. Liquids don’t trigger the “full” signal to the brain as easily, Valdez said, so he recommends trying nutrient-packed smoothies, yogurt and even more solid foods that are easy to eat in pieces, such as fruit and other finger foods. Another factor is that an older person in a long-term care facility or the hospital might under-eat if presented with unfamiliar food. Sporri said that facilities in Queens are quite aware of ethnic food preferences and try to find out if patients’ appetites could improve if they were served familiar food of their preferred cuisine. “Sometimes, it’s the missing piece of the puzzle,” Sporri said. In food preparation at home, it’s important to be aware of salt and other additives that can be problems for many seniors, and of nutritional needs related to health conditions such as high cholesterol. Jonathan Valdez, a registered dietitian nutritionist who works in a senior daycare setting, said it’s also important to focus on

potential interactions between foods and any prescribed medicines. Anyone over 50 is at risk of problems with a substance called intrinsic factor, also known as gastric intrinsic factor, which helps the body to absorb vitamin B12. “That’s a problem as we get older. It doesn’t work very well,” Valdez said. Those who have reached the half-century mark should ask their doctor about monitoring vitamin B12 levels and either taking a vitamin supplement or getting B12 injections. The same population needs to start eating a perhaps surprising amount of protein to help prevent falls by maintaining lean muscle mass: about 25 or 30 grams at every meal, Valdez said. Another common problem for the general American population that’s exacerbated both by age and by living in New York City is a deficiency of vitamin D. Low vitamin D, as well as low calcium, can both contribute to conditions that lead to falls, he said. Also, the risk factor for type 2 diabetes increases for those entering their 60s, Sporri said, so it’s important to make sure your doctor monitors your blood sugar. “If it starts creeping up, don’t ignore it,” Sporri said. If you are diagnosed as prediabetic, take action early and cut sugars down to the recommended levels, she said. The risk is particularly great for African Americans, those who are obese and those who have hypertension. Q

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Protect Your Home & Assets From Nursing Home Bills At Silvagni and Como, our attorneys have extensive experience in a broad range of legal matters. Our practice areas include Elder Law, Medicaid applications: Home Care and Nursing Homes, Estate Planning: Wills and Trusts, Powers of Attorney, Estate Administration and Probate, Contested Wills and Estate Litigation, Real Estate. We combine our experience with a sensitive and patient approach to our client’s needs. Our strategy is to listen to our clients and then use our knowledge to help develop a plan to achieve their goals. We have multiple offices and serve clients throughout the five boroughs of New York City and Long Island. We are committed to helping our clients in a wide array of legal situations, with an emphasis on our extensive experience in the areas of Elder Law and Estate Planning. If you or a loved one is elderly and in a nursing home or in need of Home Care Services, we can help develop a plan to preserve your life savings while assisting you in navigating New York’s complicated Medicaid process. If you are middle aged, we can help develop

The Silvercrest Center: A rich resource right in your neighborhood The Silvercrest Center is a place to get stronger. Whether you or your loved one consider Silvercrest for inpatient rehabilitation, outpatient rehabilitation or long-term care, their interdisciplinary team considers the patient as a whole person and strategizes the best way for that person to rehabilitate. Silvercrest offers several areas of special expertise, including in physical and occupational therapy, speech and swallowing therapy, ventilator-dependent care and pulmonary rehabilitation, wound care, caring for patients with complex medical needs, and respite care. Their healthcare specialists are leaders in their fields and bring their learning and experience to your case, resulting in the best possible outcome.

Silvercrest offers a breadth of clinical services, including: accommodating feeding tubes; high-flow oxygen, continuous flow bypass and portable ventilators; a renowned ventilator-weaning protocol; IV therapies; complex wound care and hyperbaric oxygen therapy; on-site PICC placement and management; and palliative, hospice and comfort care. On the outpatient side, Silvercrest stands apart from the competition with customized rehabilitation plans, consistent therapeutic care from distinguished therapists, transitional care from facility to home to outpatient, and one-on-one sessions.

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hether it is an elderly parent the gap in all these scenarios. in declining health, a relaCDPAP, an acronym for tive with a chronic condition or consumer directed personal anyone who is in need of home assistant program, is a program healthcare assistance, caring for designed for patients that are selfa loved one at home is often the directing and want to hire their best course of action, but can own caregiver or caregivers. The prove to be a confusing, complex most common personal assistant and costly process. In is a family member addition, one obstacle who lives close by or that often comes up is a family friend whom that a patient, or their the patient is comfortfamily, is uncomfortable with. There are able with a stranger some exclusions of in their homes taking whom the caregiver care of their loved ones. 150 Beach 9th Street, can be so it’s imporThis uncomfortable Far Rockaway, NY tant to call us and feeling can come 516-239-8693 from a cultural divide 2509 East Tremont Avenue confirm before vetting your caregiver. As an leading to a commuBronx, NY added benefit, this 718-488-8570 nication breakdown or something as basic www.RockawayHC.com program comes at no cost to the patient and as religious dietary laws. In cases such as these, a we at Rockaway Home Care will family member, friend or loved pay the caregiver at a very comone will make an emotional and petitive pay rate. We offer benefits financial sacrifice by taking care to the PA who qualify. Call us toof the patient. While a noble act, it day at 516-303-7701 for a free conoften leaves the caretaker in a sultation to help keep your care in bind about how to support them- home with the people you know selves. Thankfully CDPAP can fill and trust. ©2017 M1P • ROCH-071446

he death of a celebrity has throngs of the curious and fans emotionally involved in a life only seen at a distance and through filters. Regardless of our personal thoughts about Michael Jackson or Walter Cronkite their passing was a family loss. Friends of a lifetime shed tears with those left behind. The differences between celebrity and the man-on-the street deaths are little to the families we serve. The insecurity and fear are palpable. Hushed conversations invade our facilities. We are relied upon to ensure the wishes of the deceased and the family these realized. The trust that is handed to us mostly by strangers empowers us creating obligations and responsibilities rarely offered. In place of hordes of grief-stricken strangers seeking recognition of a life now passed, our profession demands we can acknowledge the identity of the deceased. Representing the family we seek to honor the deceased in memories and stories that proved by reflection and comfort. We are family historians. We are judged and create lifelong relationships by our success in fulfilling the wishes of others. Though we

constantly stand in the shoes of the families we serve, calloused responses never define us. Each life brought to us becomes part of our own. As others bring a new life into the world, our profession comforts those who have a life that has departed. When we serve families of ordinary people rather than the famous we replaced the crowds. By doing so our obligation is harder for we are place throngs through our individual participation. In the end it is the families that will determine whether we have served our purpose. Instead of public fanfare we realize our true purpose by a grateful handshake and a heartfelt thank-you. St. Michael’s Cemetery is located at 72-02 Astoria Blvd., East Elmhurst. For further information call (718) 278-3240.

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And, while The Silvercrest Center is primarily a place to rehabilitate, their long-term-care services provide an alternative to those whose Inpatients are cared for by an interdisciplin- complex and chronic healthcare needs make ary team of exceptionally trained staff, super- independent living no longer an option. vised by an on-site, board-certified physician, all within a bright, comfortable facility in Contact Silvercrest today to learn more about Briarwood. The 24/7 skilled nursing how their many services can help you or your staff consists of 80 percent RNs with 90 loved one (inpatient: 718-480-4007; percent of those holding a bachelor of outpatient/transitional, 718-906-9999; science in nursing. www.silvercrest.org).

an Estate Plan to preserve your assets and minimize taxes, including estate, gift and income taxes, while helping to ensure that your ultimate wishes are carried out after you pass away. If you are a young adult or parent, we can develop an Estate Plan to protect your family and minor children. We offer a free initial consultation to all of our clients and we can arrange for out of office visits to your home or facility. Call us at 718-928-3355 to arrange your free consult. Giovanni Silvagni the founding partner of the Firm, was born and raised in Queens, New York. After receiving his bachelor’s degree from St. John’s University in 1995, he continued his education at St. John’s School of Law. He has been serving the Queens and Brooklyn area for over 16 years, practicing in the area of elder law. Ida Como, another partner of the firm, graduated with honors from St. John’s University in Queens. She then went on to Hofstra University School of Law. She has also been practicing elder law in the community for over five years.

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argaret Tietz Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, is a healthcare facility unlike any other: Bustling with activity, its optimistic environment envelops you with warmth the moment you step in. A not-for-profit facility, Margaret Tietz prides itself in the myriad of specialized programs offered through grant funding. All resident care units have computers for their use with Wi-Fi. While some residents skype, others have established email addresses and now communicate with family and friends. Massage Therapy, provided 1-to-1 on a weekly basis, is offered in collaboration with Tender Touch for All, undoubtedly improving the quality of life of the residents by enhancing their physical, mental and emotional well-being. To the delight of our residents, Spa day with aromatherapy is offered in conjunction once a month. The Yoga classes for long-term residents is a favorite: easily adaptable to various levels, it can be of great benefit for body, mind and soul. Margaret Tietz also initiated a Therapeutic Clowning Program by Lev Leytzan’s Elder Hearts that provides individual and group therapeutic clowning twice a month. Compassionate and empathetic, the therapeutic clowns provide meaningful, loving interactions, essential to residents who

have experienced trauma and loss, especially those among our residents who are Holocaust Survivors and have a diagnosis of Dementia. Music therapy includes an iPod program that tailors music choices to each resident. The individualized music program provides the opportunity for the staff to have a heightened awareness to individual preferences by their choice in music. Additionally, a music therapist provides daily group and individual music therapy. The Creative Art Therapy Program provides individual art therapy sessions to residents who can benefit from nonverbal creative expression. Additionally, individual art therapy sessions are provided to nine residents weekly, provided by an Art Therapist. Fortunate to feature the Geri-Psych Program under the supervision of Dr. Gary Kennedy and Dr. Rubina Malik, the doctors meet twice a month at Margaret Tietz Center to train Geriatric Psych fellows for purposes of behavioral management, psychosocial interventions, medication review and recommendations for continued plans of care. This prestigious program, in its 25th year, has trained 60 fellows from the Montefiore Medical Center and the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and has been of significant value for the many patients and staff assisted at the Margaret Tietz Center.

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The Chapin Home Adult Day Healthcare Center provides comprehensive, creative, and specialized services to enable the older individual to remain in the community while providing respite for caregivers. Chapin’s goal is to help individuals in our community who have physical, mental or emotional limitations in order to improve or maintain their level of functioning while remaining at home.

hot meals are provided under the direction of a registered dietitian. Registrants enjoy many fun activities, trips, parties and much more. Chapin Home Adult Day Healthcare Center fosters a strong commitment to community caregivers. Chapin is available for respite and support, coordination of medical duties, help with the pressures of consuming responsibilities and contact supervision of their loved one. Chapin understands the challenges that face the caregiver. Chapin professional staff are available to assist with questions and to provide support.

Chapin Home Adult Day Care promotes maximum independence and prevents functional deterioration daily in a social and safe environment. In order to delay or avoid long-term Chapin Home Adult Day placement Chapin provides soHealthcare Center’s office hours cialization, support and respite are Monday through Friday from for families and caregivers while 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Door to providing daily therapeutic rec165-01 Chapin Parkway door transportation is provided reation activities that stimulate and arranged by staff members. Jamaica, NY 11432 cognitive and physical functionThe cost of care is provided by 718-739-2523 ing. Registrants have access to traditional Medicaid, private Fax: 718-291-0989 nursing staff for their medical pay and increasing as a covered needs as well as program aides services under MMLTC’s conwho assist with their activities of daily living. tracts. Presently Chapin has registrants from A social worker specializing in geriatric care WellCare, VNS, Fidelis, Aetna/Better Health, is also available daily to registrants and their HealthFirst, Metro Plus, and Guildnet. Please caregivers. All registrants are evaluated and check to see if your insurance has joined have access to physical therapy, occupational Chapin. Please contact Chapin for more intherapy and speech therapy as needed. Daily formation or to arrange a tour of the facility.

Page 19 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, March 23, 2017

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, March 23, 2017 Page 20

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