Sun Health LiveWell

YOUR DIABETES EDUCATION & TR AINING IS COVERED BY MEDICARE PART B - PAGE 17

Celebrating Your Health & Lifestyle

February 2017

The Sun Health Way

Finding Love at Home

Two stories of love after loss at The Colonnade

Excellence in Innovation

Sun Health at Home wins WESTMARC Best of the West Award

LOOK INSIDE:

Healthy U page 20

Keeping Heart Healthy Information you can 'take to heart' during Heart Month

Committed To Care For our community friends

Future Progressive Care Unit at Banner Del E. Webb meets a community need

Welcome to LiveWell A magazine produced specifically for you

O

ur LiveWell team is always on the lookout for interesting stories about our residents, our programs and our staff. In this longer issue of the magazine, you will discover all of that and more.

First, we are excited to share expanded coverage of the plans at Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center to convert a 22,952-square-foot space into a 28-bed, all-private unit for patients needing progressive care for conditions such as congestive heart failure, renal disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes and a variety of other health issues.

Next, you will meet two extraordinary couples from The Colonnade. Barbara O’Donnell and Bob Scriver’s love story started Sun Health at Home with a casual visit to the recently won an nearby dog park, while Ava Excellence in Innovation Carter's and Bob Wells’ Award at the annual relationship developed over WESTMARC Best of the time. Both are delightful West Awards tales of finding love after loss.

I am also excited to share with you information about Masterpiece Living® at Sun Health Senior Living’s Life Care communities. Through Masterpiece Living®, we promote active senior living along with healthy and successful aging.

For members of our community who prefer to age at home, our innovative continuing care at home program, Sun Health at Home, is celebrating its first anniversary — and gaining attention. The only program of its kind in the state of Arizona, Sun Health at Home recently won an Excellence in Innovation Award at the annual WESTMARC Best of the West Awards.

This growing program also warmly welcomed its new executive director, Barbara Mason. I encourage you to read our Q&A with her to learn more about her background and philosophy.

As you’re reading, be sure to check out our story on congestive heart failure. It’s one of the more common health issues among older adults, so it’s wise to study up on the condition and learn the tips for prevention.

Rounding out this issue, you’ll find a story about Sun Health employees preparing for the upcoming Sun Health Arizona Marathon on Feb. 19.

Thank you for taking the time to read this issue of LiveWell. As always, please let us know what you would like to see more of in future editions. You can contact us at information@sunhealth.org to ask a question or share your thoughts.

Stay Healthy,

Sun Health Mission Statement: Ron Guziak President & CEO, Sun Health

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• The Sun Health Way

Sun Health champions healthy living, research and superior health care.

Inside

SENIOR LIVING

LiveWell

February 2017, Issue 18 SUN HEALTH 14719 W. Grand Avenue Surprise, AZ 85374 623.832.5350 information@sunhealth.org sunhealth.org SUN HEALTH FOUNDATION 623.832.5330 sunhealthfoundation.org SUN HEALTH SENIOR LIVING sunhealthseniorliving.org Jackie Lusson Corp Dir. of Sales 623-236-3767 randview Terrace G Bhakti Gosalia, Exec. Dir. 623.975.8014 L a Loma Village Susan Davis, Exec. Dir. 623.537.7521 T he Colonnade Barbara Foster, Exec. Dir. 623.236.3770 SUN HEALTH at HOME 623.227.HOME (4663) sunhealthathome.org CENTER FOR HEALTH & WELLBEING 623.832.WELL (9355) sunhealthwellbeing.org

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Barbara O'Donnell and Bob Scriver (L) and Ava and Bob Carter (R), found love at The Colonnade

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High Quality Care in Sun City West

Working together to build new progressive care unit at Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center

10-13 Finding Love at Home

Two stories of comfort, support and love

Sun Health at Home scores WESTMARC

Award for Innovation; adds new executive director

Joe La Rue, Exec. VP

17

Diabetes Education & Training Benefit

Sharon Grambow, Exec. VP and COO Sun Health Senior Living

18-19 Keeping Heart Healthy

SUN HEALTH LEADERSHIP Ronald Guziak, President and CEO Bill Sellner, Exec. VP and CFO

Jennifer Drago, Exec. VP-Population Health Sharon Thornton, E xec. VP and Chief Philanthropy Officer Ron Austerlade, Chief Marketing Officer

SUN HEALTH MARKETING Ken Reinstein, Marketing Dir. John Tucker, Public Relations Jennifer Alexander, Design Danielle Kuskowski, Programs

Meet Barbara Mason Sun Health at Home's new executive director

14-16 The Best of the West

Medicare, other insurers cover diabetes education/training

Information about congestive heart failure, and why men and women really are different in matters of the heart

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Healthy U

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Healthy U Calendar

Sun Health Community Education class listings, events & activities

Mary Smith, RN

8

16

February classes & events at a glance

Please follow us on:

This Month's Recipe

CREATED FOR SUN HEALTH

On the Cover: Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center & Sun Health Foundation Leadership on fifth floor, D tower

February 2017 • sunhealth.org

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SUN HEALTH FOUNDATION

Committed to

Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center CEO Debbie Flores

Care

New Progressive Care Unit to offer private rooms, new technology By John Tucker

C

onstruction crews are a common sight on medical center campuses across the country as health care organizations expand and remodel to meet evolving needs.

Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center in Sun City West is certainly part of this trend.

With support from the community through Sun Health Foundation, the medical center is converting 22,952 square feet of shelled space on the fifth floor of its “D” tower into a unit with 28 private rooms for progressive care patients.

“The unit will serve patients with a variety of conditions, including congestive heart failure, renal disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes and a variety of other illnesses and diagnoses,” Chief Nursing Officer Nancy Adamson says.

Progressive care units serve as a stepping stone for patients who are

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• The Sun Health Way

sure n e d e s ai s unds rs have accesre, f e h T " it y ca ll of u that a ighest qualn't think h to the o home. I catment." close tbetter inves of a well enough to leave the intensive care unit, but who still need closer monitoring than what is available on a typical medical/surgical unit.

Banner Del E. Webb has two progressive care units, which often operate at capacity in the fall and winter months when the local population swells with winter visitors. The new progressive care unit will help alleviate that bed crunch and the 28 private rooms will bring the hospital closer to its goal of having all private rooms throughout the medical center.

Sun Health and Banner Health have committed $5.9 million to the $10.9 million project with Sun Health Foundation challenging the community to help raise the remaining $5 million.

“Community support has played a major role in Banner Del E. Webb’s success over the years,” Sun Health President and CEO Ron Guziak says. “We believe local residents will get behind this project once they learn why it’s being built and how it can benefit their family members, neighbors or even themselves.”

It’s a familiar storyline.

The community medical center opened in 1988 with strong backing from donors to Sun Health Foundation, which continues to provide philanthropic support to the medical center as well as to Banner Boswell Medical Center and Banner Sun Health Research Institute. Virtually all capital improvements in Banner Del E. Webb’s history have benefited from community philanthropy.

“The longstanding partnership between Banner and Sun Health has benefited this community many times over and we are so

For more information, visit sunhealthfoundation.org/progress (There is a great video about the project.)

or call 623-832-5330

Sun Health Foundation is the exclusive fundraising organization for both Banner Del E. Webb and Banner Boswell medical centers.

ALLEN BUTLER

pleased to partner again on this particular project,” says Rob Gould, president of Banner Health's Arizona West Region.

Sun Health Foundation Board Chair Jerry Solomon agrees.

“Community support makes the difference. The funds raised ensure that all of us have access to the highest quality care, close to home.

I can’t think of a better investment.”

In addition to the private rooms and new technology, the unit will house a central telemetry monitoring room where technicians can continually monitor the vital signs and heart rhythms of patients on the new unit and on other units in the hospital.

Other amenities include spacious and comfortable family waiting areas, a conference room and a private consultation room for clinicians to meet with families.

The new unit is expected to open to patients by fall 2017.

Once completed, the nonprofit hospital will see its bed count grow to 394 licensed beds.

Above: Former shelled space at Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center will open as a new progressive care unit later this year.

Below: Community members attended an open house announcing the project in October.

February 2017 • sunhealth.org

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SUN HEALTH FOUNDATION

A mock-up of a patient room was created for the community open house

on 5D

L

eaders from Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center surveyed hundreds of staff members, including nurses and physicians, to get feedback on how to build a better progressive care unit on the fifth floor, D tower.

“We wanted their ideas on how to improve the patient experience, privacy, efficiency and overall quality of care,” says Mary Smith, R.N., director of Progressive Care Services, which includes two existing units in the medical center.

The new progressive care unit will incorporate several features suggested by staff to improve workflow and patient and family satisfaction. Here’s a short list.

• Each room features windows with scenic views.

• Artwork will feature peaceful Arizona nature scenes.

• Corridor lighting will be on the walls, versus the ceilings. No harsh lights will shine in patients’ eyes.

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•

• •

• • • • •

Bathroom walls will be angled versus square, making it easier to maneuver wheelchairs and walkers.

Bathrooms will have sliding doors with frosted glass. Showers will be large and easy to access.

The central telemetry room will be larger than existing rooms and feature an exterior window, and a break area with a sink and microwave — all new amenities.

Staff will be able to do patient testing on the unit.

Extra staff and visitor bathrooms will be added.

Each patient bed will be loaded with high-tech features to improve comfort and foster healing.

The unit will have two medication rooms and two nourishment rooms.

Linen cabinets will be spaced throughout the unit for convenient staff access.

ALLEN BUTLER

Fu nc tional Comfor t

Sun Heal th Founda tion - Fund ed

Capital Projects ($1 million or more)

a t Ba nne r Del E . We bb Medic al Ce nte r since 20 0 9 Cath Lab Replacement, 2009 $1.6 million

Cath/Endovascular Lab, 2011 $6.3 million

Endoscopy Department Move/Renovation, 2012 $4.6 million

Spine Program Equipment, 2013 (O-Arm Fluoro Unit, Jackson Table, Microscope)

Interventional Radiology Suites Relocation, 2014 $2.1 million

Behavioral Health Expansion, 2014 $3.7 million

Replace Emergency Department CT, 2015 $1.2 million

$2 million

Improved Main Entrance and Related Moves, 2013 $1.9 million

Inpatient Pharmacy Relocation/Expansion, 2014 $3.2 million

MAKOplasty Robot, 2014 $1.1 million

February 2017 • sunhealth.org

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SUN HEALTH FOUNDATION

for Recovering Patients

By Gretchen Pahia

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ALLEN BUTLER

B

anner Del E. Webb Medical Center is making big changes aimed at improving patient care by building a truly functional working environment for medical staff that will greatly improve the patient and visitor experience.

Construction is underway on the progressive care unit located in the medical center’s D tower, where patients with serious and complicated conditions can receive better monitoring. This new unit, which is scheduled to open by fall, will offer 28 private beds – something the community has truly wanted.

“Our patients were telling us that they wanted private rooms,” says Director of Progressive Care Services Mary Smith, RN. “Our patients deserve to be treated with dignity and made to feel special in their times of illness.”

Mary is excited about the new endeavor. “I was asked to join this unit the first week I joined Banner Del E. Webb,” she says. “I have never been involved in a project like this.”

She adds, “We had a vision of what we needed. I was fortunate enough to be included in the process.

We looked at the Banner template and were able to make changes to positively impact how we deliver patient care, as well as save money by not doing some of the things we did in the past.”

The team looked at this from the perspective of the caregivers’ needs with a focus on patient and visitor comfort. The private rooms will allow doctors, patients and their families the ability to discuss critical patient care in a private environment.

“Nurses care for people every day; it is what they do and it is what is in their hearts, so by making their jobs easier, we are helping our patients heal,” she says. “We want to build these relationships so patients know their nurses and medical staff care about them and also care about working at Banner Del E. Webb.”

Robert Gould, president of Banner Health's Arizona West Region, says, “This project is going to allow us to grow where we know the community is growing. It will allow us to focus on services here at Banner Del E. Webb and we simply couldn’t do that without growing the number of beds and expanding other specialties that this community is going to need.”

Mary says the staff is excited about the new unit. “I recently took a book with all the finishes and fabrics around to the units and stayed until 3 a.m. to meet with all shifts. They are all asking if they can come work in this new unit.”

The medical center’s monitor technicians will be the first to move up to the unit and they will have a

For more information, visit sunhealthfoundation.org/progress (There is a great video about the project.)

or call 623-832-5330

Director of Progressive Care Services Mary Smith, R.N., at Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center

beautiful office with a window. It’s a much better environment for the team tasked with watching people on heart monitors on 12-hour shifts.

“They have a tough job,” Mary says. “They have to watch patients’ monitors, call nurses, and call codes.

Giving them a better place to do their job is very exciting.”

Once fully operational, the unit will include: • 28 private rooms • Two Central Information Stations (nursing stations) • A desk outside of each room with a private alcove where the nurse, who cares for that patient, can sit.

• Eight nurses, four CNAs and a health unit coordinator, who will

keep the unit operating smoothly and efficiently.

• At any one one time – two or three doctors will be on the floor working from the Central Information Stations or alcoves • A full-time pharmacist on the floor to provide medication to patients.

February 2017 • sunhealth.org

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SENIOR LIVING

Barbara & Bob

Destined for love, again Two friends bond over their grief, find hope and develop a fairy-tale romance

By Meghann Finn Sepulveda

Unexpected Love Stories

Every February across the United States and around the world, candy, flowers and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine.

And, this year, for two couples at The Colonnade, Valentine’s Day has special meaning. After losing their spouses, they developed new relationships that turned from friendship for comfort and support to newly found love.

Ava Carter and Bob Wells shared an interest in aviation and in the past year they saw their relationship “take off.”

Barbara O’Donnell and Bob Scriver were brought together with common interests in their home state of Michigan, their love of travel and their dogs.

Y

ou can say that it was meant to be for Barbara O’Donnell and Bob Scriver. The Colonnade residents were not looking for love when their relationship began in 2015. Both had recently lost their spouses of more than 50 years and were adjusting to their new life. A casual visit to the nearby dog park sparked a friendship and a bond that quickly turned into their love story.

Similar backgrounds

Regular visits to the dog park with her Bichon Frise, Ziggy, helped Barbara open up to Bob about the loss of her husband, who had recently passed away from cancer. Bob, a former aerospace and computer design engineer, also spent time at the same dog park with Maxx, a West Highland White Terrier. Bob had lost his wife the prior year and struggled with feelings of grief and loneliness before he also

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sold his Sun City Grand home and moved into The Colonnade.

After a short amount of time, the two discovered they had a lot in common – including their love for dogs – and conversations felt natural and easy.

“He was very understanding,” says Barbara. “He saved me from going through the same thing he had gone through and helped make that time in my life all right.”

In addition to bonding over their grief, Barbara and Bob, both in their 80s, learned each called Michigan home,

For more information about Sun Health Senior Living and The Colonnade, go to sunhealthseniorliving.org or call 623-236-3767.

Mastering the were proud grandparents and liked to travel.

“We had wonderful marriages and families,” Barbara says.

“We were able to share those happy memories together.”

Spending more time together

Trips to the dog park led to walks around the neighborhood with Ziggy and Maxx, who the couple says, played a large part in their blossoming relationship.

“They used to cross leashes,” Barbara says with a laugh. “It seemed like they wanted to bring us together.”

They did.

“After walking the dogs one day, Barbara said, ‘Could I have a hug?’” says Bob. “It was really nice.”

Those walks eventually turned into dinners and outings to the movies.

Their friendship quickly developed into something more, but it wasn’t until Bob’s 80th birthday celebration in May that the couple had their first “official” date and realized they were falling in love.

“It happened very fast,” Barbara says. “It surprised us both.”

Soon after, Bob offered Barbara a key to his casita, which was located on the next block, and asked if she would move in.

“I didn’t accept it at first, but it got me thinking,” she says.

A few weeks later Bob asked again, but this time he presented the key in a nice box which was wrapped in a bow.

“It was very romantic,” Barbara says. “We both knew it was right.”

She said, “Yes.”

A second life

ALLEN BUTLER

It didn’t take long for Bob and Barbara, a retired school teacher and antique shop owner, to combine their households and start a new life together.

Today, the couple enjoys spending their days at home and doing the things they love such as watching sports, playing cards, going to church and getting together for brunch with friends.

When they’re not together, Bob is usually volunteering at the Arizona Challenger Space Center in Peoria or admiring his 1963 Thunderbird convertible. Barbara spends her free time sharpening her putting skills on the golf course.

The couple, who also are travel enthusiasts, has taken road trips to Canada, Mexico and across the country, enjoyed cruises and relaxed on beach vacations. They are currently preparing for their next getaway.

While they aren’t planning to get married anytime soon, both are thankful they found one another and fell in love. They plan to share the rest of the lives living happy and healthy together.

“We are committed to each other,” Barbara says. “It was destiny.”

Art of Living

R

esidents at Sun Health Senior Living’s Life Care communities are truly living life to the fullest. We call it Masterpiece Living®, an

approach that redefines active senior living and promotes healthy and successful aging. Sun Health is proud to work in partnership with our residents to ensure that their lives are enriched by a broad range of opportunities.

We have partnered with Dr. Roger Landry, president of Masterpiece Living® and author of Live Long Die Short: A Guide for Authentic Health and Successful Aging. Dr. Landry, a preventive medicine physician, specializes in building environments that empower older adults to maximize their potential.

We know from Dr. Landry that authentic health is built on a foundation of four key components: social, spiritual, physical and intellectual engagement.

When we lose a spouse or lifelong partner, this engagement is especially vital to aging successfully. Of course, in the face of loss and uncertainty, embracing a new life, new friendships and new activities isn’t easy.

But we see our residents thrive thanks to Masterpiece Living®. It is the cornerstone of our three communities – Grandview Terrace, La Loma Village and The Colonnade.

Every day we offer opportunities to socialize and stay active. You name it, we do it!

From bowling to a trip to Laughlin to a book signing, there is something for everyone. The informal opportunities are important, too, whether pet lovers meet up to walk their dogs or a group enjoys a meal together.

Successful aging is a decision, and one that our residents are embracing. Ava Carter is one of our many residents who has blossomed here. Newly remarried, she has a brand new brightness about her. And that just fills my heart!

Jackie Lusson, Corporate director of sales for Sun Health Senior Living 623-236-3767 or information@sunhealthsl.org February 2017 • sunhealth.org

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A

va Carter and Bob Wells knew each other for several years before their romance began.

While living at The Colonnade, they attended dinner parties and social gatherings with mutual friends in Sun City Grand. Following the loss of their spouses, Ava and Bob discovered the feelings they had for one another was love — and it was the kind of love that would last for many years to come.

SENIOR LIVING

Overcoming grief

Finding Love After Loss

Two friends who shared a passion become husband and wife

By Meghann Finn Sepulveda

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Ava & Bob

Ava, an aircraft pilot, moved into The Colonnade, a Life Care Community, with her husband in 2011.

“We chose to live here because we knew that if something happened to one of us, the other person would be happy here among friends,” says Ava. Just four years later, Ava’s husband passed away. Her daughter and son-andlaw asked Ava to move to the Midwest and even offered to build mother-in-law quarters in their new home.

“I immediately told my daughter that I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else and I wanted to stay here,” she says.

Little did she know that just 300 feet away Bob was adjusting to life at The Colonnade without his wife, who passed away in 2010. A retired aircraft materials engineer, he kept busy flying radio-controlled airplanes, a hobby he’s had for many years.

Ava immersed herself in activities, too, making pottery and knitting to stay busy.

Getting to know each other

Ava and Bob were friendly toward each other when they played dominoes and visited at other events at The Colonnade.

“We knew each other pretty well so it wasn’t like meeting a stranger,” Ava said.

Last January, Bob called Ava and asked her to go to dinner.

“I asked, ‘Why?’” Ava says with a laugh. “He said he wanted to talk and I wondered what he wanted to talk about.”

They dined at nearby Grandview Terrace and discussed their shared passion for airplanes. Later that evening, Bob asked if Ava liked old comedy movies. She did.

The two friends watched a movie together the following night. Bob left the movie at Ava’s house.

“He had to come back and get the movie,” Ava says. “He brought several more over.”

The couple began spending more evenings together watching movies. Their neighbors started to notice, but it wasn’t until they attended a Mardi Gras party at The Colonnade that their relationship really began to bloom.

“It didn’t take long,” Ava recalls.

Declaring their love

A few months later, while on a trip to Prescott, the couple took a walk near a beautiful waterfall. It was there that Bob asked Ava to marry him.

She said, "Yes." “I never thought I’d ever get married again,” Ava says.

In May, surrounded by their closest friends, Ava and Bob exchanged vows at the Grand Community Baptist Church.

“We had flowers, music and lit a unity candle,” Ava says. “It was beautiful.”

They celebrated with an intimate dinner at Grandview Terrace following the ceremony.

Combining lives

ALLEN BUTLER

After the wedding and a honeymoon to Hawaii, Bob moved into Ava’s home at The Colonnade. The couple kept some of their belongings but also purchased new furniture together and quickly began settling in as newlyweds.

Ava and Bob like to travel and enjoy taking trips, visiting museums and other points of interest. Last fall, the couple took a month-long vacation to the Midwest and spent time with their newly acquired families and friends.

Today the pair is keeping up with their hobbies, staying busy and enjoying each other’s company.

“We have a lot of fun together,” Ava says.

Building a healthy community

one step at a time Sun Health La Loma Village staff prepares for the upcoming Arizona Marathon

By Meghann Finn Sepulveda

T

housands of participants, including three teams of employees from La Loma Village and other Sun Health entities, will gather at the starting line for the 9th Annual Sun Health Arizona Marathon, on Sunday, Feb. 19. The event, which is sponsored by Sun Health, not only promotes health and wellness through physical activity, but also raises awareness, gives hope and provides funds to nonprofit organizations in the Valley, including Sun Health Foundation.

Darcy Andelin, La Loma Village lifestyle fitness coordinator, has led the training efforts for staff who wish to participate during the past four years.

“I talk to them and help them get prepared and discuss training schedules,” Darcy says.

In addition to a full marathon, half marathon and fun run, The Sun Health Arizona Marathon includes a relay marathon, consisting of two to four team members who take turns running a course through the Estrella and White Tank Mountains, equaling 26.2 miles.

La Loma Village staff Ione Murray, Tricia Botma and Jeanette Oblea are all preparing.

“I like the feeling of teamwork and that there’s a lot of encouragement,” says Ione, a life enrichment music therapist.

For months, three La Loma Village teams have been training for the upcoming race.

“This is my third year running it,” says Tricia, a health information manager.

Sun Health exercise physiologist Rhonda Zonoozi says important pieces to a well-rounded marathon training program include finding the right footwear and incorporating a warm-up routine to gradually increase heart rate and breathing rate, and increase circulation to the working muscles.

In 2016, Jeanette, a catering coordinator, didn’t have time to train for the seven miles she ran in the relay. “It was painful,” she says. “I’m training this year!”

While movement promotes physical activity, training with teammates focuses on other key social, intellectual and spiritual components. These principles are similarly set forth by the researchbased Masterpiece Living® program, used at Sun Health Senior Living communities.

For more information, see the back page of the magazine or visit thearizonamarathon.com.

February 2017 • sunhealth.org

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SUN HEALTH AT HOME

e m o H t a h t l d r a a e w H A n o Sun i t a v o n n I s e r o Sc

T

he field at the University of Phoenix Stadium, home of the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals, was the setting for WESTMARC’s 24th annual Best of the West Awards, and in fitting fashion, the winners were invited on stage to receive their awards amidst heartpounding music, swirling lights and multiple machines blasting out fog, much like you’d see at an NFL game.

“It was like we had just scored a touchdown,” said Sun Health at Home membership counselor Joshua Freegard, speaking of the program being presented with the Excellence in Innovation award at the ceremony held in November.

Joshua was joined on stage by his teammates, Nicole Holtsclaw, special events coordinator;

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Jennifer Keiser, wellness coordinator; and Jennifer Drago, executive vice president.

Speaking for the team, Jennifer Drago thanked the selection committee and Sun Health leadership for its support of the first “continuing care at home” program in the entire Southwest.

“Sun Health at Home is filling an unmet need,” she said. “We are really excited to help seniors in the West Valley age in place in their homes.”

This year’s Best of the West Awards drew more than 400 business and community leaders and elected officials from across the Valley to celebrate excellence in economic development, quality of life and innovation in the West Valley.

The program launched in January 2016 and already has 24 members, with several more applicants going through the process.

PHOTO CREDIT: WWW.HAUTEPHOTOVIDEO.COM

ucker

By John T

"We are really excited to help seniors in the West Valley age in place in their homes."

The Excellence in Innovation Award recognizes individuals, organizations, businesses, facilities or programs that have demonstrated an innovative concept to accomplish one or more of the following: • Fulfill a need for West Valley residents.

• Preserve the West Valley’s assets or resources.

• Create an economic benefit for the West Valley.

WESTMARC—the Western Maricopa Coalition—is a public-private partnership of the 15 communities, the business community and the educational sector in the West Valley. The WESTMARC annual Best of the West awards competition began in 1993 as a way to recognize outstanding contributions to the image, lifestyle and economic development of the West Valley – the portion of Maricopa County west of Interstate 17.

Join us

for a Discovery Seminar

to learn more about Sun Health at Home

To RSVP visit sunhealthathome.org/seminar or call 623-227-HOME (4663).

• Monday, Feb. 6 at 3 p.m.

Sun Health Center for Health & Wellbeing 14719 W Grand Ave, Surprise

• Wednesday, Feb. 15 at noon Seminar and Luncheon at Palmbrook Country Club, 9350 W Greenway Rd, Sun City

• Thursday, Feb. 16 at 11 a.m.

Sun Health Center for Health & Wellbeing 14719 W Grand Ave, Surprise

• Tuesday, Feb. 21 at 2 p.m.

Sun Health Center for Health & Wellbeing 14719 W Grand Ave, Surprise

• Tuesday, Feb. 28 at 10 a.m.

Sun Health Center for Health & Wellbeing 14719 W Grand Ave, Surprise •

ALLEN BUTLER

Executive Director Barbara Mason, Membership Counselor Joshua Freegard, Special Events Coordinator Nicole Holtsclaw and Wellness Coordinator Jennifer Keiser attended the Sun Health at Home holiday luncheon

February 2017 • sunhealth.org

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Nutrition

SUN HEALTH AT HOME

Meet

Barbara Mason Sun Health at Home’s New Executive Director

A

s Sun Health at Home celebrates its first year, the growing program welcomes Barbara Mason as its new executive director.

Barbara joins us from Illinois, where she spent nearly 15 years working in health care-related positions. Most recently, she worked in marketing for a mobile diagnostic services company. Barbara has also worked as a counselor and educator and a program manager for a men’s residential chemical dependency unit. She also trained as vocational nurse in England early in her career.

We asked a few questions to get to know her better.

Q. What drew you to Sun Health at Home?

I have quite a bit of experience working with the older adult population. It was very appealing to me to be part of a program that would advocate and provide services to this population.

Plus, my mother-in-law has Alzheimer’s disease, and I’ve been her primary caregiver. So I understand some of the challenges our members and their families might one day face.

Q. What excites you about Sun Health at Home?

The program has gotten off the ground very well. And the team is on track to meet its goals. Plus, as the first continuing care at home program in Arizona, we have a wonderful opportunity to continue growing.

Q. How do you view your position?

I want to be deeply involved in getting to know our members, so they know who I am and what my role is.

In addition, I plan to be out and visible — attending seminars and functions and taking an active role in addressing our members’ needs.

Q. What will you be doing when you’re not working?

I’m looking forward to getting involved with community theater. I was a professional singer and dancer for a number of years. I’m also hoping to connect with a new church and its music ministry. And I’m a sports fanatic who loves to play terrible golf.

And most importantly, I’ll be spending time with my husband, who is retiring, and visiting our three sons and two grandchildren on vacations.

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Selected by Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Susan Welter from the Sun Health Center for Health & Wellbeing

Heart-Healthy Wok-Seared

Chicken Tenders with Asparagus & Pistachios Ingredients • • • • • • • •

1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil 1 1/2 pounds fresh asparagus, tough ends trimmed, cut into 1-inch pieces 1 pound chicken tenders, cut into bite-size pieces 4 scallions, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces 2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger 1 tablespoon oyster-flavored sauce 1 teaspoon chile-garlic sauce* 1/4 cup shelled salted pistachios, coarsely chopped

Directions

Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.

Add asparagus; cook, stirring, for 2 minutes.

Add chicken; cook, stirring, for 4 minutes.

Stir in scallions, ginger, oyster sauce and chilegarlic sauce; cook, stirring, until the chicken is juicy and just cooked through, 1 to 2 minutes more.

5. Stir in pistachios and serve immediately.

1.

2.

3.

4.

Nutrition information

Serving size: 1 1/4 cups Per serving: 224 calories; 10 g fat(2 g sat); 3 g fiber; 8 g carbohydrates; 27 g protein; 142 mcg folate; 63 mg cholesterol; 2 g sugars; 0 g added sugars; 1070 IU; vitamin A 10 mg vitamin C; 51 mg calcium; 2 mg iron; 278 mg sodium; 510 mg potassium

*Find chile-garlic sauce in the Asian food section of most grocery stores.

Recipe originally appeared in: EatingWell Magazine, April/May 2005

Diabetes Education and Training is Covered by Medicare, Other Insurers Individuals receive 10 hours of training plus nutrition counseling

A

ccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Diabetes Association, nearly 30 million people in the United States have diabetes, including more than 25 percent of adults age 65 and older. Of those with diabetes, nearly 26 percent are unaware of their condition.

Education is key to managing and successfully living with type 2 diabetes. The Sun Health Center for Health & Wellbeing is proud to offer a Diabetes Self-Management Education/Training Program accredited by the American Association of Diabetes Educators. This program helps individuals with diabetes learn how to manage their disease and be as healthy as possible by focusing on healthy eating, physical activity, selfmonitoring, medication management, reducing risks and preventing diabetic complications.

Sun Health’s program is taught by certified diabetes educators/registered dietitians and an exercise physiologist/health coach. The programs are offered throughout the year at different locations, including the Center for Health & Wellbeing locations in Surprise and at Banner Boswell Medical Center in Sun City, as well as locations in the Southwest Valley.

is also covered as an annual benefit for those diagnosed with diabetes. This includes three hours of counseling in the first year the benefit is received, plus two hours of counseling each year thereafter.

Who's eligible?

These benefits are for individuals diagnosed with diabetes who have Medicare. You must have a written order from a doctor or other health care provider.

Your costs in Traditional Medicare

You pay 20 percent of the Medicare-approved amount, and the Part B deductible applies. Commercial insurance and Medicare replacement plans typically follow Medicare guidelines. Please consult your insurance provider for details about coverage.

For more information about our upcoming Diabetes Self-Management Education series classes, please see page 21 of this issue. You can also call 623-832-WELL (9355) or visit sunhealthwellbeing.org.

Medicare Part B (medical insurance) and most insurance carries cover outpatient diabetes selfmanagement education/training to teach you to cope with and manage your diabetes. Medicare covers 10 hours of the initial Diabetes Self-Management Education/Training Program along with two hours of follow-up training each calendar year after the initial session. Medical Nutrition Therapy, one-on-one counseling with a registered dietitian nutritionist,

BRAD REED

What is covered?

www.sunhealthwellbeing.org

February 2017 • sunhealth.org

17

WELLNESS

Keeping Heart Healthy Commit to good heart health in the New Year

C

By Gretchen Pahia

ongestive heart failure is one of the most prevalent conditions among older Valley residents. In fact, 5.7 million Americans over the age of 65 are affected by congestive heart failure each year. While it is a dangerous condition, it can be prevented and cared for after diagnosis.

Congestive Heart Failure Specialist and Education Coordinator Becky Kraemer, of Cardiac Solutions, says it is all about education.

“I teach classes on how to live with heart failure and preventing heart failure, with the goal of keeping people out of the hospital,” Becky says.

The term congestive heart failure means your heart isn’t pumping as well as it should, meaning there is less oxygen and nutrients reaching the cells of your body. People suffering from this and other heart conditions should focus on preventative care as well as long-term care after

18 LiveWell

• The Sun Health Way

diagnosis, and be actively involved in the process. “We all live with the Dr. Marcus Welby syndrome, where no one knows what is going on with their own health care,” Becky says. “They just want to be told what to do and sent on their way. However, one diet won’t work for everyone; one exercise program won’t work for everyone and people need to play an active role in their own care.”

Nutrition is Key

Patients 60 years and older, need to remember their metabolism slows down as they age. They need to have peace with their body and give it time to heal. “Your body has been patient with you all these years, so now it is your turn to be patient with it,” Becky says. One of the main points people need to remember as they get older is that eating healthy is most certainly

key to prevention and longterm care for our bodies.

“People need to learn to eat healthy,” Becky says. “What God made and we didn’t wreck, is usually good for us, so this means anything that isn't processed.”

Exercise is Heart Smart

Exercise is also important, but be mindful of your physical restrictions and abilities. Before you start an exercise regimen, first and foremost contact your personal physician or cardiologist for guidance.

Once you start, listen to your body. If you become short of breath or experience chest pains, you are exercising too hard. If you become dizzy, the same rules apply. Slow down and take it easy. Becky reiterates, “You need to listen to your body and give your body time to work with you.”

Heart Attack Signs and Symptoms

Women and Men ARE Different

D

id you know the signs of heart attack differ by gender? The following information is from the American Heart Association, and was reviewed

by Anthony Martinez, BSN, RN, Clinical Program Manager for Heart Failure/Chest Pain at Banner Boswell Medical Center.

Women

In general, people over the age of 55 should work on getting 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week, even if you are healthy.

However, if you have not exercised in a while and are looking to start something new in 2017, speak with your family doctor or specialist. Once you feel ready to get started, start slowly and try to keep to a schedule, but remember flexibility is key. Walk three to four times a week for 30 minutes. Even if you have to just walk to your mailbox and back, it is better than remaining sedentary all the time.

Steady Progress is Key “Exercise and being healthy should be a part of your life forever and it must be something

To learn how the Center for Health & Wellbeing can help you achieve your nutrition & fitness goals, visit sunhealthwellbeing.org or call 623-832-WELL (9355).

Women may not experience chest pain commonly associated with heart attack. Symptoms can include shortness of breath, extreme fatigue, pain in the back, jaw or neck, as well as vomiting and nausea. Additional signs may include a change in the ability to do things that once were easy, but are now difficult, such as exercise or chores. Also, indigestion-like symptoms that come and go could be a sign. Symptoms may develop over days or weeks.

Men

you are willing to give your body,” Becky says. “Maintenance and diligence are vital.

Remember, there is no hurry, so if you miss an exercise day, it is OK, because you can work it into your life as you need to, as long as you keep moving.”

Most importantly, keep it livable, so that you are not eating and living differently from all of those around you, who are your support system. That will help everyone in the long run and keep you moving forward to a healthy and prosperous life.

Men’s heart attacks often involve traditional discomfort in the center of the chest occurring for several minutes at a time. It may go away and come back. Other symptoms may include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, and/or in the stomach, back, jaw or neck. Men may break out in a cold sweat, feel lightheaded or have nausea. And, they may experience shortness of breath, even without chest pain.

Don’t Wait – Call 911

If you or a loved one experience these symptoms, please call 911. Experts say you should never try to drive to the hospital. Emergency medical service personnel can start life-saving treatment upon arrival.

And, patients who arrive at a hospital by ambulance typically receive faster treatment.

Other important factors for both men and women include family history, stress levels and diet. If you think you may be at risk, please check with your doctor, who can advise you on changes you can make to become heart smart. Up to 90 percent of heart disease is preventable and 50 percent of heart attack patients have symptoms!

February 2017 • sunhealth.org

19

Healthy U

February 2017

Classes & Events REGISTRATION REQUIRED!

SPACE IS LIMITED, SO REGISTER EARLY.

Register online Visit sunhealthwellbeing.org and click “Education” then “Register for Classes”

Register by phone 623-207-1703 except where noted CLASS SIZES ARE LIMITED. Events with fewer than

10 reservations are subject to cancellation. If you are unable to make a class you are registered for, contact us within two business days prior.

Classes with this icon have an associated fee.

LOCATION KEY: Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center Auditorium

14502 W. Meeker Blvd, Sun City West, AZ 85375, use the Louisa Kellam Center for Women's Health entrance.

Boswell/Juniper - Banner Boswell Medical Center, Support Services Juniper Conference Room, 2nd Floor, 13180 N. 103rd Dr., Sun City Boswell/Memorial Hall West - Banner Boswell Medical Center, Support Services Memorial Hall West, 1st Floor, 13180 N. 103rd Dr., Sun City Center for Health & Wellbeing - Sun Health Center for Health & Wellbeing 14719 W. Grand, Surprise Faith Presbyterian Church - 16000 N. Del E. Webb Blvd., Sun City

Grandview Terrace H&R - Grandview Terrace Health and Rehabilitation Center, 14505 W. Granite Valley Dr., Sun City West

La Loma Village H&R - La Loma Village Health and

Rehabilitation Center, 14260 Denny Blvd., Litchfield Park

La Loma Village MPR - La Loma Village Multi-purpose Room, 2nd Floor, 14154 Denny Blvd., Litchfield Park

Litchfield Park Library - 101 W. Wigwam Blvd.,

Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

PORA - PORA Learning Center,

13815 W. Camino Del Sol, Sun City West

The Colonnade - 19116 Colonnade Way, Surprise 20 LiveWell

• The Sun Health Way

BRAIN HEALTH Exercise Your Parkinson’s Knowledge Thursday, Feb. 2; 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Physical Therapist Celeste Delap will demonstrate key exercises and explain how exercise has a positive impact for individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

Location: La Loma Village H&R Meditation for Healthy Living Wednesday, Feb. 22; 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Sue Witter, meditation expert, will show you how to incorporate meditation into your everyday life for relaxation, stress reduction and other health benefits.

Location: Boswell/Juniper CANCER CARE Healthy Meal Prep for Cancer Fridays, Feb. 3 or 17; 10 to 11 a.m.

Learn how to create easy and affordable dishes packed with antioxidants and flavor while staying on a budget.

Open to cancer survivors, family and friends. In partnership with Cancer Support Community Arizona.

Location: Center for Health & Wellbeing Boosting Your Immune System Thursday, Feb. 16; 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Naturopathic physician Jonathan M. Psenka, NMD, shares how to strengthen and enhance the immune system through the food you eat. Learn the role of alkalinity and the foods that help during and after cancer treatment. In partnership with Cancer Support Community Arizona.

Location: PORA Understanding Mouth and Throat Cancers Thursday, Feb. 23; 9 to 10 a.m.

Dr. Michael Rodriguez, otolaryngologist, will present facts, symptoms and treatments for these types of cancers.

Location: Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center Auditorium

DIABETES CARE Diabetes Connection Support Group Monday, Feb. 20; 3 to 4 p.m.

This monthly group is for individuals who have diabetes or prediabetes to gather together to share and learn in the pursuit of healthy living. Registration is not required.

Location: Center for Health & Wellbeing Diabetes Self-Management Education This five-week course provides the guidance needed to help prevent diabetic complications and improve overall health.

This series is taught by Center for Health & Wellbeing certified diabetes educators. Please call 623-832-WELL (9355) to register and inquire about insurance coverage.

The fee for this series is covered by most insurance and requires a physician referral. Register at least one week prior to the start of the series.

Starts Tuesday, Feb. 28: 9 to 11 a.m.; Boswell/Juniper 1:30 to 3:30 p.m; Center for Health & Wellbeing HEALTH & WELLBEING

Blood Sugar Blues Thursday, Feb. 9; 9 to 10 a.m.

Certified Diabetes Educator Cindy Penaranda from Banner Health will lead a workshop on diabetes addressing the risk factors, symptoms, treatment and what can be done to avoid or delay the disease.

Location: Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center Auditorium Healthy Eating Thursday, Feb. 9; 10:15 to 11:15 a.m.

Dietitian Andrea Nguyen will review healthy daily eating and snacking ideas for promoting wise nutrition choices.

Location: Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center Auditorium Blood Pressure Checks Friday, Feb. 10; 10 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Feb. 15; 2 to 4 p.m.

About one in three adults have high blood pressure and many are not even aware of it. Retired nurse volunteers will be on-site to check your blood pressure and answer any questions you may have. Registration is not required.

Location: Center for Health & Wellbeing

Understanding Peripheral Neuropathy Wednesday, Feb. 1; 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Board Certified Internist Dr. Robert West from Arrowhead Health Centers will discuss the diagnosis, signs, symptoms, treatments and ongoing management of peripheral neuropathy.

Location: The Colonnade

Leading Your Most Balanced Life Thursday, Feb. 23; 10:15 to 11:15 a.m.

Join Physical Therapy Assistant Maren Harrison to learn about balance systems and strategies, the proper use of walking aids and fall recovery. There will be an opportunity for a personal balance screening.

Location: Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center Auditorium

Take a Tour of the Sun Health Center for Health & Wellbeing Tuesday, Feb. 7; 11 a.m. to noon Tour the Sun Health Center for Health & Wellbeing to learn about its services and meet the staff who can guide you on your journey toward health and wellbeing.

Location: Center for Health & Wellbeing

My Aching Back and Managing the Pain Friday, Feb. 24; 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

In this presentation, Sheba J. Shah, MD, presents common reasons for low back pain, the types of pathology that causes it and the treatments that are currently available.

Location: The Colonnade

February 2017 • sunhealth.org

21

Healthy U

TO REGISTER FOR CLASSES CALL 623-207-1703

February 2017

HEART HEALTH Taking Care of Your Heart Tuesday, Feb. 14; 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Dr. Fredric Klopf, MD, cardiologist from Cardiac Solutions, will discuss “Women and Heart Health.”

Location: Boswell/Memorial Hall West Give Your Heart a Little TLC Tuesday, Feb. 21; 6 to 7 p.m.

Join a Sun Health's registered dietitian nutritionist as she discusses improving cholesterol levels through lifestyle changes.

Location: Litchfield Park Library Staying Healthy with Your Heart Medication Monday, Feb. 27; 1 to 2 p.m.

Are you familiar with the side effects that are common with heart medications? Do you know which combinations to avoid, especially with over-the-counter medications, and what monitoring should be done to stay safe and healthy? Join Certified Geriatric Pharmacist Dawn Sullivan, PharmD, as she answers your questions.

Location: Faith Presbyterian Church

NUTRITION Heart-Healthy Nutrition: The DASH Eating Plan Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) is supported by research to improve not only blood pressure but also other health concerns. Tracy Garrett, Sun Health’s registered dietitian nutritionist, will provide information on how you can start the DASH to good health.

Monday, Feb. 13; 3 to 4 p.m.

Location: Center for Health & Wellbeing Monday, Feb. 27; 10 to 11 a.m.

Location: La Loma Village H&R PHYSICAL FITNESS lease note that exercise classes are now being offered P in eight class series. The current series of exercise classes began in January and will continue through February.

Please see the March LiveWell for the next series of exercise classes that will be offered.

MEMORY CARE Dementia Caregiver Support Group Wednesdays, Feb. 1 & 15; 3 to 4 p.m.

Marty Finley, MEd, leads this support group specifically for people caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or any type of dementia. Registration is not required.

Location: Grandview Terrace H&R Dementia and Ambiguous Loss Tuesday, Feb. 21; 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

Michelle Toft, MSW, discusses memory loss and how to find meaning throughout the Alzheimer’s disease process.

This loss is difficult to describe as the person is still present, but the disease masks who they have always been.

Location: La Loma Village MPR

22 LiveWell

• The Sun Health Way

Need a Ride?

Northwest Valley Connect is available to help you locate a ride to Sun Health's community education classes, events and much more.

northwestvalleyconnect.org • (623) 282-9300

February Classes & Events At-A-Glance Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

1 • Understanding

Peripheral Neuropathy; 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

• Dementia Caregiver Support Group; 3 to 4 p.m.

Exercise classes typically listed here are part of the new class series listings carried over from January. Look for new exercise classes in the March issue 6

7

Heart; 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

20 • Diabetes Connection;

3 to 4 p.m.

21 • Ambiguous Loss;

1:30 to 2:30 p.m.

• Give Your Heart a Little TLC; 6 to 7 p.m.

27 • Staying Healthy with

Your Heart Medication; 1 to 2 p.m.

• DASH Eating Plan; 10 to 11 a.m.

28 • Diabetes Self-

Management Education; 9 to 11 a.m. (1 of 5) • Diabetes SelfManagement Education; 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

(1 of 5)

15 • Dementia Support

Group; 3 to 4 p.m.

• Blood Pressure Check; 2 to 4 p.m.

Cancer; 10 to 11 a.m.

10 • Blood Pressure Check;

10 a.m. to noon

16

17

• Boosting Your Immune

System; 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

• Healthy Meal Prep for

Cancer; 10 to 11 a.m.

24

22

23

• Meditation for Healthy

• Understanding Mouth

Living; 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.

• Healthy Meal Prep for

9 9 to 10 a.m.

• Healthy Eating; 10:15 to 11:15 a.m.

14 • Taking Care of Your

3 to 4 p.m.

Parkinson’s Knowledge; 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

• Blood Sugar Blues;

11 a.m. to noon

• DASH Eating Plan;

3

• Exercise Your

8

• Take a Tour of CHW;

13

2

and Throat Cancers; 9 to 10 a.m.

• Leading Your Most Balanced Life; 10:15 to 11:15 a.m.

• My Aching Back and

Managing the Pain; 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

REGISTRATION REQUIRED FOR MOST CLASSES

CLICK OR CALL TODAY!

Register online

Register by phone

Sunhealthwellbeing.org and click “Education” then “Register for Classes”

623-207-1703 *except where noted February 2017 • sunhealth.org

23

ECRWSS Local Postal Patron

NONPROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID Denver, CO PERMIT NO. 5377

14719 W. Grand Avenue Surprise, AZ 85374 623.832.5350 information@sunhealth.org www.sunhealth.org

FINAL WEEKS TO REGISTER! FEBRUARY 19, 2017 Presidents’ Day Weekend

FULL | HALF | RELAY | FUN RUN Runs through several West Valley cities and Luke AFB

Boston Qualifier

Boston Qualifier and USATF Certified Courses

Special Valentines Registration Offer

BUY ONE - GET ONE FREE Use Code: BOGO17. Offer Expires 2/10/17.

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