“Hello, Mary Lou, Good Buy, House.” - Dean & Gwen Harring
Mary Lou Bennett ABR, CRS, GRI, SRES, AHWD REALTOR ®
hellomarylou.com maryloubennett1@gmail.com
Proudly serving Centre County since 1973 1375 Martin Street State College, PA 16803
c: 800.880.0666 o: 814.231.8200 ext 315
HOME HEALTH CARE
1402 South Atherton St Suite 210 State College, PA 16801 (814) 826-3200 www.brightstarcare.com/happy-valley
When a family member or loved one needs assistance, it’s critical to choose a provider who can offer a quality of care that will help them-and you-achieve a higher quality of life. BrightStar Care is here to help reduce the stress and anxiety that can occur during these times, and create greater peace of mind for both the individuals in our care and their families. BrightStar Care services focus on improving the health and wellbeing of those entrusted to our care. These services include comprehensive, around-the-clock personal and companion care, and nursing support as necessary. Our clients count on us for outstanding care and just about anything else they need, anytime, anywhere - so they and their loved ones can get the most out of life. To ensure the highest quality care, all of our clients receive an assessment completed by a registered nurse. All treatment and care is supervised by our director of nursing. BrightStar Care services are available on a daily, weekly, part-time or live-in basis, and are provided by the highest quality caregivers in the industry - trained, certified individuals who have undergone extensive background checks and verifications, and are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity, dependability and excellence. Our goal is to connect you with the right caregiver and provide a plan of care to help you live the life you want.
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(814) 235-2266
Jeffrey L. Simpson, D.C.
Kelly R. Fisher, D.C. 2603 E. College Ave Suite B State College, Pa 16801
GOT EXPERIENCE? State College & Boalsburg’s Only
Locally Owned and Operated Pharmacy This team has the combined experience of over 70 years, all serving Centre County residents! If you value experience in your health care partners, look no further than the Boalsburg Apothecary. We have pharmacists you can talk to, compounding specialists, and convenient parking. Real people answer the phones and no long wait times. Most insurances accepted.
3901 S Atherton St, State College Mon-Fri: 9AM - 6PM, Sat: 9AM - 1PM www.BoalsburgApothecary.com • (814) 466-7936
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Town&Gown’s SENIOR LIVING 2017 8 / 21st-Century Learners Older county residents have options to keep up with the latest technology • by James Turchick
23 / Daughters in the Workplace Working women caregivers often face difficult choices • by Ron Krasnansky
13 / Social Security: Not So Simple When to take benefits is an important part of retirement planning • by Judy Loy
25 / Strength for Life Corrective Exercise Specialists can help after injuries • by Rob Oshinske
14 / Oncology Massage Therapy for those with cancer can help alleviate some pain, stress • by Sarah Manzoni
26 / Stopping Falls Break the cycle, not your hip • by Ryan Cavanaugh, DPT
15 / Understanding Peripheral Neuropathy Addressing underlying causes of nerve problems offers lasting improvement • by Drs. Kelly Fisher and Jeffrey Simpson
Cover design by Tanner Lockett
16 / Senior Living Options A list of communities and facilities that can be found in Happy Valley
Published by Barash Media. Address inquiries to: Barash Media, 403 South Allen Street, State College, PA 16804-0077, (814) 238-5051 or 800-326-9584. © 2017 by Barash Media. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form except with written authorization from the publisher.
Do you have difficulty reading small print, or your smart phone, even with your glasses? Do headlights cause glare when you are driving? Do you find your eyes to be dry or irritated? These are some of the symptoms we experience as we grow older. The professionals at Restore Eye Care can diagnose and treat your vision problems and ocular health. Call us today to restore the vision and comfort you deserve.
Bringing your life into focus
Dr. Tracy Sepich, Dr. Christine Zlupko, Optometrists, and their team of experienced professionals!
100 Oakwood Ave., State College, PA 16803 (814) 272-0262 • www.restoreeyecare.com 2017 T&G Senior Living - 5
Town&Gown’s SENIOR LIVING Publisher Rob Schmidt Founder Mimi Barash Coppersmith Editorial Director Mark Brackenbury Creative Director Tiara Snare Operations Manager/Assistant Editor Vilma Shu Danz Art Director/Photographer Darren Weimert Graphic Designer Cody Peachey Ad Coordinator Lana Bernhard Account Executives Nicohl Geszvain, Debbie Markel Business Manager Aimee Aiello Interns Tanner Lockett (graphics), James Turchick (editorial) Distribution Handy Delivery To contact us: Mail: 403 S. Allen St., State College, PA 16801 Phone: (814) 238-5051, (800) 326-9584 Fax: (814) 238-3415 mbrackenbury@barashmedia.com (Editorial) rschmidt@barashmedia.com (Advertising) We welcome letters to the editor that include a phone number for verification. Back issues of Town&Gown are available on microfilm at Penn State’s Pattee Library.
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Retirement Condominiums
Adult Transitional Care, LLC. Your Choice, Our Privilege
Senior Move Management
Enjoy Our... •
Home Ownership • Gated Security • Location • Health Services • Amenities • Lifestyle
Village Heights Condominium Association 305 Village Heights Drive, State College, PA 16801 info@villageheightspa.com • www.VillageHeightsPA.com
814-231-5507
• Developing an overall move or “age in place” plan • Organizing, sorting, & downsizing • Customize floor plan • Interviewing, scheduling, and overseeing movers • Unpacking and setting up the new home
• Senior Move Management • Residential Management/Handyman • Personal Care/Companion 352 Norle Street, State College, PA 16801 (814) 954-2821 info@adulttransitionalcare.com www.adulttransitionalcare.com
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G
etting older doesn’t have to mean falling behind on ever-changing technology. There are a number of programs available for Centre County adults who never want to stop learning. At Schlow Centre Region Library in downtown State College, librarian Amy Madison is spearheading Schlow Labs — a revamped program that’s helping older people keep up with 21st-century technology. Originally Gadgets for Grownups, Schlow Labs is a series of classes held in the spring and fall. It consists of six classes and hands-on learning. The series tackles a wide variety of issues that older adults may face. “A circumstance we see a lot is older adults are given devices as gifts, but when they get frustrated with the technology they don’t know where to go,” Madison says. “Either that, or it costs money to (get help). Our class is free. The biggest feedback we get is, ‘Wow, I can’t believe this class doesn’t cost anything.’” The topics being discussed range from digital photo storage and website building to eBooks and 3D printing. A big issue Madison says comes up a lot is how to deal with storage issues when a phone or laptop is full. Using platforms like Apple’s iCloud is simple, but when it comes time to buy more storage it can get confusing. Madison says the classes can help beginners learn how to do it in a smart way. Anyone can walk into the library and ask for assistance at any time. If someone is at the desk, they’ll try their best to help. Another way to get the help needed is to call the library and set up Librarian Amy Madison (left) spearheads Schlow Labs, which helps older residents keep up with 21st-century technology.
an appointment with a librarian. Madison says the one-on-one sessions are the most helpful. Even if the first 10 minutes are spent trying to remember passwords and account names, which Madison jokes happens quite a lot, much can be done to solve problems.
“It’s not different from what librarians do” traditionally, she adds. Troubleshooting, finding answers, and helping people have been the job description for librarians for centuries. The only difference is now the library can fit in a pocket. The first class, Beginner Digital Photo Management for Seniors, will take place on September 30. Registration is required for all of the classes and can be done on Schlow’s website, schlowlibrary.org. That class will feature members of Penn State’s Center for HumanComputer Interaction, and complement the advanced class that will be taught in December. Just down the Allen Street hill, those Penn State instructors’ colleagues are helping older people keep learning too, through the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI). Founded in 1996, the institute is a membership-based organization dedicated to the education of people 50-plus and the enrichment of their lives. OLLI offers affordable courses, trips, and other activities to those “50 or better,” according to its website, olli.psu.edu. Hard sciences, the humanities, and health and wellness are all offered through the program, as well as many other subjects. Membership comes with a $50 per year fee. The class costs within OLLI are broken into groups — $15 for a single session, $25 for two sessions, $35 for three or four sessions, and $40 for five or more sessions. 2017 T&G Senior Living - 9
Classwork isn’t the only benefit, though. Discounts at local businesses and reduced rates on OLLI trips come with the package too, and some classes function more as an introduction. “Getting to Know Your Library” and “Mt. Nittany Vineyard: Tour and Tasting,” are examples of the way OLLI hopes to open up the world a little for its students through the classes.
Students in OLLI don’t get a degree and the classes aren’t for credit. It’s strictly for the enjoyment of learning. One thing OLLI and Schlow Labs have in common is although they market classes to an older generation, both are invested in helping
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people of all ages. OLLI’s official policy is anyone 18-plus can enroll. Over at Schlow Labs, the October 7, 14 and 28 classes are designed for anyone 11-years-old and up. They’ll focus on developing a website and 3D printing — with Schlow Library having its own 3D printers, which the public is free to use any day of the week. OLLI classes also zero in on tech issues, with multiple classes on internet privacy, and how to navigate the daily surge of new phones and tablets. Madison says one of the biggest problems they see at Schlow is people having trouble getting an app to work or difficulty managing their accounts. Both programs offer a wealth of information for anyone looking to get wise to technology, or to learn something new for the first time in a while for the pure satisfaction of it. Madison says the Schlow Labs series is her favorite part of her job, and she’s seen a decline recently in people asking for help because she thinks, hopefully, they’ve got it all figured out on their own. T&G
Always at your fingertips
find us online at townandgown.com
or follow us on
@TownGownSC 2017 T&G Senior Living - 11
Salem Hill Haven A Personal Care Home
Salem Hill Haven is a quality Personal Care Home located in a typically rural quiet country Penns Valley setting. • Residents are provided with access for a personal phone or a common resident phone • Television outlets are provided • Insulated rooms for increased privacy • Room temperature is individually controlled • Volunteer and group visitations are planned regularly to provide entertainment • Transportation can be arranged with the Centre County Agency on Aging
RESIDENT ROOMS NOW AVAILABLE • CALL FOR A TOUR 424 Heckman Cemetery Road • Spring Mills, PA 16875 • (814)
Independent Living For An Active Senior Life
422-8435
Make Thursday Your Day
to pick up The Centre County Gazette
• Planned Activites • Community Room • Convenient Shopping • Laundry Facilities • Secured Entry System • Emergency Maintenance • Curbside Bus/Van Service
Call Today For A Personal Tour
Wonderfully affordable one-bedroom and studio apartments located in the heart of downtown State College, designed especially for active 55+ adults. Some Income Limits Apply www.calibreresidential.com • (814)238.0400 120 E. Beaver Ave., State College, PA 16801 12 - T&G Senior Living 2017
We cover what’s important to you! (814) 238-5051 • www.CentreCountyGazette.com
SOCIAL SECURITY: NOT SO SIMPLE
When to take benefits an important part of retirement planning By Judy Loy Retirement is something people worry about, look forward to, and plan for. In 2016, the average time in retirement was 21 years. Social Security plays a major role in Judy Loy income for many people during these years. For one in five retirees, Social Security is their only source of income. For one in three retirees, Social Security is 90 percent of their retirement income. Planning when and how to take Social Security can be an important part of retirement planning. Knowing your options and the long-term effects of different claiming ages is vital to later financial security in retirement. When figuring a worker’s Primary Insurance Amount (PIA, a worker’s Social Security benefit at full retirement) that amount is based on 35 years of highest salary history. If someone has not worked for 35 years (maybe only 20), the years with no income history would add $0 salary into the calculation, thereby lowering the Social Security benefits. Thus, working longer and delaying claiming under this scenario would be beneficial to that worker’s benefits. There are three key ages that are important to Social Security recipients. At age 62, Social Security is first available to participants at a reduced rate. At full retirement, claimants get their full PIA amount. This age is determined by the year of birth. Those born from 1943-1954 can get full retirement at age 66. For birth years from 1955-1959, the full retirement
age increases annually by two months. For instance, a person born in 1955 has a full retirement age of 66 and 2 months. Finally, for anyone born in 1960 or later, the full retirement is age 67. The third key age is 70. At age 70, increases in benefits for Social Security stop so everyone should claim Social Security by that age. When deciding the best age to begin taking Social Security, there are many factors that come into play. The most important thing to remember is the decision should be made as part of an overall retirement income plan. Taking Social Security as soon as possible, or when you retire, may not be the best course of action. Social Security can continue to grow until age 70. Taking Social Security at age 62 reduces the benefit by 25 percent to 30 percent from PIA for the rest of your life. Waiting to claim Social Security after full retirement up until 70 years of age increases the benefit by about 7 percent a year. If you are close to retirement or the opportunity to take your Social Security benefits, it’s a good idea to plan the best course of action. Taking your Social Security at the optimal time has been proven as the best longevity “insurance.” This means if you live longer than average, it is beneficial to have waited to take your Social Security later. T&G Judy Loy is a Registered Investment Advisor, ChFC, and CEO at Nestlerode & Loy Investment Advisors, State College. For more information call (814) 238-6249 or visit nestlerode.com. T&G Senior Living 2017- 13
ONCOLOGY MASSAGE
Therapy for those with cancer can help alleviate some pain, stress By Sarah Manzoni Cancer. It is a terrifying word that affects millions of people across the world with new diagnoses every day. This one word changes lives forever. For years it was believed that massage therapy and cancer did not belong in the same sentence. But new research shows that not only can massage therapy be performed on those with a cancer diagnosis, but that it can help alleviate some of the pain and stress associated with it and its treatments. According to the Society for Oncology Massage, oncology massage is a highly customized touch-therapy experience, modifying current massage therapy techniques to work safely on those who have experienced the complications of cancer and cancer treatments. A skilled therapist will ask the right questions about current and past treatments, medications, and complications to adapt techniques to the needs of each patient. These massage therapy sessions can provide a client with a sense of relief from stress and pain. Many who receive these sessions have also reported increased alertness and mental clarity, increased appetite, a decrease in peripheral neuropathy, improved range of motion, a reduction in the appearance of scarring, and improved sleep quality.
Oncology massage techniques are on a spectrum based on the needs and experiences of each individual.
When working with a trained professional, oncology massage can be beneficial at any stage of the cancer journey, including during and after treatment, in remission, cure, or hospice care. The belief that a massage must be “deep” or cause pain to be successful is inaccurate when applied to oncology massage. Techniques used in this service are on a spectrum based on the needs and experiences of each individual. Some may receive the lightest of touch on just their hands and feet, while others may be given a more traditional massage involving the entire body. Every session can produce beneficial results and can make the experience worthwhile. Even the smallest amount of touch can create a huge impact on patients physically, emotionally, and even spiritually. Though the mainstream incorporation of massage therapy into the oncology treatment protocol is fairly new, it will continue to gain momentum and acceptance as an important step in maintaining quality of life for people with a cancer diagnosis. T&G Sarah Manzoni is a Licensed Massage Therapist with Designers Denn Salon & Spa.
Come experience our NEW Signature Suite! ●Double steam shower with waterfall feature ●Private relaxation area and restroom ●Full access to all of our spa amenities ●Heated towels ●Water feature in suite ●Signature beverage Enjoy your own deluxe spa treatment or bring a friend or family member!
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w ww.designersdenn.com www.designersdenn.com
UNDERSTANDING PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY Addressing underlying causes of nerve problems offers lasting improvement By Drs. Kelly Fisher and Jeffrey Simpson Numbness, tingling, burning pain, deep stabbing pain, balance problems, and falling: are you one of millions of Americans who suffers from peripheral neuropathy? If so, you may have been told you have to deal with it, live with it, and rely on Gabapentin, Lyrica, Cymbalta, injections, or other drugs with serious side effects. While treating the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy may be desirable, it is crucial to truly understand and address the underlying causes of this condition in order to have lasting improvement. To understand peripheral neuropathy better, let’s think about a dying plant. What are some things that would cause a plant to get droopy and wilted? What does the plant need in order to perk up again? If you’re thinking things like water, sunlight, and nutrients, you are EXACTLY right! When a plant is deprived of these essential things, it starts to die. The nerves of our body are organisms, just like plants, so they will also die if they are deprived. There are tiny blood vessels that run through the body and supply nerves with oxygen, nutrients, and blood supply. As the blood vessels that surround nerves start to die off, the nerves are no longer getting what they need and begin to malfunction and shrink, like the wilting plant. At this point, peripheral neuropathy symptoms such as numbness, tingling, burning pain, sharp stabbing pain, balance problems, falls, and injuries begin to appear. Once symptoms occur, medications tend to be prescribed. These medications can help to deal with the symptoms. However, they do not actually help to increase blood supply to
Dr. Jeffrey Simpson
Dr. Kelly Fisher
the nerves again and create new blood vessels, which is what is needed for the nerves to get back to normal function. The good news is that there are ways to increase blood flow, reeducate small nerve fibers, and decrease pain signals associated with peripheral neuropathy. Lower Level Light Therapy (LLLT), discovered by NASA for treating wounds in space, is at the forefront of neuropathy treatments. LLLT creates a process called angiogenesis, which means “new blood vessels.” Again, it’s like watering a plant. The more LLLT a nerve gets, the more it repairs itself, just like a plant would by getting more water, sunlight, and nutrients. In addition to LLLT, there is cutting edge technology (based on a Nobel Prize winning concept) that can be used to help allow increased circulation to the extremities, and special devices that can be used to repair damaged nerves and start to make them durable once again. Often, neuropathy sufferers are under the mentality that “it will go away on its own,” or “the medications will get me better,” but playing the waiting game and/ or concentrating only on symptom relief for long periods of time can cause them to reach a point of no return with permanent damage to the nerves. By being educated about the underlying cause and seeking new treatment options available, many people are finding that they no longer have to be victims of peripheral neuropathy. Drs. Jeffrey Simpson and Kelly Fisher are chiropractors at Simpson Chiropractic, PLLC, www.SimpsonChirocares.com, (814) 235-2266. 2017 T&G Senior Living - 15
Centre County SENIOR LIVING OPTIONS Whether you’re looking for a retirement community for yourself or for a relative, Centre County offers plenty of living options. Some communities are for active adults who want an independent lifestyle with fun amenities. Others deliver assistance with daily living activities, and still others provide round-the-clock skilled-nursing care, either temporarily or long-term. Some communities offer more than one level of care. We encourage you to read over this section, mark those communities or facilities that might work for your family, and then visit them to take a tour, ask questions, and make sure you understand all costs before signing a contract.
Independent Living Independent living communities do not provide medical care or assistance with medications, personal care, etc. Townships and boroughs across Centre County offer a wide variety of traditional neighborhoods and apartment complexes that are open to all ages. Listed here are communities that cater specifically to seniors. They usually require residents to meet minimum age requirements. Some offer organized community activities such as book clubs, potluck dinners, classes, or speakers. Some retirement communities are meant to provide affordable housing to seniors with fixed incomes, as noted in individual listings. Others offer upscale amenities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, and fitness centers. In some of the retirement communities listed here, residents pay monthly rent, while in others, they own their homes and pay monthly fees to cover snow removal, lawn care, and upkeep of common areas. Communities that offer independent living and personal care or nursing-home care, or both, are listed under the “Multilevel Care� section.
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w Arnold Addison Court
120 East Beaver Avenue, State College (814) 238-0400 calibreresidential.com This high-rise apartment building is in downtown State College, next door to Schlow Centre Region Library and a primary bus stop. Renters must be at least 55 years old or handicapped; income limits apply. The building includes 89 studio and one-bedroom apartments, with a laundry room on every floor, plus a community room and patio. Small dogs and cats are permitted.
w Bellaire Court
729-763 Bellaire Avenue, State College (814) 234-7109 Built by the Borough of State College in 1977-78, Bellaire Court consists of 18 onebedroom apartments, one of which is wheelchairaccessible. Each apartment has a washer and dryer. One small pet per apartment is permitted. Renters must be at least 60 years old, and income restrictions apply. State College residents and their parents receive priority if there is a waiting list for apartments.
w Brockerhoff House
105 South Allegheny Street, Bellefonte (814) 355-6750 Located in historic downtown Bellefonte, Brockerhoff House was built in 1866 as the Brockerhoff Hotel, with a fourth floor added in the 1890s. The gothic-revival building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Operated by the Housing Authority of Centre County, 33 studio and one-bedroom apartments are available for low-income renters who are at least 62 years old. The complex offers a community room, onsite laundry, on-site management, bus stop, and county van service.
w Crestside Terrace
602 East Howard Street, Bellefonte (814) 355-6750 Operated by the Housing Authority of Centre County, Crestside Terrace features 40 one-bedroom apartments for low-income renters who are at least 62 years old; income restrictions apply. The complex offers a community room, on-site laundry, on-site management, bus stop, and county van service.
w Fox Hill Senior Apartments
200 Wyndtree Court, Bellefonte (814) 355-4090 ndcrealestate.com With buildings completed in 2002 and 2008 by S&A Homes, Fox Hill Apartments features oneand two-bedroom apartments for renters at least 62 years old; income restrictions apply. Buildings include elevators, laundry facility, common areas for activities, and supportive services, with handicapped-accessible units available. Section 8 vouchers are accepted.
w Graystone Court Villas
100 Hawknest Way, Bellefonte (814) 353-3431 graystonecourt.com Opened in 2014, Graystone Court Villas offers one- and two-bedroom apartments for renters who are at least 55 years old. The smoke-free high-rise building includes a game room, library, indoor heated pool, fitness room, beauty salon, community rooms, security systems, and parking garage. Pets are permitted.
w Mount Nittany Residences
301 Rolling Ridge Drive, State College (814) 234-1323 improved-dwellings.org Located near the Hills Plaza shopping center, Mount Nittany Residences is a high-rise apartment building for renters at least 62 years old or who are mobility-impaired; income restrictions apply. The building includes 145 one-bedroom and six two-bedroom apartments, plus common areas where activities are held. Mount Nittany Residences is operated by the nonprofit Improved Dwellings for Altoona Inc.
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w Penns Manor
Penns Court, Centre Hall Contact your real estate agent Torron Group built this Centre Hall community for homeowners who are at least 55 years old. Detached condominiums include garages, and the monthly association fee covers lawn care, snow removal, and exterior maintenance. Homeowners have access to the community clubhouse, with fitness room, card room, gathering space, and more.
w Philipsburg Towers
300 North Front Street, Philipsburg (814) 342-6802 Located in downtown Philipsburg in western Centre County, Philipsburg Towers is a high-rise building with one- and two-bedroom apartments, each with a living room/dining room combination. The building includes a laundry facility and outdoor picnic area. Renters must be seniors; income restrictions apply.
w Stonebridge Senior Apartments
1680 Bristol Avenue, State College (814) 237-1004 Opened in 2016, Stonebridge Senior Apartments is a four-story building with 24 one-bedroom and 34 two-bedroom apartments, all with balconies or patios. The facility offers elevator access, visual intercom system, grab bars in bathrooms, secure keycard entry for tenants and guests, and a community area with gathering room, laundry, and management and supportive-services offices. Residents have access to the neighboring Stonebridge outdoor swimming pool, tennis court, and pavilion. Income restrictions apply.
w Traditions of America at Liberty Hill
102 Settlers Way, State College (814) 466-9490 libertyhillpa.com Traditions of America community at Liberty Hill is an active-lifestyle community in the village of Boalsburg. Homebuyers can choose single-family or garden homes, all with lawn-care and snowremoval service. Home sizes range from 1,200 to more than 3,000 square feet. Amenities include tennis courts, outdoor heated pool, putting green, bocce court, community garden, paved walking paths, and more. The 10,000-square-foot clubhouse 18 - T&G Senior Living 2017
features a whirlpool spa, sports bar, fitness room, business center, billiard room, card room, and great room, and is a satellite site for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Penn State.
w Village Heights
305 Village Heights Drive, State College (814) 231-5507 villageheightspa.com Village Heights is a gated condominium community for residents age 55 and above, with management by the resident-run Village Heights Condo Association. Homebuyers can choose single-family homes or apartment-style units. Snow removal, lawn care, and exterior maintenance are included in the monthly maintenance fee. The Village Centre features a restaurant-style dining room (minimum monthly expenditure required), heated indoor pool and hot tub, and fitness center and locker rooms. Activities include exercise classes, water aerobics, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Penn State classes, book clubs, luncheons, bridge, bingo, and more.
Personal-Care Homes Personal-care homes provide meals, assistance with medications and daily living needs (such as dressing and bathing), and 24-hour supervision. In many states, these facilities are known as assisted living facilities. Under Pennsylvania law, each unit in an assisted living facility must have its own kitchen and specific levels of medical care; Centre County does not have any assisted living facilities but does have several personalcare homes. Personal-care homes must be licensed by the state of Pennsylvania. Personal-care homes that accept low-income residents who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are noted below. Communities that offer independent living and personal care or nursing-home care, or both, are listed under the “Multilevel Care� section.
w Eagle Valley Personal Care Home
500 Front Street, Milesburg (814) 355-3417 eaglevalleypersonalcarehome.com Eagle Valley offers private and double-occupancy rooms and accepts SSI. Three daily meals are served in the dining area, while a separate living
room is available for reading, working on puzzles, playing games, etc. Two covered porches and a patio extend the living area. Residents can participate in planned activities, visit the on-site beauty salon, and attend services in the on-site chapel. Benchmark Therapies provides physical, occupational, and speech therapy.
w Salem Hill Haven
w Elmcroft of State College
w Wynwood House at Greenhills
150 Farmstead Lane, State College (814) 325-9760 elmcroft.com Elmcroft provides residents with the freedom to choose their own agenda and activities, such as gardening, card games, and nature walks, along with the security of 24-hour personalized assistance. Residents live in shared or private studio apartments. Meals are served restaurant-style in the dining room, and common areas allow space for socializing and entertaining. The “Best Friends” memory-care program offers specialized assistance to seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia who do not need full nursing care.
“A tradition of caring and a legacy of service.”
424 Heckman Cemetery Road, Spring Mills (814) 422-8435 Salem Hill Haven is located in rural Penns Valley, just outside the small town of Spring Mills, and accepts SSI. With private and semiprivate rooms, the focus is on caring service in a small community. 301 Farmstead Lane, State College (814) 234-9898 wynwoodhouse.com All Wynwood House at Greenhills bedrooms have private bathrooms and individually controlled thermostats. The one-level building features open living-room and dining-room space, with three meals served daily. Services include assistance with bathing and grooming, housekeeping, physical and occupational therapy, and monitoring of health-care needs by registered nurses. Activity programs are offered each month. Wynwood House at Greenhills accepts SSI and also offers hospice service.
Grief. It Comes in Waves. Experience Helping Grieving Hearts Heal
Crematory on Premises Funeral Directors F. Glenn Fleming-Supervisor • John H. Jay Herrington • Breanne Radin Yeckley
814.237.2712
2401 S. Atherton St. State College, PA 16801 www.kochfuneralhome.com
Grief Education & Support Introduction Space is limited. Call or visit our website or Facebook page for detailed information and to RSVP for our monthly event.
A branch of John B. Brown Funeral Home, Douglas A. Hallinan, Supervisor • 417 Washington Street • Huntingdon, PA 16652 • 814.643.1256
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management, therapy, and a wide variety of other care. Centre Crest also provides respite care for emergency and short-term stays.
Private and shared suites are available, and Wynwood House accepts limited SSI. The 40-bed facility provides 24-hour security and assistance, all meals and snacks, housekeeping and laundry service, planned group outings, podiatrist, beauty shop, and therapy.
Multilevel Care
294 Discovery Drive, Boalsburg (814) 364-9770 wynwoodhouse.com w Aristacare at Hearthside Wynwood House opened in 2016 next 450 Waupelani Drive, State College door to Calvary Baptist Church’s new Harvest (814) 237-0630 Fields church. Private and shared suites will aristacare.com be available. The facility provides 24-hour With private and semiprivate rooms, the security and assistance, all meals and snacks, Hearthside offers 24-hour skilled-nursing care, housekeeping and laundry service, planned group pain management, colostomy care, cardiac care, outings, podiatrist, beauty shop, and therapy. wound care, X-ray services, respiratory services, therapy, dementia and Alzheimer’s care, and w Wynwood House of Penns Valley other medical care. Short-term rehabilitation 122 Wynwood Drive, Centre Hall is provided to patients recovering from stroke, (814) 364-9770 fractures, joint replacement, and other medical wynwoodhouse.com concerns. All patients are treated on-site by Wynwood House is located next door to the hospitalists an average of twice a week. Penns Manor independent living community.
Nursing Homes The state of Pennsylvania licenses nursing homes to provide care under the supervision of skilled medical personnel. Services may include rehabilitation therapy, IV therapy, care for pressure ulcers, tube feedings, dialysis, and other medical services, as well as assistance with activities of daily living. Communities that offer independent living and personal care or nursing-home care, or both, are listed under the “Multilevel Care” section. Many people enter a nursing home paying daily rates as private-pay patients and then apply for Medicaid when they have spent down their savings to the point that they are eligible for Medicaid.
Five Centre County retirement communities offer independent living plus personal care or skilled-nursing care, or both, and usually present a varied menu of amenities. Residents at some facilities pay monthly rent. At continuing-care retirement communities, residents typically pay a lump-sum entrance fee plus monthly fees in return for guaranteed access to higher levels of care, should it become necessary. CCRCs generally require new residents to begin with independent living housing.
w Foxdale Village
500 East Marylyn Avenue, State College (814) 272-2146 foxdalevillage.org Foxdale Village is a nonprofit, Quakerdirected continuing-care retirement community. Independent living for ages 65 and over is in one- and two-bedroom cottage homes and apartments, ranging from 845 to 1,450 square feet. w Centre Crest (For couples, one person must be at least 65 and 502 East Howard Street, Bellefonte the other at least 62.) Personal care is provided (814) 355-6777 at Darlington House, and skilled nursing care at centrecrest.org Operated by the Centre Care Inc. community Anthony House. All residents pay an entrance fee plus a nonprofit board, Centre Crest offers complex monthly fee. Independent living residents medical care, IV therapy, diabetic management, have an optional flexible meal plan available; wound care, end-of-life care, oncological pain
20 - T&G Senior Living 2017
meals are included for other residents. The community building features a dining room, cafĂŠ and bistro, woodworking shop, 185seat auditorium, library, art studio and gallery, full-service bank, computer lab, meeting rooms, and full wellness center with exercise room and new therapy pool.
w Juniper Village at Brookline
1950 Cliffside Drive, State College (814) 238-3193 junipercommunities.com Juniper Village at Brookline offers independent living in its one- and two-bedroom Windsong Apartments, personal care at The Inn and PineCastle, and nursing-home care and rehabilitation at Brookline Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation (formerly The Fairways). On a separate campus in State College, Wellspring Memory Care offers specialized care for people with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. Regardless of the living choice, each resident has access to an on-duty nurse 24 hours a day. There is no entrance fee or ownership. All fees are per day or month, with no long-term commitment.
w The Oaks at Pleasant Gap
200 Rachel Drive, Pleasant Gap (814) 359-2782 alsm.org The Oaks at Pleasant Gap is a Lutheranrun community providing independent living in The Village Cottages (duplexes) and The Court Apartments, and personal care in private and semiprivate rooms at Schreffler Manor. Respite care also is available for short-term stays. In addition, seniors meeting low-income requirements can enjoy independent living in Lutheran Commons apartments. Amenities include group activities, access to on-site medical services, case-management services, fitness room, and weekly worship services. SSI is accepted for personal-care residents.
2017 T&G Senior Living - 21
w The Village at Penn State
260 Lions Hill Road, State College (814) 238-1949 retireatpennstate.org This Penn State University-affiliated continuing-care retirement community offers independent living in apartments ranging from 935 to 1,400 square feet and in two-bedroom cottages from 1,600 to 1,800 square feet. To move to The Village, a resident must be at least age 62 and able to live independently. Residents pay an entrance fee and a monthly service fee so they have lifetime priority access to personal and skilled nursing care when needed; several entrance-fee plans are offered. Amenities include housekeeping, restaurant-style dining room, wellness programs, fitness classes, concierge services, and special-event tickets, discounts, and access to Penn State facilities.
A Place of Comfort & Caring We strive for professional and personal excellence, and promote the health and well-being of every resident. The Basic Rate Includes: • • • • • • • • • • • •
All meals and snacks All utilities Outstanding activities program Health & medication monitoring Complete repairs and service 24-hour resident assistance Weekly laundry Weekly housekeeping Nurse available daily Telephone Comcast Cable TV 24-hour security
Additional Services:
• Beauty/Barber • Personal Transportation • Guest Meals • Pharmacy Services • Home Health Services
Personal Care Communities:
Wynwood House at Penns Valley 122 Wynwood Drive, Centre Hall, PA 16828 | 814.364.9770
Wynwood House at Nittany Valley
294 Discovery Drive, Boalsburg, PA 16827 | 814.808.6800
Wynwood House at Greenhills
301 Farmstead Lane, State College, PA 16803 | 814.234.9898
For more information on residency requirements at Wynwood House, contact: Vincent Romanini, Director, 814.206.8000 22 - T&G Senior Living 2017
w Windy Hill Village
100 Dogwood Drive, Philipsburg (814) 342-8400 windyhillvillage.org Windy Hill Village is a Presbyterian-affiliated continuing-care retirement community for people age 55 and up. Independent living is offered in two-bedroom villas, personal-care residents have private suites with private baths, and the skilled nursing and rehabilitation center provides 24-hour care. Amenities include 24/7 security and emergency-response system, beauty salon and barber shop, exercise group, and outings. Most residents pay an entrance fee and then a monthly fee. Westminster Place at Windy Hill Village offers one- and twobedroom independent living apartments that require no entrance fee. SSI is accepted for personal-care residents. T&G
DAUGHTERS IN THE WORKPLACE
Working women caregivers often face difficult choice By Ron Krasnansky Every day in west-central Pennsylvania, thousands of working women face the same difficult choice: to be a good daughter or a good employee. They share that situation with millions of working women, and men, across the country. More than 34 million Americans are caring for an aging loved one, and many are doing so while also working full-time. Balancing work and caregiving can be very stressful, especially for working daughters. According to the Society for Human Resource Management, on average, working women spend almost twice as much time caring for aging loved ones as their male counterparts. A recent survey conducted by Home Instead Inc. found that 91 percent of female caregivers have needed to take action at work to accommodate their caregiving responsibilities. This means they turn down promotions, pause their careers, or use their vacation time to care for their loved ones. The career sacrifices combined with the hours of caregiving increase the stress and strain on working caregivers. A lack of support at work can negatively impact them and increase their stress. The Home Instead survey found a quarter of working daughters believed there were negative feelings at work about their situation, and 23 percent found their supervisor to be unsympathetic. This trend could continue to increase, with the number of Americans 65 and older projected to rise from 46 million to more than 98 million between 2016 and 2060. Home Instead Senior Care launched a free community program called Daughters in the Workplace. The program offers resources to educate caregivers about their options at work and at home. There are tips to help caregivers feel more comfortable talking with their employers, and creative ideas to help balance the roles as daughter and employee, such as:
Be realistic about how much you can do yourself. Be honest with yourself and your employer about what you need. Think creatively to offer solutions that will help you and your employer. Get plenty of rest so you can get more done and are increasingly confident in handling daily challenges. Take one day at a time. Caring for an older adult is an unpredictable job and one that often calls for a measured approach to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Arrange for help, including any care services your company might offer through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Your Area Agency on Aging (www.n4a.org) may know of community resources and you can contact your local Home Instead Senior Care office (HomeInstead.com) to learn about flexible professional caregiving that could help you. There are also elements in the Daughters in the Workplace program for employers. These pieces of the program will help employers better understand employees’ needs as they care for aging loved ones and suggest ways to offer important support. To explore all the free resources available through the Daughters in the Workplace program visit daughtersintheworkplace.com. T&G Ron Krasnansky is owner of Home Instead Senior Care. 2017 T&G Senior Living - 23
“Your Hometown Gym” For 25 years, our mission has been to provide the facilities and programs to enhance fitness, athletic performance, health and quality of life. Our Programs & Facilities include: • One-on-one training • Private and Semi-private Reformer Sessions • Wide Selection of Cardio, Selectorized Equipment and Free Weights • Nutrition Counseling • Massage Therapy • Child Care • Tanning • Silver Sneakers • Healthways Prime Group Fitness: Yoga, Pilates, HIIT, Spinning, Barre, Zumba and many more.
250 W. Hamilton Ave., State College, PA 16801 www.eastcoastfit.com • 234-9400 24 - T&G Senior Living 2017
STRENGTH FOR LIFE Corrective Exercise Specialists can help after injuries By Rob Oshinskie For many adults the terms pre- or post-rehab exercise are new and possibly confusing. But with many benefits to be had, it is worth a closer look. At some point most of us are likely to experience an orthopedic injury. It might be a low back strain, a meniscus tear, or a rotator cuff tear. In some cases it could be a less serious form of tendinitis or bursitis. Regardless of the injury, what usually follows is treatment by a physical therapist, chiropractor, massage therapist, or surgery and then treatment. But then what? You’ve gone to a great practitioner who’s worked their magic, but insurance has run out or you know you’re just not 100 percent. My advice is to hire a Corrective Exercise Specialist. Corrective Exercise Specialists (CES) are fitness professionals who have advanced training that equips them to bridge the gap between therapy and full function. It’s important to know that a CES is not usually a physical therapist. A CES is usually a personal trainer who is working in a fitness facility. Trainers with these advanced skills are rarely found in chain fitness centers. The step that follows will likely involve a physical assessment to identify weak and inflexible areas. The assessment allows the CES to plan a program that builds upon the work
done by your previous health professional. The corrective exercise program will increase strength in weak areas and will address tight muscles that are preventing good movement. The programs developed by CESs will usually focus on fundamental movements like squat patterns and require more coaching than simply placing you on a machine. While machines have their place, the typical machine is not the optimal means of regaining strength for life. So if you have not fully recovered from your injury, or are the parent or grandparent of an injured athlete, researching a qualified CES may be your next best step to complete recovery. T&G Rob Oshinskie is co-owner of Victory Sports & Fitness in State College with his wife, Jackie.
Post Rehab Program
Feel great, increase your energy, turn back the clock on activities your enjoy most. Call us today to set up your free fitness consultation with no obligation to join!
814.235.7676
178 Rolling Ridge Dr. Hills Plaza South www.victorynation.com 2017 T&G Senior Living - 25
STOPPING FALLS
reasons why your balance would no longer work efficiently. A couple of common issues include, Break the cycle, not your hip but are not limited to, vertigo and neuropathy. When you have “true vertigo,” your inner ear By Ryan Cavanaugh, DPT crystals leave their containment area and get stuck inside one of three canals. These canals One of the biggest challenges we face as we normally tell you how fast you are moving age is loss of balance and risk of falling. through space by fluid inside of them splashing About one-third of people over the age of 65 around as you move. When these crystals are in and almost half of people over the age of 80 will fall the canal, it is like throwing a rock into a pond. at least once this year, according to the American The crystals make the water splash around inside Physical Therapy Association (moveforwardPT. these canals when your head changes position. com/falls). Injuries from falls can lead to lifeWhen this happens, it tells the brain you are threatening problems and loss of independence. accelerating faster even though you may not be. There are many factors that correlate with You will perceive this as a “spinning” and your being at risk for falls, including: being 80 years eyes will flicker because your brain is trying to see or older, leg muscle weakness, difficulty walking, where you are moving toward to avoid falling. decreased vision, medical complications such This “bad signal” that comes from your inner ear as stroke or diabetes, confusion, depression, can cause the brain to get bad information about multiple or specific medications (four or more), how you are moving through space. using an assistive walking device, home hazards Neuropathy and leg weakness is a very like pets and rugs, low blood pressure, and prior common problem. Neuropathy impacts the history of a fall. brain because your leg sensory nerves either Your balance system is very complex, made up do not work or send a very weak signal. They of many parts. Your eyeballs tell you what you are responsible for your proprioception or your see, your inner ear tells you how fast your body ability to know exactly where your feet are weight is moving, your legs tell you what your under you and what they feel as they move feet feel to keep you standing, and your neck through space. This is often combined with leg tells your brain where your head is positioned. weakness. When you cannot feel your feet very Your brain is the computer that processes all well and your hips, knees, and ankles are not this information from these sensory parts and strong, they struggle to do what the brain wants then quickly calculates a strategy to keep you them to do to you keep moving. balanced. This normally happens quickly These are only two common examples without thought. There are many examples of of balance-related issues, but they illustrate how complicated the sense of balance is Our balance system is very for the body and the complex, made up of many brain. Everything has parts, Cavanaugh says. to work like a “welloiled machine,” and if one part is broken, the machine slows down. Finding the cause of your imbalance will help to determine what treatment is appropriate. Specialists such as ENT MD/Audiology, Primary Care MD, Cardiologists, and Neurologists may be necessary for certain 26 - T&G Senior Living 2017
How To Make Your Home Safer -Provide adequate lighting in your home. Use nightlights. -Have grab-bars put in next to your toilet and in the shower. -Remove throw rugs and secure carpet edges. Place non-slip rugs or mats in the bathroom. Throw rug = throw you on the floor! -Use your cane or walker if it was recommended by a healthcare practitioner. -Remove items or furniture that you could trip over or are in the paths you take for walking. -Keep items in cupboards and cabinets that you frequently use on a shelf where you can easily get them without climbing up a step stool (For more information, visit moveforwardPT.com/falls.)
imaging or testing to rule out some pathologies. The primary method of improving your balance is to work with a physical therapist. Physical therapists are trained in diagnosing many of these problems that can affect your balance. Many of the treatments for balance problems are simple. “True vertigo� can be corrected through head positions that realign the crystals. Simple leg exercises can improve leg strength and balance sense. Your physical therapist will do an assessment of your medical history, vision, walking, strength, conditioning, and home environment to help make determinations as to what treatments are needed. Your physical therapist can work with you on a specific program to maximize your safety and function with appropriate treatment techniques, devices, referral for community programs, or changes in living strategies. Your physical therapist will help you to maintain an active and safe lifestyle. Ryan Cavanaugh, DPT, is a physical therapist for Atlas Therapy in State College.
We invite you to learn more about all that
The Oaks has to offer
Personal Care Independent Living Apartments & Cottages 814.359.2782 28 - T&G Senior Living 2017
www.alsm.org
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