Gold Age
Magazine
Professional Trade Publication for Assisted Lifestyles of All Ages in Minnesota
Cover Feature Story
Friendship village 2009 Volume 1
Also Inside: Beltone • Those Amazing Dogs • Beyond Healthy Vision
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Contents Feature Stories / Editorials 5 These Dogs Fetch Amazing Things
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6 Friendship Village 9 Too Sick for Assisted Living 10 Vision and Hearing Loss in the Elderly 11 Because Healthy Vision Goes Beyond 20/20: 12 What’s Happening in Minnesota 16 Beltone Listens To Customers 18 Involving Baby Boomers 20 Stem Cell Therapy 21 Strengthening Employment Outcomes
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Commercial Printer: Sunray Printing Inc. 25123 22nd Ave St. Cloud, MN 56301 1-888-253-8808 Contributing Writers: Joan Aasve, Barbara Basler, Martha Carstensen, Meagan Comerford, Susan Cushing, Shelly Hiemer, Dr. Amy Rudser and Ann Terlizzi Created by Interface Graphics, a division ofby GOLD AGE Magazine is published McCann Erickson Pavonis, LLC. Principle office: Phone: (952) 873-5418; Fax: (952) 873-5641 Email:info@goldagemagazine.com. COPYRIGHT © 2008, Pavonis LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without the permission of the publisher. Precautions are taken to ensure the accuracy of published materials, GOLD AGE Magazine cannot be held for opinions expressed or facts supplied by it’s authors. The advertisers, associate publisher, publisher, and Pavonis, LLC are not responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints or typographical errors.
These Dogs Fetch Amazing Things!
Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota
By Shelly Hiemer
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or 20 years, Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota has been creating lasting, life giving relationships between people and their canine partners. Throughout our history, more than 270 assistance dogs have been successfully placed in Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, North Dakota, and Wisconsin. The organization is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or living with a disability by creating mutually beneficial partnerships with specially trained dogs. This unique vision of helping people began in 1987 when Executive Director Al Peters learned that 140,000 Minnesotans were deaf or living with a profound hearing loss. He knew that many could live more independently with a hearing dog to alert them to everyday sounds. He set out to select, train and match dogs with a human partner at no cost to the person. In 1995 the program was expanded to include Service Dogs to assist another highly underserved population, those with a physical disability. By expanding the programming, the lives of clients and animals are also expanded. Clients gain significantly through new experiences associated with receiving a service dog. Assistance dogs help their partner gain a higher quality of life, increased self-esteem, and personal independence. “Speaking of Hope”
assistance or residential placement. A 13-month study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that using specially trained dogs to assist persons with disabilities in the daily routine could be more cost effective than using paid health care providers for the same services. The researchers estimated that an assistance dog could save $13,000 per year and significantly improve the quality of life for their human partner and their family. Assistance dog is a general term applied to dogs that have been trained and certified to perform tasks for people with disabilities that are difficult or impossible for the person to perform themselves. There are several categories of assistance dogs trained at Hearing and Service dogs of Minnesota: Hearing Dogs serve as the “ears” for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. The dogs listen for sounds like a knock on the door, smoke alarm or baby’s cry. When the sound happens, the dog touches the person and leads them to the source of the sound. A Hearing Dog provides freedom and peace of mind to their human partner. Service Dogs are dogs that are trained and placed to work with an individual who has one or more physical disability. Service Dogs are trained to meet the individual needs and enhance the independence of the people they serve by: • Providing mobility assistance to those using manual or electric wheelchairs, walkers or other devices • Bracing to assist with standing or walking • Alerting family members to a partners’ need for help • Alerting to possible low blood sugar levels for brittle diabetics • Seizure Response Dogs provide trained behaviors in response to a seizure. Autism Assist Dogs assure safety and security to children with autism and create peace of mind for their families.
Photo is of Nicole and her Service Dog “Hope”.
Since its inception, Hearing and Service Dogs of Minnesota has seen a steady increase in the demand for trained assistance dogs to serve persons with a growing variety of abilities. Today, people with severe disabilities are less likely to live in institutional settings than they were fifteen years ago. In Minnesota 14% of people live with an impairment that leads to decreased quality of life and increased medical expenses. For people with a disability and their caregivers there is a constant challenge to balance the need for independence and need for safety. Additionally, assistance dogs may be one of the few options available for families whose insurance plans do not cover expensive equipment, aides, respite care, nursing
Facility Based Service Dogs work in an institutional environment and participate in physical, verbal and emotional therapy. Assistance dogs do more than provide necessary physical tasks, they help individuals and families achieve self-reliance, provide valuable companionship, and creating greater understanding between persons with differing abilities. Armed with understanding, communities can become supportive webs for their most vulnerable members. Freedom, independence and peace of mind – you can’t put a price tag on services like those. For more information contact us by emailing info.hsdm. org, calling 612-729-5986 (tty 612-729-5914) or visit our website at www.hsdm.org.
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Friendship Village Celebrating The Lives Of Seniors By Redefining Retirement By: Susan Cushing
Celebrating an incomparable 30 years of inspiration and empowerment, Friendship Village of Bloomington enjoys the distinction as Minnesota’s only true comprehensive life care retirement community. A sterling reputation for excellent service, professional yet caring management, a sound financial record, and two flexible entrance options (including the signature 90% Returnof-Capital™ plan) are just a few of the features that distinguish Friendship Village from other retirement communities. Nestled against the Hyland Lake Park Reserve, Friendship Village offers a picturesque haven that’s quietly secluded yet just minutes from Minneapolis/St. Paul and the area's scenic lakes and parks. A truly charming backdrop, yet what’s truly unique about this community is not the setting but rather the mind-set. Committed to excellence, innovation, and creating a community celebrating the lives of seniors, Friendship Village’s infrastructure reaches beyond modern buildings, lush gardens, and beautifully appointed spaces. Here the true focus is on the individual and maximizing every aspect of his or her life. Designed specifically to achieve these goals, the innovative and highly successful Wellness Program takes a well-rounded approach embracing six different aspects of life. “Wellness does not simply refer to the physical state,” observes Friendship Village’s Director Rick Meyer. “In order to realize the limitless possibilities of senior life, we base our programs on six critical dimensions: social, vocational, spiritual, physical, intellectual, and emotional. “Anticipating needs and exceeding expectations is more than a slogan,” he continues, “it is a promise made and kept by our committed, professional staff whose passionate attention to detail has provided an optimal setting for growth and enrichment to hundreds of seniors for three decades.” Through responsible stewardship and sincere dedication to their residents, Friendship Village offers a comprehensive and enhanced lifestyle that celebrates the lives of seniors and encourages the development of every facet of life. “We are truly a cut-above,” says Karen Lloyd Director of Friendship Village’s Wellness Programs. “As Minnesota’s only true Life Care community, Friendship Village has so much to offer! Naturally, everyone’s first impression is one of wonder at the incredible natural beauty, but as they delve deeper into our living spaces, programs, and amenities, they realize that this is an exceptional and unique community. For example, our Fitness Program has been an overwhelming success! Within the first eight months of initiating the program we had regular participation from almost 300 of our residents.” In addition to inspiring support, such as that received from Fitness Manager Mia Bremer, residents of
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Friendship Village are encouraged by interacting with other specialists that add variety to the program, such as Tai Chi classes, massage and personal training sessions. High-tech software helps track progress for those who like to know how they're doing "by the numbers". Others enjoy the ongoing social aspect of classes designed especially for them. “Initially residents underwent the Rikle-Jones Senior Fit Test to determine their fitness level,” Lloyd explains. “Mia then provided class placement levels and other fitness recommendations for each resident. Fitness assessments are offered regularly to provide benchmarks for senior fitness. Additionally a software program called BSDI Fitness Analyst and Check-in allows Mia to track progress and class attendance for the 300+ participants. In the first year of this measured program, there have been more than 9300 check-ins for classes alone. The fitness center also attracts more than 200 fitness equipment uses per week.” Bremer reports that residents are seeing great health benefits such as increased endurance, stronger muscles, faster gait and improved bone mass. Why so much focus on fitness? According to Lloyd it’s a critical to every other aspect of a full and meaningful life. “This component allows one to become involved and to stay involved in community life,” she explains. “By engaging in fitness programs such as those offered here at Friendship Village, everyone has a higher potential to contribute to a vibrant, active and positive environment in which to live. And that is what Friendship Village is all about.” Obviously, the residents agree as the numbers will attest. Classes continue to grow at such a rate that additional sessions are added on a regular basis and this widespread ‘fitness revolution’ appears to directly impact residents involvement in other community activities as well. “We've always measured our success by how well we meet the needs of our residents. That's why we work so closely with them, listening to them, getting to know them as individuals, and working hand-inhand to create a community we can all be proud of,” notes Meyer. “We routinely conduct surveys to ensure our residents are satisfied and we continually make adjustments or changes based on their feedback. We have an open book policy that fully discloses community operations, including finances. In addition, our numerous resident committees help provide feedback and oversee community operations for a truly ‘handson’ involvement in their own community.” Longtime resident Alice Mae Defenbaugh is an excellent example of how Friendship Village neighbors feel about their community. A resident since the doors opened in 1979, Defenbaugh and her husband were still working when they first moved in. As time went on, they eventually retired and spent more and more time volunteering; he as an artist who designed posters and she as a musician. She still remains an invaluable and active volunteer singing for Vespers, writing poetry, and playing piano for various community events. “I’m thankful that I have this lovely place in which to live,” she says. “I like knowing that I can be with people when I want or spend time alone if I choose. I like having the freedom to do what I enjoy while being in a safe place. I’m so content, I feel guilty!” “Potential residents come in, tour our facilities and once they continued on page 8
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continued from page 7 decide this is where they want to call ‘home’, sign a contract that essentially ensures they will be taken care of for the rest of their lives,” Lloyd explains. “Applicants agree to an examination by our medical director which assesses their level of functional independence. What’s so wonderful and reassuring is that once they move in, whether individuals or couples, they know that regardless of what the future brings, they will be cared for in familiar surroundings amongst family and friends. The resident contract guarantees on-going care even if they should run out of funds. “At Friendship Village we offer independent living, skilled nursing, memory care, and boarding care (similar to assisted living),” notes Lloyd.
Gracious Independence Independent living apartments are offered in a variety of sizes and floor plans ranging from a comfortable alcove to spacious one-, two- or three-bedroom apartments. Featuring the latest in modern conveniences these elegant homes offer optional garages, including underground parking. “Residents are pleased to discover our elegant and very contemporary apartments are custom– decorated to suit individual tastes,” says Lloyd. “You may even choose the addition of an electric fireplace. These personal touches make each apartment truly feel like home. Three meals served daily, one meal of your choice is at no additional cost and there are lovely dining options including the main dining room and Village Café. The Highwood Room provides a nice place to meet for socializing before or after dinner.
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Too Sick for Assisted Living? Medical Care Can Be Uneven By Barbara Basler, AARP Bulletin Today
N
early half of aging Americans in assisted living facilities have medical needs that exceed the kind of care these residences provide, and yet family and the residents themselves are not adequately warned of those limitations, according to a new study led by doctors at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. The findings, reported in the October issue of the Journal of the American Medical Directors Association, were accompanied by an editorial declaring that in many cases, assisted living residents look very much like nursing home patients. “The public is still not getting a balanced picture of the variability, capabilities and limitations of assisted living,” says Steven A. Levenson, M.D., medical director of the city of Baltimore, in the journal’s editorial. More than 1 million Americans live in 36,000 assisted living facilities, according to the Center for Excellence in Assisted Living. The residences, with their welcoming, often well-appointed common rooms and private apartments, have become a popular option for older people who need some help with daily activities such as bathing and dressing but who don’t need to be in a nursing home. Still, the Hopkins study of nearly 200 residents in 22 assisted living facilities in Maryland found that 46 percent of the men and women in these facilities had three or more serious chronic conditions such as heart disease, emphysema and diabetes. Besides reviewing medical charts, researchers also interviewed the residents, their families and the staff of each home.
or licensed practical nurses on staff, and most of them worked during the day. At night, medical emergencies were handled by calling an ambulance and taking the resident to the hospital. Researchers found that almost half of the assisted living residents were taking medications—the blood thinner Coumadin, for example—that require frequent monitoring to ensure safety, including blood tests and other laboratory work, as well as regular consultations with physicians. And yet, many assisted living homes have no doctors and often no nurses, the study points out. McNabney says many residents in assisted living “do just fine, but the key is to make sure everyone in these homes is receiving the level of care they need—when they move in and down the road as those needs increase.” When Lucinda Conger’s 74-year-old mother began showing signs of dementia, Conger moved her into an assisted living residence in Washington, D.C. The plan was for her mother to live out her life there, close to her daughter, cared for and protected. But after less than a year, her mother needed more care, and management told Conger she had to hire nurses for continued on page 17
“There is a real difference between assisting with dressing and bathing, and overseeing, evaluating and guiding chronic medical conditions,” says Matthew K. McNabney, M.D., a geriatrician at Johns Hopkins and lead author of the study. Assisted living facilities are marketed as homelike and comfortable. Moreover, families prefer them and want to believe that the residences will take care of their aging relative from admission to death, which generally is not the case. Older people who are growing more dependent generally have multiple health conditions, McNabney points out, not just one. And the cumulative effect of those conditions “creates a real medical challenge,” he says. As an internist who treats patients in assisted living, McNabney says he has “great interest in the management of medical issues, particularly chronic illnesses that are progressive and can become unstable.” Residents with unstable medical conditions are not considered good candidates for assisted living homes because the homes usually have a limited medical staff. Only 54.4 percent of the residences in the survey had registered nurses
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Vision and Hearing Loss in the Elderly The Impact is Often Underestimated By Joan Aasve
I
t is important for everyone to have their hearing and vision checked on a regular basis. However, the impact on elders who have vision and/or hearing loss can be great. Regular check-ups and treatment should be a priority. “As we age, our sensory systems gradually lose their sharpness. Because our brain requires a minimal amount of input to remain alert and functioning, sensory loss for older adults puts them at risk for sensory deprivation. Severe sensory impairments, such as in vision or hearing, may result in behavior similar to dementia and psychosis, such as increased disorientation and confusion. Added restrictions, such as confinement to bed, increase this risk. With nothing to show the passage of time, or changes in the environment, the sensory deprived person may resort to repetitive problem behaviors (calling out, chanting, rhythmic pounding/rocking) as an attempt to reduce the sense of deprivation and to create internal stimulation/sensations.” (Joseph M. Casciani, PhD, Concept Healthcare) Often elderly people remain impaired in hospitals because no one thinks to ask whether they are missing their glasses or hearing aids. It follows that many elders living in their
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own home, senior housing, or a nursing home could show signs of dementia as a result of undiagnosed hearing or vision loss. “Every geriatrician has seen at least one person who was initially assessed as having dementia but who was in fact just deaf.” (Aging and Geriatrics Volume 3, Number 8, October 2000 page 5)
The Elderly and Vision Loss Many elders who are visually impaired, including nursing home residents, are losing out on stimulation. They may not be able to see the television, read books or interact appropriately. “Vision problems make it difficult for a person to function and can aggravate symptoms of dementia.” (James M. Koch, M.D., Internal Medicine at Saint Louis University) Koch interviewed nearly 100 nursing home patients in a recent study and determined that one third of them were not using glasses or did not have a prescription strong enough to correct their eyesight.
Signs of Vision Loss • An increased sensitivity to light and glare (such as continued on page 19
Because Healthy Vision Goes Beyond 20/20: An Overview of Glaucoma By: Dr. Amy Rudser
M
any people brag about having perfect 20/20 vision. But perfect vision doesn’t necessarily mean perfect ocular health. Regular eye exams are an important part of your general preventative health care. And, as it turns out most major medical insurances cover an eye exam every one or two years, which you’ve already paid for with your monthly premiums!
Dr. Amy Rudser is an optometrist who practices full scope optometry at Advanced Eye Care Professionals in Lakeville, MN. www.dryamyrudser.com
What is Glaucoma? Glaucoma is a silent eye disease where the pressure in the eye gets too high, which slowly and permanently damages the optic nerve. With little to no symptoms, most people assume that they don’t have Glaucoma; however, it affects nearly 3 million people in the United States. There are many types of glaucoma, and is more specifically identified by what is causing the pressure in the eye to be too high. Although you may think that you would notice an increased pressure in your eye, you actually don’t feel any different, or see any differently until the disease has progressed quite a bit. Most forms, including the most common type, Primary Open Angle Glaucoma, really have little to no symptoms to watch for until there is already a significant amount of damage—which is why regular eye exams are so important. How does Glaucoma affect my vision? It affects side vision, starting at the outer most peripheral portion and continues to move in/forward to progress to tunnel vision and ultimately blindness if it goes untreated and unchecked. Each eye’s peripheral vision significantly overlaps the opposite eye, so you’re still seeing a full picture when you’re looking at things even though there may be some vision loss in one eye. However, even if you do have a significant amount of damage from Glaucoma you’re still probably seeing 20/20 straight ahead. Think Kirby Puckett. Is it treatable? Glaucoma is a very well-researched disease. Although Glaucoma can’t be cured, it can be controlled. Typically we treat Glaucoma with drops that work to lower the pressure in your eye. Additionally, there are surgical procedures that are sometimes done in conjunction with the medical treatment (drops) to help manage it. Bottom line: Glaucoma is a very treatable disease and the best visual prognosis is to catch it early. Make sure to see an eye doctor for regular exams to prevent any unnecessary progression of the disease and ensure your optimal ocular health
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What’s Happening Volume 1 2009
Mankato Area Date: Every 2nd & 4th Thursday at 6:30 p.m.; NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) SUPPORT GROUPS, one is for the person with the illness & the other is for family members & close friends. They meet at Bethel Baptist Church, 1250 Monks Ave. Mankato, . Please call Julie Soper with questions, (507)317-3595. Date: Thursdays 7 p.m.; OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS meet. at Christ The King Lutheran Church 207 McConnell St., Mankato. Info: Heidi L, (507)381-7901. SUPPORT GROUP FOR WOMEN who are victims/survivors of sexual violence. Mankato area. Contact Emily Bittner at Crime Victim Services for dates, times & locations, (507)934-2222. Alexandria Area Date: 4th Thursday at 7:00 p.m.; Fibromyalgia Support Group Alexandria, MN Douglas County Hospital Education Room. For More information contact Jan Halverson (320)763-5217 Date: 4th Monday from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.; Grieving Parents (of all ages) Support Group - Alexandria Area. Alexandria Clinic, Medical Conference Center. Kathryn Fischer, RN Advisory Council for Grieving Parents (320)763-5781 Date: 2nd Tuesday of each month from 2-4 p.m.; Caregivers Support Group, First Lutheran Church/ Family Room, 822 Douglas St. Alexandria, MN 56308 Mary Krueger @ (320)762-3047 Date: 2nd Monday from 5:00-6:30 p.m.; Multiple Sclerosis Support Group St. Mary's Office Building 420 Irving St in Alexandria, MN. Dennis @ (320)763-5009 or Deb @ (320)859-5610. Detroit Lakes Area Date: Last Thursday of each month; Alzheimer’s Support Group 12:00 noon - 1:30 p.m. at Winchester on Washington, second floor. 1051 Washington Avenue, Detroit Lakes, MN For more information about memory loss or the Alzheimer’s Support Group, please call: Karin Fritz-Staley, LSW at (218) 844-8376. MS Support Group; For information about MS or the support group, please call: Patti Cummins, Nursing Center at (218) 847-0820. Vision Loss Support Group; Date: Second Thursday of every month; at Lincoln Park Assisted Living Game Room, 208 Oak Street, Detroit Lakes, MN 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. Each month a new topic of interest to people with vision problems will be discussed. For more information, please call: Karin Fritz-Staley, LSW at (218) 844-8376. Duluth Area Date: April 26-28, 2009; 2009 Child & Adolescent
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Mental Health Conference; Duluth Entertainment Convention Center. Minnesota Association for Children's Mental Health More Information: macmh.org Date: First Tuesday of the month; CANCER CARE SUPPORT GROUP For cancer patients and their families. St. Luke's Lakeview Building, Fourth Floor. 1001 East Superior Street. No charge. For more information, call (218)249-5489. Date: First Thursday of each month; HEART TO HEART SUPPORT GROUP For heart patients and their families. St. Luke's Lakeview Building, Fourth Floor. 1001 East Superior Street. No charge. RSVP requested. For more information, call (218)249-5167. Date: First Monday of each month; BREAST CANCER SUPPORT GROUP For breast cancer patients and their families. St. Luke’s Cancer Center, Lakeview Building, 1001 East Superior Street, First Floor. For more information, call (218)249.5361. No charge. DIABETES SUPPORT GROUP For people with diabetes and their families. No charge. For information on dates and times and to pre-register, call (218)249-5231. Date: Second Saturday of each month; DULUTH AREA OSTOMY SUPPORT GROUP For patients, families and others interested in learning about ostomies. For more information, call (218)392.8498. No charge. Brain Tumor Support Group Duluth area: (218)7864230 Breast Cancer Support Group (218)786-3346 Minneapolis area Date: February 19 2009; Go Red For Women Luncheon American Heart Association/ American Stroke Association. Go Red For Women is the American Heart Association's national movement to empower women to join together to wipe out heart disease. This event features inspiring speakers, educational workshops, and elegant dining to raise awareness and funding for research. Love red, go red, save lives. Americanheart.org/twincitiesgoredluncheon. At The Depot, Minneapolis; (952)278-7701 Date: February 21 2009; The Arcademy Gala, Arc Greater Twin Cities. The second annual Arcademy Gala will feature silent and live auctions, fabulous entertainment, dinner and dancing. Join us on the red carpet and experience the glitz and glamour while helping people with disabilities and their families through arc Greater Twin Cities. For more information: arcgreatertwincities.org. At the Hyatt Regency, Minneapolis Date: February 26, 2009; 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. HIV, Hepatitis & Chemical Health Fair Sponsored by Twin Cities HOPE (Health through Outreach & Prevention
In Minnesota
Education) at Recovery Resource Center, 1900 Chicago Avenue South. Minneapolis, MN 55404
floor conference room. Bethesda Hospital 559 Capitol Blvd. St. Paul, MN 55103. For more information, call (651)232-2128.
February 27, 2009; Minnesota Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Midwife Student Conference "Keys to a Successful Transition into Advanced Practice Nursing”, University of Minnesota Continuing Education. McNamara Alumni Center, University of Minnesota. More Information: nursing.umn.edu
St Cloud Area Date: Second Tuesday of each month; Breast Friends Breast Center Education and Support GroupS; Time: at 8 a.m. at A Taste of Seattle in St. Cloud.
Date: Wednesdays at 7 p.m.; The Friends and Family Community Support Group – Mental Illness Minneapolis MN. Interested participants should meet at Hennepin County Medical Center, on Level 5 of the Blue Building, in the waiting area near the blue elevator. For more information, contact: Kenn, RN, or Gaida, RN, at (612)8734320 or (612)873-2930. Date: Second Tuesday of each month from 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.; The Hennepin Diabetes Support Group offers information and discussion about diabetes related topics. This group meets on the in the Hennepin Center for Diabetes and Endocrinology, which is located on the first floor of the Shapiro Building. For more information, please call (612)873-6800. St Paul Area Date: March 9-11, 2009; MMGMA 2009 Winter Conference, Minnesota Medical Group Management Association. Saint Paul River Centre. More Information: mmgma.org Date: Each Tuesday, Family Support Group Time: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.; Location: Bethesda Hospital, 7th Floor Conference room. Bethesda Hospital 559 Capitol Blvd. St. Paul, MN 55103 Date: Fourth Thursday of each month; Caregiver support group for families living with dementia. Time: 10 am to noon. Location: Bethesda Hospital, B-Level Conference Room Bethesda Hospital 559 Capitol Blvd. St. Paul, MN 55103.For more information, call (651)326-2178. Date: Second Tuesday of each month; Parkinson's Support Group; Time: 10 a.m. to noon Location: Bethesda Hospital, 7th floor conference room. Bethesda Hospital, 559 Capitol Blvd. St.Paul, MN 55103. For more information, call 651-232-2098. Date: First Wednesday of each month; Spinal Cord Injury Support Group Time: 6 to 8 p.m. Location: Bethesda Hospital, 7th floor conference room. Bethesda Hospital 559 Capitol Blvd. St. Paul, MN 55103.For more information, call (651)232-2128. Date: First Thursday of each month. Stroke Support Group: Time: 2 to 4 p.m. Location: Bethesda Hospital, 7th
Date: Third Monday of each month; Breast Cancer Survivor Group, St Cloud, MN. Time: 6:30-8 p.m. Please contact Juli Sanner, RN, OCN, at (320)229-5199, ext, 71693 for more information. Date: Third Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m.; Caregivers Support Group for Seniors Meets at the Whitney Senior Center. Brenda Turner, (320)252-0010, ext. 30354 Date: Third Tuesday of every other month; A.W.A.K.E. Support Group Time: 6:30 to 8 p.m. January, March, May, July, September and November. If you have questions or would like more information, please call (320)251-0726. Us, Too St. Cloud, MN This support group is open to men who have experienced prostate cancer—spouses are also welcome. Contact John Wolfe at the Adult and Pediatric Urology Clinic at (320)203-6919 for current meeting schedule Road to Recovery. This new American Cancer Society program provides a trained volunteer to drive cancer patients to and from cancer treatment. Contact the local American Cancer Society office at (320)255-0220 for more information on the program. Date: Third Tuesday of each month; Families with Special Needs Children Support Group Families of children with special medical needs are invited to attend the CentraCare Family Connection - Families Special Health Care Needs Network meeting. Time: The group meets from 7-9 p.m. in the lower level at the CentraCare Health Plaza, 1900 CentraCare Circle. For more information, contact group facilitators John and Brianna Inkster at (320) 230-2068. Chronic Pain & Fibromyalgia Program The Fibromyalgia Clinic at St. Cloud Hospital offers a group for people with fibromyalgia. Topics covered include: understanding pain, medication and nutrition, breathing and relaxation training, mindfulness meditation, sleep management and imagery. There is a small cost for the group, which in many cases, is covered by insurance. For more information about the group, including dates and times, please contact, Brad Kuhlman, Ph.D., L.P. or Chris Waitt, M.S., L.P. at: (320)251-2700, ext. 23821. Rochester Area Date: March 25, 2009; 26th Annual Minnesota Geriatric Care Conference. Mayo Clinic, Mayo Civic Center, Rochester. More Information: mayo.edu
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continued from page 8 Artfully situated around the peaceful pond, Parkview Townhomes offer a wonderful opportunity for residents to select a larger home with attached garages. Townhome residents enjoy all of the services and amenities offered in the main building. Lush landscaping is immaculately cared for while residents enjoy other pursuits. However, for those who long to stimulate that green thumb, garden beds near entries or one of the 40 raised beds within the resident garden offer the perfect venue. Residents are free to actually enjoy their new home without worrying about shoveling snow, mowing the lawn, or washing windows. At Friendship Village, we take care of the chores; from housekeeping and flat laundry service to routine maintenance and grounds-keeping so residents are free to get out and enjoy the day!” And what a myriad of opportunities await! Residents stay as busy or relaxed as they choose. For those who enjoy working with their hands there is a fully equipped woodworking shop. Residents might start their day with an early morning workout on the ergonomically efficient exercise equipment, in the clean, modern Fitness Center, or attend a committee meeting. “There is so much to do here, truly it’s like a small town,” observes Lloyd. “The socializing is ongoing whether in the Billiards Room, Highwood Room Lounge, fully-stocked library, memoir writing class, computer lab or on the putting green!” Evening dinner/dance parties are not to be missed -- excellent food and music for dancing are provided in the large hall that reminds one of a hotel ballroom. There is also a beauty and barbershop, on-site banking, and scheduled transportation as well as planned outings to shopping, museums, theater, restaurants, and professional sports events. Well-known and highly credentialed guest lecturers are invited by the Exploring Ideas committee. Past lecturers have covered such topics as mass transportation, the human genome factor, Minnesota geology, various learning processes, toxins in the environment, art & religion, economics and the postal service. Skilled Care At Your Fingertips It’s always comforting to know that, should you need it, help is close at hand. That’s exactly the security and peace of mind residents of Friendship Village enjoy.. Offering the comfort and convenience of an on-site, fully equipped, state-licensed Health Care Center, Highwood Park provides emergency, restorative, and long-term nursing care. Highwood Park features five residential neighborhoods offering varying levels of health care. Maple, Linden, and Tamarack are the Medicare certified facilities while Aspen and Red Pine offer Boarding Care levels with Red Pine focusing on those with memory impairment. “What’s so significant about having these healthcare facilities within Friendship Village is that, particularly in the case of couples, there’s no real separation,” notes Lloyd. “Should one of the spouses require short-term or even ongoing care they are still nearby so visiting is convenient. This is wonderfully comforting to both parties.” The Home Care nursing staff is also available to visit residents within their apartments or townhomes offering assistance with grooming, medication, and other concerns while allowing them to remain in their own home. They also offer appointments on site for various medical practitioners, saving residents a trip across town.
Gold Age Magazine
Retirement Redefined As one of the eleven Life Care Retirement Communities, Inc. (LCRC), Friendship Village reflects the rigorous standards for quality, integrity, responsibility and accountability established by the Continuing Care Accreditation Commission (CCAC). It’s important to note that only 15% of all continuing care retirement communities in the country are accredited by CCAC, it’s an accreditation in which Friendship Village takes great pride. The Mission of Life Care Retirement Communities, Inc. is to create communities that celebrate the lives of seniors. And, while there may be many “retirement” communities throughout the country, only true Life Care communities afford seniors the peace of mind that comes with long-term health care as part of the contract. Based in Des Moines, Iowa, Life Care Retirement Communities, Inc. was founded in 1976 as a guiding sponsor for newly developed, not-for-profit retirement communities. The goal was simple — help create exceptional, financially sound communities so that people might enjoy a more rewarding and secure retirement. As the fifth largest provider of senior housing in the country, LCRC has endeavored to create environments that encourage individual growth while also providing a concrete program that ensures quality care regardless of what the future might bring. “Looking to the future, we will continue to seek out programs and services that will promote excellence,” says Meyer. “We are dedicated to creating limitless possibilities for the present and the future here at Friendship Village.” For more information on Friendship Village please call (952) 831-7500 or visit www.friendshipvillagemn.com.
Gold Age Magazine
Beltone Listens To Customers Offers Personalized Presentations To Your Company!
By Susan Cushing
Since 1940, Beltone has been the premier name in hearing health care. Today, with more than 1,450 offices in North America alone, Beltone products are sold in more than 40 countries worldwide. Not only does Beltone stand as the most trusted name for quality products in the industry, but also for its superior care and customer support. John Wesenberg, Manager of Hearing Health Care Programs for Beltone USA clarifies this asset. “Not only are services available through our individual Beltone providers, but in addition, my department can work with companies on regional or national hearing programs for their individual populations.” It’s quite common in fact for corporations, assisted living communities, and other interested factions to request on-site presentations. According to Wesenberg, this is where his department steps in with assistance. “We facilitate coordination between your facility and a local Beltone provider for on-site informational meetings. The majority of our providers are more than happy to provide presentations, attend health fairs, or other informational seminars. I say ‘most’ only because there are some Beltone providers whose business model is such that they simply do not have the staff to provide these extraneous services. But we always strive to offer as much support, information, and training as our alliances require.” Sustaining their prominence in this critical area of heath care, Beltone hearing aids are developed using only the latest hearing technology and are designed to fit just about any lifestyle and hearing loss. As a matter of fact, Beltone has been helping the hearing impaired for over 65 years and is part of one of the largest hearing aid company in the world with a substantial provider network all easily identified with the Beltone name. “The Beltone brand name is extremely well recognized by consumers,” notes Wesenberg, “and is #1 in top-of-mind brand awareness among adults 50+. Beltone is the hearing aid brand people trust for the highest quality product and services.” Obviously, with an entire national department dedicated to providing customized services, benefits and discount programs are a big focus at Beltone. Whether you are a program contractor or a plan member looking for information, Beltone has something for you. In addition to personalized service, world-renowned brand recognition, and a long history of quality care and strong customer support, all Beltone hearing instruments come with the exclusive BelCare™ commitment. This is recognized in the industry as one of the most comprehensive aftercare programs available. From the very first hearing screening through all the years of use with Beltone hearing instruments, BelCare™ assures a lifetime of attention at any one of Beltone's participating hearing care centers nationwide. No other company offers the same level of commitment. For more information please contact: John Wesenberg, Manager of Hearing Health Care Plans Beltone USA Phone: 1-800-621-1275, ext. 3833 Email wesenbergj@beltone.com Or visit them online at: www.Beltone.com
Gold Age Magazine
continued from page 9 her. That wasn’t enough. After three years of paying for nursing help, Conger was told that her mother’s health had so deteriorated that she needed to be moved out. “We had to find another assisted living home,” she says. “It really isn’t always clear from the start how much care people in these homes will receive, and there was a big difference in the first residence and the second one we had my mother in,” Conger says. “The second one had nurses on staff, it monitored medications and had all kinds of services we didn’t get in the first.” In his editorial, Levenson strikes a related theme. “As with nursing homes, many assisted living facilities perform admirably,” he writes. “However, overall performance across the country is uneven and often problematic.” The industry itself is cognizant of this growing discrepancy between what assisted living facilities offer and what more and more residents actually need.
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“People want to age in place— they don’t want to go to nursing homes. And that desire to stay For more information please contact where they are is contributing to Beltone Hearing Health Care this discrepancy,” says Steve Maag, at 1-800-BELTONE director of assisted living and (1-800-235-8663) ext. 3833 continuing care at the American Association of Homes and Services with money from a federal grant, is creating a disclosure form, for the Aging in Washington, an industry group of nonprofit which Maag says will allow consumers to compare the types of care facilities. “This trend has been common knowledge for services and levels of medical care each assisted living facility years,” he says. offers. He says the disclosure document could be in use as early As for the variability in medical services—from real as the end of 2009. continuing care to very limited health care—Maag says assisted “The key message is to do your research when you are living facilities are regulated on a state-by-state basis; while looking at assisted living options. Don’t just take the most some states have strong oversight rules on medical care, others attractive home,” says McNabney. “Ask how the facility manages do not. complex medical needs and how will they handle these needs But, he stressed, the industry is trying to address the issue as the resident grows frailer and sicker. The capabilities of the by adding more trained staff and adapting its services. “And facility need to be out there on the table to help consumers we want to give consumers more information about what is make the right decision.” actually offered at each residence,” Maag says. Barbara Basler is a senior editor at AARP Bulletin Today. “The industry now is working with state agencies and consumer groups to develop a uniform disclosure statement for consumers,” he says. The University of North Carolina,
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Involving Baby Boomers in their Communities By: Ann Terlizzi, Vision Loss Resources
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he ‘Baby Boomers Retire!’ headline has been all over the news for the last several years. What is next for these individuals? How will our health care system, social services system and housing systems cope with the soaring population? Another question being asking, albeit more softly, is how do we capture the talents, skills, passions and time of these folks to better our communities? What is it that folks of the Baby Boomer generation want and need in volunteer opportunities in their neighborhoods or assistive living facilities? According to 2007 numbers, Minnesota ranks #3 in the nation for volunteerism at 39.7% just behind Nebraska and Utah. The Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area ranks #1 in the county for large cities volunteerism at 39.3% according to the Corporation for National and Community Service. What this means is that our citizens have a successful and established volunteerism network to tap into if they want to explore opportunities. Volunteer Coordinators have been asking themselves and their volunteers what this specific population needs and wants in volunteer opportunities. There are several key points that have come out of these discussions: • The chance to use a skill or talent that retirees have cultivated for many years either in the workforce or home. • A schedule that is very flexible to accommodate travel, family or medical needs. • The opportunity not only to give back but to contribute in a meaningful way to an agency such as helping create a new program, make an existing one more efficient or enjoyable. • Other benefits such as providing transportation for the volunteer, continued education opportunities and a strong support staff for the volunteer are also key components desired by volunteers. By addressing these concerns, agencies will be better situated to serve the volunteer’s needs while forwarding their mission and serving their clients. One of the first questions a new volunteer often asks is ‘How do I find volunteer opportunities?’ Each community will be slightly different but there are some excellent ways to get started in this search:
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• Some communities have a Volunteer Center that helps match prospective volunteers with agencies in need of assistance. In the Twin Cities Metro area, Hands on Twin Cities is an excellent resource to help begin a search. www. handsontwincities.org (612) 379-4900 • Many of the Baby Boomer generation will be computer literate and able to access information on the internet. Agencies can post current opportunities on sites such as Volunteer Match (www.volunteermatch.com), Craigslist’s Community section (www.craigslist.com) or Hands on Twin Cities website. • If you are active in a religious organization, school or other community based group ask fellow group members if they volunteer or know of any opportunities connected to your group. • Simply calling an organization of interest and asking what sort of volunteer opportunities are available is another way to learn about options. It is a good idea for the potential volunteer to have an idea of what sort of work would be of interest to them or a population or service area they would like to impact. The environment, education, people with disabilities or health care are just some examples. Also knowing what sort of schedule would work is helpful in narrowing down the opportunities. Whether you are looking for opportunities for yourself, a friend or client or looking to expand a volunteer program at an assistive living facility keeping these elements in mind can help create sustainable volunteer involvement. Ann Terlizzi is the Director of Volunteer Services with Vision Loss Resources. She can be reached at aterlizzi@vlrw. org or 612-871-2222
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Meditran Systems • 15105 Minnetonka Industrial Road, Suite 113 Minnetonka, MN 55345 • Call: 952-201-1463 www.meditransystems.com continued from page 10 difficulty reading glossy magazines or an increased need to use sunglasses). • Difficulty distinguishing colors (mismatched clothes, socks, etc). • More clumsiness than usual (bumping into objects and people, missing steps and falling more often, having difficulty finding food on a plate or threading a needle). • Difficulty distinguishing objects from each other. • Straight lines that appear wavy, such as the sides of a building. • Difficulty recognizing faces or seeing the TV as well as they used to see it. Vision loss is highest among older people and is increasing each year – the number of seniors with vision loss is expected to double in the next 25 years. But the truth is that in most of these cases, vision loss could have been prevented and treated if caught early.
The Elderly and Hearing Loss Age-related hearing loss causes problems with communication that have been associated with depression and social isolation. While treatment options exist, prevention by early identification is the best strategy.
Signs of Hearing Loss • Finds it difficult to follow conversations when two or more people are talking. • Needs to turn up the television volume so loud that others complain. • Has a problem hearing because of background noise. • Thinks other people are mumbling when they're not. About one-third of Americans between the ages of 65 and 74 have hearing problems. About half the people who are over 85 have hearing loss. Whether a hearing loss is small (missing certain sounds) or large (being profoundly deaf ), it is a serious concern. If left untreated, problems can get worse.
Conclusion Family members and caregivers need to be aware of how vision and hearing loss can manifest itself as dementia and cause other behavior issues. To minimize the emotional, behavioral, and attitudinal impact hearing and visual losses may have on older adults, family members and caregivers should develop insights and approaches that take the special needs into account. This can be done by talking to a professional or selfeducation. For further information please contact: ElderCare Rights Alliance (952)854-7304. www.eldercarerights.org
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The ISSCR Releases New Guidelines to Shape Future of Stem Cell Therapy By: Meagan Comerford
Regulation needed as new study reveals clinics exaggerate claims and omit risks
T
he International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR), the world’s leading professional organization of stem cell researchers, released new guidelines for the responsible development of safe and effective stem cell therapies for patients. A Commentary article that summarizes the Guidelines for the Clinical Translation of Stem Cells will be published by Cell Press in the December issue of Cell Stem Cell, the official affiliated journal of the ISSCR. These guidelines define a roadmap for medical researchers and doctors, outlining what needs to be accomplished to move stem cells from promising research to proven treatments for patients. The new guidelines will accelerate the translation of stem cell research into practice while addressing associated scientific, clinical, regulatory, ethical and social issues. Founded on core principles of scientific rigor and ethical conduct, the recommendations offered in the guidelines include an insistence on expert evaluation and independent oversight, a thorough informed consent process to provide patients with essential information on the unique aspects of stem cell-based treatments, and transparency in reporting of clinical trial results. “Our guidelines will arm patients and their doctors with the information they need to make decisions about whether to seek stem cell treatments,” said Dr. Olle Lindvall, co-chair of the ISSCR task force that developed the guidelines and professor in clinical neurology at the University of Lund. “Stem cell research holds tremendous promise for the development of novel therapies for many serious diseases. However, as clinicians and scientists, we recognize an urgent need to address the problem of unproven stem cell treatments being marketed directly to patients.” Too often rogue clinics around the world exploit patients’ hopes by offering unproven stem cell therapies, typically for large sums of money and without credible scientific rationale, oversight or patient protections. This concern is further emphasized in a Correspondence article from Dr. Timothy Caulfield and colleagues of the University of Alberta, Canada, which also appears in the December issue of Cell Stem Cell. A content analysis of claims made on 19 Web sites offering so-called “stem cell therapies” was performed to assess the portrayal of the services offered by each organization. In addition, the authors assessed whether these claims are substantiated by research reported in the professional medical literature. The authors provide clear
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evidence that the vast majority of the clinics examined overpromise results and gravely underestimate the potential risks of their offered treatments. The ISSCR’s new guidelines establish standards that can be used to judge the claims made by stem cell clinics and whether the treatments they offer are being developed responsibly. The ISSCR also offers a handbook for patients and their doctors evaluating a stem cell therapy. The ISSCR urges governments and regulatory bodies to enact the recommendations outlined in these guidelines. The guidelines call for countries without an official regulatory body to develop a way to monitor new stem cell-based treatments, and the ISSCR has offered to advise agencies that want to build these regulatory capacities. “Regulators have a responsibility to prevent exploitation of patients in their jurisdictions, and where necessary, to close fraudulent clinics and take disciplinary action against the doctors involved,” said Dr. George Q. Daley, immediate pastpresident of the ISSCR and associate director of the Stem Cell Program at Children’s Hospital Boston. To develop these new guidelines, the ISSCR convened an international task force of experts in stem cell science, clinical research and bioethics from 13 countries. The task force was led by Dr. Lindvall and Dr. Insoo Hyun, ISSCR member and associate professor of bioethics at the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. “Our task force has captured the most current, comprehensive thinking on translational stem cell research. The result – these new guidelines – will be valuable for all members of the stem cell community,” said Dr. Fiona Watt, president of the ISSCR. Patients, medical researchers, regulators and those interested should visit the ISSCR’s Web site at www.isscr.org to see the Guidelines, a handbook for patients and more information on stem cell research. In addition, the content of the Guidelines is digested in the Commentary article authored by the task force, which is available online at www.cellstemcell.com/. The International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) is an independent, nonprofit membership organization established to promote and foster the exchange and dissemination of information and ideas relating to stem cells, to encourage the general field of research involving stem cells and to promote professional and public education in all areas of stem cell research and application. Meagan Comerford, ISSCR (847) 509-1944 mcomerford@isscr.org
Strengthening Employment Outcomes for Rural Women With Disabilities By: Martha Carstensen
W
omen with disabilities who live in rural communities face complicated challenges in obtaining productive employment that pays a livable wage. A high unemployment rate for women with disabilities in rural communities is associated with a variety of factors that remain constant in each rural geographic region. This article will examine some of the difficulties and opportunities particular to seeking small town/rural paid employment, factors in achieving positive employment outcomes, and options for support networks to enhance work opportunities and successful outcomes for women with disabilities.
Barriers to Employment According to the Association of Programs for Rural Independent Living (APRIL), “decades after the advent of the independent living and disability rights movements, transportation remains the number one issue for people with disabilities living in rural areas.� Transportation funding in rural states is often limited to the population centers of those
states. Women with disabilities outside those population centers often rely on family members to assist them with transportation, without appropriate financial reimbursement or effective coordination. This does not result in the reliable transportation needed to maintain employment, intensifying the disadvantages for women with disabilities in finding competitive employment in their rural communities. An additional barrier to employment can be found in the under-availability of support services. In reviewing support services in rural states, funding concentrates services to the larger population centers, leaving outreach at a minimum in rural areas, with understaffed satellite offices trying to serve high-need rural communities. With current funding limitations, these satellite offices have staff who service large geographic areas and high caseloads. This reality requires women with disabilities to have advocacy skills and reliable transportation to access these support services in rural continued on page 22
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continued from page 21 communities. Absence of these creates accessibility barriers and community isolation. Women with disabilities who do access assistance despite the barriers do so with the tenacity that is an icon of rural living by connecting with the strong social network of small town living. Interdependence is the foundation of this social network in rural communities. Women with disabilities who are part of this interconnectedness of community get their needs met, while those who are not interconnected live in isolation.
Building Partnerships Schools, community service providers, employers, and families can enhance work opportunities and successful outcomes for women with disabilities by identifying the barriers and then focusing on solutions in partnership. This partnership connects all support systems within the social network of rural America, braiding and blending personnel and services by using public and private dollars to enhance access to employment opportunities for rural women with disabilities. Community services such as Independent Living Centers are an ideal choice to take a lead role in the development of this partnership since they are often the hub for people with disabilities in rural communities. Schools are another; mandated through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to provide transition services to youth with disabilities, their services can be strengthened by partnerships with CILs, businesses, and self-advocacy and other organizations as part of their transition services. Together these partners can create multiple points of entry into the employment support system, and help women develop the skills (including self-advocacy, self-determination, and social networking skills) to access them. For instance, entrepreneurial opportunities abound in rural communities and by establishing a mentor network to help women learn a marketable trade, agencies, businesses, schools and community organizations working together can help women with disabilities make a livable wage by building their own ventures with guidance and persistence. Partnerships can also address the rural transportation barriers through innovative approaches such as mobility management (also called coordinated mobility). This is a model for expanding transportation options that combines the resources of human service, employment, non-profit, business, transit, and other entities in a locale to collaboratively coordinate and deliver transportation services (McLary, 2005; Grande, 2005). And partnerships between schools and service providers can provide training that grows the use of technology such as the Internet by women with disabilities, changing the course of how rural women access work and compete in the global market.
Personal Networking In rural America networking is a daily activity. Social networks become employment networks, and learning how
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to capitalize on this connection is essential to building selfdetermination and employment opportunities for women with disabilities. One example of how social networking can assist women in gaining meaningful employment is the ability to obtain customized employment through job carving or shaping that creates a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the employer/employee relationship. This concept is more acceptable to an employer when they and the employee have an established relationship. Since social networking is an essential component of job acquisition, rural communities provide an advantage by nature for women with disabilities through offering natural opportunities to interact with the same people on a recurring basis and build relationships.
Conclusion Building organizational partnerships, and assisting women with disabilities to build and participate in interdependent networks, are key to supporting rural women with disabilities to find long-term employment and shift from poverty to self-reliance. Living and working in a rural setting with strengthened community support now is a viable option that can afford economic well-being for women with disabilities. 

References Association of Programs for Rural Independent Living (APRIL) (2008). Rural transportation. Retrieved September 22, 2008, from www.april-rural.org/transportation.html Grande, S. (2005). Creating rural transportation in Maryland: Delmarva Community Services. Impact: Feature Issue on Meeting Transportation Needs of Youth and Adults with Developmental Disabilities, 18(3). [Minneapolis: Institute on Community Integration, University of Minnesota]. Retrieved 9/24/08 from http://ici.umn.edu/products/impact/183/ McLary, J. (2005). Mobility management: Maximizing resources through collaboration. Impact: Feature Issue on Meeting Transportation Needs of Youth and Adults with Developmental Disabilities, 18(3). [Minneapolis: Institute on Community Integration, University of Minnesota]. Retrieved 9/24/08 from http://ici.umn.edu/products/impact/183/ Martha Carstensen is Director of the Equity Outreach Project, Montana Center on Disabilities, Montana State University, Billings. She may be reached at 888/866-2312 or mcarstensen@ msubillings.edu. For more information visit www.msubillings. edu/equityoutreach. Â Reprinted with permission from "Impact: Feature Issue on Employment and Women with Disabilities" (Summer/Fall 2008), published by the Institute on Community Integration, University of Minnesota. The entire issue is available athttp:// ici.umn.edu/products/impact/211Â or by calling 612-6244512.
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