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The Best Of Times
April 2009
Welcome to our third annual Special Issue for CAREGIVERS. This particular edition is dedicated to those who suffer from Alzheimer’s Disease and those who help care for them. Bless you all. On a happier note, WE HAVE A WINNER in our “Oldest Issue” Contest! Gladys Reynolds of Shreveport proudly showed off her pristine copy of the February 2003 issue of The Best of Times. With that issue we introduced our new name. Formerly, we were known as Senior Scene News. (Yawn...) See page 9 for more about our gracious winner. Gary and I just returned from California, where we mixed and mingled with show biz veterans, including an 85-year-old dancer (who doesn’t look a day over 65) and who’s still tap-dancing her way into everyone’s hearts. But that, dear readers, is a story for a travel feature in an upcoming issue. We continue to hear from readers who seem to like the design changes. Thank you for your enthusiasm. We always love to hear feedback..what you like, what you don’t like and, especially, topics that you would like to see us address in the future. We have long thought of this magazine as being “alive” (we really do call it “the baby”), it grows and responds to our readers and commercial supporters, and to our goals for a more informed 50+ community. And it always will. Speaking of a more informed community, The Best of Times is gearing up to launch the First Annual SENIOR LIVING “Le Grande Tour,” a luxury air-conditioned motor coach ROAD TRIP! We’re especially proud of this addition to the TBT family. It promises to be a whole day of fun, food and frivolity, in addition to door-prizes, goody bags, some unbelievable entertainment, a free lunch and ...well, all your questions will be answered on page 7. This is an historic “DON’T MISS IT!” event. But space is limited, so we are encouraging everyone to sign up early. ~Tina Calligas
April 2009
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The Best Of Times
April 2009
April 2009
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The Best Of Times
April 2009
state Treasurer Reminds Working Families to Claim Earned Income Tax Credit
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This just in:
Property owners are entitled to La Citizens Assessment Tax Credit
Property owners are once again this year entitled to a state tax rebate whether they owe taxes or not, if they were charged the Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance Corporation assessment on their 2008 policy. Almost $21 million, or 1/3 of the money available, went unclaimed in 2007. Consumers are eligible to recoup the amount of their paid assessment for 2007 and 2008 by accessing the proper forms on the Department of Insurance Web site: www.ldi.state.la.us, by clicking on the Louisiana Citizens Insurance Tax Credit link.
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kudos
Foster Grandparent Volunteer Community Advisory Committee announced
The Foster Grandparent Community Advisory Committee Council functions in an advisory capacity in matters affecting planning, supporting, and on significant programs and personnel decisions, including the formulation of basic, local policies for the program. Day to day decisions, concerning project operations rest with the Foster Grandparent project director. Members of the council are (left to right): Carathers Barfield, Linda Bozeman, Irene Brown, Elsy Murcia, Carolyn Caesar; (2nd row) Franklin Morris, Cladie Carpenter, Edwards Caesar, Doris Swift, Felton Downing; (3rd row) Monica Hudson, Marilyn Powell, Claudette Martin, G. Jeane Nichols, Lelia Downing; (back row) Dr. Thomas Archey, Suzy Fay, Leonard Gresans. Not pictured: Peggy McCoy, Ruth Mann, Green Whitaker, and Robert Burton. Neva Jones is the Foster Grandparents Program Director.
April 2009
State Treasurer John Kennedy reminds working families in Louisiana that it is not too late to take advantage of an often overlooked federal tax break known as the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). The federal EITC provides low and moderate-income working individuals and families with a rebate of all or a portion of the federal income taxes they pay each year. In order to be eligible for the credit, an individual must have a job and must file a tax return. The federal credit is refundable, meaning that filers can claim the full amount even if it exceeds what they owe in taxes for the year. For the 2008 tax year, Lou-
isiana residents can also claim a state earned income credit. Tax filers who are eligible to claim the federal EITC are automatically eligible for the state credit. You may claim the federal EITC in 2008 if your Adjusted Gross Income was less than $38,646 ($41,646 married filing jointly) with two or more qualifying children; $33,995 ($36,995 married filing jointly) with one qualifying child; $12,880 ($15,880 married filing jointly) with no qualifying children. For more info visit www. irs.gov or 1-800-829-1040; or for the state EITC visit www. revenue.louisiana.gov or 225219-0102 or 225-219- 2200.
Louisiana Medicaid Prescription Drug Program Changed
Beginning May 1 changes will be made for some people to the LA Medicaid Prescription Drug program. At that time people on Medicaid will be limited to five (5) prescriptions per month. Those not affected by the change include those under 21 years of age, those who are pregnant, or individuals living in a long-term care facility. Individuals not in those categories and who are taking more than 5 medicines a month should talk to their doctor. If it is determined that more than 5 medicines a month are necessary, the doctor should communicate to the pharmacist that the additional prescription(s) requires a “Medically Necessary Override�. The change does not affect Medicaid eligibility and the ruling cannot be appealed. For more information call the Medicaid hotline at 1-888-342-6207.
TheBestOfTimesNews.com
d
and the winner is.... Gladys Reynolds
When we announced the “Oldest Issue Contest” back in February, we knew the winner would be somebody as perfectly delightful as Gladys Reynolds of Shreveport, whose husband of 53 years and 6 children (formerly) grumbled about her habit of saving every issue. No more, now that she has the $150 check to wave under their noses. We were nearly overwhelmed with calls, but none matched her copy of the February 2003 issue, along with her collection of every single one we have ever published, including even wayback issues of Senior Scene News. She especially loves the medical information and is also a fan of the radio program. She likes us; we like her. Another reason to admire this loyal fan: she is donating a portion of her winnings to the Caddo Council on Aging, in support of their Meals on Wheels program. Talk about a winner!
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cardiologists donate $10,000 to CCOA for the meals on Wheels Program
Dr. Tommy Brown (left) of ArklaTex Cardiology and Dr. Philip Rozeman (right) of Cardiovascular Consultants present a $10,000 donation to Mary Alice Rountree (center), Executive Director of the Caddo Council on Aging, for the Meals on Wheels Program. The donation was made in conjunction with the council’s annual March for Meals which was held on March 11th. Also pictured are Jeff Everson and Liz Swain. The Best Of Times
April 2009
New study supports statin’s anti-dementia effects
This Just In:
Socially Active and Not Easily Stressed May Not Develop Dementia those A new study found that people who were not socially active but calm and relaxed had a 50% lower risk of developing dementia compared with people who were isolated and prone to distress. The dementia risk was also 50% lower for people who were outgoing and calm compared to those who were outgoing and prone to distress. (Published in Neurology®, the medical journal of the Amer. Academy of Neurology)
Scientists Report Important in Alzheimer’s Disease testing Step
Scientists have made a significant step forward in developing a test to help diagnose the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease sooner and more accurately by measuring two biomarkers - tau and beta-amyloid proteins - in cerebrospinal fluid. Researchers from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) not only confirmed that certain changes in biomarker levels in cerebrospinal fluid may signal the onset of mild Alzheimer’s, but also established a method and standard of testing for these biomarkers. Researchers said these two measures accurately predicted which patients with memory problems would develop Alzheimer’s disease in 87% of the cases. The test also ruled out the disease in 95.2% of the volunteers.
Secondhand Smoke to Dementia Linked
People exposed to secondhand smoke may face as much as a 44% increased risk of developing dementia, a new study suggests. While previous research has established a connection between smoking and increased risk for dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, this new study is the largest review to date showing a link between secondhand smoke and the threat of dementia.
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April 2009
In the largest cohort study to date, treatment with a cholesterol-lowering statin drug was found to reduce new cases of Alzheimer’s disease, regardless of the specific type of statin used or a person’s genetic risk for the disease. After controlling for social, demographic and clinical factors that might raise a person’s risk of getting the disease, statin users had a significant 43% reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease compared with those who never used statins. The protective effect was simi-
lar for fat soluble and water soluble statins. Examples of fat soluble statins are atorvastatin (Lipitor), simvastatin (Zocor), lovastatin (Mevacor), or fluvastatin (Lescol). An example of a water soluble statin is pravastatin (Pravachol). The protective effect of statin use against Alzheimer’s disease was also similar for persons with and without the major gene mutation associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease (i.e., the apolipoprotein E-epsilon-4 allele). (Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry)
Assessment Technique Lets Scientists See Brain Aging Before Symptoms Appear
Scientists have used innovative brainscan technology developed at UCLA to help diagnose brain aging, often before symptoms appear. Researchers used positron emission tomography (PET) after patients had been intravenously injected with a new chemical marker called FDDNP, which allows “a window into the brain” of living people and specifically reveals plaques and tangles, the hallmarks of neurodegeneration. The PET scans were complemented by information on patients’ age and congnitive status and a genetic profile. According to the researchers, in the future, brain aging may be controlled. Patients would receive a brain scan and perhaps a genetic test to predict their risk. Medications and other interventions could be prescribed, if necessary, to prevent or delay future neurodegeneration, allowing doctors to protect a healthy brain before extensive damage occurs. The brain scans may also prove helpful in tracking the effectiveness of treatments. PET, combined with the FDDNP probe, is the only imaging technology that offers a full profile of neurodegeneration that includes measures of both plaques and tangles - the physical evidence of Alzheimer’s disease in the brain. Currently, the new FDDNP-PET scans are used in a research setting, but clinical trials are in development to bring the technology to wider patient use. (Archives of General Psychiatry) TheBestOfTimesNews.com
Obesity, Diabetes and Heart Disease May Speed Dementia onset
Obesity and its common companions - diabetes and heart disease - can work together to speed dementia and other brain ills, a series of new studies shows. According to Dr. Ronald C. Petersen, chairman of the Medical and Scientific Advisory Council of the Alzheimer’s Association and director of the Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center at the Mayo Clinic, “People should start paying attention now, regardless of your age or stage in life. It may be when you are in midlife, when you are in your 40s or 50s, what you do then with respect to your lifestyle -- your diet, your weight, your activity level -- may have a bigger impact on what’s going to happen to you at age 70 and beyond than if you wait until you start getting a little forgetful or a little bit fuzzy.� He added that people think about lifestyle factors in preventing heart disease, he says, but not always when it comes to losing mental abilities.
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April 2009
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low blood levels of vitamin D may lead to an increased risk for dementia
Here’s to good nutrition:
Vitamin b & folic acid may reduce risk of age-related vision loss
Taking a combination of vitamins B6 and B12 and folic acid appears to decrease the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in women, according to a report in the Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the JAMA/Archives journals. In trying to explain their findings, the researchers noted that folate, B6 and B12 can drive down blood concentrations of homocysteine, an amino acid that contributes to plaque buildup in the arteries. Since AMD is also a vascular ailment - resulting from a disruption of proper blood flow to part of the retina - the findings suggest that the tiny vessels in the eye are vulnerable to high homocysteine levels.
Mom was right. eat your broccoli
UCLA researchers report that a naturally occurring compound found in broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables may help protect against respiratory inflammation that causes conditions like asthma, allergic rhinitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Research published in the journal Clinical Immunology shows that a chemical in broccoli triggers an increase of antioxidant enzymes in the human airway that offers protection against the onslaught of free radicals that we breathe in every day in polluted air, pollen, diesel exhaust and tobacco smoke. A supercharged form of oxygen, free radicals can cause oxidative tissue damage, which leads to inflammation and respiratory conditions like asthma.
Antioxidant levels in Extra- Virgin Olive Oil Reduced with Storage
That olive oil sitting on your shelf may lose up to 40% of its health benefits if it’s been there for six months, according to a study presented in the Journal of Food Science. The health benefits of extravirgin olive oil may include preventing conditions related to coronary disease, stroke and certain types of cancers. Researchers recommend consumers store extra virgin olive oil in small glass bottles, in a dark location, at a temperature lower than 68-77°F.
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April 2009
According to a study published in the Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry and Neurology, low blood levels of vitamin D may lead to an increased risk for dementia. Researchers at Cambridge University assessed the mental performance of people over age 65 and measured blood levels of the vitamin. About 12% of the subjects were found to be psychologically debilitated - this group was largely made up of people with lower vitamin
‘‘
D levels. Those in the lowest percent were 2.3 times as likely to be impaired than those in the top 25 percent for vitamin D levels, even after statistically adjusting for age, sex, education and ethnicity. Despite warning that the causes for dementia are far from understood, researchers in the study suggest that vitamin D may play a role in brain development and the protection of neurons, thus preventing dementia in some people.
High-dose vitamin B supplementation for patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer Disease did not slow the rate of cognitive decline, according to a study reported in JAMA.
’’
pain relief may come with a cherry on top
For the 27 million Americans who suffer from osteoarthritis, pain relief may come with a cherry on top. According to researchers with the Baylor Research Institute, tart cherries, in pill form, may be a promising pain-reliever for this common and debilitating form of arthritis. More than half of the patients enrolled in the pilot study experienced a significant improvement in pain and function after taking the cherry pills for eight weeks. Osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis, is considered degenerative and typically affects the hands, feet, spine, and large weight-bearing joints, such as the hips and knees. Made from Montmorency tart cherries, this preparation is made up of ground whole cherries and given as a soft gelatin capsule.
Calcium Associated With Lower Risk of Certain types of cancer
Women with higher intake of calcium appear to have a lower risk of cancer overall, and both men and women with high calcium intakes have lower risks of colorectal cancer and other cancers of the digestive system, according to a report in the Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the JAMA/Archives journals. TheBestOfTimesNews.com
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Article and Photo by Gerry Robichaux Athletes Set to Compete in Northwest Louisiana Senior Olympic Games
Susan Berry heads for familiar ground when the 17th annual Northwest Louisiana District Senior Olympics open in early April. Berry is a member of Northwood Hills Golf Club in Blanchard where this year’s golf tournament will be held. But it is a two-edged sword for Susan. “I will have some home-course knowledge okay,” says Berry. “But I’ll be expected to do well. That’s a little added pressure.”
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April 2009
The shift to Northwood Hills is one of two moves in the competition for those 50 years of age and older. In another, tennis returns after a year’s absence, moving to the North Bossier Tennis Complex off Benton Road in Bossier after several years in the indoor courts of CHRISTUS Schumpert Wellness Center South. The opening session of the 2009 Games is a closed event, beanbag baseball for Independent and Assisted Living
Centers. Live Oak Retirement Community’s team “owns” the event, having won all five of the previous beanbag titles. The regular schedule begins April 13 with tennis competition using a slightly modified format. “I’m pleased to see that the USTA rating system will be used,” said tennis entrant Clarence Pinion. “It will allow players like myself who are just coming back to the game or learning to play for the first time to face opposition of similar levels.” There will be a 2.5 rating division and a 3.0 and above division in men’s and women’s singles, doubles and mixed doubles. The tournament is scheduled to run through April 16. LANDERS Dodge Chrysler Jeep is the official presenter of the district golf tournament this year and Golf Chairman Gary Price foresees a growth in the field. “We have all the ingredients,” he said. “A good club behind us, a fine course, good pre-planning and good support.” LANDERS will reward the first hole-in-one on a designated hole with a new automobile. There are other bright spots on the District Games’ horizon, according to Olympic Games Coordinator Doyle Blasingame. “We look for our old standby, beanbag baseball, to continue its growing popularity. And there is a good chance we will have our best-ever turnout for pickleball,” Blasingame said of the game which is played with a wiffle ball and special rackets on an indoor court half the size of a regulation tennis court. The game, incorporating skills of badminton and table tennis, is sometime called “tennis without all the running.” Rev. Dave Fortuna of Noel Methodist, part of an Louisiana Senior Olympic Games championship doubles team with Jay Garcia, will oversee the pickleball competition in the Noel Methodist gymnasium. “We may have to look for additional space,” said Blasingame, noting the popularity of pickleball in south Louisiana. “We would welcome a big contingent from Cajun Country and we’ll have to make contingency plans.” A high spot of the District Games is the opening ceremony held during the Senior Expo and Health Fair, held in Bossier Civic Center May 6 in conjunction with The Best of Times. The District competition runs through May 16, concluding with a Celebration of Athletes supper. Here’s what is offered in the 2009 Northwest Louisiana District Senior Olympics April 13-May 16: April 13-16 - Tennis (N. Bossier Tennis Center), Times TBA. April 24 - Golf , Presented by LANDERS Dodge Chrysler Jeep (Northwood Hills GC), 8 a.m. TheBestOfTimesNews.com
April 25 - Bean Bag Baseball (Bossier Knights of Columbus Hall), 9 a.m. April 26 - Biking Time Trials (Ellerbe Road at Frierson Road), 2 p.m. May 1 - Bocce Ball (Princess Park, Shreveport), 9 a.m. May 2 - Pickleball (Noel Methodist Church gym), 8 a.m. May 6 - Senior Health Fair and Opening Ceremonies (Bossier Civic Center). 9 a.m. Also includes competition in Dance Team 9:30; Accuracy Throws 11 a.m., Darts 10 a.m., Basketball Free Throws 11 a.m., Arts and Crafts competition and finals in Bean Bag, Baseball competition for retirement communities 10 a.m. and regular 1 p.m. May 7 - Marksmanship in .22 rifles and pistols (Shooters USA in Bossier) 9 a.m. May 7 - Miniature Golf (Party Central Bossier) 6:30 p.m. May 8 - Chess, Randle T. Moore Center 8:30 a.m. May 8 - Bowling Mixed Doubles, All Star Lanes, 1 p.m. May 8 - Table Tennis, Parkview Baptist Church 5:30 p.m. May 9 - Horseshoes, Bossier Knights of Columbus 8 a.m. May 9 - Redneck Golf, Bossier Knights of Columbus 10 a.m. May 11 - Washer Pitch, Bossier Civic Center 8 a.m. May 11 - Shuffleboard Singles, Bossier Civic Center 8 a.m. May 11 - Shuffleboard Doubles, Bossier Civic Center 1 p.m. May 13 - Bowling Doubles, All Star Lanes, 1 p.m. May 14 - Table Games (Skipbo, Pinochle, Dominos, Phase 11) Bossier Council on Aging 9 a.m. May 15 - Recreational Walk, Southern Hills Park 9 a.m. May 15 - Bowling Singles, All Star Lanes 1 p.m. May 16 - Track and Field, Bossier High School Track 8:30 a.m. May 16 - Celebration of Athletes, Bossier Council on Aging 6 p.m. Retirement Communities Competition: April 3 - Bean Bag Baseball, Southern Hills gymnasium 9 a.m. April 17 - Washer Pitch, Southern Hills gymnasium 9 a.m. Additional information at www.nwlsog. org or telephone 464-0271. The Best Of Times
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By The Medicare Rights Center (www.medicarerights.org)
Retiree Coverage and Cancer Screening Costs
Dear Marci, I am retired and about to turn 65. Should I keep my retiree coverage once I have Medicare? --Sheryl Dear Sheryl, It depends. Retiree coverage can be very expensive but, if you can afford it, it may still be worth the price. It acts as supplemental insurance, and may fill many of the gaps in Original Medicare’s coverage, such as deductibles and coinsurance. It may also pay for some health care Medicare does not cover. If your retiree plan gives you good vision and dental coverage and fills many of the gaps in your Medicare coverage, you should think hard before dropping it. You should also find out whether the drug coverage through your retiree insurance is considered as good or better than Medicare’s (“creditable coverage”).
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April 2009
If it is, you can join a Medicare private drug plan later without penalty if you need it. To find out exactly what your retiree insurance covers and whether its drug coverage is considered “creditable,” contact the Human Resources Department of the company through which you have retiree coverage. Some employers sponsor Medicare private health plans (Medicare Advantage), such as Medicare HMOs and PFFS plans, for retirees who are eligible for Medicare. If you worked for one of these employers, you can get both your Medicare benefits and your retiree health benefits from a Medicare private health plan that has a contract with your former employer. Some employers require that you join a Medicare private health plan to continue getting retiree health benefits. You can always choose not to take your employer’s coverage. However, keep in mind that you may not be able to get that retiree coverage back if you want it at a later date. ~Marci Dear Marci, Does Medicare cover the cost of
screenings for cancer? --Lance Dear Lance, Yes. Medicare covers screenings for several types of cancer - breast, cervical, vaginal, colorectal and prostate. Talk to your doctor about which screenings you should get. Early detection of cancer can increase the chances that treatment will be successful, and in some cases, can identify precancerous conditions that can be treated and cured before cancer develops. To learn more about risks, screenings and coping with cancer, visit the American Cancer Society’s web site at www.cancer. org or call its hotline at 1-800-ACS-2345 (1-800-227-2345). To learn how Medicare covers cancer screenings and other preventive care services, go to http://tiny. cc/DhaGL. ~Marci Marci’s Medicare Answers is a service of the Medicare Rights Center (www. medicarerights.org), the nation’s largest independent source of information and assistance for people with Medicare. To speak with a counselor, call (800) 3334114. To subscribe to “Dear Marci,” MRC’s free educational e-newsletter, simply e-mail dearmarci@medicarerights.org. To learn more about the services that Medicare will cover and how to change plans, log on to Medicare Interactive Counselor at the Medicare Rights Center’s website at www.medicareinteractive.org.
TheBestOfTimesNews.com
The Best Of Times
April 2009
17
By Lee ARonson, an attorney
with Legal Services of North Louisiana that all she would be responsible for was Do I Have her co-pay and that her to Pay That insurance would pay the rest of her bill so Medical she was surprised when Bill? her doctor sent a bill directly to her. The doctor’s bill explained Monica (not her real name) that the doctor charged $200 lived in New York. She had for the type of services that the health insurance through doctor had provided to Monica her job that required a co- but that her insurance had only pay every time she went to paid $100. As a result, the see her doctor. She thought doctor was trying to collect the
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April 2009
$100 difference from Monica. Is that legal? Monica’s doctor was engaged in a practice called balance billing, which is sometimes illegal in Louisiana. Here’s how it works: insurance companies keep lists of what they consider to be a usual and customary charge for various health care procedures. For example, the insurance company may have a list that says a usual and customary charge for a routine doctor’s visit in Shreveport is $100. Therefore, if a doctor in Shreveport files a claim for a routine doctor’s visit, the most the insurance company will pay is $100 regardless of what the doctor actually charges. So if the doctor charges $200 for a routine office visit, the insurance company will only pay $100. And Louisiana law says that if the doctor is in your health insurer’s network of healthcare providers then the doctor can not go after the patient for the $100 balance. That’s because when a doctor joins a health insurer’s network of providers, the doctor is agreeing to accept the usual and customary charge as determined by the health insurer as payment in full. But things get more complicated if a patient goes to a health care provider that is outside the insurer’s network of providers. In Louisiana, if a patient goes to an out-of-network doctor, then the doctor can balance bill. Let’s use Chandler (not his real name) as an example.Chandler went to his doctor and got some bad news. The doctor told him that he needed surgery. And that it was going to be an expensive surgery. The good news was that Chandler had health insurance through his work. He called his health insurance company and got more good news: the type of surgery he needed was covered. The insurance company gave Chandler a list of surgeons and hospitals that were in his insurance plan. Chandler arranged his surgery with an in-network surgeon at an in-network hospital. The surgery turned out just fine and Chandler was recovering well until he received a bill from a doctor he never heard of. He made a few phone calls and found out that the bill was from the anestheTheBestOfTimesNews.com
siologist who put Chandler under before the surgery. And to make matters worse, although the anesthesiologist worked at an in-network hospital, he was not in Chandler’s insurance plan. And this ended up being very bad news for Chandler: his insurance would have paid 100% of the bill if he used an in-network doctor. But the insurance would only pay 20% of the bill for an out-of-network doctor. So Chandler would be responsible for 80% of the anesthesiologist’s bill. But that’s not the end of the story. Chandler’s insurance company decided that the anesthesiologist’s bill was too high so they refused to pay 20% of the full bill. For example, let’s say that the anesthesiologist’s bill was $1,000. The insurance company, on its own, decided that $1,000 was too high and that a usual and customary fee should have been $300. So rather than paying 20% of $1,000, or $200, the insurance company only paid 20% of $300, or $60. And because the insurance company only paid $60, guess who was responsible for the rest of the $1,000 bill: Chandler. And how much was he responsible for? The amount of the bill, $1,000, minus the amount paid by
The Best Of Times
the insurance company, $60, for a total of $940. And that’s legal in Louisiana. Even if the out of network doctor is based at an in-network hospital. And even in an emergency. But back in New York, that State’s Attorney General decided to investigate how insurance companies determined what was a usual and customary charge. And it turned out that most insurance companies were getting this information from a company called Ingenix. Further investigation found that Ingenix was owned by, get this, a health insurance company.
The State Attorney General saw this as “a gross conflict of interest.” He later accused insurance company’s use of the database as “an industry wide scheme perpetrated by some of the nation’s largest health insurance companies to defraud consumers.” Lawsuits were filed, and it was recently agreed that the Ingenix database would be shut down and that usual and customary charges would be determined by an independent university or nonprofit group. Lee Aronson’s practice areas include consumer protection law, housing law and health care law.
April 2009
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By Judge Jeff Cox, 26th Judicial District Court Judge for Bossier/Webster Parishes, Division C cases recently in my courtroom. Why is this a problem and what rights does the property owner have in these situations? The Louisiana Criminal Code under Article 63 states that “No person shall enter any structure, watercraft, or movable owned by another without express, legal, or implied authorization.” If a person knows or has reason to know that they are not on their own property, they can be charged with the crime of criminal trespass. Many of our citizens, especially senior citizens, have property in our area. Each year, these citizens are overrun by persons wishing to cross their property. Under this law, a person found on your property
Criminal Trespass and Remaining After Being Forbidden Spring of the year brings great activities to the area. Everybody is ready for the milder temperatures. Flowers start to bloom and people start to get out of their houses and move around. Some people, however, will enter on other people’s land. When this happens, the person can be charged with criminal trespass. In the fall and spring, our courts start to hear more of these types of cases. I have seen a number of trespass cases and remaining after being forbidden
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can be charged with criminal trespass. In a situation where you find a person trespassing, do not get into a confrontation with the trespasser. Write down license plates, get as much descriptive information as you can about the person, such as height, weight, hair color, and name if possible. Call your local sheriff’s department with this information and have the Sheriff’s Department send an officer to issue a ticket to the trespasser. The problem with this crime is that it causes great aggravation to the property owner. There is nothing worse than discovering someone who is not authorized to be on your property is on your property. Fortunately, the legislature has provided in this same code article that if a person is hurt while on your property and that person does not have permission to be on your property, the landowner will not have liability unless the condition that caused the injury on the property was intentional acts of the landowner or gross negligence. These standards create a very high threshold for the trespasser to cross before they can recover damages from the
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landowner or property owner. In other situations, if a person has been warned to stay off a piece of property or has been asked to leave and refuses to leave, then that person can also be charged with a crime called Remaining after being Forbidden. This crime is found in Louisiana Criminal Code Article 63.3. In my court, I have seen situations where elderly parents have had problems with their children or grandchildren. They have asked these children or grandchildren to leave but they either refuse to leave or return back to the property. Most of these cases involve the situation where the child or grandchild is intoxicated from alcohol or drugs. Due to the fact the person is intoxicated, they pose a risk to the elderly person that lives in the home. When a situation of this nature happens, the person who owns the home can call their local sheriff’s office or
police department and have the person removed and charged with this crime. If this situation occurs, the owner of the home or property needs to take action to protect themselves from injury. Criminal Trespass for a first offense carries a fine of not less than $100 nor more than $500 and imprisonment up to 30 days in jail. Second and third offenses of criminal trespass carry stiffer fines and jail sentences. Remaining after Forbidden carries a fine up to $500 and up to 6 months in jail. If these crimes involve an elderly victim, serious consideration is given to jail time in order to ensure that the elderly victim is protected from the defendant. These laws are designed so that property owners can enjoy their property in peace. So let’s all remember to be respectful of other person’s rights to peaceful enjoyment of their property.
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BY mirabai holland, M.f.a.,
a leading authority in health and fitness yourself out. Here’s a simple Jumpstart interval-walking proSpring With gram that will help you get into shape and Interval won’t break your bank Training account. You will need a watch. Start walking at a slow Well it’s April, and those pace for the first 5 minutes to New Year’s resolutions, warm-up, help elevate your like the economy, remain core body temperature and un-resolved. increase blood flow to your But, Spring is in the air and it’s time for a new start. working muscles. Then pick up the pace for It’s time for some interthe next 3 minutes so you start val training. It won’t fix to feel more effort but you can the economy but interval still carry on a conversation training is a quick way to comfortably. Then pick up jump-start your body and more speed for a 1-minute lighten your mood. interval; either faster walking Interval training combines or a light jog. Then go back to periods of lighter exercise your comfortable conversation with bursts of more intense exercise. You get faster pace for 3 minutes. Alternate results without knocking between 3 and 1 minute of
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faster walking intervals until you are able to sustain about 30 minutes 4-5 days a week. Music can be the plane that flies you to your destination. It’s a great motivator So, if you’re technically inclined, try making a music track with 5 minutes of your favorite warm-up-paced music followed by several intervals of 3 minutes moderate, and 1 minute of faster paced music. There are ready-made fitness music cds you can buy however making your own give you the advantage of picking your own personal favorites and pacing the intervals the way you want. Mirabai Holland M.F.A. is one of the leading authorities in the Health & Fitness industry, and public health activist who specializing in preventive and rehabilitative exercise for people. Her Moving Free® approach to exercise is designed to provide a movement experience so pleasant it doesn’t feel like work. www. easyexercisevideos.com. © 2009
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According to recent estimates, as many as 2.4 million to 4.5 million Americans have Alzheimer’s Disease. Today it is the sixth-leading cause of death in the U. S.
Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is an irreversible, progressive brain disease that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills and, eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks of daily living AD is the most common cause of dementia among older people, but it is not a normal part of aging. Dementia refers to a decline in cognitive function that interferes with daily activities. AD starts in a region of the brain that affects recent memory, then gradually spreads to other parts of the brain. Although treatment can slow the progression and help manage its symptoms in some people, currently there is no cure for this devastating disease. Amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain are considered hallmarks of AD. The third main feature of AD is the gradual loss of connections between nerve cells in the brain. AD is a slow disease. The time from diagnosis to death varies - as little as 3 or 4 years if the person is older than 80 when diagnosed to as long as 10 or more years if the person is younger. Other factors include the person’s sex, the presence of other health problems, and the severity of cognitive problems at diagnosis. Many conditions and diseases cause dementia, although AD is the most common cause in older people. Vascular dementia, from a stroke or other damage to the brain’s blood vessels, is the second most common form. Other conditions that cause dementia include medication side effects; depression; certain brain tumors; blood clots pressing on the brain; poor nutrition;
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dehydration; high fever; or thyroid, kidney, or liver disorders. Memory problems are one of the first signs of AD. As AD progresses, changes in other cognitive abilities appear such as getting lost, trouble handling money and paying bills, repeating questions, taking longer to complete normal daily tasks, poor judgment, and mood and personality changes.
In moderate AD, memory loss and confusion increase, and people begin to have problems recognizing family and friends. They may be unable to learn new things, carry out tasks that involve multiple steps (such as getting dressed), or cope with new situations. They may have hallucinations, delusions, and paranoia, and may behave impulsively. People with severe AD cannot communicate and are completely dependent on others for their care. Near the end, the person may be in bed most or all of the time as the body shuts down. The 10 warning signs of AD include memory loss, difficulty performing common tasks, problems with language, disorientation to time and place, poor
or decreased judgement, problems with abstract thinking, misplacing things, changes in mood or behavior, changes in personality, and loss of initiative. Common behavioral symptoms of AD include sleeplessness, agitation, wandering, anxiety, anger, and depression. Scientists don’t yet fully understand what causes AD, but it is likely that the causes include genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. In a very few families, people develop AD in their 30s, 40s, and 50s. These people have a mutation in one of three genes that they inherited from a parent. However, most people with AD have “late-onset” AD, which usually develops after age 60. Many studies have linked a gene called APOE to late-onset AD. About 40% of all people who develop late-onset AD carry one form of this gene, APOE ε4. However, carrying the APOE ε4 form of the gene does not mean that a person will develop AD, and people carrying no APOE ε4 forms can also develop AD. Scientists think that other risk-factor genes exist as well. New research suggests that a nutritious diet, exercise, social engagement, and mentally stimulating pursuits might help to reduce the risk of cognitive decline and AD. Scientists are investigating associations between cognitive decline and heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. AD can be definitively diagnosed only after death by linking clinical course with autopsy results. Doctors do have several methods to help determine whether a person who is having memory problems has “possible AD” (the symptoms may be due
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to another cause) or “probable AD” (no other cause for the symptoms can be found). To diagnose AD, doctors: • ask questions about the person’s overall health, past medical problems, ability to carry out daily activities, and changes in behavior and personality • conduct tests of memory, problem solving, attention, counting, and language • carry out medical tests • perform brain scans. Having an early diagnosis and starting treatment in the early stages of the disease can help preserve function for months to years, even though the underlying AD process cannot be changed. In addition, an early diagnosis can provide greater opportunities for people to get involved in clinical trials. In a clinical trial, scientists test drugs or treatments to see which are most effective and for whom they
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work best. AD is a complex disease, and no single “magic bullet” is likely to prevent or cure it. Current treatments focus on helping people maintain mental function; managing behavioral symptoms; and slowing, delaying, or preventing AD. Four medications are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat AD. Donepezil (Aricept ® ), rivastigmine (Exelon ®), and galantamine (Razadyne®) are used to treat mild to moderate AD (donepezil can be used for severe AD as well). Memantine (Namenda ®) is used to treat moderate to severe AD. These drugs may help maintain thinking, memory, and speaking skills, and help with certain behavioral problems. However, these drugs don’t change the underlying disease process and may help only for a short time. (www.nia.nih.gov and www. alz.org.)
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By betsy Williams, Psy.D.,
Executive Director of The Center of Families “I am caring for my loved one” tells that they are The Language us providing a special of Caregiving service; a “heart and soul” service. It also tells us that they are spending time doing Everything has a language. something that is a part of the I guess you would call it lingo love they have for them. in some respects. Take for “I am giving care to someexample, in the late 50’s and one that needs my assistance” 60’s, there was the lingo of tells us that they are providing Beatnik such as “Hey man” service to someone because Then we moved into the lingo they need it and they have the of hippies such as “Peace opportunity to give it. It also man”. So I guess we have tells us that they are spending moved into the lingo of yup- time doing something that pies such as “Whas’up” is helpful to another human So what is the lingo of care- being. giving? It is more than just a “I never thought I would few words, it is a way of life. have to care for him/her in In the next few paragraphs, this way” tells us that someI would like to explore this times giving care to a loved “way of life” lingo. one comes as a shock. We
don’t like to think of our loved ones as being unable to care for themselves. “I am doing the best I can” tells us that sometimes frustrations cause us to doubt that we are really doing anything useful. However, doing the best is actually enough to get someone through one day at a time. “I want to laugh and cry at the same time” tells us that caregiving can be humorous along with sad. These are only a few pieces of the language of caregiving. It encompasses all emotions and then some. It can be rewarding and chaotic at the same time. However, it is what living things do; give care to those who need care. It is true some speak this language of caregiving better than others. Some accept it with great motivation, while others dread facing it. The best we can do is accept that we are compassionate people, however, we have our moments where the language of caregiving seems foreign. We stutter on the words and actions, however, we step back, take a deep breath, and know that we have the strength and courage to learn the language of caregiving one action at a time. So, just remember. • Some may speak the language of caregiving better, however, all have the compassion to accept it and learn from it. • “The best I can do” is all we need in the eyes of the one we are providing care for. • If we stutter, know that we can step back, take a deep breath and learn one action at a time. The Center for Families is a non-profit agency providing individual and family counseling on a sliding fee scale.
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You’re reeling from the diagnosis the doctor gave you. Your loved one has dementia – what is that? What does it mean for him (or her) – and for you?
The Discovery
Typically, the discovery of a disease causing memory loss and dementia comes on slowly. You may be able to look back and realize that there were hints for months, maybe even years, before the moment when you came to the conclusion that Mom or Dad was not just become more and more “eccentric.” More often, however, family members just don’t put all the clues together until something happens to bring the concerns to the forefront. That could be one pivotal event – Dad went out for a drive and got lost for hours before coming back home. Or, even more commonly, the discovery comes on slowly, as, over time, you notice more and more signs of a change in your loved one. Perhaps you realize that bills are not getting paid. Perhaps you notice that your obsessively neat parent forgot to shave for 2 or 3 days in a row, or neglected to change clothes for several days. Perhaps you notice a change in behavior – a use of language that seems out of character; a need for continual contact or reassurance that is unusual. Perhaps your loved one looks at you with no recognition – or asks you why you never come to visit when you were just there yesterday. Perhaps your loved one turns on you and threatens to call the police and report you for stealing money, wallets or possessions. If you’re like millions of other family members facing this moment of discovery, your first reaction may be dismay. What now? How on earth do I cope with this, in addition to my regular, busy, full-time life? Learning to cope with your loved one’s needs without losing your mind is your biggest challenge! (Continued in the Centerspread)
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The First Step
Get a diagnosis. This is the first step you need to take, and the sooner you take it the better. You may wish to go directly to a research center that specializes in Alzheimer’s disease (most university hospitals have these kinds of programs). Or, you may need to start with a family doctor, and go from there for further tests, if necessary. You may hear, “There’s nothing wrong with me – I’m not going to the doctor.” Right off the mark, you need to learn some new skills. Start with this one: Reassurance. “Dad, I’ll go with you, and I’ll stay with you the whole time – it’s no big deal.” If that doesn’t work, try bargaining. “Mom, if you’ll just do this for me, we can go to lunch together afterward and have a nice, long chat at your favorite restaurant.” If that still doesn’t work, try diversion: “Honey, I need you to go to the doctor so the kids will stop nagging me. I’m getting sick and tired of the nagging – it’s up to you to get those kids off my back.” These are skills you’ll develop and learn to use like a pro over time. You’ll find that you need a whole new set of skills to be most helpful to your loved one, and keep your own sanity intact. The least useful approach both now and in the future is argument. Logic is frequently one of the first brain functions to diminish, so no matter how grounded in facts your arguments may be, you just won’t win. Try some of the other “tools” for accomplishing necessary goals. Once you get an agreement to go to the doctor, you’ll want to consider the following things: Accompany your loved one to the doctor – all the way in. Make notes about what you’ve observed – details and facts, suspicions and observations. Take your notes with you, and don’t hesitate to read them to the doctor, or simply give them to the doctor. Can you do this in front of your loved one? Try it – you may be surprised how accepting your loved one is with the facts you present, especially if you word them as facts. For example, “Dad got lost coming home from the market last week. It was kind of scary for us both.” Be prepared for your loved one to become suspicious about what you might have to say “behind my back,” and make an effort to include your loved one in your discussions with the doctor if at all possible. Most individuals with early stage memory loss are keenly aware of what they are losing, and this is distressing to them as well. Choosing to openly discuss all of the facets of memory loss and dementia can help both you and your loved one face this disease rather than feel that it needs to stay “hidden.” Ask for tests. If your loved one has just suffered a significant loss – from a spouse to a beloved pet – be aware that depression could be the problem. Untreated, lingering depression can cause a person to act like they have dementia or another brain impairment. With appropriate medication or brief talking therapy, your loved one may be able to work through the depression and re-gain complete mental functioning. Other physical problems like bladder infections, pneu-
monia, or vision or hearing losses can look on the surface like Alzheimer’s disease. These problems are generally completely treatable, and what looks like dementia can be totally reversed if the underlying health problems are addressed. Be aware that simple things like drug interactions, dehydration and malnutrition can cause the appearance of dementia. Ask the doctor to test for these and similar treatable physical ailments before you both assume that your loved one has dementia. Expect your loved one to be much more lucid at the doctor’s office than what you’ve observed. This can drive you nuts, especially if the doctor is not experienced in diagnosing dementia, and looks at you like you’re the one with the problem! This is so common that, fortunately, the medical community is beginning to catch on, and educate doctors to look beyond the “perfectly normal” presentation in the office. Be prepared that your loved one may even be able to ace the “mental status exam” that a physician can complete in 2 minutes during an office visit. If this happens, ask for a referral to a neurologist, or seek out an Alzheimer’s diagnostic center at a nearby University or teaching hospital. Don’t let this distress you. Keep at it until you find a doctor who is really able to see what you’ve been seeing, and help you find an appropriate treatment plan. Ask about medications. Once the physician has ruled out treatable problems, and has determined that your loved one likely has a disease like Alzheimer’s, ask about medications. The drugs currently available to “treat” Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias work best during the earliest stages of the disease. During this time, medications can be truly helpful, and can help your loved one regain some functioning, and, barring that, can delay significantly the progression of the disease.
Get a support system in place.
As soon as you have a diagnosis and know that you’re dealing with a degenerative disease of the mind, most commonly Alzheimer’s disease, stroke related dementia, or dementia as a result of another disease like
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Parkinson’s, you need to “rally the troops” to help you support your loved one. Here’s where to start: Start with nutrition and hydration. Since these are risk areas for all older persons, imagine how the risk increases for the person with memory loss. Remember that these two factors alone can result in an appearance of memory loss, when the brain is still intact. Factor into your plan a way to support adequate nutrition and hydration. This might be a “going to lunch” plan shared among family members and friends, a Meals-on-Wheels plan, or another support plan. Develop a plan for medication management. If your loved one takes no prescription medications, find out what over-thecounter medications, vitamins, herbs and supplements he or she is taking. These are drugs as well, and can cause problems of interaction, over-medication, and side effects in similar ways to prescription drugs. Try the daily dose containers – the ones with the little flip-tops for the days of the week that you can fill once a week, and help your loved one use on a weekly basis. This approach doesn’t work, of course, if your loved one can’t figure out the days of the week any longer. Talk to the doctor about times drugs need to be taken. Often, times of medication can be adjusted so that all medications can be taken only once a day, instead of several times during the day, making medication assistance much easier. Enlist the help of other family members, neighbors or friends to drop in once a day and help your loved one with medications. If Mom is taking a number of prescription medications, be aware that not taking these as directed can result in a hospitalization, emergency room visit or other crisis. When these events happen to a person with dementia, they can cause a dramatic decline in functioning, often with permanent losses of abilities. Encourage social interaction and physical activity. It is normal for the person with early stage dementia to begin withdrawing from usual social and physical activities. Imagine forgetting your friends’ The Best Of Times
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names, forgetting which utensil to use when in a dining experience, and being no longer able to carry on a conversation. Imagine fearing getting lost whenever you go out. These are very real feelings for a person in early stage dementia. Enlist the help of everyone you know to help support your loved one’s social and physical well-being. While you’re setting up this plan, be aware that these two aspects – social interaction and physical activity – are two of the most important factors in delaying the progression of diseases related to aging. Social interaction keeps the brain agile, especially if you have an opportunity to talk about current events or other issues of the day. Physical activity helps keep the body functioning in a healthy manner – “use it or lose it” really is true! Anything you can do in this area can have a big payoff in terms of quality of life and life span for your loved one.
Carefully examine safety issues.
Even in the earliest stages of Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias, safety issues are important. For the memory impaired person, poor judgment can result in financial problems, as well as a whole host of other problems, including significant safety concerns. Imagine the phone ringing while the soup is on the stove. An individual with a judgment impairment will forget the soup, get involved in the telephone conversation, and maybe even ultimately walk away forgetting they ever started the soup. Safety hazards of this sort are, unfortunately, not uncommon during the early stages of memory loss. One of the first safety issues you’ll need to address is driving. Removing this right can be extremely traumatic for an adult. While women may be more agreeable to giving up use of the car, many men will fight and resist giving up their driving rights. Enlist the support and help of your loved one’s physician if you have to tackle this issue. Have the doctor be the “bad guy,” and ask him or her to write a letter to Mom, or submit a form to the DMV restricting your family member’s license. If you have any concerns about driving skills at all, do whatever it takes to take away driving. Just think how you’d feel if your loved one was in an accident that was fatal to another adult or child. Think how your loved one would feel. Many families have resorted to extremely creative solutions to remove the risk associated with driving and memory impairment. Just use your newly developing skills of creativity and diversion. Another safety issue you need to watch for is “getting lost.” Wandering is rarely a situation of truly “getting lost.” More typically, the memory impaired person simply feels “lost” in general, perhaps feeling that if he or she can return to a more familiar place – a childhood home, a more familiar town – he or she will feel better, and not feel lost anymore. If your loved one even appears to be likely to wander, you need to do two things: 1) Sign him or her up with a program like “Safe Return” (this is a program offered by the Alzheimer’s Association – for details see the Alzheimer’s association’s website) program. These programs consist of identification – and you can start with this step immediately by getting an ID bracelet or necklace for your loved one – along with a telephone number to call if the individual is found appearing to be lost. This contact information which can be put on the ID item will tie into a program with a data base that contains contact information for you or another relative, so that March April 2009
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you can quickly be reunited with your loved one if an incident of this nature occurs. 2) Arrange for supervision when you’re not around. You need to do everything in your power to ensure your family member’s safety at all times. If you cannot make these arrangements at home, consider a care facility with a secured exit system. Remember, no program is fail-safe. You can be in a one-on-one care arrangement, and, when you turn around to answer the telephone or go to the bathroom your loved one can exit and be gone.
Take care of yourself.
You’ve no doubt heard the saying, “You can’t take care of someone else if you don’t take care of yourself first.” Although difficult to do, taking care of yourself is one of the most important gifts you can give your family member with memory loss. Here’s where to start: Have a plan that includes SUPPORT! If you try to do the entire work of caregiving by yourself you will burn out. Many caregivers struggle with this concept – they’re used to being self-reliant, and not asking for help. But think about this important fact: Full-time family caregivers have a shorter life expectancy than the person they are caring for. So ask for and expect whatever support you need! Start by holding a family meeting. Gather your relatives, and invite significant friends and neighbors as well. Talk
about what is happening with your loved one, and what his or her needs are now. You can share what you’ve learned about the progress of the disease. It is important to talk about what you’ll want to do when and if the disease progresses to the point that your loved may need full-time assistance. Discuss options like Assisted Living Facilities, Nursing Homes, in-home care, and the financial issues associated with each choice. Don’t refuse any offers of help!! You’ll likely be surprised by how much help you can get just by sitting and talking about the disease process with other family members. It is important that you feel comfortable asking for – and receiving – help from others in your circle. Find someone to talk to. You may find that your closest friends can’t relate to your experiences with your mom or dad quite like others who are in the same situation. Finding others who can relate, and who can also listen will help you tremendously. Many family members find that a support group, like those offered by local chapters of the Alzheimer’s Association, or community hospitals, can give them a time and a place to talk about their experience. Most groups have leaders who are knowledgeable about resources to help you in caregiving, and are experienced listeners. Some groups even involve the person with dementia himself, allowing that individual a chance to express some of the feelings and concerns that accompany the disease. If you experience pervasive feelings of sadness, sleep or
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appetite disturbances, or other signs of depression, seek professional care for depression. Good, effective treatment is available for depression, but you need to seek it. Talk to your doctor – get help.
Be mindful of your own health.
Caregiver studies find that 32% of caregivers report having their own health problems. Those health problems, coupled with the stress of caregiving, can be a burdening combination. Fortunately, help is simple and available: Eat right. Eat as many fresh foods – fruits, vegetable, nuts and grains - as you can, and eat a variety all year long for optimal health. Most importantly, don’t skip meals, or eat fast food snacks as meal replacements. You’ll lose precious energy by skipping the nutrients your body needs, or by fueling your body with less than optimal foods. Get enough sleep and rest. It feels impossible, right? This might be the place where you enlist the help of others – and give yourself permission to take a rest break. Don’t feel awkward about getting help, and using that time just to nap, read, take a bath, or just relax. Think of it as re-charging your batteries. Many people with memory loss find their days and nights get mixed up. That means many caregivers lose sleep every night while they get up with a wide-awake – and restless – loved one. This is very common, and should be addressed. Talk to your
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family member’s doctor. Perhaps a gentle sleeping medication can help your mom or dad sleep at night, and be fully awake during the day. Often, simply changing the times that routine medications are given can change sleep patterns (some medications inherently cause drowsiness as a side effect – give them just before bedtime if possible). Mindfully include physical activity in your daily routine. Even walking at a moderate pace can help your body cope better with the stress of caregiving. Take your family member with you, if possible, and you’ll both get the positive physical and mental results. Exercise has been shown to help appetite, mental well-being, and the ability to get quality rest. Join a gym and get a double benefit: time for yourself, away from your caregiving responsibilities, and all the benefits inherent with exercise itself. Try yoga – many researchers are becoming convinced that yoga and similar mind/body exercise can actually contribute to better resistance to disease and faster healing. You may find yourself more relaxed, happier, and healthier as a result. See your own doctor regularly. You may be so tired of physician visits with your mom or dad that you feel you just can’t face going to the doctor for your own health. Staying healthy, however, is a more challenging task now that you’re also a caregiver.
Keep your sanity.
Caregiving isn’t easy. You can keep your sanity, and hold on to the good things in life, even while facing a disease that gradually transforms your loved one into a person you no longer recognize.
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So, here’s how to cope: Allow yourself time to grieve. You’ve lost bits and pieces of a loved one – those parts that memory loss and dementia have claimed. Alzheimer’s disease has been nicknamed “The Long Goodbye” because the grieving just seems to go on and on. Many family caregivers get to a point when, as shocking as it seems, they say out loud, “I just wish my mother would die – then it would finally be over.” If you have those thoughts, you’re not alone, and you’re not a horrible person for thinking them! You are experiencing a significant loss – accept that those thoughts and feelings are normal, and allow yourself a chance to grieve that loss. Practice the art of acceptance. Your family member may be changing nearly before your eyes, but who is he or she becoming? Someone funny (she never made you laugh so much before!)? Perhaps someone more loving and sensitive (where did all the hugging and hand-holding come from)? Get to know this new person who is appearing in your mom or dad’s body. It’s OK – Mom needs you to love her just exactly as she is now, without trying to keep pushing her back into a person that no longer exists. Try being open and accepting of this new emerging persona. Keep laughing! That old saying, “Laughter is the best medicine,” has been scientifically proven! Laughing really is
good for you. So, hang out with people who make you laugh; watch funny movies; keep a journal of things that your family member does that makes you chuckle. You’ll get more enjoyment out of life, and you’ll stay younger a lot longer! Look for the joy in life. Remember, life should be joyful. That goes beyond fun. Joyfulness is a sense of wonder at the world around us – at people who love us, and whom we love, and at the miracles that surround us. Look for those things that bring you joy, whatever they are.
Finally, remember that caregiving is a gift of love.
Look for ways to make it more than just a completing of tasks. Discover ways to preserve the relationship, while doing the hard work of caregiving. You can find a wealth of information on the internet to give you practical tips to help you handle the tasks of caregiving while preserving the relationship that is the reason you’re doing it all. And, while you might not earn any “Caregiver of the Year” award, you’ll have the peaceful satisfaction of knowing that you’ve tackled one of life’s most challenging jobs, and done it with a style and a passion of your very own! This article first appeared as a series on CaringForMom.com, a website offering caregiver training and support designed especially for family caregivers. Please visit CaringForMom. com for more info. Edited and reprinted by permission of the author and CaringForMom.com.
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Emergency Response System
Alzheimer’s Disease is a devastating condition that can challenge family members trying to care for their loved one. The following businesses and organizations have the knowledge and the resources to help families cope. Alzheimer’s Disease Clinical Research Studies
Assisted Living Facility
Dr. J. Gary Booker 851 Olive Street Shreveport, LA 71104 (318) 227-9600 Conducting research studies sponsored by major pharmaceutical companies relating to Alzheimer’s disease. Qualified participants will receive study-related medical evaluations and investigational medication at no cost. For more information, call (318) 227-9600.
Kingsley Place of Shreveport 7110 University Shreveport, LA 71105 (318) 524-2100 Assisted living with dementia care suites, courtyard suites, rehab and therapy services. Offers weekly housekeeping services. Small pets are welcomed. Scheduled transportation available for appointments. For more information, please call (318) 524-2100.
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Acadian On Call (800) 259-1234 Acadian On Call provides medical alert systems to over 13,000 subscribers. Our service launched in 1991, provides peace of mind to subscribers and their families knowing that if needed, emergency assistance is available at the push of a button. Call us today for more information at toll free 800-259-1234. Home Health Care Services (Medicare Certified) American Nursing Services 820 Jordan, Suite 525 Shreveport, LA 71101 (318) 425-2641 www.american-nurse.com American Nursing Services is a Medicare certified home health agency which offers Physical, Occupational and
Speech Therapists, Skilled Nursing Services, including IV Therapy and Certified Wound Care Specialists, Medical Social Workers, and Home Health Aides. For more information, please call (318) 425-2641. Synergy Home Care 2533 Bert Kouns, Suite 117 Shreveport, LA 71118 (318) 550-0285 As a leader of home care services for more than a decade, we set the pace for innovation by offering a variety of specialty and disease management programs that go above and beyond the minimum standard of home care. Medicare certified home health care services to persons in their homes, including skilled nursing care; physical, occupational and speech therapy services; home health aides services and medical social worker services. For more info, call (318) 550-0285.
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Home Care Services Family Care Services 7623 Pines Road Shreveport, LA 71129 (318) 671-1799 Since 1992, catering to the needs of others by providing companionship, understanding and experienced care for persons in their homes. Providing assistance with dressing, cooking, light housekeeping, errands, and doctor appointments. Insured, licensed, and bonded. Serving all of North Louisiana. For more information, call (318) 671-1799
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Home Assistance Services, Inc. 2533 Bert Kouns, #119 Shreveport, LA 71118 (318) 682-8182 Since 1987, providing care to persons living in Northwest, Northeast, and Central Louisiana. Accepting Private Pay, Long Term Care Insurance, Workmen’s Compensation, Medicaid Programs. For additional information, please call (318) 682-8182. Northwest INCS, Inc. 4111 Metro Drive Shreveport, LA 71109 (318) 636-0390 (877) 808-4627 Northwest INCS is an agency which believes in taking
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a holistic and person centered approach to servicing individuals. We provide an array of services, focused on developing well rounded individuals with and without disabilities. We aid and assist individuals with the skills and confidence needed to live productive lives and become a meaningful member of society. As well as provide companionship services to the elderly population. All individuals have the right to live their life according to their choices and dreams, without having to base their life on their limitations. We make this possible through our supervised independent living program, as well as all other services. For more information, please call (318) 636-0390. ResCare HomeCare 820 Jordan Street, Suite 390 Shreveport, LA 71101 (318) 678-1890 ResCare HomeCare, the nation’s largest non-franchised home care provider, is proud to offer flexible, affordable, dependable services including personal care and support; homemaking, companion services, and non-skilled private duty care. Accepting Private Pay and insurance, Long Term Care Insurance, Veterans Benefits, and Workmen’s Compensation. For information call, (318) 678-1890. Hospice Services Community Hospices of America 8660 Fern Avenue, Suite 145 Shreveport, LA 71105 (318) 524-1046 www.Hospicecompassus.com Serving your community with heartfelt compassion since 2006.At Community Hospices of America, our mission is serving terminally ill patients and their families with compassion, integrity and excellence. Community Hospices of America offers the highest clinical standards for day-to-day medical care, including providing pain and symptom management. Our family-centered approach focuses on the patient, led by an interdisciplinary team, including a medical director, nurses, social workers, non-denominational chaplains, counselors and trained volunteers. Our goal is to provide the greatest possible comfort and care for those who experience one of life’s most intimate and challenging moments. For more information, please call (318) 524-1046. The Best Of Times
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The Alzheimer’s Association estimates that in 2008, 9.9 million caregivers provided 8.5 billion hours of unpaid care, which amounts to some $94 billion in value. Hospice Services tients and their families across (continued) the country each day. Our teams of caregivers consist of Odyssey Healthcare registered nurses, physicians, 8508 Line Avenue home healthcare aides, social Shreveport, LA 71106 workers, chaplains, bereave(318) 868-8788 ment counselors and trained www.odsyhealth.com volunteers. They provide palAt Odyssey HealthCare, liative care to ease pain and we improve the quality of life discomforting symptoms. In for patients facing terminal addition, they provide psychodiagnoses while providing social and spiritual support for support for their loved ones. both patients and their loved We’ve been meeting this spe- ones. Patients typically recial need since 1996. Odyssey ceive our services in their own is one of the largest hospice homes, in nursing homes, in providers in the country, of- hospitals, or in assisted living fering personalized care and facilities. For more info, please support to thousands of pa- call (318) 868-8788. A member of the ResCare family of companies
Call us today at: 318.678.1890 Shreveport, Louisiana Branch
Helping you live life on your own terms ResCare HomeCare, the nation’s largest non-franchised home care provider, is proud to offer flexible, affordable, dependable services including:
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t 1FSTPOBM $BSF 4VQQPSU t )PNFNBLJOH t $PNQBOJPO 4FSWJDFT t /PO TLJMMFE 1SJWBUF %VUZ $BSF Call for a free consultation!
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Willis Knighton Hospice of Louisiana 3300 Albert Bicknell Dr., #3 Shreveport, LA 71103 (318) 212-4697 (800) 766-6050 Hospice of LA-WKHS provides skilled services and compassionate support from a team of professionals that includes the attending physician, registered nurses, social workers, chaplains, home health aides, and volunteers. This team works with the patient and the family to provide the best care possible. We at Hospice recognize that the journey of life is transition. We focus on the quality of life rather than the quantity of life by letting the patient live at home surrounded by loved ones and familiar possessions and letting the patient live life his or her own way. For more information, contact us at (318) 212-4697. Medical Clinic Highland Clinic 1455 East Bert Kouns Shreveport, LA 71115 (318) 798-4500 www.highlandclinic.com Highland Clinic is an independent physician owned multi-specialty group practice. Since 1917, Highland Clinic has provided quality health care to the Shreveport, Bossier City and surrounding communities, and has grown to be the largest multi-specialty group practice in the area. It is our sincere wish to serve you in the tradition which has long distinguished Highland Clinic. It is our philosophy that patients are our number one priority. Regular hours for doctors’ appointments and the Business Office are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Highland Clinic offices are closed on weekends and most holidays. 24 hour, 7 day a week, on-call coverage
is available for all physicians. For more information, please call (318) 798-4500. Medical Supplies and Equipment First Response Medical Supply 1701 Old Minden Rd., #32 Bossier City, LA 71111 (318) 746-7774 Offering products and services for Medicare and nonMedicare patients including all types of wheelchairs, stools, walkers, diabetic shoes, patient care beds, canes, and much more. For more information, call (318) 746-7774. Nursing Home and Rehabilitation Services Leslie Lakes Retirement Center 1355 Sixth Street Arcadia, LA 71001 (318) 263-9581 (800) 850-5505 Professional staff provide quality care 24 hours a day. Offers full range of nursing services and therapy services. Spotless and sanitary are watchwords throughout the entire facility. Experienced staff prepare quality meals and provide special diets daily. An independent living apartment complex is located next door to nursing facility to provide private living accommodations in a community atmosphere. For more info, call 800-850-5505. NurseCare of Shreveport 1736 Irving Place Shreveport, LA 71101 (318) 221-1983 NurseCare of Shreveport is a newly renovated center with a very loving, caring, clean environment in which to recuperate or live. It is a nursing and rehabilitation center where persons can come to get well whenever possible and return to their community and where people come to “life� when TheBestOfTimesNews.com
HAVING TROUBLE PAYING FOR YOUR MEDICINES? A trusted place for information and counseling on all available long term care support options for seniors, disabled adults and their caregivers.
We Can Help... • With crisis intervention. • With applications for the Prescription Assistance Program. • With Medicare counseling and assist with Part D selection. • Make it easier to find health and social support options. • Support families in their efforts to care for their loved ones. • Streamline and simplify the eligibility process for various programs. • Target individuals who are at imminent risk of being institutionalized. • Ensure that clients understand their long term care options.
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Just Ask. � Call 318.632.5900 or 1.800.793.1198 4015 Greenwood Road Shreveport, LA 71109 seniorx@caddocoa.org www.caddocouncilonaging.org www.louisianaanswers.com The Best Of Times
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they need to be at a home. The services provided by our center include some services, including but not limited to – Certified IV therapy, trach care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, wound care including wound vac and wound debridement, contracture management, ultrasound, e-stim, restraint reduction, bowel and bladder training, secure behavioral unit, stroke and fracture rehabilitation unit, registered dietitian services, daily activity program, transition program to transition back into the community. Some of these services are not provided by other nursing
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facilities in the area. Call today for info at (318) 221-1983. Resource Information Alzheimer’s Assn. of LA Shreveport Regional Office 910 Pierremont, Suite 410 Shreveport, LA 71106 (318)861-8613; (800)272-3900 www.alz.org/louisiana The Alzheimer’s Association Helpline operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in 140 languages. Our staff is highly trained and knowledgeable about all aspects of Alzheimer’s disease. Call us at 1-800-2723900. if you have questions about Alzheimer’s disease or memory loss, medications
and treatment options, brain health and care options; How the Association can help you; Caregiving tips and respite care options; Services available in your community and referrals. You can also call us for emotional support. We know that living with Alzheimer’s can be overwhelming at times. Remember, we are here for you - all day, every day. For more info, call (318) 861-8613. Caddo Council on Aging – Disability Resource Center 4015 Greenwood Road Shreveport, LA 71109 (318) 632-2090 (800) 793-1198 www.caddocouncilonaging. com Louisiana SenioRx Aging and Disability Resource Center for Northwest Louisiana can assist persons 60 and older as well persons who are 21 years of age or older with a long term disability in finding
services to help them improve their health, independence, and quality of life. For information, call (318) 632-2090 or toll free 800-793-1198. Urgent Care Services Velocity Care 7045 Youree Drive Shreveport, LA 71105 (318) 798-3763 www.velocitycare.com We offer a fast and convenient alternative to long waits in the ER for non-life threatening injuries and illnesses. For your convenience, Velocity Care is fully licensed to dispense medications that are commonly used in this field of practice (i.e. antibiotics, muscle relaxers, cough medications, etc.). This will help you avoid a potentially long wait at the pharmacy and allow you to get back to your everyday activities. For more information, please call (318) 798-3763.
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Some years ago I ran into Giuseppe when he was in charge of another restaurant. When complimented on our meal, he said, in effect; if you think that was something, just wait! With radiant eyes he eagerly described plans to open an eponymously-named restaurant in Shreveport that would be, he promised, “the best of the best.” I’m here to report that he didn’t exaggerate. Not even a little bit. Investing what is obviously a ton of money and employing the talents of many artists, including himself, he has produced a breathtaking restaurant that introduces a “wow factor” unseen before on this scale in this town. Ristorante Giuseppe, my family of foodie friends, is a destination restaurant; a place to go when a leisurely and spectacular meal is what you’re looking for. The total effect, excellent food included, is as impressive as hell, if you’ll excuse my French (especially about an Italian restaurant). O u r brunch reservations were on a beautiful Sunday morning (actually around 11-ish) and we were warmly greeted by a hostess who thanked us for calling ahead to warn of a slightly late arrival. As she escorted us The Best Of Times
through a vast but largely empty place I wondered why such a late notice was even necessary. However, and much to my surprise, it didn’t take long for every single table in the huge main dining room to be occupied by well-dressed diners who obviously know a good thing when they taste it. Oh, and did I mention they offer “bottomless” Mimosas, champagne and Bellinis for only $5.95 at brunch? They do!
Our table was served by the buoyant and beautiful Amy, who was aided by Jacob, new on the job but clearly not new to waiting tables. One of his primary tasks was to keep our Mimosa glasses filled. He is very good at that, bless him. Here’s what you need to take away from this review in a nutshell: We found absolutely nothing to complain about. The food, service, view, ambience and even the music were perfect. Those who frequent my reviews know I don’t hesitate to complain as necessary, so you can imagine the pleasure of
finding every detail carefully thought-out, every morsel delicious, and every moment in this beautiful place a pure joy. This is especially important when you consider that brunch took two hours. One cannot rush such clear-eyed genius. Everything from the breads and pastas to the dense and creamy gelatos are house-made in an open kitchen bigger than my entire house. Giuseppe imported his kitchen in toto from
Milan, Italy. Wow! The four of us shared three appetizers. The Mozzarella Vegeteriana ($7.95) layered the title cheese with grilled eggplant, zucchini, tomato and homemade pesto. All of the individual flavors were distinct and yet joined into a big “mouth filling” taste. The pesto was especially wonderful. Carpaccio ($8.95). Thin slices of raw beef tenderloin sprinkled with shaved parmesan and basil
pesto isn’t for everybody, but it made me go weak at the knees in appreciation of such excellence. Cold-smoked Salmon ($9.95) topped with onions, capers, olive oil and lemon juice and served on toast points, was the third choice. A tablemate said it was the best he’d ever had. Our entrees included Eggs Benedict ($10.95), three perfectly spherical eggs on a bed of tender fresh spinach (seen on page 4); Chicken Picatta ($8.95), with its breast slathered with capers, lemon, butter and pepper flakes, resting on angel hair pasta; Chicken Parmigiana ($11.95), with mozzarella and tomato sauce on pasta; and Shrimp Santa Carlo ($12.95), featuring mushrooms, scallions and cognac cream sauce, served on spinach. After such bounty, we were reduced to “tasting” but two of their exciting desserts. We chose Crème Brûlée & chocolate Gelato ($4.95), a sensation of creamy flavors, and Strawberry Fiore ($5.95), featuring a crushed almond shell cup filled with strawberries, dark chocolate, zabaione and an apricot glaze. One day we will all pass on to our Heavenly reward. That reward will most certainly include Strawberry Fiore! In the mockumentary “This is Spinal Tap,” the character Nigel Tufnel (Christopher Guest) was proud of his Marshall guitar amplifiers because the control knobs went to 11, and not the usual ten. This great restaurant is surely an ELEVEN on that one-to-ten scale. Go, enjoy! It’s heavenly.
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Interview conducted and article written by the award-winning
amanda newton
Everyone knows that volunteers serve a vital role in many organizations. While people might only be able to give a few hours a month, those hours make a real difference. Guin Myers, 76, of Bossier City, knows what an immense difference volunteers can make. In fact she is a volunteer, although maybe not your typical volunteer. Since 1992 Myers has served as a Red Cross volunteer at Barksdale Air Force Base. She is the volunteer coordinator, which means she oversees the training and volunteer work of about 40 volunteers. In 2008, Myers donated 950 hours to her volunteer work at the base. That is an average of over 18 hours a week. That is some dedicated volunteering. In 2006, Myers and her volunteers gave 13,587 hours and saved the base medial group $146,875. Myers experience with the Red Cross
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goes back many years. Her first encounter with the organization wasn’t a happy time, but it did make an impression on her. “I picked the Red Cross because my brother was killed in St. George’s Harbour, Bermuda, and a Red Cross person came home with him and stayed with the body until it was buried. This was years ago but it impressed me,” she said. After marrying her husband, Roger, Myers and her family moved from base to base and Myers and her four daughters loved it. She said her daughters still like to get up and go as adults. Though never stationed overseas, the family found itself all over the United States. A few of the states she called home include North Dakota, California, Ohio, Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas and Nebraska. When her husband decided to retire, they weren’t stationed at Barksdale, but had been at one point. They liked the area and it put them near two of their daughters. It didn’t take Myers long before she found something to keep her busy. “I don’t know if I could just sit home and do nothing. We had just moved here and I wanted something to do,” Myers said. Myers’ volunteers provide their time
to benefit the day-to-day operations at the 2nd Medical Group. Most of them work in the pharmacy. The medial clinic building at Barksdale is undergoing a renovation and the completed parts are very impressive and modern. Almost any medical service a service person or their families could need, short of surgery and hospitalization, can be obtained at the clinic. All of Myers’ volunteers are either retired military or the spouses or dependents of military personnel. That is the only way they can obtain the clearance needed to work on the base. Otherwise, Myers said, she would be overrun with people who want to volunteer on the base. People are attracted to the novelty of working on a military base, she added. Myers admits that on the base it is a whole different world. “(The base) has rules and regulations and you just follow them without thinking about it,” she said. “You have been around it forever and that is all you know. All my adult life was in the service. When someone tells me I can’t do something, I don’t worry over it, but civilians might have a nervous breakdown. I love the service. I think it is comforting to have those rules and regulations. There is a plan for everything and a piece of paper to go with it.” In fact, one of the biggest challenges for Myers is the paperwork. The training process for volunteers at the base is very in-depth. Each volunteer has to be trained just like the GIs, Myers said. The volunteers have to have a six-part folder, a competency folder, just like the GIs. The folder contains their job description, safety training and CPR training, facility training and training in general. “I have to make sure each volunteer is trained,” Myers said. “All volunteers that are connected to the medical profesTheBestOfTimesNews.com
sion here go through me. That includes the dental clinic, the health and wellness center, and family advocacy.” Considering all of that is it little wonder she has to give almost 20 hours a week to get it done. She tries to do the work in two days, but if a volunteer can’t make it out to the base during her two days, she comes in when she needs to. A person who raised four kids and followed a career military spouse around the county might expect a little rest and relaxation time. Myers, however, finds her volunteer work rewarding in so many ways. And it is not in earning the rewards and plaques that line the walls of her office. Rather, it is the people. “The greatest reward for me is my volunteers,” she said. “There are some I am so close to. Some of my volunteers have been here longer than I have.” She speaks very proudly of her volunteers and a walk down the halls of the clinic finds her inquiring after them and their families. Ask her what she is most proud of in her entire, eventful life, and she has a quick answer. “I am most proud of my four girls,” she
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said with a big smile on her face. “And I am really proud of my great-grandkids, too.” Meyers’ office walls contain, in addition to her awards, pictures of her family which include the four daughters, their spouses, seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. At the 50th anniversary celebration for Myers and her husband last year, all the family came in to take part in the happy event. Myers said some people have told her she reminds them a little bit of a drill sergeant. She doesn’t seem to mind the comparison. To do what she does you would have to be able to give orders and keep people on task. Where she differs from a drill sergeant is that she does her volunteer job with a big smile and a warm heart.
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Article written by
amanda newton Saving Money at the Bank or Credit Union Barksdale Federal Credit Union - 16 area locations. The administrative branch is located at 2701 Village Lane, Bossier City, (318) 549-8240 or 800-647-2328. High 5 Checking Account is available for people over age 55. • No minimum opening deposit • Free Barksdale Federal stock checks • Up to 5 Free photocopies every month • No per-check charge • Earn dividends on balance above $1,000 Stretching a buck applies to not just where you spend it, but also to where you keep it. Here is a list of special senior accounts offered at local banks and credit unions. This list is by no means exhaustive, so if your bank or credit union isn’t on it, then be sure and call them up to find out if you are getting all the discounts to which you are entitled.
Bancorpsouth - Seven area locations. The main branch is located at 6025 Line Avenue, Shreveport, (318) 865-6555. Heritage Checking is available to customers 50 and over. • Interest is earned daily at a competitive rate set weekly by the bank when you maintain a minimum daily ledger balance of $500 or more. • In addition to interest, Heritage Checking provides the following at no additional charge: 48
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• Financial Advantages • Interest on checking • Personalized checks -
First order of special member checks annually • Unlimited checking • MasterCard or VISA credit card (subject to approval) • Security Advantages • $100,000 common carrier accidental death insurance • Payment card protection • DebitSecure • Discounts and Special Savings • Savers Club Book • Bonus travel • Auto trip routing • Travel club • Convenience Advantages • 24-hour ATM convenience • MasterMoneyTM check card • E-mail bank statements • Combined statement option on request • HomeSite Internet banking discounts • Sojourns magazine
High 5 Plus Checking Account Offers the same benefits of High 5 Checking, but with greater dividend earnings. Enjoy dividend earnings and avoid the $8 service fee as long as you open the account with, and maintain a balance of $1500 or more.
Bossier Federal Credit Union - Three local branches. The main branch is located at 1961 Airline Drive, Bossier City, (318) 742-4090. Prestige Checking is a checking account for members age 50 and older. • No Service Charge • Free Checks (economylimit of 2 boxes per order) • 3”x5” Safe Deposit Box ($15 off a large box) • Free Traveler’s Checks • Free Wire Transfers (limit 1 per quarter; no international wires) • Free MasterMoney Debit Card or ATM Card • Overdraft Privilege Service Limit-up to $1000
Carter Federal Credit Union - Six regional locations including 6885 Bert Kouns, Shreveport, (318) 688-3620 or (800) 367-5026. The monthly service fee for the GOLD Checking Account is waived for those 55 and older. • Competitive dividend earnings for members who maintain a higher monthly balance • Two boxes of free basic checks per calendar year CapitalOne Bank - 19 area branch locations including the main office at 333 Travis Street, Shreveport, (318)674-3855. 50+ Free Interest Checking is an interest bearing account designed for people age 50 and older. • No monthly service fee • No minimum balance requirement • No direct deposit requirement • Earn a competitive interest rate • Unlimited check writing • Return of check images for easy record keeping • $50 minimum opening deposit • Free Online Banking - including alerts and bank-to-bank money movement • Free Online Bill Payment Service • Free Platinum Debit Card • Free 24-hour telebanking Citizens National Bank - Six local branches. Office branch is located at 1545 East 70th Street, Shreveport, (318) 797-7000. TheBestOfTimesNews.com
Fifty Plus Checking is available to customers 50 and older. • Service fees are based on activity only • No minimum balance required • No monthly maintenance fee • Free standard printed checks • Free Personal Money Orders • Free Travelers Checks • Free Official Checks • Citizens Choice Discount
including the Bossier City office at 4008 Benton Road, Bossier City, (318) 742-1717.
at 333 Texas Street, Shreveport, (318) 429-1581 or call 1-800-REGIONS.
50+ Free Checking is free for customers 50 and older. • Competitive interest • No minimum balance • No monthly service charge
Regions 50+ LifeGreen Checking is available for people 50 and older. • Free Regions Online Banking with Bill Pay • Free Online Statements • Free LifeGreen Savings Account (if you sign up for on-line statements, direct deposit or use your check card at least 5 times a month) • Free Regions Platinum Visa CheckCard with CheckCard Rewards • 24-Hour Automated Telephone Banking • No Monthly Service Fee • Minimum Opening Deposit $50 • Free Checks • Installment loan discount on alternative fuel vehicles • Special equity line rate (on fixed portion only) on energy efficient purchases for
Fifty Plus Savings is available if you also have a Fifty Plus Checking account. • No monthly maintenance fee and earn their highest rate for a savings account. • $100 required to open account
Red River Bank - Five area locations including the downtown branch at 601 Market Street, Shreveport, (318) 675-2900. Senior Platinum Checking Accounts are available for customers age 62 or older. • Account earns interest on the entire checking account balance • No monthly maintenance fee • No fee for checks written
Community Bank of Louisiana - Eight area branch locations in the area
Regions - Over 10 locations in Shreveport and Bossier. The main branch is located
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your home • Installment loan discount with auto debit from a Regions account • Safe Deposit Box rental discount 30% (subject to availability)
TES Regional Healthcare Federal Credit Union - The credit union is open to employees, independent contractors, or self-employed persons who work regularly in the healthcare industry in Caddo, Bossier, Webster, DeSoto, Claiborne, Lincoln, Bienville and Red River Parishes in Louisiana. The main branch location is 2050 Line Avenue, Shreveport, (318) 681-4335. If you are 55 and older you are eligible for a free checking account. • No maintenance fees • Free checks
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Louisiana ranked least healthy state in the United States* *United Health Foundation
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Call us, we can help!
Brentwood Senior Care Unit (318) 678-7500
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Warning Signs That May Indicate the Need for Treatment
• • • • • • • •
Depression, extreme sadness Confused thinking, difficulty concentrating Hallucinations; hearing voices Misuse of alcohol or medications Disorientation Numerous unexplained physical ailments Difficulties coping with daily living Excessive fears, anxieties or suspiciousness
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It’s time to give our uninsured patients first-class access to health care. Blueprint Louisiana, with input from people like you, has developed a plan that improves access to local care and strengthens doctor training. And we need your help. Spend five minutes at www.blueprintlouisiana.org to learn how you can make a difference in improving not only health care, but ethics, education and roads, too. Together, we will make it happen. lll#WajZeg^ciadj^h^VcV#dg\ Paid for by Blueprint Louisiana
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“You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers” Ophthalmology
Nursing Home Care
My mother has glaucoma and is blind in one eye. When should I be checked, even though I see fine? A family history of glaucoma is a very strong risk factor for the disease. Other risk factors include advancing age, African-American race, and nearsightedness. If you have a first or second degree relative with glaucoma, you should be evaluated as soon as possible. Glaucoma is a painless progressive disease which, left untreated, causes irreversible blindness. If you have a family member with glaucoma or have other risk factors, schedule a screening at 212-3937.
In considering a nursing home for future placement of my mother, I am told that I should review the home’s most recent state survey. Where can I obtain one? Survey results are posted online at www.medicare.gov/NHCompare. You may search the site by city, zip code, or the name of the particular homes. It will give you a comparison of each home to the state and national averages of issues cited. If you do not have Internet access, you may ask the nursing home staff to see the survey since homes are required to display a copy of their most recent survey in a public area.
Chris Shelby, MD
Pierremont Eye Institute 7843 Youree Dr. Shreveport, LA 1105 318-212-3937; www.ShelbyEye.com See our ad on page 24.
Neurosurgery
I have a rotator cuff tear. Do I need surgery? It depends. Rotator cuff tears are a common source of shoulder pain, which increases in incidence with advancing age. A person can have a rotator cuff tear without experiencing pain. (The incidence varies from a reported 5% to 40%.) 40% of tears will enlarge, and of these, 80% will be symptomatic. 20% of patients remain symptom free for a 5 year period. There is no evidence that delaying surgery to attempt a non-operative treatment protocol adversely affects results. If you have significant weakness and/or a large tear, surgery may be advisable sooner. MRI’s are valuable tests to determine tear anatomy and degree.
Who are candidates for balloon kyphoplasty to relieve back problems? The best candidates for balloon kyphoplasty are those who have new (within a few days or a couple of weeks) fracture. Fractures are most common in older patients with osteoporosis and the typical symptom is severe, immediate onset back pain. Kyphoplasty has to be one of the most satisfying procedures - there is practically immediate relief in most cases, and people go home with only 2 tiny needle incisions. We treat other back-related problems which affect pain down the legs of ‘fatiguing” down the legs, and not every patient needs surgery - just an honest assessment.
Mid South Orthopaedics 7925 Youree Drive; Suite 210 Shreveport, LA 71105 (318) 424-3400
April 2009
NurseCare Nursing and Rehab Center 1736 Irving Place Shreveport, LA 71101 (318) 221-1983 See our ad on page 29.
Orthopaedics
John J. Ferrell, M.D.
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Vicki Ott
Dr. Ravish Patwardhan The Comprehensive Neurosurgery Network 8001 Youree Dr., Ste 970 Shreveport, LA 71115 (318) 797-5543 www.neurosurgery.ws TheBestOfTimesNews.com
have shown that first floor and closets are Weather bathrooms often left standing. Facts for • Stay away from windows. Thought • Do not open doors or windows. • Abandon mobile The tornado season has be- homes, even if they are tied gun. Tornadoes can occur at down. • In buildings, go to an any time of the year but they occur more frequently during interior hallway on the lowest the months of April, May, floor or to a designated shelter and June. More occur, on the area. • If in open country, move average, during the month of away from the May than any sighted tornado other month. at a right angle Tornadoes can to it’s path. If occur at any there is no time hour, but the to escape, lie most favored flat in the neartime is between est depression 3:00 p.m. and such as a ditch 7:00 p.m. duror ravine using ing maximum your arms and daytime heathands to protect ing. Tornadoes your head. usually move April has proven to be an from the southwest to the interesting month. Our hottest northeast. When a tornado watch is April temperature of record issued, it means that there is was 96° on the 29th in 1887. a possibility of one or more Coldest of record was 31° on tornadoes developing in or the 3rd, 4th, and 5th in 1987, 31° close to the watch area. The on the 11th in 1989 and 31° outline of the watch area is as late as April 15, 1920. Our shown on television weather latest snowfall of record ocbroadcasts. A tornado warm- curred on April 15, 1933 but ing means that a tornado has it was just a trace...not enough actually been sighted or indi- to measure. Normal April rainfall is 4.42 cated on radar. The warning will give the location of the inches. Last April rainfall meatornado and its direction and sured 2.62 inches. Our wettest April of record was 11.2 inches speed of movement. Here are some tornado in 1957. safety rules. • In homes, a basement Al Bolton, a member of the usually affords the best American Meteorological Soprotection. If there is no ciety and the National Weather basement, take shelter in an Association, began reporting interior closet or bathroom with KSLA-TV in February, on the first floor. Surveys 1954 and for The Best of Times of tornado damage to homes in February, 2002. The Best Of Times
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April Fools Day Arbor Day Baseball Bees Bulbs Daffodils Easter Flowers
Gardening Grass Kites Parades Passover Pollen Rain Robin
Showers Spring Sunshine Taurus Tax Day Tulip Warm Weather Windy
SUDOKU - Fill in the blank
squares in the grid, making sure that every row, column, and 3 x 3 box includes all digits 1 through 9.
(Solution on page 57)
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ACROSS 1 Simpson’s songwriting partner 8 Seize a vehicle in transit 14 European capital 20 Put away one’s sword 21 Comparable thing 22 Chilly period 23 Blackjack 25 Basic element 26 Put out on the market 27 “__ Lang Syne” 28 Hold title to 29 Lifted a glass to 30 Memory unit 32 Grammy Awards category 33 Tom Sawyer’s sweetheart 35 Journal 36 War 40 Part of B.S. 41 Encircled 42 “The Name of the Rose” author Umberto 43 Sue of “Lolita” 45 Handle on a drawer 48 Hitters 50 Diplomat Annan of the U.N. 53 Dunfermline dagger 55 __ Na Na 56 Schedule figs. 58 Snoozes 60 Withdraws formally 62 & others 66 Single Sra. 68 Natalie of “Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice” 70 Senior members 71 Diameter halves 73 Scatter 76 Mother-of-pearl 77 With hands on hips 79 Iditarod terminus 80 Crazy way to The Best Of Times
run 82 The __ the limit! 83 Auk or murre, e.g. 85 __ avis 87 S.F. underground 89 Bookkeeping abbr. 90 See fit 92 Mach+ jets 94 Qaddafi’s first name 99 Stuffed shirt 101 Bread spread, briefly 103 Rower’s need 105 Flasks 106 No-good-__ 108 Casino 112 Grasslike wetland plant 114 Asian range 115 DI times II 116 & so on 117 Gifts bestowed 119 Kick the bucket 120 IBM part 122 Blood: pref. 125 Journalist Fallaci 126 Gin 129 Writers 130 Guy of “Factory Girl” 131 Military decoration 132 Border cutters 133 Arialike solo 134 Schedules anew DOWN 1 Little snakes 2 Brogue or wingtip 3 Recklessly determined 4 Shortcomings 5 Stock-market abbr. 6 Actress Perlman 7 Objects mildly 8 Select personally 9 Party in power 10 Actor Derek
CARDS FOR TWO
By Willy A. Wiseman, New York, New York; Edited by Wayne Robert Williams
(Solution on page 57)
11 Completely wrong 12 Administrative body 13 CIA’s Soviet counterpart 14 Japanese soup 15 Groups of eight 16 Nautically nauseous 17 Bridge 18 Bold observer 19 Like an unkempt lawn 24 Having wings 29 Cicely and Mike 31 Essay 34 Largo and Longboat 36 Spherical body 37 Zadora of “Hairspray” 38 “Waiting for Lefty”
playwright 39 Diving bird 44 Be without 46 William Sydney Porter 47 Deep voices 49 DEA type 51 Sycophants 52 Apple device 54 Commerce sci. 57 Stupefy 59 Rail 61 Unfledged bird 62 Deletes 63 Adopt 64 Solitaire 65 Arm or leg 67 Time qualifier: __ about (2 wds.) 69 Left without words 72 Footnote abbr. 74 Latin 101 verb
75 Linguist Chomsky 78 Dunkable treat 81 Legendary drummer Gene 84 River formations 86 On 88 Sierra Nevada resort 91 Blackbird 93 “Exodus” co- star 95 Full of glee 96 Actor Mastroianni 97 The Greatest 98 Brit. quartermaster 100 Hunting trophy 102 Surpasser 104 Downpours 107 Catherine of “Full Frontal”
109 Rum cocktail 110 Poet Metastasio 111 “The Third Man” instrument 112 Inclined surface 113 Having auricles 118 Without, in France 121 “Little Latin __ Lu” 123 Come together 124 Well- practiced skills 126 Bks. balancer 127 Mil. training course 128 Notes of scales
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places2go, people2see, things2do Theatre fiesta
health fair
volunteer opportunity
Cinco De Mayo FIESTA 2009! May 2 & 3. Downtown Festival Plaza, Saturday 10 am - Midnight; Sunday 12 pm - 8 pm. Sponsored by Cinco de Mayo, Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to raising funds for academic scholorships for Hispanic youth in the Ark-La-tex.
Family Health & Safety Fair and Caregiver Resources Fair for Alzheimer’s Patients - Saturday April 4. 9 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Mall St. Vincent, 3601 Southern Avenue, Shreveport, LA. Hosted by LSU Health Sciences Center and The Best of Times. Free admission and parking, Shots for Tots, entertainment, health screenings, refreshments, demonstrations, door prizes. Entertainment at the main stage at the Sears Mall entrance. The Best of Times Radio Hour LIVE, presented by AFLAC, at 9:00 a.m.
Caddo Council on Aging, Inc. Foster Grandparent Volunteer Program - Looking for New Foster Grandparent Volunteers. For those age 60 years or older who want to make a difference in the lives of special needs children by mentoring and tutoring. You will be helping them to develop their skills, gain confidence, and strength to succeed in life as well. Foster Grandparent Program does not discriminate, on basis of color, national origin, sex, age, religion or based on disability. Pick-up an application at the FGP Office, 4017 Greenwood Road, Shreveport or call 318-632-2199 and ask for Neva Jones, Director or Julie Pender, FGP Secretary/Coord. Applications will be accepted through May 2009. 20 hours weekly – Monday thru Thursday. You will receive a small tax-free stipend that will not affect your Social Security, SSI, or Retirement.
driver Education AARP Driver Safety Program - An 8 hour classroom refresher course for drivers age 50+ which may qualify participants for an automobile insurance premium reduction or discount. Where 2 days are listed, participants must attend both days. Participants must preregister. $14 for non-AARP members; $12 for AARP members. • April 6 & 7 - 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Central Assembly of God Church, 700 Highway 80, Haughton. Contact: Tammy Cammack 318-949-0010; Instructor: James Smith • April 14 & 15 - 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m on 14 April; 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on 15 April. Airline Baptist Church, 4007 Airline Drive, Bossier City. Contact: 318-746-3495; Instructor: James Smith • April 16 & 17 - 8:30 a.m. to 12:30. University Church of Christ, 2045 E. 70th Street, Shreveport. Contact: Church Secretary at 318-797-6333; Instructor: Malcolm Parker • April 22 & 23 - 1 pm to 5pm. Shriner’s Hospital, 3100 Samford Ave., Shreveport. Host: Shriner’s Hospital. Contact Person: Fred Kreig 318-2264262; Instructor: Malcolm Parker • April 24 & 25 - 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Graywood Baptist Church, 5841 Colquitt Road, Keithville. Contact: 318925-9508; Instructor: Ray Branton • April 28 & 29 - 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. First United Methodist Church, Head of Texas Street, Shreveport. Contact: 318-424-7771; Instructor: Ray Branton. • May 5 - 9:00 a.m (8 hour courseone day only). Friends 50+, 1110 Doctors Drive, Springhill. Contact: 318539-1040; Instructor: Ray Branton.
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theatre Steel Magnolias - May 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16 at 8 p.m. May 3, 10, 17 at 2 p.m. A coproduction of Shreveport Little Theatre & East Bank Theatre, 630 Barksdale Blvd, Bossier City. Set in a Louisiana beauty parlor where all the ladies who are “anybody” come to have their hair done, Truvy, M’Lynn, Shelby, Clairee, Annelle and Ouiser laugh, cry and compare menfolk. These women draw on their underlying strength - and love - which gives the play, and its characters, the special quality to make them truly touching, funny and marvelously amiable company in good times and bad. Box office open 12-4 pm M-F. (318) 424-4439. $13 - $15.
art exhibit Paint the Parks: A Norton Special Exhibition - Through Sunday, May 3. Presented by R. W. Norton Art Gallery, 4747 Creswell Avenue, Shreveport. Exhibition presents the top 100 paintings chosen from hundreds of entries in the 2008 competition depicting scenes from America’s 390 national parks. Tues. - through Fri. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sat. and Sun. 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. On April 4 join us for the Coyote Sky Tour, an outdoor walking tour exploring Native American myths. FREE.
support groups Amputee Support Group - April 2 (first Thursday of each month) at 6:30 p.m. Certified Limb & Brace, 3227 Portland Ave. (corner of I-20 and Greenwood Rd.), Shreveport. Information and fellowship. FREE. For more info call 636-9145
fitness 2009 Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk - Saturday, May 9 - 8:00 a.m. Louisiana Boardwalk, Bossier City. Memory Walk is the nation’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer care, support and research. Every Memory Walk participant is asked to raise money for the fight against Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s Association staff are ready to support you every step of the way with tips, tools and advice. Call 318-861-8613 or email us at louisianainfo@alz.org Annual Parkinson’s 5K Power Walk/ Run - Saturday, May 2 at C. Bickham Dickson Park in Shreveport. 8:00am. Held to raise awareness and provide public education about Parkinson’s disease. Participants may register at Sports Spectrum, 7607 Youree Drive or online at www. sportspectrumusa.com, or the morning of the event. Early registration (by April 25) is $14. After April 25, the fee is $16, until the day of the race when it is $20. Students may register for $10. This event is sponsored by the Parkinson’s Disease Resource of LSU Health Sciences Center. The Resource is affiliated with the American Parkinson Disease Association. TheBestOfTimesNews.com
Have you made prearrangements for your family, or do you still have that to do? Leaving these decisions to your children on the worst day of their lives is a terrible emotional burden.
Call Today To Receive a FREE Family Planning Portfolio
Centuries Memorial 8801 Mansfield Shreveport, LA 71108 (318) 686-4334
The Best Of Times
Hill Crest Memorial 601 Hwy. 80 East Haughton, LA 71037 (318) 949-9415
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Credit Unions and Banks
Ambulance Services Balentine Ambulance Service (318) 222-5358 More info on page 9 Artificial Limbs and Braces
Certified Limb and Brace (318) 636-9145 More info on page 54 Snell’s Orthotics and Prosthetics (318) 424-4167 More info on page 21 Associations and Organizations Alzheimer’s Association of Louisiana Shreveport Regional Office (318) 861-8613 More info on page 39 Battlewings 318-746-8755 More info on page 9 BluePrint Louisiana (866) 483-3920 More info on page 51 Bossier Council on Aging (318) 741-8302 Caddo Council on Aging (318) 632-2090
Shreveport Little Theater (318) 424-4439 More info on page 14
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The Robinson Film Center (318) 424-9090 More info on page 59 The Best of Times (318) 636-5510 More info on page 7 Care Providers Comfort Keepers 318) 934-0090 More info on page 15 Family Care Services (318) 671-1799 More info on page 35
TES Regional Healthcare Federal Credit Union (318) 681-4335 More info on page 49
Gutter Helmet of North Louisiana (800) 284-9777 More info on page 19
Educational Courses
Stanley Steemer Carpet Cleaner (318) 631-6655 More info on page 18
Bible Correspondence Course (318) 797-6333 More info on page 9 Emergency Response Systems Acadian OnCall 1-800-259-1234 More info on page 28 Financial Services/ Legal Services
Home Assistance Services (318) 682-8182 More info on page 27
Daniel Scarborough, Attorney at Law (318) 673-9807 More info on page 15
Northwest INCS, Inc. (318) 636-0390 More info on page 42
Genworth Financial T. Wayne DesLattes (318) 560-0299 More info on page 52
ResCare Home Care (318) 678-1890 More info on page 40 Seniors Club Personal Care Services (318) 635-0010 More info on page 60 Cemeteries Funeral Homes Centuries Memorial (318) 686-4334 More info on page 57 Hill Crest Memorial (318) 949-9415 More info on page 57 Counseling Services The Center for Families (318) 222-0759 More info on page 8
Home Maintenance Services
Serio Investments Phillip Serio (318) 221-0889 More info on page 47 The Law Practice of Joseph Gilsoul (318) 222-2100 More info on page 64 Flowers Flowers Forever, LLC (318) 925-2323 More info one page 19 Hearing Care Services Shreve Hearing Aid Service (318) 797-7733 More info on page 9
2009 April 2009
Home Health Agencies (Medicare Certified) American Nursing Services (318) 425-2641 More info on page 30 Ark-La-Tex Home Health (318) 747-6180 More info on page 24 Synergy Home Care (318) 550-0285 More info on page 38 Hospice Care Providers Community Hospices of America (318) 524-1046 More info on page 3, 34 Odyssey Healthcare (318) 868-8788 More info on page 35 St. Joseph Hospice (318) 222-8723 More info on page 15 Willis Knighton Hospice of Louisiana (318) 212-4697 More info on page 30
Medical, Life, and Other Insurance AFLAC (318) 681-9564 More info on page 11 Sterling Health Plans (866) 217-3666 More info on page 62 Medical and Beauty Spas Fixx Medical Spa (318) 798-0635 More info on page 60 Jeany Mitchell’s Skin Technology (318) 347-3567 More info on page 52 Moving and Storage Central – Herrin Storage and Transfer (318) 221-5135 More info on page 47 Medical Supplies and Equipment First Response Medical Supply (318) 746-7774 More info on page 43 Home Health Medical Supply (318) 631-1466 More info on page 12 Physician Services
Home Infusion Services
Cardiovascular Consultants, LLP Dr. Phillip Rozeman (318) 631-6400 More info on page 17
IV Plus (318) 683-5139 More info on page 10
Dr. Bryan Vekovius (318) 675-3733 More info on page 54
Hospitals
Dr. David Persson (318) 798-4455 More info on page 21
Brentwood Hospital (318) 678-7500 More info on page 51
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Dr. Gary Booker (318) 227-9600 More info on page 26 Highland Clinic (318) 798-4500 More info on page 27 Dr. Laura Anissian (318) 798-4618 More info on page 24 Pierremont Eye Institute Dr. Chris Shelby (318) 212-3937 More info on page 24 Total Care Medical Clinic Dr. Howard Lippton (318) 424-6363 More info on page 63 Velocity Care (318) 798-3763 More info on page 37 WK Urgent Care Center - Bossier (318) 212-7520 More info on page 2
The Best Of Times
WK Urgent Care Center - Shreveport (318) 212-3520 More info on page 2 Radio Stations KWKH AM 1130 (318) 688-1130 More info on page 23 Real Estate Agents Century 21 Judy Holland (318) 349-6983 More info on page 57 Restaurants Imperial Wok Chinese Restaurant (318) 687-6668 More info on page 57 ShoeBooty’s Restaurant, Bakery, & Catering (318) 550-0444 More info on page 53
Senior Living Options Azalea Estates Assisted Living (318) 797-2408 More info on page 16 Colonial Oaks Guest Care Center (318) 742-5420 More info on page 5 Kingsley Place of Shreveport (318) 524-2100 More info on page 30 Leslie Lakes Retirement Center (318) 263-9581 More info on page 38 Live Oak Retirement Center (318) 212-2000 More info on page 13 NurseCare of Shreveport (318) 221-1983 More info on page 29
Pilgrim Manor Guest Care Center (318) 742-1623 More info on page 5 Shreveport Manor Guest Care Center (318) 222-9482 More info on page 5 Spring Lake Guest Care Center (318) 868-4126 More info on page 5 The Bradford Guest Care Center (318) 688-1010 More info on page 5 The Guest House Guest Care Center (318) 686-0515 More info on page 5 The Waterford at Shreveport (318) 524-3300 More info on page 11
Travel Services Cruises, Inc (318) 746-3745 More info on page 15 Red River Coaches (318) 221-5797 More info on page 46 Telephone Book User-Friendly Phone Book (318) 865-1280 More info on page 51 Weight Loss Counselors and Centers Jenny Craig Center (318) 798-2608 More info on page 22 The Center for Medical Weight Loss (318) 629-8746 More info on page 20
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1 - Alpha Theta Society, an educational, philanthropic, and social sorority, enjoyed their luncheon/meeting at Biscottis Bistro. Enjoying the fellowship are: (a) Kiki Casten, Susan Morrison, Carolyn Lampkins, Ouice Kwasnik, Laura Cannon ; (b) Alva Ironsmith, Ann Lawton, Peggy Cloud, Shirley Walker; (c) Mitzi Bryson, and Billie Singler. 2 - Mayor Cedric Glover congratulates Candy Welch, Berte Muslow, and Shelly Gray who are The Women Commission 2009 Hera Award recipients. 3 - Lee McClendon, Ronnie Wagley, and Tommy Canterbury at the opening of the Outpatient Therapy Department of Specialists Hospital of Shreveport. 4 - Shirley Weaver with husband A.P. celebrating his 81st birthday. 5 - A packed house enjoyed the March 10th Silver Screening presentation of Citizen Kane at the Robinson Film Center in downtown Shreveport. The film was sponsored by Humana and the luncheon was sponsored by The Best of Times. (a) Proudly showing off the copies of The Best of Times and Silver Pages that they picked up that morning are door prize winners Marlene Simonton, Joan Ferlito, Jeananne Birdsong, and Elsie Stegall. (b) Patricia Horton with Humana greets guests Todd Tillman and Anna Marie McGarry. (c) Additional door prize winners included Pat Goeders, Wilda Andrews, Rose Worrell, Mae Zakris, Janatte Cox, Faye Spigener, Connie Watson, and Dorothy Keys. (d) Kitty and Dwain Brobst and Joann and Curtis Williams enjoyed lunch and the movie. 6 - Polly and Don Burnside of Olivet, Michigan came to Shreveport for the Bassmaster Classic and attend the expo at the Shreveport Convention Center. 7 - Attorney Jacqueline Scott, City Attorney Ramon Lafitte, Dottie Bell & Candy Welch at the Judicial Council and National Bar Association Social. 9 - The Silver Sneakers exercise class at the Plex Gym celebrated Mardi Gras in style. In recognition of attending the most classes Patsy Gardner was crowned Queen; Lonnie Delatin was crowned King; and Nin Rambin was recognized as runner-up.
Share your photos with us. Email to Editor.Calligas@gmail.com or mail to P.O. Box 19510, Shreveport, LA 71149.
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“
My clients here at Sterling really enjoy the fact that
”
we are local.
Sterling Agent, Sylvia O’Leary
Our Health Plan Clients Seem to Like Us. A lot.
For years, Sterling Health Plans has helped people just like you get the most out of Medicare and their health care. And we’d like to add you to the family. We are very proud of the fact that our clients like how we do business. We hope we can provide the same caring service for you. Call toll-free 1-866-217-3666 from 7 am to 10 pm Central time. Hearing impaired persons may call our TTY line toll-free 1-888-858-8567. 2620 Centenary Blvd, Suite 207, Shreveport, LA 71104 www.sterlingplans.com
Underwritten by Sterling Life Insurance Company
Available through your Sterling Agent: Health, Life, Prescription Drug, Long Term Care and Critical Condition or Cancer Plans. M0010_S4802_17009(8/08) 62
April 2009
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See a REAL doctor right now 7 A.M. to Midnight ~ 7 Days a Week VACCINES 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.
Flu Shot TB Skin Test Pneumovax Adacel (Tdap) Tetanus Hepatitis B MMR Menactra (Meningitis) Gardasil (HPV) Zostavix (Shingles)
$ 20 15 40 40 50 60 90 105 175 190
LABORATORY TESTS 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14.
$ 5 TSH (Low Thyroid) 8 CBC 8 Chemistry (Liver & Kidney) 8 Lipic Cholesterol 15 Urinalysis 15 HIV Screen 15 HgbA1c (Diabetes) 15 PSA (Prostate) 20 Rubella Titer 20 2 hr. GTT (Diabetes) 20 Ferritin/Iron/TIBC 25 Varicella Titer H. Pylori (Stomach Ulcer Test) 30 (Hep. A, B, C) 50
$ 40 per visit
during regular hours 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
$ 70 per visit after regular hours 7:00 p.m. to Midnight
Total Care Medical clinic 2328 Line Avenue, Shreveport, Louisiana 71104 SPORTS PHYSICALS only $25
(318) 424-MDMD (6363)
The Best Of Times
I-20 Kings Hwy.
Line Ave.
No visit charge for patients for only Labs/Vaccines
April 2009
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