2016 HoosierTimes Senior Resource Guide Fall Edition

sENIORs Your resource Guide • Fall 2016

and knee 2 Hip replacement

14 Home security 20 Life with Lyme disease 24 The ‘me’ in dementia 26 Aquatic fitness 29 Connecting with caregivers

A pu bli c Ation of

Autumn Hills Senior Living

3202 Moores Pike, Bloomington, IN 47401 812-269-8200

Comfort Keepers

4101 E. Third St., Bloomington, IN 47401 812-822-0145

Elder Care Connections, Inc

239 E. Winslow, Bloomington, IN 47401 812-330-3771

Jill’s House, LLC

751 E. Tamarack, Bloomington, IN 47401 812-278-1072

Meadowood Retirement Community

2455 Tamarack Trail, Bloomington, IN 47408 812-336-7060

Mitchell Manor/Life Care Center of America 24 Teke Burton Dr., Mitchell, IN 47446 812-849-2221

Parkview Village Christian Care, Inc. 800 S. West St., Odon, IN 47562 812-636-3000

Residence at McCormick’s Creek 210 State Rd. 43, Spencer, IN 47460 812-829-3444

St. Vincent Dunn

1600 23rd St., Bedford, IN 47421 812-275-3331

MEDICAID ACCEPTED

MEDICARE ACCEPTED

REHABILITATION CARE

RESPITE CARE

SECURE ALZHEIMER’S UNIT

SEMI-PRIVATE ROOM

PRIVATE ROOM/ APARTMENT

ASSISTED LIVING

AT HOME CARE

CONTINUING CARE

INDEPENDENT LIVING

SENIORS RESOURCE GUIDE GRID

sENIORS Your Resource Guide • Fall 2016

Tableof Contents

2 Experience Matters 4 Active Habit 6 Hearing Loss and Dementia 7 Allen Funeral Home 8 A Getaway That’s Not Far Away!

10 St. Vincent Dunn Senior Renewal Center 12 Choosing the Right Medicare Plan 13 Give the Gift of Preplanning 14 Safe Houses 16 SilverSneakers and BOOM! 17 How to Choose the Right Nursing Home 18 Ivy Tech’s Center for Lifelong Learing 20 Life with Lyme 22 Using Home Health to Stay Connected 24 See Me, Not Just My Dementia 26 The Benefits of Water Exercise 28 Aging in Place 29 The Right Caregiver is a Treasure 30 Senior Transitions 32 Flu Shot 101: What Seniors Should Know 34 Resource Guide

Publisher

Cory Bollinger Advertising Director

Laurie Ragle

Production Coordinator

Brooke McCluskey

Art Direction and Design

Andrew Lehman Sales and Advertising

Laurie Ragle 812-331-4291 lragle@heraldt.com

Special thanks to the following agencies for information used in the Resource Guide—Area 8-CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions, Area 10-Agency on Aging, Area 15-Hoosier Uplands.

Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

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Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

Experience Matters Courtesy Midwest Center for Joint Replacement

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idwest Center for Joint Replacement (MCJR) is an Indianapolis private practice specializing in hip and knee replacement surgery. MCJR’s four surgeons, Drs. Michael Berend, Wesley Lackey, Richard Jackson and Joshua Carter have over 50 years of combined experience in total joint replacements.

MCJR desires to put the patient back at the forefront of the healthcare experience.

Everything about MCJR’s office is designed to make the patient experience as painfree as possible. When you call to make an appointment, a live person will answer the phone. If you come in for a consultation, you will be greeted by smiling faces amidst a cheerful color palette of turquoise, green and crisp white.

Should you have an emergency after office hours, you will have access to your surgeon’s cell phone number.

“When folks see us for the first time, they’re often fearful of what we might discuss,” said Dr. Berend. “It’s a vulnerable time for people, but it’s a privilege to walk in that space with them.

We want to exude compassion and skill, then really bear the patient’s burdens in the time of recovery.”

All four surgeons specialize in total knee, partial knee, total anterior hip and complex joint revision surgeries. However, Dr. Jackson also provides care for general orthopedic conditions including shoulder, hand, ankle, and foot disorders and injuries. Twice a month, Dr. Steven Herbst, a foot and ankle specialist of Central Indiana Orthopedics in Muncie, sees patients at MCJR. Drs. Berend and Lackey also see patients at Bloomington Bone and Joint Clinic several times a month for the convenience of patients in

southern Indiana.

The MCJR surgeons are national leaders in outpatient joint replacement surgery; even total hip and total knee replacement surgeries can now be done in the outpatient setting.

“Thirty years ago, we didn’t have joint replacement surgery the way we do today,” said Dr. Berend. “People used to stay in the hospital for over a week, and now 60 percent of our patients are home within six hours.”

MCJR surgeons perform outpatient surgeries at Midwest Specialty Surgery Center, located on MCJR’s first floor. Midwest Specialty Surgery Center provides two state-of-the-art operating rooms with advanced infection control systems and eight private recovery suites. Patient satisfaction with the surgery center has been at 98 percent in the past two years.

“Any surgery is a big life event, but if we can minimize the impact on the patient’s life, that’s a huge step in making surgery less invasive,” said Dr. Lackey. “Quicker recovery, less pain, and a quicker return home are our goals in any joint replacement surgery.”

For those who need additional medical attention, the MCJR surgeons also perform inpatient surgery at Franciscan Center for Hip and Knee Surgery in Mooresville. The Center for Hip and Knee has performed over 40,000 successful total joint replacements in 30 years.

“I have a great deal of respect for the doctors here at MCJR,” said Dr. Jackson. “They’re great physicians and they’re very compassionate. The patient is the center of care here.”

See our ad on the back page.

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Active Habit

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Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

By Zachary Blackwell, activity director, Mitchell Manor

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summary of Issac Newton’s first law of motion is objects in motion tend to stay in motion unless acted upon. We all understand that Newton was a mathematician and physicist and not a social scientist. This statement, though, can be applied to us nonetheless. Being active is very important. It takes effort or intentionality to stay active or inactive. The more we do either way, the easier it is to stay there. We either form the habit of activity or inactivity.

What is a habit? The dictionary defines it as a usual way of behaving: something that a person does often in a regular and repeated way. Habits form from regular choices we make. In the book “Love Your Life Not Theirs” by Rachel Curz, there is a quote from Charles Duhigg about habits.

“When a habit emerges, the brain stops fully participating in decision making. It stops working so hard … So unless you deliberately fight a habit …the pattern will unfold automatically.”

So what? If we continue to choose not to be active — physically, socially, mentally, and spiritually — those are the habits we will fall into. Like the previous quote says, once the habit emerges we would deliberately have to fight against it to become active again. What then are some ways we can stay active or return to a more active life habits?

Stay Active

Relationships

At Mitchell Manor we hold family events so they can visit and continue to share life experiences. One way this happens is our annual Thanksgiving dinner. We go all out make it feel as close as possible to family meals that they may have made when they were able. We also have social events to foster friendships among the residents themselves. One of these is our White Hat Lady group. This group gets together to make things to raise money for needy families. The action of servicing has bonded them together as close friends What is more valuable than gold, but doesn’t cost a penny?

Hard to find but easy to lose? A friend! Having friends and family around us is so important for every stage of life. In trying to maintain our relationships we may find that we are staying active and trying new things. Having people to share life with makes life that much better.

We started off talking about the law of motion. If we could, let us put it this way: “People that are active will tend to be active”. As we all move through each stage of life, let us continue to create active habits — habits of staying active, because it’s better to stay active than have to start again. The habit of trying new things — because keeping and active mind is very important. Last but not least, build and maintain relationships, because life in general is better with a friend.

As we have already talked about, the best way to be active is to stay active. We have all heard the stories of people saying, “I can’t wait until I retire, so I don’t have to do anything.” This can be a very dangerous statement. This could bring us to really not doing anything. Nothing wrong with relaxing, but find ways to stay active. This may look like: volunteering for an organization you have a passion for, visiting friends and family, putting time into your hobbies like hiking, woodworking or puzzles.

The activity department at Mitchell Manor strives to create a atmosphere on this concept. We want to keep our residents at least at the same level they were at home. We encourage them to keep doing the things that they did prior to coming to Mitchell Manor. We take trips out of the facility to social events and church. We want a culture of “I can still do!” If we continue to help them make choices to stay active that will become their habit. This is an attitude that we should all have no matter what stage of life.

When you hear that old saying, “You can’t teach a old dog new tricks,” try just opening your mind and try something new. If one is in reasonably good health and makes it to, say, age 65, the statistical probability then to live up to or beyond age 85 is very high. This would be another 20 or 30 years to grow and learn.

Trying new things is a great way to keep our minds moving.

What does trying new things look like?

It might look like this. On one of our out-to-eat trips at Mitchell Manor we had a resident in her upper 80s to mid 90s with us.

We took them to get Chinese. After eating for a bit, she looked up and said, “Can you believe this is my first time having Chinese?”

She had such a big smile on her face as she ate. She thoroughly enjoyed herself.

We know where you’re coming from.

We come from there too. At Mitchell Manor, we are not just associates and residents,, we are neig ghbors,, friends and family. Our compassionate care is deeply rooted in our close knit-community and hometown values.

Visit us today to feel the difference.

812.849.2221

24 Teke Burton Dr. | Mitchell, IN MitchellManorIN.com

Joint Commission accredited 65154

Try New Things

Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

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Hearing Loss and Dementia New research from Johns Hopkins links hearing loss to dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Courtesy Sound Hearing

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ew research from multiple sources, including a study from Johns Hopkins medical, sheds new light on possible consequences of hearing loss.

The American medical association ranks hearing loss as one of the most disabling conditions in the United States, affecting between 25 and 29 million people. Not only does hearing loss separate a person from communication with their family, it can also have devastating effects on

general quality of life.

New research shows that adults with hearing loss are much more likely to develop Alzheimer’s and dementia than adults with normal hearing. And risk escalates as hearing gets worse.

Siemens Signia hearing aids are the world’s only hearing aid system clinically proven by independent research studies to enable adults with hearing loss to hear as well as normal hearing adults, even in hardto-hear places.

‘My mind wasn’t going — my hearing was!’

Courtesy Sound Hearing

That quote is from Dick Crum, or Dr. Dirt as he is known in central Indiana and throughout the Midwest. As a longtime Purdue University horticultural educator and a disseminator of gardening information for 40 years, Crum is central Indiana’s most famous and most loved gardening expert.

He has also worn Siemens hearing aids from Sound Hearing Care for the past few years and has this to say about his experience: “I’ll be honest. I was slow to address my hearing loss, telling myself no one would notice by me. Finally, I realized I was being left out the conversation, or worse yet, I would say inappropriate things, not hearing all of what was being said. For years, I could hear but not understand my family and friends, especially in noisy places. My Siemens hearing aids have solved that problem for me with their ability to handle noise and speech at the same time. I can once again hear what’s going on with my family and friends. I often wonder why I waited so long.”

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Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

Allen Funeral Home: Allen Cares for Pets Too!

Courtesy Allen Funeral Home

Pet Services

Animals are wonderfully agreeable friends. They ask so little of us, and give so much love in return. When it comes time for you to let go of your animal companion, making the decisions on how to care for their physical remains can be heart-wrenching. A private cremation means your pet is placed in the cremation chamber alone. Upon completion of the cremation, your pet’s cremated remains are removed from the chamber and returned to you in an urn of your choice.

Private Cremation

A private cremation means your pet is placed in the cremation chamber alone. Upon completion of the cremation, your pet’s cremated remains are removed from the chamber and returned to you in an urn of your choice.

Viewing Cremation

Many times family members want to be involved in the cremation of their pet. This is just like a private cremation, but your family is present in the viewing room during the cremation. This option is not available at all crematories. Please ask our staff for further information.

Individual Cremation

Here, your pet shares space in the cremation chamber with other pets, but as each pet carries a unique identification tag into the chamber, you will receive only your pet’s cremated remains in the urn of your choice.

Pet Cremations As we’ve progressed through the years with our expanding scope of services, modern and convenient facilities, and our on-site crematory, it was only natural we expand our services and facilities to help families and individuals say goodbye to their pets.

Whether you’ve experienced the death of your companion or are preparing for whatt lies ahead, our caring andd compassionate staff will guide you through thee difficult farewell of your beloved pet. We will provide you with comfort and peace of mind while ensuring your pet is given a loving memorial.

Communal Cremation

In a communal cremation, your pet is cremated along with a number of other pets, and the cremated remains are not separated. No cremated remains are returned to you. It is common practice for these cremated remains to be scattered on private land by one of our staff members.

4155 S. OLD SR 37 812-824-5905 al l enc ares.com Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

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A Getaway That’s Not Far Away!

Courtesy Wasatch Lake

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emember the good ol’ days when life seemed a little simpler — a time when information traveled at a more relaxed pace, and people took the time to really get to know each other? Well,those days are close by at Wasatch Lake. When you discover Wasatch Lake, you’ll stay a few days and leave with a lifetime of memories!

Wasatch Lake is a 300-acre private woodland, open year round and offering seven lakefront and wooded cabins nestled around a 50 acre stocked lake. There’s plenty to do for all ages.

Canoeing: Paddle and observe the lake wildlife.

Biking: 10 miles of marked trails for all rider levels.

Tennis: A private court on property.

Basketball: New basketball goal.

Swimming: Take a dip or float on a raft in the crystal clear lake or play on the sandy beach.

Horseshoes: Outdoor pit at Long House Lodge.

Birdwatching: Hawks, owls, hummingbirds and our own white swans, Sunny and Cher.

Golf: Close by are Clover Meadow (18 hole) and Pine Woods (9 hole) courses.

Amenities include …

Cozy Accommodations

Walking and hiking: 10 miles of marked trails.

Fishing: Stocked lake with bluegill, red ear, largemouth bass, catfish, rainbow trout, and hybrid striped bass.

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Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

Wasatch Lake’s cabins provide all the comforts of home.

Each cabin is unique and the largest cabin sleeps up to eight.

Each cabin is furnished with fresh bed linens, towels and

firewood for use in your indoor fireplace and the outdoor fire pit. Every cabin has air conditioning, electric heat, television with satellite TV, DVD player, and a fully-equipped kitchen with everything you need to make and eat a meal. Each cabin has a full bath with towels, hand soap and toilet paper.

The cabins also include a deck, outdoor charcoal grill and a dock with a boat and personal flotation devices.

Great For Groups

The 9,000-square-foot Long House Lodge overlooks the private lake and is open daily. The Lodge offers activities such as pool, foosball, ping-pong and board games. Relax in one of the high-back chairs overlooking the lake and catch up on some reading. WiFi is also available. The Lodge is also a unique setting for private parties, family reunions, corporate retreats, church gatherings and weddings!

Don’t delay, because we book up quickly.

Wasatch Lake is open year round and rates vary depending on the season. For information and reservations call 317-488-7373 or visit WasatchLake.com. For convenience and guest services, we have on-site property managers Jeff and Dawn, Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 812-986-6374. Stay a few days at Wasatch Lake and it will stay with you for a lifetime.

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Expires 12/31/16

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St. Vincent Dunn Senior Renewal Center Courtesy The Times-Mail

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or seniors, the years following retirement can present a number of challenges and lifestyle changes.

To provide local seniors with the support they need to maintain independence and feel connected to their communities, St. Vincent Dunn is opening its Senior Renewal Center, a new Medicarecovered service located on the St. Vincent Dunn campus, today.

The Senior Renewal Center at St. Vincent Dunn will help seniors navigate changes and life events that take place after retirement.

Visits to the center are covered by Medicare and will include transportation, therapeutic small group discussions and the chance to socialize and eat a meal with other center visitors. Individual counseling and family counseling sessions are also available.

“In retirement years, many unexpected and life-altering events can occur — from the death of a loved one to new health conditions to financial challenges,” said Matt Balla, administrator at St. Vincent Dunn, in a press release. “It’s important that seniors know they are not alone in these experiences and the emotions that accompany these lifestyle changes. The Senior Renewal Center hopes to empower seniors with a sense of community, new strategies for coping and opportunities to celebrate the joyful aspects of aging. We look forward to providing services to help seniors live independently in their homes and communities.”

Seniors currently represent more than 14 percent of the U.S. population, but that number is expected to grow to 21.7 percent by 2040, according to the U.S. Department of

Health and Human Services.

The St. Vincent Dunn Senior Renewal Center welcomes referrals and will conduct an athome assessment to determine frequency of visits (up to three visits per week) and services that will best meet an individual’s health care needs. The center is open Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Staff consists of a medical director, program director, licensed therapist, nurse and tech assistant/driver.

In addition to the new Senior Renewal Center, St. Vincent Dunn provides area residents access to rehabilitation therapy, emergency services, surgery, OB/Gyn, outpatient lab and imaging services. For more information or to schedule a confidential assessment, call the Senior Renewal Center at 812-276-1051. An open house will take place later.

Support for Seniors.

In the Spirit of Caring.

Senior Renewal Center 1600 23rd Street, Bedford, IN 47421 812-276-1051

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Choosing the Right Medicare Plan Medicare Part D Enrollment Oct 15th- Dec 7th!!

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Our Pharmacists have been trained to review Medicare Part D pllans to make sure you are not over-spending on your medications.

Sign up today for your Free review at Panacea,

orr call us at 812-287-8884.

Free Deliverry to Martinsvillle

2424 S Walnut Streett • Bloomington, Bl i t IN 47401 12

Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

By Lester A. Burris, Panacea pharmacy manager

E

very year, Medicare has an open enrollment period from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7. Medicare health and drug plans make changes each year — things like cost, coverage and which providers and pharmacies are in their networks. The open enrollment period is when all people with Medicare can change their Medicare health plans and prescription drug coverage for the following year to better meet their needs.

Changing plans can make a big financial difference as well. Enrolling in the wrong plan, or even just staying in the same plan from the previous year, could end costing those with Medicare several hundred dollars over the course of the year. Most plans will make some changes each year so it is essential to review those changes in order to be in the best plan. People in a Medicare health or prescription drug plan should always review the materials their plans send them, and research other plans to find the best fit. A plan comparison can be done by calling 1-800-MEDICARE or going to medicare.gov.

At Panacea Pharmacy, we offer free plan reviews by a pharmacist.

The results of your review are individualized by inputting your personal medication list and evaluating what the co-pays, premiums, and at what point the coverage gap may be reached in the given year. Plan reviews can be conducted over the phone, in person, or a document with plan details can be emailed to those requesting a free review. Call 812-287-8884 or stop by while shopping in Lucky’s Market.

Panacea Pharmacy is a full-service pharmacy located inside Lucky’s Market at 2424 S Walnut St. In addition to free Medicare Part D plan reviews, we offer compounding, a proactive prescription management approach, convenience packaging and free delivery service. For more information you can visit panaceapharmacyrx.com or call us at 812287-8884.

Give the Gift of Preplanning Courtesy Day & Deremiah-Frye Funeral Home

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e plan for important life events such as college education for our children, a new home, vacations and — hopefully — a good retirement. Doesn’t it also make sense to plan for an event that is

inevitable?

There are many stressful events in life but none more so than the loss of a loved one. And let’s face it, the older we get, the more relevant that statement becomes. But it doesn’t have to be that way with a little planning.

Research indicates most people think making funeral or cremation arrangements in advance makes good sense.

Planning in advance, called “preplanning” or “prearranging,” has many benefits.

Why Preplan?

• • • • • •

people don’t know how or where to start.

At Day & Deremiah-Frye Funeral Home, we can help.

Our professionals will help you start the process of funeral planning by providing you with a complimentary copy of the Dignity Memorial Personal Planning Guide.

The Dignity Memorial Personal Planning Guide is a valuable tool that provides detailed information about making final arrangements and space to record all your important information. For veterans, we also offer a special Veterans’ Planning Guide to help secure available VA burial benefits.

Committed to helping you with compassionate, professional and personal service.

Take responsibility for your arrangements.

Eliminate guesswork for your family.

Personalize your service.

Avoid emotional overspending.

Find the value and quality you want.

Lock in today’s prices.

Preplanning is probably one of the last, most loving gestures one can make for their family while providing peace of mind for the person making their plan. And knowing that a person’s final wishes are honored will bring comfort to family members and other loved ones. But most

ay & eremiiah h- rye Funeral Home

4150 East Third St., Bloomington, IN 47401 • 812.336.6331 • www.DayDeremiahFrye.com Serving families since 1913

Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

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Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

Safe Houses Courtesy Smithville Security

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ome security has grown exponentially each year, evolving from phoned-in alerts to 24/7 connected and continuous monitoring, accessible via your smartphone or tablet. Today, home security solutions even act as a hub for smart devices and the Internet of Things (IOT), designated items such as programmable thermostats and connected appliances.

The advantages of home security are broad and multifaceted. Home security products offer peace of mind as well as convenience, while creating the first step toward connecting all your online devices for home automation.

Why Home Security?

First and foremost, home security protects your home and possessions from damage and theft. Theft protection is the first thing that comes to mind when considering a security system.

With 24/7 continuous monitoring, your home is protected every day, year-round.

When you consider that only 13 percent of reported burglaries are solved by the police, it is wise to take precautions to protect your home and belongings. Homes without displayed security service are 300 percent more likely to be burgled.

Equally important, home security can derail environmentbased issues before they can create larger problems.

Environmental sensors can warn you of water pipe malfunctions or flooding, which is important for homeowners with mobility issues. Connected systems can call the fire department as soon as fire is detected, which significantly lowers damage levels.

Access to your security system when out of town is a crucial requirement for a fully-operational system. Modern security systems communicate with your smartphone or even allow remote video monitoring. Never worry about a door remaining unlocked with remote locking.

• No complex menus or programming • Digital smartphone control for thermostats, video cameras, lights or locks This $99 offer only lasts until Nov. 30, 2016.

The Smithville Advantage

Locally-owned Smithville Security is an authority on home security and serves the southern Indiana area. As the only authorized Lyric dealer in the area, they are experts on home security trends and installations. When you request a service quote or require troubleshooting, you will only welcome local Smithville employees into your home for service, rather than contracted workers other providers use. It is just another way we strive to transform your home into a safe haven.

For a no-obligation home security assessment, call 800-7424084 or visit smithvillesecurity.com.

Protect your home with the latest Honeywell technology, brought to you by Smithville, the only certified Honeywell Lyric dealer in Southern Indiana.

Lyric lets you – Access security settings and monitoring remotely – Regulate thermostat – Access cameras remotely – Activate lights or locks – Activate system by voice

Home Savings

By adding home security and automation to your home, you can lower your energy bills with appropriate environmental monitors such as programmable thermostats and automatic light controls. You can also potentially lower your insurance premiums by alerting your insurance company of your home security plans.

Save the most money on your home security by taking advantage of Smithville Security’s limited-time Lyric promotion.

Smithville Security is proud to present the all-new Honeywell Lyric home security and automation system. Lyric protects your home with 24/7, on-the-go home monitoring.

For only $99, upgrade your security system to the Lyric system which offers: • Hands-free voice command

Call today for a free in-home security assessment.

(800) 742-4084

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smithvillesecurity.com Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

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SilverSneakers and BOOM! Courtesy Healthy Balance Health Club

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Enjoy SilverSneakers at Healthy Balance!

The SilverSneakers® Fitness Program is an innovative e health, exercise an nd wellness prog gram ng older ad dults liive health hy, activ ve life estyle es. helpin et fit, have fun n, make friendss!

Ge Unlock the door to greater indepe endence and a verSnea akers. healthier life with Silv

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Healthy Balance healthybalancewellness.com

812-279-6330 • 1201 5th Street Bedford 16

Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

roper nutrition and physical activity play a critical role as we get older. Millions of older adults are taking stock of their health and hitting the gym to get the physical activity they need to help keep their muscles strong and prevent many health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, colon cancer and high blood pressure. Healthy Balance Health Club has been providing Lawrence County residents with the highest quality exercise and post re-habilitation programming since 2005. We are excited to announce that beginning in November Healthy Balance will expand its programming by being the only club in the Lawrence County to offer BOOM! classes. These 30 minute classes have been specifically designed for people ages 45 to 59.

BOOM MOVE IT combines a great cardio workout with fun, dance-style choreography. This high-energy class will have you dancing to music from many eras and genres. Every class is designed to be challenging but doable by providing modification and progressions based on participant ability.

BOOM MUSCLE is an action-based, functional and strength conditioning class that provides a dynamic workout. MUSCLE focuses on a variety of strength-based training techniques and movement patterns borrowed from popular sports and leisure activities for an action-packed class.

BOOM MIND fuses the best of pilates, yoga and athletic stretching in a way that makes these disciplines accessible to participants of multiple skill levels. Flexibility and posture issues are concerns of baby boomer and older adult participants, so this class specifically focuses on improving overall range of motion and strength, balance, core stability and flexibility.

Healthways SilverSneakers and BOOM fitness programs are fun and an energizing ways to get the activity you need to help you stay healthy and independent. Whether you enjoy walking on the treadmill, riding the stationary bike or taking group exercise classes like those available through the SilverSneakers fitness program, it’s important to keep moving.

Here are some other helpful tips for staying active: • Engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate activity, such as brisk walking, on five or more days a week.

• Include strength training exercises in your regular workouts at least twice a week to improve and maintain muscular strength and endurance.

• If you have difficulty with your mobility, perform moderate amounts of low-impact activities such as swimming, water exercises or stretching.

• Gentle forms of yoga and tai chi help to promote flexibility, improve balance and increase strength.

Make Healthy Balance Health Club your headquarters for fitness and let SilverSneakers help you take charge of your health! Please remember to consult your physician before starting SilverSneakers or any exercise program. Call 812-279-6330 or stop in today! Not a Silver Sneaker?

Check us out anyway you’ll be glad you did! Visit healthybalancewellness. com or like us on Facebook.

Healthy Balance Health Club

Senior Fitness Class meets Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 9 a.m.

Senior Yoga meets Thursdays 10:30 a.m.

BOOM starts Nov. 8 at 4 p.m.

How to Choose the Right Nursing Home Courtesy McCormick’s Creek Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Center

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he decision to move a loved one into a nursing home is often very difficult for families to make. The process can be overwhelming for families but it doesn’t have to be if you take the time to do some research before the need for skilled nursing is urgent.

Visit Several Facilities

Long-term care insurance. Some people buy private long-term care insurance. It can pay part of the costs for a nursing home or other long-term care for the length of time stated in your policy.

This type of insurance is sold by many different companies and benefits vary widely. Look carefully at several policies before making a choice.

Paying For Long-term Care

Here are several resources to aid you as you navigate this process.

• medicaid.gov • medicare.gov/nursinghomecompare • ltcombudsman.org • va.gov

Choosing a skilled nursing center is a personal choice. It is not a one-size-fits-all scenario. There are many options to choose from that offer varied services. Search for a center that provides services that closely match your loved one’s preferences. If possible, be sure the center is close enough so that family, friends and people from their congregation can visit regularly.

You can pay for long-term care in several ways. Here are some examples: Medicare. Requires a qualifying hospital stay and is short-term insurance for skilled nursing care. Medicare coverage depends on each person’s medical need and ranges in coverage from 1 to 100 days. Check with a Medicare specialist for details.

Medicaid. Medicaid is a state/federal program that provides health benefits to some people with low incomes. Contact your county family services department to see if you qualify.

Private pay. Some people pay for long-term care with their own savings for as long as possible. When that is no longer possible, they may apply for help from Medicaid. If you think you may need to apply for Medicaid at some point, make sure the nursing home you’re interested in accepts Medicaid payments.

Not all do.

Resources That Can Help

WE ARE FAMILY SERVING FAMILIES Medicare rated us 4-Star Overall & 5-Star for our Quality measures!

McCORMICK’S CREEK

Rehabilitation & Skilled Nursing Center 812-829-3444 HT-137782-1

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Experience More at Ivy Tech’s Center for Lifelong Learning Courtesy Ivy Tech Center for Lifelong Learning

D

o you enjoy working with your hands? Do you have a desire to learn something new every day?

At the Ivy Tech Center for Lifelong Learning we offer a wide variety of classes to keep your hands engaged and mind enriched all year round. We hold classes at the Ivy Tech John Waldron Arts Center in downtown Bloomington as well as Ivy Tech Community College on the west side. Our reach extends beyond Bloomington, with classes at the StoneGate Arts and Education Center in Bedford, the Orange County Learning Center in Springs Valley, and the rustically beautiful Burton Kimble Farms Educational Center in Orleans. We also partner with local businesses to provide courses at various locations throughout the community.

Discover your inner artist with “From Eye to Easel,” sink your hands into some clay with “Open Door Ceramics,” or grab your needles and enjoy some “Knitting for Beginners.” For something a little more unconventional, craft your own handmade treasures in “Basic Silversmithing and Jewelry Making.” Need a new focus?

Senior rates are available for our photography classes. Are you 18

Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

a music lover? We have classes in folk guitar, ukulele, and occasionally something different, like artisan bamboo flutes. Hungry? We’ll please your palate as you learn an assortment of fantastic flavor possibilities and culinary styles in our cooking classes.

While there are numerous classes to fulfill your artistic needs, if you want to express yourself through writing, you’re in luck! We provide an assortment of writing classes and workshops including fiction, non-fiction, personal memoirs, and more. Our Humanities classes address a number of thoughtprovoking subjects like “Early Christian Church Architecture.” Just looking for a way to relax?

Try our Health, Wealth, and Wellness classes, designed to help relieve stress and rejuvenate your retirement. If your idea of relaxation is appreciating nature, sign up for “Birding Basics.” We even teach calligraphy — perfect for that Christmas card or special note.

Speaking of the holidays, want to give a unique gift this year? Why not give your

friends and family a class that could become a new hobby or lifelong passion? And for those grandkids, we specialize in youth programs ranging from art classes like painting, knitting, ceramics, and music to horseback riding and photography — lifelong learning is a gift that will last!

Whatever you want to learn, however you

ExperienceExperience More GLASS WORK

like to learn, and regardless of where you are in life, the Center for Lifelong Learning can be a part of your lifelong learning.

For a complete list of classes and to sign up, visit us online at ivytech.edu/cll or pick up our catalog in magazine racks around town. You can also inquire about classes and register over the phone at 812-330-4400.

the center for lifelong learning Ivy Tech Continuing Education

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Glass Casting for Beginners

KonMari For a Cause

Let this introductory course be your window into the fascinating and beautiful world of glass art! You will learn about the properties of glass and then cast a plaster mold that you will fill with glass.

3 Wednesdays, 11/9/16-11/30/16 6:00-9:00 PM | $139 Ivy Tech John Waldron Arts Center, 122 S. Walnut St.

Discover the “life changing magic of tidying up” and how it can transform your living space and your life.

2 Saturdays, 12/3/16, 12/10/16 10:00-11:00 AM | $19 Ivy Tech John Waldron Arts Center, 122 S. Walnut St.

COOKING New World Bounty Come help us give thanks for the bounty of foods native to America! New world foods have delighted palates around the world since their discovery, from corn to tomatoes to chocolate.

1 Tuesday, 11/15/16 6:00-8:00 PM | $59 Bloomington Cooking School, 115 N College Ave.

BURTON KIMBLE FARMS Retreat

Series

Still Growing? Or Growing Still?

Dr. Judith Burton will share information and ignite lively discussions about our life challenges, changes and how we approach each day.

1 Wednesday, 11/9/16 12:00 PM-3:00 PM | $59 Burton Kimble Farms Education Center, 2058 E County Road 800 N For more classes, to sign up or request a catalog: www.ivytech.edu/cll | 812-330-4400

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Life with Lyme One Retiree’s Ongoing Battle with Lyme Disease

By Julie Ramey

D

enise Charles was 67 and, for the first time in decades, really enjoying her job at the small town public library in Royal Center, Ind., where she worked as an assistant. A lifelong consumer of books of all kinds, she loved reading and sharing with library patrons her favorite authors and stories.

Denise was a city-girl-turned-farm-wife when her husband brought her to Indiana farm country from a Connecticut suburb in the late 1960s. She found on their new farm the delights of raising four children, the pride of self-sufficiency as her family grew their own food in the huge garden and pastures, and a love of the forests and wildlife in rural northern Indiana.

As the kids grew and moved away, Denise and her husband pared down the farm operation to fewer and fewer hogs and cattle, rabbits and sheep. The couple was well content with a few laying hens and a lazy farm dog. The 2000s found Denise looking forward to joining her husband in retirement, and to planning all the things they would do together: canning tomatoes from the garden, and traveling to visit grandchildren and family on the east coast.

Then, about a year shy of Denise’s planned retirement date, something strange began to happen. Accustomed to staying busy around the house and farm, Denise found herself overwhelmed by unexplained fatigue.

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Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

“I started noticing a lack of energy,” she said. “I was barely able to drag myself home from work and into bed. I knew there was something wrong.”

That’s when Denise’s journey began. Numerous trips to several different medical practitioners resulted in a baffling series of diagnoses, including a sinus infection and a brain tumor. Test after test, procedure after procedure had negative results.

“The final result of all that was, ‘It’s all in my head,’” Denise said grimly. “That’s a direct quote: ‘It’s all in your head. Here are some pain pills. It’s all in your head.’”

Then, in the summer of 2015, she saw a local doctor who “was diagnosing several people that had way-out-there symptoms that didn’t match anything, and who were being told by multiple health care professionals that everything was fine.”

This new doctor ordered some specific blood tests, despite a battery of blood tests Denise had had six months earlier that showed she was in perfect health. These tests revealed the presence of an unexpected and ugly culprit: Lyme disease.

Denise finally had a name for the strange barrage of seemingly unrelated symptoms when, in the summer of 2015, she was diagnosed with both Lyme disease and a secondary, related parasite, Babesia.

“Lyme is an infection of spirochete bacteria, and it can

stopped using the anti-inflammatory naproxen, knowing it’s not good for my liver. But I woke up with a headache this morning, which hasn’t happened since the end of January. I may have to go back to the different medication that worked before.”

Denise said she has recently learned that the effects of Lyme disease are worse for older women. She said she knows Lyme disease has affected her, and that she may have relapses and recurrences of Lyme symptoms for the rest of her life.

“There is brain involvement,” she said. “I don’t know if it’s the Babesia or Lyme, but I am feeling off enough in my head I think there has been some effect.”

Of biggest concern to Denise, however, is that the doctor who first ordered the blood tests that eventually helped diagnose Lyme and Babesia is no longer practicing. She said she needs to find another doctor but, in the meantime, she said she will use the combination of natural supplements and diet to control the symptoms she has found to be so debilitating.

A change in diet has been an integral part of the Lyme disease and Babesia infection battle. Denise said, “I learned it was a matter of diet, to keep these things from liking the environment they are in. If you cut out sugar, gluten, and dairy, you nix the food sources for these critters.” She said she and her husband each lost more than 40 pounds on the new Paleolithic-type diet.

“It’s a hard diet to stick to,” Denise said, “and who really wants to? But it’s the choice between feeling crappy and being able to function. It’s not really a choice.”

To learn more about Lyme disease, Babesia, and other associated bacteria and parasites, talk to your health care professional.

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6 a.m.–10 pm. M–F 7 a.m.–10 p.m. Sa–Su 1700 W. Bloomfield Rd. 812-349-3720 • bloomington.in.gov/TLRC Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

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affect every part of your body,” Denise said, revealing the firsthand knowledge she has gained from fighting the infections over the past year. “Babesia is a parasite of the blood, and it is responsible for anemia, and for destroying red blood cells.”

Lyme disease affects different people in different ways, and in Denise’s case, the burning and pain in her eyes was caused by the Lyme spirochetes that “landed” in her eyeballs and her optic nerves. “It’s conjecture, but these spirochetes go wherever they want in your body,” she said. “They are corkscrew-shaped, and once they find a place in your body they like, they burrow in-into your brain, joints, skin — everywhere.”

The diagnosis should have been a relief, because Denise finally had a name for the thing that forced her early retirement, and kept her from doing every single thing she enjoyed. Instead, it became clear that Lyme and the associated Babesia were indeed going to be tough to get rid of, if they could be gotten rid of at all.

Denise was determined to use every tool in the arsenal to reclaim her life and sense of well-being, so she was willing to try some new things.

Her doctor prescribed antibiotics as well as anti-inflammatory medications, but told her she also needed to give her body additional and much-needed support with “holistic” things”: vitamins, probiotics, and anything else that supports a healthy body, and helps the body do what it is supposed to do.

Denise found herself at Pearl Street Market in Winamac, Ind., talking with owner and registered nurse Betsy Horan, whose first goal was to provide Denise with as much information as she could about Lyme disease and Babesia.

“The more you know, the better decisions you can make,” Horan said. “Lyme disease has not been highly researched. There is no firm protocol on how to deal with it.”

By October 2015, Denise had started both medical and natural protocols, and finally, in January 2016, started to feel better. By the time May rolled around, however, symptoms had started to reappear, especially in her eyes.

“I had been seeing an eye specialist who was having me do eye exercises, but not doing as much with medication,” she said. “I was still not at 100 percent, but things did start getting better and I have to think the natural supplements did a whole lot of that. I can’t say enough about the holistic end of things. It’s not bunk. It’s not voodoo. It works, and if you get someone who knows what they’re doing, it’s just as important as the medical side of things.”

Denise credits her doctor with sending her to the health food store in the first place, and to recognizing the benefits of natural products in overcoming the debilitating symptoms of Lyme disease.

“We only have so many toys in the chest,” Horan said. “Not everyone is alike and we use the natural things that best suit the individual.” She added that she does extensive internet research about Lyme disease and its treatment, and talks with people who visit her store about discerning bad information from good because, she said, “both are out there.”

Although Denise recently made an overnight trip to visit her children in Bloomington, she had not felt well enough to travel very far from home for more than a year.

“Everybody was asking me what I am going to do in retirement, and all I could say was, ‘I don’t know.’ I haven’t felt well enough to make any plans.”

“My concern is where to go from here,” Denise said. “I have nine days left of the parasiticide for Babesia, and I have been using the holistic stuff that attacks Lyme at the same time. I

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Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

Using Home Health to Stay Connected W Courtesy Comfort Keepers

e have all heard the saying that age is just a number and you are only as old as you feel. In some aspects that is true. A study with Harvard Medical School reports there are several ways to fight off cognitive deficiencies and remain mentally young. Mental stimulation, good diet and building your social network are just a few ways to keep your mind young and sharp.

Keeping social connections active is every bit as important to us as caring for our physical wellbeing, but usually one aspect that is overlooked. There can be several reasons that this happens — fear of going out alone, lack of transportation or even just being unaware of what activities are offered in your community.

Comfort Keepers is a local home health agency that strives to take down the barriers and get seniors or those in need out an about. Their goal is to keep people active, safe and comfortable all while remaining at home.

Often people think if they have an agency in their home it is due to an illness or not being to do things on their own.

In fact, it is often the opposite. Having someone to take you places can open many doors. The golden years can be a time full of interesting places to go and things to do. Just because we age or retire doesn’t mean slowing down and stopping your routine. It means you get to redefine what fills your time.

Instead of focusing on a career, you get to focus on doing activities that simply make you happy.

Whether it’s exploring local neighborhoods, visiting a museum, taking part in a health fair, or signing up for a course at a local adult education center, opportunities abound. Local libraries, and parks and recreation centers offer activities both indoors and out. You can take up everything from painting and pottery to hiking, cycling or bird watching. Local Y programs and senior centers like Endwright Center also offer new learning and recreational programs and often include group activities like dances, potluck dinners and bus trips to sites of interest as well.

Volunteering in the community is also a great way for seniors to stay active and involved. Everywhere you look there is need for service. The energy, vibrancy, skills and talents of seniors in our society are valuable and needed. The wisdom and knowledge they have are key ingredients to the success of efforts throughout local neighborhoods —helping feed the hungry, tutoring students struggling with reading or math, working in a local hospital or helping to house the homeless.

Local civic, arts and cultural organizations would also relish the contribution you could make. Area 10 Agency on Aging is a wealth of information for volunteering opportunities. They can be contacted at 812-876-3383.

Focusing on community involvement and engaging the senior in both a physical and mental way is how Comfort Keepers stands apart from other agencies. Comfort Keepers is a locally owned and operated home health company that specializes in catering to their clients by providing custom service plans to meet individuals’ needs. For more information on Comfort Keepers and the services they provide please call Stacey at 812-822-0145.

In-Home Care Services Care — Beyond Compare!

• Companion Care • Alzheimer’s Care • Light Housekkeeping • Peersonal Care

Comfort Keepers

(812) 822-0145 • ComfortKeepers.com 101 E. Third St. • Bloomington

®

Voted #1 in Home Health by The Herald Times five years in a row.

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See Me, A Not Just My Dementia

By Jan Bays, Jill’s House

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Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

ccording to the Alzheimer’s Association, in 2016 over 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease — and Alzheimer’s disease accounts for only 53 percent of those living with dementia. While a cure for the many causes of dementia is important, we must also focus on supporting those living with dementia, and their care partners, now.

According to Tom Chitwood, the father of person-centered dementia care, the experience of dementia is an interplay between neurological impairment and the way people respond to the person living with dementia.

Claudia Allen’s OTR Cognitive Disability Model explains that action is the result of what a person can do, will do and may do. “Can Do” is the person’s cognitive and physical ability. “Will Do” adds in motivation. “May Do” is what the environment allows. A person must first have the ability to complete a task. Then, he or she must WANT to do it. And finally, the environment must support completing the task — e.g. I may be an accomplished pilot, but if I do not have an airplane, I will not be taking flight!

So, how can these theories guide us in supporting people living with dementia?

By knowing the person, rather than focusing on the dementia, we can provide just the right support. Dementia is not a disease but an umbrella term that encompasses cognitive loss of many causes. Each person’s journey through dementia is individual. It is only by knowing each individual that care partners can provide the right assistance to help that person thrive.

To best illustrate, let’s turn to the real experts: people living with dementia.

Richard Taylor, in the video “Be With Me Today,” said, “People with dementia are whole people and should be treated as whole people … I am not half empty. I am not half full. I am not declining. I am a person. I may be a different person than I was yesterday, but I‘m still a person.”

Laura Bowley said in her Mindset Memory blog in April, “If you don’t see ‘me,’ you see the dementia instead, and when you see the dementia, the ‘me’ … becomes an ‘it.’ You’re seeing a disease rather than a person.”

In 2005 the Eden Alternative, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives of elders and their care partners, brought together a group of experts in transformational care to develop measures of quality of life. They identified seven domains of wellbeing. These domains apply to everybody — and they are not dependent on one’s abilities.

In his 2014 book “Dementia Beyond Disease,” G. Allen Power arranged these seven domains of wellbeing into this ascending order: identity, connectedness, security, autonomy, meaning, growth, and joy. The sequence is important. The ability to experience success in each domain is dependent on fulfillment of the preceding domains.

Note that “identity” comes first. The first step is being “known.” This requires that a relationship be in place. Then one can be connected — to care partners, family, community.

It is from that “being known” and connectedness that security comes. Once a person feels secure — and is known, so the right opportunities are presented — he or she can feel

comfortable making choices. Making choices — especially about things that have meaning — gives purpose to life and opens up the ability to give as well as receive … which leads to growth and joy.

This is the philosophy practiced at Jill’s House. By developing relationships and working with each other in a partnership, we strive to fill each day with meaning and joy.

A better way

Helping people continue to lead a meaningful life.

Jill’s

House

Assisted Living with Memory Care

JillsHouseMemoryCare.com • 812-287-7962 751 E. Tamarack Trail, Bloomington, Indiana

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The Benefits of Water Exercise Courtesy Monroe County YMCA

D

espite the proven benefits of physical activity, more than 60 percent of American adults do not engage in regular physical exercise and 25 percent are not active at all.

The water environment may be the key to get older adults up, moving and enjoying exercise!

For many older adults, the water is an ideal medium to begin an exercise program, return to exercise or to complement a land-based routine. The water is a supportive environment that decreases the pressure on the joints, stimulates blood flow and can increase muscle length and relaxation. All this translates to more comfort and ease in the body, allowing for greater range of motion than experienced on land. Increases in range of motion and muscle balance help support better mobility both in the water and on land. This in turn results in higher function in our Activities of Daily Living (ADL).

One of the highlights that the Monroe County YMCA offers is state of the art pools with an open-design concept to allow people to lap swim, work and play independently in the water or participate in one of our quality aquatic exercise programs.

We offer numerous options for aquatic fitness at our two facilities, including shallow water exercise, deep water exercise, aqua-fit light and easy, aqua boot camp, aqua strength and conditioning, and deep water running. The focus of these classes is promoting cardiovascular fitness as well as increased strength and conditioning. Our instructors are trained through the AEA (Aquatic Exercise Association) and bring the best there is to offer in aquatic fitness to our participants.

We have a strong Arthritis Aquatics program that is run in partnership with the Arthritis Foundation, which certifies all our

instructors. We offer Arthritis Aquatics Basic class, which puts all the joints of the body, both large and small, through gentle range of motion exercises. Our Arthritis Aquatics Plus class focuses on the same range of motion exercises in the Basic class but adds a cardio component. Our Deep Water Arthritis class is range of motion work in a suspended position using a buoyancy belt.

We invite you to visit our pools at our southeast and northwest facilities and check out all the water exercise options to get your commitment to health and wellness on its way! For more programming information, contact Gayle Ebel, adult wellness director, at 812-961-2171 or gebel@ monrecountyymca.org.

CHANGE YOUR BODY CHANGE YOUR MIND CHANGE YOUR LIFE

Healthy living happens at the YMCA. Join us and discover what we have for you!

Find out more: MonroeCountyYMCA.org

Northwest YMCA

Southeast YMCA

1375 N. Wellness Way Bloomington, IN 47404

2125 S. Highland Avenue Bloomington, IN 47401 HT-122777-1

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Aging in Place A Courtesy Bedford Winnelson

2705 Mitchell Rd, Bedford, IN 47421 812-275-5199 • 800-264-5199 28

Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

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Stylish designs with your safety and comfort in mind.

ging in place is the ability to safely and independently remain in one’s home as they grow older. According to the AARP, 87 percent of Americans want to remain in their own homes. With some modifications, it is possible to do that.

Falling is one of the greatest risks faced by the growing population of older adults who are choosing to age in place. Falls are the leading cause of serious injury and loss of independence among the elderly. With simple modifications to your home, you can greatly reduce the risk of injury as a result of falling.

Assist bars are now available in attractive and unobtrusive designs, and are one of the easiest ways to make your home safer. Today’s assist bars are designed to complement your home’s décor, and many adults are incorporating them into their homes during the course of routine home upgrades and remodeling projects.

Other changes to help you age in place include comfort height toilets and curbless showers with seats. Handles on faucets, instead of knobs, will help seniors who have issues with gripping.

It is recommended that you start implementing universal aging in place features in your home before the need arises.

During the course of routine home updates is the best time to plan for your future in your home.

The Right Caregiver is a Treasure Courtesy Elder Care Connections

bond with her.

“My day-to-day, week-to-week, living is much more enjoyable by having Sherry here. We have a good time and share the same sense of humor,” says Carol. “She is a caring person, inside and out. The days on which she comes are bright days.”

“She helps me with the animals, and gets things done around the house that otherwise I just wouldn’t get done. All the little things. She is a handy person and she likes doing it. She does whatever needs to be done — and even anticipates things that I don’t realize need to be done.”

“When my husband died, I had to take on a lot that I didn’t have to before. She helps with those things. On days when I can’t function as well, I like knowing that Sherry will be here to go do the shopping for me, bring the groceries in and break down any boxes.”

There was a time when Carol broke her ankle. Sherry was able to step in and help Carol more as she healed, which proved invaluable to Carol’s sense of wellbeing.

Many clients start off using Elder Care services a few hours a week for light housekeeping and help with errands or chores they may need. We work hard to provide a great caregiver match, like Carol and Sherry who bonded instantly over their love of animals. With caregiver help, Carol will be able to stay in her beloved home in the woods for years to come.

Elder Care Connections is locally owned and operated, and has been helping seniors stay in their homes and maintain independence for twenty years. For more information about how our caregivers can help improve your quality of life, please contact Elder Care Connections at 812-330-3771.

E

Locally owned and operated

lder Care

Connections, Inc.

Senior Home Care Personal & Attendant Care Homemaking Companion Services Memory Care

Providing caring assistance for elders and their families for 20 years.

301-330-3771

www.eldercc.net Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

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“H

aving a caregiver is one of the best things that has happened to me,” says vibrant senior Carol Bart who has been with Elder Care Connections for three years. She has had the same caregiver, Sherry Clark, the whole time and has formed a very close

Senior A Transitions Planning Your Move and Downsizing Project Courtesy Estate and Downsizing Specialists

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Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

ll of us will downsize sooner or later. Seniors and retirees often want less upkeep and responsibility managing their homes. Life events may trigger this decision too. Some will move to a smaller home, some a condo and some to senior communities. Regardless of the choice, this involves a move to a smaller residence. Circumstances may differ from client to client, but the basic function of downsizing is to eliminate things you don’t need or have room for. This sounds simple enough until you realize the difficulties of making these decisions.

We commonly hear a series of questions from our clients.

What will fit in my new home? Do my children or family want any of the items I can’t take? Will I donate or sell the items left over when all the decisions are made? What do I do with the lawn and auto chemicals in the garage? Who will move me into my new home? Who can help with cleaning and preparing my home for sale? What will I do with all of the things that need disposed of or sold? How do I know what my personal property is worth? Add into the equation the enormous amount of physical work required, and you begin to understand the daunting task of a major downsizing event.

From the initial decision through the entire project, planning may be the most important step in the process. Finding a

• • • • • •

Estate tag sale Live auction Online auction Gift donation Gift to family or friends Sale to an individual

The following outline was designed to assist you in making this a manageable task.

SCHEDULE YOUR MOVE

• Establish your timeline first.

• Establish where you will be moving to, and how much room you will have.

• Check with your realtor or property manager. Get a floor plan for your new home.

• Use the floor plan to measure furniture to see what will fit.

• Set a firm date with your mover. This step will be critical for you to plan.

DO AN INVENTORY OF YOUR PROPERTY

• This establishes what personal property you have.

• If you are gifting or selling personal property you may want a professional appraisal.

• This information gives you a roadmap to build a plan of what goes where and to whom.

• This report provides you a list of property to make sure everything is accounted for.

• Values are established, providing a guide for insurance should you incur any loss.

• Make a solid plan for pick-up or transportation of donations.

MAKE DECISIONS ON WHAT SELLS AND HOW

• Decide on what items to sell as you go through the process and mark them clearly.

• Talk with a professional about selling options and suggestions.

• Establish a game plan to sell based on your timelines and circumstance.

• Will items have to be moved? Is a professional tag sale possible? Do items require special online marketing or special consignment?

• Establish realistic expectations based on your appraisal values.

PACK AND MOVE

• Packing for your move should be done professionally. If you are packing yourself, make sure your movers are aware of this. Most movers will not pay damage claims for loss or damage if they don’t professionally pack your belongings.

• Talk to your movers about the details of pick-up and delivery.

• Make sure you have clear timelines on both ends.

• Make arrangements to have clear access to entryways and drives.

• On the delivery end, have a plan for set up of necessities for the first night in your new home — like beds, lighting, etc.

• Prepare a carry bag for emergency items like toiletries, water and snacks, in case everything doesn’t get unpacked.

FINAL CLEAN-UP AND HOME PREP FOR SALE

• Establish what needs done to prepare your home for sale.

• Based on those suggestions, establish a plan of completion for this final preparation.

• Schedule contractors appropriately if painting or other maintenance needs to be done.

• Make arrangements for trash and debris removal.

• Schedule a final deep cleaning of the home, including carpets and deodorizing.

• Make sure exterior trash and lawn waste are included in the final removal process.

• Make arrangements for exterior lawn maintenance until your home is sold.

• Establish a schedule or caretaker to visit once a month until the home is sold.

If you use this outline and have a solid plan, your move and downsizing event can be done cost effectively and in a timely manner.

DECIDE WHAT YOU WILL KEEP

• Use labels to mark items: MOVE, SELL, FAMILY, DONATE, etc.

• Start in any room in your home and begin marking items.

• Always try to be deliberate and finish a room completely before moving on.

• Don’t worry about marking items to be disposed of.

MAKE DECISIONS ON GIFTS AND DONATIONS

• Specific gifts may need appraisals and documentation to qualify for IRS tax deductions.

• When shipping gifts, have good addresses and make shipping arrangements.

• For clothing, household goods and donations make sure you name the charity of choice.

ARE YOU MOVING, DOWNSIZING OR DEALING WITH AN ESTATE?

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: • • • • • •

Senior Moves General Assistance Clean Outs Property Prep Final Clean Real Estate Sales

• • • • • •

Estate Tag Sale On-Line Auctions Live Auctions Appraisals Buyouts Free Market Analysis

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company that provides all the services you need is a critical step.

Companies that specialize in the process will be able to answer all of your questions and give you peace of mind. A successful move has many steps to completion — planning, sorting and packing, making tough decisions on what to keep, prepping for the move, the move itself, establishing what to do with items you can’t take, cleaning and prepping your home, and finally listing and selling your home.

One of the steps to completion is what you will do with the treasures and leftovers you won’t have room for. For some, this will be just a few items. For others, it may be a lifetime of memories and treasures. The decision to part with items may be emotional. Be prepared to make hard decisions. Always keep in mind that your items are going to good homes and good uses, often to people who need them and will love them as much as you did. This may make these decisions a bit easier for you. Try to see it as a way of paying forward that, in some instances, you may get paid for. Below are some of the options you might consider:

IF YOU NEED ADVICE OR ASSISTANCE ON YOUR

DOWNSIZING OR ESTATE PROJECT CALL US TODAY!

PHONE 812-822-2508 OR EMAIL EDSINDIANA@GMAIL.COM Free consultation appointment!

Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

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Flu Shot 101: What Seniors Should Know

Facts and myths about flu shots, older adults and this potentially deadly virus

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Courtesy Meadowood

T

he influenza virus, more commonly known as the flu, is responsible for seasonal illnesses in people of all ages every year. During flu season, taking necessary steps to stay healthy can sometimes mean the difference between life and death.

There seems to be no shortage of misinformation and bad advice, however, when it comes to dealing with the flu. It is a good example of how medical myths can get in the way of good medical care.

Fact: Seniors are More Susceptible to the Flu

For people 65 years and older, there is a greater risk of serious complications from the flu because our immune systems become weaker with age. While the severity of the illness can vary each flu season, in most cases, older people bear the greatest burden.

The Centers For Disease Control reports that while anyone, at any age, can become sick with the flu, seniors aged 65 years and older ”are among those groups of people who are at high risk of serious flu complications, possibly requiring hospitalization and sometimes resulting in death.”

Myth: The Flu Shot Can’t Prevent the Flu

In recent years, seniors accounted for between 80 and 90 percent of seasonal flu-related deaths and between 50 and 70 percent of seasonal flu-related hospitalizations. Many people seem to think that because there are so many different strains of the flu virus, the flu shot will not prevent you from getting sick.

Each year, however, flu vaccines are updated to keep up with changing viruses. While it’s true that the virus does mutate each year, it is also true that getting vaccinated every year is important. The flu vaccine will help ensure you have immunity against the strains most likely to cause an outbreak.

eat. Though you may have no appetite, starving yourself will accomplish little since poor nutrition will not help you get better.

Hot liquids can soothe a sore throat and provide much needed fluids at the same time.

Fact: Getting Vaccinated is the Safe Choice

Flu can be a serious illness, particularly among young children, older adults, and people with certain chronic health conditions, including asthma, heart disease or diabetes. Any flu infection can carry a risk of serious complications, hospitalization or death, even among otherwise healthy children and adults. Therefore, getting vaccinated is a safer choice than risking illness to obtain immune protection.

It’s true that the flu vaccination is routinely recommended for people who have a chronic illness. But anyone — even healthy people — can benefit from being vaccinated. Current guidelines suggest that children ages 6 months to 19 years old, pregnant women, and anyone over age 49 be vaccinated each year. In addition, the flu shot is recommended for healthy people who might spread the virus to others who are particularly vulnerable.

For this reason, healthcare workers and caregivers are routinely advised to get the flu vaccine.

Stay Healthy This Winter

For additional tips on caregiving, aging and senior living in Indiana, subscribe to fivestarseniorliving.com/communities/ in/blog/indiana-blog. You’ll be able to have weekly or monthly updates delivered straight to your inbox, depending on your personal preference.

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Live as young as you feel

Fact: Medicare Covers the Cost of Your Flu Shot

Medicare began covering annual influenza immunizations in 1993 for all Medicare beneficiaries. Medicare covers both the costs of the vaccine and its administration by recognized providers. There is no co-insurance or co-payment applied to this benefit, and a beneficiary does not have to meet his or her deductible to receive the vaccine.

Myth: The Flu Vaccine Will Make You Sick

There is a school of thought that the shot can actually cause you to get the flu, but this is false. A flu shot cannot cause flu illness. Flu vaccines given with a needle are currently made in two ways: • The vaccine is made either with flu vaccine viruses that have been ‘inactivated’ and are therefore not infectious, or: • The vaccine is actually made with no flu vaccine viruses at all, which is the case for recombinant influenza vaccine.

People who get sick after receiving a flu vaccination were going to get sick anyway. It takes a week or two to get protection from the vaccine. But people assume that because they got sick after getting the vaccine, the shot caused their illness.

Myth: Feed a Cold, Starve a Fever

If you have the flu, or even just a cold, and are feeling feverish, halting your intake of food and drink can actually do more harm than good. Your body actually requires more fluids when you have a fever.

There’s little reason to increase or decrease how much you

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INDEPENDENT LIVING • RESPITE STAYS SKILLED NURSING & REHAB Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

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Resource Guide The organizations, programs and services in this guide change continually during the year.

The purpose of this directory is to provide a starting point in your search for information.

Always refer to your local Area Agency on Aging for a complete listing of services for your area.

Area Agencies on Aging

Indiana Area Agencies on Aging offer advocacy, planning, services and funding that make a difference in the lives of older adults­—from the frail older person who is able to remain at home if they receive the right services to those who are healthy and can benefit from activities and socialization provided by community-based programs. Contact the Area agency in your county for more information.

Area 8-CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions Morgan County 800-432-2422 www.cicoa.org Area 10-Agency on Aging Monroe & Owen Counties 800-844-1010 www.area10agency.org

Bereavement Counseling

These organizations or agencies offer group education, counseling or support group meetings for persons who have experienced the death of a loved one. Services are usually provided at no cost.

Centerstone Bedford 1315 Hillcrest Rd. Bedford, IN 47421 812-279-3591 Bloomington 645 S. Rogers St. Bloomington, IN 47403 812-339-1691 Martinsville 1175 W. Southview Dr. Martinsville, IN 46151 765-343-6950

Area 11-Thrive Alliance Brown County 812-372-6918 www.thrive-alliance.org

Mooresville 11370 North SR 67 Mooresville, IN 46158 765-342-6616

Area 13-Generations Greene County 800-742-9002 www.generationsnetwork.org

Nashville 91 West Mound St. Nashville, IN 47448 812-988-2258

Area 15-Hoosier Uplands Lawrence, Orange & Washington Counties 800-333-2451 www.hoosieruplands.org

Spencer 272 North US Hwy 231 Spencer, IN 47460 812-585-3775

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Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

Ability Services ADA-Indiana 2853 E. 10th St. Bloomington, IN 47408 812-855-6508 Indiana Institute on Disabilities 1905 N. Range Rd. Bloomington, IN 47408 812-855-6508 Southern Indiana Center for Independent Living (SICIL) 1490 W. Main St. Mitchell, IN 47446 812-277-9626

Library Services

Some libraries have programs that deliver reading and audio-visual materials to the homebound. Classes and personal enrichment programs may be available as well as volunteer opportunities.

Brown County Brown County Public Library 205 Locust Ln. Nashville, IN 47448 812-988-2850

Mitchell Community Public Library 804 Main St. Mitchell, IN 47446 812-849-2412 Monroe County Ellettsville Branch 600 W. Temperance St. Ellettsville, IN 47429 812-876-1272 Monroe County Public Library 303 E. Kirkwood Ave. Bloomington, IN 47408 812-349-3050 Morgan County Brooklyn Branch 6 East Mill St. Brooklyn, IN 46111 317-834-2003 Eminence Branch Eminence Lions Club 11604 Walters Rd. Eminence, IN 46125 765-528-2117 Main BranchMartinsville 110 S. Jefferson St. Martinsville, IN 46151 765-342-3451

Lawrence County

Monrovia Branch 145 S. Chestnut St. Monrovia, IN 46157 317-996-4307

Bedford Public Library 1323 K St. Bedford, IN 47421 812-275-4471

Morgantown Branch 39 W. Washington St. Morgantown, IN 46160 812-597-0889

Waverly Branch 9410 State Rd. 144 Waverly, IN 46151 317-422-9915 Owen County Owen County Public Library 10 S. Montgomery St. Spencer, IN 47460 812-829-3392

Meals on Wheels Lawrence County Hoosier Uplands/Area 15 Agency on Aging 521 W. Main St. Mitchell, IN 47446 812-849-4457 Monroe County Area 10 Agency on Aging 631 W. Edgewood Dr. Ellettsville, IN 47429 812-876-3383 Bloomington Meals on Wheels 727 W. First St. Bloomington, IN 47402 812-355-8224

Senior Centers

Senior centers are a place for seniors to gather to socialize, share a meal and get involved in a wide variety of activities.

Many centers offer card games, music, bingo, exercise, church services, day trips, etc. Be sure to call the site nearest you for details about programs and hours.

Lawrence County Bedford Senior Citizens Center 2205 Washington Ave. Bedford, IN 47421 812-279-5473 Mitchell Senior Citizens Center 101 Tom Green Dr. Mitchell, IN 47446 812-849-2024

Creating Meaningful Moments for those affected by Alzheimer’s.

Monroe County Area 10 Agency on Aging 631 W. Edgewood Dr. Ellettsville, IN 47429 812-876-3383

Morgan County

Unionville Senior Citizen Center 7616 E. St. Rd. 45 Unionville, IN 47468 812-339-2008

Coordinated Aging Services PO Box 1373 Martinsville, IN 46151 765-342-3007 (Martinsville only)

Bloomington Parks & Recreation Twin Lakes Recreation Center 1700 W. Bloomfield Rd. Bloomington, IN 47403 812-349-3720

Owen County

Morgan County

Area 10 Agency on Aging 631 W. Edgewood Dr. Ellettsville, IN 47429 812-876-3383

Martinsville Area Senior Center 1369 N. Blue Bluff Rd. Martinsville, IN 46151 765-342-5525 Mooresville Senior Center 4305 E. St. Rd. 144, PO Box 343 Mooresville, IN 46158 317-831-7510

Our exclusive Meaningful MomentsÂŽ program is specifically designed to help meet the needs of those residents living with dementia. The program focuses on honoring the individual life story and legacy of each resident.

The result is a familiar atmosphere for your loved one.

Call 812.335.4655 To learn more or to arrange a personalized tour.

A Tradition of Caring Together

3203 Moores Pike Rd., Bloomington, IN 47401 812.335.4655 | jeaseniorliving.com HT-130356-1

Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

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Transportation

Monroe County

Lawrence County

IU Health Bloomington Hospital Assisted Medical Transport Station 630 S. Patterson Dr. Bloomington, IN 47403 812-353-9232

Lawrence County Cancer Patient Services 219 Sycamore Drive Bedford, IN 47421 812-275-1441 Mitchell City Bus 812-849-2151

Bloomington Transit 130 W. Grimes Ln. Bloomington, IN 47403 812-336-7433

Older American Services Corp Orleans, IN 812-865-3352

Area 10 Agency on Aging 812-277-9615 RT Dispatch: Lawrence County

Orange County Transit Services 986 W. Hospital Rd. Paoli, IN 47454 812-723-4043

812-876-1079 RT Dispatch: Monroe County

Rural Transit Serves Lawrence County 812-277-9615

New Freedom Transportation Voucher Program Senior Ride Program 812-855-2191

TASC-Bedford City Bus Call from 8am-4pm 812-275-1633

Lawrence County Veterans’ Affairs Office 916 15th St., Room 8 Bedford, IN 47421 812-275-6411

Immediately!

Starting at $72/day

VA Benefits Apply. Includes s 24 hour staff assistance, housekeeping and three home-cooked meals a day in a private and safe facility

Monroe County Veterans’ Affairs Office 214 W. 7th St., Room 100 Bloomington, IN 47404 812-349-2568

At Home Care

HT-122819-1

Licensed Personal Serv rvice Agency Providing g Non-medical personal care in the home.

Phone: 812-636-3000 • w ww ww.parkv ww kview-village.org rg 36

Senior Resource Guide Fall 2016

American Red Cross of Morgan County Martinsville 765-342-2705

The Veterans’ Affairs Regional Office provides a variety of services and benefits to honorably discharged veterans of the US military and their dependents.

Apartments Open

800 S. West Street, Odon, IN 47562

Morgan County

Veteran/Military Information

Assisted Living

2 bedroom furnished duplexes. ry, Duplex includes appliances, laundry walk-in shower and full kitchen.

Call for availability.

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #604 Call for transportation to Indianapolis VA Hospital 812-332-4684

Coordinated Aging Services for Morgan County Morgan County-CONNECT Provide transportation for Seniors in Morgan County only. Age 60+ No charge. Provide public transportation for anyone for a fee.

Call for rates. 765-352-2182 or 765-352-2182

812-829-6066 RT Dispatch: Owen County

Independent Cottage Duplex Now Available

American Cancer Society, Southwest Indiana Area Service Center Road to Recovery Program 812-475-9244

Morgan County Veterans’ Service Office 3455 Willowbrook Dr. Martinsville, IN 46151 317-226-5412 Owen County Veterans’ Affairs Office 157 W. Washington St. Armory Building Spencer, IN 47460 812-829-5027

Volunteer Development

Many organizations welcome older volunteers. Seniors who volunteer find purpose in their day to day and a sense of accomplishment. Volunteering promotes better health both mentally and physically.

Check out these opportunities in your area.

Lawrence County Hoosier Uplands/Area 15 Agency on Aging 521 W. Main St. Mitchell, IN 47446 812-849-4457 Monroe County Area 10 Agency on Aging Caring Companions 812-876-3383 x554 Area 10 Agency on Aging RSVP 55+ 812-876-3383 x523 City of Bloomington Volunteer Network 812-349-3483 Morgan County CICOA Aging & In-Home Solutions Volunteer Services 317-803-6003 Owen County Area 10 Agency on Aging Caring Companions 812-876-3383 x554 Area 10 Agency on Aging RSVP 55+ 812-876-3383 x523

Indiana

HOME REPAIR AND MAINTENANCE CONNECT2HELP 2-1-1 The national abbreviated dialing code for fREE access to health and human services information and referral is 2-1-1.

The 2-1-1 number, easy to remember and universally recognizable, connects individuals and families in need with community-based organizations and government agencies. Free and confidential help is available for many needs, including housing, employment, legal aid and counseling.

PARK PASS FOR SENIORS Individuals who are age 65 and older or individuals younger than age 65 who receive Social Security Disability benefits may purchase the Golden Hoosier Passport at a 50-percent discount. Show the passport for admission to any state park. For more information visit in.gov/dnr or call the Indiana Department of Natural Resources State Park and Reservoir Division at 317-232-4200.

The USDA Rural Development Office has a Very Low-Income Housing Repair program that provides loans and grants to homeowners age 62 and over to repair, improve or modernize their dwellings or to remove health and safety hazards (including accessibility). For more details visit rurdev.usda.gov.

SERVICE ANIMALS Service and therapy animals are skilled to work with people with physical or developmental disabilities. Their mission is to improve quality of life all while developing caring relationships. If a service animal is not needed but the family member is able to care for a pet, they can provide needed companionship and comfort. Indiana Canine Assistant Network (ICAN) trains skilled service dogs for people in Indiana with needs. They can be reached at 317-250-6450, or icandog.org.

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