LIVING 50 PLUS 2020_02_14

Out & About

8 tips for senior travelers

Foods for the Over-50 Crowd Healthy eating options as you age

Confronting Alzheimer’s How to help loved ones handle sundowning a blank slate media special section • february 14, 2020

28 Living 50 Plus • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 14, 2020

Healthy eating options for seniors

“L

et food be thy medicine” is a quote attributed to Hippocrates, the ancient scholar considered to be the father of modern medicine. The saying relates to the notion that what people put in their bodies can heal and/or prevent certain conditions.

For seniors with medicine cabinets full of overthe-counter and prescription medications, the idea of relying predominantly on food to promote optimal health may be tempting, and various foods can be particularly useful to the 50-and-over demographic.

According to the World Health Organization, poor diet is a major contributor to many of the diseases that affect older people. Poor diet has been connected to the development of diabetes, and degenerative diseases such as osteoporosis also may be linked to the foods ones eat. The National Council for Aging Care says micronutrient deficiency is often a problem among the aging due to factors like lack of variety in diet and reduced food intake. Eating a variety of foods can provide all of the nutrients people need to stay healthy as they get older. Certain foods may be particularly helpful.

Brain-friendly foods: Foods such as avocado, leafy vegetables, sunflower seeds, blueberries, and salmon are good sources of vitamin E, antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients that may help ward off dementias like Alzheimer’s disease, advises Sonas Home Health Care.

Anti-inflammatory foods: Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids may help prevent inflammation that can cause cancer and rheumatoid arthritis. Aging.com says foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon, should be consumed at least twice per week.

Fruits and vegetables: Fresh, canned or frozen produce tend to be high in micronutrients, including a variety of

important vitamins that are essential for all components of health. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics advises eating dark green vegetables, such as leafy greens or broccoli, and orange vegetables, such as carrots and sweet potatoes.

Energy-boosters: Choose whole grains that can provide sustained energy by way of healthy carbohydrates over processed grains.

Bone-friendly foods: Calcium-rich foods, such as milk, yogurt and cheese, can prevent calcium from being leached from the bones, which contributes to conditions like osteoporosis.

Digestive system-friendly foods: The digestive system slows down as the body ages, as the walls of the gastrointestinal tract thicken and digestive contractions that push waste along may slow down and become fewer. Foods rich in fiber can promote proper digestion by moving food through the digestive tract mor easily. High-fiber foods also may help naturally reduce blood cholesterol levels.

High-iron foods: Without enough iron in the body, a person may feel tired and lethargic from a reduced production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood from the lungs to the rest of the body. A lack of oxygen in body tissues from anemia can be serious, says the National Council for Aging Care. Tofu, spinach, lentils, pumpkin seeds, and fortified breads and cereals are high in iron.

Smart food choices can help seniors live long andhealthy lives.

Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 14, 2020 • Living 50 Plus

29

How to help loved ones handle sundowning

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diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease can catch families off guard. When such a diagnosis is made, patients and their families typically have a host of questions, including how far the disease has progressed and what to expect as it advances.

One potential side effect of Alzheimer’s disease that can catch families off guard is sundowning. The National Institute on Aging notes that sundowning refers to the restlessness, agitation, irritability, or confusion that can begin or worsen as daylight begins to fade. Sundowning is difficult for Alzheimer’s sufferers, but also can be especially hard on their caregivers. As day turns to night, people serving as caregivers to Alzheimer’s patients tend to wear down, only to suddenly realize that the people they’re caring for are becoming increasingly difficult to handle. The NIA notes that sundowning can continue well into the night, compromising patients’ ability to fall asleep and stay in bed.

Sundowning will not affect every Alzheimer’s patient, but caregivers should prepare themselves to handle such a situation should it arise. Learning more about sundowning can be part of that preparation.

Why does sundowning occur?

The exact cause of sundowning, which is sometimes referred to as “late-day confusion,” is unknown. However, the Mayo Clinic notes that certain factors may aggravate the feelings of confusion felt by Alzheimer’s patients who experience sundowning. Those factors include: • fatigue • low lighting • increased shadows • disruption of the body’s internal clock • the presence of an infection, such as a urinary tract infection The NIA notes that one theory suggests Alzheimer’s-related changes in the brain can disrupt a person’s internal clock, confusing their sleep-wake cycles as a result. That can confuse Alzheimer’s patients and contribute to the feelings of agitation and irritability that are common among people who experience sundowning.

What can be done to combat sundowning?

The NIA recommends looking for signs of sundowning in late afternoon and early evening and trying to determine what might be causing these behaviors. Try

Is Downsizing Right for You? If you’re thinking of Downsizing and Relocating, consider the following questions as to where you are now and the lifestyle you would like to have.

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to avoid anything that appears to trigger these behaviors, if possible.

Reducing noise, clutter or the number of people in the room when sundowning symptoms typically appear may help reduce the confusion Alzheimer’s patients feel during this time of the day.

In addition, scheduling a favorite activity or providing a favorite snack at this time of day can give Alzheimer’s patients something to focus on, potentially cutting off the confusion before it surfaces.

The NIA also recommends making early evening a quiet time of day reserved for playing soothing music, reading or

going for a walk. Caregivers who also have children to look after can explain the importance of this quiet time to youngsters and ask for their cooperation.

Closing curtains or blinds and turning on the lights at dusk can minimize shadows in the house, potentially making this time of day less confusing for Alzheimer’s sufferers.

Sundowning is a symptom of Alzheimer’s disease that can be difficult for caregivers to manage. More information about sundowning is available at www.nia.nih. gov.

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ew demographics have the free time and the financial capacity to travel as much as retirees. Now that children have flown the coop and retirement papers have been filed, the world is many seniorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; oyster.

According to a 2017 survey from AARP, travel is a top goal for more than 80 percent of Baby Boomers. Children may find that encouraging their aging parents to travel can promote more independence and help them live fulfilling lives in retirement.

These tips can make travel easier for any senior ready to see the world.

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1. Seek the most direct route.

Traveling may be a bit easier to endure when the route is as short and direct as possible. It may cost a little more to book nonstop flights or travel during peak hours, but that investment may be worth it.

2. Choose senior-friendly travel services. Working with a trusted travel advisor is often easier than booking your travel yourself. Travel agents often have inside information and may be privy to perks and discounts. Plus they can streamline the process, ensuring all you need to do is go along for the fun.

3. Senior discounts are waning.

Most airlines have done away with senior discounts. In 2013, the price comparison resource Fare Compare looked at senior discounts of various airlines and found most of them were unreliable.

4. Inquire about accessibility. If mobility is an issue or if there are any disabilities, contact your carrier and hotel or tour company and be sure that there will be accessibility arrangements, such as wheelchair access or ground-level accommodations.

5. Pack light. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get bogged down by excess luggage. Pack only what you need, including medications, in a carry-on bag.

6. Consider a cruise. Cruises combine food, entertainment and comfortable rooms in one convenient package.

7. Manage medications. If prescription medications are needed, be sure to consult with the doctor and pharmacy about getting a supply that will last the course of the trip.

8. Bring along a companion. You may feel more comfortable bringing along one of your children, another young relative or a close friend, especially if you are traveling internationally. This extra person can help navigate and ensure all your needs are met.

Seniors have the opportunity to travel more and can make such travel easier in various ways.

Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 14, 2020 â&#x20AC;¢ Living 50 Plus

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32 Living 50 Plus • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 14, 2020 ADVERTORIAL

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Over the last five years, Betty survived her husband and lost her independence as she could no longer take care of herself.

Betty’s adult children became increasingly concerned with her safety as her physical and cognitive skills diminished. Betty’s family collectively recognized that they needed help taking

When starting with a new patient, the first couple of weeks are about building mutual confidence and trust.

Bonds are being developed. In Betty’s case, the family was elated to find that When 7 Day Home over time, not only Care received a call were Betty’s activities from Betty’s family, of daily living needs we took the time to ask many questions in (Bathing, dressing, medication reminders, an effort to learn as etc.) met at a very much as possible high standard, but about Betty and to when they visited schedule our registered nurse for a visit Betty, they had no to perform an assess- caregiving responsibilities. This allowed ment and a plan of them to spend quality care. 7 Day Home time with their mom.

Care’s goal was to coordinate the best Our relationship lastmatch of caregivers ed for more than 5 designated to work years, with only 3 with Betty. Getting caregivers working the caregiver match with Betty in all that right is critical in minimizing turnover, time. The caregivers while maximizing the communicated frequently with Betty’s patients experience and meeting all their family, stayed with Betty when she was needs. The schedule hospitalized and in required two live in rehab. The caregivers caregivers working with Betty, 4 days and accompanied Betty to family holidays and 3 days each week birthday events. The respectively. care of their mother and they believed their mother would do best receiving this care while still living at home. It was time to give back to Betty.

chemistry between Betty and the caregivers was terrific and greatly helped improve Betty’s mental disposition.

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34 Living 50 Plus • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 14, 2020 ADVERTORIAL

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Senior perks and discounts

G

rowing older may come with some added laugh lines or a few extra aches and pains, but many will attest to the benefits and wisdom earned from a life welllived. And if that’s not enough, the discounts and other perks afforded seniors can make reaching one’s golden years a bit easier to embrace.

Every day the list of companies offering special deals for people of a certain age continues to grow.

Individuals willing to do the research or simply ask retailers and other businesses about their senior discount policies can be well on their way to saving serious money.

Keep in mind that the starting points for age-based discounts vary, with some offering deals to those age 50 and up, and others kicking in at 55 or 60-plus.

The following is a list of some of the discounts that may be available.

Confirm eligibility as companies change their policies from time to time. Also, the editors of Consumer World say that the senior discount might not always be the lowest price, so comparison shopping is a must to find out which discount or coupon is the best deal.

Amtrak: Travelers age 65 and older can enjoy a 10 percent discount on rail fares on most Amtrak trains. For those who prefer ground travel but want to leave the car at home, this can be a great way to get around.

Fast-food/sit-down restaurants: Establishments like Wendy’s, Arby’s, Burker King, Denny’s, Applebees, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, and Friendly’s offer various senior discounts. Most are 10 to 15 percent off the meal. Others offer free beverages or an extra perk with purchase.

Kohl’s: This popular department store provides a 15 percent discount

every Wednesday to shoppers ages 60-plus. Other stores like Modell’s, Belk, Bon-Ton, and SteinMart offer similar discounts.

Marriott: Travelers age 62 and older are privy to a 15-percent discount on room rates at Marriott brand hotels, subject to availability.

Roto-Rooter: Plumbing problems can get expensive, but online sources cite a 10 to 15 percent discount depending on location for this drain cleaning service provider in North America.

National Parks: The U.S. National Parks Service offers steep discounts on the annual pass, which provides entry to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites.

Grocery store: Food shopping gets a little easier with discounts at Bi-Lo, Fred Meyer, Gristedes, Harris Teeter, Piggly-Wiggly, and Publix.

Be sure to check with local supermarkets about senior discounts, as they vary, particularly as to what day of the week and for what age they kick in.

AARP membership: It is important to note that many companies require enrollment in AARP for people to get senior discounts.

AARP also has its own AARP Prescription Discount Card so that members and families can save around 61 percent on FDAapproved drugs that prescription insurance or Medicare Part D plans fail to cover.

T-Mobile: This carrier offers two lines with unlimited talk, text and LTE data for $35 with AutoPay for seniors age 55-plus. Only the primary account holder has to be 55.

With a little digging, seniors can find scores of discounts to help them save money while enjoying their golden years.

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36 Living 50 Plus â&#x20AC;˘ Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 14, 2020

Innovative fitness programs for seniors

I

t is important to stay active and eat healthy foods in an effort to promote ďŹ tness and well-being. This is especially true for seniors, many of whom lead increasingly sedentary lifestyles as they age.

The American Heart Association says adults should get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity, and a Harvard University study says that exercise can be an insurance policy for heart health.

Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seniors have more ďŹ tness options at their disposal than ever before. SilverSneakersÂŽ is the leading community ďŹ tness program for older adults in the United States. SilverSneakersÂŽ members can participate in specially curated programs at participating gyms and community centers across the nation. According to the organization, there are more participating ďŹ tness locations available than there are StarbucksÂŽ coffee establishments. Classes are ďŹ t for everyone, no matter their experience level.

Those concerned about gym costs may ďŹ nd that SilverSneakersÂŽ already is included in their Medicare Advantage plan for no additional cost. Plus, there is access to healthy living discounts from participating businesses.

Canada has begun to develop its own senior-centric ďŹ tness programs. The Healthy, Safe and Strong group exercise program is an introduction to safe exercises available for adults age 60 and older in the province of Ontario. The program can help develop better stamina, maintain or improve balance and increase strength and endurance. StrongerU Senior Fitness is a relatively new program of pre-choreographed group ďŹ tness offering instruction in four program types: cardio, strength training, stretching, and circuit training. The program addresses a need in Canada for quality and consistent senior ďŹ tness programing.

As studies show that engaging in physical activity is the most effective way for aging men and women to stay healthy, more adults may be compelled to join ďŹ tness groups that cater to the 50-and-over market.

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Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 14, 2020 â&#x20AC;˘ Living 50 Plus

37

ADVERTORIAL

How Can I Tell If I Have Glaucoma?

What is glaucoma?

Glaucoma is an eye disease in which the optic nerve is damaged, causing permanent vision loss. Most commonly, the damage occurs when your eyeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s internal fluid pressure rises too high. Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in the U.S. What causes glaucoma?

The exact cause of glaucoma is not known. For some reason, the passages that normally allow fluid within your eye become clogged or blocked. Fluid within your eye builds up and increases pressure on the optic nerve. The nerve fibers and blood vessels in the optic nerve are easily damaged by this pressure, resulting in vision loss. An injury, infection or tumor in or around the eye can also cause the pressure to rise. People who have glaucoma with normal eye pressure likely have poor blood flow to the optic nerve.

Who gets glaucoma?

Glaucoma most frequently occurs in individuals over the age of 40. In some families, the disease is hereditary. It is estimated that over 2 million Americans have glaucoma, and this number is expected to rise as the U.S. population ages.

How is glaucoma harmful to vision?

The optic nerve, at the back of the eye, carries visual information to the brain. As the optic nerve fibers are damaged, the amount and quality of information sent to the brain decreases and a loss of vision occurs.

Will I go blind from glaucoma?

If diagnosed at an early stage, glaucoma can often be controlled with little or no further vision loss. If left untreated, first peripheral vision and then central vision will be affected, and blindness may result.

How Is glaucoma detected?

A comprehensive optometric examination will include tests for glaucoma. A simple, painless procedure called tonometry measures the internal pressure of your eye. Health of the optic nerve and your field of vision will be checked.

How is glaucoma treated?

Glaucoma is usually effectively treated with prescription eye drops and medicines that must be taken regularly. Some cases require laser therapy or surgery.

Will my vision be restored after treatment?

No. But early detection and treatment can control glaucoma and reduce the chances of vision loss.

SEE YOUR WAY CLEAR

Doctor available for cataract & glaucoma testing, exams, contact lens fittings, dry & red eyes. By appt. only.

If you are over the age of 60, and it has been more than a year since your last eye exam, talk to us today about your vision care needs.

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38 Living 50 Plus • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, February 14, 2020 ADVERTORIAL

Heart Health and Management According to reports, more than 5% of persons age 60 to 69 have Congestive Heart Failure (CHF). Heart failure is responsible for 11 million physician visits each year, and more hospitalizations than all forms of cancer combined.

“Heart failure means the heart isn't pumping as well as it should be. Those diagnosed with Heart Failure and related conditions have a higher risk of hospital admissions and readmissions, said Gilda St. Fleur, Sr. Director, Quality Assurance & Clinical Management at AgeWell New York.

Gilda reinforces, the key is management and prevention, and treatment plans may involve lifestyle

changes, diet, exercise, medications, devices and surgical procedures.

It is important to set goals to manage your health and involve key people in your care, such as loved ones, doctors, specialists and your health plan.

Some recommended lifestyle habits include; • Keep your blood pressure and cholesterol stable- avoid high sodium foods.

• Exercise daily and stay active. Incorporate low impact exercises such as walking, swimming, ta-chi, cycling, gardening or yoga.

The American Heart Association notes that regular exercise leads to hearthealthy habits and can prevent conditions like obesity,

high blood pressure, and poor cholesterol levels, which can lead to heart attack and stroke.

• Visit your doctors/specialists regularly.

• Get all your annual screenings and immunizations and record any changes in your health. Identifying risk factors, unhealthy lifestyle habits, getting recommended screenings and vaccinations, are all part of ongoing heart healthy prevention and management • Take your medicines as your doctor prescribed. Talk to your doctor before you stop taking any, and keep a list of everything you take.

“The overall goal is to manage your condition and always take preventive meas-

ures, said Gilda. Ensure you have a strong care team to help you identify risks, or changes in your health.”

If you've been diagnosed with CHF, monitor your symptoms and alert your doctor if new symptoms appear or gets worse. If you think you may be at risk for CHF, speak with your doctor.

AgeWell New York offers Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans serving communities in Westchester, Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Nassau, and Suffolk counties.

Call today for eligibility and enrollment at 866-237-3210 or agewellnewyork.com.

They count on you, Medicare Advantage with Prescription Drug Plans & A Medicaid Advantage Plus Plan $0 or Low Cost Plan Premiums

So count on us to keep you going.

For people with Medicare, Medicare & Medicaid or those who need community based long term care services and supports in the home.

Call for eligibility and enrollment

agewellnewyork.com

718-696-0206 TTY/TDD

800-662-1220

AgeWell New York, LLC is a HMO plan with a Medicare and Medicaid contract. Enrollment in AgeWell New York, LLC depends on contract renewal. ATTENTION: If you do not speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 1-866-237-3210 (TTY/TDD: 1-800-662-1220). Hours are 7 days a week from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm. Note: From April 1 to September 30, we may use alternate technologies on Weekends and Federal holidays.

Assistance services for other languages are also available free of charge at the number above. AgeWell New York complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of races, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. AgeWell New York cumple con las leyes federales de derechos civiles aplicables y no discrimina por motivos de raza, color, nacionalidad, edad, discapacidad o sexo. AgeWell New York ସ،惨ऀङ刦଼ࡇ 㺖 ࡣ‫گ‬嫅ؔͫЉ֜䱷‫ޕ‬澝医਩澝ࡇ‫ޕ‬੦佷澝‫ٶ‬漞澝㼑ஞ۪‫ۅ‬⣫৲࠷嫌ѠѾы澞 H4922_CM4002_M Accepted 09302019