Health and Wellness Quarterly - Fall 2021 by Times Media Group

Special Supplement to The Glendale Star and Peoria Times

HEALTH

WELLNESS Your Local Guide to Better Living

Fall 2021

INSIDE

This Issue

GCC ........................4 Glendale Community College helps seniors manage their holiday stress

LUKE AIRMAN & FAMILY ................. 8 Bundles for Babies/Kids Ride Safe class offers car seats

HOSPICE OF THE VALLEY ............... 18 Managing stress and anxiety of dementia during the holidays

Glencroft brings hope to Parkinson’s patients

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

lencroft Center for Modern Aging in Glendale is incorporating golf into the lives of Parkinson’s patients with weekly sessions at The Wigwam. Steve Heller called ZoeLife Parkinson’s Immersion Program a holistic rehab and prevention program. P.I.P. golf is a customized therapeutic golf program designed to improve and delay symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease. It is for those who want to improve their golf game, manage symptoms and safely continue golfing. It was designed to improve functional movement, balance, strength, flexibility, coordination, posture, conditioning, kinematic golf swing mechanics, nutrition, speech and golfing technique, as well as alleviate depression. “We do this every Thursday,” said Heller, the vice president and director of ZoeLife Operations. “We shuttle a group of residents for a fun morning of golf and friendship.” The P.I.P. Golf Performance Team includes exercise physiologists with extensive knowledge of golf physiology, PGA-certified golf instructors, speech and physical therapists, and nutritionists who collaborate to maximize individual well-being while prolonging the joy of golfing. Heller said the sport is perfect for those with Parkinson’s because many of them gave up golf. “I ask them, ‘When you received the

You Want

Steve Heller of Glencroft Center for Modern Aging’s ZoeLife gives Ruth Smith a few golﬁng tips. (Photo courtesy of Glencroft Center for Modern Aging)

news that you have Parkinson’s, what did you give up?’” Heller said. “Inevitably, the word ‘golf’ kept coming up. They hang up the sticks and say, ‘I’m never playing golf again.’ I thought this was too perfect of a scenario to have a legitimate Parkinson’s golf team who trains together.” Heller reached out to The Wigwam, which “rolled out the red carpet.” The Litchfield Park resort is not charging Glencroft. The group could participate even through COVID-19, as golf is played on a sprawling course. “Nobody in this country is attacking Par-

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kinson’s with golfers,” Heller said. “It’s way outside of the box. I thought we could be really creative here.” The participants’ mindset improves when they are on the golf course and they start winning. “It checks every box we hoped it would,” Heller said. “The hardest part of Parkinson’s is they have no sense of hope. They’re just decimated, and they feel anxious. Telling these folks that they can play golf again boosts their mood.” On the Glencroft campus, Heller creat-

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Fall 2021

Seniors can manage stress with these 4 tips BY LOUISE SO

Glendale Community College

s the holiday season approaches, life gets busier and stress levels rise incrementally. Unfortunately, life does not slow down enough to enjoy the smell of cinnamon and spices of the season. It’s up to everyone to make the choice to combat these stressors to help bring about a healthy holiday season. In the interest of reducing stress, here are four quick coping strategies: 1. Pace yourself: Trust that your work will get done and don’t be afraid to stop for a while and step away. Try a change in scenery or a different task to break up a feeling of being overwhelmed. Shifting focus to a different project can give your brain some time to relax and refresh. 2. Support yourself — and another: Grab a friend to walk with. Having a strong social support system at home or at work can brighten your day and allow for problem solving. Utilize the stress reducing benefits of being able to

share your thoughts with others. 3. Relax yourself: Activate your mind, body and spirit with activities like yoga or tai chi. Being mindful can help you relax and improve focus for your tasks. To be mindful is to have an awareness of your surroundings. This introspective look may help you see new perspectives or find the root cause of your stress. Meditation can also help you relieve stress and reset your frame of mind by completing a body scan. Try out free web apps such as Insight Timer to relax, reset and refresh! 4. Move yourself: Get up and move. The benefits of stress reduction with exercise are well documented. Try a 15-minute walk, bike ride or swim to reduce stress for hours. Check out the GCC walking routes or visit the GCC Fitness Centers. The fitness centers at Glendale Community College provide a welcoming environment for all fitness levels under the guidance of degreed and certified instructors. Call 623-845-3800 for more information.

Glendale Community College Fitness Center. (Photo courtesy of GCC)

Hope...continued from page 1 ed two golf teams, and each team has a captain from independent living. They do not have Parkinson’s, but they’re getting their vocational hours being a captain. “This collective hybrid of non-Parkinson’s golfers and being the ambassador and cheering on these park residents is a cool yin and yang out there,” Heller said. “In ZoeLife, they have to do a certain number of hours to be a part of the program. They’re being around these Parkinson’s folks and cheering them on. It’s a cool model. You feel like you’re giving back.” Heller said interest has grown from outside of Glencroft’s walls. He receives calls from Sun City, the West Valley, Paradise Valley and Scottsdale. “They say, ‘I’m not ready to move to Glencroft, but I want to do that program,’” he said. “We started figuring out packages for locals to participate without living at Glencroft. “They can buy X number of sessions, three golf trips to The Wigwam, two

P.I.P. golf is a customized therapeutic golf program designed to improve and delay symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease. (Photo courtesy of Glencroft Center for Modern Aging)

virtual reality sessions and one workout, or something along those lines. That’s what’s been really cool. It’s spread like wildfire.”

Glencroft Center for Modern Aging 8611 N. 67th Avenue, Glendale 623-939-9475, glencroft.com

Fall 2021

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Fall 2021

Arizona School of Dental Assisting offers quality education BY ARIZONA SCHOOL OF DENTAL ASSISTING

e opened the doors in 2001, being the first 12-week program in the state of Arizona. We are licensed by the State Post Secondary School of Education and are approved for funding by many state agencies. It is our endeavor to prepare individuals with the knowledge and technical proficiency that will allow them to become immediately employable in a dental office upon graduation. It is our objective to offer the best possible education in the shortest possible time consistent with proper educational procedures. Students are accepted regardless of sex, race, age, marital status, religious creed, ethnic or national origin. There are many opportunities available to well-trained individuals in the dental profession. It is our desire to train chairside dental assistants to assume the many positions available in the dental field. Modern dentistry requires the assistance of dental assis-

tants well schooled in four-handed or sit-down dentistry. It is very difficult for dentists today to treat their patients without proper chairside assistance. The Arizona School of Dental Assisting is dedicated to the ideal of developing efficient, effective dental assistants through a competency-based program. For more information, call the Arizona School of Dental Assisting at 602-6787061 or visit azdentalassistants.com. Arizona School of Dental Assisting would like to thank the community for nominating and voting us in the Top Colleges / Higher Education Category in the 2021 Best of Glendale.

Honorable Mention

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Fall 2021

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Terra Pointe Memory Care offers respite stay BY TERRA POINTE MEMORY CARE

aring for a spouse, parent or grandparent with Alzheimer’s is a true labor of love. Families who are dedicated caregivers face many challenges. Managing your health means taking breaks to recharge and refocus. Allow us to give you peace of mind while you take care of yourself and we take care of your loved one. Respite can be a crucial part of your care plan for your loved one. The staff provides a safe, positive, loving environment for loved ones, giving caregivers the space to concentrate on their needs. At Terra Pointe Memory Care, residents receive personal, attentive care. The staff focuses on supporting residents, its families and its employees as if they were family. Whether you are just beginning your search for an assisted living community or have been researching memory care options for a loved one, we would be honored to be your resource as you explore what is

best for your loved ones’ situation. The monthly base rent includes licensed nurse supervision; medication management; 24-hour care staff; weekly housekeeping; linen service; spacious rooms with private bathrooms; rollin showers with shower chairs; wheelchair accessible; individual room thermostats; maintenance service; cable, internet and Wi-Fi included; purposed-based memory care programming amenities; beautiful, secured courtyards; friendly dining service; IN2L activities interactive system; transportation service; scheduled outings; scenic drives; supervised exercise program; movie room; cozy li-

brary and hair salon/barbershop. Come meet the amazing Terra Pointe

team, which is here for residents and their families.

Health & Wellness

Fall 2021

Airman & Family Readiness Center is never the wrong place BY AIRMAN & FAMILY READINESS CENTER

Bundles for Babies/Kids Ride Safe class offers a free car seat so parents can learn about proper installation. (Photo courtesy of Airman & Family Readiness Center)

AIRMAN & FAMILY READINESS CENTER

NEVER THE WRONG PLACE TO GO! MILITARY MEMBERS, DOD CIVILIANS* & FAMILIES

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Bundles for Babies Military & Family Life Consultant Assistance Heart Link (New Spouse Orientation) Employment Assistance Transition Services (Active Duty to Civilian) Hearts Apart Support Activities Relocation & Sponsorship Services Financial Counseling/Education New or Expectant Mothers Class Emergency Financial Assistance Family Strengthening Programs & Resources Personal Development Information & Resources Exceptional Family Member Program Provides support to Military family members with special needs • Information and Referral Services Discovery Center - Resources for relocations, transition, employment, housing, schools, and more! AMVETS - Provides medical records screening and assistance with VA disability claims

• School Liaison Officer Addresses educational issues involving military children and youth in the local school community

Monthly Dept. of Lab TAP Employmor en Workshop t

Contact us for further information: (623) 856-6550 Email: 56fss.fsfr@luke.af.mil 7282 N. 137th Ave. Bldg.1113 Luke AFB, AZ. 85309 “We’re never the wrong place to go!” *Limited Services for DoD Civilians and their families

ctive-duty members and their spouses who are expecting a baby, or new mothers assigned to an Air Force installation, are encouraged to contact the Airman & Family Readiness Center to sign up for a Bundles for Babies/Kids Ride Safe class. Parents can receive a free car seat and learn about proper installation in their vehicle, parenting skills and finances; meet other expectant parents; and receive a bundle of supplies. That includes a large, canvas tote bag with AFAS logo, thermal receiving blanket, hooded towel and washcloth, white knit crib sheet, printed knit crib sheet, three-pack sleep-n-play, five-pack onesies, two pairs of booties, two bibs and three burp cloths. Classes are open to all ranks and are not limited to a first pregnancy. The transition from singlehood to married life is tough, and marrying a military member can pose its own unique challenges. Heart Link is a program designed to familiarize civilian spouses with the military and alleviate some of these issues. From military protocol to traditions and lingo, Heart Link teaches civilian spouses what their military counterparts deal with daily. Spouses are introduced to the military community. They have an important role to play: keeping up the home front while their spouses are deployed and being a source of support for the airmen. Heart Link, which is geared toward newlyweds, is designed to help connect military members with their spouses. By integrating spouses into the military, it helps to enhance mission readiness. Participants learn about military protocol and military and Air Force traditions including the role of coining and the Air Force song. Learning these things helps them understand military culture. Military Family Life Consultants

(MFLC) provides short-term, nonmedical counseling to service members and their families. MFLCs augment existing military support programs worldwide. Through the MFLC Program, licensed clinical providers assist service members and their families with issues they may face through the cycle of deployment — from leaving their loved ones and possibly living and working in harm’s way to reintegrating with their community and family. The MFLC program provides support for a range of individual and family issues. Psycho-educational presentations on reunion/reintegration, stress/ coping, grief/loss and deployment are provided to commands, Family Readiness Groups, Soldier Readiness Processing and other requested locations. MFLC support is also provided to the Child and Youth Program and specifically for the summer DoDEA/CYP summer enrichment program. Support for these issues empowers individuals during the problem-solving process, increases individual and family competency and confidence in handling the stressors of military life and ensures that issues do not impair operational readiness. Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) is designed to provide support to military family members with special needs. EFMP services include a variety of personnel, medical and family support functions. The Exceptional Family Member ProgramFamily Support (EFMP-FS) is a community support function provided by the Airman & Family Readiness Center that includes, but is not limited to, onand off-base information and referral, parent training, support group, relocation assistance, financial management and school information. For more information, call 623-8566550; email 56fss.fsfr@luke.af.mil; or visit 7282 N. 137th Avenue, Building 1113, Luke AFB, AZ 85309.

SEE MORE ONLINE PEORIATIMES.COM

Fall 2021

La Siena Senior Living Community offers an engaging lifestyle, delicious dining options and supportive services. (Photo courtesy of La Siena)

Think outside the salad bowl for health dining BY LA SIENA

t La Siena, an active retirement community in Phoenix, residents can savor the flavors of fresh, healthy food choices year-round. As part of the community’s expansive dining choices and ever-evolving menus, its Fresh Zest options encourage a plantbased, whole-foods diet that has been shown to offer a wealth of health benefits and may even reverse some chronic ailments, particularly in older adults. To start, the culinary team at La Siena recommends thinking outside the salad bowl — beyond lettuce, carrots and tomatoes. The active retirement community’s signature Fresh Zest entrees include artichoke and cremini mushroom eggplant cannelloni, crispy bean chimichanga, potato and spinach gnocchi, pad thai spaghetti squash and a caprese stuffed avocado. Studies have shown the potential benefits of a plant-based diet include:

Health & Wellness

1. Protecting your brain health. A plant-based diet, rich in antioxidants, folate and vitamin E, avoids saturated fat and trans fat, which can increase the risk for Alzheimer’s disease and other cognitive conditions. 2. Reducing inflammation in your body. High in fiber and antioxidants, plant-based diets are naturally anti-inflammatory and can help manage aches and pains, boost the immune system and more. 3. Lowering blood cholesterol levels. Studies show that plant-based diets can lower blood cholesterol levels. 4. Reducing your chances of getting type-2 diabetes. Eating less meat over time can decrease the diabetes risk. For more information about the engaging senior living lifestyle, delicious dining options and supportive services offered at La Siena, please call 602-635-6968 or visit us at lasienaseniorliving.com.

Having a best friend in the kitchen. That’s the Power of WE. Imagine your life having a complete support system. It’s like an extended family working together, supporting you, lifting you up, raising your spirits and making life easier. Every day. Smiles at every turn, a chef who knows just how you like your favorite meal. A life thriving through connection. That’s senior living at La Siena.

Call 602.635.6968 to schedule your personalized tour today!

C A R F-ACC R ED IT ED I N D EP EN D EN T & A S S I S T ED LIV I N G R E S I D EN C E S

909 East Northern Avenue • Phoenix • 602.635.6968 LaSienaSeniorLiving.com EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

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Fall 2021

Benevilla West Valley Life Enrichment Day Program improves lives

BY BENEVILLA

enevilla shares a story. For more than 29 years, the Benevilla West Valley Life Enrichment Program has enriched the lives of so many families and their loved ones. The West Valley Life Enrichment Program is a day program for older adults with dementia, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s; stroke survivors; and adults with disabilities. This program provides a safe place for families to bring their loved ones every day and have a better quality of life at every age. The compassion and high quality of service Benevilla’s staff provides is why its members love coming to the program. Benevilla believes everyone has a purpose and their lives can be enriched — no matter their stage of life. Its members come daily and check into the program and enjoy a morning snack and coffee with their friends. The morning activities, like exercising, virtual bowling, Zumba and yoga, start at about 10 a.m. at West Valley

Life Enrichment Program. The members also enjoy bingo, creative aging art projects, puzzles and other games. The members are served a delicious, hot lunch at noon daily from Birt’s Bistro. Later in the day, they have a light afternoon snack followed by more activities and brain games. Benevilla’s goal is to promote physical, social, intellectual, spiritual, emotional, environmental and/or vocational health and well-being. Having a safe and secure place for loved ones is important to the caregiver. They need that time as well, so having this program means they can feel at ease knowing their loved one is safe, happy and having fun while they rest and rejuvenate themselves. The West Valley Life Enrichment Program is located at 8133 W. Cactus Road, Peoria. It is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays to Fridays. Started by the community and for the community in 1981, Benevilla is a notfor-profit human services agency ded-

LIFE ENRICHMENT DAY PROGRAMS

For every person enrolled in a Benevilla program, two people get their lives back: the individual and the caregiver.

Benevilla Life Enrichment Program member enjoying day time creative arts programming. (Photo courtesy of Benevilla)

icated to enhancing the lives of West Valley residents by providing care services for older adults, intellectually disabled adults, children and families.

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For more information on services and volunteer opportunities, to take a tour or to donate to Benevilla, call 623-5844999 or visit benevilla.org.

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Fall 2021

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Avanti Senior Living individualizes client care

BY AVANTI SENIOR LIVING

vanti Senior Living at Peoria is conveniently located off North Lake Pleasant Parkway. Nearby are Abrazo Peoria Emergency Center, the Lake Pleasant Town Center and numerous restaurants. Popular sites such as the picturesque Sahuaro Ranch Park and the historical Pioneer Arizona Living History Museum are close, too. Avanti’s proprietary Mind • Body • Strength wellness program is designed to keep clients stronger, sharper and healthier so they can do the things they love. Many residents report feeling stronger and more stable within a few weeks of consistent and active participation in Avanti’s fitness classes. Avanti Senior Living’s holistic approach to caring for its residents is innovative. Good design and amenities that are unparalleled in the industry work together to enrich the lives of our residents by providing a relaxed and welcoming community. Each program is developed to help Avanti’s residents

Exterior view of Avanti Senior Living at Peoria’s assisted living and memory care community. Located in scenic North Peoria off Lake Pleasant Parkway, just north of Happy Valley. (Photo courtesy of Avanti Senior Living)

live independently while offering freedom of choice.

About Salize by Avanti Salize, Avanti’s memory support program, is designed to fit the individual needs of each resident. Through the

WE’VE THOUGHT OF EVERYTHING THAT MATTERS. ESPECIALLY WHAT MATTERS TO YOU.

Salize program, residents live as independently as possible while thriving in an environment designed specifically for those living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Salize is a revolutionary memory support program that has been shown

to reduce common symptoms of dementia, such as agitation, anxiety and aggression, without the need for strong pharmaceutical prescriptions. For more information, visit Avanti Senior Living at Peoria at 602-3664600 or peoria.avanti-sl.com.

At Avanti Senior Living, our residents experience a lifestyle that matters most to them! • Daily Happy Hour • Daily Fitness Classes • Onsite Salon and Health Spa • Purposeful Engagements & Outings • Full-time, Certified Fitness Instructor • One-on-one Healthy Lifestyle Meetings • Onsite, Private Exam Room for Doctor Visits

Assisted Living and Memory Care

By Avanti Memory Care

To learn more about Avanti Senior Living and Memory Services, visit our website www.avanti-sl.com or call 602-366-4600 to schedule a tour.

Avanti Senior Living at Peoria | 26850 N. Lake Pleasant Parkway | Peoria, AZ 85383 | License # AL11394C | www.peoria.avanti-sl.com

The Palazzo surpasses expectations P 12

BY THE PALAZZO

icture yourself stepping into a luxurious resort community complete with smiling faces, ample amenities and eye-catching, Tuscan-style architecture. This is precisely what you’ll find at The Palazzo Senior Living, a continuing care community offering independent and assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing. The Palazzo welcomes residents as young as 55 and can accommodate couples who may have differing care needs, allowing partners to live together in the same community while each receiving the assistance you need. While the quality of care provided is superior, so, too, are the amenities you gain access to as a resident of The Palazzo. From a full-service salon, daily happy hour opportunities, a temperature-controlled wine cellar and 24-hour concierge

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services to chances to enjoy game nights, a heated pool and spa, and a gift shop, among other notable features, The Palazzo packs everything one needs into the same expansive, inviting property. The Palazzo also partners with the Jewish Family & Children’s Senior Enrichment Center to offer complimentary programming every Tuesday. From water aerobics and tai chi to exercise classes, live musical performances and educational lectures and seminars, residents of The Palazzo gain access to a revolving lineup of interactive and immersive programs and classes that foster community and encourage physical and mental fitness. Affordable, centrally located and ultramodern, The Palazzo not only meets but exceeds expectations. Come see for yourself why so many are choosing to spend the best years of their lives at The Palazzo.

Fall 2021

Palazzo residents enjoy an end-of-summer water exercise class and relaxation around the pool. (Photo courtesy of The Palazzo)

Sneezing has dangers

BY REISHA ZANG

t seems to come from out of nowhere, a sudden sharp pain in your mid to lower back. The intensity may increase when you are standing or walking and lessen when you are lying down. The cause? It could be a vertebral compression fracture, also known as compression fracture in the spine. This type of fracture is relatively common and can happen from everyday activities like stepping off a curb, coughing, lifting a heavy box, or taking a fall. Even something as simple as a sneeze can cause it. The most common cause of vertebral compression fractures is osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a disease that affects your bones, causing the inside to lose strength and density, while the outside becomes weak and thin. While osteoporosis is the most common cause, cancer, infection or even a car accident can also result in these fractures. “Compression fractures are very debilitating,” said Dr. Michael Switzer, medical director of Comprehensive

Integrated Care in Gilbert. They cause chronic back pain and loss of height and can even make it hard to breathe, all of which can have a significant impact on your life. “People often find themselves restricted to bed and heavily medicated,” Switzer said. “They are at their wits end because nothing takes away the pain.” While compression fractures can heal on their own, it can take a long time. The most common treatments include bed rest, physical therapy, back braces and pain medication. While these may provide some relief, they do not address the loss of the natural height of the vertebrae, the probable reason for your pain. And, during this time, the symptoms can still be disabling, leading to a more sedentary lifestyle. “Inactivity leads to a spiral effect. People continue to go downhill,” Switzer said. “Kyphoplasty is a tool that can help.” Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure. Through a small nick in the skin, the doctor uses X-ray guidance

The most common cause of vertebral compression fractures is osteoporosis. (Stock photo)

to treat the broken bone. It’s done in an office setting, and patients go home within hours. “Recovery is easy, and heavy pain medications are not needed. Patients are surprised, but they don’t need it because they feel better,” he explained. Switzer has had many patients come in who were unable to tie their shoes on

their own. After the procedure, he asks them to tie their shoes. Without even thinking about it, they are able to bend over and do it themselves. “The symptoms are improved so much when it’s done,” Switzer said. “Nothing is more gratifying than seeing a patient after the procedure. They’re happy.”

Fall 2021

Health & Wellness Sponsored Content

PAD Impacts Everyday Living PHOENIX –The need to stop and rest after walking a short distance because of a leg cramps, numbness in the feet or leg pain could be more than normal aging or adjusting to increased activity. While the inclination may be to think it’s just part of getting older, these symptoms may be caused by vascular insufficiency. Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is one of those conditions that is sometimes easy to dismiss. “If you find yourself needing to rest because your leg cramps when you walk even a short distance, or at night you need to stand up to relieve a cramp in your foot, that’s your legs and feet telling you they need help,” says Dr. Joel Rainwater, chief medical officer of Comprehensive Integrated Care (CiC). “PAD is often called the silent killer because you may have it and not even know,” says Rainwater. Its diagnosis is often delayed and not identified until it has progressed.

build-up occurs gradually and hardens into plaque inside the artery restricting blood flow. Without an adequate blood supply, the body can’t get the oxygen and nutrients it needs to maintain healthy legs and feet. “It’s not normal to have difficulty walking to your mailbox, it’s not normal to have constant leg pain or cramping,” says Rainwater. It’s also interesting to note, that the symptoms of PAD and neuropathy are very similar. They include difficulty walking without taking a break, burning, tingling, numbness and/or pain. “When I see a patient who has been told they have neuropathy and they’ve been maximized on medication that’s not working, I know there may be something else causing it and one of the big, notorious offenders in that scenario is PAD,” says Rainwater. PAD is caused by the buildup of fatty material inside the arteries. This

“This is something we can fix,” explains Rainwater. “The good news about PAD, is that there’s hope. There is treatment and it’s excellent, it’s been one of the biggest success stories in all of medicine.” Patients are able to get back on their feet and everyday living with almost no downtime, no stitches and no overnight hospital stay. Medicare as well as most insurance plans will cover treatment. “I’m here to tell patients that there are options, all they have to do is ask. They might have to ask a different doctor, but they don’t have to live with the idea that they’re going to suffer for the rest of their life,” says Rainwater. His best advice, “Go look for answers.”

PAD IS OFTEN MISDIAGNOSED. WERE YOU? Y/N

Do you have difficulty walking without taking a break? Do you experience pain, numbness, or cramping in your feet or legs? Is you neuropathy treatment not making symptoms go away?

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Heel Pain Is on The Rise Restaurants are busy, baseball stadiums are welcoming fans, and this summer is slated to be one of the busiest travel seasons ever. “Getting back to a normal lifestyle can be a shock to your feet,” says Dr. Kerry Zang, podiatric medical director of CiC Foot & Ankle. More than two million Americans suffer from plantar fasciitis, a sharp, stabbing, sometimes burning pain in the heel or arch of the foot. It’s anticipated this number will rise as activity levels increase. It typically hurts when first getting up, may lessen after a few steps but always returns. In the past, a cortisone injection was given. “Cortisone manages the pain, but it doesn’t address what’s causing the pain,” says Zang. Now, new treatment options focus on resolving the condition, not just the treating the symptoms. “Regenerative medicine is one of the most promising ways to deal with pain, because it triggers the body to heal,” he explains. “One form is prolotherapy, which tricks the body into thinking it was injured and starts the healing process.” The FDA recently approved cold laser therapy for plantar fasciitis. “Laser treatment helps reduce pain, increase circulation and attracts the patient’s own growth factors to the area, all of which promote healing,” says Zang. If left untreated pain can become chronic, but the good news is there are still options. “Growth factor therapy jump starts and maintains regeneration of new tissues,” says Zang. “It’s all about healing.”

Support good health with flu shots, vaccinations 14

Health & Wellness

BY SHANNON C. SCOTT, D.O., FACOFP Midwestern University

ach year, Arizona residents face outbreaks of preventable illnesses including influenza (flu), measles, whooping cough, hepatitis, varicella (chickenpox), pneumonia, and human papilloma virus (HPV). Vaccines not only provide protection for children but also protect our community by reducing infection and the spread of disease. People who work regularly with children should also be vaccinated, including teachers, tutors, coaches and caregivers. Different vaccines are needed at different ages: • Newborns through 6 years of age — pneumonia; hepatitis A and B; chickenpox; haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib); diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (DTaP); polio; rotavirus; measles; mumps; rubella and flu. • Seven through 18 years of age — three vaccines at age 11-12 are recommended, including HPV, tetanus and pertussis (Tdap) and meningococcal

(MCV). • Ages 12 through adult — COVID-19 vaccine and booster, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Adults who will be spending time with a new baby should receive boosters of newborn shots to protect the infant while his/her immunity develops. Older adults will also benefit from shingles and pneumonia vaccinations. Almost everyone who is at least 6 months of age and older should also get a flu shot annually in the fall. More information about vaccine and immunization schedules for the entire family can be found at cdc.gov/ vaccines. Always talk with your health care provider about any questions you have about vaccinations. The information contained in this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, care or treatment. Always consult a qualified health care provider with questions regarding any possible health condition.

Fall 2021

Children and adults require immunizations and vaccine boosters at various ages. Fall is a great time to schedule annual wellness exams and talk with your doctor about recommended vaccines for the entire family. (Photo courtesy of Midwestern University)

Shannon C. Scott is an osteopathic family physician who specializes in health for the whole family, including women’s health and pediatrics. She is a clinical associate professor in fam-

WE HAVE YOU COVERED FROM HEAD TO TOE

ily medicine, medical director for the Midwestern University Multispecialty Clinic in Glendale, and assistant dean of the Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Accepting New Patients To schedule an appointment call

480.725.3022 New Patients Welcome Most Insurances and Medicare Accepted

Scan the QR code beside to find a location near you and schedule your appointment. To find out more about expert dermatologists visit us at azcdps.com

Fall 2021

Health & Wellness

Serving the Valley in Retina Care since 1974.

Dedicated to the Preservation and Restoration of Vision

Alan J. Gordon, J. Alan J. Gordon, Shepard Bryan, J. Shepard Stephen Bryan, A.M. Stephen A.M. Jr. Henry Rahul Reddy, Henry M. Kwong, M.K. Kwong, Jr. Rahul K. Reddy, J. Shepard De Bryan, A.M. Rahul K. Reddy, Henry Jr. MHS M.D.Alan J. Gordon, M.D. M.D. Souza, M.D. De M.D. Stephen Souza, M.D.M. Kwong, M.D., M.D., MHS M.D. M.D. M.D. M.D. De Souza, M.D. M.D., MHS M.D.

Photo of a branch retinal artery occlusion left eye. (Photo courtesy Associated Retina Consultants)

Patients come ﬁrst at Associated Retina Consultants BY ASSOCIATED RETINA CONSULTANTS

or more than 30 years, Associated Retina Consultants has served Arizona by providing access to the most innovative treatments of diseases and conditions affecting the retina, macula, and the vitreous humor of the eye. Associated Retina Consultants is the state’s largest independently owned retina practice. This allows the practice to remain free of any restrictions that might inhibit it from providing patients the best possible treatment as it continues to strive for excellence. Care is provided with the utmost courtesy, professionalism, comfort and respect for patients’ time because, at ARC, patients come first. The practice recently welcomed Dr. Rima Patel. She is board-certified in ophthalmology and has completed formal subspecialty training in medical and surgical diseases of the retina, vitreous and macula. The practice’s team of 10 highly skilled retina physicians

understands how important eyesight is and how challenging it can be coping with impaired vision. That is why our practice is dedicated to the preservation and restoration of sight. Associated Retina Consultants’ staff is closely monitoring the ongoing changes and guidelines of the COVID-19 pandemic. Because of the serious, urgent nature of some of the conditions it treats, the offices will remain open for business with certain limitations. Visit its website for more information about its efforts as a practice at associatedretinaconsultants. com. It is ARC’s priority to provide the best possible care while ensuring the health and safety of our patients, staff and community. For the most up-todate information about the COVID-19 pandemic, visit the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO.org) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC.gov). Contact Associated Retina Consultants at 602-242-4928.

RimaA.Patel, Rima Patel, Benjamin Bakall, Benjamin Jaime R. Gaitan, Bakall, Jaime R. Gaitan, Reda A. Issa, Reda Issa, Benjamin Bakall, Jaime R. Gaitan, M.D. Rima Patel, M.D. M.D., Ph.D. M.D. M.D., Ph.D. M.D. M.D. Reda A. Issa,M.D. M.D. M.D. M.D. M.D., Ph.D. M.D. M.D. M.D.

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to reduce the time it takes to do the returns and we are researching the possibility of 16 being open on Saturdays.” However, he stressed these plans are preliminary and dependent on whether AARP Foundation ofﬁcials allow the program. Training volunteers could also present a problem due BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI to space. Last year training was conducted at one of the t 1st Classic Dental in Sun City, Recreation Centers of Sun Dr. Omaima Samain is passionCity facilities. ate about dental implants. at this point I don’t Others have recognized this as“Plus well, have any idea how many of as she was recognized by Hiossen Imthe volunteers will return if plant as Arizona’s top dentist. we do have a program,” Mr. Samain has the credentials to back up. Graffitsaid. She earned her Doctor of Dental Sur-the Tax-Aire proWhen gery at New York University School of gram returns, whether it be 2021 or Dentistry. She trained for twoinyears in the next year, res-

Sun City CAN’s other ser- fundraiser will be conducted vices remain available, in- soon, he added. cluding the water rebate for “I anticipate us breaking condo owners andHealth help with& Wellness even or maybe even being a electricity bills for low-in- little in the black a little bit,” come residents. he said. Mr. Duncan said officials CAN officials also hope to are in the process of apply- increase their exposure to ing for grant funds from the community, providing Arizona Public Service Co. more opportunity for resiASSISTED LIVING LOCATORS for the electricity program. BYdents to understand what the ssistedoffers. Living Locators proSouthwest Gas, which does organization not have a grant application Ms.vides Rode atold boardreferral serfreethesenior process, donated $1,000, dou- during its Sept. 8 meeting vice in Glendale, Peoria, Sun ble the company’s normal City that Radiant Church, 10701 the East and Surprise, throughout amount, for the Crisis As- andW.West Boswell Blvd., new to valleys. sistance program. Sun City, officials are trying Assisted Living Locators provides Funds from that program to start a weekly food distrithe full socialization continuum and of edcare, offering are used for the water rebate, bution, in locating assisted electricity, gas, taxi ticket and assistance ucation event in whichquality othoptions throughout “Paint the Town,” a new pro- living er service organizations can the Valley based on the clients’ budget, preferred gram just added. participate. “It is nice being an inde- location “We are intoneeds. being andlooking medical

Fall 2021

Dr. Samain is top dentist Assisted Living Locators offers free senior referral services in Arizona

general dentistry and hospital dentistry at University of Nevada School of Medicine. She furthered her training in removable and fixed dentures at University of Connecticut School of Dentistry and studied dental implants at Misch International Implant Institute. A member of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, Samain prides herself on listening to her patients and getting to know each one. “At 1st Classic Dental, we are a team of loving and caring staff who practice

Dr. Omaima Samain of 1st Classic Dental says she has a loving and caring staff. (Photo courtesy 1st Classic Dental)

comfortable, health-centered dentistry,” she said.

1st Classic Dental

Royal Oak Plaza 13203 N. 103rd Avenue, Suite G1, Sun City 623-974-0123

The franchise is owned by elder care adviser and registered nurse Lori Sears. Assisted Living Locators offers a no-cost service for seniors and their families providing advice on shortand long-term care options, including in-home care, independent living, assisted living, memory care and independent retirement communities. It generates revenue from the fees per placement paid by the assisted living facilities. For more information about As-

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YES ARE O Lori Sears owns the local Assisted Living Locators franchise. She’s an elder care adviser and registered nurse. (Submitted photo)

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Fall 2021

Health & Wellness

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Health & Wellness

Fall 2021

Sharing the holidays with a loved one with dementia BY HOSPICE OF THE VALLEY’S DEMENTIA TEAM

he holidays can be enjoyable and stressful. The hustle and bustle may cause fatigue and overstimulation in someone living with dementia, leading to confusion, anxiety or agitation. Caregivers may become overwhelmed, particularly with the additional challenges posed by COVID-19. So how can we modify traditional holiday celebrations so they continue to bring joy while optimizing the safety and well-being of everyone involved? • Try to maintain routine as much as possible. • Keep expectations realistic and give yourself permission to do only what you can reasonably accomplish. Ask family and friends for help so there is time to do shopping, cooking or just rest. • Be flexible. Perhaps celebrate with brunch if your loved one is usually tired or anxious later in the day. Allow him/ her to direct the flow of the day. If he/she needs a nap, honor that need. • Keep gatherings small (three to five people) and simple. Help others understand that decisions regarding in-person and virtual (phone or video calls) cele-

brations will focus on whatever is best to keep your person safe and comfortable. • Do not talk in front of the person with dementia as if he/she is not present. Do not argue, contradict or question. Avoid explanations that may overwhelm. Update others on changes so they can adjust their communication styles to fit the person’s current abilities. • Develop a ritual to honor the person living with dementia — maybe serve a favorite dish this person prepared in the past and give everyone the recipe. Share favorite stories that involve the person. • Provide soft and sweet foods (ice cream is always a good choice). • To bring joy with sensory stimulation, choose ways that honor the lifelong preferences of the person with dementia and bring comfort. Choose experiences associated with the holiday — songs, traditional foods, the smell of seasonal potpourri or spices, holiday stories or photos. The best gifts are often your time and focused attention. Simply listen to caregivers and offer opportunities for respite, even if it’s an hour or two of downtime. For the person living with dementia, gentle touch, conversation and a comforting presence are reassuring.

And because time is even more precious during the holiday season, Hospice of the Valley’s support groups for dementia caregivers are available on Zoom from the comfort of home. All are welcome to join these no-cost sessions: • Tuesdays at 10 a.m., join Dr. Maribeth Gallagher, Dementia Program director, for a short practice to help relax and refresh, then discuss your heartfelt concerns as a caregiver. • Wednesdays at noon, experienced so-

ing. It empowers people to age successfully and the opportunity to learn and redefine their life’s purpose and direction. Studies have shown that older adults who keep learning are less likely to develop dementia or Alzheimer’s. Education is a way to form an emotional connection to new experiences and information. Those feelings can positively impact how we perceive other activities in our day-to-day life. Glencroft University took three types of educational platforms — formal, informal and life experiences — and merged them to create a platform that takes the best of each. The results motivated residents to keep learning. For more information about Glencroft University and continued education for older adults, visit glencroft. com or call 623-939-9475.

Glencroft University’s graduating class from September. (Photo courtesy of Glencroft)

Christiane and Muryl Cole appreciate the support they receive from Hospice of the Valley’s Supportive Care for Dementia program. (Photo courtesy of Hospice of the Valley)

cial worker Nicole Crothers discusses the challenges and rewards of providing care for a person living with dementia. Find Zoom links to both groups at hov. org/dementiacampus. For more information, call our Dementia Program at 602-636-6363 or email dementiacare@hov.org. Check out more holiday tips at alz.org/ help-support. Here’s wishing you and yours a wonderful holiday and Happy New Year!

Glencroft University, ZoeLife empower successful aging

BY STEVE HELLER

Vice President and Director of ZoeLife Operations

oo often, as we grow older, the value of continuing education decreases. The idea of going back to school or learning something entirely new can seem overwhelming. However, education, no matter your age, sparks curiosity and forces us to use our most powerful asset — our mind. One misconception about learning later in life is that older adults don’t make great students. Although younger minds are quick and computational, scientists have discovered that older people are more reflective and philosophical. All this to say, younger people aren’t better students or better thinkers; they just process things differently. Glencroft University and ZoeLife is an innovative approach to senior liv-

Fall 2021

Health & Wellness

Hospice of the Valley Offers Virtual Support for All Just in time for the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, Hospice of the Valley invites you to find some peace and calm with our Community Support Groups, designed to maximize wellness and promote good self-care. All are easily accessed online via Zoom. Our Mindfulness sessions help with stress and anxiety management. Two other groups support care partners of those living with all types and all stages of dementia. There is no cost to participate and no need to RSVP. We are here to support you and your family. If you need help or have a question, call 24/7 and speak to a nurse at (602) 530-6900.

Thursday Mindfulness

Thursdays from Noon-12:30 p.m.

(In partnership with the Phoenix Art Museum)

Saturday Mindfulness

Saturdays from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Questions or help with Zoom? Contact Gill Hamilton: ghamilton@hov.org or (602) 748-3692

Class and Zoom information: hov.org/mindfulness

Mindful Connections for Dementia Caregivers Tuesdays from 10-11 a.m.

Dementia Care Partner Online Support Group Wednesdays from Noon-1 p.m.

Class and Zoom information:

hov.org, search "classes and presentations"

Visit hov.org for more information or call (602) 530-6900

Health & Wellness

Fall 2021

Your personal roadmap for successful aging.

– ASSISTED LIVING – One size does NOT fit all

ZoeCare is an individually customized Assisted Living program designed to give you a Personal Roadmap to Successful Aging.

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