March 2011 by Utah Boomer Magazine

March 2011

Boomers Reinvent Leisure and Retirement

Home | Lifestyle

Boomerang Kids Health | Fitness

Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re Going to Put That Where? The Importance of Colonoscopies

Urinary Incontinence Dollars | Sense

Prenups

Sandwiches Deli Trays Specialty Cheeses Gourmet Deli Items Gift Baskets Breads Pastries Ready-Made Meals Lunch Served Daily March 2011 Present this Coupon to Receive $5.00 off Your Next Purchase

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Born to be Wild | We aren’t our parents’ generation. We are the baby boomers: living longer, remaining engaged socially and economically, and buying bumper stickers proudly announcing intentions to spend our kids’ inheritance. We are a study in contrasts, a generation that will reinvent retirement with our weird and wonderful ideas about lifestyles, work styles, and recreational activities.

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ARTS | ENTERTAINMENT Red Butte Garden

LEISURE | TIME Cruising

Features 05 | FROM THE EDITOR 25 | THIS & THAT 32 | UPCOMING EVENTS 38 | RESOURCES

Next Month: Cosmetic Surgery | Is it right for your? Staging Your Home For Sale | Learn tips that will help sale your house Sexual Health | What happens to our sexual health as we age? Running | The Pros and Cons When Parents Die | Step by step what you can expect Summer Concerts in Utah | Red Butte Garden, USANA Ampitheatre and more

March 2011 | 3

osher l if elong lea rning ins titute

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Join the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. For Lifelong Learners aged 50 and better.

As an Osher member, you engage with interesting people, share your perspective and experiences with peers and friends, and absorb new ideas and wisdom from masterful faculty. Come see for yourself what makes Osher a dynamic, vibrant social group. For a catalog of upcoming classes and events call (801) 585-5442 or visit us online at www.osher.utah.edu

Editorial

Publisher................... Utah Boomers Magazine, LLC Managing Editor......................................... Teresa Glenn Contributing Writers.......................... Vickie Winterton

Elizabeth Joy, MD

Lori Maness

Linda Vernon Scholl

Robert K. Dellenbach Photography........................................ Dennis Drenden

shutterstock.com

Distribution................................................................. Online Advertising Sales Traci Wood 801.201.5087

Cover Photo Mark Crim

Spring is my favorite season. There is something about this time of year that makes everything seem possible. I hope thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s true, because we at Utah Boomers Magazine are faced with a new challenge, and with Spring being a time of rebirth are encouraged that we will, indeed, rise to the challenge. As Winston Churchill said â&#x20AC;&#x153;kites rise highest against the wind, not with itâ&#x20AC;?. With March being kite flying season, this quote seems apropos. If you are a regular reader, you have noticed that our magazine is no longer in the racks where you normally find it. Beginning with this issue (March), we will be publishing online only. Hopefully, as the economy improves, we can go back to printing and distributing it in hard copy format. In the meantime, you will find the content quality to be as great as before. All of our contributors have believe in the value of this publication and the need to present important information to you, a Utah baby boomer. I want to thank everyone who has emailed us and called us. As always, we encourage feedback, suggestions, or contributions. We also ask that you spread the word that the magazine can be found online.

Utah Boomers Magazine is published monthly for the baby boomer population of Utah. The information contained in this publication may be contributed by independent writers and does not necessarily reflect the views of Utah Boomers management. Copying or electronic distribution of any content within this publication is strictly prohibited without the written permission of Baby Boomers Magazine and the author. For reprint permission, editorial submissions or comments email teresa.glenn@utboomer.com.

So, get out and enjoy the Spring. Go visit Red Butte garden, and see the remarkable site of the earth bringing forth a new beginning. Fly a kite and marvel at the soaring color above you. Do whatever makes you feel that anything is possible. Until next month,

Questions and suggestions: info@utboomer.com

March 2011 | 5

boomerang \Boom”er*ang\, v : return to the initial position from where it came; like a boomerang Your nest was empty. The kids went of to college, got married, began building their own lives. Then, something went wrong. College graduates couldn’t find jobs that could afford them paying off college debt, let alone allowing them to live on their own. Married children became separated, or divorced and let’s face it, maintaining two households, even on two incomes is impossible. Layoffs meant unemployment benefits—too little for independence. The reasons are as varied and as plentiful as the kids moving home. Grown children, boomerangers, are moving home in record numbers. According to a recent survey by the Pew Research Center 13 percent of parents with grown children say one of their adult sons or daughters has moved back home in the past year and, a whopping 85% of college seniors planned to move back home with their parents after graduation last May, according to a poll by Twentysomething Inc., a marketing and research firm based in Philadelphia. That rate has steadily risen from 67% in 2006. We are, in part, responsible for this huge wave of boomerangs. We have raised a generation of children with entitlements. They expect to live the life of ease we have provided them and are quick to move back to the lifestyle we have built. Having your children (and possibly grandchildren) move home can be a joyful experience. It can also drive you crazy: Your 24 year old college graduate wants to hook his WII up to

your big screen TV. Before you know it, your television viewing room becomes his playroom, with soda cans, chip bags, and NFL throws in your carefully planned room. You find yourself relegated to your bedroom for movie viewing. Your daughter is separated and has moved home with your grandchild. All of a sudden, there are toys and other toddler accoutrements scattered throughout, creating tripping hazards and leaving you with the hope that nobody drops by without a warning phone call. Your son has gone snowboarding and came home exhausted. He dumps his equipment in the entry way of you house. “I’ll pick it up after I nap”, he says. It stays there for days. What’s happened to your neat and ordered life?

Making it Work Before your adult child moves in, it is important to have an open dialog about the scope of expectations on both sides. There are many issues to consider and it is best to think about them and resolve the issues before they move in rather than having them cause contention as you go along.

Physical Boundaries Your offspring need to be made aware that they are not your dependents, nor are they your guests. They are adults and need to respect that your house is no longer their playground and your

garage is not their storage facility—and no, your son cannot put his lucky duct-taped Barcalounger in your family room.

Determine in advance if you will do all of the household laundry or if they will be responsible for their own.

Be specific about what room is theirs and what you expect from them in maintaining the space. Encourage them to part with the items they don’t need or to rent a storage facility if their attachments are stronger than their wallet.

Entertaining

This may seem harsh, especially when your child is emotionally vulnerable from the event that brought them home, but it’s better than keeping your frustrations bottled up until they explode.

Financial Obligations When your kids move home it can put a financial strain on the household budget. Obviously, the reason they have moved home is because they can’t make it on the “outside” financially. Still, it is important for them to learn how much it costs to run a household. You should sit down with them and work out an arrangement for their financial contribution. You are not doing them any favors by allowing them to live with you for free. It is important they start learning to budget their money. Come up with an amount that your new room-mate can afford, but be realistic and don’t go easy. It’s expensive in the real world. If you don’t need the money, some parents will choose to put the money aside and give it back to the child when he/she is finally able to move out on their own. If your offspring can’t pay rent, then let them pay for the utilities they use most, including the internet and cable TV. What about groceries and personal hygiene items? You can’t but have helped noticed that your grocery bill was significantly less when your nest was empty. If your son or daughter has moved home with children of their own, is it your responsibility to purchase diapers, formula, sugared cereal or expensive needs? Also, with grandkids, comes the issue of babysitting. Let your son or daughter know, in advance, how much of your time you are willing to commit to tending the kids.

Division of Household Chores Gone are the days when your child did chores for an allowance. Like any roommate situation, your adult child should assume his share of the household chores. Don’t wait until it becomes an argument. Establish which rooms or tasks you child should be responsible for. Let them know the standard by which you want it kept clean. Do not clean the room(s) for them no matter how tempted you are.

Most young adults have very active social lives and you really don’t want to discourage it. Determine in advance how much of their socialization will occur at your house. Will friends be hanging out at your place? Will they be eating your groceries and If your offspring is sexually active and you do not approve, let them know up front that sleep-overs are not permitted. It would be very uncomfortable for all involved if there is an unexpected guest at breakfast.

Pets An acquaintance has recently had his two adult children move home. With them came three dogs. These are not small dogs; two are labradors and one a huge dog of unknown breed. The last time I saw this person, he was at the store purchasing the largest bag of dog food they sold. I asked how long the bag would last and he said one week. That is a quite an expense. Establish in advance whether you want to share in the responsibility of caring and feeding pets that are not your own.

Personal Habits Your son went off to college and picked up a few bad habits. Smoking, drinking or other habits are issues that need to be discussed. If you are a non-smoker, do you want your son to smoke in your house or yard? Can he keep beer in your fridge and drink it on the premises?

Goals Set goals. Unless you are willing to have them for the rest of their lives, you need to set goals that will allow for a successful transition into the real world. A contract will spell out your expectations and give you control of the situation. Discuss all of the issues that have been raised in this article and be specific. Discuss the content of the contract and make sure that all involved are willing to comply. Make sure there are consequences for noncompliance. After all, children know all the ways one can manipulate a parent. You will want to back down on occasion. They are your children. But, it is important for their success in the real world, that you don’t. Reference http://www.newyorklife.com/nyl/v/index.jsp?contentId=13762&vgnextoid=d0bd47bb939 d2210a2b3019d221024301cacRCRD Boomerang Kids Contract; Agreement for Adult Children Living at Home. Establish Clear Rules. www.BoomerangKidsHelp.com

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YOU’RE GOING TO PUT THAT

WHERE?

Let’s face it. No one looks forward to getting a colonoscopy. But most people who have one will be the first to tell you it’s not the colonoscopy itself that’s the problem. It’s the anticipation of the procedure and the preparation involved. A recent study conducted by the Colon Cancer Alliance shows many Americans ages 50 and older ignore recommendations to get a routine screening colonoscopy because they fear the procedure. Yet the reluctance to have a colonoscopy could lead to something far worse than some slight discomfort. “Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States,” says Randall Burt, M.D., a gastroenterologist and senior director of Prevention and Outreach at Huntsman Cancer

Institute. “By putting off or avoiding a colonoscopy, people are putting their lives at risk.” Burt says most patients tend to dread a colonoscopy, yet are surprised after they have one. “If I had a dime for every time I hear a patient say, ‘That wasn’t so bad,’ I would be a rich man.” The Colon Cancer Alliance study supports Burt’s sentiment. The study shows of those who had undergone a colonoscopy, half say the actual procedure was the easiest part. “The bowel preparation needed for a colonoscopy isn’t pleasant, but it’s not hard to do,” says Burt. “It’s just a few hours of some mild discomfort but in the long run, it pales in comparison to undergoing treatment for colon cancer.”

I wish I could introduce a colon cancer patient to anyone who fears a colonoscopy. I think it would change their mind about screening, very quickly. -Randall Burt, MD You can think of the bowel prep as a “cleanse.” The evening before a procedure, patients must drink a solution that empties the bowels. This enables doctors to clearly see the colon. Patients usually need to stick close to home during the preparation, as they will need to use the bathroom frequently. Once the preparation begins, patients are not allowed to eat and may only consume clear liquids.

It’s not clear what causes colon cancer but scientists know there are some types of this disease that can run in families. If you have a family history of colon cancer, doctors recommend routine screening as well as genetic testing for particular colon cancer syndromes. By testing for these cancer-causing genes, doctors can be more aggressive about screening for cancer, thereby preventing the disease in patients who are at risk.

During the procedure, most patients receive conscious sedation which uses medications that minimize pain. Patients may be able to speak and respond to questions while sedated, but seldom experience any discomfort. Typically, they have no memory of the actual procedure.

In addition to a family history of colon cancer, there are other risk factors.

During a colonoscopy, doctors use a tiny flexible tube called a colonoscope that is guided through the colon. A tiny camera on the end of the tube allows doctors to look at the inner lining of the large intestine. They can see abnormalities such as polyps (precancerous growths) or tumors. Doctors can take tissue samples (biopsies) to test for the presence of cancer or remove polyps which can prevent cancer from forming. The American Cancer Society says regular screening is the best and most effective way to find colorectal cancer early, when it’s most likely to be curable. For people at normal risk, screening should begin at age 50 for both men and women. If no abnormalities are found, a colonoscopy should be repeated every 10 years. Screening may be more frequent or begin at a younger age for those at a higher risk for developing colon cancer, or for those who have had previous abnormal colonoscopy results. A person’s health care provider can offer the best recommendations on colon cancer screening based on family history and personal health history.

•

Age—most people with colon cancer are 50 or older, though the disease can occur in young people • Inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn’s disease • A diet that is low in fiber and high in fat • Race—African Americas and Jews of Eastern European descent (Ashkenazi) have higher risk • A sedentary lifestyle • Obesity • Smoking • Heavy alcohol use • Diabetes “I wish everyone would talk to their doctor about colon cancer,” says Burt. “This is one of the easiest forms of cancer to prevent, but it’s one of the most difficult to treat. Colon cancer is a devastating disease and the treatments are not easy. I wish I could introduce a colon cancer patient to anyone who fears a colonoscopy. I think it would change their mind about screening, very quickly. A couple of hours of bowel prep for a colonoscopy is nothing compared to chemotherapy, surgery, and the misery of living with this devastating disease.”

Symptoms of colon cancer may include the following: • • • • • •

A change in bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation A change in the consistency of the stool Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool Persistent stomach aches, cramps, or gas A feeling that the bowel doesn’t empty completely Unexplained weight loss

Kathy Wilets is a communications and public affairs associate for Huntsman Cancer Institute (HCI) at the University of Utah. Before joining HCI, she worked in television news, producing the daily “Healthy Living” segment for KUTV.

March 2011 | 9

Jan Baker, APRN

Oh No! There’s a long line in the ladies room! If you’ve ever turned down the opportunity to go to a basketball game or concert because you’re worried you’ll be caught in the long bathroom lines and not be able to hold it, you’re not alone. Urinary incontinence is a common problem affecting 13 million people in the United States. The problem affects men and women, young and old, but it’s most common in women. In fact, one in four women age 18 and older experience urinary incontinence.

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rinary incontinence can be devastating because it affects so many areas of life— from being able to exercise, to enjoying sexual intimacy, to even laughing at a joke. More than 70 percent of women don’t seek treatment because they are either embarrassed or have heard “it’s just a part of getting older.” Although urinary incontinence is more common in women after menopause it is NOT considered a normal part of aging. As a nurse practitioner who specializes in urology, I’ve seen a lot of women who’ve silently suffered for years before they’ve sought help. If I have one message for people with this problem it’s “you’re not alone!” Don’t be embarrassed to seek help. The first step is to discuss this problem with a health care provider. Patients may be asked to keep a bladder diary, which is a record bladder activity. The diary notes the times a patient urinates and the amounts of urine produced any leakage experienced and what it was associated with; a physical activity or urgency. Many times urinary incontinence can resolve completely by making a few simple changes in the type and amount of fluid intake and how often a person urinates.

women because of the unpredictable nature of the leakage and the leakage of larger amounts of urine can cause embarrassing accidents in public. To manage the problem, many women urinate more frequently or will reduce their fluid intake leading to dehydration. Both of these management techniques are not healthy and urinating frequently can be even more disruptive to a woman’s life.

Mixed Incontinence Many women who experience urinary incontinence have a combination of both stress and urge incontinence. This is called mixed incontinence. Usually one of the leakages is more of a problem but treatment needs to focus on both types of the leakage to resolve the incontinence problem. The body stores urine in the bladder, a ballon-like organ. The bladder connects to the

During an evaluation, the healthcare provider will check the pelvic floor muscle. They may also order a urine check to monitor for an infection, which can often cause incontinence. A health care provider will be able to assess what options will work best for individual patients. Treatments may involve medication, surgery, or just simple exercise or lifestyle modifications.

Types of Incontinence

urethra; the tube through with urine leaves the body. During urination, the muscles in the

Three of the most common types of incontinence are stress incontinence, urge incontinence, and a combination of both.

wall of the bladder contract which pushes urine out of the bladder and into the urethra. At

Stress Incontinence

hold or release urine.

Urinary incontinence can occur if the muscles in the urethra and the pelvis are not strong enough to hold back urine during such activities such as coughing or sneezing. This type of leakage is called stress incontinence and is the most common type of leakage a woman experiences. Risk factors include pregnancy, childbirth and obesity.

Urge Incontinence Urinary incontinence can also occur because the muscle in the bladder is “overactive”. The bladder wants to push urine out of the bladder before you have found a bathroom. This type of leakage is called urge incontinence. Although less common than stress incontinence, it tends to be more devastating to

the same time the muscles in the urethra relax to let the urine pass to empty the urine into the toilet. Incontinence occurs because of problems with the muscles and nerves that help to

Treatments for Incontinence Kegel exercise—Both types of incontinence respond to Kegel exercises. Unfortunately, contracting this muscle (pelvic floor muscle or Kegel) can be difficult if it is weakened. More than 30% of women are unable to contract this muscle correctly, so it is important to receive feedback from a health care provider during an exam. If patients continue to have difficulty with improving the muscle strength, they can be referred to a special physical therapist that works with pelvic muscle weakness. Bladder diary—Most women with either type of incontinence will benefit from completing a bladder diary to receive feedback March 2011 | 11

on their fluid intake and urination patterns. Pessary—If basic treatments do not help and patients experience leakage associated with coughing, sneezing and physical activity, they could consider being fit for a vaginal device that helps support the urethra and prevent leakage. The device is called a pessary. Medications—There are numerous medications available that work by making the chemical needed for a bladder contraction less available in the body. Medications are effective and can reduce urinary leakage from 55 -83%, but more than 25% of patients stop taking these medication because of side effects such as dry mouth and constipation.

cations or for those who do not receive any benefit from medications. Neuromodulation, also called InterStim, is a surgical implant of a wire into the sacral nerves to deliver electrical impulses that calm the overactive bladder muscle. Although neuromodulation can be effective, it is not for everyone as the therapy is expensive and involves surgery. Regardless of the type of incontinence, treatments are available. For more information about urinary incontinence you can visit the University of Utah Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology web page at http://healthcare.utah.edu/womenshealth/ urogynecology.php. Jan Baker received her nurse practitioner at degree at the University of

Surgery • The most common type of surgery is commonly referred to as a “sling” surgery. The surgery is done on an outpatient basis and has a success rate of 70-80% at 5 years. • Another treatment, sacral neuromodulation, is more invasive but is effective for patients who cannot tolerate medi-

Utah where works at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. She is involved in research and treats patients with urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse and recurrent urinary tract infections. She has worked at the University of Utah for more than 20 years and has been a nurse for more than 30 years.

What Are Kegel Exercises? Kegel exercises help strengthen muscles that control the bladder. They are used to improve muscles of the pelvic floor. These exercises can be done any time, any place.You can even do them while sitting at a desk, on a couch, or driving in a car. • To locate the Kegel muscles, the next time you are urinating, try stopping the flow of urine without using stomach, leg or buttocks muscles. When you succeed, you have located the correct muscles. • Contract these muscles (not while urinating) and hold the contraction for five seconds, then relax for five seconds. Work your way up to holding the contraction longer, for up to 10 seconds at a time and relaxing for 10 seconds. • Try to do at least three sets of 10 repetitions a day.

“It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade.” -Charles Dickens

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We aren’t our parents’ generation. We are the baby boomers: living longer, remaining engaged socially and economically, and buying bumper stickers proudly announcing intentions to spend our kids’ inheritance. We are a study in contrasts, a generation that will reinvent retirement with our weird and wonderful ideas about lifestyles, work styles, and recreational activities. The ironies of our generation are the challenges we’ve presented to the U.S. economy from our beginnings. In the early years 1950s and early 1960s more schools were needed to accommodate our progression from kindergarten to high school. The transition to adulthood meant housing shortages and job competition, and now, as we enter the winter of our lives, we’re more concerned about property taxes

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than we are about the quality of schools we required in the sprawling suburbia we created. Do we care? Yes and no. While most of us may want to spend our final years free from the responsibilities of work and obligation, our major ambition seems to border on ignoring the inevitable consequences of advancing years. We will never ever consider ourselves old. We are ageless and not your cookie cutter kind of generation. We were born to be wild. The following three stories illustrate ways we’ve found to reinvent.

Motorcycle Mania Okay. Be honest. Who doesn’t get that wistful feeling every time a motorcycle streams past your vault of reconditioned air? The rider easing ahead on a long stretch of highway bisecting big sky country; the passenger leaning on the backrest with one hand holding onto the rider’s waist and the other tapping a shoulder in silent communication meaning “Look at this.” “The world becomes an open road,” said Chelise Pannunzio. “I turn on my iPod, lean back, and look at the scenery. It doesn’t get much better.” Chelise and her husband Dan retired in 2008, jumping from their jobs at a desk—he at Boing—and on the floor— she a nurse at Primary Children’s Hospital—and onto the shared seat of a Harley Davidson. He drives. She rides, although this spring they may occasionally trade places once she finishes a motorcycle-training course. During the past nearly three years, they have cruised by the waters of Lake Powell and the red rocks of Moab, and through the space separating St. George from their home in Sandy. They ride locally on the weekends and anticipate travel destinations stretching into New Mexico, Wyoming, Oregon, and in every direction beyond. Maybe a little romanticized? Perhaps, but it’s a life transition Chelise calls “really fun” and, in its own way, edifying. “There are just all kinds of people we meet,” she said. “And the scenery? It’s just so different when you’re seeing from the backseat of a Harley.” Their Harley is the Electra Glide model, a long-haul touring bike

of all motorcycle rallies that attracts thousands upon thousands of riders for a week of partying and people watching. “Truly amazing,” Chelise said. They dine in the mom and pop restaurants, washing down road dust feasting on thick, hot French fries, hand patted burgers, and berry pie tasting fresh from the vine. They wear black leather jackets, boots, and gloves, and helmets for protection and out of respect for the wishes of their daughter. “She tells us ‘please be careful,’” Chelise said. “We are.” When home, Chelise occasionally fills in at the hospital. They visit friends and family and do the other stuff of retired life, like read books and garden. Their enthusiasm for the open road, however, tops most interests—except, perhaps, spoiling their grandkids— and meets their long-held dreams to embrace the road. “We always talked about getting a motorcycle,” Chelise said. “I was all for it. I always wanted to ride a Harley.”

Trail Blazing He said turning 50 was nothing more than worsening knees, thinning hair and thickening waist, and, maybe, a not so practiced at swinging his ice axe to carve a path in the spring snow he so loved to hike. But, as his wife, I could see differently. His feet dragged on our evening dog walks. He drove shoulders hunched behind the wheel of our Subaru and the evenings he once spent planning real adventures turned into video games on the computer taking on roles of explorer or warrior. Our conversations took on nasty, sparring tones and we talked of separation. “If you want a separation, OK,” he blurted in late winter as we slogged our dogs through a sloppy, wet snowfall. “I’m going to hike the Pacific Crest Trail.” “Fine,” I answered, not truly understanding the breath of those menacing words. “Fine. I’ll even help you pack.” The Pacific Crest Trail – or PCT – is a 2600-mile hike (take or give a few miles depending on section closures) following the Pacific coast from the northern border of Mexico at California to the southern border of Washington at Canada. The trail traverses some of the most scenic wonderlands in North America and – not coincidentally – attracts some of the most eccentric characters intent on putting one foot in front of the other for five months running.

with a six-gallon fuel tank and a 2-1-2 exhaust (less engine heat transmitted to the rider and passenger). The bike introduced them to the 70th annual Sturgis (S.D.) Motorcycle Rally, the granddaddy

Conquering the PCT can take months of preplanning deciding the food, clothing, and gear to place in a pack that weighs nearly half of its carrier. My husband, an experienced hiker, put the trip

March 2011 | 15

funds. During the first year, they traveled extensively, visiting many of the places from their dream bucket of destinations. Year two, they narrowed their choices to a favorite stop experienced for the first time in their lives during their initial 12 months of wander lust. “Yellowstone kept coming to the top of our list,” Flavia said. “We decided to come back knowing the only way we could stay would be to work there.” The Dashfields are members of the Yellowstone Association, an alliance that helped them secure jobs at two of the many bookstores the nonprofit group operates in the park. In May 2010, once accepting the coveted positions, they drove west for jobs lasting from Memorial Day through Labor Day rush, living out of their roomy trailer parked in an area reserved for the park’s seasonal employees. together in less than a month, took a leave from work, packed without my help, and put our marriage on hold. People hiking the PCT take on a trail name and his became “Patch” to describe the life he was trying to piece together. The PCT, as my husband can testify, takes on the shape of the day-to-day grind. Long days on the trail – up to 35 miles a day – are punctuated by events: trips into towns to gorge on ice cream and pancakes, talking trail with other hikers, and reaching dinners and accommodations hosted by PCT trail angels. The scenery is both majestic humbling. About half the 300 or so people starting the trail each year finish. Blisters the size of half dollars and other physical ailments shake a few from the trail, but most drop out from mental strain. The trail begins to wear. My husband hiked the entire length, arriving back to Salt Lake City with one week to spare before returning to work. He bought a car, rented an apartment, and we’re getting along better than we have in years. He will move back when the lease expires. The PCT was a lifesaver. He had a grand adventure and I learned a thing or two about myself in his absence. He also walks much taller these days and instead of playing video games, we’re planning an adventure to take together.

Destination Road Flavia and Alex Dashfield left their jobs five years ago hoping to discover a world outside their native New Jersey without dipping into retirement savings. The plan wasn’t as difficult or farfetched as it might seem, said Flavia, who for a long time had her sights on going west. “It was a matter of making up or minds and doing it,” she said. The Dashfields sold their home and invested some of the proceeds into a hard shell camping trailer and the rest into road

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Their daily schedule was close to a modern work routine. They woke at the sound of an alarm clock, dressed for work, ate breakfast and packed lunches, jumped in their car, drove to work, and put in their hours. The evening was a return to the trailer for dinner, dishes, laundry, and chatting with the neighbors. The jobs, however, combined with their destination, made all the difference from the usual 9 to 5, Flavia said. The Dashfields met people in the bookstores from all over the world and befriended fellow seasonal workers relishing the same retirement outlook. Yes, there were the universal nuances like traffic on the way to work, but for them nothing compared to New Jersey turnpike conditions. In Yellowstone, traffic lines inside the park often mean a wolf, bear, elk, or bison blocking the road and getting its picture snapped by dozens of adoring tourists. On weekends, the couple caught up on personal errands and enjoyed a 2.2-million acre backyard that didn’t require fertilizing, mowing, and weeding, and they don’t have to clean up after the animals. They routinely saw black bears, grizzly bears, tree martins, badgers, wolves, elk and bison and found the rocky promontory and sandy beach at Yellowstone Lake reminiscent of a California coastline. “I’m not sure we’d like to stay for the winter, but during the summer it’s been a marvelous place to live,” she said. “And having done this once, we certainly want to do it again as long as we can.” Chris Fraizer recently passed the 25-year mark, at least as the number of years applies to this boomer's residency in Salt Lake City, Utah. Fraizer could never return to her Midwest roots once discovering the scope and space of the Western outdoors. She lives and works in the city, although her heart belongs to the desert and alpine tundras.

Spring is nature’s way of saying, “Let’s party!” ~Robin Williams The number of people over the age of 65 is rising sharply

Thirty-five years ago, it was the fantasy of millions of teenage boys. From now on, it will be a museum piece.

— from about 31 million (12.6 percent of the population)

The red swimsuit Farrah Fawcett wore in an iconic 1976 poster, along with other items from her career, will be presented Wednesday to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History in Washington by her longtime partner Ryan O’Neal.

population) in 2025. According to the AAMC, those between

www.cnn.com

cally. Currently, there are about 800,000 doctors practicing in

in 1990, to a projected 64 million or so (17.9 percent of the

65 and 74 use health care services at a rate more than twice that of those under 65. The pool of working physicians is about to decline dramati-

the United States. And those doctors are getting older and will be retiring in massive numbers. The AAMC estimates that

Make-up Foundation--How long does it last? Liquid foundations are best used in three to six months, while cream foundations maintain their quality for four to six months. If your foundation is in a wide-mouthed jar, it can be exposed to more airborne bacteria and may need to be replaced sooner. If you notice any change in the color or odor of your makeup, toss it. Keep in mind that you really shouldn’t use any foundation if you’ve had it for more than a year. http://www.mnn.com/lifestyle/natural-beauty-fashion/ photos/how-long-does-makeup-last/foundation

approximately 250,000 physicians will retire within the next ten years — nearly one-third of all physicians. In other words, in the next 10-15 years, the U.S. will have many more patients, a greater percentage of whom will need more medical care. Without more new physicians entering the workforce than there are older physician retiring, there will be fewer doctors to care for all those patients. www.remappingdebate.org/article/warnings-doctorshortage-go-unheeded

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“Who will care for my loved ones when I’m gone?” is something every parent worries about. But for parents of special needs children, this worry can be even more acute.

may need it on a more limited scale. On the other hand, if your child is not self-sufficient, you’ll need to put into place a comprehensive plan for their future care.

For families of special needs children, planning for the future involves thinking about a lifetime of care like: where the child will live, if they will have adequate financial resources to support themselves, and who will be involved in their day-to-day care. Answering questions like these requires a comprehensive planning process called Future Care (or Special Needs) Planning.

If your child is particularly young, you might not yet have an idea of whether your child will be self-sufficient as an adult. The best course is to make a plan now, building in contingencies to deal with the “what if ” scenarios. Whether your child is a minor or an adult, a plan for their future care may include a Special Needs Trust, also called a Supplemental Needs Trust.

Identify the Need for Future Care Planning If your child is an adult with disabilities, you probably have a pretty good idea of both your child’s abilities and what kind of assistance they will need. If your child is able to support himself (including housing, health insurance, and basic needs), you may not need to engage in Future Care Planning, or you

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What Is a Special Needs Trust? Public benefit programs, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, and Section 8 housing assistance, can provide basic necessities for persons with disabilities. But these benefits are “means-tested,” which means that a person is not eligible to receive these benefits if their income and assets are above certain limits.

Once a child turns 18, his or her income will be used to determine eligibility for these benefits. Too much income or too many assets will lead to the reduction or loss of these important benefits. But, funds paid into a properly drafted Special Needs Trust will not be counted as income or an asset, allowing the disabled individual to continue to receive public benefits. The funds in the Special Needs Trust are used to pay for things beyond the basic needs of housing, food, and medical care (such as schooling, vacations, home companions, electronics, custom wheelchair, or massage therapy), often resulting in a greatly improved quality of life.

When your child reaches age 18, you will no longer be entitled to make decisions about your child’s personal care or finances unless you petition a judge to become your child’s legal guardian and/or conservator. Although your child might not be capable of making decisions about their well-being at age 18, the law presumes that your child is capable.

Kinds of Special Needs Trusts

Likewise, there are certain alternatives to Guardianship that may be sufficient. If your child has the ability to make their own decisions, they can empower you to make health care and financial decisions by signing the appropriate legal documents.

There are basically two types of Special Needs Trusts: 1) “First Party” Special Needs Trusts, and 2) “Third Party” Special Needs Trusts. A First Party Special Needs Trust (also called a “Self-settled” or “Self-created” Special Needs Trust) is a trust established with assets that belong to the person with disabilities. Typically, these assets come in the form of personal injury settlements or judgments, inheritances, lump sum Social Security payments, or other funds belonging directly to the person with disabilities. A First Party Special Needs Trust must be established by the beneficiary’s parent, grandparent, legal guardian, or by a court. These trusts only work if they specifically provide that upon the trust beneficiary’s death, the remaining trust assets must first be used to repay the State of Utah, up to the amount of the Medicaid benefits provided to the beneficiary. For this reason, such trusts are sometimes referred to as “payback” trusts. Third Party Special Needs Trusts are established with the assets of someone other than the disabled person (a third party), such as a parent, grandparent, sibling, or a concerned friend. For example, relatives or friends of the disabled individual can make a gift by adding to the trust instead of making an outright gift directly to the individual. Or parents can purchase life insurance to provide for their special needs children and make the life insurance proceeds payable to the trust. Unlike a First Party Special Needs Trust, there is no requirement that the State be repaid upon the death of the beneficiary. Consider Adult Guardianship/Conservatorship and Alternatives at Age 18

Because a full Guardianship takes away your child’s right to make important decisions, the decision to petition for Guardianship of your child at age 18 should not be automatic. If your child is capable of making some decisions, but not others, a limited Guardianship may be more appropriate.

Other Considerations Special Needs Planning goes well beyond Special Needs Trusts and Guardianships, however. As the parent of a special needs child, one of the most important things you can do in preparing for your child’s future care is put together a “Life Care Guide” (also known as a “Letter of Intent.”) In this guide, you should include information about your child’s medications, doctors, therapists, individual education plan (IEP), social activities, housing, and capacity to attend to their needs on their own. This guide can be written or recorded, but it should be updated throughout your child’s life, to be eventually given to your child’s future caregiver. When considering a Special Needs Trust or Guardianship for your child, you really need to work with a lawyer who dedicates a significant portion of his or her practice to this specialized area of estate planning. Remember, the people who benefit if you take the time and thought to create a plan are the people you love most—your children. Attorney RobRoy Platt limits his practice to estate planning, asset protection, and elder law. He is the founding chair of the Utah State Bar Elder Law Section, and is an active member of the Bar’s Estate Planning Section, the Utah Valley Estate Planning Council, and the National Planned Giving Council. RobRoy welcomes your questions—you may reach him at RPlatt@PlattLawPC.com or (801) 769-1313.

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Red Butte Garden It’s spring fever. That is what the name of it is. And when you’ve got it, you want - oh, you don’t quite know what it is you do want, but it just fairly makes your heart ache, you want it so! -Mark Twain There is nothing like walking through your garden and seeing the promise of crocus, tulips, and daffodils in the form of tiny little green heads poking through the soil. They bring with them a lust for spring and nature’s rebirth. At the foot of the Wasatch mountains is as beautiful garden as you’ll ever see. Red Butte Garden. Everywhere you walk are varied species of plants and flowers. Adults and children alike love the Garden—Adults enjoy the plantings and easy walking and kids love the freedom of

outdoors. There are lots of birds and small critters in the Garden—robins, quail, kestrel, cooper’s hawks, finch, rabbits, and squirrels. This month they are highlighting mini blubs such as snowdrops, crocus, and squill. In April, you don’t want to miss the spectular site of 250,000 blubs in bloom. “We call this time frame Bulbs and Blooms, says Bryn Ramjoue, Communications Director for Red Butte Garden, “The daffodils create fields of yellow throughout the garden. The color and sight is not to be missed. Also blooming are crab apple trees/red bud and plenty of other budding and early blooming trees, shrubs and plants. Red Butte Garden is the place to see spring come to life.” While stunning, Red Butte Garden is more than just a pretty face. “Gardeners can call our horticulture staff with questions, says Ramjoue, “And on May 6 and 7 we gather our staff and

gardening societies together at our annual plant sale so we can answer questions about landscape, best plants for shade, high altitude, soil types. The plant sale is a benefit for the Garden and great place to get advice and plants.” This month they offer a Vegetable Gardening Basics among other garden-related classes in the spring.

All The Senses Site, smell, touch are satisfied by the garden itself. Ah, but what about sound. Not to worry. They have that covered as well. Nestled in the garden is a beautiful amphitheatre where you can take a blanket, a picnic and a bottle of wine and listen to a great lineup of concerts. The 2010 lineup included such artists as Chicago, Joan Baez, The Doobie Brothers, Sheryl Crow and Willie Nelson. The 2011 lineup will be announced later, and mums the word. When asked, they did say they could tell Utah Boomers about a concert that might be of interest to our readers. The Moody Blues will perform on Sunday, May 29th. Tickets go on sale to Garden members on April 18th at 9 am. Imagine sitting on a blanket amongst the beauty of the garden, sipping wine and listening to Nights In White Satin, taking you back to 1967. Can you just feel the stress leaving you?

Free admission to events and programs such as: • Garden lectures and Monday Family Nights • Discounts on concert tickets and horticulture workshops • Lifelong learning classes, kids programs, and tours • Advance notice for the Summer Outdoor Concert Series • Ticket purchasing privileges for the Summer )utdoor Concert Series • 10% discount at the Garden Gift Shop • Free admission to our Members Only plant sale dates • Discounts at participating nurseries and merchants • Free admission to other gardens across the country • Free subscription to the Garden Newsletter, Calendar, Kids Calendar and other Garden printed materials.

Volunteer Opportunities As we have said in the past, Boomers love to volunteer, and Red Butte Garden has volunteer opportunities. Whether you enjoy gardening, teaching, conservation, special events, or are someone who enjoys doing a little bit of everything, there are numerous opportunities for you to become involved with Red Butte Garden. You will gain hands-on experience, meet new friends with similar passions for plants and the community. All Volunteers commit to a minimum of 20 hours per year.

Membership has it’s Advantages For a small annual fee, you can become a member of Red Butte Garden, and the benefits far outweigh the cost. Members receive the following: •

12 months of free admission

RSVP Program The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), a program of Salt Lake County Aging Services and the Corporation for National and Community Service, is a volunteer program for people age 55 and older and has been making a difference throughout Salt Lake County for the past 35 years. Red Butte Garden is one of over 70 RSVP volunteer sites. Volunteers who are at least 55 years old are welcome and encouraged to enroll as RSVP volunteers. RSVP benefits include: travel reimbursement assistance if needed, invitations to recognition events, and supplemental accident and liability insurance at no cost to the volunteer. If volunteers would like additional information about RSVP or to enroll in the program they can call 468-2490 and a RSVP representative will be happy to assist them.

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CRUISING

Sure, there are pros and cons to all types of travel, but cruising has become a popular option for a number of reasons. Cruise vacations are convenient, cost-effective, family-oriented or couple-oriented, and intrinsically safe. With multiple activities, dining options, itineraries, and amenities to suit any passenger from spa-lovers to adventure-seekers to sun worshipers, no vacation will feel more individualized than a cruise. One of the most tangible benefits of a cruise vacation is the nearly all-inclusive cost. Though shore excursions and other amenities are not included in the initial fare, the price of a cruise does cover lodging, meals, and a wide variety of entertainment. If you were to purchase each of these items separately for a land-based vacation, the cost could easily be several hundred dollars greater. A benefit of with working with your local travel agency is that they offer payment plans for passengers booking well in advance, allowing even more financial convenience.

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With no other vacation can you visit different countries with the convenience of only unpacking once. Furthermore, the ship is the mode of transportation, and unless passengers opt for rental cars or scooters in ports of call, they need never pick up a set of keys or navigate foreign traffic on a cruise. With a traditional vacation, you either must endure such trials or are limited to a relatively narrow area of dining and entertainment within walking distance of your hotel. Want to work out on your vacation? No membership is required to visit a cruise shipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fitness center or join in one of the workout classes. Interested in gourmet dining? There are no lengthy waits for available tables at the dining room. Craving a late night snack? Visit the pizzeria or order room service without a hassle. Not sure what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to do today? Read over the shipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s daily newsletter for a schedule of activities without needing to browse dozens of brochures. These are only a sample of the convenience benefits offered by every cruise ship, eliminating

Private Islands One of the most exciting ports when cruising the Caribbean or the Bahamas is the day spent at the private island of the cruise line. With miles of sandy beaches, palm trees complete with hammocks and plenty of activities to pass the time.

many of the headaches of traditional land-based vacations. Still not sure a cruise vacation is right for you or do you want to make sure you are not stuck on a ship with people not in your age group? The 25-39 age groups are taking about 29% of the cruises. The 40-59 age groups take about 36% of the cruises while the 60 plus group take approximately 35% of cruises. Your local travel agent is well versed in knowing which cruises are right for you and your activity level. In fact, cruises are such successful vacations that according to Cruise Lines International Association, more than 80% of cruisers return for a second voyage—far higher than the percentage of people who choose to revisit a land-based resort or attraction. With such a success rate, cruise lines prove their benefits and continue to gain new passengers with each voyage.

These islands are owned by the cruise lines and are for the exclusive use of their guests for the day. Since there is never any more than one ship in port at a time, the islands are not crowded so you can go off and relax in your own private piece of paradise. Unlike other ports of call, the cruise line cooks and wait staff disembark and treat you to a barbeque luncheon and entertainment, island style. Many of the islands offer family activities such as rides and water play, but they also offer adult only parts of the beach where you can rent a cabana for the day and just relax with drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, and platters of food. Other water activities available for the day can include snorkeling, zip lines, volleyball, aqua cycles, catamarans and sailboats, parasailing and banana boat rides. The islands have bars, restaurants, restrooms, first aid stations, and water-sports and tour huts. All offer island shops where you can purchase souvenirs, t-shirts and other memorabilia, but unlike other ports of call, they are unobtrusive. Castaway Cay, Bahamas–Disney Cruise Line Half Moon Cay, Bahamas–Holland America Line Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas–Norwegian Cruise Line Princess Cays, Bahamas–Princess Cruises CocoCay, Bahamas–Royal Caribbean Labadee, Hispaniola–Royal Caribbean

Andrea Lemon’s passion is travel and she has been fortunate to explore many wonderful places. The travel industry is a perfect career choice because she loves to work with people. She enjoys helping clients create the perfect arrangement, whether it’s a family vacation, honeymoon, weekend getaway or a lifelong dream.

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Resources Advocacy AARP of Utah

801.561.1037 Utah Dept of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS) Phone: 801.538.3991 www.hsdaas.utah.gov/ Utah State Courts Estate Planning & Probate www.utcourts.gov/howto/wills/ Phone: 801.578.3800 Social Security Administration 1.800.772.1213 www.ssa.gov SAGE Utah Services & Advocacy for GLBTQ Elders www.glccu.com/programs/lgbtq-elders-50

Dental Services Employment Services Legal Services

Utah Legal Services.................800.662.4245

Financial Services

helpwithmyparents.org Connecting caregivers and professionals

Senior Centers

Most Senior Centers supply transportation and meals. They are open Monday through Friday, and the hours varies. Call your center for times.

Davis County

South Jordan Senior Center 10778 South Redwood Road South Jordan, UT 84095 Phone: 801.302.1222

United Way www.unitedwayucv.org/volunteer/

Salt Lake County

Sunday Anderson Westside Senior Center 868 West 900 South Salt Lake City, UT 84104 Phone: 801.538.2092

Red Butte Garden Call 801-585-5688

Columbus Senior Center 2531 South 400 East Salt Lake City, UT 84115 Phone: 801.412.3295

American Cancer Society of Utah 801.483.1500

Friendly Neighborhood Center 1992 South 200 East Salt Lake City, UT 84115 Phone: 801.468.2781

Respite Care

Medical Home Portal www.medicalhomeportal.org CHTOP

Utah State Parks Volunteer Coordinator 1594 W North Temple, 116 Salt Lake City, UT 84116 (801) 537-3445 robinwatson@utah.gov

Heritage Center 140 East Center Clearfield, UT 84015 Phone: 801. 773.7065

Healthcare Resources

Pet Services

Volunteering

Sandy Senior Center 9310 South 1300 East Sandy, UT 84094 Phone: 801.561.3265

Eddie P. Mayne Kearns Senior Center 4851 West 4715 South Salt Lake City, UT 84118 Phone: 801.965.9183

George E. Wahlen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center 500 Foothill Drive Salt Lake City, Utah 84148 Phone: 801.582.1565

Riverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bend Senior Center 300 North 1300 West Salt Lake City, UT 84116 Phone: 801.596.0208

Hurricane Senior Citizens Center 95 N 300 W Hurricane, UT 84737 435.635.2089

Golden Years Center 726 South 100 East Bountiful, UT 84010 Phone: 801.295.3479

www.centerforseniorbenefits.com

American Diabetes Association-Utah 801.363.3024

Mount Olympus Senior Center 1635 East Murray Holladay Road Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Phone: 801.274.1710

150 East 100 South Street Enterprise, UT 84725 435.878.2557

Riverton Senior Center 12891 South Redwood Road Riverton, UT 84065 Phone: 801.254.7609

Draper Senior Center 12350 South 800 East Draper, UT 84020 Phone: 801.572.6342

American Chronic Pain Association 800.533.3231

Midvale Senior Center 350 West Park Street 7610 S) Midvale, UT 84047 Phone: 801.566.6590

Autumn Glow Center 81 East Center Kaysville, UT 84037 Phone: 801.544.1235

Health, Life, Long-Term Care & Retirement Planning 801.990.2900

Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Association of Utah 801.265.1944

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Chapel Hill Training-Outreach Program chtop.org/ARCH/National-Respite-Locator. html

Harman Senior Recreation Center 4090 South 3600 West West Valley City, UT 84119 Phone: 801.965.5822 Kearns Senior Center 4850 West 4715 South Salt Lake City, UT 84118 Phone: 801.965.9183 Liberty City Center 251 East 700 South Salt Lake City, UT 84111 Phone: 801.532.5079 Magna Center 9228 West 2700 South Magna, UT 84044 Phone: 801.250.0692

Taylorsville Senior Citizen Center 4743 South Plymouth View Dr. Taylorsville, UT 84123 Phone: 801.293.8340 Tenth East Senior Center 237 South 1000 East Salt Lake City, UT 84102 Phone: 801.538.2084 West Jordan Center 8025 South 2200 West West Jordan, UT 84088 Phone: 801.561.7320

Washington County Council on Aging www.washco.utah.gov/contact The Washington County Council on Aging provides services for senior citizens 60 and older. These include classes (pottery, painting, aerobics, yoga, square dancing, and computer training) tax assistance during tax season and other services. Nutrition is a main focus of the senior centers. In-house meals are served as well as Meals on Wheels. The following centers are supported in part through the donations of those patrons who use the facilities. Gayle & Mary Aldred Senior Center 245 North 200 West St. George , UT 84770 435.634 . 5743 Washington County Senior Citizens

The Nature Conservancy in Utah www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/utah/volunteer/ Volunteer Match www.volunteermatch.org/

Utah Commission on Volunteers volunteers.utah.gov/

No More Homeless Pets in Utah 8029 South 700 East Sandy, UT 84070 801-432-2124 To include your services in this space call Traci Wood at 801.201.5087