Healthy Aging: Fall/Winter 2017

A PUBLICATION FROM MONMOUTH MEDICAL CENTER, SOUTHERN CAMPUS

HEALTHY AGING FALL/WINTER 2017

BEST CARE FOR ALL HOW TO AVOID DIABETES KEEPING ACTIVE AFTER CANCER ALAN ALDA: CONNECT WITH YOUR DOCS HealthyAging.1117.3.indd 1

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PREVENTING DIABETES DO YOU HAVE PREDIABETES? FINDING OUT WILL HELP YOU AVOID DEVELOPING THE FULL-BLOWN DISEASE.

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ovember is National Diabetes Month, and much attention is focused on the need to slow the epidemic of diabetes and prediabetes in the U.S. There are initiatives, like the American Diabetes Association’s “Stop Diabetes” campaign, that encourage people to take tests to assess their personal risk of developing prediabetes or Type 2.

Prediabetes can lead to diabetes, which can cause serious complications, including heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, blindness and amputations. Though prediabetes is a serious condition, most people who have it don’t know because they don’t experience any symptoms.

People with prediabetes and diabetes have a problem with the hormone insulin: Either their cells have become resistant to insulin or their pancreas doesn’t make enough of it. (In some patients, both conditions exist.) Insulin helps move glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream into the cells, where it’s needed for energy. When glucose can’t be processed the way it should be, it stays in the bloodstream.

To prevent prediabetes from progressing to type 2 diabetes, it’s crucial to keep blood-sugar levels as close to normal as possible. Key ways to do this include exercise (30 to 60 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week) and a healthy diet (low in fat and high in fiber). Maintaining a healthy weight is also important, and patients who smoke should quit.

If you have risk factors for prediabetes (see “Are You at Risk?” below) talk to your doctor about them. If needed, he or she can order a screening test to see whether you have prediabetes, and then recommend a plan to help you manage it and keep the disease from progressing.

ARE YOU AT RISK? You may have prediabetes if you: n Are 45 years of age or

n Are physically active

fewer than three times a week

older

n Ever had gestational

n Are overweight

diabetes (pregnancy diabetes) or gave birth to a baby weighing more than 9 pounds

n Have a family history of

type 2 diabetes

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28+

million Americans have type 2 diabetes

84

24%

of diabetics don’t know they have the disease

million Americans have prediabetes

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IN GOOD HANDS

SURGICAL STAFF CREATES A CULTURE OF QUALITY, COMPASSIONATE CARE.

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e are excited to introduce members of our new surgical staff and reacquaint you with the surgeons and services at Monmouth Medical Center, Southern Campus (MMCSC). Our surgical services range from minor procedures to complex surgeries with everything in between. And with advanced technology and equipment like high-definition video towers and PACS system X-ray imaging equipment, patients can rest assured they’re receiving the best care.

Surgical services at MMCSC are accessed in a number of ways, the first being through our Ambulatory Surgery Center, also known as Same Day Surgery. When a surgeon schedules this convenient alternative for a surgical procedure, his or her patient will undergo surgery, spend a brief time in recovery and return home to resume their recuperation—all in the same day. Advanced surgical techniques coupled with state-of-the-art technology have increasingly made ambula-

MEET OUR SURGEONS

Michael JJ. JJaronczyk, M.D. General and Minimally Invasive/Advanced Gastrointestinal/Bariatric Surgery

Jarrod P. Kaufman, K f M.D., F.A.C.S. General Surgery

Ravi Kumar Ponnappan, P M.D. William M. Schulman, Shl M.D. Orthopedic and Spine Surgery

General and Oncologic Surgery

tory surgery a viable option for more and more procedures. In fact, eye surgery, arthroscopies, biopsies and numerous other procedures are all safely performed on a same-day basis at MMCSC. Our outstanding patient satisfaction scores also prove that our patients are in the best hands possible.

Many patients are also admitted for surgery on an inpatient basis, meaning they’ll remain overnight or longer after the surgery is completed for care or observation. These patients will rest comfortably in a private room for the duration of their stay at MMCSC. As the only hospital in the region to offer all private rooms for overnight stays, we are making the difference in patient wellness, from improving healing and enhancing the patient experience to reducing infections and making patient care more individualized.

Our department of surgery is staffed by highly qualified, experienced surgeons who provide only the best care to each and every patient.

Munir Ahmed, d M M.D.

Sergey D. Grachev, G h M.D., F.A.C.S.

Andrew HHarrison, i M.D.

Thomas A. A Kedersha, Kd M.D., F.A.C.S.

Steven J. Lowry, L M.D., M

Christos Pl Plakas, k M M.D.

Emil Shakov, M.D., M D F.A.C.S., M.S., B.S.

Felix S. Shamash, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Lawrence W W. Sil Silvers, M.D.

Orthopedic Surgery

Orthopedic Surgery

General Surgery

General, Vascular and Oncologic Surgery

General and Laparobotic/MIS Surgery

General and Colon/Rectal Surgery

General and Vascular Surgery

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery

General Surgery and Peripheral Vascular Surgery

For more information on our surgical services, call 1.888.724.7123.

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A grateful couple’s story AFTER THEY BOTH BEAT CANCER, RALPH AND RACHEL COOPER REMAIN ACTIVE AND DISCOVER ‘BETTER HEALTH’ AT MMCSC

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or years, Ralph and Rachel Cooper were in search of an activity they could enjoy together.

Although they’ve been married for 66 years, oftentimes they would partake in individual hobbies such as cards and shuffleboard but nothing that got them out of the house together. That was until they discovered the Better Health Senior Membership Program through a balance class that was held in their community, Leisure Village West.

“We enjoyed the class so much, we signed up for the program so we’d know when there were similar opportunities available,” Ralph says.

“Ever since, we’ve been signing up for activities almost weekly that we wouldn’t have had access to before.

Better Health provided us with something we never had previously, and we’re so grateful to be able to take advantage of the events they offer and spend time together.”

The Better Health Program provides seniors with VIP access to social programs, health education, preventive screenings and more at no cost. Ralph and Rachel have participated in a number of these activities including: Five Wishes, which provides seniors with information on how to control the way they are treated if they become seriously ill; Improving with Age, which explores the evolution of social relationships later in life and how to optimize these relationships; and Stress &

Relaxation, which highlights the importance of successful stress management with practical and proven relaxation techniques.

“Through these programs, we’ve been able to become reacquainted with Monmouth Medical Center, Southern Campus (MMCSC) and the great services they have to offer,” says Rachel. “We’re especially impressed with the access to impressive physicians like Dr. Jessica Israel and her advance practice nurse, Melanie Vernacchia, through the Geriatrics Institute. They’ve both made themselves available to Ralph and me on several occasions, even when we didn’t have an appointment. It truly demonstrates the level of compassion and care this hospital offers.”

As cancer survivors, Ralph and Rachel recognize and appreciate great

health care institutions when they see them, and that’s what they believe MMCSC to be. They serve as true advocates for not only the Better Health Program but for the hospital as a whole.

“We truly admire what’s been done at MMCSC over the past few years and, if the need arises, we always ask to be taken to this hospital over others in the area,” Ralph says. “We’ve never had a bad experience here— from the private rooms to help with recovery, to the secure and cautious environment to make us feel safe, to the enlightening and entertaining educational opportunities—we’re filled with only good feelings when we think of MMCSC. We would, without a doubt, recommend this hospital to friends and family for both emergency and social situations.”

To learn more about the Better Health Program, call 1.888.726.2362.

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From left: Frank J. Vozos, M.D., FACS, executive vice president, RWJBarnabas Health and chief executive, Monmouth Medical Center, Southern Campus; Alan Alda; Jessica L. Israel, M.D., chair of Geriatrics, RWJBarnabas Health and medical director, James and Sharon Maida Geriatrics Institute at Monmouth Medical Center, Southern Campus; Michael Mimoso, president and chief executive officer, Community Medical Center; Gary Lotano, trustee, RWJBarnabas Health and Community Medical Center; and Tom Biga, president of RWJBarnabas Health Hospital Division.

STAYING CONNECTED

ACTOR ALAN ALDA PLAYED A SURGEON ON TV, BUT TODAY HE PREACHES OPEN COMMUNICATION BETWEEN DOCTORS AND PATIENTS.

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ommunity Medical Center (CMC) and Monmouth Medical Center, Southern Campus (MMCSC), RWJBarnabas Health facilities, presented an evening with Alan Alda on Sept. 12 at Ocean County College’s Jay & Linda Grunin Center for the Arts.

The night began with opening remarks from Michael Mimoso, MHSA, FACHE, president and chief executive officer of CMC, and Frank J. Vozos, M.D., FACS, executive vice president of RWJBarnabas Health and CEO of MMCSC. “Communication is a key component of health care and one that we strive to exhibit at each and every RWJBarnabas Health facility,” Dr. Vozos says. “When physicians and patients clearly understand one another, the benefits of care are exemplified and the journey to recovery is met seamlessly.”

Alda, the legendary actor, director and author, went on to discuss how to properly communicate with people from all walks of life, which he highlights in his new book, If I Understood You, Would I Have This Look on My Face?

My Adventures in the Art and Science of Relating and Communicating.

The actor also took time to answer several questions from the audience before sitting down with RWJBarnabas Health Corporate Chair of Geriatrics Jessica L. Israel, M.D., to discuss ways in which physicians and patients can communicate better with one another. Dr. Israel, who has been with RWJBarnabas Health since 2002, works alongside geriatricians and interdisciplinary teams from across the system to develop innovative, cohesive programs with a specialized focus on geriatrics and senior care. She also

specializes in doctor-patient communication and said that when she first meets with a new patient, she asks them to take her through their daily lives.

“I’m only getting a snippet of their lives for the short period of time they’re with me,” says Dr. Israel. “To truly understand my patient’s needs, I need them to take me through their day-to-day life and explain to me what they’re struggling with, what’s going well, and what they wish they could change.”

Dr. Israel suggested that patients find a physician who really understands them and their needs. She also said that it’s best to come to appointments with a list or a loved one so important pieces aren’t missed.

“I ask all of my patients to come with an agenda of what they want to talk about,” she says. “I’m obviously going to ask them questions, but I also don’t know what’s been going on in the three to six months since I saw them last, so I need them to tell me. I also make sure my patients know they can call me at any time if they have a question or concern. Oftentimes, it’s when you’re sitting in your kitchen at 10 p.m. when you think of something, and I don’t want my patients to have to wait until they see me next to ask.”

Dr. Israel makes this recommendation of constant communication to her colleagues as well, explaining that to make the most of their appointments, they need to have a level of trust and transparency with their patients. She adds that making sure each patient leaves appointments truly understanding what was discussed is central to successful treatment.

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GOOD TASTE M

onmouth Medical Center, Southern Campus (MMCSC) hosted more than 300 people at its annual Flavors of the Jersey Shore Food and Wine Tasting event on Thursday, Oct. 19 at the Pine Belt Chevrolet Showroom in Lakewood. This event serves as a fundraising opportunity for cancer services at MMCSC and highlights Breast Cancer Awareness month.

Food, wine, and spirits were available from more than 35 vendors, including Avenue Restaurant, Charlie’s of Bay Head, Harpoon Willy’s, Porta, Prime 13 and Yussi’s Deli; back by popular demand this year was the Vodka Lounge that served samplings from Tito’s and Broken Shed Vodka. Throughout the night, guests tried their luck on a 50/50 raffle, silent auction and wine jail while listening to tunes from the Mike Dalton Band.

The 50/50 winner was a Cancer Support Community volunteer who won over $4,000 while the silent auction winners went home with jewelry, Broadway show tickets, restaurant gift cards and more. In addition, the wine jail held 50 bottles

FOOD AND WINE TASTING EVENT BENEFITS CANCER SERVICES AT MMCSC.

of wine hostage until they were freed with a $20 donation.

Guests chose a bottle at random by placing their name on it, and at the end of the night they uncovered which bottle they were bringing home. While some bottles were only worth $15, there were several worth more than $200, including a $328 bottle of 1986 Chateau Angelus.

“This is one of my favorite events of the year,” says Denice Gaffney, vice president of Development, Monmouth Medical Center, Southern Campus Foundation. “Our guests are really able to have fun, relax, and enjoy each other’s company all while supporting a great cause. There is an imperative need to support cancer services in our community, and I think this event gives our community members that opportunity.”

For more information on upcoming events, call the Foundation at 732.886.4438.

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR The following groups and programs hold ongoing meetings that will be of interest to seniors.

GENTLE YOGA

Mondays, 2 to 3 p.m.

Cancer Support Community, 199 Prospect St., Lakewood The proven benefits of yoga include increased flexibility, range of motion, energy and relaxation. Free gentle yoga classes are offered to men and women of all ages who are affected by cancer. Registration required; call 732.923.6090.

EXERCISE FOR STRENGTH

Mondays, 3 to 4 p.m.

Cancer Support Community, 199 Prospect St., Lakewood Individuals who have been affected by cancer can participate in this free interactive workout group. Sessions are designed to improve energy as well as increase endurance and flexibility. Due to the physical nature of the program, sneakers and medical clearance are required.

Registration required; call 732.923.6090.

GUIDED RELAXATION

Mondays from 4 to 4:30 p.m.

Cancer Support Community, 199 Prospect St., Lakewood Those who attend this free group will be provided ways to balance their energy and increase self-care techniques,

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as well as methods to better focus and relax. Medical clearance is required for those currently undergoing active cancer treatment. Registration required; call 732.923.6090.

CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP

Tuesdays, noon to 2 p.m.

Wednesdays, 12:15 to 2:15 p.m.

3rd Floor Conference Room, MMCSC, 600 River Ave., Lakewood This free weekly support group is open to anyone who is caring for a person age 60 or older and living in Ocean County. The group will offer support and education for caregivers to enhance their coping skills and develop strategies for maintaining balance in their lives.

GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN SUPPORT GROUP

Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

3rd Floor Conference Room, MMCSC, 600 River Ave., Lakewood Are you a grandparent in the Ocean/Monmouth area? This free weekly support group helps address many challenges faced by “grandfamilies,” including financial and relational issues. Monthly “family dinners” will provide support and educational programs for grandparents and children under their care.

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We believe caregivers need a little care, too.

Introducing the James and Sharon Maida Geriatrics Institute.

From managing hygiene to enriching mental health, helping a loved one enjoy later life is rewarding, and challenging. At the new Maida Geriatrics Institute, a team of physicians, nurses and social workers joins caregivers in tailoring treatment plans that include everything from medication management to fall prevention to yoga. And with support groups designed to guide caregivers toward meeting the new challenges they face, together we can provide seniors the dignified care they deserve. To learn more, call 732-886-4700 or visit rwjbh.org/monmouthgeriatrics

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