Generations Michigan
Winter 2005
TM
With
Help
Comes
Hope
Dementia Also in This Issue: ■ Healthy Food Habits for the New Year ■ A Look at Area Agencies Around Our State
Published quarterly by Michigan’s Area Agencies on Aging
Welcome to Michigan Generations Michigan is divided into 16 AAAs, each serving a different part of the state.
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They are:
AAAs— Gateways to Community Resources
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4 Region IV Area Agency on Aging 5 Valley Area Agency on Aging 6 Tri-County Office on Aging 7 Region VII Area Agency on Aging 8 Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan 9 NEMCSA Region 9 Area Agency on Aging 10 Area Agency on Aging of Northwest Michigan 11 Upper Peninsula Area Agency on Aging 14 Senior Resources of West Michigan
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The services offered by Michigan’s 16 AAAs cover a broad spectrum of needs, such as information and referral, case management, in-home services, home-delivered meals, senior centers, transportation, and special outreach. To read more about each of Michigan’s AAAs and the services available, turn to page 10 of this issue. MI
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Michigan
Generations WINTER 2005 Published quarterly
through a cooperative effort of Michigan’s Area Agencies on Aging. For information contact: Jenny Jarvis 248-262-9202 jjarvis@aaa1b.com
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Editorial Project Development: JAM Communications, Atlanta, GA Design and Production: Wells-Smith Partners, Lilburn, GA
On the Cover: An estimated 200,000 persons in Michigan currently have dementia, and that number is expected to mushroom in the years ahead. Here’s an overview on diagnosis and treatment — plus lots of information to help caregivers. See story, page 4.
Winter 2005, Volume 2, #3 © 2005 by the Michigan Area Agencies on Aging. The information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. However, the Michigan Area Agencies on Aging and JAM Communications make no warranty to the accuracy or reliability of this information. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written permission. All rights reserved.
Michigan Generations
MAP PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY TRAVEL MICHIGAN
Whether you are an older adult yourself, a caregiver or a friend concerned about the well-being of an older adult, Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) are ready to help. AAAs in communities across the country serve as gateways to local resources, planning efforts, and services that help older adults remain independent. AAAs were established under the Older Americans Act in 1973 to respond to the needs of Americans aged 60 and over in every community. The services available through AAA agencies fall into five general categories: information and consultation, services available in the community, services in the home, housing, and elder rights. A wide range of programs is available within each category.
1A Detroit Area Agency on Aging 1B Area Agency on Aging 1-B 1C The Senior Alliance 2 Region 2 Area Agency on Aging 3A Kalamazoo Cty.Human Services Dept.Region 3A 3B Burnham-Brook Region IIIB Area Agency on Aging 3C Branch-St.Joseph Area Agency on Aging IIIC
CAREGIVINGNews&Notes
POWER
Food for Thought
SENIOR
Did you know that persons 50-plus are the fastest growing part of the Internet audience — with 27 percent estimated to be active Web visitors?
A study by the Harvard Medical School indicates that middle-aged women who ate large quantities of leafy green or cruciferous vegetables helped preserve their brain power years later. For example, the study found that women who ate eight servings a week of vegetables such as spinach did better on cognitive tests compared with women who ate only three servings a week. The results suggest that a veggie-packed diet slows brain aging.The vegetables contain antioxidants that might help ward off damage to the brain by free radicals, molecules thought to accelerate aging of the brain, researchers say.
SILENT KILLER among women
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varian cancer is the sixth most common cancer for American women. Fourteen thousand American women die of the disease every year. Ovarian cancer is hard to detect and can spread quickly, so it’s critically important to recognize the symptoms: • abdominal swelling • abdominal pain • bloating • indigestion, gas or nausea • a feeling of pressure in your pelvis • frequent urination • unexplained changes in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea) • unexplained weight loss or gain • a feeling of fullness even after a light meal • abnormal bleeding If you experience any of these symptoms, you should talk to your doctor. Don’t forget to have a gynecological checkup regularly. Medicare covers a Pap smear and pelvic exam once every two years for all women or yearly for women at high risk for cervical or vaginal cancer.
Free Legal Advice
FOR OLDER ADULTS
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lderlaw of Michigan offers a Legal Hotline for Michigan Seniors where adults aged 60 and older can call for confidential, basic legal advice and information over the telephone from experienced elder law attorneys. Hotline attorneys counsel seniors on how to complain, and how to get results and solve problems. They can help with questions on: wills, probate, protective services, Medicaid/ Medicare, nursing home care, consumer issues, housing/real estate,
Surfing the Net Each issue of Michigan Generations offers several Web sites of interest to older adults and their caregivers … right at your fingertips.
www.agingresearch.org spotlights the work of The Alliance for Aging Research. Articles and information on scores of diseases or medical conditions are available. www.healthandage.com is sponsored by Novartis and offers a well-rounded collection of educational pages on aging, a Q & A section and online health quizzes for seniors and caregivers. Look for more helpful Web sites in the next issue of Michigan Generations. Winter 2005
1-800-347-5297 family law, insurance and pensions. Call Monday–Friday from 9 am to 5 pm. A receptionist will ask for your name, telephone number, date of birth, number of persons in the household, average monthly income, race/ethnicity and nature of your problem. If you are calling on behalf of a person 60 and older, you will need to be their court appointed guardian or have their power of attorney to discuss their situation.
Winter Walking Safety Tips These helpful hints will reduce the risk of falling when slippery conditions exist:
WEAR BOOTS OR OVERSHOES WITH SOLES. Avoid walking in shoes that have smooth surfaces, which increase the risk of slipping. WALK CONSCIOUSLY. Be alert to the possibility that you could quickly slip on an unseen patch of ice. WALK CAUTIOUSLY. Your arms help keep you balanced, so keep hands out of pockets and avoid carrying heavy loads that may cause you to become off balance. WALK “SMALL.” Avoid a marching posture. Look to see ahead of where you step.When you step on icy areas, take short steps, curl your toes under and walk as flat-footed as possible. HAVE SNOW REMOVED IMMEDIATELY before it turns to ice. Keep your porch stoops, steps, walks and driveways free of ice by frequently applying ice melter granules. 3
Dementia With
Help
Comes
Hope By Martha Nolan McKenzie
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MANY SENIORS FEAR DEMENTIA MORE THAN death. A diagnosis of dementia forebodes a relentless progression of losses — loss of your memory, of your mental and physical abilities and of your essence. “My patients, by and large, would rather be told they have cancer than dementia,” says Dr. Kevin Denlinger, a family physician in Roscommon and a member of the Medical and Scientific Advisory Council for the state Alzheimer’s Association. “For many of them, it’s the scariest and most hopeless diagnosis they can think of.” Yet, as the population ages, it’s a diagnosis more and more patients will hear. An estimated 2 million people in the United States suffer from severe dementia and another 1 to 5 million have mild to moderate dementia. In Michigan, an estimated 200,000 persons currently have dementia. Since the incidence of dementia increases dramatically with age, the state — and the entire country — will undoubtedly see those numbers mushroom as baby boomers enter their senior years. There is great hope, however. Today several medications are available that can slow the progression of symptoms. There is growing awareness of the needs of patients and of their caregivers, with corresponding services being offered. And the future holds even more promise for improved diagnosis, treatments and, perhaps one day, a cure. Michigan Generations
PHOTO BY GREEN FROG PHOTOGRAPHY GRAND RAPIDS
Residents of Our Place Cares in Greenville enjoy participating in daily activities such as baking and cooking.
PHOTO BY GREEN FROG PHOTOGRAPHY, GRAND RAPIDS
“I am very hopeful because of the tremendous advances I’ve seen recently,” says Peter A. Lichtenberg, PhD, director of the Institute of Gerontology, Wayne State University in Detroit and chairman of the Michigan Dementia Coalition. The coalition is a collaboration between consumers, community groups, universities and state agencies charged with improving the lives of people with dementia and their families. “When I started in this field, there were no treatments for people with dementia. Now we have some good treatments for symptoms, and I think we’ll see more improvements. In the future, I think we will see significant delay of dementia, earlier detection, better treatments and better quality of life.”
Dementia defined Dementia is a group of symptoms including memory loss and impaired thinking. It’s much more than misplacing your keys or forgetting a name, and it’s not a natural part of the aging process, experts point out. “Real memory loss and cognitive impairment are not a part of normal aging,” says Dr. Chris Hough, a geriatrician and medical director of the Mid Michigan Physicians Group in Midland. “There are some changes in the way your brain works as you age. It may take you longer to recall something than it did before, and learning new things may be more difficult. That’s really benign. People with dementia forget more things more often and don’t remember them later on.” Specific symptoms may include asking the same questions repeatedly, becoming lost in familiar places, being unable to follow directions and neglecting personal safety, hygiene and nutrition. Another hallmark of dementia is denial. “If you are worried about your memory loss, you probably don’t have anything to worry about,” says Hough. “It’s the people who are not worried about it at all who are more apt to have dementia. They don’t notice it, but their family does.” More than 80 conditions can lead to dementia, the most common of which is Alzheimer’s disease, accounting for 50 to 70 percent of all incidences. Multi-infarct disease (mini strokes) and Lewy body dementia (characterized by abnormal brain cells called Lewy bodies) are the next most common conditions causing dementia. Other causes include Lou Gehrig’s disease, Huntington’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, brain injury, brain tumors, HIV/AIDS, alcohol and drug abuse, and vitamin B1 deficiency. In multi-infarct dementia, a series of small strokes may result in the death of brain tissue. The location in the brain where the small strokes occur determines the seriousness of the problem and the symptoms that result. Symptoms that begin Winter 2005
suddenly may be a sign of this kind of dementia. People with multi-infarct dementia are likely to show signs of improvement or remain stable for long periods of time, then quickly develop new symptoms if more strokes occur. In many people with multi-infarct dementia, high blood pressure is to blame. Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is not quite Alzheimer’s and not quite Parkinson’s, although it shares characteristics with both. As with Alzheimer’s disease, DLB can only be diagnosed with certainty by an autopsy of the brain after death to search for the presence of Lewy bodies, which are small, round inclusions that are found within nerve cells. Lewy bodies are a characteristic feature of Parkinson’s disease, but they appear in different areas of the brain in each disease. DLB is also characterized by one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s — plaques
In Michigan, the estimated cost of caring for people with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia is $5 billion per year.
Our Place Cares Offers Unique Alternative Living
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he house, with its vinyl siding, large front porch and neatly kept lawn, looks like many of the others that line the quiet suburban street in Greenville. But 10710 Roy Drive is a unique sort of residence. It is home to 11 seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia. As an adult foster care facility, the Roy Drive house, named “Our Place Cares,” provides an alternative to nursing homes for people in the moderate to severe stages of Alzheimer’s. Co-owners Dianne Weaver and Chris Simons had both worked in nursing homes before founding Our Place Cares in 1996. “We both saw first-hand that institutional settings were not optimal for people with Alzheimer’s,” says Weaver. “We wanted to offer a smaller, more residential, more personal setting.” And they have. An open kitchen, living room and dining room provides a homey gathering place for residents. Shared bedrooms offer a place to get away, but alleviate the fear of being alone that tends to come with the disease. A screened porch and a planned fenced garden area allow patients to enjoy the outdoors. “We provide a lot of help with daily activities, we serve meals and medications and offer activities throughout the day,” says Weaver. “But we try to give the residents as much freedom as we can. They can wake up and go to bed whenever they want. They can get a snack whenever they want. They can participate in any activities they want.” Weaver is pleased with the service Our Place Cares provides. “We really focus on the individual,” she says. “We go out of our way to keep them involved. Our cook always gets residents involved in meal preparations. Even residents who do not communicate anymore will chop vegetables or mix cookie batter. And some of our less cognitively impaired residents have started a social hour where they drink coffee and chat. There is always a lot of laughter. And on Halloween, the residents helped hand out candy to the neighborhood children. They loved that.”
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More than seven out of 10 people with Alzheimer’s live at home, where family and friends provide almost 75 percent of their care. The remainder is “paid care” costing an average of $12,500 per year.
in the brain tissue. Symptoms may also mimic Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. People with DLB may suffer short-term memory problems and language problems, as with Alzheimer’s, as well as the resting tremors, rigidity and reduced facial expression of Parkinson’s. Since Alzheimer’s is far and away the biggest culprit, the remainder of this article will deal specifically with this disease, unless otherwise noted.
the mild stage, someone might have trouble finding the right words or might get lost in a familiar place. In the severe stage, someone might not recognize loved ones, forget how to walk and become incontinent. Most patients live an average of eight years after they are diagnosed, but they can live as long as 20 years. That’s why Alzheimer’s is often called “the long good-bye.”
Diagnosing Alzheimer’s The long good-bye Alzheimer’s disease is an irreversible, fatal condition. Researchers understand the process of the disease — protein plaques and tangles accumulate in the brain, causing brain cells to die. Scientists don’t know, however, what causes this deadly process to begin. Age clearly plays a key role. One in 10 people over age 65 have Alzheimer’s, but nearly half of all people over 85 have it. “Scientists are starting to think that if you live long enough, you will eventually get Alzheimer’s,” says Dr. Kevin T. Foley, medical director of the Hauenstein Alzheimer’s Disease and Memory Disorders Program at St. Mary’s Health Care in Grand Rapids. Alzheimer’s is progressive, and patients pass through three stages: mild, moderate and severe. In
Diagnosis, particularly in the mild stage, can be tricky. Since the only truly definitive confirmatory test is a brain autopsy, physicians must rely on interviews with the patient and loved ones, memory tests and a physical exam. Physicians typically do several lab tests, mostly to rule out other, perhaps reversible, causes of dementia, such as vitamin deficiency or anemia. They may do brain scans to look for evidence of strokes, tumors or head injury. They may also do a psychological evaluation to rule out major depression. “If a patient has a heart attack, you can do a test and know instantly what the problem is,” says Foley. “That’s not the case with Alzheimer’s. On top of that, general practitioners are not adequately trained in diagnosing it, and they don’t have very good screening tools at their disposal. As a result,
Michigan Dementia Coalition Outlines Strategies
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ementia looms larger on the nation’s public health horizon than perhaps any other threat. Since the biggest risk factor for dementia is age, the number of people who suffer from it is expected to explode in the coming years. Policy makers and health officials in Michigan recognized dementia’s growing menace nearly two decades ago and took action. In 1985, the Governor appointed a dementia task force composed of consumers, community groups, universities and state agencies. The task force, which grew into the Michigan Dementia Coalition, developed various public health dementia programs statewide. In 2003, the coalition released the Michigan Dementia Plan, outlining the best strategies for reducing the burden of dementia in Michigan. “This plan was really developed in response to community needs,” says Dr. Judith L. Heidebrink, the 6
plan’s co-chair and co-investigator with the Michigan Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center at the University of Michigan. “We tried to identify the pressing needs on various levels — for the state as a whole, for patients, for physicians. We synthesized our findings into five goals.” These five goals are: 1. Increase support for family members who provide care for persons with dementia at home. 2. Promote a public health, disease management approach to dementia care in primary care practice that makes full use of best dementia care practices. 3. Increase the dementia competency of health care professionals. 4. Improve the choices for residence and care of persons with dementia. 5. Increase early intervention by increasing public awareness of the caregiver role and the early warning signs of dementia. Though the plan does not provide any funding, work has already begun in many
areas to reach these goals. The state Office of Services to the Aging, for example, has developed a joint work group with several major associations to map out all available sources for families. “This information has never been centralized, catalogued and available to patients and caregivers,” says Peter A. Lichtenberg, PhD, director of the Institute of Gerontology, Wayne State University in Detroit and chairman of the Michigan Dementia Coalition. “Now this information will be given to physicians so they can provide it to their patients.” The plan also led to the creation of a Primary Care Physicians’ Network, which is working with primary care physicians to enhance their ability to diagnose and treat dementia. “The network has identified 15 practices and has started working with them, and it will roll it out from there,” says Lichtenberg. “Our five goals are coming to fruition, even without a lot of funding,” says Heidebrink. “We’ve all been pleasantly surprised.” Michigan Generations
Support for Caregivers two-thirds of people who are diagnosed with Alzheimer’s are not diagnosed until they are in the moderate or severe stage of the disease.” Roger Markell knows how difficult it can be to get a physician to make a diagnosis. Roger, now 78, noticed his wife, June, also 78, was becoming forgetful at least 15 years ago. Then the Midland senior watched his wife’s personality gradually change from outgoing and gregarious to anxious and reclusive. During an office visit in 1996, Roger told his wife’s doctor that she had a problem. The doctor dismissed his concern, saying it was just age. Over the next year, June’s symptoms worsened, and at the next visit Roger insisted that something be done. The physician performed a battery of tests and finally diagnosed June with Alzheimer’s.
Effective treatments available A delay in diagnosis can be tragic, because early intervention can slow the progress of the disease. Indeed, four medications have been approved by the FDA to treat mild to moderate symptoms of Alzheimer’s. They are Cognex, Aricept, Exelon and Reminyl. The drugs can’t stop or reverse the course of the disease, but they can slow the development of symptoms. “So instead of going down a really steep slope, you go down a gradual one,” says Denlinger. “If you catch it early and start treatment early, you can stay in a much more functional, higher quality of life position much longer. But if you wait until the disease has progressed, the medications can’t get back lost abilities.” The problem is that in the very early mild stage, it’s difficult to tell if a patient actually has Alzheimer’s or not. “I have patients who have gone both ways,” says Denlinger. “Even though we’re not positive if they have Alzheimer’s, some will start taking the medication, just in case. Others decide to wait and see if their memory declines further.” By the time she was diagnosed, June Markell had already progressed to the moderate stage. Though she still lives at home, she is confined to a wheelchair and no longer recognizes Roger, her husband of 61 years. Winter 2005
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roviding care for a loved one with a chronic illness is never easy, but caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease is perhaps the most challenging task of all. “It’s hard to overstate how difficult it can be,” says Kim DeHart Walsh, program director of the Alzheimer’s Association Michigan Great Lakes Chapter in Ann Arbor. “Due to the progressive nature of the disease, as soon as the caregiver gets a handle on one phase of the disease, the loved one gets worse and the caregiver has to adapt to a new set of challenges.” The most difficult aspect, however, is the gradual stripping away of the loved one’s personality. “The person they care for now may not seem like the person they have known and loved all these years,” says Walsh. “It’s hard to put all your love and care into assisting someone who is not able to say thank you and who is not able to relate to you in the way you remember.” It’s critical for caregivers to reach out for help early in the process and set up a support system. “There is a lot of help out there, so you don’t Caring and comfort are top priorities need to do this alone,” says Walsh. at Seasons Adult Day Services in “You just have to reach out.” Midland County. The best place to start is the Alzheimer’s Association. You can call the association’s statewide helpline at 1-800-337-3827 seven days a week, 24 hours a day. You will always get a live person. Through the helpline, you can access care consultation. A staff member will meet with you one-onone to assess your needs and develop an action plan. You can also find out about support groups, education programs and support services throughout the state. In addition, the Alzheimer’s Association offers a national registry called Safe Return. You can get an ID bracelet for your loved one and register him into the national databank. Then if he wanders off and becomes lost, he can be identified and safely returned to his home. Another good place to look for help is your local Area Agency on Aging. Each agency maintains a list of local services, programs and support available for people who suffer from dementia. “With Alzheimer’s, you’re not just dealing with the person who has the disease,” says Pat Phillips, executive director of Senior Services at the Midland County Council on Aging. “It’s just as big a deal for the caregiver and the family of the caregiver. So services and support need to be family-centered.”
“The only reason we’re surviving is that June goes to day care at the senior center every day, and I have someone who comes in our home for a few hours on Saturday and Sunday so I can do errands and go to church,” says Roger. “Fortunately, my health is pretty good. Otherwise, we’d be in real trouble.” Beyond medications, any kind of mental stimulation can be helpful, particularly in the mild stage. “Reading, working a puzzle — anything to get Continued on page 19 7
GUESTClose-Up SKILLED NURSING CARE dents are free to use the kitchen to make a cup of tea or prepare snacks for themselves or their guests. The “Shahbaz,” or elder assistant, is the direct care provider who prepares the meals, washes the clothes, assists residents and so forth. “Shahbazim” are certified nursing assistants with advanced training who work as a self-managed team. They are coached by a “guide,” usually the administrator, and advised by a “sage,” who is a Green House resident. Doctors and nurses visit the house to provide skilled nursing and therapy as needed. This extraordinary service is possible because the increase in costs for direct care workers with advanced training is offset by a reduction in the costs related to operating a large institution. In order for an organization to duplicate the Green House By Kay J. Miller model, several factors must be considered, including state regulations, reimbursement rates, financial goals and project scope. hat will Powers, Michigan, in the Upper Peninsula and The first Green Houses in the United States are located at Redford Township, a west side suburb of Detroit, have in the Mississippi Methodist Senior Services’ Tupelo, Mississippi, common in 2005? The answer is that Pinecrest Medical Care campus. They plan on building a total of 12 Green Houses, Facility in Powers and Presbyterian Villages of Michigan in Redreplacing their current 140-bed nursing home. ford will be building Pinecrest Medical Care Facility is a 174the first Green bed nursing home owned by Delta, DickinHouses in Michigan. son and Menominee counties in the Upper The Green Peninsula. Pinecrest is planning to build House Project™ is five Green Houses. Presbyterian Villages of the newest concept Michigan has over a dozen senior living for frail seniors who communities serving 2,000 elders and plans need 24-hour on building its first Green Houses on their licensed skilled Redford campus, with plans to build more nursing care but throughout Michigan. Both Michigan Green want a home-like House projects have been designated as environment. ConRobert Wood Johnson Pilot Projects. ceived by Dr. For more information on the new Green William H. Thomas, Houses in Michigan, contact Gerald Betcreator of the ters, Administrator at Pinecrest Medical A typical evening meal in a Green House in Mississippi. Eden Alternative™ Care Facility, at 906-497-5244 or Mariellen (a model for cultural Davis, Regional Vice President and Execuchange within nursing homes), each Green House will offer 10 tive Director at the Village of Redford Senior Living Community, private rooms with their own bathrooms, a large community at 313-533-0146. Information is also available at the following room, meals cooked right in the home — where residents can Web sites: www.thegreenhouseproject.com and www.pvm.org. see the cooking and smell the meal they are going to eat — and The Green House Project has been much, much more. Everything from the size of the home to the funded by grants from the Robert interior design, staffing patterns and delivery of professional Wood Johnson Foundation, the Fan services is different from other nursing homes. Fox and Leslie R. Samuels Foundation, Each elder (a term Dr. Thomas prefers to “seniors”) enjoys a Inc. and the Hulda B. and Maurice L. private room and bath, which they can decorate with their own Rothschild Foundation. MI belongings. Each house has a large living room with fireplace, an open kitchen and dining area, an outdoor garden and a patio. KAY J. MILLER, MSW, is the Vice The dining room table is large enough for residents, staff and President of Marketing and Communicaresidents’ guests to dine together. The elders decide what time tions for Presbyterian Villages of to get up or go to bed, when they are going to eat and how Michigan Senior Living Communities. much time they would like to take for their meals. Also, resi-
Creating a
Home-like
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Michigan Generations
ASKtheExpert
Karen Jackson
Healthy Food Habits for the New Year
I am often tempted to make less healthy food choices. What can I do to make my diet healthier? MAKING CHANGES IN YOUR EATING HABITS
can help you not only to eat healthier but to save time in your daily routine. Keep healthy foods on hand, storing them visibly in clear containers and cutting them into bite-size, ready-to-eat pieces. Prepare foods ahead of meals, or freeze meals for extra-busy days. Fill a bowl with fresh seasonal fruit to brighten your kitchen, and cut favorite veggies for a tempting snack. Keep meats, cheeses and vegetables available to stuff into pitas or tortillas or to serve as finger food for a quick bite.
My mother has lived alone since my father passed away, and I worry about her eating too many meals alone. SOCIALIZATION IS AN IMPORTANT PART OF HEALTHY LIVING, so take time to get to
know the variety of resources in the aging network that can benefit your mother. Most communities offer a congregate meal program during the lunch hour. Or have your mother schedule a date with a friend to explore the local community senior center. There are many older adults who share similar experiences and can be of support in times of need.
My father recently got quite ill after eating some cheese at my house. No one else in the family was affected. Are seniors more vulnerable to certain types of foods? FOR SENIORS, CERTAIN FOODS may pose
a significant health hazard because of the level of bacteria present in the product’s uncooked state. In some cases, older adults have mistakenly self-diagnosed a foodborne illness as “the flu.” The U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns that seniors should avoid these products: • Raw fish and shellfish • Raw or unpasteurized milk or cheese • Soft cheeses such as Brie, Camembert, blue-veined and Mexican-style cheese • Raw or lightly cooked egg or egg products • Raw meat or poultry • Raw alfalfa sprouts • Unpasteurized or untreated fruit or vegetable juices
When should I refrigerate cooked leftovers? My mother traditionally waited until they were somewhat cool before putting them in the fridge.
“Expert” at: Jenny Jarvis,Area Agency
REFRIGERATE LEFTOVERS IMMEDIATELY. Divide large amounts of food into several shallow containers so that they will cool quickly in the refrigerator. If food is not consumed later that day, label each container with a date. Most often harmful bacteria cannot be smelled, tasted or otherwise detected. But the consequences, which can include abdominal cramping, diarrhea, fever, headache, nausea, vomiting and even death, are all too apparent.
on Aging 1-B, 29100 Northwestern
Are food supplements beneficial?
Highway, Suite 400, Southfield, MI 48034;
IT ’ S THE OFFICIAL POSITION OF THE
Do you have a caregiving question? Write or email your question to our
jjarvis@aaa1b.com.We will make every effort to answer your question in an upcoming issue of Michigan Generations.
Winter 2005
AMERICAN DIETETIC ASSOCIATION that most healthy people can get all the nutrients they need from food in a well-planned diet. Consult with your physician or a registered dietitian about supplements
before using them. Consumers need to pay a great deal of attention and do some research before buying supplements. The Food and Drug Administration does not regulate supplements as it does prescription and over-the-counter medications. There are no government regulations that require warning labels about potential side effects or dangers. To help you spot questionable practices and avoid supplements that may not be safe, beware of supplements that: • Promote quick fixes or guaranteed cures. • Tout “all-natural” aspects. Many harmful compounds are “all-natural.” • Lack research to support product claims. • Attempt to impress you by using hardto-understand medical terminology. • Announce special deals or products that are available for a limited time only. • Make unrealistic claims.
I am on a special diet and find it difficult to follow my diet when eating out, so I have been avoiding going out with my friends. DON’T HESITATE TO ASK YOUR SERVER
or the grocer how meals are prepared when dining or taking out. Many restaurants and senior nutrition programs will accommodate requests to prepare foods to your liking — using less salt, fat or sugar or adjusting portions. If a restaurant menu or food container is not descriptive and you have a question, inquire about specific ingredients. Often sharing a meal from a restaurant can cut portions to the size you need, and you can add variety with a salad, soup or appetizer selection. MI KAREN JACKSON is a registered dietitian for the AAA 1-B and a fellow in the American Dietetic Association. 9
REGIONALNews In communities across the U.S.,
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Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) serve as gateways to local resources, planning efforts and services that help older adults remain independent. Here are the programs and services offered by Michigan’s AAAs.
1A Detroit Area Agency on Aging 1B Area Agency on Aging 1-B 1C The Senior Alliance 2 Region 2 Area Agency on Aging 3A Kalamazoo Cty.Human Services Dept.Region 3A 3B Burnham-Brook Region IIIB 3C Branch-St.Joseph Area Agency on Aging IIIC 4 Region IV Area Agency on Aging 5 Valley Area Agency on Aging
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6 Tri-County Office on Aging 7 Region VII Area Agency on Aging 8 Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan 9 NEMCSA Region 9 Area Agency on Aging 10 Area Agency on Aging of Northwest Michigan 11 Upper Peninsula Area Agency on Aging 14 Senior Resources of West Michigan
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14 6 4
1B
3A 3B 3C
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1A 1C
S POTLIGHT O N …
Area Agency on Aging of Northwest Michigan Offering information and funding senior services in the 10-county area of Northwest Lower Michigan
Day Centers Improve Quality of Life
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here’s no place like home. Period. But for many individuals and families, the challenges of aging in place and caregiving at home require that other care options be pursued to ensure total well-being and peace of mind. An important piece of the care strategy may be adult day care. Adult day center programs offer caregivers respite from the 24-hour-aday mental and physical responsibili-
ties of home care. According to Webster’s dictionary, respite (pronounced “ress-pit”) is “a short time of rest or relief.” But there’s a lot more going on at adult day centers than what this definition tells us. The primary benefit of respite is an improved quality of life for participants and their caregivers. Whether it be for a few short hours once a week or daily care, participants are provided numerous venues in which to improve their functional abilities, nutritional habits, physical activity and psychosocial skills. As a result, participants may experience Daughter Donna states,“DayBreak (Cadillac) has been a great way for Mom (Shirley) to get out and be with other people. The warm, caring environment makes her feel special.”
reduced health care costs, easier medical management and fewer barriers that traditionally hamper personal care. The atmosphere created at adult day centers provides opportunities for socialization and camaraderie. Thus, there are opportunities to increase self-esteem and to minimize reactions such as inappropriate anger, combativeness and wandering. New and renewed friendships take on greater possibilities, and isolation and loneliness are bid adieu. To learn if adult day care is a realistic option for your family, visit a center near you. If cost is a concern, ask about scholarships and grant funding. For more information, contact your local Area Agency on Aging or the Area Agency on Aging of Northwest Michigan at 1-800-442-1713. Michigan Generations
Detroit Area Agency on Aging Serving Detroit, Highland Park, Hamtramck, Harper Woods and the five Grosse Pointes in Wayne County
Brightening Seniors’ Holidays
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magine being alone for the holidays. Now imagine being alone and hungry. For many seniors, this is their reality — a holiday without family, friends, food or cheer. Fortunately, there is a holiday meal delivery program designed specifically for these at-risk seniors. The Detroit Area Agency on Aging’s Holiday Meals on Wheels is a volunteer-based program that provides delicious meals prepared from scratch to thousands of homebound seniors in the metropolitan Detroit area. Holiday Cards was developed to support the Holiday Meals on Wheels program. Holiday Cards is a fundraiser through which specially-designed holiday cards are sold for five dollars each. Each card sale allows for the purchase of one hot, nutritious meal. Holiday Cards is a unique and compassionate way for an individual or organization to show support to homebound, at-risk seniors. “Far too many seniors spend their holidays in isolation and without a nutritious meal,” says Paul Bridgewater, executive director of the Detroit Area Agency on Aging. “Holiday Cards is a way for people to support our Holiday Meals on Wheels program and provide these seniors with a delicious Thanksgiving and Christmas meal, along with a beautiful holiday card signed by the donor.” This year, with goals set higher than ever, special events and strategies were planned to support this worthwhile annual effort. A lavish kickoff event was held at The Donna Burke from SBC presents Paul Bridgewater of DAAA a check for $10,000 to support Holiday Cards.
Winter 2005
Park and Harper Woods. The DAAA’s goal is to maintain and increase the services provided to the elderly; improve the quality of life of the senior population; and increase the level of community support and awareness of the senior population. Since 2000, more than half a million dollars have been raised from the Holiday Cards program. In
Roostertail in Detroit during early November, where supporters came to collect cards to sell while they enjoyed a strolling supper, cocktails and music. The cost for guests to attend the event was a commitment to sell as many cards as possible. Last year, HMOW was able to deliver nearly 90,000 meals to frail, at-risk homebound seniors. HMOW augments Meals on Wheels’ regular Monday through Friday meal deliveries. Homebound seniors who would otherwise not receive a meal on a holiday or weekend will receive these specially prepared holiday meals. These individuals are: John Steigelman and Dameon Wilburn from DAAA are prepared to sell holiday cards at the Holiday Cards Kickoff. • Homebound seniors age 60 and over the fiscal year 2003/2004, over 64,000 • Lonely and isolated persons: Two out of three senmeals were delivered to clients of this iors live alone. program. Seniors who are low-income “The dire need for Meals on • Wheels and Holiday Meals on Wheels • The very old: Many seniors are well over 75 years of age. stems from three factors: the high Detroit Meals on poverty rate among older adults, the Wheels provides meals lack of awareness within the general daily to homebound population of the crisis in our senior seniors residing in community and, most of all, the lack the cities of of resources available to combat the Detroit, Hamunique needs that develop as people tramck, Highage,” says Bridgewater. “Unfortunately, land Park, because of the scope of our services Grosse and the lack of supportive funding, Pointe, Meals on Wheels and Holiday Meals Grosse on Wheels must continuously rely on Pointe Woods, generous donations from community Grosse Pointe and corporate entities.” Farms, Grosse For more information on Holiday Cards, Pointe Shores, please call the Detroit Area Agency on Grosse Pointe Aging at 313-446-4444. 11
Area Agency on Aging 1-B Serving the counties of Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, St. Clair and Washtenaw
Reaching Out to Older Adult Refugees
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he Area Agency on Aging 1-B (AAA 1-B) is reaching out to refugees to inform them about services available to help improve their quality of life. Many older adults are eligible for services in the aging network, regardless of their country of birth. The AAA 1-B service region has the highest population of older adult refugees in the state of Michigan. This outreach has been very positively received by the refugee population and would not have been possible without funding provided by the Michigan Family Independence Agency Refugee Assistance Program and the Office of Services for the Aging. The program targets Russian, Bosnian, Asian, Iraqi,Vietnamese and Hmong refugee groups. In August 2004 the AAA 1-B cosponsored an Outreach Fair with the Chaldean American Ladies of Charity. Over 100 Chaldean older adults attended and were provided information on transportation, nutrition, community care management and older adult employment opportunities. Translators were at the event to interpret presentations and facilitate communication of valuable information between the refugee attendees and the various service groups. Other events have been held to provide information to Asian,Vietnamese and Hmong older adults. In Spring 2005 the AAA 1-B will be hosting a fair for Asian-Indian older adults. According to Tina Abbate Marzolf, director of Contracted and DSP Services at the AAA 1-B, who oversees the refugee program, “One of the greatest barriers aging network providers face when working with the older adult refugee population is communication.The ability to communicate with individuals who do not speak English is crucial. We have developed 12
several mechanisms for providers to do this.We will continue to work to address these and other barriers to
individuals who do not speak English. Additionally, information on care management, public assistance, legal serv-
Chaldean older adults participate in a workshop on using local transportation services at the outreach event cosponsored by the AAA 1-B and the Chaldean American Ladies of Charity.
ensure that older adult refugees access much-needed aging network services.� To help further address the communication barrier, the AAA 1-B has also implemented a Language Line service that, with the assistance of a translator, enables staff at the agency to talk on the telephone with
ices, nutrition and transportation has been translated into Bosnian, Arabic, Vietnamese, Spanish and Russian. For more information on upcoming refugee events, to find out about available services or to receive translated materials, please call the AAA 1-B at 1-800-852-7795.
Consumer Tips on Purchasing Long-Term Care Insurance
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ecently the Area Agency on Aging 1-B (AAA 1-B) Advisory Council completed a study on long-term care insurance and determined that consumers will benefit from a better understanding of the advantages and drawbacks of long-term care insurance policies. Long-term care insurance
(LTCI) is a way to pay for long-term care in a nursing home, one’s own home or assisted-living facilities. LTCI is not appropriate for everyone, and there are a number of factors to consider when thinking about purchasing a policy, including your financial ability to pay for the monthly premium, your Michigan Generations
Continued from previous page total assets and how you wish those to be utilized for long-term care or other purposes, your health status and your age. If you are considering purchasing a LTCI policy for yourself or someone else in your family, below are some points to keep in mind as you shop for long-term care insurance in Michigan: ASK QUESTIONS If you have questions or concerns about LTCI, an agent, an insurance company or a policy, there are a variety of resources to turn to: • The AAA 1-B’s Medicare Medicaid Assistance Program has trained volunteers that can answer general questions and provide an information packet about LTCI at 1-800-803-7174. • Michigan’s Office of Financial & Insurance Services (OFIS) can provide various information, including the latest rate information filed by any company marketing long-term care products in
Michigan, at 1-877-999-6442 or www.michigan.gov/ofis. PICK A REPUTABLE AGENT Many professions may be licensed to sell LTCI, including attorneys, financial planners and insurance agents. Get a business card and call the company to make sure that person is employed there and licensed to sell insurance. SHOP AROUND Check with several insurance companies and agents before making a decision. CHECK THE COMPANY’S FINANCIAL
The following companies rate insurance companies: —A.M. Best Company, 908-439-2200, www.ambest.com. —Demotech, Inc., 614-761-8602, www.demotech.com. —Fitch, Inc., 1-800-753-4824, www.fitchratings.com. —Moody’s Investors Service, 212-553-1653, www.moodys.com. —Standard & Poor’s, 212-208-1527, www.standardandpoors.com. —Weiss Research, Inc., 1-800-289STABILITY
9222, www.weissratings.com. NEVER PAY IN CASH To avoid fraud, your payment should be a check or money order made out to the company, not to the agent. READ THE POLICY CAREFULLY
When you receive your policy in the mail, make sure it is what you thought you were buying. In Michigan all longterm care policies have a 30-day “free look” period. If you decide that you do not want the policy, you are under no obligation and will receive a total refund of any premiums already paid if within the “free look” period. Remember that the Area Agency on Aging 1-B can provide you with nonbiased information on long-term care insurance to help you make a decision if this insurance is appropriate for you or someone else in your family. You may speak with a trained counselor at 1-800-803-7174, Monday through Friday, between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. For general questions, contact the AAA 1-B at 1-800-852-7795.
Region 2 Area Agency on Aging Serving Hillsdale, Jackson and Lenawee counties
Seniors Learn About Scams and Identity Theft
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n late August the Hillsdale County Sheriff’s Department, Hillsdale TRIAD, Kurtz Funeral Home, Hillsdale County Senior Center and Region 2 Area Agency on Aging provided an all-day conference on senior safety at the Hillsdale County Senior Center. This was the third safety seminar for Hillsdale County and had an attendance of more than All-day conference focuses on senior safety. 100 persons. Presentations were given on identity theft, living wills The Hillsdale County Sheriff’s and trusts, fire and home safety, grief Department provided a wonderful and recovery, senior abuse and continental breakfast, and lunch was exploitation and Internet safety. provided with a grant from the Winter 2005
Michigan Sheriffs Association. Hillsdale Senior Center staff donated their time for meal planning and service. Local merchants and providers donated wonderful gifts for a drawing, and seniors went home with helpful information about how to be safe, sound and secure in their county. In October two other senior seminars are planned for Lenawee and Jackson counties. The two counties will use the same format and will include speakers from the Attorney General’s Office. For more information on the conference, contact Ginny Wood-Bailey at Region 2 AAA, 1-800-335-7881. 13
Kalamazoo Cty. Human Services Dept. Region 3A Covering Kalamazoo County and its 24 municipalities
Grant Helps Medicare Beneficiaries Determine Prescription Drug Assistance
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he Region 3A AAA received a grant from the Access to Benefits Coalition to help Medicare beneficiaries and/or their caregivers to determine what Medicare-approved prescription drug discount card or other prescription assistance program would be most helpful in lowering their drug costs. Working through a local Coalition, the AAA 3A has trained volunteer advisors and paid outreach workers to assist people by utilizing a computer program that searches over 300 potential programs that could save people money. This in-depth analysis can reassure many beneficiaries who are confused about which program or
persons under 65 and rural, African-American and Hispanic elders. Coordination with the Medicare/ Medicaid Assistance Program (MMAP) results in assistance for more complex situations. For assistance, call Access to Benefits Coalition advisors are ready to offer assistance. ABC project manager, Peggy Sattler, at 269373-5173. Information is card will work best for them. also available for people who wish to use The Coalition is targeting Medicare their own computers for the research. beneficiaries who qualify for the $600 extra assistance available through the Information and Assistance. . . . . . . . . . . . 269-373-5173 Medicare certified MMAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-800-803-7174 cards, disabled
Burnham Brook Region IIIB Serving Barry and Calhoun counties in Southwest Michigan
Cash and Counseling Demonstration Project Promotes Self-Determination
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urnham Brook Region IIIB was selected as one of three AAAs in the state to participate in the Michigan Department of Community Health demonstration project Cash and Counseling. DCH was awarded funding from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. This effort will bring a new approach to our various care management programs, as it involves supporting clients to direct their own care within a set authorized budget. This will create an alternative care management model for all Medicaid Waiver agents to replicate. The Cash and Counseling model empowers participants to act as the primary causal agent in planning and
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directing their own care by managing an individualized budget to address service and support needs. The program will offer participants a flexible allowance to purchase needed services and will include direction to their chosen personal care workers as well as providing counseling and fiscal assistance to support participants in managing their allowance. Consumers may designate representatives, such as family members, to make decisions on their behalf. This feature makes the model adaptable to a broad spectrum of consumers, regardless of age or type of impairment. In addition to increased personal control over one’s life, implementing the model should increase opportuni-
ties for the Waiver participant and their family in planning and purchasing needed long-term care supports, increase the level of comfort in receiving care by allowing more control over the selection of workers, and strengthen the support of families and individuals, which could further delay institutionalization. The model is based on the value that it is more appropriate for individuals, not agencies, to make decisions about their own care. Empowering and supporting participants will facilitate quality of life, as consumers and their families take charge of their care and make choices based on their preferences and values. For more information on the program, call 269-966-8136 or visit our Web site at www.burnhambrook.com. Michigan Generations
Branch–St.Joseph Area Agency on Aging IIIC Serving a two-county area surrounding Sturgis, Three Rivers, Coldwater and Quincy
When to Ask for Caregiving Help
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ines Senior Respite Services has been operating in Branch County since 1997. Since then, grant funding from Region IIIC AAA has helped support the program, and their compassionate staff has worked with over 90 families. Pictured here (from left) are Nancy and Mike Stevens, Nancy’s mother, Agnes Caterina, and Julie Hurley, director of Pines Senior Respite Services. The Stevens family shares a few thoughts to enlighten readers about “when to ask for help.”
Seek out services that are available in your community, they suggest, including home health aides and respite care.You may find yourself getting angry, frustrated or resentful and
The Stevens family offers advice for caregivers.
this can be a sign that you need help. Consider safety issues, living alone, falling, confusion and cooking as you care for a person with dementia. If your loved one is diagnosed with dementia, look into adult day services. Adult day programs offer a safe, secure and enjoyable environment outside the home to allow caregivers a needed break. Mike states, “Without a respite program it would be impossible for me to even accomplish simple outdoor chores such as mowing the lawn. Pines Respite has been a prayer answered. Their staff is caring and just can’t be beat. Without them I couldn’t have made it through this past year.” For more information on respite programs, call the Branch-St. Joseph Area Agency on Aging at 517-279-9561 ext. 137 or toll-free at 1-888-615-8009.
Region IV Area Agency on Aging Covering Michigan’s Great Southwest including Berrien, Cass and Van Buren counties
Are You at Risk of Falling?
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n Berrien County, the Falls Prevention Task Force was formed by key organizations serving older persons to stop the alarming incidence of falls in the community. Local data has shown that falls are the single most likely event to send
quences of falls by older people. A packet of information was created with self-administering guidelines and checklists to make older persons and their caregivers aware of the risks of falls, to give doctors tools to distribute, to provide information about improving strength and balance and to Data has shown that falls are the single make homes safer. most likely event to send older persons to Included are a the emergency room. flyer and tear sheet listing fall older persons to the emergency room, risk factors such as age, medical conoften followed by an epidemic of hip ditions and medication use. Since injuries, hospitalizations, subsequent most falls happen at home, a Home disabilities and even death. So the task Safety Assessment assists in evaluatforce decided to do something to help ing home safety. And, because mainstop the painful and costly consetaining strength and flexibility is key Winter 2005
to fall prevention, there’s a list of health clubs, exercise classes and walking clubs for people to take advantage of. The information has been widely distributed through physicians’ offices, pharmacies, senior centers and partici-
pating agencies, and is being circulated throughout the region. For more information, call the Senior Info-Line at 1-800-654-2810. 15
ValleyArea Agency on Aging Serving Genesee, Lapeer and Shiawassee counties
Helpful Resources for Alzheimer’s Caregivers
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he Valley Area Agency on Aging Region 5 receives grant money from the Department of Community Health for the purpose of Alzheimer’s caregiver education. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, affecting as many as 4.5 million Americans. Currently in Genesee County alone, there are over 9,000 individuals diagnosed with this disease. In partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association’s Greater Michigan Chapter, the East Central Region provides educational programs and support services to those living in Genesee, Shiawassee and Lapeer counties. The East Central Region provides Helpline services during regular business hours (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.), but
individuals calling after these hours can access the National Contact Center by calling 1-800-272-3900. By calling this toll-free number, the caller will speak directly to a person who can assist with any questions or concerns. The office conducts community presentations and educational workshops for family members (including the person with Alzheimer’s disease), professionals and the general public. Recent educational workshops included “Getting Through the Holidays” at Devonshire Retirement Village in Lapeer, “An Overview of Alzheimer’s Disease” at Shiawassee Medical Care Facility in Corunna and “Partnering with Your Doctor” at Lapeer County Medical Care Facility. In addition to these presenta-
tions, the East Central Regional office maintains a resource lending library. Safe Return is a national program designed to identify, locate and safely return individuals who wander. This program is offered in Genesee County at no additional charge. Recently the East Central Region received a grant from HealthPlus of Michigan that provides a limited number of scholarships for the registration cost of this program. Finally, through the Respite Care program, they can offer caregivers $500 over a 12-month period to bring in a respite care worker, so the caregivers can have a much-needed break from their duties. For additional information regarding these programs, please contact our office at 810-720-2791 or 1-800-337-3827.
Tri-County Office on Aging A consortium of Clinton, Eaton and Ingham counties and the cities of Lansing and East Lansing
Consumer Choice: In-Home Services
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he Tri-County Office on Aging (TCOA) places a very high priority on consumer choice.This has been especially true over the years with regard to in-home services: personal care, homemaker and in-home respite. TCOA was one of the first Area Agencies on Aging to switch from one annual contractor per county for the three in-home services to a direct purchase of service system (DPOS). Most of the home health care agencies in Clinton, Eaton and Ingham counties participate in this process. DPOS agreements lock an agency into a unit cost for a year but do not commit TCOA to use any particular agency. With this change, clients are able to choose a home care agency. 16
choose, train and supervise DCW that provide in-home services. DCW will receive support and training.The consumer will have the opportunity to choose their level of involvement in arranging for care. TCOA is pleased to be a pioneer in home and community-based services and a partner with the Michigan
Using the DPOS agreements allows consumers to choose and/or change direct care workers (DCW). It also allows them the important choice of the time of day when the service is provided. For the next phase in consumer COA was one of the first Area Agencies on choice for home and Aging to switch from one annual contractor community-based per county for the three in-home services to services,TCOA will be participating in a a direct purchase of service system (DPOS). “Cash and Counseling” grant through Department of Community Health in the Michigan Department of Commuthis change in service delivery. nity Health from the Robert Wood For further information, contact Johnson Foundation. Consumers who Tri-County Office on Aging at 517-887-1440 wish to participate will receive educaor 1-800-405-9141. tion and information on how to Michigan Generations
Region VII Area Agency on Aging Serving Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Gratiot, Huron, Isabella, Midland, Saginaw, Sanilac and Tuscola counties
Caring for Your Loved One, Caring for Yourself
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re you providing care for or worrying about an elderly family member? Would you like assistance during the day? Do you need time and space to remain an effective caregiver? Seasons Adult Day Services may be the answer. Seasons is a state-of-theart adult day care center in Midland. The Midland County Council on Aging, also known as Senior Services, is committed to a comprehensive program to serve those who cannot stay at home by themselves. Family members are encouraged to visit (an appointment is suggested) and observe a typical day at Seasons. Scheduled daily activities include exercise, discussion groups and special interests and hobbies. Music, dancing,
Seniors thrive in the supportive environment of Seasons Adult Day Services.
gardening, current events and arts and crafts motivate seniors and increase their self-esteem. Holiday festivities and birthday celebrations turn ordinary days into special occasions. Social stimulation helps your loved one maintain his or her memory and ability to function. A supportive environment
celebrates individual achievements and abilities. Comfort, safety and security are a top priority.Wellbalanced meals and snacks are included as well as dignified assistance with feeding, bathing, dressing and grooming. The convenient hours are Monday through Friday, from 6:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Safe door-to-door transportation is available for Midland County residents. For further information, contact Region VII at 1615 South Euclid Avenue, Bay City, MI 48706 or call us toll-free at 1-800-858-1637.The Midland Council on Aging’s toll-free number is 1-800-6382058 or 989-633-3700.
Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan Serving Allegan, Ionia, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo and Osceola counties
Respite and Resources for Caregivers
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aring for a family member or friend at home, with its rewards and trials, can be a 24-7 job — leaving a caregiver with very little time or energy. The burnout that often results is the bane of family caregiving. “Because we recognize that family caregivers face unique challenges, we are going to expand our caregiver respite certificate program to all West Michigan counties we serve,” explains Barbara Nelson, rural counties contract coordinator at the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan (AAAWM). “Our goal is to help family caregivers get the breaks they need to avoid burnout,” she says. “A family caregiver can cash in the certificate for one day of in-home, on-site or Winter 2005
overnight respite. It can be used at any of our contracted respite care providers.” Already established in Kent and Mason counties, the caregiver respite certificates will now be available in Allegan, Ionia, Lake, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo and Osceola counties. Family caregivers in West Michigan will also have new opportunities to learn about caregiver education and support. The Caregiver Resource Network (CRN), a collaboration of elder service providers established in Kent County in 2001, is expanding to all the nine counties served by AAAWM. “We know that family caregivers are often very isolated, particularly in rural counties. The hardest thing is
being alone,” says Nora Barkey, contract coordinator at AAAWM. CRN members have developed fact sheets for each county, which include information about adult day services, respite, support, a nurse support line and family caregiver resources. Each county will host a traveling display that includes books, articles, information on medical and legal issues, and many other caregiver resources. “This should reach a lot of people who’ve often said, ‘We wish we had heard of you sooner,’” says Barkey. For more information on the Caregiver Resource Network and respite certificates, call the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan at 1-888-456-5664. 17
NEMCSA Region 9 Area Agency on Aging Covering 12 counties of Northeast Michigan
Alzheimer’s Support and Education
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he Greater Michigan Alzheimer’s Association Chapter covers the Northeastern Region with their offices in Alpena and Midland. The Northeastern Regional Alzheimer’s office covers 11 counties of AAA Region 9’s area, with Mid-Michigan Alzheimer’s staff assisting persons in Arenac County. Families dealing with Alzheimer’s and related dementias benefit from support groups, educational workshops for caregivers and professionals and scholarship offerings for Adult Day Services respite and the Safe Return program.Working with the Area Agency on Aging and various Councils or Commissions on Aging, the Alzheimer’s Association has become the source for information, education
and referral Educational to dementia material and services in support servNortheastern ices for families Michigan. dealing with Caregiver the decline of support cognitive abiliAlzheimer’s Association regional staff were on hand for the Iosco County Memory Walk, one of six events held in the groups are ties of a loved AAA Region 9 area. Proceeds from all the Walks in our area held in coopone are availgo toward education and support services for families eration with able at all throughout Northeastern Michigan. Iosco, Otsego, COA and senArenac, Oscoda and Roscommon ior centers. COA and senior staff are counties’ Councils or Commissions on ready, willing and able to help families Aging. All AAA Region 9 counties have with questions and concerns regarding support group meetings coordinating all types of dementia. with various agencies and organizaTo learn more about this exciting tions. Please call the Alzheimer’s office opportunity or for more information, at 1-800-337-3827 to learn where your contact your local ombudsman at 1-866local caregiver support group meets. 485-9393 or 989-356-3474 ext. 230.
Upper Peninsula Area Agency on Aging Serving all 15 counties of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
The Upper Peninsula’s Senior Help Line
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primary role of all Area Agencies on Aging is the provision of information and assistance to address the needs of seniors and their families and caregivers. To this end, the U.P. AAA has established a toll-free telephone number known as the “Senior Help Line.” The Senior Help Line is supported by trained information and assistance specialists who have a comprehensive
database with information about agencies and services across the Upper Peninsula. The database contains information from over 500 agencies and nearly 1,000 programs. Most calls received so far have been inquiries concerning health-related and medical problems that involve Medicare and Medicaid benefits, prescription drug coverage and the AAA’s Care Management Program. Currently the Senior Help Line is staffed by trained MMAP (Medicare/ Medicaid Assistance Program) counselors. The U.P. Senior Help Line is available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Carolyn Young is one Carolyn King staffs the Senior Help Line.
of the primary AAA employees responsible for staffing the Senior Help Line. Carolyn says that the calls she receives most frequently are requests for information on Medigap policy, Medicare-approved discount cards or low-cost or free prescription drugs. Carolyn knows the information she gives callers is helpful, because she has received many thank-you notes and many repeat callers. In addition to information about services in the Upper Peninsula, the Senior Help Line can also link callers to information about services outside the Upper Peninsula through its membership with the National Eldercare Locator Network. To access the U.P. Senior Help Line and talk to an information specialist, call 1-800-33-UPCAP (1-800-338-7227). Michigan Generations
Senior Resources of West Michigan Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, serving the three counties of Muskegon, Oceana and Ottawa
Caregiving... It’s About You, Too
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caregiver is anyone who is responsible for helping someone manage daily life. Fifty-six percent of caregivers experience stress and anxiety; another 54 percent are concerned about their ability to provide quality caregiving. Today family caregivers are supporting our entire health care system by providing more than 80 percent of all home care services, according to the National Family Caregivers Association. Caregivers can get help through this stressful time. The Caregiver Support Line, a service of Gerontology Network, focuses on you, the caregiver, and your needs by asking, “How are you doing? What are you going to do today?” Any caregiver over the age of 60 or
anyone caring for someone over 60 years old is eligible to call with questions and concerns. You don’t need to be a member of any group or program. You don’t have to be using any of Gerontology Network’s other programs or services. All you need to have is a question or a concern. A registered nurse will conduct an assessment of you based on your needs. This assessment covers topics such as your health, stress levels and questions about caring for your loved one. Do you take enough time for yourself? The nurse will work with you to create a care plan. Here you will identify things to do to ensure your own health. Together you and the nurse
will create a callback schedule to provide ongoing support toward meeting your goals. Call the Caregiver Support Line at 616-771-9714 or 1-800-730-6135 ext. 714, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Your message should include a convenient time for the registered nurse to return your call. Please allow 48 hours for the return call. Any caregiver living in Kent, Osceola, Allegan, Ionia, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana or Ottawa counties may call. For further information, contact Senior Resources of West Michigan at 231-739-5858 or 1-800-442-0054.
playing cards again — we used to play a lot. And he’s interested in model railContinued from page 7 roading, so we’re going to set up a track soon. I just try to keep his brain engaged them to think can help,” says Denlinger. and working.” “It’s like flexing your muscles. Exercising Since researchers don’t know exactly your brain is important.” what causes Alzheimer’s, they can’t Beatrice LaPorte knew this intuadvise how to prevent it. Several studies, itively. Her husband, Rodrigue, 77, began though not conclusive, have suggested a having slight memory problems about 10 largely vegetarian diet high in betacarotene and vitamins E and C may lower a Alzheimer’s disease is the third most expensive person’s risk of Others disease to treat, behind heart disease and cancer. dementia. have shown, again inconclusively, that years ago, which progressed gradually active hobbies, such as ballroom dancing, but were never diagnosed. When the can provide some protection. couple moved to Midland from North “Basically, it’s all the things your Carolina last April, Rodrigue’s new mother told you that you should do — doctor put him on two anti-dementia eat right, exercise and live a healthy medications — Arasapt and Amenda. lifestyle,” says Dr. Judith L. Heidebrink, While Beatrice, 75, thinks the drugs co-chair of the Michigan Dementia Plan have helped Rodrigue, she does her part Committee and co-investigator with the as well. “I play a guessing game with him Michigan Alzheimer’s Disease Research to try to shore up his memory,” she says. Center at the University of Michigan. “I’ll say, ‘Do you remember this?’ and “And we know that not smoking and eat‘Do you remember that?’ I’ve gotten him ing a low-fat diet reduces your risk for
cardiovascular disease. Habits such as using seat belts and wearing helmets can reduce the risk of head injury. Both cardiovascular disease and head injury can lead to dementia. So, in general, leading a safe, healthy lifestyle will probably improve your chances of avoiding Alzheimer’s and other dementia.”
Dementia
Winter 2005
Hopeful outlook The future holds promise for those suffering with Alzheimer’s. Researchers are studying new medications that work in an entirely different way from current drugs on the market. They have also had success in animal trials with a vaccine that actually reverses the damage to the brain cells. Human trials have already begun. And researchers at the University of Michigan are studying the use of PET scans as a way to identify the earliest stages of the disease. “In the next five to 10 years, I think we are going to see tremendous strides not only in improving patients’ functioning, but perhaps in actually arresting or reversing the disease,” says Hough. “I think we are in a very hopeful time.” MI 19
Ten Warning Signs of Dementia
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MEMORY LOSS. While it’s normal to forget appointments, names or telephone numbers, those with dementia will forget such things more often and not remember them later. DIFFICULTY PERFORMING FAMILIAR TASKS. People with dementia often find it hard to complete everyday tasks that are so familiar we usually do not think about how to do them. They may forget the steps for preparing a meal or using a household appliance. PROBLEMS WITH LANGUAGE. Most people sometimes have trouble finding the right word. People with dementia often cannot remember simple words and instead use inappropriate fillers, making it difficult to understand their sentences. DISORIENTATION TO TIME AND PLACE. It’s normal to occasionally forget the day of the week or where you are going. People with dementia can become lost on their own street, forget where they are and how they got there and not know how to get back home. POOR OR DECREASED JUDGMENT. People with dementia may sometimes wear totally inappropriate clothes, such as a bathrobe while shopping or several blouses on a hot day. They may give away large amounts of money to telemarketers or pay for home repairs they don’t need.
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PROBLEMS WITH ABSTRACT THINKING. Balancing a checkbook can be challenging for anyone. People with dementia could forget completely what the numbers are and what needs to be done with them. MISPLACING THINGS. Anyone can temporarily misplace a wallet or the keys. A person with dementia may put things in completely inappropriate places — an iron in the freezer or a watch in the sugar bowl. CHANGES IN MOOD OR BEHAVIOR. Everyone has mood swings from time to time. Someone with dementia can have rapid mood swings — from calm to anger — for no apparent reason. CHANGES IN PERSONALITY. People’s personalities commonly change a little with age. The personality of a person with dementia can change dramatically. About 15 to 20 percent of people with Alzheimer’s become anxious, suspicious or fearful. LOSS OF INITIATIVE. People with dementia may become very passive, sitting in front of the TV for hours, sleeping more than usual or not wanting to do usual activities. Source: Alzheimer’s Association
SPONSORS Gentiva Health Services Serving clients in Lansing, Jackson, Flint, Saginaw, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Muskegon and Southfield. Call today to set up your personalized homecare services. 1-800-322-7111.
Presbyterian Villages of Michigan Senior Living Communities Celebrating 60 years of serving seniors of all faiths throughout Michigan. To find out more, visit our website, www.pvm.org, or call 1-313-537-0000 for a brochure describing the variety of housing and services Presbyterian Villages of Michigan offers.
Health & Home Services Unlimited, Inc. Care, companionship and peace of mind. In-home or wherever your residence may be! We specialize in meeting your needs — from personal care to home maintenance. Insured and bonded. 1-800-314-8718.
Visiting Physicians Providing compassionate, high-quality medical care in the home. We serve communities across Michigan, Ohio, Chicago, Atlanta and Milwaukee. Services are covered by Medicare and most other insurances. Call 1-877-HOUSE-CALL or visit www.visitingphysicians.com.
Thanks to these companies and organizations for their generous support. For more information on becoming a sponsor of Michigan Generations, please call Jenny Jarvis at 248-262-9202 .