Ageless

FOR THE ACTIVE, 50-PLUS CENTRAL OREGONIAN • HEALTH, LIFESTYLE, ENTERTAINMENT & ADVICE

Ageless THE KIDMAN Meet Don Leet, national mountain bike champion

FOOD FOR THOUGHT Improve your brain power

KEEPING A MEDICAL JOURNAL Good records can keep you in good health

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Ageless Fall 2011 Ageless Features Half Kid, Half Man ............................................................. 4 Don ‘Kidman’ Leet works hard, plays harder, and shows no sign of slowing down.

Honoring Wisdom ............................................................17 Croning ceremonies celebrate the passage of women into the ‘third stage’ of their lives.

Food for Thought ............................................................. 20 When considering your diet, select foods that can give your mind a boost. Includes some thought-provoking recipes.

The Magic of Music ......................................................... 23 Learning a musical instrument later in life improves coordination both physically and creatively.

Information & Advice Contributors ................................................................................. 4

A magazine featuring health, entertainment, lifestyles and advice for the active, 50-plus Central Oregonian.

Achieve Better Balance ................................................................ 9

Ageless is a product of The Bulletin’s Special Projects Division,

Balance Exercises ...................................................................... 12

1777 SW Chandler Ave., Bend, OR 97702, and printed by The Bulletin Western Communications Commercial Print Division. Ageless is produced in partnership with the Central Oregon Council on Aging.

Record of Good Health .............................................................. 14 Safe at Home .............................................................................. 26 Medicare News .......................................................................... 28 Is a Reverse Mortgage Right for You?........................................ 30 Legal Advice: Prepare and Protect ............................................ 32

COCOA News Message from the Director ........................................................ 34 Food Programs .......................................................................... 35

All content is the property of The Bulletin/Western Communications, Inc. and may not be reproduced without written permission.

Ageless Staff Members Martha Tiller, Special Projects Manager Stacie Oberson, Special Projects Coordinator Ben Montgomery, Special Projects Editor Nicole Werner, Special Projects Assistant Lyle Cox, Special Projects Photographer Clint Nye, Graphic Designer Jay Brandt, Advertising Director Sean Tate, Advertising Manager

Fundraising Event ...................................................................... 37

Story ideas may be submitted for consideration to Ben Montgomery, editor.

Contact him at 541-383-0379 or via e-mail at bmontgomery@bendbulletin.com.

For advertising, call 541-382-1811.

Free Home Safety Evaluations................................................... 37

Published Thursday, Oct. 27, 2011

Financial Planning ..................................................................... 36

Ageless | Fall 2011 | 3

Ageless CONTRIBUTORS ANNISSA ANDERSON, a Bend freelance writer and public relations consultant, is also a culinary school grad and worked as a pastry chef. She writes regularly for The Bulletin and other local publications and was a contributing writer in a recent edition of Best Places Northwest. Though she’s lived in the Northwest for the past 20 years, she spent her childhood living and traveling abroad.

Writer and singer/songwriter LAUREL BRAUNS is a regular contributor for The Bulletin. She is currently teaching guitar and exploring Bend’s legendary running trails. She performs music around town with her band, the Sweet Harlots.

KRISTY HESSMAN has written for a variety of publications including The Associated Press wire service.

She is a native Oregonian and active Bendite. Her garage currently contains three bikes, two backpacking packs, one tri wetsuit, a bouldering crash pad, two sleeping bags and four pairs of running shoes.

SONDRA HOLTZMAN is a record keeper of an evolving life. A professional artist and founder of The Traveling Studio, her journals and sketchbooks reflect explorations afar and close to home. Sondra is a published author, storyteller and travel writer and loves kayaking with her dog, Scout.

Enthusiastic and outgoing, BRIDGET MCGINN enjoys meeting new people and sharing their stories. She spends her days working as a marketing and advertising professional, making photos or documentary films and spending time with her family. She may also be seen being dragged along the end of the leash of her newly adopted puppy.

KATHY OXBORROW owns Oxborrow Consulting, which assists public and nonprofit agencies. She grew up on a Nevada cattle ranch and returned to her roots after stints in San Francisco and Portland. She lives near Bend and enjoys riding her horse, Sara.

ROBERT SPRINGER is a freelance writer living in Sisters. He has worked in the banking, television and information technology industries. In addition to writing, he enjoys being delightfully distracted by his school-age twins.

BUNNY THOMPSON is an internationally published writer living in Sisters. She cruised on a sailboat for six years and 40,000 miles where she wrote a novel and published travel and adventure articles in national and international magazines. She’s an avid cook, outdoor enthusiast and loves the Central Oregon snow.

4 | Ageless | The Bulletin

Ageless THE ACTIVE LIFE

Half Kid, HALF MAN

Don ‘Kidman’ Leet works hard, plays harder, and shows no sign of slowing down.

by Robert Springer, for The Bulletin Special Projects “Old age is like everything else. To make a success of it, you’ve got to start young.”

— Theodore Roosevelt Don “Kidman” Leet did. The avid biker and owner of Bend’s Sunnyside Sports always knew that what he did or didn’t do at an early age would have repercussions as he grew older.

“If I had something to tell a young person it’s that what you do at 13 is going to affect you when you’re 60,” he said. “But you can’t tell them that because they won’t understand it.

“I never played football, so I didn’t do a sport that destroyed my body. I have friends who have no knees. I’m not condemning football, but it is a sport that can damage your body.”

Aging well has been a lifelong process for the 60something Leet, who says that age really is a state of mind. Eating right, not smoking and a bit of luck don’t hurt, he said, but having the attitude of a young person is the key to living well at any age.

“You have to keep challenging yourself,” he said. “I started learning Spanish at 46; now I’m fluent. Last year I started taking piano lessons from my wife. I love it; it’s a huge addition to what I do.”

You can’t help getting older, but you don’t have to get old.

— George Burns Photos by Lyle Cox Ageless | Fall 2011 | 5

“A lot of people just tend to fall into the trap of being older,” Leet said, agreeing with Burns. “I don’t know what it is because I’ve never felt it, but I’ve seen it.

I think, gosh, that person does not have to act old. They’re not old, they’re not sick, they’re not in a wheelchair — why do they have to act old?”

Having younger people in his life is just as important as diet and exercise to aging well, Leet said.

“I’ve kept younger friends throughout my life; it keeps me young,” he said.

“You need to keep that idea of being young, of not being set in your ways.

“My wife, Kathy, and I use humor.

We laugh at the aging thing. My wife is a piano teacher so we’re around young kids. And the people who work at the store are younger. I feel that’s been a real plus in my life.”

Although he’s healthy, Leet does have one malady: cycling disease. He’s been competing in bike races since he was 16, except for a break when he was in the forest service.

Leet won a national championship, his f irst, in mountain bike cross country this year. He loved the event, but was a bit surprised at the short length of the course.

“It was the first time I raced that the race was shorter because I’m older,” he said. “I was a little put off because I really don’t feel older. It was about nine miles long but really steep. They figured it would take an hour, but I did it in 49:50.”

It would be quite an understatement

to say that Leet has been a successful bike racer. Asked how many races he has won, he laughed and said, “You mean, this year?”

In his age category, he’s the current Oregon mountain bike and cyclo-cross champion. He also won this year’s Sisters Stampede and Pickett’s Charge mountain bike cross country races.

The nickname, Kidman, suits Leet, who attacks life with the intensity of a 3-year-old. Yet his youthful outlook has nothing to do with how

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“A lot of people just tend to fall into the trap of being older. I don’t know what it is because I’ve never felt it, but I’ve seen it. I think, gosh, that person does not have to act old. They’re not old, they’re not sick, they’re not in a wheelchair — why do they have to act old?” ingenious of her. I mean, here her sister is married to this man, but he looks an awful lot like a boy.”

D on s t i l l work s f u l l t i me at Sunnyside, but no longer handles day-to -day operations. He is transferring ownership of the store to the employees.

“I’m kind of like the Queen of England — I don’t have a job, but I’m the honorary leader,” he said.

Don Leet with his wife, Kathy.

he got the moniker.

“After we were married, we went to Europe with Kathy’s family,” he said.

“I think I was 21 and her younger sister was 16. Her sister looked at me and couldn’t figure out whether I was an adult, like her parents, or a kid, as I was close to her age.

“So since she couldn’t figure it out, she came up with the phrase ‘Kidman.’ I thought it was ver y

Leet was a two-time medal-winner in September’s USA Cycling mountain bike races in Bend, placing first in the 2011 Mountain Bike XC Nationals and second in the Marathon Mountain Bike Nationals.

“The trick is growing up without growing old.”

— Casey Stengel Don Leet seems to have the “trick” down.

“When I look in the mirror, I’m reminded that just because you have grey hair doesn’t mean that there are things you can do and can’t do,” he said. “Don’t contemplate on ‘I’m too old to do this’ because you’re probably not.”

Ageless | Fall 2011 | 7

Cycling Groups in Central Oregon

Central Oregon is home to a number of cyclists of all levels and all ages, many of whom regularly gather for group rides.

Hot Sprockets, for instance, is a senior-friendly group that has weekly rides — usually Mondays and Fridays — as well as bike trips.

Learn more at http://sites.google.com/site/bendhotsprockets.

Also, many local bike shops, including Sunnyside Sports, Hutch’s and Pine Mountain Sports, organize group rides. Contact the shops as many are transitioning to winter activities.

Sunnyside Sports 541 382-8108 sunnysidesports.com Hutch’s Bicycle Stores Two locations in Bend; one in Redmond.

Hutchsbicycles.com Pine Mountain Sports 541 385-8080 Pinemountainsports.com

BikeCentral.org has a calendar of group rides, a list of bike shops and maps of popular rides.

8 | Ageless | The Bulletin

Ageless TO YOUR HEALTH

Achieving Better

Balance

by Bunny Thompson, for The Bulletin Special Projects

Maintaining good balance becomes increasingly important as we age, preventing falls and ensuring an active lifestlyle.

Ageless | Fall 2011 | 9

For most of us, walking along a busy street while searching for a building address or bending down to pick up a coin you just found on the sidewalk, are physically possible. You don’t give them a second thought.

But, if you experience problems with balance, these simple, everyday tasks can become disorienting causing momentary dizziness and even leading to dangerous falls.

Balance is the ability to maintain the center of gravity of your body generally in line with your feet. To do this, your brain receives input from three sources: your eyes; your inner ear, called the vestibular system; and the sense of the relative position of your extremities called proprioception.

Once the brain sorts all of this

in older adults.

Staying active and strong can help slow this natural decline.

“A general de-conditioning and loss of muscle strength is one of the reasons for loss of balance. A daily exercise program can help and the more variety the better,” said Dr. Rogers.

Exercise programs such as yoga, Pilates, swimming and hiking can reinforce your kinesthetic self in space and strengthen your muscles as you move into new positions or feel pressure on your foot in different ways.

You can also stimulate your senses by using each one separately.

“I recommend patients begin by standing on one foot as you brush

“Remember, [balance is] a ‘use it or lose it’ proposition. You have to work to strengthen your body, but over time, you will get stronger.” information out, it sends a message to move your body in a way that will preserve balance.

“As we age, any one of these systems can give incorrect information or a lack of information,” said Dr. Sean Rogers, an internal medicine specialist at Bend Memorial Clinic. “The brain doesn’t know what to do with this information. Add the fact that our reflexes slow with age, and it makes it harder to catch ourselves if we fall.”

Age-related decline in any of these systems contributes to poor balance and increases our risk of falls.

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), one in three adults fall each year. These incidents of falling incur injuries and hospitalization, even death in some cases, and falls are the primary source for broken hips

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your teeth,” said Dr. Rogers. “You can progress to standing on one foot and closing your eyes for a few seconds.

Remember, it’s a ‘use it or lose it’ proposition. You have to work to strengthen your body, but over time, you will get stronger.”

Age-related balance is typically a peripheral problem and not a central nervous system. The symptoms — dizziness, stumbling or clumsiness, and trouble focusing or tracking objects — are similar to the symptoms of a stroke.

According to Dr. Rogers, the general age-related decline of balance is a slow progress. The symptoms generally last only a second or two and usually go away if the person stands still, holds onto something, or possibly closes their eyes.

for more information about balance — the symptoms, the causes, the treatment — visit the Vestibular Disorders Association (VEDA) website at www.vestibular.org.

Stroke symptoms of vertigo, disorientation and nausea come on suddenly and more severely. They last longer, are more violent and should be addressed immediately.

For those with persistent balance disorders, physical therapy can help. A physical therapist can perform tests to determine how well you are, or are not, using these sensory systems.

“Over time, we tend to develop a dependency on vision to correct balance. We become very reliable on this particular sensory function and we overuse it,” said Stuart Johnson, a physical therapist specializing in vestibular therapy at the Rebound Physical Therapy Clinic in east Bend. “As we age, our vision tends to decline and it’s not as reliable in the dark or on busy streets where there is a lot of people, noise and lights.”

Vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) is an exercisebased program designed to retrain the brain to recognize and process signals from the vestibular system and coordinate with both the vision and proprioception sensory systems.

The therapy often involves desensitizing the balance system to movements that provoke the symptoms, such as the dependence on your eyes.

A physical therapist will evaluate you by observing and measuring posture, balance and gait, how well you track an object with your eyes and head movement, and how you compensate for specific movements.

After an evaluation, the PT will develop an individualized treatment plan that can include specific head, body, and eye exercises. These exercises are designed to retrain the brain to recognize and process these signals and make your sensory systems coordinate with each other.

Usually, this type of treatment lasts only a few weeks, and patients find that their balance improves, muscle tension, headaches and fatigue diminishes and symptoms of dizziness decrease or disappear.

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Ageless | Fall 2011 | 11

Balance for YOUR HEALTH

Improve Your

Balance Try these simple exercises, suggested by the Mayo Clinic, to stabilize your balance and your life.

WEIGHT SHIFTS

Start with your feet hip-width apart and your weight equally distributed on each foot. Shift your weight to the right side, lifting your left leg off the floor, and hold for as long as you can (up to 30 seconds). Return to starting position, then repeat on the other side.

SINGLE-LEG BALANCE

Start with your feet hip-width apart and your weight equally distributed on each foot. With your hands on your hips, lift your left leg off the floor and bend it back at the knee. Hold the position as long as you can (up to 30 seconds). Return to starting position, then repeat on the other side.

SIDE-LATERAL RAISE

Start with your feet hip-width apart and your weight equally distributed on each foot. Hold a dumbbell in your right hand and raise your arm perpendicular to the floor. Lift your right leg and band it back at the knee.

Hold the position as long as you can (up to 30 seconds). Return to staring position and repeat on the other side.

12 | Ageless | The Bulletin

BICEPS CURLS

Start with your feet hip-width apart and your weight equally distributed on each foot. Hold a dumbbell in your left hand with your palm facing forward and lift your right leg, bending it back at the knee. Hold the position as long as you can (up to 30 seconds). Return to starting position and repeat on the other side.

SHOULDER PRESS

Start with your feet hip-width apart and your weight equally distributed on each foot. Hold a dumbbell in your left hand and hold your arm up until your forearm is perpendicular to the floor. Lift your right leg and band it back at the knee. Hold the position as long as you can (up to 30 seconds). Return to starting position and repeat on the other side.

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Ageless ORGANIZE YOUR LIFE

Record of

GOOD HEALTH Keeping a medical journal will allow you to better track and control your way to optimal health.

by Kristy Hessman, for The Bulletin Special Projects Part of staying healthy as you age often means taking more trips to the doctor and accounting for more prescriptions. Keeping track of it all can sometimes be challenging.

That’s why medical professionals suggest keeping a medical journal to track things like changes in your health, new fitness regimens and added medications.

14 | Ageless | The Bulletin

“A s we get older, t he v i sit s to doctors and other health professionals get more frequent and our memory for the timing of various medical events gets foggy,” said Patricia Buehler, M.D., M.P.H. at AgeWiseMD in Bend.

Medical errors are often made w h e n i n a c c u r a t e i n fo r m a t i o n is transferred about a patient to a doctor or a medical facility. Being given a medicine you are allergic to, taking the wrong medicine or having

the wrong lab test completed are all avoidable errors with a medical journal.

“A personal medical journal is an invaluable tool that will help you and your doctor,” Buehler said.

A journal comes in particularly handy in the case of unforeseen medical issues while you are traveling or if you have to see a new doctor.

Starting your own personal medical journal can be as simple as compiling your information in a notebook or

binder. There are also journals that you can buy in book format or download on you Kindle or other electronic device.

“Many people carry a list of their medications to bring to a doctor’s appointment, but there are so many other valuable pieces of information that can be kept,” Buehler said.

Once you decide to start your medical journal, Buehler suggests including the following items:

“A personal medical journal is an invaluable tool that will help you and your doctor. ... Many people carry a list of their medications to bring to a doctor’s appointment, but there are so many other valuable pieces of information that can be kept.”

• Emergency contact information • Insurance information • A living will • Organ donor form • Family medical history • Lab test results • MRI or other radiology reports or special testing • Eye glass and contact lens prescriptions • Dental cleanings/appointments/ procedures • Immunization record • Surgery log including: dates, surgeon, facility, outcome, reactions, Illness • Hospitalization log • Log of visits to the doctor • Prescription medications • Over-the-counter medications

long have you had it? What makes it worse or better? And what have you tried to help it?

Statistics from the Appointment including: weight, height, blood pressure, pulse, Doctor’s diagnosis, test or lab work ordered, newly prescr ibed or changed medications, side effects of any recommended treatment and the recommended follow-up.

“Remember that the journal will have sensitive information so be sure to keep the journal private,” Buehler said.

While medical journals are particularly good for those who are getting older as they may accumulate more medical issues, they can be a useful tool at any age.

“Everyone should have a medical journal,” Buehler said. “What a wonderful gift to give yourself or your loved one for the holidays, a personal medical journal.”

Once your journal is created, you should bring it with you to all of your medical appointments. Not only is it good to reference when your doctor asks you about your health history, it’s also a good tool to have with you when you fill out health forms.

Once you’ve visited the doctor, you’ll want to add an entry in the journal that covers the following information: The date and time of the appointment.

Doctor’s name and specialty. If you were referred to the doctor by someone else and whom?

Reason for appointment, including symptoms and their severity. How often does it occur? How Ageless | Fall 2011 | 15

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Ageless CELEBRATING OUR LIVES

Honoring

WISDOM

by Bridget McGinn, for The Bulletin Special Projects

Croning ceremonies celebrate the passage of women into the ‘third phase’ of their lives.

Crone. For many, the word conjures up images of a wrinkled, bent woman dressed in black with a wart on her nose.

But that is changing, says Beth Patterson, 56. Earlier this year Patterson facilitated a croning ceremony to celebrate the traditional passage into the crone stage of life for women.

Honoring this rite of passage is an ancient tradition, Patterson says, that is being revived in many places.

“There is a need for it. In an unmarked life that melds from one thing to another, people do not have a solid understanding of who they are right now,” said Patterson. “The purpose or role of a rite of passage is to give the person a bigger understanding of the connections between themselves and the generations ahead and the generations behind.”

Maria Wattier, 64, a semi-retired spiritual director, went into the ceremony not knowing quite what to expect, but found it to be validating.

“To recognize and be recognized in this part of our lives is very exciting,” said Wattier. “We are full of wisdom, and there seems to be a need for wisdom in our culture right now.”

“I had been thinking a lot about how as an aging woman—I still struggle to say that—in this culture how little support we have,” said Linda Johnson, 60.

A businesswoman and former Bend City Council member, Johnson also participated in the croning ceremony.

Beth Patterson (left) / Photo by Nicole Werner

Ageless | Fall 2011 | 17

“And the women at the ceremony were hugely supportive, both the younger and the older women,” said Johnson. “It was clear to me that we still have a lot of fire in our bellies to be productive. And to have that honored and acknowledged was huge for me.”

Patterson agrees wholeheartedly.

“There are not nearly enough ways of honoring our wisdom as we age,” she said.

Fur ther more, she says, many aging women cling to youthful ways of thinking and acting that do themselves a disservice.

“We need to learn to let go—to close that door and open another one,” said Patterson.

explore life’s questions more deeply.

A ceremonialist with an interest in rites of passages for people at all ages, she felt compelled to find a way to help women transition into and honor the crone phase of their lives.

And so, last January, Patterson invited a group of friends to meet at Silver Falls Lodge outside of Salem to participate in a croning ceremony. Sixteen women attended the retreat; the eight women over the age of 55 were honored with a rite of passage ritual.

I n pla n n i ng for t he ret re at, Patterson said she really didn’t have much information or precedence to go on. There are some pagan and

It was an amazing experience, said Patterson, to sit back and allow the younger women to plan and carry out the ceremony.

“At the retreat, I realized how difficult it is to allow myself to be taken care of — to allow someone younger than myself take care of me,” said Johnson. “It brought up issues of feeling irrelevant or of no use that I think were shared by the other older women. But even in the course of thinking or saying that, you realize that of course we have value.”

The ceremony itself consisted of the younger women leading the elders to the ritual site accompanied by drums and rattles. They crossed

WISDOM

crowned crones providing each of them with a blessing.

“Sometimes it was tears, sometimes laughter, and it took two full hours — the crones have things to say,” laughed Patterson. “We all left the retreat feeling so full.”

“Becoming an elder in our culture is not really talked about, but it should be something to celebrate,” said Wattier. “This image we have of a little old lady is so not true. The women I know are very dynamic and have a lot to give.

“Did you know that the word ‘crone’ actually u sed to mean ‘crown’? We have turned that word into something else. But there is a movement now to change that. It’s

connections between themselves and the generations ahead and the generations behind

RITE O OF PASSAGE SS G Sometimes i iit was tears ...

HONOR HO ... sometimes laughter Typically referred to as the third stage of life following the maiden and mother phases, the crone phase is generally post-menopausal. But, says Patterson, a croning ceremony can be performed at any time a woman feels is right.

“Women know where they are at in their lives,” she said. “They will know if and when it is the right time for them.”

Patterson, who currently serves as the operations director for the Central Oregon Council on Aging, is also the founder of Finding Ground, a resource for those who wish to

18 | Ageless | The Bulletin

Wiccan ceremonies that might be similar, she said, but essentially the process was organic and grew from the group itself.

“I planned it out four different ways, and by the time I left for the retreat, I still didn’t know how it wou ld go,” s a id Pat ter s on. “ I thought, ‘Oh well, I guess it will just come to me,’ and it wasn’t until we were all there in a circle that I looked at the faces of the women around me and realized, ‘Oh, that’s why I couldn’t understand—the younger women are supposed to lead the ceremony!’”

over a wooden threshold covered in moss and sat in a circle facing inward.

T h e e l d e r s we r e s p r i n k l e d with water from the river nearby, received crowns made of lavender, moss and twigs from the forest, and shared their visions for how they wanted to live their lives.

Music, mask-making, meditation and dancing were also part of the experience.

The morning after the ceremony, the younger women found themselves in the center of the circle of women, with the newly

not like we are alone.”

Johnson concurs.

“There are a lot of us out there with a lot to give and with a lot of capacity,” said Johnson. “There are enough of us in this first wave of baby boomers that we should be able to shift the conversation; I hope that can happen.”

B et h P at t er s on i s c u r rent ly making plans for the next croning ceremony and retreat, to be held around this time next year. To learn more, contact Beth at beth@ f indingground.com or 541-2640029.

Respecting Our Elders Throughout the world there are many different ways of showing respect for elders. Following are a few such examples:

Japan

Each year “Respect for the Aged Day” is celebrated, an event that does not occur in the United States. Most grandparents still live in the same home as their children and grandchildren, and in public, Japanese elders are treated with respect and politeness. Elders are called “Ojiichan” (grandfather) or “Obaachan” (grandmother), even by strangers.

The Philippines

Filipinos follow a custom of showing respect to elders called the Mano. The Mano (“hand”) involves slightly bowing to one’s elder while taking the elder’s opposing hand and respectfully placing it to one’s own forehead.

Filipinos call their elders “Po” and older siblings, cousins and family friends “Kuya” and “Atee.”

China

In China there is a tradition of “filial piety” that was championed by Confucius. It would be considered dishonorable in most Chinese families for elderly relatives to be placed in a retirement home; this would be seen as abandoning their family. Instead, extended families live together, and the parents help raise their children’s children and, in turn, are cared for as they age. In China, greetings are formal, and the eldest is always greeted first.

Native American Culture

There are approximately 530 different tribes that make up Native Americans, and their customs differ widely. In general, however, Native Americans share a respect for family and elders. Native American children are taught not to engage in direct eye contact with their elders, as that is considered a sign of disrespect. Elders play a strong role in traditional families by passing down wisdom and learning, and all members of a tribe care for the elderly.

Latino Cultures

Latino cultures embrace the notion of “familia,” which means family in the extended sense, including immediate family members, cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents. “Abuelos” and “abuelas” (grandfathers and grandmothers) play an important role in the family, sharing wisdom with the younger members.

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Ageless YOUR NUTRITION

Food for

THOUGHT Consider foods that give your brain a boost.

by Annissa Anderson, for The Bulletin Special Projects When people think about maintaining their health, they usually think from the neck down. But your brain health plays a critical role in almost everything you do: thinking, fe el i ng, remem b er i ng, wor k i ng, playing, and even sleeping.

helps maintain healthy connections among brain cells.

Physical exercise is essential for maintaining good blood flow to the brain, and also works to encourage new brain cells. It can significantly reduce the r isk of hear t attack, stroke and diabetes, and thereby protect against those risk factors for Alzheimer’s and other dementias.

Adding certain foods to your daily diet may help you feel alert and sharp all day long.

The good news is that there are things you can do to help keep your brain healthier as you age. Adopting these few healthy habits now might also reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias later in life.

Although some r isk factors for Alzheimer’s disease are genetic, others can be mitigated by making brain healthy lifestyle choices, including stay ing physically, mentally and socially active, and adopting a brain healthy diet. Staying mentally and socially active is not only enjoyable, but can reduce stress levels, which

Medical experts now suggest a minimum of 30 to 60 minutes per day of cardiovascular exercise, says Annie Williamson, a registered dietitian at Bend Memorial Clinic.

Many of the other factors that affect overall brain function can be tied into nutrition. Maintaining a healthy blood pressure level and avoiding gaining weight are two main factors that are directly affected by what we eat.

“If you’re making healthy dietary choices,” says Williamson, “these things go hand in hand.”

DID YOU KNOW? : According to Annie Williamson, registered dietician at Bend Memorial Clinic, some studies

have suggested that the consumption of saturated and trans fats may lead to a decline in brain function, perhaps increasing the chance of Alzheimer’s disease.

20 | Ageless | The Bulletin

Antioxidants are also plentiful in whole grains, nuts and seeds which contain higher quantities of Vitamin E, says Williamson.

B Happy

For optimal brain function, Williamson suggests augmenting your diet with foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and B vitamins and avoiding saturated fats and trans fats.

“Some studies suggest that saturated fats and trans fats may increase the chance of Alzheimer’s disease and a decline in brain function,” says Williamson.

Most of these “bad fats” are found in meat and dairy products and in processed foods.

Good Fats

The best source for omega-3 fatty acids (or “good fats”) is through the consumption of fatty fish. The fatty acids in fish — especially cold-water fish, such as wild salmon or sardines — decrease inflammation, improve cardiovascular health, help lower cholesterol, and improve blood pressure, says Williamson.

Omega-3 fatty acids are also available in some oils, like flax seed oil.

“But, you don’t get as much benefit from the plant sources as you do from the animal sources,” says Williamson. “The EPA and DHA in fatty fish have the most protective value.”

Darker is Better

When it comes to nutrients in vegetables, the general rule of thumb is that deeply colored foods are higher in protective antioxidants like vitamins C and E, and beta-carotene.

Carrots and sweet potatoes, for example, are rich in beta-carotene, and red bell peppers and citrus fruits are especially high in vitamin C. Dark, leafy green vegetables like spinach and kale are bursting with antioxidants.

“Antioxidants, which attack free radicals, are believed to help prevent some cancers and stroke, which affects brain health,” says Williamson.

B vitamins are some of the more important nutrients in a brain healthy diet. Folic acid helps to prevent neural tube defects and higher levels of Vitamins B-6 and B-12 decrease levels of homocysteine.

“High levels of homocysteine may increase the risk of heart disease and stroke, which would negatively affect brain health, and B vitamins are believed to protect a g a i n s t t h a t ,” s a y s Williamson.

Grain products — like cereals and breads — are the foods that are richest in B Vitamins.

In the United States, all g rain product s are required to be for tif ied w ith B vitamins.

A secondary source can be found in seafood, fish and animal products, though most Americans eat enough grains to cover recommended amounts of B vitamins.

Getting sufficient a mo u nt s o f o m e g a -3 fatty acids, antioxidants and B vitamins can be easy if you eat a healthy diet. Staying away from processed foods that may contain saturated fats, trans fats and refined sugars that counteract good health and add unwanted weight can be more difficult.

“Maintaining a healthy body weight is important,” says Williamson. “So it is always good to avoid food with empty calories, like cookies, candy and soft drinks.”

MIND-HEALTHY RECIPE

Kale Salad with Pumpkin Seeds (Serves 4)

Using raw kale as a salad green is a great option for increasing your consumption of brain healthy antioxidants. This salad brings out the best in kale, a phytonutrient-rich food that provides more of the antioxidant vitamin C than other leafy greens.

Crunchy pumpkin seeds add texture, and added nutrition.

Ingredients: 1 bunch lacinato kale, stems removed and leaves thinly sliced 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil Juice from 1 lemon 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 1/4 medium red onion, halved and thinly sliced 1 ripe avocado, cut into chunks 1/4 cup raw pumpkin seeds

Method: 1. In a large bowl, combine kale, olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of sea salt. Massage kale with your hands for a few minutes until it begins to break down and turn bright green.

2. Add remaining ingredients and season to taste with sea salt and pepper; toss gently to combine. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Ageless | Fall 2011 | 21

MIND-HEALTHY RECIPE

Walnut-Basil Pesto with Penne (Serves 4) Using walnuts in pesto in place of pine nuts not only makes it more affordable, it adds important omega-3 fatty acids into your diet. Be sure the walnuts you use are fresh; older walnuts can taste bitter.

Ingredients: 1 large bunch fresh basil (about 4 ounces) 1/3 cup raw walnuts 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus 1 tablespoon for topping 2 large cloves garlic, peeled Juice of 1 lemon 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 1/2 pound whole-wheat penne pasta

Method:

1. Bring a large, salted pot of water to boil.

2. Rinse basil and spin dry. Discard stems. Place leaves in food processor and pulse until finely chopped.

Transfer to bowl. Place walnuts, cheese, and garlic in food processor and pulse until finely chopped. Return basil to food processor and, while running, add lemon juice and 1/4 cup olive oil in a slow stream until incorporated. Season with sea salt.

3. Add penne to boiling water and cook to al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain and toss with about two-thirds of the pesto, or to taste. Serve immediately, topped with remaining Parmesan cheese.

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Ageless THE ETERNAL STUDENT

The Magic of

MUSIC

by Laurel Brauns, for The Bulletin Special Projects

Joan Sloan / Photos by Lyle Cox

Learning a musical instrument later in life benefits your coordination both physically and creatively Have you always wanted to learn an instr ument but never had the time? For older Central Oregonians, re t i re me nt m ay b e t h e p e r fe c t opportunity to pursue this lifelong dream.

There are numerous resources in the area to realize this goal, from private lessons to large ensembles, s o whatever you r sk i l l level or preference, there is a situation suited for your needs and learning style.

There are numerous benefits to playing music later in life.

For instance, learning a musical

instrument is a great way to stay yout hf ul. It exercises t he brain, combats hearing loss, and provides a great social atmosphere to meet other music-minded friends.

W h i le le a r n i ng a ny t h i ng new as an adult can be humbling and intimidating, the rewards of selfe s t e e m a n d s e l f-wo r t h g a i n e d from acquiring a new skill may be particularly important for people who no longer have a full-time career and family to fill their days.

“To be progressing on the violin has brought so much richness to

my life,” said 80-year-old Pat Hunt, who retur ned to the instr ument after 50 years. “After retiring, it was something I could work at and enjoy and get better at.”

For Hunt and many others who return to the instruments of their yout h, mu sic ha s a rev it a lizi ng effect.

Tom Nag y, for exa mple, s a ng with his three brothers as a child.

His father would accompany the quartet on the piano or accordion, and the boys would make informal performances in the homes of friends

and family. Nagy sang in college, but in the decades that followed, he hummed nary a note. When a fellow Eagle Crest resident suggested that he try singing at his neighborhood talent show, he signed up for voice lessons at the Cascade School of Music (CSM), where he was pleased to find out he could still carry a tune.

“Learning these songs has been great mental stimulation,” Nagy said, who was currently perfecting a piece from the musical “Oklahoma” at this time of this interview. “Whenever I am exercising at the gym, or on a Ageless | Fall 2011 | 23

Play Together Two local bands/orchestras remain open to adults and seniors who are either new to playing or who are picking back up instruments they played years ago:

Cascade Horizon Band

With more than 50 chapters across the country, the Horizon band is designed to provide a fun and comfortable atmosphere for adults who wish to return to the musical instruments they played in high school or college. For those who have never played before, the willingness to take lessons and a desire to learn is all that is required. The atmosphere is non-competitive and there are no try-outs and seating assignments, but participants should plan to attend one rehearsal a week on Tuesday evenings at the High Desert Middle School. For more information visit www.cascadehorizonband.org or call 541.388.3651.

Watch them perform: Sunday, Jan. 29, 2012. 2 p.m., Winter Concert at Sisters High School; Monday, Jan. 30, 2012, 2 p.m., 8th Anniversary Concert at Bend High School

Desert Sage Orchestra

This string ensemble grew out of a string class taught by Michael Scott at CSM and is now directed by Julia Bastuscheck. The group is open to anyone with at least two years of experience on their instrument and it is open to all ages.

(The current 26-member orchestra has members ranging in age from 10 to 80plus) Music is selected from all periods and styles, and the focus is on developing skills and technique to play more difficult music and to work together as an ensemble. For more information visit the Cascade School of Music at www. ccschoolofmusic.org or call 541.382.6866.

Watch them perform: Sunday, Dec. 10, 2 p.m. at Central Oregon Community College; Saturday, June 2, 2012, 7 p.m.: The Creshendo Bendo at the Tower Theatre along with other ensembles organized by the Cascade School of Music. Suggested donation: $5

24 | Ageless | The Bulletin

For many adult students, music was something they put off and put off. Now they are playing in a group setting with some proficiency, and for them that is such a fulfilling dream come true. long drive, I go through the songs, and it’s great for my memory.”

For 75-year-old Joan Sloan, playing her harp is a form of therapy. After her husband suffered a stroke five years ago, she began studying the harp with CSM’s Becky Smith, and found it to be a relaxing and healing activity that she could do in her ow n home, while also providing a needed social network.

“I enjoy getting out and being with the group (of other harpists),” said Sloan who, in addition to her private lessons with Smith, also plays with a harp ensemble a couple of times a month. “With my husband in a wheel chair, it is hard for me to get out and be social, so the ensemble is a great outlet.”

Pat Hunt, who plays with the Desert Sage Orchestra at CSM, agrees.

“It is magical to play with a group of

people. It is so much more fun than playing by yourself,” Hunt said.

Beyond the proven social and mental benefits of learning an instrument as an adult, some studies have shown that playing music decelerates the physical effects of aging like dementia and hearing loss.

“Learning an instrument slows the aging process,” said Michael Scott, an instructor of string instruments at CSM. “You have to keep your hands nimble. Also the calcifying and degradation of the brain slows down through the mental exercise of hand-eye coordination.”

“Play ing a mu sic al instr u ment also involves using the entire brain, integrating the creative right half and the logical left half,” said Julia Bastuscheck, who directs the Desert Sage Orchestra for CSM. Overall, most musicians emphasized that the best part about learning an instrument

The Cascade School of Music provides both group and private lessons for adults and offers the Desert Sage Orchestra, a string ensemble with an emphasis on instruction. later in life was the connection to the community that it provided as well as a sense of purpose and accomplishment.

“This is such a great way to meet new friends as adults,” said Scott. “The (Cascade) School of Music is a community, and many students are friends outside of class and regularly get together to play.”

There are many resources in Central Oregon for adults and retirees who are interested in learning

DID YOU KNOW? :

a new instrument, or brushing up on the skills they acquired as children.

The Cascade School of Music provides both group and private lessons for adults and offers the Desert Sage Orchestra, a string ensemble with an emphasis on instruction. For those with some prior note reading skills, the Cascade Horizon Band is a great option that requires no auditions, but rehearses once a week.

There is an affordable lesson or group for every skill level, and new students are generally welcome to observe a class or rehearsal to find the right fit.

“For many of my adult students, music was something they put off and put off,” said Scott.

“Now they are playing in a group setting with some proficiency, and for them that is such a fulfilling dream come true.”

A study by the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, published in a 2003 edition of the New England Journal of Medicine, demonstrated a strong association between cognitively challenging leisure activities, including playing a musical instrument, and a decreased risk of developing dementia

Ageless | Fall 2011 | 25

Ageless RIGHT AT HOME

SAFE

at home To remain independent at home means confronting the physical challenges inherent in the home as you age.

by Sondra Holtzman, for The Bulletin Special Projects “I have enjoyed greatly the second blooming…suddenly you find — at the age of 50, say — that a whole new life has opened before you.”

—Agatha Christie True to the adage “there’s no place like home,” an increasing number of people over 50 are adamant about remaining in the place they feel most comfortable as they age.

Along with this initial desire comes the challenge of staying abreast of such issues as physical challenges — maneuvering stairs and tight hallways, and design concepts in the home that accommodate the needs of a person advancing in age.

“Most people aspire to live independently for a lifetime,” said Marie Phillis, director for the Central Oregon Council On Aging (COCOA)/RSVP. “However, some who have lived in the same house for a longer period of time get used to their surroundings and are often unaware of simple

26 | Ageless | The Bulletin

steps to take until it’s too late.”

Aside from careful planning in advance for such a time, Phillis offers a few tips you can incorporate now to make your home safer in preparation for the golden years.

1. Test all smoke alarms at least once a month. According to Phillis, the Bend Fire Department has trained RSVP volunteers who have passed a background check to conduct home safety checks for seniors, recognizing where there may be deficiencies that could place them at risk. Woodstoves and fireplace flues should also be inspected annually.

2. If a cane or walker has been recommended to assist you, use it.

Don’t let pride get in the way of safety.

3. Wear sensible shoes and clothing that do not hinder movement. Avoid wearing loose sleeves over hot stove burners.

Ac c o r d i n g t o P o r t l a n d S t a t e University Population Research Center, more than 30 percent of Oregon’s population is age 50 and older. In the five-year period from 2005-2009, this age group accounted for 60 percent of the fire fatalities in Oregon.

4. A lw ay s u s e oven m it t s to handle hot pans. Keep dish towels, paper towels, potholders and other combustible items away from stove burners.

5. Repair frayed electrical cords or replace them.

6. Be aware that new eyeglasses or medications can interfere with your balance.

7. If you have a pet that is likely to get underfoot, watch your step!

8. Maintain a good fitness level, which can greatly reduce physical risk.

Good muscle tone improves balance and agility.

Phillis is enthusiastic about a new COCOA/RSVP program called Safety Outreach for Seniors (SOS) in collaboration with the Bend Fire Department and Cascade Natural Gas. “Our goal is to promote independence for seniors and give them the opportunity to keep their environment safe by making them aware of any deficiencies we see that could put them at risk of fire or injury,” said Phillis.

Falls are the leading cause of hip fractures and traumatic brain injuries among older adults, she says, pointing out that 50-percent of all older adults hospitalized for hip fractures cannot return home or live independently.

“The SOS Program will benefit our older population living independently in Bend by preventing these fall and fire hazards and reducing the number of f ire fatalities and fall injuries t h rough w ides pread com mu n it y efforts,” she said. “By taking the right steps now with a free home safety check, we might be able to prevent a potential risk.”

Trust Home Care in Sisters is a company committed to helping people remain independent in their homes, also offering a free home inspection for the elderly.

“At least one-third of all falls in our ag ing population involve environmental hazards in the home that are preventable,” said co-owner Scott Lanning. “Major hazards include clutter on the floor like magazines or boxes, electrical cords along walking paths, thresholds on interior and exterior doorways, and gloss polish on uncarpeted floors.”

Lanning recommends the following simple precautions that can make staying in the home easier and safer for an older person who desires to remain independent.

• Remove caster wheels from furniture • In the bathroom, mount liquid soap dispensers on the bathtub wall and place non-skid strips or decals in the tub or shower. Install grab bars, shower seals or transfer benches • Wear slippers with non-skid soles • Widen doorways to accommodate walkers, crutches and wheelchairs • Maintain nightlights or motionsensitive lighting throughout the home • Repair cracks and abrupt edges of sidewalks and driveways • Add handrails to all stairs “Approximately 82 percent of all fire deaths occur in the home,” said

“Most people aspire to live independently for a lifetime. However, some who have lived in the same house for a longer period of time get used to their surroundings and are often unaware of simple steps to take until it’s too late.”

Lanning. “Carbon monoxide detectors should be installed on every floor of the house and outside every sleeping area.

“We recommend a 10-year lithium batter y in all smoke alarms and switching out old outlets in bathrooms, kitchens and anywhere else there might be moisture with ground fault circuit interrupter (GFI) switches.”

Lanning added that it’s a good idea to seek assistance in the inspection of the home and the correction of possible hazards.

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Ageless MEDICARE ADVICE

Get Help with Open Enrollment

Central Oregon seniors can get local help with Medicare.

by Lisa Emerson, SHIBA Program Manager, Oregon Insurance Division What is SHIBA? SHIBA stands for Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance Program, which is a federally funded program that offers free and unbiased counseling assistance to seniors and their caregivers regarding health insurance.

“In Central Oregon, more than 34,800 people have Medicare, so the need for local one-on-one Medicare counseling assistance and support is significant”, said Pamela Norr, executive officer of Central Oregon Council On Aging (COCOA), which provides local sponsorship of SHIBA for Deschutes, Crook and Jefferson counties.

The Open Enrollment for Medicare Advantage and standalone Part D prescription drug plans began Oct. 15 and continues through Wednesday, Dec. 7.

“Open enrollment is earlier this year, so there is concern that people will miss the deadline and will have to wait another year to make any changes to their coverage,” Norr said.

28 | Ageless | The Bulletin

During open enrollment, people with Medicare Advantage Plans or standalone Medicare Part D prescription drug plans can review their coverage and make enrollment changes. People with only Original Medicare Part A & B (fee-for-service) and a standalone Part D prescription drug plan may want to use the open enrollment period to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan that includes prescription drug coverage.

“There are a variety of Medicare plan enrollment options, which can be confusing and overwhelming to many people. SHIBA counselors can help,” said local SHIBA Coordinator Steven Guzauskis.

SHIBA Counselors provide free, unbiased one–on–one assistance during annual enrollment and year round.

“Our counselors want Central Oregon residents to know that annual enrollment can be less stressful if you follow the Steps to Annual Enrollment Success,” Guzauskis said.

Steps to Annual Enrollment Success:

1. Watch the mail for information from

your current plan. The company will notify you of changes to your benefits in early fall. Read all the information they send carefully so you understand what is changing and how it will affect you.

2. Find your health insurance cards.

You may need your red, white and blue Medicare card to review benefit details or enroll in a new plan.

If you currently have a Medicare Advantage or prescription drug plan, you may also need that card, which will vary in appearance but has important company contact and personal benefits information.

3. Prepare a list of current prescription medications. If you haven’t spoken with your doctor about your list of prescriptions, now is the time. Make sure you know what each prescription is for, check for contradictions, find out if a generic is available, and eliminate unneeded medication.

Based on your prescription drug list, is your health insurance the right plan for you? Do you have additional costs or restrictions that are problematic?

4. Use the Medicare.gov plan finder

to find plans available in your area.

The plan finder tool will evaluate your prescription list and determine plans in your area that may fit your insurance needs.

Not all companies cover the same drugs, so it’s important have a complete list of your prescription medications when choosing a prescription drug or Medicare Advantage plan.

5. Contact your doctor, hospital and pharmacy if you decide to switch health or prescription drug plans. Not all health and drug plan contract or work with the same providers. Make sure you understand how a switch will affect your access to care.

6. Contact Oregon SHIBA if you need assistance. SHIBA Counselors are available in your area to provide free, unbiased assistance during annual enrollment. They are skilled with the medicare.gov website and speak fluent Medicare.

Guzauskis explained that once you have chosen a new plan, it will become effective on Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012. You will receive important plan information in

the mail, including a new member card and benefits explanation book. Be sure to keep all of the information the plan sends as you may need it in the future. Once your benefits begin, be sure to keep billing statements in a safe place and review them for accuracy.

If you discover your plan does not cover your needs during the year, some discount programs are available.

“In 2012, the prescription drug gap or doughnut hole is continuing t o c l o s e,” s a i d G u z au s k i s .

“Beneficiaries will receive a 50 percent discount on brand name drugs and a 14 percent on generic drugs while in the doughnut hole.”

Many Oregonians with limited income and assets may be eligible for extra help with prescription drug costs through Social Security’s

Limited Income Subsidy Program (LIS). If you feel you may qualify for extra help with prescription drug costs, SHIBA Counselors can assist with the application to see if you qualify.

In 2011, Medicare beneficiaries were g iven more access to prevent ive benef it s. C er t a in preventive services are offered at a reduced cost or free to people on Medicare.

The Annual Wellness Visit is a new opportunity for Medicare beneficiaries to meet their doctor each year and discuss their health needs. Based on your health and family history, the doctor can offer health recommendations.”

Beginning in 2012 Medicare Advantage plans will be working harder to offer 5-star overall quality service. A new special enrollment

period will be available for those wishing to switch into a 5-star Medicare advantage plan. We anticipate plans will be working hard to achieve a 5-star status so beneficiaries will be able to switch into their plan.

Currently, there is only one 5-star Medicare Advantage plan in Oregon, through Kaiser Permanente. We hope more plans will strive for an overall 5-star quality rating in the future.

Local residents can learn more about Medicare by attending Medicare community information sessions by viewing the calendar of events located on the state SHIBA website: www.oregonshiba.org.

To schedule an appointment with a SHIBA counselor, contact COCOA’s helpline at 541-678-5483 or 877-704-4567.

Lisa Emerson has been the Director of the SHIP/SHIBA program since the fall of 2006.

She has a B.A. degree in communications from the University of Oregon.

In 2003, she began her career in public service with the Department of Consumer and Business Services as a Senior Human Resources Analyst.

Prior to state service, Lisa worked for a leader in the insurance and financial services industry for just more than 12 years as a claims representative, with the majority of her work experience as a human resources specialist.

Ageless | Fall 2011 | 29

Ageless FINANCIAL OUTLOOK

Is a reverse

MORTGAGE RIGHT FOR YOU? When considering a reverse mortgage, always weigh both the pros and cons.

by Kathy Oxborrow, for The Bulletin Special Projects You’ve probably heard about reverse mortgages, the ability of homeowners to cash out a percentage of the equity in their homes once they reach age 62 and make no further payments as along as they continue to live on the property.

You may have also heard reverse mor tgages are good options for seniors, or you may have received information telling you to be leery of such transactions.

If you’re considering a reverse mortgage, you must first receive counseling to help you decide if it is the right path for you. Counseling is a requirement by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) before you can receive a reverse mortgage.

“We counsel people to give them options,” said Selef Spragg, housing center manger at NeighborImpact, and a certified HUD counselor. “HUD wants to make sure that people are getting information that is not biased one way or the other and that the person truly understands how this will affect them in the future.”

Once homeowners receive counseling, it’s up to them to decide.

On the pro side, one of the benefits of a reverse mortgage is that you never have to make another mortgage payment. You have a free place to live as long as you pay your property taxes and mortgage insurance and maintain the property.

30 | Ageless | The Bulletin

“Some people just want to live the remainder of their golden years together and not worry about a payment, or they want to have a few extra bucks to go on vacation.”

Another advantage is that you have a chunk of money that you can use any way you wish. You can take the payment in one lump sum or use it as a line of credit, using it as needed.

“Some people just want to live t h e re m a i nd e r o f t h ei r g old e n ye a r s t o g e t h e r a n d n o t wo r r y about a payment, or they want to have a few extra bucks to go on a

vacation,” said Spragg.

A reverse mortgage can put a little extra cash in your pocket so you can enjoy activities in which you might not otherwise not participate during your retirement years.

The disadvantages includes the possibility of going through the money too fast.

“If you need to go to a retirement home, you may not be able to do

that if you’ve used up all your money and social security isn’t going to pay enough,” said Spragg.

Or if you don’t have enough money to pay taxes and insurance, you are at risk of defaulting on your loan agreement.

A reverse mortgage is a loan to you that is paid back to the lender either when they resume ownership of the property after you die or your heirs take out a new loan in order to keep the property.

Another drawback is you don’t have property to leave to your heirs.

Spragg said this is usually not a problem for heirs who generally want their family members to do what is best for them.

Because you have to live on the property for six months and one day of the year, extended traveling is not an option. You can’t spend seven months in your motor home touring or visiting your children and grandchildren who live in another area.

There’s not any right or wrong

decision when it comes to reverse mortgages. It just depends on each homeowner’s situation. Receiving the mandated counseling ensures that you can make the right decision for you.

Spragg said about 75 percent of the homeowners he counsels end up getting a reverse mortgage.

REVERSE MORTGAGE COUNSELING:

NeighborImpact, a Central Oregon nonprofit agency, provides neutral, third-party counseling sessions to educate people 62 years and older about the pros and cons of a reverse mortgage. Contact them at 541-316-2038 or homeownership@neighborimpact.org.

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Ageless LEGAL ADVICE

Prepare

& Protect Why should I prepare my estate plan now?

by Melissa P. Lande, Attorney As an attorney specializing in estate planning and elder law, I am often asked the question, “Why should I prepare my estate plan now?”

There are many reasons to plan. It allows you to determine who will care for you and who will make your financial decisions if you are unable to make those decisions for yourself. It also allows you to control what will happen to your assets after your death.

Since you don’t know when you will die or if you will ever become incapacitated, it is important to plan now while you can.

Planning for your lifetime care and decisionmaking is as necessary as planning for distribution of your assets at death.

Many people become unable to handle their affairs during their lifetime. Planning allows you to appoint trusted people to act on your behalf if you become unable to do so.

You should have a Durable Power of Attorney, Advance Directive and Will or Revocable Living Trust.

A Durable Power of Attorney allows you to appoint a trusted person to act as your agent to handle your finances. That person is nominated by you, and that person is obligated to act in your best interest.

That person can act as your agent while you are competent and if you lose your ability to make

32 | Ageless | The Bulletin

sound financial decisions.

An Advance Directive allows you to appoint a hea lt h c a re r e p r e s e n t a t i ve a n d a l t e r n a t e health care representative to make medical decisions for you if you are unable to make these decisions for yourself. This includes end-of-life wishes about such realities as tube feeding and life support.

If you have not selected individuals to act on your behalf for these major lifetime decisions, a person who you may not have selected could be appointed by a court to make these decisions for you.

If you do not plan in advance,

a third par ty may need to f ile a petition w ith the cour t and req uest t hat t hey, or a not her person, be appointed to act as your guardian and/or conservator to make sure that you are safe and protected financially. The guardian and conservator process can be stressf ul, ex pensive, and take significant amounts of time.

If you designate tr usted individuals to make decisions for you while you are able, this process should not be necessary.

In addition to the Durable Power of Attorney and Advance Directive, you should have a will or Revocable Living Trust which identifies how your assets should be administered after your death. You can specify in your will how you want your assets distributed at your death.

Some people choose a Revocable Living Trust instead of a will. You can appoint a successor trustee in your Revocable Living Trust to act on your behalf if you become unable to make your own financial decisions.

Additionally, the trust may allow you to avoid probate, reduce your estate ta xes, prov ide for your children and protect your privacy.

So, the answer to the question, “Why should I prepare my estate plan now?� is that it may be too late to plan later, and it ensures that your wishes are carried out.

Melissa P. Lande is a partner at Bryant, Lovlien and Jarvis in Bend. She focuses her practice on assisting her clients with estate planning, elder law, wills, trusts, probate, asset protection, guardianships and conservatorships.

Melissa is a graduate of New York University and Washington and Lee University School of Law in Virginia. She is a member of the Oregon State Bar Estate Planning and Elder Law Sections. She and her husband, Mark, have a son, Griffin, and a daughter, Lila.

Ageless | Fall 2011 | 33

COCOA NEWS

Central Oregon Council On Aging:

36 Years Young and Serving Seniors

Pamela Norr, Executive Officer Central Oregon Council On Aging

Many people ask who is Central Oregon Council On Aging (COCOA) and what do we do. COCOA is many things, and all of them are serving seniors.

We are more than 500 volunteers helping meet the nutritional needs of our community through congregate dining and Meals On Wheels to more than 140,000 seniors each year.

We are 15 team members, including case managers, helping to keep seniors independent in their homes as long as possible.

We are the sponsor of programs such as RSVP and Foster Grandparent, deploying senior volunteers into the community in service.

We are programs of service such as: SOS (Safety Outreach for Seniors), YANA (You Are Not Alone, friendly visit program) and SHIBA (Senior Health Information Benefit Assistance), offering free, unbiased Medicare counseling by well-trained volunteers.

However, COCOA also coordinates legal aid services, offers educational classes, and as the Area Agency on Aging, advocates on behalf of seniors at both the state and national levels.

Perhaps the most important component of COCOA is information and assistance.

COCOA is here when seniors, caregivers, family members and friends need assistance,

information, referral services or help. We answered 85,000 such calls last year alone.

As the need for services and the number of seniors continue to rise, we anticipate more calls. No matter what the question, COCOA is the resource for seniors.

COCOA funds and holds responsibility for meal programs, some senior transportation, and sponsors other programs such as Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers,

Computer Help) intergenerational opportunity.

The mission of COCOA is set by the board of directors and upheld by the team and the two advisory boards. The mission — dedicated to promoting dignity, well-being, security and independence for Central Oregon seniors — manifests itself differently in each community, but as we reach out to help seniors, either in their homes, where they congregate or how

By 2020, one in five people will be over the age of 65; by 2030 it will be one in four. Currently, 13 percent of Oregonians are over the age of 65, with more than 76,000 at 85 or above. which generously builds ramps for seniors and the disabled.

COCOA is funded through the Older American Act and by federal and state funding as the Area Agency on Aging. We are also funded as a nonprofit organization through the generosity of local funding sources such as the counties we serve, many local donors and the United Way of Deschutes County.

A major focus of COCOA over the next few years is to increase the educational component of COCOA, including building on the successful TECH (Teen Elder

they participate, COCOA is here to serve.

We want your input as to what seniors would like to hear about, learn about and participate in.

Please email admin@ councilonaging.org or call us at 541-678-5483 with your ideas on what educational topics you would like to see covered.

— Pamela Norr, Executive Officer, Central Oregon Council On Aging

DID YOU KNOW? : In 2025, an estimated 9.5 million senior Americans will experience some form of hunger. That’s about 75 percent higher than

2005 statistics.

34 | Ageless | The Bulletin

Ensuring Good Nutrition

COCOA Meal Programs provide seniors with nutritious meals.

Nutrition is a critical component of good health, an opportunity for social interaction and an absolute for keeping seniors independent and secure.

There are nutrition sites in Crook, Deschutes and Jefferson counties that offer a variety of meals, most during the lunch hour. Funding for these meals comes from federal, state and local sources, in addition to program contributions, donations and hundreds of volunteer hours.

While all meals are overseen by Central Oregon Council On Aging (COCOA), most meal sites are run and managed by local providers and nonprofit organizations. Separately, COCOA also coordinates Meals On Wheels (home delivered meals) to seniors in our community.

The number of days and the kinds of lunches offered vary at each site.

Some include other activities such as dancing, programs and games. The cost of the meal is covered by Older American Act funding provided to COCOA, as the Area Agency on Aging.

Donations for meals are always

gratefully accepted (but are not required) and go directly back toward the meal program.

Generally, seniors must be 60-plus years of age or be the spouse of a senior who is eligible. Serving hours

vary slightly at each site; reservations are not required. Diabetic diets are provided, and meals are generally conservative in fat and salt.

Transportation is provided to and from some locations by Dial-A-Ride.

Please call each site for times and days of each meal. (See list of sites to the right.)

Home- delivered mea l s a re provided to seniors through Central Oregon Council On Aging. If services are needed for home delivered meals, seniors should call 541-6785483 for more information.

Volunteer drivers for the Meals On Wheels program are always needed throughout the tri-county region.

Interested volunteers can do a “test dr ive” with an existing volunteer. Once the application and background check process is complete, they can then volunteer as a relief driver or for scheduled days.

Driving for Meals On Wheels is rewarding and requires minimal commitment. Usually done on a lunch hour, this is also a great way for a company to serve volunteer days.

Donations to help fund the Meals On Wheels program are always accepted and help provide seniors with needed meals to help keep them independent in their homes.

Donations can be sent to: COCOA, 373 NE Greenwood, Bend, OR 97701.

Call 541-678-5483 with questions or for more information.

COCOA Meal Programs Deschutes County:

Bends Community Center 1036 NE 5th Street, Bend 541-312-2069 La Pine Senior Center 16450 Victory Way, La Pine 541-536-6237 Redmond Senior Center 325 NW Dogwood Ave, Redmond 541-548-6325 Sisters Senior Luncheon at Sisters Community Church 1300 W McKenzie Hwy, Sisters 541-678-5483

Jefferson County:

Jefferson Co. Senior Center 860 SW Madison, Madras 541-475-1148

Crook County:

Soroptimists Senior Center 180 Belknap, Prineville 541-477-6844

Other locations providing senior meals: Crooked River Ranch Senior Center Potluck 541-504-8236

Warm Springs Senior Center 541-553-3313

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Ageless | Fall 2011 | 35

COCOA NEWS

Savvy Saving

SENIORS Top 10 money-saving tips for seniors

If you’re liv ing on a f ixed income, every penny counts! Use this checklist to make sure you’re saving money where you can.

1. Current Expenses

Ta ke t he t i me to compi le all of your current obligations (supplemental health insurance, prescription drug insurance, life insurance, etc.) and examine if you have the most cost-effective plan for you and/or if all plans are still relevant. Consult with a tr usted infor mation source before terminating plans.

When assessing your prescription drug plans, consider reaching out to your local State Health Insurance A ssist ance P ro g r a m (S H I P ), w h e re you can get free information about Medicare, including apply for and selecting plans.

Central Oregon Council On Aging coordinates this service locally. Contact 541-678-5483.

2. Health Insurance

If you’re enrolled in Medicare and have limited income and assets, you may be able to put 36 | Ageless | The Bulletin

more than $100 back in your monthly Social Security check and minimize your premiums and co-pays by learning more about Medicare Savings Programs.

There a re fou r d if ferent Medicare Savings Programs that can help with Part B premiums and other costs. Each program ha s a d i f ferent i ncome a nd resource eligibility limit.

3. Prescription Drugs

If you qualify, Medicare’s Extra Help and local prescription drug assistance programs can help you cut your medicine costs.

4. Property Taxes

L egally whittle dow n your annual tax bill with help from local abatement, circuit rider, or work-off programs. On average, you can save $500 to $2,000 annually with this assistance.

5. Phones

In many states, individuals over a certain age qualify for a free cell phone plan. Consider switching from a land line to a free mobile phone. Lifeline also offers a

discount on local phone services for qualified individuals. Each state has its own rules.

6. Volunteering/Community Service

that day so you can receive an additional discount.

9. Estate Planning

If you own your home, it’s your biggest asset. Learn about timely and appropriate ways to leverage your home equity to stay independent.

“Must have” legal documents include a w ill for proper t y distribution decisions, a living will for health care decisions and a durable power of attorney to designate a personal representative in the event of incapacity.

Also, consider a written plan for distributing untitled personal property (e.g., jewelry, furniture, and collectables) to heirs or char it able orga nization s to reduce confusion and family conflicts.

8. Senior Discounts

10. More Help

Get paid to give back—the Senior Cor ps and Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) provide paid stipends for service.

7. Use Your Home to Stay at Home™

Many retailers offer discounts to older customers on certain days of the week. Consider making all your purchases on

Find out what other public benefits you may be eligible for by getting a free online s c re e n i ng t h ro u g h N C OA’s

BenefitsCheckUp® service. Or find help in your area by visiting Eldercare Locator, a service of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.

BenefitsCheckUp® is available at: www.benefitscheckup.org.

Eldercare Locator is at: www. eldercare.gov/Eldercare.NET/ Public/Index.aspx.

For complete story and links associated with each of the above tips, see http://w w w. ncoa.org/enhancing-economicsecurity/ and type in “Top 10 Tips Money Saving Tips” in the search box.

For more information, contact Central Oregon Council On Aging at 541-678-5483.

Reprinted with permission from National Council On Aging: www. ncoa.org copyright 2011

Fundraiser Fun On Wednesday, Dec. 7, Central Oregon Council On Aging will be hosting a special showing of the Bend Experimental Arts Theater (B.E.A.T.) performance of “The Story of the Nutcracker: A Play with Dance” written

by Michele L. Vaca, directed by Patrick Kmiec and choreographed by Mary Kilpatrick. The performance will be held at 2nd Street Theater in Bend.

The opening reception and a silent auction will start at 4:30 p.m. with curtains opening at 5 p.m. A limited number of tickets are available for this special show. Tickets are $15 each.

Funds will benefit Central Oregon Council On Aging and B.E.A.T. A special reception will follow the show where you can meet the actors and partake in hors d’oeuvres and a no-host bar. For more information or to reserve tickets, call 541-678-5483.

Free Home Safety Evaluations Offered The Bend Fire Department, Cascade Natural Gas and COCOA are partnering to protect area seniors.

The Central Oregon Council On Aging (COCOA) RSVP, with the Bend Fire Department and Cascade Natural Gas, are offering a free home safety check evaluation for seniors.

The safety check is being offered through COCOA’s Safety Outreach for Seniors (SOS) prog ram. Trained SOS volunteers w ill evaluate the home environment of seniors, recognizing where there may deficiencies that could place them at risk for injury or death.

Once a volunteer completes the safety check evaluation, the report will be reviewed by the Bend Fire Department. The department will then give appropriate referrals to improve safety in the home.

Such recommendations may include the addition of smoke alarms, the removal of fire

hazards in the home, the inclusion of adaptive items (e.g., grab bars) to prevent falls, and the installation of a home security system. Fraud prevention will also be discussed.

If you are interested in getting a free home evaluation, call RSVP at 541-678-5483 or email mphillis@councilonaging.org.

Seeking Volunteers

Non-seniors may also participate in the program by becoming a trained volunteer.

Bend Fire Department personnel will teach SOS volunteers how to evaluate the home environment for seniors and recognize where there may be deficiencies that could place occupants at risk.

For more information about such volunteer opportunities, contact RSVP at 541-678-5483 or visit www.rsvpco.org.

Ageless | Fall 2011 | 37

Ageless EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR THURSDAY, OCT. 27

SCARY STORIES FOR THE STRONG OF HEART: Heather McNeil shares spine tingling and bone chilling stories; program best suited for adults and older teens; free; 6:30 p.m.; Deschutes Library Administration Building, 507 N.W. Wall St., Bend; 541312-1021.

MILES DAVIS EXPERIENCE WITH AMBROSE AKINMUSIRE: A multimedia musical production paying tribute to jazz musician Miles Davis; featuring photos, film clips, and performance by trumpet phenomenon Ambrose Akinmusire; $30 or $35; 7:30 p.m.; Tower Theatre, 835 N.W. Wall St., Bend; 541-317-0700 or www.towertheatre.org.

THURSDAY-SATURDAY, OCT. 27-29

HISTORICAL HAUNTS OF DOWNTOWN BEND: Walk to six historical buildings that are said to have experienced paranormal events and hear their ghostly tales; $10, free museum members and ages 12 and younger; 4-7:30 p.m.; Des Chutes Historical Museum, 129 N.W. Idaho Ave.; 541-3891813 or www.deschuteshistory.org.

FRIDAY, OCT. 28

OREGON ARCHAEOLOGY CELEBRATION PRESENTATION: Paul Patton presents “Five Crows and the Cayuse War of 1847-55”; free; 7 p.m.; Smith Rock State Park Visitor Center, 10260 N.E. Crooked River Drive, Terrebonne; 541-923-7551.

MOIRA SMILEY AND VOCO: The Los Angelesbased harmony singers perform; $15 suggested donation; 7:30 p.m., doors open 7 p.m.; The Barn in Sisters, 68467 Three Creeks Road; 775-233-1433 or dooleysbarn@gmail.com.

TRIAGE AND SPL: Bass music from Portlandbased and Bend-rooted artists; free; 9 p.m.; Innovation Theatre Works, 1155 S.W. Division St., Bend; 541-977-5677.

SATURDAY, OCT. 29

VFW DINNER: A dinner to benefit the D.A.V. van; $7; 5 p.m.; VFW Hall, 1503 N.E. Fourth St., Bend; 541-389-0775.

SWINGING WITH THE STARS: Local celebrities dance with local professional dancers in a competition modeled on “Dancing with the Stars”; proceeds benefit Central Oregon Sparrow Clubs; $20-$80; 6 p.m.; Bend High School, 230 N.E. Sixth St.; 541-312-8630 or www.SwingingwiththeStars.org.

MY FAVORITE SACRED SONGS: An evening of sacred works, featuring vocalist Cullie Treichler; 38 | Ageless | The Bulletin

proceeds benefit Common Table; $10; 6:30 p.m.; First Presbyterian Church, 230 N.E. Ninth St., Bend; 541-639-5546 or cullie@bendbroadband.com.

ROCKABILLY HALLOWEEN SHOW: Featuring performances by Harley Bourbon, Boxcar String Band and Shade 13; free; 9 p.m.; Innovation Theatre Works, 1155 S.W. Division St., Bend; 541977-5677.

SATURDAY-MONDAY, OCT. 29-31

AN EVENING WITH EDGAR ALLAN POE: A visit from Poe, with tales of remorse, lost love and bad behavior; proceeds benefit the Des Chutes Historical Museum; $10 in advance, $12 at the door; 8 p.m.; The Old Stone, 157 N.W. Franklin Ave., Bend; 541-389-1813 or www.deschuteshistory.org.

WEDNESDAY-SUNDAY, NOV. 2-6

THE NATURE OF WORDS: Central Oregon’s premier literary event featuring creative writing competitions, presentations, lectures and author events; Bend; 541-647-2233, info@ thenatureofwords.org, www.thenatureofwords. org.

BEND SENIOR CENTER 10TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION WEEK: Hats off to the past, present and future; for information about events, call 541-388-3888 or visit www.bendparksandrec.org/ Senior_Center.

FRIDAY, NOV. 4

FIRST FRIDAY GALLERY WALK: Event includes art exhibit openings, artist talks, live music, wine and food in downtown Bend and the Old Mill District; free; 5-9 p.m.; throughout Bend.

DANA AND SUSAN ROBINSON: The Asheville, N.C.-based Americana musicians perform; $15 suggested donation; 7 p.m., doors open 6:30 p.m.; The Barn in Sisters, 68467 Three Creeks Road; 775233-1433 or dooleysbarn@gmail.com.

SATURDAY, NOV. 5

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS COMEDY BENEFIT: Comedy event featuring comics Jake Woodmansee and Jason Love; with food and live and silent auctions; proceeds benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon; $100; Doors open at 6:30 p.m., comedy begins at 7:30 p.m.; Tower Theatre, 835 N.W. Wall St., Bend; 541-317-0700 or www.towertheatre.org.

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, NOV. 5-6

WILDFIRE POTTERY SHOWCASE: The Clay Guild of the Cascades hosts an event of continuous

ceramic demonstrations, potter booths with pieces for sale and more; free admission; 10 a.m.-5 p.m (to 4 p.m. Sunday).; Highland Magnet School, 701 N.W. Newport Ave., Bend; 541-388-2636 or www. clayguildofthecascades.com.

SATURDAY-MONDAY, NOV. 5-7

CENTRAL OREGON SYMPHONY FALL CONCERT: The Central Oregon Symphony performs a winter concert, under the direction of Michael Gesme; featuring a performance by Three Leg Torso; free but a ticket is required; Saturday and Monday at 7:30 p.m., Sunday at 2 p.m.; Bend High School, 230 N.E. Sixth St.; 541-317-3941, info@cosymphony.com or www.cosymphony.com.

FRIDAY, NOV. 11

VETERAN’S DAY PARADE: Annual celebration of Veteran’s Day through downtown Bend and along Drake Park; 11 a.m.

BETHLEHEM INN BENEFIT DINNER: The seventh annual dinner will feature a festive evening of gourmet dining, handcrafted beers and fun; all proceeds to benefit Bethlehem Inn; $80 per person; 6 p.m.; Deschutes Brewery Mountain Room, 901 S.W. Simpson Ave., Bend; 541-322-8768 ext. 21 or http://bethleheminndinner2011.eventbrite.com.

MAIDEN BEND MUSIC FEST: Featuring performances by local female singer-songwriters; a portion of proceeds benefits Saving Grace; $15$30; 7-9:30 p.m.; Tower Theatre, 835 N.W. Wall St.; 541-317-0700 or www.towertheatre.org.

SATURDAY, NOV. 12

HIGH DESERT CHAMBER MUSIC BENEFIT GALA: Includes live music, dinner, a silent auction and a raffle; registration recommended; proceeds benefit High Desert Chamber Music programs; $85; 6 p.m.; Broken Top Golf Club, 62000 Broken Top Drive, Bend; 541-306-3988, info@highdesertchambermusic.com or www. highdesertchambermusic.com.

SUNDAY, NOV. 13

EMPTY BOWLS: Tenth annual event features gourmet soup and a selection of artisan bowls, with live music; proceeds benefit NeighborImpact; $18 plus fees in advance, $20 at the door; 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.; Central Oregon Community College, Campus Center, 2600 N.W. College Way, Bend; 541-280-0284 or www.neighborimpact.org.

WEEKDAY EVENTS SATURDAY, NOV. 19

by vocalist and pianist Diane Schuur; $55; 8 p.m., 5 & 8 p.m. on Saturday; The Oxford Hotel, 10 N.W. Minnesota Ave., Bend; 541-382-8436 or www. oxfordhotelbend.com.

HOLIDAY CRAFT & GIFT BAZAAR: Annual event at Bend Senior Center; 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; 541-388-1133.

ANASTACIA SCOTT ARMSTRONG: The alternative musician performs; $15 suggested donation; 8 p.m., doors open 7 p.m.; HarmonyHouse, 17505 Kent Road, Sisters; 541-548-2209.

FRIDAY, DEC. 2

FIRST FRIDAY GALLERY WALK: Event includes art exhibit openings, artist talks, live music, wine and food in downtown Bend and the Old Mill District; free; 5-9 p.m.; throughout Bend.

THURSDAY, NOV. 24

I LIKE PIE FUN RUN: Run or walk 2K, 5K or 10 miles and eat pie; with a baking contest; registration required; donations benefit NeighborImpact; $5 and five cans of food; 9 a.m.; FootZone, 845 N.W. Wall St., Bend; 541-749-0540, teague@footzonebend.com or www.footzonebend.com.

SATURDAY, DEC. 3

BEND CHRISTMAS PARADE: Parade theme is “Sights and Sounds of Christmas”; free; noon; downtown Bend; 541-388-3879.

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 7

FRIDAY, NOV. 25

THE STORY OF THE NUTCRACKER: Central Oregon Council on Aging will host and benefit from this showing of this Bend Experimental Arts Theater (BEAT) performance; 4:30 p.m. silent auction; 5 p.m. performance; 2nd Street Theater, Bend; $15; 541-678-5483.

HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING: Featuring caroling, music, dance and Santa; 6 p.m.; corner of Newport Ave. and Wall St., downtown Bend.

FRIDAY-SATURDAY, NOV. 25-26

JAZZ AT THE OXFORD: Featuring a performance

WEEKEND EVENTS

SATURDAY, DEC. 10

MEN OF WORTH: The Celtic folk musicians perform; $15 suggested donation; 8 p.m., doors open 7 p.m.; HarmonyHouse, 17505 Kent Road, Sisters; 541-548-2209.

MONDAY, DEC. 19

BRANDI CARLILE: The fast-rising, rootsy singersongwriter performs; SOLD OUT; 7 p.m., doors open 6 p.m.; Tower Theatre, 835 N.W. Wall St., Bend; 541-317-0700 or www.towertheatre.org.

THURSDAY-FRIDAY, DEC. 22-23

JAZZ AT THE OXFORD: A “Tom Grant Christmas,” featuring performances by Shelly Rudolph and Jackie Nicole; $35; 8 p.m., 5 & 8 p.m. on Friday; The Oxford Hotel, 10 N.W. Minnesota Ave., Bend; 541-382-8436 or www.oxfordhotelbend.com.

All dates and times listed are subject to change at any time.

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