SeniorVoice WESTCHESTER
Favorite Holiday Recipes
Meet Our Volunteer Heroes
Will Medicare Save Social Security?
WINTER 2021-2022
EXPERT ORTHOPEDIC CARE
Talent, technology and a superior patient experience combined to provide exceptional orthopedic care, all under one roof at the new Center for Advanced Medicine & Surgery. At White Plains Hospital, our specialists treat all orthopedic conditions from the routine to the complex, utilizing cutting-edge imaging and performing the most advanced procedures in state-of-the-art operating rooms. Our board-certified orthopedic surgeons hail from the nation’s most prestigious medical schools, offering comprehensive, high-quality care and same-day appointments at our brand new facility located at 122 Maple Ave in White Plains.
MEET THE TEAM STEVEN ANDELMAN, MD
JARED BRANDOFF, MD
ANDREW CASDEN, MD
NATHAN DOUGLASS, MD
Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine
Orthopedic Spine Surgery
Orthopedic Spine Surgery
Hand, Wrist and Elbow Surgery
MICHAEL ELIA, MD
PAUL FRAGNER, MD
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JONATHAN HOLDER, MD
Orthopedic Surgery
Hand, Wrist and Elbow Surgery
Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine
Orthopedic Surgery
ISAAC LIVSHETZ, MD
JAMES MCWILLIAM, MD
SYED RAHMAN, MD
MICHAEL SCHWARTZ, MD
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Pain Management
Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine
RICK WEINSTEIN, MD
To schedule an appointment call (914) 849-7897
Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine
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winter 2021
Theideal idealgift gift of of relaxation The relaxationfor forthe the stressfultimes times in stressful in which whichwe welive! live! Spa Facials • Massages • CBD Massages • Body & Laser Treatments • Waxing • More! Spa Facials • Massages • CBD Massages & Laser Waxing • More! Advanced Safety Procedures Meeting•&Body Exceeding NYSTreatments Protocols - •see website
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Contents
WINTER 2021-2022
22
24
features and stories
32 columns and departments
24 volunteer heroes of 2021
10 community: celebrating 30 years
30 how medicare can save social security
12 worth noting
32 favorite holiday recipes
14 out and about 16 thehomeexpert:onlinefinds
more articles
18 legal talk: brady bunch estate planning
20 fluvaccine:it'snottoolate
22 health and wellness: exercise for chronic pain
43 long-term care insurance
42 medicaidadvisor:filingformedicaid
44 shop online like a pro 45 improve your indoor air quality
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winter 2021-2022
We Need to Care for Caregivers As We Care for Our Patients Caregiver Services at Phelps
Have you had this conversation with your members of your family yet: “who will As the population ages and life expectancy becomes longer, we need to ask ourselves ‘Who take care of our loved ones as they age, and is our family prepared to take on the will take care of the older family members as they age”? Caregiving is the ultimate act of love, additional responsibilities of caregiving?” and it requires strength, commitment, and sound judgement. The responsibility of being a
is often stressful andapproximately has become even so during the COVID-19 health In caregiver the United States, there are 61.6more million caregivers providingpublic care at home for emergency. Phelps Hospital’s Care Connections program has partnered with the Westchester family members. With an increasingly aging population, the role of the caregiver becomes an Public/Private Partnership for Aging Servicesand to assist caregivers by offering unique services even more important one, both functionally economically. during this difficult time: Caregiving is the ultimate act of love. It requires strength, commitment, and sound judgment. • Guidance and Counseling from a Caregiver Navigator Caregivers bear a tremendous responsibility. Phelps Hospital’s Care Connections Program and the Westchester Public/Private Partnership for Agingand Services areAmenities collaborating to offer • Care Baskets Containing Resource Material Relaxing caregivers emotional support, counseling, and the resources necessary to navigate the health • Free Educational Workshops and Symposiums care system free of charge. If you need a shoulder to lean on; a good listener to hear your voice; assistance in identifying and addressing health system barriers; an unbiased intermediary to “Withcommunication your supportive and kind I am muchor relieved and have hope. facilitate between you guidance, and your care recipient; a linkage to community resources, care navigator to assist you. Recipient Thanksafor your TLC.” is —available Caregiver Navigation
“With your supportive and kind guidance, I am much relieved and have hope. Thanks for your TLC.” - Anonymous Satisfied Caregiver For more information, contact the Care Connections Program at 914-366-1199 more contact the Care orFor e-mail usinformation, at caregiver@northwell.edu.
Connections Program at 914-366-1199 or e-mail us at caregiver@northwell.edu.
SeniorVoice WESTCHESTER
PUBLISHER Susan E. Ross publisher@westchesterseniorvoice.com 914.380.2990
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Rosemary Black Lauren C. Enea, ESQ. Steven Geiger and Rosemary Stern James S. Feldesman, JD Lynn Lavender Michael Schwartz, MD Donna Moriarty Colin Sandler
CIRCULATION
DISCOVER NEW FRIENDSHIPS
Rare Sales, Inc. / Bob Engelman 914.661.3605
When your loved one has a memory impairment and needs a new home providing support and compassion directly related to the challenges of memory impairment, we invite you to Discover The Greens at Greenwich.
The Greens has been providing excellence in memory care for 20 years. Privately owned memory care assisted living community All inclusive fees Unique programming Recognized leader in providing the creative arts therapies Often called the new best medicine in dementia care, creative arts therapies go beyond painting and singing to provide personal enrichment, empowerment, comfort and joy to individuals who have difficulty communicating in a conventional way.
To our readers: We are able to publish and distribute this magazine through the support of our advertisers. Please let them know you reached out to them because of Westchester Senior Voice. The Publisher is not responsible for errors in advertising or claims made by advertisers. We do not knowingly accept any advertising that violates any law. Opinions, articles and advertising appearing in this magazine should not be construed as endorsement by the Publisher of any product, service, or person.
VOLUME 6.5 WINTER 2021-2022 Copyright © Voice Media LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Westchester Senior Voice Print ISSN 2469-5203 Online ISSN 2469-5211 Publishing Quarterly plus an Annual Guide and the Booming BETTER Expo
When you walk the hallways and gardens of The Greens, you feel truly at home. Home is a Feeling and it lives at The Greens at Greenwich. SCHEDULE A TOUR TODAY Maria Scaros, Executive Director • 203.531.5500 mscaros@thegreensatgreenwich.com • thegreensatgreenwich.com
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winter 2021-2022
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from the publisher FOR THOSE OF YOU who attended our October Booming BETTER Expo, it was absolutely wonderful to see you all there – in person! The weather cooperated and we were able to safely distance inside as well as outside at Manhattanville’s storied Reid Castle. The day was chock full of engaging and thought-provoking talks, workshops and classes – all aimed at helping us create our healthiest, strongest and best lives, and having fun along the way. The ra-e winner of the $250 cash prize was Ron Colombo. Monica Williamson won the grand prize $50ra-e.Congratulationstoyouboth! In this issue, we honor six Westchester residents who giveselflesslyoftheirtimeinvolunteeringforvarious organizations. They are some of the best representatives of finding purpose and fulfillment in retirement, and stand for volunteerism across the county and the country. We thank them for the critical work they do. We are also pleased to bring you Jim Feldesman’s enlightening article on how Medicare is positioned to save Social Security. This is an absolute must-read. In addition, we have our annual holiday recipe section. If you’re game for some new entries into your regular list of favorites, you won’t want to pass these by. Happy holidays and best wishes for a wonderful new year,
Susan E. Ross PublisherandCertifiedSeniorAdvisor® publisher@westchesterseniorvoice.com Booming Better Expo. Pictured top right to bottom right: Ellen Woods and Catherine Smyth - Phelps Hospital/Northwell Health, Lauren C. Enea - Enea Scanlan & Sirignano, LLP, Certified Zumba instructor Amy Olin and class, Heather Ann Reiners, Viviene Williams, and Mary Ellen Burns (left to right) - Westchester County Bee-Line
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winter 2021-2022
Because We Care, 99.5% of Osborn Staff & Residents Have Been Fully Vaccinated Against COVID-19!
Mom Always Helped Us. Now It’s Our Turn To Help Her. The Osborn in Rye offers a highly respected Assisted Living program for residents who need a helping hand with activities of daily living but want to remain independent. For those with memory issues, our award winning H.O.P.E. Center for memory care offers a safe, engaged lifestyle for residents with dementia. At The Osborn, we offer programs for mom’s wellbeing and your peace of mind.
CALL US TODAY AT (888) 9-OSBORN TO SCHEDULE A TOUR OF THESE OUTSTANDING PROGRAMS.
Options for Living! 101 THEALL ROAD | RYE, NY | THEOSBORN.ORG The Osborn is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization accredited by CARF.
winter 2021-2022
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westchesterseniorvoice.com
COMMUNITY
Happy Anniversary, Tranquility!
As if running a business during the to lease the empty space and launch cades ago. “Back then, our clients were pandemic hasn’t been enough of a Tranquility Spa, a modest four-room more into a holistic approach to wellchallenge, Tranquility Spa, located at operation headed by Adelson, o-ering ness, seeking massage as a comple917 Central Park Avenue in Scarsdale, massages and facials. ment to a program of working out and was hit by Tropical Storm Ida in early other exercise. Today, it’s very di-erent September. Deluged with water, which The business outgrew the original space, – the field is much more popular and precipitated a three-week shutdown of moved to Hartsdale and, again, needed mainstream, with spa visitors primarily the spa, Stephanie Hershkowitz (pic- more room to accommodate their grow- seeking pampering and relaxation betured above), general manager and ing client base. In November of 2004, yondpurelyphysicalhealthbenefits.” a principal of the business, saw the Tranquility opened the dual-level spa severe flooding through an optimist’s location they currently occupy in Scars- After the initial shut down from the paneyes: “We took the opportunity to re- dale. It is fitted with over a dozen - demic, mas Hershkowitz and her team made decorate,” she says, “and reopen with sage rooms, as well as changing rooms the many changes needed to create a an all-new ultra-relaxing environment.” and lockers, showers, a luxury lounge safeenvironmentforguestsandsta-. area, snack service, and a continuously Now celebrating 30 years in busi- evolving array of state-of-the-art technol- “Through it all, people keep coming to us ness, Tranquility was founded in 1991 ogiesinthepersonalcarefield. to manage Covid-related stress and for by Hershkowitz’s uncle Dr. Andrew a ‘time out’ and diversion from daily life; Schwartz, along with her mother Billie “Our current location is 6,030 square in some cases, they are grieving the loss Adelson, who had studied to become a feet,” notes Hershkowitz, “with a recep- of a loved one,” explains Hershkowitz. licensed esthetician. As the story goes, tion area of 600 feet. That was just about “But they are also coming to the spa to Schwartz had been frequenting a gym theentiresizeofourfirstlocation. celebrate ” life events, relax together and on Central Avenue when he noticed enjoy some sense of normalcy.” vacant space across the hall. Sensing Hershkowitziswellawareofhow- signifi an opportunity to serve the gym’s cli- cantly the spa industry has transformed “Thankfully, it has worked,” says Hershentele, the brother and sister partnered since Tranquility first opened- three kowitz, de with a sigh of relief. westchesterseniorvoice.com
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winter 2021-2022
Good days are brighter and tough times are easier with the RIGHT COMPANION! Stay in the home you love with help from our skilled, senior-aged companions who can provide a little assistance or full-time help. Call us today! SeniorS Helping SeniorS weStcHeSter/putnam nY 914-263-7716 www.seniorcarenorthwestchester.com
need new ad
winter 2021-2022
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westchesterseniorvoice.com
WORTH NOTING
Your Stories for Future Generations When Covid hit, the Westchester O-ce of Economic Development responded with their Catalyst program to help 1,0 Westches ter residents launch businesses. Participants took advantage of self-paced online course work to evaluatetheirbusinessideas,test themwithpotentialcustomersand implement the plan if it seemed likely to succeed. Resources in cluded mentorship, key personal introductions, and even grants to supportthesenewbusinesses.
futuregenerations-assimple as possible, without the need for video crews, travel ex pensesorhavingstrangersin yourhome.
Starting at $1,50 for a twohour interview, Vogel - pro duces roughly 90 minutes of content.Thevideo,however, is actually several videos a eachstorylivesonasitsown separate video so viewers canlistentoindividualsto without having to sit throu oneentirevideo.
Covid Emotional Support Services
One Westchester resident who television commercials for over 30 years, his took advantage of the Launch 1,0 pro - Vogel decided to interview and record If the client prefers, videos can be stored owndadwhosharedmanylifelessonsand gramwasDavidVogel.Hisconcept:provide and accessed online. Vogel also provides opened the door to Vogel’s next venture. a-ordablevideosofpeopletelling - their sto thumb drives of the videos.To learn more ries,tosharewithlovedones.With - aVogel back makestheprocessofcreatingfamily visitwww.heirloomdocs.com,call914-35 legacy ground in producing documentaries and videos – which can be shared with 36oremailDavid#Heirloomdocs.com NY Project Hope, a Family Services of Westchester program funded by FEMA and overseen by the New York State O-ce of Mental Health, is an emotional support helpline that anyone may call to talk to a crisis counselor about their experiences and to be connected to any resources they may need. The program helps New Yorkers understand their emotions because, “Sometimes it helps to talk with someone you don’t know.”
Volunteers Needed
The Long Term Care Ombudsman Program is a dedicated advocacy program available to anyone residing in a nursing home or other longterm care residence. The program advocates for residents to address their quality of life and qualThe helpline is free, anonymous and confidential. They ity also of care issues, along with their rights. conduct educational presentations and support groups – virtually and in person - for people who have struggled during the Locally, the Tri-County LTC Ombudsman Propandemic. You can connect to the helpline by calling 914gram serves Westchester, Rockland and Put708-6104, weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Learn more about nam counties, and calls attention to the rights Project Hope at nyprojecthope.org. of residents in nursing homes, assisted living, adult care residences and family-type homes.
Outpatient Care
According to Burke’s Supervisor of OutJudy A. Farrell, MPA Program Director Tripatient Occupational Therapy Andrea County LTC Ombudsman Program (LTSullivan, OT, “The renovated facility Burke Rehabilitation Hospital’s reno- presents therapists and patients with COP), says, “We need now, more than ever, vated and retrofitted outpatient therapyto recreate real-life situdedicated volunteers to advocate for nursing the opportunity facility, located on its 61-acre main cam- ations and improve skills that are vital to home and other long-term care residents.” pus in White Plains, o-ers more than daily life. Our goal is for patients to gain 10,000 square feet of dedicated space independence in their homes and reach Certified Ombudsman volunteers can help for physical, occupational, speech and their maximum possible recovery.” ensure the voices of long-term care residents language, and specialty therapies. “The do not go unheard. To learn more about renovations and repurposing of this Burkeo-ersnineotheroutpatientsites making a di-erence as a volunteer with the space will enhance [patient] experience with multi-disciplinary services in the Ombudsman Program, please visit https:// and recovery and are incomparable in NY Metropolitan and Hudson Valley renursinghome41l/ltcop/volunteer or call 914our area,” said Burke’s Vice President of gions. For additional information, visit 500-3406. burke.org. Outpatient Services Steve Tisser. westchesterseniorvoice.com
12 winter 2021-2022
Live Your Best Life
Live at Home. Live at Wartburg. The choice is yours.
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Wartburg Nursing Home Care
Wartburg Memory Care
Wartburg Rehabilitation Center
Wartburg Independent and Assisted Living
need new ad and move to memory care One Wartburg Place Mount Vernon, NY 10552 914-699-0800
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INDEPENDENT LIVING ❘ ASSISTED LIVING ❘ MEMORY CARE ❘ NURSING HOME ❘ HOME CARE INPATIENT REHABILITATION ❘ HOSPICE CARE ❘ CAREGIVER SUPPORT ❘ SPIRITUAL CARE winter 2021-2022
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westchesterseniorvoice.com
OUT AND ABOUT
Live Entertainment Returns to
White Plaiwns Performing Arts Center White Plains Performing Arts Center has returned to live entertainment. Kickingo-thewinterseason A Christmas is Carol: The Musical, featuring Alan Menken (Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid) and Lynn Ahrens (Ragtime, Once on This Island), who breathe fantastic new life into the classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge. The show runs from December 3 through 30.
couples) from The Great Bright Way. Rounding out February, on the 26th, will be Tony Award Winner Lillias White, set to take the audience on a musical journey full of love, light and happiness. Get Some Happy is sure to lift your spirits and make you happy. The show features standards from theworldofBroadway,filmandjazz.
On February 5, 2022, WPPAC pres- WPPAC has installed a state of the ents From Broadway with Love, a art air purification system to combat celebration of some of Broadway’s the spread of Covid. They are located greatest love songs performed by six at City Place in White Plains; 914of the finest vocalists (three328-1600; real-life wppac.com
Through January 23, 2022
Holiday Train Show
Tickets are on sale for one of New York City’s favorite holiday traditions: the New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show! This beloved tradition returns for its 30th year with a miniature wonderland, housed in the warmth of the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory. Marvel at model trains zipping through an enchanting display of more than 175 famous New York landmarks; imagine the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Rockefeller Center, and other favorites each delightfully re-created from natural materials such as pine cones, acorns, and seeds. Advanced purchase of timed-entry tickets is recommended. Go to www.nybg.org/visit/admission/?keyword=tickets
Art Boutique
Pelham Art Center presents its annual exhibition and sale of handmade art items November 27 through December 23. The Art Boutique is an exhibition of handmade artisan gifts and artwork by emerging and mid-career artists. Collect a-ordable artworks and make holiday purchases tha support local artists and the local arts scene. Unique items in a range of media--ceramics, wood, prints, jewelry, accessories and homewares-are available at every price point. The Center is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturdays until 4 p.m. Virtual shopping with curbside pickup is available; contact gallery@pelhamartcenter.org.
In-Person at The Music Hall
Vaccinated individuals can enjoy a variety of holiday entertainment at the Tarrytown Music Hall. First up is Top of the World: A Carpenter’s Christmas on December 17, a tribute band fronted by singer Debbie Taylor who sounds remarkably like Karen Carpenter. On December 18, Cherish the Ladies: A Celtic Christmas, an annual sold-out tradition, will feature this Grammy Award nominated Irish-American female troupe sharing timeless Irish traditions and good cheer. On December 23, The Glenn Miller Orchestra: Home for the Holidays will feature holiday favorites and big band classics. Toordertickets,call914-23856.(Refundso-eredforcancelledevents.)
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winter 2021-2022
Hello, Westchester There’s a new Medicare Advantage plan in town
Westchester's
Winter Wonderland
Westchester’s Winter Wonderland drivethrough holiday light extravaganza - for the kid in all of us - is back this year, at Kensico Dam Plaza. Presented by Westchester Parks Foundation and WMC Health, attractions include a set of elves – Ned and Albert, glittering angels, dancing trees, glowing snowballs, Candy Cane Lane, a spectacular 100-foot light tunnel, a 40-foot Christmas tree and more.
HumanaChoice® PPO is here Humana has added a new plan to the Medicare Advantage choices available in Westchester. That means you might find a better fit for your healthcare needs than you have now.
Benefits, programs and services Humana Medicare Advantage plans may help you to be your healthiest, with attractive benefits and friendly premium prices. More than 9.0 million* people have selected Humana plans.
This new choice Learn what the HumanaChoice® PPO offers. Humana—and your local, licensed sales agent—get to know you, to help with your coverage decisions. Humana goes above and beyond to ease your health journey—for example, helping you find a new doctor. That’s called human care. Say hello to human care. And the HumanaChoice® PPO.
Call a licensed Humana sales agent
Without tra-c, the drive takes - approxi mately 20 to 25 minutes. Once starting on the route, visitors will not be able to leave their vehicles.
Felix Paredes 914-673-7889 (TTY: 711) Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. FParedes1@humana.com humana.com/fparedes
You can enjoy it all from the safety and warmth of your car. Proceeds from the Ask about Humana’s Care Highlight™ program event enable the Parks Foundation to invest in preservation, conservation, use and enjoyment of Westchester’s 18,000 acres A more human way of parks. The festive celebration kicks oto healthcare™ on Friday, November 26 at 6 p.m. and runs for five consecutive weeks, through - Janu *Humana Inc. First Quarter 2021 Earnings Release April 28, 2021 ary 2, 2022. The Wonderland is open seven Humana is a Medicare Advantage HMO, PPO and PFFS organization with a Medicare nights a week; tickets are $25 per vehicle contract. Enrollment in any Humana plan depends on contract renewal. At Humana, it is important you are treated fairly. Humana Inc. and its subsidiaries o--peak and $35 for peak times. Advance comply with applicable Federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate on the ticket purchase is recommended; go to basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender www.showclix.com/event/wwinterwonderland identity, or religion. English: ATTENTION: If you do not speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 1-877-320-1235 (TTY: 711). Español (Spanish): ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-877-320-1235 (TTY: 711). 繁體中文 (Chinese): 注意：如果您使用繁體中文 ，您可以免費獲得語言援助服務 。請致電 1-877-320-1235 (TTY :711) 。 Y0040_GHHHXCYEN_22_AD_M
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THE HOME EXPERT
Online Decor Finds BY STEVEN GEIGER AND ROSEMARY STERN
Ready for a furniture refresh after being cooped up at home for so long? When done right, purchasing furniture and home décor accessories online provides a bounty of bonuses. First, you can read product reviews from purchasers of the items you’re considering. Next, most sites offer up comparable items to your search so you can easily look for similar goods. On top of that, you will usually be presented with images of how the product appears in a room or what it’s matched up with.
You’ve likely already used or heard of OVERSTOCK. COM, a site o-ering every thing from wall mirrors and bathroom vanities to bed linens, outdoor furniture and every conceivable type of lighting. The challenge is navigating so many items for sale. Some help is available with the search filters they o-er.- Look ing for decorative pillows? You can select the price range, colRUGGABLE.COM di-erentiates itself or, dimensions and ask to be from other rug sellers by marketing “ma- shown only the highest rated chine washable” rugs. Their rugs have a results. Given the continued unique layer system so when washing is supply chain backlog, you’ll needed,yousimplylifto-therug’stoplayer appreciate ticking o- the box for cleaning. If you’re wondering about de- indicating “fast delivery.” sign, know that Jonathan Adler has a line of contemporary rugs sold on the Ruggable WAYFAIR.COM has a seemingly endwebsite (see photo top right). less inventory of home goods: from large
Licensed Associate Real Estate Brokers
Overwhelmed by the thought of downsizing? FIRST STOP: Choose the top team for your next move.
Bringing Buyers and Sellers together successfully for nearly 40 years. Steve Geiger 914.263.5275 steven.geiger@raveis.com stevengeiger.raveis.com ONE PALMER AVE
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Also worth mentioning is APT2B.COM, which caters in part to those with smaller living spaces with categories like “apartment size sofas.” Fill in their search box with the word “outlet” and you’ll be taken to their sale page where you can find big savings on select items. We’re fans of their knit blankets and throws. And if you have a yen to relive the 1960s, MODHOLIC.COM has hanging bubble chairs – yes, they do! – and a knock oof the famed Eames tulip dining table, as well as a black leather faux Barcelona chair selling for thousands less than the original. Other favorite websites include HOMEGOODS.COM and CB2.COM. n n n
Filomena Rosemary Stern 914.523.5437 rosemary.stern@raveis.com filomenarosemarystern.raveis.com I
and small appliances, closet systems and bedding to floor tile, furniture and more fo every room in your home. Be sure to read the descriptions carefully as many furniture items, even lighting, may need to be assembled. The good news: During the checkout process, you can opt for and pay an additional charge for installation and/or assembly services. Wayfair also owns Joss & Main, AllModern, Birch Lane and Perigold.
Senior Real Estate Specialists (SRES) Rosemary Stern and Steven Geiger bring an extensive and trusted network of resources and professionals to their clients to assist in all phases of the selling and buying processes. They can be reached at 914-263-5275 or Steven.Geiger@raveis.com
winter 2021-2022
Assisted Living & Memory Care
Enhanced Care Compassionate Support The Chelsea at Greenburgh has been a godsend for our family. This absolutely beautiful venue is such a welcoming haven for our mother and for our family each time we visit. We always wanted our loving mother to transition to a place that is welcoming, caring and safe. We found this at The Chelsea at Greenburgh. The amazing staff members are so supportive. Our mother thoroughly enjoys the variety of engaging events each day plus the social aspect. ~Joan B
chelseaseniorliving.com winter 2021-2022
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westchesterseniorvoice.com
LEGAL TALK
Brady Bunch Estate Planning BY LAUREN C. ENEA, ESQ
Second marriages can feel like a fresh start. But when it comes to estate planning, balancing loyalty to your existing family and children with a desire to provide for a new spouse must be considered, along with the following:
1. INTESTACY In New York, if you die without a properly executed Last Will and Testament, you have died “intestate,” meaning the distribution of your assets will be determined by New York Law. For example, if you are survived by a spouse and children, your spouse receives the first $50, plus one-half of your es tate with your children sharing the remaining one-half. As such, it is important that a Last Will and Testament be executed that properlyreflectsyourwishes.
matically to your surviving spouse. Individuals in a second marriages often keep their assets separate from their spouse and open new joint account(s) for the assets they would want to pass automatically to their surviving spouse.
the surviving spouse’s life. Alternatively, the Trust can provide that the spouse receives the income of the trust for their life. Once the surviving spouse passes away, the remaining funds can then be distributed to the creator’s children.
4. LIFE ESTATES 6. LIFE INSURANCE Another common gesture is to allow the One can name a second spouse as a benesurviving spouse, who does not own the ficiaryonalifeinsurancepolicyasameans primary residence of the couple, to remain of providing for them at death. The insurin the home after their spouse has passed ance can also be owned by an Irrevocable away. However, the remainder beneficia - Trust, which would remove the value of the ries of the property may become concerned insurance from one’s taxable estate upon as to whether the surviving spouse has the death. The trust can provide that the income ability to maintain the home and pay for and/or principal can be used for the support its expenses. Additionally, questions may of the surviving spouse during his or her life. arise as to what to do if the spouse has to go to a nursing home or assisted living facil- Each family’s situation is di-erent and t 2. PRE-NUPTIAL AGREEMENTS ity: does the spouse’s life estate in the prop- list of considerations is not exhaustive and In New York, you cannot disinherit your erty terminate? These are questions that only examples of one’s options. If you are spouse unless you have agreed to in a con- need to be considered. An option may be to considering a second marriage or already tractual agreement, such as a pre-nuptial leave the primary residence outright to the remarried, it is important to speak with an agreement. This is because, under New spouse in lieu of his or her receipt of other estate planning attorney who has worked York Law, each spouse has a right of elec- assets, or to allow the surviving spouse to with clients who have had multiple marriagtiontoreceivethelargerofor $50, one- remain in the home for a period of time, es to discuss structuring an estate plan that third of the deceased spouse’s net estate, such as two years, in order to allow him or fitsyourneeds. known as the “elective share.” Regard- her to arrange for alternative housing. n n n less of what one’s Last Will and Testament Lauren C. Enea, Esq. is an Associate at Enea, Scanlan & Sirignano, LLP. She concentrates her practice in provides, the surviving spouse can still 5. MARITAL TRUSTS seek their elective share, unless they have A trust can be established for the surviving Wills, Trusts and Estates, Medicaid Planning, Guardianships - be cre and Special Needs Planning and Probate/ waived said right in a pre-nuptial agree- spouse’s benefit. These trusts can Estate Administration. Ms. Enea believes it is never to ated within one’s Last Will and Testament or ment. While not the most romantic gesture, early or too late to start planning for your future. She the execution of a pre-nuptial agreement through probate avoidance tools, such as is admitted to practice law in New York and Florida Revocable Trusts. Additionally, the trustmay be prudent before a second marriage. and is an active member of the Executive Committee ees of the trust for the surviving spouse can of the New York State Bar Association (NSYBA) El3. JOINTLY HELD ASSETS be the children, friends or relatives of the der & Special Needs Section. She can be reached at If you and your spouse own property “joint creator of the Trust, who can ensure the 914-948-1500 or at L.Enea@esslawfirm.com. Please with rights of survivorship,” it passes auto- funds are not depleted imprudently during visit www.esslawfirm.com for more information.
What steps have you taken to protect your life savings from the cost of long term care? . Elder Law . Asset Protection . Medicaid Applications (Nursing Home/Home Care) . Guardianships (Contested/Non-Contested) . Wills, Trusts & Estates WHITE PLAINS
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TOP OF MIND
Better Late Than Not At All The Seasonal Flu Vaccine
As we live through another year of grap- as the vaccine doesn’t pling with the pandemic, there are many always exactly match questions about the seasonal infl theuenza current multiple vaccine. Dr. Michael Finkelstein, a board- strains. The vaccine certifiedinternalmedicineandwound composition care is a very physician with Scarsdale Medical Group, educated guess of has come to the rescue by answering what the commonquestions from our community of readers. est strains will be in our area. The vac#1: IT’S ALREADY NOVEMBER; ISN’T IT cinemayhelpyoufighto-theillnessand #4: I’M USING HAND SANITIZER AND TOO LATE TO GET THE FLU VACCINE? keep you out of the hospital or keep you WEARING A MASK. I’M PROBABLY ALIt is never too late to get vaccinated for the from getting secondary illnesses such as READY SAFE ENOUGH. CORRECT? flu. The season lasts through the fall pneumonia. and Take the shot. Hand sanitizer and mask wearing are winter, when it peaks. The vaccine takes great protections to contracting t time to give you immunity so you can be vac- #3: HOW LONG DOES THE However, as an airborne illness, you can cinated through the fall and winter months. INFLUENZA (FLU) VACCINE LAST? still contract it, especially since many It lasts about six or more months so if of us have become a bit more relaxed #2: I GOT THE FLU SHOT A FEW YEARS you were vaccinated in September, you since getting our Covid-19 vaccines. AGO AND STILL GOT THE FLU. SO WHY should be covered through the peak Mask wearing and social distancing SHOULD I BOTHER? season, and still have some immunity pushed the flu rate down in 20-1 You can be vaccinated and still get during a flu early spring. but now we are seeing an increase in
AS YOUR PARTNER IN DEMENTIA CARE, WE’RE RIGHT BY YOUR SIDE, EVERY STEP OF THE WAY
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ur promise at The Kensington is to love and care for your family as we do our own. And we do. As specialists in all aspects of dementia, our programs of care and service are clinically comprehensive, highly personalized and tender. We are skilled and prepared to address the predictable changes that come with progressive memory loss. To better meet resident needs, we offer two distinctive “neighborhoods”— Connections and Haven. In Connections, residents are able to actively participate in daily routines and activities that help them feel safe, secure and successful. In Haven, residents require a higher level of clinical assistance and care that increase comfort and reduce agitation. In both neighborhoods, support for caregivers and families is generous and ongoing, because after all, memory loss is a family affair. Please let us share in your caregiving experience. We will make every effort to improve your loved one’s quality of life to the greatest extent possible. We will also do our best to give you time to recharge — guilt-free — so you can freely enjoy the pleasure of togetherness.
Schedule a visit or call to talk. We’re here for your family, and we’re here for you, too. (914) 390-0800 | 100 Maple Avenue | White Plains, NY 10601 | www.TheKensingtonWhitePlains.com westchesterseniorvoice.com
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cases of flu and especially RSV (respi ratory syncytial virus) in children.
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Along with mask wearing and good hand hygiene, the vaccine is a safe way to prevent additional illness.
#5: I’M ALLERGIC TO EGGS AND HAVE HEARD I SHOULDN'T GET THE FLU SHOT. IS THAT TRUE?
Providing life solutions for seniors and their families Our home visits prevent isolation – no one needs to age alone.
An egg allergy is not a contraindication to flu vaccination. For the current sea son, there are two vaccines licensed for use that are considered egg-free: Flublok Quadrivalent (licensed for use in adults 18 and older) Flucelvax Quadrivalent (licensed for use for ages 4 years and older) Regarding egg allergies, the CDC recommends: People who have experienced only hives after exposure to egg should receive the flu vaccine.Any licensed and recommendedfluvaccine(i.e.any , form of IIV or RIV) that is otherwise appropriate for the recipient’s age and health status may be used. Those who have had reactions to egg involving symptoms other than hives (such as angioedema, respiratory distress, lightheadedness, or recurrent emesis) or who required epinephrine or another emergency medical intervention, may similarly receive any licensed and recommended flu-vac cine (i.e., any form of IIV or RIV) that is otherwise appropriate for the recipient’s age and health status. The selected vaccine should be administered in an inpatient or outpatient medical setting (including, but not necessarily limited to hospitals, clinics, health departments, and physician offices). Vaccine administration should be supervised by a health care provider who is able to recognize and manage severe allergic conditions. A previous severe allergic reaction to flu vaccine, regardless of the - com ponent suspected of being responsible for the reaction, is a contraindication to future receipt of the vaccine.
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#6: I’M OVER 65. IS THERE A DIFFERENT VACCINE FOR ME?
People over the age of 65 or those who are immune deficient should get thewww.conceptcareny.com | 50 Main Street, highdosefluvaccine. 914-682-7990
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White Plains NY 10606
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Exercise: Rx for Chronic Pain BY DR. MICHAEL SCHWARTZ
MY ADVICE? Get moving as often as you can. It may be tough to start out, especially if your pain is wearing you down mentally as well as physically. Let the high likelihood that you will feel better motivate you. Start slow and look for a balance of strength and endurance exercises, while mixing in your favorite aerobic activity – even if that means briskly walking around the block. Bring a resistance band along and stop at your local park or ballfield for some planks and monster walks.
The CDC reports that some 15 million Americans suffer from severe joint pain related to osteoarthritis – and half of them report that this pain occurs almost every day. That’s a staggering number of people who may be putting off activities and sports they enjoy either due to feeling drained by the symptoms of their condition or because they fear exercise might actually make their sore shoulder, elbow, back or knee worse.
Many people su-er chronic joint pain without having a specific structural problem or injury. Oftentimes, this pain happens because the muscles around the You may be surprised to joints are too weak discover that your pain and aren’t able to lessens or seems not adequately absorb as distracting as you get physical stress durstrongerandmorefit.But ing activity. The if the pain persists, don’t result is extra preshesitate to make an apsure and strain on pointment with an orthopedic surgeon the joints, which who can perform an in-depth assessmay already be exment of your condition and even order periencing a wearfunction as a prescription for pain from some imaging to get to the bottom of ing of cartilage: the “cushioning” between the moving parts osteoarthritis without making the condi- the pain. They will be able to work with tion worse – provided you have had no you to develop a comprehensive treatof the joint. ment plan to get you through the rough new injuries like a fall. spots as you embark on your new acDON’T BE AFRAID TO MOVE! Exercise improves muscle strength In addition to muscle conditioning, tive and healthier life. and shock absorption, as well as the moderate exercise helps to stimulate n n n functioning of the fast twitch muscles the flow of fluid that provides nutrients Dr. Michael Schwartz is an orthopedic (for sudden, powerful movements) and and proteins that keep the remaining surgeon with White Plains Hospital slow twitch muscles (for sustained en- cartilage healthy. Exercise can also Physician Associates. He specializes ergy to last a long time) needed for strengthen the tendons, which help supin treatment of the shoulder, elbow anaerobic strength and aerobic mus- port the muscles, as long as cross trainand knee, and sees patients in White cle endurance, respectively. Plenty of ing does not overwork or overstrain one Plains and New Rochelle. Please call 914-849research supports moderate physical muscle or tendon grouping. 7897 to make an appointment.
"Once you find the motivation, movement can actually decrease your pain."
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2021
Volunteer Heroes BY ROSEMARY BLACK AND DONNA MORIARTY
SHARON MCKENZIE
Benjamin Franklin’s observation, “If you want something done, ask a busy person,” sure rings true when it comes to volunteering. The individuals who generously give their time and expertise to others aren’t just sitting around in their down time. They are caring for grandkids, socializing with friends, and attending to other commitments. Somehow, they also manage to squeeze in hours, days and weeks of volunteering -- working heroically and selflessly to improve the lives of others. Here is how (and why!) they do what they do, making them our volunteer heroes.
“The most rewarding part of volunteering for me is that it gives me purpose,” McKenzie enthuses. “It’s not just an act but a mission, a chance to advance world peace.”
Currently, she volunteers for several local organizations. At RSVP of Westchester, McKenzie works to keep the volunteers engaged. “The majority of volunteer stations were shut down due to Covid-19,” she recalls. “So we created a program called Movie Talk to keep the volunteers engaged.” Participants watch a documentary film and then particip 30-minute discussion.
SHARON MCKENZIE of Greenburgh knows what it's like to be busy, and she loves the pace of a packed schedule. She McKenzie is also an active member of the World Peace Orworked for 30 years as a project manager for a company head- ganization SGI-USA, a Buddhist community in the U.S. As a quartered in Rye Brook before taking early retirement in 2015. “member care advisor,” she conducts home visits and o-e Since then, she’s been busier than ever, spending about 40 advice and guidance to members. “I focus on the members hours a week volunteering around Westchester County. And who are 65 and over,” she says. “My work is to empower them andtoo-ermysupport.” she wouldn’t have it any other way. westchesterseniorvoice.com
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In addition to RSVP of Westchester and SGI-USA, McKenzie recently completed Westchester County’s Livable Communities Caregivers Coaching program training. “It is designed to prepare volunteers for an enhanced ‘good neighbor’ role as caregiver coaches,” she says. “These coacheso-erinformationandsupportto family caregivers.” McKenzie, one of seven children, grew up in Tuckahoe and moved to White Plains after graduating from college. When she’s not volunteering, she enjoys listening to music, reading, cooking, and going for walks. She also loves to travel, though that has been more challenging since the pandemic started. Volunteering has also changed due to the pandemic. “Virtually 100% of my engagements and activities have been carried out on Zoom,” McKenzie says. For anyone who is considering becoming a volunteer, McKenzie has this advice: “Find a way to serve that aligns with your true passions,” she says. “Service to your family and community is the only thing that lasts and has the power to enable you to discover your purpose in life. Volunteering will empower you.” WhenMcKenziereflectsonallthehours she has devoted to volunteering, she says she is gratified that she is making adi-erenceinthelivesofothers.“Weall are connected and what we do individually impacts the world,” she says. “It is important to take action and serve as a source of inspiration in your community.” ALAN BEY, 72, who lives with his wife in Scarsdale, retired four years ago after a 46-year career in health care administration. And while his three grown daughters andfivegrandchildrenkeephimfrom be ing bored, he decided soon after he retired that he wanted to volunteer. “I like to be busy and to feel that my life has meaning beyond my wife and children and grandchildren,” Bey says. “I had a really, really busy job, and when I retired at 68, I still had a lot of energy left.”
ALAN BEY
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The six to 10 hours each week Bey now spends volunteering pass quickly. He is on the advisory board of RSVP of Westchester and, under the auspices of the New York State Senior Medicare Patrol, he creates and posts one-hour Medicare classes for baby boomers and seniors. Bey also volunteers at the New York Botanical Garden and Yonkers Partners in Education, where he mentors high school students. With SCORE Westchester, he provides one-on-one counseling to current and aspiring small business owners. Volunteering his time and teaching others is rewarding and meaningful to him. Bey explains, “Volunteering keeps my mind active and my skills pouring back into the community. When I retired, I didn’t want to leave behind the lifestyle where I felt like I was bringing about change in people. So I use the areas in which I have expertise to help others.” After DOT BERMAN retired from her job as a nurse at White Plains Hospital, she began looking for a little something to do as a volunteer. After all, she explains, it would be hard to spend 39 years as an operating room nurse while raising a family and then, suddenly, just do nothing!
With eight grandchildren, the 73-year-old Hartsdale resident still finds - time unteer. She heard about RideConnect, a unit of Family Services of Westchester that o-ers free transportation to 60 and older who need rides to doctors' appointments, the hairdresser, cultural events, or shopping expeditions, and began volunteering with them in 2018. She currently provides three to four rides each week – all around Westchester. One day she might be driving someone to a dialysis appointment and, on another occasion, to the gym or supermarket. “GPS makes it so easy these days,” she says. “I actually don’t mind getting lost, and I love giving a hand.”
RICHARD FERRICANE
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Ferricane knew of the venerable 100-year-old acute rehabilitation hospital and its reputation for treating patients recovering from debilitating injuries and illnesses, from spinal cord injury to heart attack and stroke. Still, his initial visit to Burke was eye-opening. “You walk into this hospital and all around you are people struggling to overcome significan health issues,” he says. “I saw a lot of opportunity to help just by o-ering a hu man connection.” Following Burke’s two-week volunteer training program, Ferricane joined the hospital’s inaugural cohort of Patient Ambassadors, a program launched late in 2018. Two days a week, he is assigned a case load of about a dozen newly admitted patients. He meets with them twice: just after admission and shortly before discharge, with the objective of smoothing the way to a positive patient experience. Burke patients often undergo many long hours of rigorous therapy. They may be dealing with a traumatic injury or diagnosis that has changed their lives forever. It’s a tough adjustment. Ferricane stops by a day or so after admission to get a feel for how a new patient is adapting. He provides resources they might want to access and, oftentimes, he’ll arrange FaceTime calls with loved ones or visits from the clergy.
DOT BERMAN
- than-o The people she drives through RideCon- When RICHARD FERRICANE, 74, Asthefirsttohearaboutalessnect sit in the back seat of her car and retired in 2017 from a long career in in- timal patient experience, Ferricane acts wear a mask. But that doesn't hamper formation technology automotive engi- as the conduit to a solution. For instance, the conversation, Berman jokes. “This neering, the Pleasantville resident found if a patient complains of sleeping poorly, Ferricane’s report will be relayed to hosis a perfect volunteer opportunity for me himself with plenty of surplus time. pitalsta-forasolution:whetherit’s because I love meeting new people,” she says. “My husband says I would talk to a An amateur saxophone player, he en- medication or simply readjusting the bed. stone if it would talk back! I like that I can joyed jamming with his long-time jazz set my schedule and meet new people.” musician cronies. For a while, he tried his In all of his encounters, Ferricane brings hand at math tutoring. Still, all that free his whole, best self to the task. When asked what he feels is the most meanWhy does she volunteer? “It makes me time felt like a void that needed filling. feel good to help other people,” Berman “I knew I couldn’t just sit around and do ingful thing about volunteering, he resays. “And RideConnect is good for me nothing,” he says. Perusing an e-news- sponds, “It’s knowing that in a small because I can do as little or as much as I letter from Volunteer New York!, he spied way, I’m making someone else’s life a want in any given week.” an opportunity with Burke Rehabilitation little more bearable while they’re going through a hard time.” [By Rosemary Black] Hospital in White Plains. winter 2021-2022
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into their homes for a few days, acclimating them to the activities of an average household—the smells and noises, the new practices of walking on a leash and doing their business outdoors. “We’d all take turns walking and feeding the puppy and then we’d return them,” Sche-el says. “It was perfect for our family.” Once the children were grown and out of the house, Sche-el ramped up her-par ticipation, now acting as a puppy raiser: housing and training young service dog candidates for about a year, teaching them “house manners” and social skills before returning them to Guiding Eyes for placement. “It’s a lot more work and responsibility,” she says, remarking on the three-miles-per-day exercise requirement as one factor. Still, she and her husband have found the task enjoyable and rewarding, fostering six dogs in the past eight years.
To learn more about volunteer opportunities with some of the organizations named in these pages, reach out to: BURKE REHABILITATION HOSPITAL: Robin Goldberg; 914-597-2132 rgoldberg@burke.org DOROT: 914-485-8354 Infowestchester@dorotusa.org GUIDING EYES for THE BLIND: 914-245-4024 RIDECONNECT: Marietta Manoni; 914-864-2036 mmanoni@fsw.org RSVP of WESTCHESTER: Wendy Armstrong; 914-227-9318 wendy@volunteernewyork.org SCORE WESTCHESTER: 914-267-6570 YONKERS PARTNERS IN EDUCATION 914-377-4882
NAOMI KINSLER
Dog-lover LINDA SCHEFFEL raises, trains and fosters dogs who will one day serve as guide animals for people who are blind or visually impaired.
This past summer, Sche-el had three Guiding Eyes’ dogs in her home: a puppy she is raising, a breeding female she periodically transports to and from Guiding Eyes for mating and whelping, and a retired brood dog she took in after the dog was released for public adoption. “These animals are the best of the best. They’re bred for their excellent personality, intelligence and adaptability, and they come to you already well-trained,” she says. “You get to help Guiding Eyes do their wonderful work, plus you get to love and care for a dog during its best years.”
Since 203, Sche-el has been a volun teer with Guiding Eyes for the Blind, a nonprofitorganizationthatbreeds, raises, While some might find it di-cult to let go trains and provides guide dogs for people of a beloved animal companion you might with vision loss. Sche-el and her - never fam see again, Sche-el is philosophi ily have fostered a series of dogs, from cal. “When you’ve done it enough, you puppies to young adults to breeding fe- get used to it,” she says. “For my family, males—preparing them for lives of ser- this was an ideal situation. We always vice. And Sche-el is utterly smitten with knew we were doing it for someone else.” the whole process. She pauses. “But it’s true that you fall in love a little with every one of these dogs.” A tax lawyer and consultant who lives in Katonah,Sche-elhasalwaysloveddogs. NAOMI KINSLER is a doer. But it wasn’t until her son Andrew needed a volunteer activity for school credit that The Hartsdale resident and self-described the family checked out Guiding Eyes’ workaholic has held down full-time jobs Home and Early Socialization program. for 40 years, leveraging her skills as a mathematician, project manager, and Volunteers take newly weaned puppies computer science geek. When corporate westchesterseniorvoice.com
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LINDA SCHEFFEL
mergers did away with her various roles, instead of retiring, she simply shifted her prodigious energy and people skills to volunteering.
two would talk about music, movies and woman with some cognitive decline. “Her politics, engaging in lively conversations son told me she sometimes forgets how that Kinsler describes as “the best com- to use the phone, so it can be hard to get bination of topics.” Her next gig, visit- hold of her,” she says. “But when we do ing a 94-year-old woman who lives with get the chance to talk, she’s always so A few years ago, Kinsler learned about her daughter, has morphed into a real grateful and appreciative. We’re hoping Dorot, a non-profit that provides - friendship cre during the five years oftotheir meet in person one day soon.” ative programs and in-home visits for acquaintance. “We used to get together older adults in Westchester County and [prior to Covid] in her apartment while her For Kinsler, the satisfaction of volunteerManhattan. The gregarious Kinsler gravi- daughter was at work. We’d exchange ing comes from doing something that tated to the organization’s Friendly Visi- photos of our families, go for walks, and helps the volunteer thrive as much as it tor program, during which volunteers and just talk and talk,” Kinsler says. helps others. “It goes both ways,” she astheir companions listen to music, share serts. Do her clients ever thank her for hobbies, or go for walks in the neighbor- Pandemic restrictions have caused some her service? “Some do, but friends don’t hood, among other activities. There’s no of these comfortable rhythms to shift. usually tell each other that kind of thing. script—they do whatever both parties en- Currently, Dorot, a word meaning “gener- It’s understood that you’re both ben joy doing. Says Kinsler, “It’s a wonderful ations,” is restricting the Friendly Visitor ing from the relationship.” way to energize people who might other- program to phone calls. Two calls a week wise be sitting all day with very little inter- didn’t seem burdensome, so Kinsler took She pauses, then adds thoughtfully, “And action with others.” on another client as well. While she ad- you know what, if this program were to mits it’s more challenging to develop a end tomorrow, it wouldn’t end the friendKinsler’s first assignment as a relationship Dorot with someone she’s never ships I’ve made. You wouldn’t be able to Friendly Visitor was with a gentleman in met face to face, Kinsler is finding ways stop me from calling.” his 90s. During their times together, the of learning more about her new charge, a [By Donna Moriarty] winter 2021-2022
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How Medicare is Expected to
Save Social Security BY JAMES S. FELDESMAN, JD
Talk with almost any person you meet about Social Security and, more often than not, they’ll comment that the program will probably go broke, and the money won’t be there for them.
andfutureSocialSecuritybenefitsyou andare any distributions from tax-deferred inentitled to, with one exception: if you are vestments like traditional 401(k)s and tra65 or older and have creditable health in- ditional IRAs. surance through an employer or spouse’s employer, you can defer your enrollment 5. The bulk of your Medicare premiums into Medicare. as well as any IRMAA surcharges are automatically deducted from any Social SeHow did we get here? Simply put, Social 3. If your income exceeds certain levcuritybenefityoumayreceive. Security has run through its Trust Fund reels, there may be an added surcharge, serves because, for years, it paid out more HOW CONGRESS IS SAVING than it received. This issue has existed Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount (IRMAA), to your Medicare Part THE SOCIAL SECURITY since the onset of the program as those B and Part D premiums. PROGRAM THROUGH whoinitiallyreceivedbenefitswerepaidfar MEDICARE PREMIUMS more than what they paid in. Since then, Keep in mind that both Part B and D are If Medicare premiums increase faster Social Security has been playing catch up optional, but they do have late enrollment than Social Security benefits, the res to generate the necessary money to conpenalties if you delay in signing up for them will be lower and lower payouts to Social tinue the program. and you do not have existing “creditable Security beneficiaries each year. Using onS The good news, though, is even with coverage.” To determine the IRMAA sur- thisstrategy,thefinancialburden charge, Medicare can look back two years. cial Security lessens with each Medicare what appears to be an uphill battle when increase – coming at the cost of your Soit comes to Social Security, thanks to 4. The income that determines IRMAA is cialSecuritybenefit. program changes made by Congress, it defined as your adjusted gross income plus shouldbefine. any tax-exempt interest you may have. For According to the 2020 Annual Report of tax year 20, this income is reflected on the Medicare Board of Trustees (MBT), HOW COULD lines 2a and 11 of the IRS form 1040. If the premiums for Medicare are projectSOCIAL SECURITY BE FINE? ed to grow at over 6.2% annually for the The reason Social Security is not going your income fluctuates year to year, you may move between IRMAA brackets, and next eight years. broke is that Congress has taken meayou may need to advise Medicare to that if sures over the last two decades to ensure the program will have plenty of reserves to they continue to deduct more than you are Unfortunately, according to the Annual required to pay. Report of the Social Security Board of last for quite some time. Trustees, during this exact same time Some examples of income that count toperiod, the cost-of-living adjustment This is where the bad news comes in and wards IRMAA are: Social Security benefits (COLA) is projected to be no greater than why you need to start planning for every (your taxable portion), wages, pension and 2.4% annually. The COLA is the annual aspect of retirement now - because it rental income, capital gains, dividends, increase to Social Security to keep up comes at your expense. The measures from Congress that will save Social Security at your expense are:
1. To receive any Social Security benefit, you must also enroll into Medicare Part A when you become eligible [for Medicare] at age 65.
2. Failure to enroll into Part A, by law, results in the immediate forfeiture of any past, current westchesterseniorvoice.com
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with inflation.And over the last 10 years, into her Social Security benefit - at under an in 35%. And instead of receiving over it has only averaged 1.65% annually. creasing rate (without accounting for any $52,0 in Social Security benefits at IRMAA surcharges). age 90, her Medicare premiums and IRBased on these projections, ultimately, MAA will eat up 40% of her Social Secuevery time your Social Security benefit HOW DOES IRMAA rity benefits, leaving her only with abo is projected to increase, your Medicare IMPACT YOU? That $31,0. isoverthat $20, Social premiums will more than consume that Again, IRMAA is a surcharge on top of Security does not have to pay out. increase. The result: the obligation So- your Part B and Part D premiums, based cialSecurityhasinpayingbenefits - on isyour re adjusted gross income plus any To highlight just how much Social Security duced by increased Medicare premiums. tax-exempt interest. will be saving when it comes to its obligation in paying benefits, below is a graph To illustrate further: Because of this law, your taxable portion of for someone who is in the highest IRMAA Person A is 60 years old today, planning SocialSecuritybenefitplusanymoneybracket you and earns the largest amount of Social to retire at 67 in 2028, and resides in the withdraw from your traditional 401(k) or tra- Securitybenefitsinayear.Youcanseehow state of New York. ditional IRA is used against you when your thispersonwillhavedecliningbenefits Medicare premiums are being assessed. green line) as she ages in her 80s. If she has earned an average annual salary of $75,0 while working, her Social Security benefit at 67, according to Social Security’s Quick Calculator, is projected to be $30,74 for the year. In 2028, according to the MBT Annual Report, her Medicare Part B and Part D premiums are projected to cost $4,15 for the year. As a result, her Medicare premiums will consume roughly 13.5% of her Social Securitybenefit.
Example: You are retired, receiving Social SO, IS SOCIAL SECURITY Security benefits and enrolled-into Medi REALLY GOING BROKE? care. You decide to make a withdrawal Again, due to the federal laws passed by from your 401(k), which will be taxed. Congress, the likelihood of Social Security That withdrawal plus your Social Security going broke is minimal at best. The only But remember Medicare is inflating twice benefit and any other income you may problem: you may not get what you exas fast as your Social Security benefit! have such as wages will be added up. pect, no matter how much you paid into If the amount is higher than $8,0 for the system. By age 75, her Social Security benefit, an individual or $176,0 for a couple in n n n with that 2.4% COLA, is projected to be 2021, you will be subject to at least a 40% James S. Feldesman is a Financial $37,16 while her Medicare premiums increase in your Medicare premiums. Advisor with WealthBridge Finanwill total $6,792. Her Medicare premiums cial Group located at 675 Third Ave will consume about 18.3% of her Social And remember, by law, IRMAA surcharges – 9th Floor, New York, NY 10017. Securitybenefit. are automatically deducted from your SoJames is a lifelong resident of Westchester County and offers a cialSecuritybenefittoo. complimentary consultation and estimate on what At age 85, her Social Security benefit is projected to be 15 $47, annually if the If we take the prior example of Person A you can expect from social security and how it will affect your retirement. He can be reached at 646COLA remains at 2.4%, and her Medi- whoisreceivingin $32,704 SocialSecu 461-9867or feldesman_james@nlgroupmail.com. care premiums will exceed $12,50 for rity benefits at age 67, and assume she ---------------------------------the year. At this point, Medicare will con- reaches the first IRMAA bracket,- Medi sume more than 26% of her expected care will consume 13.5% of her Social This content is derived from among such sources as: Medicare. Gov; Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services; Social SecuSocialSecuritybenefit. Securitybenefit. rity Administration; Internal Revenue Services, IRMAA Solutions On the lower left (facing page) is a graph from IRMAA Solutions’ Medicare Planning Calculator, illustrating how Medicare bites
By age 75, the percent Medicare consumes of her Social Security grows to 23.7% and at age 85 the percent is just
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Medicare Calculator. Neither the information presented, nor any opinion expressed constitutes advice. It has been prepared for educational purposes only and does not replace information provided to you by The Social Security Administration or your tax advisor. This information is not intended as tax or legal advice.
westchesterseniorvoice.com
Favorite Holiday Recipes
Ready to wow your guests - and your own taste buds - with a new holiday recipe or a modern take
on an old favorite? We may have just the answer! Whether it's roasted Cornish hens or potato latkes, we're ready to try our hand at the classics as well as a few less traditional recipes. How about you?
Mini (Vegan) Stuffed Pumpkins
From Chef Andrew Cain and Registered Dietitian Susan Juechter Phelps Hospital/ Northwell Health Sleepy Hollow, NY; phelps.northwell.edu; 914-366-1150 DIRECTIONS
INGREDIENTS - 1¼ cups uncooked wild rice - 2½ cups water - 8 mini pumpkins - 2 Tbsp olive oil - 1 lb. diced butternut squash - 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil -1cupfinelychopped yellow onion -1cupfinelydicedapples - 3/4 cup dried cranberries - 2 Tbsp fresh chopped sage - 1 tspn ground black pepper
Preheat the oven to 350°F. To cook the wild rice: Combine the wild rice and the water and bring to a simmer. Cover and continue to simmer over a low heat for 35 to 45 minutes or until the water is gone and the rice is tenderandflu-y.Ifyourriceisstillhardatthis point, add another ½ cup of water and continue to cook the rice covered over a low heat for another 15 to 20 minutes. To cook the butternut squash: Arrange the diced butternut squash in a roasting pan and drizzle with a touch of extra virgin olive oil. Roast until it is cooked through, slightly caramelized and tender. Remove the pan from the oven and set aside. Whilethericeandsquasharecooking,carefullyslicethetopso-yourminipumpkinsandscoopout seeds,(reservetheseedsforroastingandthentoppingthedishifdesired).Rubtheexposedflesh pumpkins with a little olive oil, salt and pepper. Roast the pumpkins and their tops in a roasting pan, covered with tin foil, for 15 to 20 minutes, or just until the pumpkins are tender. Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Add the chopped onion. Sweat the onion in the olive oil until tender and translucent in color. Add the diced apple, and continue to cook for about two to three minutes, stirring often. Stir in the cooked rice, cooked squash, dried cranberries, and chopped sage. Continue to cook until the mixture is hot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Arrangethepumpkinsinalargebakingcasseroleandstu-eachpumpkinwiththewildricemixtur Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 10 to 20 minutes or until the pumpkins are soft and the wild rice stu-nghasheatedthrough. Note:Thesestu-edpumpkinscanbepreparedafewdaysinadvanceandstoredinthefridgeuntilre bake. Optional: Grated Fontina, Manchego or Parmesan cheese is a nice addition to the dish and can be sprinkledontopofthestu-edpumpkinsjustbeforebaking. westchesterseniorvoice.com
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tthe hofthe
Braised Brisket & Vegetables From Richard Lipari Culinary Institute of America-Trained and Executive Chef at The Osborn in Rye, NY theosborn.org; 914-925-8000
This recipe is one of my personal favorites I hope you enjoy it as much as my family and I do.
INGREDIENTS - 3 to 4 lb. beef brisket, 1st cut (1st cut has no deckle and is very lean). A good rule of thumb is about 1/2 to 3/4 lb. per person uncooked (more if you want leftovers) - beef and chicken broth or stock to cover meat - 2 onions, sliced - 6 cloves garlic - 4 carrots - salt and pepper - corn starch Optional: 4 celery stalks, cut in 1" pieces Garnish: sliced scallions
re.
DIRECTIONS
eadyto
Season brisket with salt and pepper. Sear brisket in olive oil on stove top on both sides until brown. Cover brisket with equal parts chicken and beef broth. Cover and simmer brisket for about two hours. Add vegetables after one hour of brisket cooking. A good way to tell if done: fork will come out of brisket with no resistance when poked. When brisket and vegetables are tender, remove from liquid. Return stock to a boil and thicken with a corn starch slurry (equal amounts of corn starch and water) to thicken gravy. Slice brisket against the grain and arrange on a platter. Place vegetables and hot gravy over brisket. Garnish with scallions and enjoy! winter 2021-2022
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Roasted Cornish Hen From Executive Chef Michael Sherman The Greens at Greenwich in Greenwich, CT thegreensatgreenwich.com; 203-531-5500 INGREDIENTS - 1 Cornish hen - 2 whole cloves garlic - 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard - 1 bunch thyme - 1 bunch parsley - 1 tspn dry oregano - 3 Tbsp of olive oil - salt and pepper
An intimate dinner for two, bringing back memories of long-ago holidays, with a savory roasted Cornish hen.” - Maria Scaros, Executive Director
DIRECTIONS Brush Cornish hen with the Dijon mustard. Chopupthethymeandparsleyandstu-thehen with three-quarters of the herbs and both garlic cloves. Combine salt, pepper and oregano and season the skin of the hen generously. Drizzle olive oil over hen. Roast in oven at 375°F for about 45 minutes. Let rest and serve with your choice of favorite holiday side dishes. Serves one or two (Cut hen in half for two portions.)
Broccoli Soup
From Cippi (Patricia Cipora) Harte DOROT Westchester, Director 925 Westchester Avenue, STE 200 White Plains, NY 10604 dorotusa.org; 914-485-8356 INGREDIENTS - about 3 large broccoli crowns or a similar amount - 1 to 2 yellow onions, coarsely cut - 1 to 2 potatoes, peeled and cut up - 1 to 2 tspn sea salt (optional) - 1/2 tspn ground pepper (optional)
DIRECTIONS Wash and cut the broccoli into medium sized pieces and place in soup pot. Add the onions, potatoes, salt and pepper. Add water to the pot to about 1” below the vegetables (For a thinner soup, add more water.) Once it comes to a boil, turn down the heat and continue to cook over a low-medium heat for about 30 to 45 minutes until tender. Use a hand blender or a regular blender to puree half or all of the soup (for more or less veggie chunks). This soup keeps well in the refrigerator or can be put in smaller containers and frozen.
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Pasta Al Forno
From LaurenC.Enea,ESQ.'sgrandmotherTheresaEnea Enea, Scanlan & Sirignano, LLP WhitePlainsandSomers;esslawfirm.com;914-850 When in Sicily, this dish may be a weekly occurrence, but for my family, it is served only at the holidays - more specifically, Christmas dinner. It is something I look forward to every year. My grandma always told me the circular pasta was representative of Christmas wreaths and the peas helped provide the red and green, representative of Christmas. Enjoy!
INGREDIENTS - 1½ lb. Anelletti pasta (ring shaped) cooked al’dente, cooled and set aside. - 1 lb. sweet Italian sausage with fennel - 1 lb. meatloaf mix: ground beef/lamb/veal -2/3cupgratedorfinelychoppedonion -2/3cupgratedorfinelychoppedcarrots -2/3cupgratedorfinelychoppedcelery - 1 Tbsp chopped garlic - 2 12 oz. cans San Marzano tomato puree - 2 6 oz. cans tomato paste - 3 Tbsp olive oil (or more as needed) - 1 Tbsp dry basil - 1 Tbsp dry parsley - 1/2 tspn salt (or to taste) - 1/2 tspn pepper (or to taste) - 1 cup grated Parmesean or Pecorino Romano cheese - 2½ cups grated Mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup sweet sangria wine - 1½ cups frozen peas Garnish: fresh basil
DIRECTIONS
In a large sauce pot, heat olive oil on medium heat. Add onions and sauté until translucent and lightly caramelized. Add garlic to onions and continue to sauté. After garlic and onions are translucent and lightly caramelized, add carrots. Lower heat and cover pot to allow steam to soften carrots and cook for about two to four minutes. Then add celery and continue to “steam” cook until all vegetables are softened. Add ground beef mixture and sausage and cook until no longer pink. Oncemeatiscooked(butnotbrowned),addthesangriaandcontinuetocookuntilit'sevaporated.Addthetomatopaste meat and vegetables. Now add the tomato puree. Fill one empty tomato puree can two-thirds with water and add to sauce mixture. Add in basil, parsley, salt and pepper to taste. Allow sauce to cook for two to three hours. Once sauce is ready, add in frozen peas and turn o-heat.Continuetostirregularlyandletsaucecool. Once sauce is cooled and pasta is cooked, heat oven to 375°F. Mix pasta with enough sauce to lightly coat it. Pour layer of sauce into a 9 x 13 inch baking dish (or larger pan for fewer layers). Place layer of pasta into baking dish. Pour layer of sauce into baking dish. Place layer of Mozzarella into baking dish with sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Romano. Continue layering until baking dish is full. Finish top layer with a layer of sauce and Mozzarella cheese. Cover with aluminum foil and cook for 45 minutes. Remove foil and let top cook until cheese is lightly browned. Garnish with fresh basil and serve. NOTE: For a more cheesy taste, add a combination of Ricotta cheese, egg and parsley between layers with the Mozzarella cheese.
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Chicken Dumpling Soup From The Chelsea at Greenburgh; 715 Dobbs Ferry Rd. in Greenburgh, NY chelseaseniorliving.com; 914-275-0010
INGREDIENTS - SOUP - 2 Tbsp vegetable oil - 2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed - 1 cup diced yellow onion - 1 cup sliced carrot - 3 cloves garlic, minced -1/ytspnsalt - 5 Tbsp unsalted butter
Tbsp -6 all-purposeflour - 6 cups chicken broth - 1/2 cup heavy cream - 1/2 tspn dried thyme - 2 bay leaves - 1/2 cup frozen peas -1/2cupfinelychoppedcelery - 4 Tbsp fresh parsley, minced
INGREDIENTS - DUMPLINGS -2cupsall-purposeflour - 1 Tbsp baking powder - 1/2 tspn salt - 1/2 tspn pepper -1/zcupsheavycream
DIRECTIONS
For the soup: In a 6-quart Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides. Remove from the pot and set aside. Cook carrot and onion until just tender, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and stir for another minute, until fragrant. Reduce the heat to medium-lowandaddthebutterandflour(tomaketheroux),stirringconstantlyforthreeminutestopreventlumpsfromfo Add the cooked chicken and any accumulated juices back to the pot and stir to coat it in the roux. Add the chicken broth, cream, thyme, and bay leaves and bring to a simmer. Once at a simmer, add the frozen peas, cover, and cook for 15 minutes. For the dumplings:Inalargebowl,combinetheflour,bakingpowder,salt,pepper,andcream.Stiruntilmixturecomestogetherint single mass of dough. Using a large spoon or ice cream scoop, form the dough into small round balls about one inch in diameter (the dough should yield 14 to 16 dumplings). Place the dough balls in the simmering soup (making sure they don’t touch), add the parsley, and cover. Let the soup simmer for 15 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through. Ladle into bowls. Serves six. westchesterseniorvoice.com
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Classic Potato Latkes From Cippi (Patricia Cipora) Harte DOROT Westchester, Director 925 Westchester Avenue, STE 200 White Plains, NY 10604 dorotusa.org; 914-485-8356
INGREDIENTS -
6 Idaho potatoes, medium size 2 medium onions 3 large eggs 4 Tbsp vegetable oil 1/2 cup matzah meal or bread crumbs 1 tspn salt 1/4 tspn pepper
DIRECTIONS Peel and grate the potatoes. Chop the onions and mix together with potatoes, eggs, matzah meal, salt and pepper. If it seems "wet" add some additional matzah meal but not too much. Heatoilinalargefryingpanonmediumflame.Whenhot, drop spoonfuls of the batter in the oil, fry for a few minutes, until theedgesarebrown.Turntofinishfrying.Placeonapapertowelto absorb the oil and enjoy with either applesauce, sour cream or Greek yogurt.
FOR ACCOMPANYING APPLESAUCE: Peel, core and chop (or grate) 4 to 6 apples. Place in a pot with about 1/4 cup of water and cook until soft. Cool and enjoy! If you like it sweeter, add some sugar and/or cinnamon. I like it with just the apples and a bit of water.
Pesto Party Crostini From The Knolls / A Bethel Community 55 Grasslands Rd. in Valhalla, NY theknolls.org; 914-721-0855 INGREDIENTS - 1/2 French baguette - 3 oz. Brie cheese cut into into 1½ inch pieces - 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (soak in warm water to soften) - 5 Tbsp pesto (can use store bought) - salt and pepper to taste - olive oil
DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 350°F. Cut baguette into 1/4 inch slices diagonally. Drizzle olive oil, salt and pepper on to each slice and slightly toast the bread. Layer the ingredients starting with pesto on to the toasted baguette. Next, top with the sun-dried tomatoes and then with the Brie. Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake for 5 to 8 minutes, until the Brie starts to melt. Remove from oven and serve.
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Sweet & Simple Acorn Squash From Susan E. Ross Publisher, Westchester Senior Voice INGREDIENTS - acorn squash (as many as you need) - 1/2 tspn butter for each half squash - sea salt - 1 Tbsp brown sugar for each half - 1 tspn pure maple syrup for each half Amount of each ingredient is subject to number of squashes and personal preferences. Don’t be afraid to just go with your gut.
DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 400°F. Wash outside of squash. Cut in half, from stem to top and scrape out the seeds and stringy bits. Score the inside with a small paring knife in a cross hatch pattern with 1/2 inch deep cuts. Rub 1/2 tspn of butter into each half. Sprinkle with sea salt and crumble 1 Tbsp of brown sugar into each squash, then drizzle maple syrup into each. Add 1/4 inch of water to a roasting pan. Place squash on top of the water. Bake 60-75 minutes, until browned andfleshisverysoft.Keepwarmuntilserving.
Ricotta Cheesecake From Roseanne Braiotta, Director Ancillary Programs & Volunteer Services, White Plains Hospital wphospital.org
INGREDIENTS - 32 oz. plus 15 oz. Ricotta cheese, room temperature - 8 oz. Mascarpone cheese, room temperature - 6 eggs, room temperature - 1½ cups sugar - 4½ Tbsp corn starch - 2 tpsn vanilla extract - zest of 1 lemon and zest of 1 orange - 5 drops of lemon juice - 2½ cups graham cracker crumbs, prepared with 10 Tbsp of melted butter
DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 355°F. Prepare a 10" cheesecake spring form baking pan: Spread graham cracker crumb and butter mixture on the bottom and sides of pan. Cover outside of pan with foil and put aside. Prepare batter: Beat Ricotta and sugar on medium speed until creamy, add Mascarpone and continue to beat until well blended and smooth. Blend in corn starch and vanilla; add eggs one at a time - do not over beat, just blend in. Turno-beaterandaddlemondropsandthelemonandorangezest;foldinwithaspatula.Pourintopan. Bakeforonehouroruntillightbrownontop.Turnoveno-andleavecheesecakein,withtheovendoorslightlyopened,for15mi Remove and cool to room temperature. Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight. westchesterseniorvoice.com
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winter 2021-2022
[Large] Deep Dish Peach Pie From Evangeline Handy of Wartburg in Mt. Vernon, NY wartburg.org; 914-699-0800
INGREDIENTS - CRUST
INGREDIENTS - FILLING
-4cupsallpurposeflour - 16 oz. cream cheese - 8 oz. butter, unsalted - cut in chunks - 2 tspn salt
- 2 #10 cans of sliced peaches, drained (about 22-24 cups) (Note: if in season, use 35-40 fresh peaches, skinned and sliced***) -21/ycupsbrownsugar - 2 cups white sugar - 1 heaping Tbsp nutmeg - 3 heaping Tbsp cinnamon
DIRECTIONS
- 1 Tbsp salt - 1 Tbsp pepper - 2 Tbsp vanilla extract (not imitation) - 1 cup Triple Sec or Grand Marnier (Don'tworry,thealcoholevaporates.) - 4 Tbsp corn starch - Other: lasagna pan
Create two batches of dough:oneforthebottomcrustandoneforthetop.Forthefirstbatch,placehalfofeachcrustingredienti of a food processor, using a regular blade. Pulse until crumbly. Then let run (less than two minutes) until a large ball forms. Repeat to make second batch of dough for top crust. Wrap each in plastic, ziplock bag or wax paper and place in refrigerator for at least 1/2 hour. (If longer than 1/2 hour, let dough sit out for 10 minutes before rolling out.) Rolloutonflouredsurfacetotheshapeofthelasagnapanaddingextrainchestogoupthesides.(ifyouuseaglasscasserolepa need to adjust the cooking time by looking at the browness of the bottom crust thru the glass.
For the filling:Inalargepot,placeallthefillingingredientsexceptforthecornstarch.Gentlymixonmediumheat,stirringper and bring to a boil. Add an emulsion of the corn starch and a little ice cold water (add a little at a time, stirring in between until corn starch isliquified,togiveyouabout1/4cupliquid.Add ). tohotpeachesalittleatatimetothicken.Placepeachesincrustfillingalmo Donotoverfill.(Youcanalwaysusetheextrasforicecream,pancakesorevenpoundcake.)
Roll out the second batch of dough and cut in strips (1/2" to 3/4" wide) with either a sharp knife or a pizza cutter. Place strips of dough in an "X" pattern, starting corner to far corner on top. Place one strip of dough on each side of original X and alternate totheedgeofthepieinbothdirections,cuttingo-excesslengthsasyougo.Pinchedge(orforkpress)togetheraroundentire holds together. Finish by pinch and poke technique or by fork or other favorite edge technique. Bake at 375°F for about 90 minutes (check at 70 minutes). Great with a scoop of ice cream! Suggestion: Move half of the cooked peaches from pot to crust with a ladle with holes and the remainder with regular ladle to get the most peaches instead of syrup, then add more syrup from pot as needed to bring up to but not over the edge before adding top crust. The peaches willgiveo-alittlemorejuiceastheybake. *** NOTE: If you use frozen peaches, they will produce extra liquid, so you may have to add a little more corn starch emulsion.
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westchesterseniorvoice.com
Chocolate Toffee Matzos Crunch From Susan E. Ross Publisher, Westchester Senior Voice
Try freezing small pieces of this super sweet treat so as not to overload on the sugar in one sitting! That way, you'll also have it on hand to serve with a cup of coffee or tea when family and friends drop by.
INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
- 3 to 4 matzos - 2 sticks unsalted butter - 1 cup light brown sugar - 12 oz. bag of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips - 3/4 cups chopped walnuts (or your preferred nut) - sea salt
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a standard-sized rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Cover the paper with matzos, breakingandfittingtogetherbestaspossibletofillthesheet. In a medium saucepan, over medium heat, combine the butter and sugar. Stir continuously until mixture comestoaboilandcookanotherthreeminutesorsountilit’sfoamyandthickened.Pourthis the matzos and spread evenly. Bakeforabout10minutesoruntilto-eeisbubbling.Removepanfromovenandsprinklechocolate chips over the top. Wait a few minutes for the chips to soften and use a knife or small spatula to spread themeltedchocolateovertheto-eematzos.Sprinklewiththewalnutsandseasalttoyourt Refrigerate until chocolate hardens (about an hour). Break or cut into pieces and store in container in the fridge until ready to serve. Keep refrigerated. (Tip: Makes a great gift; place in a mason jar with bow.)
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winter 2021-2022
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MEDICAID ADVISOR
Filing for Medicaid BY COLIN SANDLER
In theory, people should be able to apply for Medicaid without hiring a professional. However, doing so requires a good understanding of all the nuances of Medicaid eligibility. Trying to go it alone can be financially devastating.
else. Usually, people are advised to cash out the policy. However, cashing out means Cheryl would lose the value of the life insurance that would have gone tax-free to her beneficiaries. An alternative to would be to take a loan against the policy, prepay any funeral arrangements, and any money remaining would go towards the $15,0 Cheryl is allowed to keep or would go to the nursing home towards her cost of care. Once the cash value is lowered below the MedicWhen you are admitted aid threshold, Cheryl can keep the to a nursing home for policy and her beneficiaries would a long-term placement, still benefit from the payout upo you should immediately her passing. Although the payout explore your options for CASE STUDY 2: may be reduced by the loan, they Medicaid, even if you Barbara enters a nursing home and still haven'tlostthewholevalueofthepoli do not think you can qualify. People often has a significant amount of money in her relyonthenursinghome’sfinance-depart name. Her family believes they have to ment to help them through the application CASE STUDY 4: continue to pay the home until all of Barprocess. They can do that but it is not the John is admitted to a nursing home. He bara’s funds are spent down. They may home’s role to help you with any asset has property as well as assets in the not realize that she can pre-pay an irreprotection. And if they know about any bank. Upon discussion with his family, we vocable burial fund for herself and for her transfers of assets, they may simply say learned one of the adult children is collectchildren without incurring a penalty peyou do not qualify. But what if this isn't ing Social Security disability. This adult riod. Also, they may not know about a gift necessarily the case? child is not accessing any government note strategy which allows you to protect entitlements (i.e.; Medicaid, food stamps, between 40 to upwards of 50 percent of CASE STUDY 1: etc.). A transfer of assets to an adult disremaining funds. This strategy has to In the five years prior to nursingthe home abled child does not have any penalty placement, Martin had given money to be implemented immediately upon ad- period and is an acceptable transfer. Askhis grandchildren to pay for college. But mission. It cannot be done once the funds ing one simple question could change the he gave the money to the parents of his have been spent. disposition of all your assets from going to grandchildren, and did not pay the college the nursing home to going to your child. directly. When Medicaid reviews his - CASE finan STUDY 3: cial statements, they are going to see gifts Cheryl didn’t have any assets to speak As illustrated in the cases above, a Medgiven to his children. Ultimately, Medicaid of when she was admitted to the nursing icaid specialist may be able to provide does not care about the purpose of the home but she does have a life insurance options for protecting assets should a gifts, and they will penalize for transfers of policy with a $150, death benefit and nursing home placement occur. If any assets. A penalty for asset transfers means a cash value of $30,. She cannot own assets can be protected, you should Medicaid will deny coverage for a period of a life insurance policy with that much cash know about it as soon as possible in orvalue and qualify for Medicaid as the cash time consistent with the funds gifted. value counts as an asset. Once admitted der to implement allowable strategies. n n n This issue often happens when people tothenursinghome,it'stoolatetotransfer Colin Sandler, LCSW, CCM, is the ownership of the policy to somebody give gifts according to IRS guidelines, which allow what people think is a permissible tax free gift per year (i.e., $15,0). However, Medicaid does not follow the IRS guidelines and will in fact count this as a transfer of assets.
Colino-ersFREEweeklyseminars on Community Medicaid and Nursing Home Medicaid via Zoom. Please check MedicaidSolutions.com for information and registration.
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the owner of Medicaid Solutions and has been providing advice on aging to seniors and their families for over 20 years. Call 914-9242566 or email Colin@Medicaidsolutions.com; 2127 Crompond Rd, Cortlandt Manor, NY.
winter 2021-2022
INSURANCE
LTC Insurance In a Nutshell BY LYNN LAVENDER
If you have aging parents or have otherwise witnessed first-hand the high cost of long-term care, you may understandably be asking yourself how you will handle the cost of care for yourself – since it is not covered by Medicare.
crease if approved by the state department prognosis is permanent) or need long-term of insurance. You will also want to exercise care. These policies do not have inflatio the inflation rider; otherwise, theriders. policy(There is are two types of long-term akin to owning a depreciating asset. care riders on the life insurance with living benefits: the "Chronic Illness Rider" and HYBRID OR ASSET-BASED plans the other is a true "Long Term Care" rider. were created for people who feel they Besuretoknowthedi-erence.) might be throwing away money if they The following is a brief high-level look at dif- never need care. If long-term care is never No matter how much money you have, ferent types of long-term care insurance. needed, a life insurance benefit to named you will not be able to buy insurance if beneficiaries will be paid. These plans you are not healthy. Investigate your opTRADITIONAL LONG-TERM CARE have limited payments (lump sum or multi- tions while you can still qualify and get INSURANCE (LTCI) is pure insurance. year payment schedules) and guaranteed the best rates. That means the insurance company will premiums. Benefits are not taxable but pay if “damages” are incurred. If benefits there is no tax deductibility on premiums. (Note: Options vary from state to state. For exare never needed, there is no residual Hybrid Plans do not have as many options ample, annuities with long-term care benefits a benefit. Traditional LTCI is also the widely available, but not for New York residents.) asmost traditional policies. flexiblewithmanyfeatures:ranges-ofben n n n LIFE INSURANCE WITH LIVING Lynn Lavender, CLTC, is Principal at Guide Inefit dollars, how long benefits last, shared RIDERS are life insurance policies that al- surance and has been handling the insurance benefits with partners and more. These low the insured to draw down on the death needs of individuals and businesses for over 20 plansaretaxqualified,meaningtheyhave benefit fortheirownuseiftheymeet - the federal and state tax advantages. Howevyears.cri She can be reached at: 914-478-7640 or teria of being chronically ill (the individual’s LLavender@GuideINS.com er, rates are not guaranteed and could in-
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• Medicaid eligibility planning • Maximize benefits and services • Medicaid application filing • Pooled Income Trusts filing Call me to see if you qualify for financial assistance to reduce the cost of long term care
Colin Sandler,
lcsw
Senior Care Counselor & Medicaid Specialist
colin@medicaidsolutions.com
914.924.2566
WE'RE HERE TO HELP YOU LIVE YOUR STRONGEST AND BEST LIFE. winter 2021-2022
Advice for Aging
2127 Crompond Road, Suite 105 Cortlandt Manor, NY 10567
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SMART CLICKS
Shop Online Like a Pro Over the past year, online shopping has become the norm for most of us. But could you be doing better when navigating online purchasing? Here are some tips to follow: DOUBLE CHECK RETURN AND EXCHANGE POLICIES Make sure you know the return policy of the retailer you’re shopping with to ensure your return or exchange will be accepted, if necessary. Many stores won’t accept back any open packages or clothing with tags removed, so be sure you know the guidelines before tearing into your purchase when it arrives. Also check whether you can return items to a local store, if there’s one available, or if you’ll have to ship a return - and find out who is responsible for return shipping costs. Be conscious of timing. Most retailers have specific rules about how long you have to return an item. Some use the order date as the starting point while others use the delivery date. USE THE RIGHT CREDIT CARD Joining a store’s loyalty program can be advantageous if you are a frequent shopper at a specific brand or retailer. Also, you may want to consider using a credit card that offers rewards for online shopping, including cash back. For instance, Bank of America® Cash Rewards credit card lets you earn three percent cash back in a category of your choice – and online shopping is one of those categories.
STAY SAFE ONLINE Online shopping offers plenty of benefits but being cautious with your credit card information and banking information can help you avoid certain risks. Consider these tips from Better Money Habits, Bank of America’s free financial education platform, to help you protect your finances while shopping online. 1. USE POWERFUL PASSWORDS: Avoid the temptation to set a password you can remember easily and, instead, use something a little more complex that would be hard for others to guess or hack. Use a distinct password for each online account so you don’t make multiple accounts vulnerable if your personal information does get stolen. Also change your passwords periodically for added security. 2. LOOK FOR THE LOCK: If you're shopping online, be sure the address begins with https. The “s” tells you the site is secure, and don't forget to look for the
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little lock icon in the browser before you enter any payment information. 3. SECURE YOUR NETWORKS: Whether using your home Wi-Fi, a mobile device while on the go or a public computer, you need to take steps to secure your information. Start by password protecting your home's network. When you log in to any financial account while away from home, like at a coffee shop or restaurant, don't do so on an open network. If you're using a shared computer, be sure to clear all your personal information when you log out. 4. SET UP NOTIFICATIONS: One easy way to keep an eye on your credit card information is to sign up for mobile or email alerts with your bank. This way, each time your card is used, you receive a notification. Plus, your bank may be able to notify you of any suspicious activity.
winter 2021-2022
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HOME UPGRADE:
Better Indoor Air Quality When we consider air quality, our first thought may be to think about outdoor pollution. However, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the air inside our homes can be as polluted, or even more so, than the air outside.
Many models can even connect to a smartphone app to combine convenience with a soothing mood booster that supports health and wellness. KEEP UP WITH CLEANING Textiles like carpeting, rugs and window treatments can attract dust and dander, reducing air quality. It’s important to regularly clean and air out decorative fabrics and surfaces, especially thick carpet that is likely to host dust mites and bacteria.
This is partly due to increasingly energy-efficient home construction and the growing use of synthetic materials in furnishings and interior finishes. The air inside your home also contains pollutants from everyday activities like cooking, bathing and cleaning. Pets and dust mites contribute to poor air quality, as well.
help control bacteria, mold and mildew.
On average, Americans spend an estimated 90% of their time indoors, according to the EPA. All that time with minimal access to daylight and fresh air can take a toll on our health. For example, damp and moldy environments can increase the risk of developing asthma by up to 40%, according to the Fraunhofer Institute for Building Physics. With all the extra time we’re at home due to the pandemic, here are some ways to manage indoor air quality. SUPPORT YOUR HVAC SYSTEM Without regular servicing and frequent filter replacements, it’s easy for standard HVAC systems to fall short. This is especially true in older homes or in households where there’s a high volume of allergens like dust or pet dander. Adding standalone or integrated devices can give your HVAC system some extra support. Air purifiers help filter pollutants while ultraviolet lights purify the air and
Another common pitfall is humidity control. Too much moisture can contribute to air quality problems. On the other hand, air that’s too dry can promote dusty, abrasive conditions that are hard on allergies and other respiratory conditions. IMPROVE FRESH AIR VENTILATION Improved ventilation allows you to clear out stale, polluted indoor air and circulate fresh, outdoor air in your home. Polluted air tends to stagnate at the ceiling, so one effective and energy-efficient way to create natural ventilation is with skylights that open. When you open skylights in combination with vertical windows, you create natural airflow that can help release indoor air pollutants and bring in fresh, clean air to keep your home healthy and pleasant. Today’s skylights can also be automated to open and close at regular intervals or extend and retract shades to block light as needed.
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DON’T ADD TO THE PROBLEM Burning a candle may make a room smell fresh and clean, but it’s doing little to help improve your air quality. In fact, you’re just masking unappealing odors while releasing harmful particles into the air. Similarly, smoking indoors traps those chemicals inside your home, which can wreak havoc on air quality. WATCH FOR UNEXPECTED CULPRITS Gas appliances can emit hazardous chemicals and compounds, like nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide, contributing to poor indoor climates when not properly ventilated. Homes with gas stoves contain 50 to 400 percent higher concentrations of nitrogen dioxide than those with electric stoves, and the EPA found prolonged exposure to the gas can lead to asthma and other respiratory issues. With thoughtful upgrades, adjustments and care, you can enjoy a home filled with fresh, healthy air and comfortable surroundings year-round.
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Westchester's Bee-Line Bus System and pay your fare with exact change. 2. Add money to your Reduced Fare MetroCard and use it as a debit card. 3. Please have your Reduced Fare MetroCard out and ready before you board the bus.
USING COINS TO PAY YOUR FARE: Dollar bills and pennies cannot be used in the fare box. If using coins, please have exact change ready when boarding the bus, as bus drivers are unable to make change.
FREE TRANSFERS:
it much easier to step on board. If you cannot use stairs, the Bee-Line bus driver around Westchester, and is a fully accessible bus service with senior reduced fares and free transfers? If you said the Westchester Bee-Line System, you’re correct! With over 3,300 bus stops and close to 60 routes, the Bee-Line bus Yet, many older adults are not familiar with how to ride the Bee-Line and overlook the
So, here are some helpful facts you should know about the Bee-Line System:
on board. You must ask the driver to use wheelchair or in a scooter, the driver will
happy to kneel the bus for you and make
only be used for bus to bus transfers. If you are using a MetroCard, your transfer will register electronically when you dip your card into the fare box.
needs. For your safety, always remember to hold the handrails.
PAYING YOUR FARE: If you are at least 65 years old, you pay a reduced fare of $1.35 per ride. For easier travel, apply for a Reduced Fare MetroCard that is personalized with your name and photograph. To apply for a Reduced Fare MetroCard visit the MetroCard van when it's in Westchester, the third week of every
GETTING INFORMATION:
date of birth. Call the Westchester SMART commute program at 914-995-4444 for
For individuals who enjoy using a computer, you can visit the Bee-Line online at www.westchestergov.com/beelinebus to accesses bus schedules, maps and general
FULLY ACCESSIBLE SERVICE: Why take a bigger step than you need to? sible bus service, making it easier for you to board and exit the bus. Every Bee-Line bus can “kneel,” which means that the entrance can be lowered to shorten the distance you have to step to board the bus. Each bus is also equipped with a
Your bus fare includes one free transfer to other Bee-Line buses and to MTA subways and local buses in the Bronx. If paying with coins, ask the driver for your transfer
and the MetroCard van schedule.
USING YOUR REDUCED FARE METROCARD: There are three ways you can use your Reduced Fare MetroCard: 1. Show it to your bus driver as your ID
If a phone call is more your style, a dedicall away, at 914-813-7777, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. An automated phone system is also available 24 hours per day.
SPONSORED CONTENT
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S
Nine years without a cold?
cientists have discovered a natural way to kill germs fast. Now thousands of people are using it against unwanted viruses and bacteria in the nose and on the skin. Germs, such as viruses and bacteria, can multiply fast. When unwanted germs get in your nose they can spread and cause misery unless you stop them early. In the last 20 years, hundreds of studies by government and university scientists show the natural element copper kills germs just by touch. The EPA officially declared copper to be antimicrobial, which means it kills microbes, including viruses, bacteria, and fungus. The National Institutes of Health says, “The antimicrobial activity of copper is now well established.” Ancient Greeks and Egyptians used copper to purify water and heal wounds. They didn’t know about microbes, but now we do. Scientists say the high conductance of copper disrupts the electrical balance in a microbe cell by touch and destroys it in seconds. Some hospitals tried copper for touch surfaces like faucets and doorknobs. This cut the spread of MRSA, and other illnesses, by over half and saved lives. The strong scientific evidence gave inventor Doug Cornell an idea. He made a smooth copper probe with a tip to fit in the bottom of his nose. The next time he felt a tickle in his nose that felt like a cold about to start, he rubbed the copper gently in his nose for 60 seconds. “The cold never got going,” he exclaimed. “That was September 2012. I use copper in the nose every time and I have not had a single cold since then.” “We don’t make product health claims,” he said, “so I can’t say cause and effect. But we know copper is
antimicrobial.” He asked relatives and friends to try it. They reported the same thing, so he patented CopperZap® and put it on the market. Soon hundreds of people had tried it. The feedback was 99% positive if Copper can stop germs before they spread. they used the copper within 3 hours after the first sign of through his nose at night tried copper unwanted germs, like a tickle in the just before bed. “Best sleep I’ve had nose or a scratchy throat. in years!” he said. Early user Mary Pickrell said, In a lab test, technicians placed “I can’t believe how good my nose 25 million live flu viruses on a feels.” CopperZap. No viruses were found “What a wonderful thing!” alive soon after. exclaimed Physician’s Some people Assistant Julie. Another press copper on a customer asked, “Is it lip right away if supposed to work that a warning tingle fast?” suggests unwanted Pat McAllister, germs gathering 70, received one for there. Christmas and called it The handle is “one of the best presents curved and textured ever. This little jewel to increase contact. really works.” Copper can kill Frequent flier germs picked up on Karen Gauci used fingers and hands Dr. Bill Keevil: Copper quickly kills viruses. to suffer after crowded after you touch flights. Though skeptical, she tried things other people have touched. copper on travel days for 2 months. The EPA says copper still works “Sixteen flights and not a sniffle!” she even when tarnished. exclaimed. Made in America of pure copper. Businesswoman Rosaleen says 90-day full money back guarantee. when people around her show signs Price $79.95. Get $10 off each of unwanted germs, she uses copper CopperZap with code WCSV2. morning and night. “It saved me last See www.CopperZap.com or call holidays,” she said. “The kids had toll-free 1-888-411-6114. crud going round and round, but not Buy once, use forever. me.” Statements herein are not intended Attorney Donna Blight tried and should not be interpreted as copper for her sinus. “I am shocked!” product health claims, and have not she said. “My head cleared, no more been evaluated by the FDA. Not headache, no more congestion.” claimed to diagnose, treat, cure, or A man with trouble breathing prevent any disease. (paid advertisement)
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