Connecticut Prime Time September 2014

connecticut

Prime Time !

E E r F

september 2014

LeAVes & pAGes

Closing the book on local history

Arlene and Dan Palmer

TAKE NO OFFENS E N

ot-so-se name-ca rious lling

Growing interest in serving the needy

Exercises to make you look like you feel (great!)

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But there are opportunities to change these trends. And this month is an opportunity to take action – nationally, as well as in your state, city, workplace and home. Getting kids active, away from electronic devices and making healthy choices about what they eat and drink are all great steps towards a fit life! If you have concerns about your child’s fitness, consult your pediatrician.

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Connecticut PRIME TIME • September 2014

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September 2014 • Connecticut PRIME TIME

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Newington Health Care Center A Nursing and Rehabilitation Center

HealthBridge MANAGEMENT

SAVE THE DATE!

Stretching the final days of summer

Newington Health Care Center will be holding its Second Annual Community Picnic Celebration

Thursday th September 4 !

860-667-2256 240 Church Street Newington, CT 06111

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Connecticut PRIME TIME • September 2014

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We know it’s a busy time of year, so are hoping you will pencil us in your planners now! We will have music and a free raffle and of course delicious food from the grill!

RSVP to this ad now to hold your spot or give us a call at

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

For many, the beginning of school marks an end to the summer. But for many of us, we can still stretch the good times and put off thoughts of chilly days and frosty nights.

This issue, we try to do a little of that stretching in words and pictures.

Take the folks at the Newington Senior Disabled Center. Our Erica Schmitt visited a lush garden filled with fruits and vegetables from cucumbers to watermelon, all set for delivery to local food pantry. Good food grown by good people for good people, while catching a few rays while you work — what could be more fulfilling?

Our cover story traces the journey of the Palmers, wellknown in New Britain after their years running Leaves & Pages, the coffeehouse and bookseller downtown. If there was a question that couldn’t be answered about the city’s history, Arleen is considered the authority. And it’s a prelude to her and Dan’s soon-to-bepublished memoir, “And Now We Go,” just before they close up shop and head to Maine.

Looking for ways to stay in shape? Erica takes a look at the many options the Bristol Senior Center offers.

CORRECTION

How about yoga, or tai chi, or Zumba? Tap dance? Ballet?

It’s inexpensive or free, and literally will add years to your life. If you aren’t quite ready for a class and just want to work on a special area in private?

Exercise columnist Kimberly DiBattista goes through a menu of great ways to eliminate what she calls “arm jiggle.”

Then there’s our name game.

What do you think when someone calls you a “senior.”

Or a “retiree”? It’s probably a different feeling than when you hear “old-timer.” Check out what your peers think, then let us know by email or snail mail: Prime Time, One Court St., New Britain, CT 06051 or eschmitt@centralctcommunications.com.

You’ll also notice our Datebook is getting bigger and more diverse each month.

Help us keep up the momentum by mailing items and activities from your group to primetitme@centralctcommunications.com or Prime Time, One Court St., New Britain, CT 06051. We’d love to see your pictures, too.

I hope you have a great month. Enjoy every minute of it!

Last month’s cover story was about Rita Golden’s years at the VA. Her name was misspelled on the cover, and we apologize for the error.

INSIDE

SEPTEMBER

There’s a name for it Senior? Old-timer?

What do you think?

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Arlene and Dan Palmer close up shop

R AL

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O

A real page-turner

T N E

CARDIAC CARE WHEN SECONDS

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FEATURES

8 Finance 11 Elder law 16 Healthy Living 17 Exercise 18 Games 20 Datebook Connecticut Prime Time is published monthly by Central Connecticut Communications, LLC, One Herald Square, New Britain Connecticut 06051. Free copies are distributed throughout Central Connecticut Michael E. Schroeder Editor and Publisher mschroeder@centralctcommunications.com (860) 225-4601 ext. 246 Erica Schmitt Staff Writer eschmitt@ centralctcommunications.com (860)225-4601 Chris McLaughlin Designer Gary Curran Advertising Director gcurran@centralctcommunications.com (860)225-4601 Joseph Cannata Jr. Distribution Director jcannata@centralctcommunications.com (860)225-4601

We want your contributions!

Comments and suggestions should be sent to the editor at CT Prime Time, One Herald Square, New Britain, CT 06010; faxed to (860)225-2611, or emailed to PTeditor@centralctcommunications.com

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September 2014 • Connecticut PRIME TIME

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Joan Page shows off some of the harvest at the Newington Senior and Disabled Center.

Abundant gardens C

By Erica Schmitt

ALL IT A HOBBY or a good deed, but gardening outside the Newington Senior & Disabled Center has kept more than 20 local seniors busy all summer.

All produce harvested is delivered by the basket-load to the Newington Food Pantry, which serves hundreds of families each month.

What used to be a concrete shuffleboard court behind the facility has been transformed into a lush summer garden. A paved walkway accommodates the wheelchair-bound and those with walkers; raised beds offer ledges for perching while tending to plants.

And they are many — cucumber, squash, radishes, watermelon, an abundance of cherry tomatoes, herbs, flowers, 6

Connecticut PRIME TIME • September 2014

string beans and two free-standing potato plants.

Recently, students from the Newington Transition Academy helped tend to the garden. The academy offers skills training and volunteer opportunities to highschool graduates ages 18 to 21.

“The best thing is it’s all volunteer-driven,” said Dianne Stone, senior center director. “We’re taking a passion people have and applying it to this project.”

A pavilion with picnic tables complements the grassy backyard of the senior center. Stone was looking for a way to utilize the remaining outdoor space when the idea for a garden came about.

After receiving a $2,000 grant from ACHIEVE, a healthy community program from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the garden seemed feasible.

Additional donations from the community helped turn the idea into a reality this past May. Jefferson House matched the grant and bricks for a retaining wall were purchased. The town’s Parks and Recreation Department provided

soil, highway staff offered gravel for the beds, and Stonehedge Garden Center sent seeds and starter plants.

When marigolds didn’t steer hungry deer away, wire fencing was installed around the perimeter.

Newington resident Mabel Maynard, a center member, helped build the garden beds and prepare them for the growing season. But she left the planting to the others.

“I always had large gardens when I lived in East Haddam but when I moved to Newington I didn’t have that anymore,” Maynard explained.

“The community garden plots are too large for just me to work in so I was happy when they decided to do one here.”

About 150 households in town utilize the food pantry every month, enjoying locally grown produce that is pesticide-free, thanks to Maynard. “I pushed for all organic, no GMO’s, because we don’t need any of that,” she said.

The community garden is the center’s first attempt at a self-directed volunteer program. Staff said there may be other projects on the horizon designed to keep people busy while helping Arline Hourihan the community.

September 2014 • Connecticut PRIME TIME

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Can I gift $14K to my kids?

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LMOST EVERY STEPHEN pay for the nursing home WEEK someone ALLAIRE for 3.6 months after the who needs to qualperson should have been ify for Medicaid (Title 19) eligible. asks, “Can’t I gift $14,000 The sick person, or the to each of my children? I healthy spouse, or perhaps a heard that this is allowed.” family member will have to Or another person will say pay for those months. It is a that their tax advisor told very unwelcome surprise to them they could gift $14,000 per learn that a tax-free gift that is peryear to each of their children and fectly legal from a tax standpoint, grandchildren. The tax advisor is will result in a very bad result for correct. And it is also true that Medicaid. Attorneys who practice much more can be given without elder care law are aware of these actually paying a gift tax, so that for rules, and look at the total picture many people in Connecticut, gift when doing estate planning, or taxes simply do not apply to them. planning for care for their clients.

While it is true that the Federal For example, if healthy parents gift and estate tax laws allow a per- want to gift money to their chilson to give away $14,000 per year to dren, it is necessary to take into as many people as they like without account the likelihood of sickness any gift tax consequences, it is not within five years, the amount of true that works for Medicaid. It is other assets available to pay for strictly a gift tax rule and has noth- care, or the use of long term care ing to do with Medicaid. Medicaid insurance to cover that time frame. has its own rules, and they do not There are many planning tools coordinate with tax law. available to people, both for tax If either the husband or wife minimization and long-term-care of a married couple gives away planning, and it is always advisable $14,000, and becomes sick and to get the complete picture when needs Medicaid within five years doing such planning. of the gift, the Medicaid rules will disqualify both of them from Attorney Stephen O. Allaire is a receiving Medicaid for a length partner in the law firm of Allaire of time called the penalty period. Elder Law, LLC, a member of the The penalty period is calculated National Academy of Elder Law by dividing the total amount of Attorneys, Inc., with offices at 271 money given away, by the average Farmington Avenue, Bristol, (860) monthly cost of a nursing home, 584-2384, or on the web at alwhich Connecticut now says is laireelderlaw.com. If you have a $11,581. So if three children were question, send a written note to Atgiven $14,000 each, for $42,000 torney Allaire at Allaire Elder Law, total, the penalty would be $42,000 LLC, 271 Farmington Ave., Bristol, divided by $11,581, or 3.6 months. CT, 06010, and he may use your That means Medicaid would not question in a future column.

What’s in a name?

Four years of Undergraduate Studies Four years of Medical School Years of Residency Training

A Lifetime of Caring

For all you do each and everyday… thank you!

By Erica Schmitt

N

ATIONAL PUBLIC RADIO’S Ina Jaffe, whose covers aging for the network, surveyed older Americans recently regarding the terms they use to identify themselves. Of 2,700 listeners who responded, 43 percent favored ‘older adult’,” while almost a third of respondents found ‘elder’ to be the most respectable term. Another third liked “senior” – though the term’s favorability dropped to 12 percent when the word “citizen” was tacked on to the end.

Older folks who live locally took the subject lightheartedly. The consensus seemed to be that after 60 no one should take themselves seriously enough to be offended by something so trivial.

Here are a few of their thoughts: “Nothing offends me, not name calling unless it’s done in anger.

Women are more sensitive to that.”

— Stan Funk, Plainville

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“We’re all old-timers and we all have a sense of humor about it. At my age nothing’s bad; everything’s good.”

— Moe Martel, 77, Plainville

“At my age I’m always happy. I don’t care that I’m old; we all know what we are. Everything is fine.”

— Clara Banos, 74, New Britain

“Elderly? They’ve called me worse than that.”

— Richard Vantrisco, “too old”, Southington

I know I’m almost ninety; I’m not offended by any names. Call me a senior citizen; it’s the truth. You can’t get away from your age.”

— Helene Goroman, 89, New Britain

Jaffe’s survey regarding terms for older Americans came to the following conclusions: Appropriate terms - Senior - Elder - Older adult - Retiree

Inappropriate terms - Geriatric - Over the hill - Geezer - Old fogey

Neutral terms - Elderly - Old-timer - Old folks - Golden years

Now for your input: What terms do you find most appropriate? Has someone from a youger generation offended you in regards to your age?

Please mail responses to Prime Time, 1 Court St., New Britain, CT 06051.

You can also respond by email to eschmitt@centralctcommunications.com.

September 2014 • Connecticut PRIME TIME

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THE DATE!

Protecting caregivers from financial risks I T MAY sound strange but there are significant legal and financial risks that a caregiver can assume if they are not careful before entering into a caregiving arrangement for a loved one.

It is important DANIEL O. that you enter TULLY into a caregiving situation with your eyes wide open and understand all options that are available to you.

This is extremely important if a parent moves into an adult child’s home or the adult child into the parents’ home to provide care. It is vital that a legal contract exist between the caregiver and the senior receiving care. Many fami-

lies do not take into account the importance of the care contract. Some are put off or intimidated by the legality of the agreement. It doesn’t have to be complex, but it must be in place.

When I was an Assistant Attorney General for the State of Connecticut under then Attorney General, Joe Lieberman, among the many things he taught me was that the law can and must be explained in everyday language. Senator Lieberman further noted that in explaining the law in a way that everyone understands enables all to have their rights protected. This is the cornerstone of our elder law practice.

Millions of Americans are currently caring for an elderly

family member or friend at home, without receiving regular compensation. Depending on the circumstances, however, it may actually be beneficial for both parties to enter into a care contract where the caregiver accepts payment for the care they are providing their loved one and also formally assumes responsibility for that care.

For example, as the loved ones you are caring for reach a point where nursing homes placement is the only option, all of their money will be considered available to pay for their care at the nursing home and they will not be eligible for Medicaid assistance until all of their assets have been depleted. Certainly the care they were provided by you,

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while they remained in the community, is just as valuable to them and worthy of payment as that they will be provided in the nursing home.

With a care contract in place, they can pay the caregiver and every penny will count toward their “Medicaid spend down” should they apply for benefits.

Having a care contract in place also ensures Medicaid will not impose penalties on the money received by the caretaker. Sometimes an elderly person will randomly give sums of money to their caregivers as payment of the care they provide. Without a contract in place, Medicaid will assume the money transferred as a “gift” or a “transfer of assets” and will impose penalties resulting in ineligibility for Medicaid benefits.

From a caregiver’s perspective, although they are willing to provide services for free, it is often difficult for them when at the time of their loved one’s passing; the caregiver receives the same inheritance as the other heirs, many who have not been involved in caring for the loved one. On the flip side, if a caregiver is receiving payment and there is no contract in place that defines the care they have been working hard at providing, other heirs may be upset by the additional monies the caregiver received.

The bottom line: If you are caring for a loved one or are receiving care from a loved one, a care contract is a good idea for both parties involved, for multiple reasons. Before entering a contract, be sure Continued ON, Page 23

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“Not only was it a way for me to learn history, but New Britain people were writing their own history.”

ARLENE PALMER

Arlene and Dan Palmer sit among customers at Leaves and Pages on West Main Street in New Britain.

New Britain Historian

Turning the page

New Britain’s historian set to depart for Maine

N

EW BRITAIN’S historian — and all her wisdom — are departing for Maine later this year.

That would be Arlene Palmer, who owns the popular downtown bookstore and café Leaves & Pages with her husband, Dan. 12

Connecticut PRIME TIME • September 2014

By Erica Schmitt

Frequent customers and friends were saddened this summer when the couple announced the store would be closing around Thanksgiving, after 14 years at 59 West Main St. Arlene, 65, was curator of the New Britain Public Library’s history room for

22 years and appointed city historian in 1995 when Linda Blogoslawski was mayor. She left the library in 2000 only to go around the corner and open the bookstore, which is bestknown for its eclectic collection of used titles and a King Arthur Room.

That special room, in fact, has been the site of numerous weddings, bridal and baby showers, even high teas.

“We started with 750 works and brought in another 500,” Arlene says of this particular collection.

She also enjoys 19th-century British literature and with Dan, who turned 69 in August, she shares a fascination with the Civil War. That’s one of the things that makes their future home of Brunswick, Maine, so special to them.

It was home to Joshua Chamberlain, a college professor who joined the Union Army and led his 20th Maine Regiment in the Battle of Gettysburg.

“We’ve been going up to Maine for about 35 years,” says Dan. “Brunswick has a beautiful college and a brewery.”

“It’s almost like going back in time,” Arlene added. “It has a vibrant, charming downtown.”

Once they close the store, the Palmers will take some time to ready their Burlington home to put up for sale before heading north. In retirement

they will spend time volunteering, and their book business will move online.

“There aren’t a lot of used book dealers now; we’re a dying breed,” explains Dan, who estimated that since they opened Leaves & Pages more than half of storefront dealers closed up shop.

Online dealing is more profitable, he added, especially since there are no overhead costs.

But not only will the Palmers’ departure leave a void downtown with their store closing, but it will also take a vault of city history in Arlene.

For years she guided local school children and adults on bus tours through New Britain. They’d stop at landmarks where she’d share historical anecdotes gathered from her time at the library and as a columnist with the New Britain Herald. She also helped many residents find their ancestors in the history room archives.

In her three-and-a-half years at the newspaper, Arlene treasured crafting the “Mystery Photo” feature, which gave readers a chance to identify a place in an old photograph. Their

responses were printed on the next week’s page, and often included memories and tidbits about the locations.

“Not only was it a way for me to learn history,” she remembers, “but New Britain people were writing their own history.”

She believes Central Connecticut State University will keep instilling a passion for local history in students young

and old. And though she’s no longer a tour guide, Arlene encourages people to explore the city’s past on their own, beginning with library’s history room and culminating with a visit to important landmarks.

City Hall is one, she says.

But the best way to understand the immigration of different ethnic groups into New Britain is to visit the churches.

“Pretend you’re a bird looking down at New

Britain,” Arlene explains.

“You can see where these groups settled based on what neighborhoods they built their churches.”

Her memoir, “And Now We Go” depicts she and Dan’s colorful view through the store’s windows and characters they’ve met over the years.

It is filled with humor and heart, and is being printed at Sir Speedy because the Palmers believe in the collective power of city business.

September 2014 • Connecticut PRIME TIME

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Expanding Seniors broaden fitness options

N

O MATTER what age you are, exercise is almost as important as food and sleep.

That’s the thought behind the Bristol Senior Center’s expanding array of new and fun ways to work out.

For the last three weeks of August, the senior center hosted free classes in yoga, tai chi, Zumba, tap dance and ballet.

Another class, “stretch and relax,” focused on mindful breathing and stretching.

Regular class sessions will

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Connecticut PRIME TIME • September 2014

and to relieve arthritis pain.

Tap dance can increase circulation, flexibility and endurance, while ballet helps with balance and posture.

Zumba, a high-energy form of dance, is also offered at the center, along with a slower-paced, easy-to-follow Zumba Gold class.

The classes are taught by Joan Baptist Krampitz, one of the center’s new instructors.

“In the first class we do over 15 dance routines in an hour; it’s very high-energy,” Krampitz explained. “In the second class, Zumba Gold, we cover seven to

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begin in late September, based on what staff learned about local seniors’ exercise routines and desired workouts.

“We wanted not only our members to have an idea of what classes entail, but we wanted our instructors to know what seniors’ abilities are so they can tailor classes to meet their needs,” Jason Krueger, the center’s assistant director, explained.

Promoting the importance of exercise, the new classes also aim to address common health problems in seniors.

Tai Chi, for example, is commonly used to prevent falling

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horizons with yoga, tai chi and Zumba 11 routines and people can rest in between if they want, go at their own pace.”

Bristol resident Kathy Malone regularly does Zumba at a local gym, and was excited to participate at the senior center this August.

“I wanted to try a different routine and I think it’s great they have the free classes,” she said.

During the first week of the free sessions, nine people participated in Zumba, including Dottie Sone, who moved to this country 68 years ago from the Dominican Republic.

“In my country they do a lot of Spanish dancing, and I love to dance,” she said.

On Wednesday, Sept. 10 from 9 to 11 a.m. there will be open registration for new classes and membership to the senior center.

New fitness classes will officially begin Monday, Sept. 29, along with other fall offerings, including painting, quilting, ceramics, computers and line dancing.

The cost is $20 for 10 weeks

and a membership card is required to register.

The Bristol Senior

Center is located at 240 Stafford Avenue. For more information, call (860) 584-7895.

Dottie Sone while in a Zumba class.

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HEALTHY LIVING

The ABCs of acid ref lux disease We have all probably regretted it when we heaped on extra onions and sauerkraut on our hotdog ROSALIND or tried three VAN STOLK kinds of pie at Thanksgiving.

Yes, it tasted great.

However, it may soon be obvious that the extra helping came with something more: a stomachache and a burning feeling in the chest.

Heartburn is caused by simple acid reflux: stomach

acid rises up the esophagus, causing a caustic sensation that may be accompanied by a sour or bitter taste.

This problem is not a cause for an alarm if it happens infrequently. But if it occurs several times weekly, you may have acid reflux disease or GERD, the more advanced gastroesophageal reflux disease.

The problem is not in the food itself or overeating, but the weakening of a ring of muscle or lower esophageal sphincter located at the entrance to the stomach. If this muscle doesn’t entirely close or it malfunctions,

acid can enter the esophagus.

Factors include being overweight, snacking shortly before bedtime, eating or drinking certain foods or beverages, smoking, being pregnant and taking certain medications.

Other uncomfortable symptoms of acid reflux are bloating, a sensation of food being stuck in the throat, nausea, weight loss for no reason, bad breath, dental erosion, throat problems and more.

At first, antacids may relieve minor discomfort.

However, the problem should not be ignored. To be sure, it is best to see a specialist who

can conduct diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause. Change in lifestyle habits, prescription medication and in extreme cases, surgery, may be the key.

Sufferers should not just try to live with the discomfort.

Untreated GERD can lead to more serious problems such as damage to the lining of the esophagus, bleeding ulcers, and swallowing or even breathing difficulties.

Barrett’s esophagus, a change in the lining of the esophagus, can be a precursor to a potentially fatal form of cancer.

People with acid reflux disease

don’t have to suffer indefinitely.

With prompt and proper diagnosis, treatment and precautions, it is possible to once again enjoy a delicious meal and comfortable sleep.

Gastroenterologist Rosalind Van Stolk, M.D., is a member of The Hospital of Central Connecticut medical staff.

She practices at 1 Liberty Square, New Britain, (860) 229-9688. For referrals to HOCC physicians, contact the Need-A-Physician referral

service by phone at (8000 3216244 or online at thocc.org.

Tips for enjoying outdoors without risk of skin cancer When the weather warms up do you head outdoors?

Can’t get enough of hiking, biking, sports, swimming and cookouts?

For those W. RICHARD of us living in MCQUEEN JR. climates that reflect the four seasons, soaking up the sun seems like the perfect remedy for chasing away the winter blues and doldrums.

To make your fun in the sun memorable, it’s important to take measures to help protect against skin damage, which over time could make you more susceptible to skin cancer, the most common type of cancer in the 16

United States, according to the National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health. Each year, more than 2 million people are diagnosed with various types of the disease.

Even on cloudy days and in the winter you can be exposed to harmful ultraviolet radiation, which damages the DNA in our skin cells.

Those people who are most at risk include individuals who have one or more risk factors such as: pale skin (however people of all skin colors are susceptible); unprotected and/or excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation, natural or artificial; a family history; numerous or unusual moles; or severe sunburn in the past.

Everyone should periodi-

Connecticut PRIME TIME • September 2014

cally check their skin or have someone assess those hardto-view areas of the body for signs of skin cancer.

The earlier it is detected, the better the outcome.

Skin cancer symptoms may include any change of the skin including size or color of a spot, mole or growth; a sore that never heals; oozing, bleeding or scaliness; color that spreads beyond the border of a growth; a new sensation such as tenderness, itching or pain.

If you see something that is “not right,” contact a physician immediately.

To prevent harmful sun exposure that could lead to skin cancer, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends: ∎ Stay out of the sun when

it is the strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Remember that water, snow and sand reflect and intensify the sun.

You can get sunburn during any time of day. ∎ Wear protective clothing including a long-sleeved shirt, pants, wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.

Certain fabrics offer greater protection. and there are garments on the market that are designed to provide greater ultraviolet protection. ∎ Regularly — and generously — slather on a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen.

The ADA recommends a lotion with a sun protection factor of 30 or higher; those labeled “broad-spectrum” block both UVA and UVB rays.

Reapply sunscreen approximately every two hours and after swimming or perspiring.

Now that you know the facts, don’t let the fear of sunburn or skin cancer chase you indoors.

Just take the right precautions and get out there for fun in the sun.

Internist W. Richard McQueen Jr., M.D., is a member of Hartford HealthCare Medical Group and The Hospital of Central Connecticut medical staff. He practices at 98 Main St., Suite 301, Southington, and is accepting new patients at (860) 621-6704. For referrals to HOCC physicians, please contact the hospital’s Need-A-Physician referral service at (800) 321-6244.

Say Bye Bye to the Arm Jiggle

What you will need: 5-to-10-pound dumbbells and a mat

Standing in the same position as the bicep curl, turn the dumbbells to face your thighs.

Slowly lift your arms straight out to your sides, pause a second, then back down.

Bicep curl

This work the biceps.

Hold dumbbells in each hand with your palms facing forward. Stand with your feet shoulder width apart, toes forward and knees soft. With your elbows staying at your side, slowly curl the dumbbells toward your chest then back down three-quarters, maintaining tension in the bicep.

Lateral raise

Modified push-up

This works the shoulders and arms.

This works the chest, shoulders, and triceps.

Start on your knees. Place you hands in front of you, shoulder width apart. Tuck in your stomach, and keep your upper body in a straight line.

Inhale and lower your chin almost to the floor and then exhale as your push yourself back up. If you are unable to lower yourself all the way down, that’s fine go as far as you can and it will improve with time.

SENIOR FITNESS

By Kimberly DiBattista

Overhead tricep extension

can. it from flaring out.

Remember to keep your Do all reps, then repeat head, neck and back in a on your left side. straight line and do not let Plank your hips and lower back sink.

Twenty minutes for three to four days per week and you will be on your way to the arms you always wantThis works the whole ed! arm, shoulders, chest and As always, contact your doctor for diet and nutriabdominals.

This works: triceps Lie on the floor on your tion advice based on your Stand with your feet stomach, Prop yourself up individual health needs. shoulder-width apart. on your forearms, facing Kimberly A. DiBattista, a Hold a dumbbell in your straight. certified personal trainer, can right hand and extend your Come up on your toes be reached carina1@aol.com. arm straight overhead, and keep your abdominals She is available for exerBend your elbow, lowering tucked to support your cise consultations and offers custom-tailored routines and the dumbbell behind your lower back. head, then press back up to Hold for as long as you fitness evaluations. the start position.

Try to keep your elbow pointed straight to prevent

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ave you ever waived to your friend across the room and looked down at your arm and notice some jiggle action?

Don’t worry, you’re not alone.

In fact, fixing the arm issue is a common goal of many of my female clients. It’s not only about looking good though, your arms aid in lifting and are involved in many everyday activities such as carrying your groceries and raking the leaves.

Try the following exercises one after another with no rest in between. Repeat the circuit 3-4 times and rest for 1 minute between circuits.

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17

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by James Barrick

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© 2014 United Feature Syndicate, Dist. by Universal Uclick

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Find the solution to these puzzles on page 22

EASIER

September 2014 • Connecticut PRIME TIME

19

DATEBOOK 2 | Tuesday Free blood pressure screenings Central Connecticut Senior Health Services is offering free blood pressure screenings on various dates and in convenient locations during September, including 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Southington YMCA, 29 High St., Southington.

Circle of hope support group Meets at the Bristol Hospital Hughes Auditorium at 6 p.m.

3 | Wednesday Dental Clinic The Plainville Senior Center, in cooperation with Community Health Center, Inc., will hold a dental clinic, by appointment, Sept. 3 and 4. A registered dental hygienist will provide a dental hygiene exam, dental cleaning, sealants when appropriate and x-rays when appropriate.

The program is intended for adults who have not received dental care in the last year and have difficulty accessing dental care in the community. Individuals without dental insurance will be billed a flat rate of $30 for the visit. Dental services will be billed to insurance companies for those who have dental insurance. Help in paying for the dental clinic in the form of scholarships

Let us know what’s going on Prime Time wants to tell our readers about your coming events.

It’s easy — just send us the details and a picture if you like. Our email is primetime@ centralctcommunications.com. You can also fax your announcement to (860) 225-2611 or mail it to CT Prime Time, One Court St, New Britain, 06051.

Deadline for the next issue is September 15. may be available for individuals over the age of 60.

For scholarship information and qualifications, contact Stephanie or Ronda at the Senior Center at (860) 7475728.

An enrollment form needs to be picked up at the center and completed prior to the appointment.

Southington.

6 | Saturday Open house Mulberry Gardens of Southington, an assisted living, adult day and memory care community, will host an open house on, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Marie Terzak, retirement counselor, will facilitate the event. Coffee will be served. Mulberry Gardens of Southington is located at 58 Mulberry St. in the Plantsville section of Southington.

For more information or to RSVP, please call (860) 276-1020.

7 | Sunday

Open house An open house at Cedar Mountain Commons, a notfor-profit independent and assisted living community, will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Marie Pugliese, retirement counselor, will facilitate the event.

Refreshments will be served.

Cedar Mountain Commons Tuesday is located at 3 John H. Free blood pressure screenings Stewart Drive, Newington.

For more information or Central Connecticut Senior to RSVP, please call (860) Health Services is offering free blood pressure screen- 665-7901. ings on various dates and in convenient locations Monday during September, including 11 a.m. to noon, Calendar Alzheimer’s support group House, 388 Pleasant St.,

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From 6 to 7:30 p.m., at Ingraham Manor Skilled Nursing Facility.

9 | Tuesday Friendship Club The Mulberry Gardens at Marian Heights Friendship Club, which meets on the second Tuesday of each month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., is giving people the opportunity to make new friends. The group meets at Mulberry Gardens at Marian Heights Adult Day Center, located at 314 Osgood Ave., New Britain.

THE BETTY LARUS CENTER Avery I Heights • A Village of CH

Cancer caregivers support group The support group meets at 6 p.m. at the Bristol Hospital Cancer Care Center.

11 | Thursday Free blood pressure screenings Central Connecticut Senior Health Services is offering free blood pressure screenings on various dates and in convenient locations during September, including 1 to 2 p.m., Plainville Senior Center, 200 East St., Plainville.

Adult Day Care Center

037307

Attention Senior Homeowners!

Cedar Mountain Commons recently held a ‘Battle of the Bars’ competition. Pictured here are the winners, Irene Steidl, right, with her daughter Marsha Sheehan and son-in-law Jim Sheehan as they sit with their Coffee Cookie Bars.

at Avery Heights

705-A New Britain Ave. Hartford, CT 06016

ARE YOU PROVIDING CARE FOR AN OLDER PERSON? COULD YOU USE SOME HELP? DO YOU WORRY ABOUT YOUR LOVED ONE DURING THE DAY?

Since 1972,we have provided a safe,caring and enjoyable environment for older adults. Our participants benefit from activity, stimulation, and supervision during the day.We provide nursing, personal care, meals, as well as door to door transportation to and from the center.

Call us at (860) 278-4773 for information.

DATEBOOK

14 | Sunday Open house An open house at Arbor Rose at Jerome Home, an independent, assisted living and memory care community, will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Denise Lebrocquy, retirement counselor, will facilitate the event. Arbor Rose at Jerome Home is located at 975 Corbin Ave. For more information or to RSVP, call Denise Lebrocquy,

Discussion on joint health A free discussion will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Bristol Hospital Hughes Auditorium. To RSVP, call (860) 584-8306.

16 | Tuesday Dinner with the Doc Spinal stenosis will be the topic of the Dinner with

Introductory Tai Chi class held twice a week Tuesdays Free blood pressure screenings and Thursdays at 10:30 Central Connecticut Senior a.m. or at 5:30 p.m. for only $79. Classes start Sept.

Health Services is offering free blood pressure screen- 16 through Oct. 9 at Yin Yang Taijiquan Academy, ings including 11 a.m. to 22E Andover Drive, West noon, at ShopRite, 750 Hartford.

Queen St., Southington.

No special equipment or clothing is needed. All you Tai Chi Classes need is a T-shirt, sweatTai Chi, a perfect exerpants, and socks. Call or cise for all fitness levels, has been known to improve email to sign up: (860) 9533388 or info@yinyangtaichi. your energy level, reduce com Or also check the Yin stress, and help get your balance and flexibility back. Yang Taijiquan Academy Continued, PAGE 22 Join us for a four-week HealthCare Partner.

S E E C L E A R L Y. . .

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Open house The Orchards at Southington, an independent and assisted living community, will host an open house on two Saturdays, Sept. 13 and 27, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Edesa Ciscar, retirement counselor, will facilitate the event. Coffee will be served. The Orchards at Southington is located at 34 Hobart St., Southington.

For more information or to RSVP, please call (860) 628-5656.The Orchards at Southington offers independent and assisted living, and is a not for profit member of Central Connecticut Senior Health Services, a Hartford HealthCare Partner.

15 | Monday

the Doc program set for 5 to 7 p.m. The event, led by Dr. Ahmed Khan, will be held at Southington Care Center, 45 Meriden Ave. A complimentary dinner will be served.

Please arrive no earlier than 4:45 p.m. Seating is limited and reservations are required. To RSVP, call (860) 621-9559.

Southington Care Center offers skilled nursing and rehabilitation services, and is a not-for-profit member of Central Connecticut Senior Health Services, a Hartford

032898

On the Job: Historic Songs of American Work and Trades with Rick Spencer Bristol Public Library, 5 High St., will host an afternoon music program with internationally known American folk musician, historian and staff musician at Mystic Seaport Rick Spencer, at 2 p.m. The program entitled “On the Job: Historic Songs of American Work and Trades” will also include a presentation on the labor movement in America and the modern use of work songs. There is no charge for this event. Register at BPL or call: (860) 584-7787, Ext. 2023. Made possible by CT At Work: A CT Humanities Initiative.

(860) 229-3707.

032896

13 | Saturday

21

DATEBOOK

Ave. The $25 admission will include wine tasting, gourmet hors d’oeuvres and the Wednesday appraisal of one item, to be made by an expert appraisCaregivers support group er.

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55. Sacher — ush me hard: 74. Flyers Farmington and Newington, enjoy during a fishing trip to the Farmington River.

(860) 229-3707.

Arbor Rose, offering inde56. Cuckoo wds.

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Itinerary: Abbr. podium and 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., A free blood pressure The Mad Hatter Tea Health Services. participants. The cost is $8 Calendar House, 388 67. Madness eager fare 104. Clairvoyance: 84. Norse screening will be held from Party will begiant held Sept. 22 68. Blows his as Abbr.

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12:30 to 1:30 p.m., at Pleasant St., Southington. at 85.

3:30 p.m. Participants own horn akery item 87. Online auction the Wethersfield Senior will celebrate their own Thursday 70. Temptress amages 89. Affection Center (Pitkin Community “unbirthday,” like the 71. A domestic eparably 91. Less of a just hazard Wednesday Center), 30 Greenfield Mad Hatter in “Alice in Antiques appraisal Thursday 72. Middling: Hyph. state capital 92. Withers St., Wethersfield. Cedar Wonderland”, with a menu The Antiques Appraisal een 93. Borodin’s prince area 73. Playing Free blood pressure screenings Health fair Mountain Commons and including both sweet and Faire will be held from 5 The Bristol hospital will hold Jefferson House are sponCentral Connecticut savory assortments of finger to 8 p.m., at Arbor Rose at The Bristol Senior Center Senior Health Services is soring the screening. foods, along with an abunJerome Home, 975 Corbin Continued from Page 21

website: yinyangtaichi.com

ORD17 |

ME! ME! ME!

22 |

this Weeks Work Your minD PuZZLe AnsWers

18 |

22

Connecticut PRIME TIME • September 2014

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How to stay out of the nursing home

By Paul T. Czepiga

“P

romise me you won’t ever put me in a nursing home.”

We would make our children sign in blood if we could. Our deepest desire is to hold onto our independence and way of life for as long as possible. A nursing home is not home. Home is home, and that is where we want to stay. If we’re married, we help each other as long as we’re capable.

Our children, if we have them, pitch in if they can. But they have their own Paul T. Czepiga families. Maybe they work and are afraid of putting their jobs in jeopardy when they have to take time off to handle emergencies or accompany us to the doctor. Maybe they live out of state.

The good news is the State of Connecticut helps older adults stay home. For more than 30 years, the Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders has been helping seniors stay in the community and delay or avoid nursing home placement.

Here are answers to some frequently home care program that helps peoasked questions about the program. ple who do not qualify for Medicaid because they have more assets, a highWho is eligible? er income or fewer functional needs.

According to the Department of There is a cost share on this part of the program, and you must meet the eliSocial Services, you must be: gibility requirements. The maximum ∎65 years of age or older monthly benefit for the state-funded ∎A Connecticut resident ∎Functionally at risk of nursing program is about $2800 per month.

Not sure if you qualify? Concerned home placement ∎Financially eligible based on about your property? A Connecticut elder law attorney can help you underincome and assets stand your options and assist you in What services are provided?

Medicaid planning.

A wide range of services is available, depending on your needs, including: ∎ Homemaker/companion services ∎ Visiting nurse services ∎ Home health services ∎ Home delivered meals ∎ Adult day care ∎ Emergency response system ∎ Transportation ∎ Accompaniment to medical appointments

Do I need a doctor’s referral?

No. Anyone can refer himself or herself or another person by calling the Department of Social Services Alternate Care Unit at 1-800-4455394, or by completing an online form.

A geriatric care manager will visit

you in your home, or sometimes while you are still in a rehab facility preparing to return home. The care manager will assess your needs, recommend a plan of care and assist you with the application process. Once the application is approved, your services can begin. The Connecticut Home Care Program is designed to support seniors in staying out of a nursing home for as long as possible. If you have questions about the program, or about how to plan for the future, your best bet is to contact a Connecticut elder law attorney for a consultation.

Paul T. Czepiga of CzepigaDalyPope, is a Certified Elder Law Attorney and on the Connecticut Super Lawyers list for 3 consecutive years. He is a Kensington resident and has offices in Berlin, Hartford, Simsbury and Vernon. Visit www. ctseniorlaw.com.”

How much do the services cost?

There is no charge for services if you are on the federal program Title 19, which is the same thing as Medicaid.

This program can pay up to $5800 per month for home care.

There is also a similar state-funded

The financial risks of being a caregiver Continued from Page 11

to consult someone experienced in drafting such contracts and knowledgeable with respect to their effect on Medicaid qualifications.

Also, if you have been caring for your parent for over two years, there is another Medicaid planning method that may be available that allows your parent to transfer the parent’s home to you, without incurring Medicaid transfer penalties.

This is not true in all cases, but if you and your parent meet certain

criteria, the exemption known as the “caretaker child exemption” could be a great way to ensure your parent’s home stays in the family.

Attorney Daniel O. Tully is a partner in the law firm of Kilbourne & Tully, P.C., members of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys Inc., with offices at 120 Laurel St., Bristol, (860) 583-1341. Tully will attempt to answer as many questions as possible; send yours to Kilbourne & Tully, P.C., 120 Laurel St., Bristol 06010.

September 2014 • Connecticut PRIME TIME

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What kind of

Joint Health program do you build for someone who doesn’t take life sitting down?

An extraordinary one.

Center for Orthopedic and Spine Health Advanced level joint care is available right here at Bristol Hospital. Our highly trained team specializes in today’s most progressive shoulder, hip and knee revision and replacement procedures, including Direct Anterior Hip Replacement, which means less pain, faster recovery and increased mobility. Add that to our exceptional patient outcomes and personalized care experience, and we’ll have you back to living an active life as quickly and safely as possible.

For more information, visit BristolHospital.org/GetOutThere

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Connecticut PRIME TIME • September 2014