CONNECTIONSenior

A newsletter from Mercyhealth l Spring/Summer 2019

A note from Sharon

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Welcome to the Spring/Summer edition of the Senior Connection newsletter. We have survived a very challenging winter full of snow and ice and frigid temps. I’m sure we’re all looking forward to some warmer temperatures with some lush green grass and bright-colored flowers! My hope is that you’ll join me for some of the upcoming fun and insightful presentations at the Mercyhealth Mall. A snack and beverage will be provided at these free events. I’m looking forward to seeing you soon!

Thank you,Sharon Wegler, B.A. ComMercyhealth Senior Advocate

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The world is becoming wireless and virtual. We can get nearly everything we need online. From clothes to cars and loans to lawyers, technology is changing our world. But what about health care? Virtual health care is the answer to that question.

With its passion for making lives better, Mercyhealth has now paired web-based technology with the convenience of an urgent care visit. Our new online service, called Mercyhealth Virtual Visit Now, is accessible from your smartphone, computer or tablet that has internet access, a web camera and video capabilities.

No need to leave the house or work—Mercyhealth Virtual Visit Now gives you live access to Mercyhealth medical professionals for minor health concerns like seasonal allergies, cold/flu, cough/bronchitis, sinus and upper respiratory infections, pink eye, skin conditions, lower back pain and urinary tract infections. No health insurance is required; each visit is $49. MercyCare Health Plan Members will receive 3 visits for $20 each.

Dr. Suhail Shaikh, board certified family medicine doctor at Mercyhealth South in Janesville, says, “Virtual Visit Now gives me the opportunity to

see patients where they are. It reminds me of the days when doctors used to make house calls. Virtual Visit Now brings health care to you, where and when you need it. Instead of sitting in a waiting room with a group of other sick people, our patients can now wait in the comfort of their own homes, at their desks at work, or wherever they may be.”

Enrollment is required to use this service, and it is free to enroll at MercyhealthVirtualVisitNow.org. You will need a credit card and valid photo identification. You can download the Mercyhealth Virtual Visit Now app at the Apple Store or Google Play.

A parent or other person authorized to make health care decisions must be present if the patient is under age 18. Children under the age of three may require expertise specific to pediatric care and are not eligible to receive consultations or use virtual services.

Mercyhealth Virtual Visit Now is intended for minor health concerns only. If you need emergency care, please call 911.

The Doctor Will See You NowConvenient online urgent care visits

• May 2019: 30% off Obagi® skin care products • June 2019: 30% all sunblock products • September 2019: 30% off glo SKIN BEAUTY® products • BOTOX® Cosmetic Special: 20% off your first treatment: BOTOX Cosmetic can dramatically

soften the appearance of wrinkles and provide a more rested, more youthful appearance. For new BOTOX clients only; no other offers or discounts apply. No expiration date.

For details, please call (608) 756-6300.

Special Offers at the Mercyhealth Plastic Surgery, Skin and Laser Center–Janesville

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FREE Weight Management Information Meetings

The Mercyhealth Weight Management Program gives you individualized care by creating a customized weight loss and maintenance program that fits your lifestyle, medical needs and weight loss goals. To learn more about our program and have your questions answered, attend a free meeting in Janesville or Lake Geneva.

Mercyhealth Mall1010 N. Washington St., Room 2 Janesville First Friday of the month, 8:30 amThird Wednesday of the month, 5 pm

Mercyhealth Hospital and Medical Center–WalworthHwys. 50 and 67, Room G380A Lake GenevaFourth Tuesday of the month, 4:30 pm

To register, visit WeightManagementInfo.com or call (608) 755-7996.

More than 3 million people in the United States have glaucoma. Glaucoma is a group of diseases that can cause permanent vision loss and blindness. Some forms of glaucoma don’t have any symptoms, so you may still have glaucoma even if you don’t have any trouble seeing or feel any pain. If you find and get treatment for glaucoma early, you can protect your eyes from serious vision loss.

You’re at high risk for glaucoma if one or more of these applies to you: • You have diabetes. • You have a family history of glaucoma. • You’re African American and 50 or older. • You’re Hispanic and 65 or older.

Medicare will cover a glaucoma test once every 12 months if you’re at high risk. Talk to your doctor or eye doctor for more information about scheduling a test.

Take Action to Prevent Vision Loss

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Imagine, suddenly, you find yourself with a large sum of money. But it comes with one condition: you cannot spend any of it on yourself. Who, then, will you give it to: one person; a number of people; family members; friends; charity? When will you give it to them: now; sometime in the future? How will you give it to them: all at once; spread over a period of time? And, what will

you say when you give it to them: “thank you”; “I hope you will use this for [______]”; or nothing?

This will happen. As a matter of fact, our largest financial transaction is not when we buy a car, a house; pay for a wedding, college, or a dream vacation. No, it happens when we are no longer here: more money will pass as a result of our death than at any other time during our life—when we are unable to assure how it will be distributed and used as we hoped. Do you know how yours will be distributed? And if so, are you certain it will be done as timely and cost efficiently as possible, and free from the claims of others?

Consider Mary’s estate of $600,000; comprised of life insurance ($100,000), her personal residence ($150,000), stocks/bonds/CDs ($50,000), and her IRA ($300,000). Her heirs were surprised to learn that income, not estate, taxes would be due as a result of her death. The fact is that millions of dollars are wasted every year on unnecessary taxes and estate settlement costs due to lack of planning. These dollars could have gone to family, friends, or charity. If you are interested in learning how, the Mercyhealth Development Foundation has a special gift for you.

Through the Thompson & Associates planning service, you will have an expert and objective third party specializing in crafting a personal estate plan that paints more than your financial picture. This service is complimentary and purely consultative. Thompson does not sell any product, manage money, serve as fiduciary, draft documents, or solicit gifts. It does provide a confidential “second look” at your current estate plan (whether reflected in a will, trust, or not), as well as education about the various components of the estate planning process. The result is a narrative of recommendations based upon your financial goals and personal values that you can take to your own advisors for implementation.

If you would like more information about this unique planning service, please call Anne Hagney at (815) 971-4144 in Rockford or Kristin Larson at (608) 741-2422 in Janesville.

by Charles Slamar, Vice President, Thompson & Associates

Your Largest Financial Transaction

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After the many versions of winter we’ve just experienced, it’s hard to think about the dog days of summer. But we all know those days are coming.

People aged 65 years or older are more prone to heat-related health problems. If you’re an older adult or a caretaker, review this information on how you or the person you’re caring for can stay safe during the heat.

Why are older adults more prone to heat stress?• Older adults do not adjust as well as young

people to sudden changes in temperature.• They are more likely to have a chronic medical

condition that changes normal body responses to heat.

• They are more likely to take prescription medicines that affect the body’s ability to control its temperature or sweat.

Stay cool, stay hydrated• Stay in air-conditioned buildings as much

as possible. If your home doesn’t have air conditioning, contact your local health department or locate an air-conditioned shelter in your area.

• Do not rely on a fan as your main cooling source when it’s really hot outside.

• Drink more water than usual and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.

• If your doctor limits the amount of fluids you drink or has you on water pills, ask them how much you should drink during hot weather.

• Don’t use the stove or oven to cook—it will make you and your house hotter.

• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.• Take cool showers or baths to cool down.

• Do not engage in very strenuous activities and get plenty of rest.

• Check on a friend or neighbor and have someone do the same for you.

Stay informed• Check the local news for health and safety

updates.• Seek medical care immediately if you have, or

someone you know has, symptoms of heat-related illness like muscle cramps, headaches, nausea or vomiting.

If you are a caretakerKeep a close eye on those in your care by visiting them at least twice a day, and ask yourself these questions:• Are they drinking enough water?• Do they have access to air conditioning?• Do they know how to keep cool?• Do they show any signs of heat stress?

Preventing Heat-related Illness This Summer

Source: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC.gov

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Fun Ideas for Being ActiveBeing creative about your physical activity plans and trying new forms of exercise can keep you motivated by preventing boredom. A change in seasons is an excellent time to be creative about your exercise routine and try something new. Check out these warm-weather ideas from Go4Life® from the National Institute of Aging.

Spring• As the temperatures start to get warm,

get your garden ready for spring and summer. The lifting and bending you do when gardening are great for strength and flexibility.

• A bike ride is a great way to enjoy the warmer temperatures.

• Anything can be fun with upbeat music, including spring cleaning!

• Build your endurance and strength with a bike ride during National Bike Month (May). Remember your helmet.

Summer• Swim laps or take a water aerobics class.

These are both refreshing once the weather gets steamy.

• Walking in the mall is a cool way to beat the heat.

• Now that the grandchildren are out of school for the summer, ask them to teach you their favorite sport or physical activity.

• Celebrate National Bowling Week the first week in August. Get friends and family together and challenge each other to a friendly tournament.

Is your budget stretched? Also from Go4Life are these great, low-cost suggestions for being physically active.

Close to home• Get your garden or yard in shape, and you’ll

shape up, too. Yard work such as mowing, raking and digging can keep you active at home.

• Make your own weights from household items—soup cans or bottles of water.

• Rather than driving, walk when doing errands.

In the community• Try out free demonstration exercise classes

at your local senior center or fitness center.• Participate in community-sponsored fun

runs or walks.• Join a basketball or baseball league that

plays at your community center.• Ask if your local mall currently has a mall

walking program.

In the great outdoors• Go for a hike in a park.• Learn about trees and plants while

exploring a local arboretum.

Do You Have Some Spare Time?Volunteering gets you out of the house. Volunteering helps you find new friends and a sense of purpose. Volunteering helps others. Volunteering makes you feel good.

Mercyhealth is looking for people who have a passion for making a difference in the lives of others. We offer a variety of volunteer positions at all our hospitals. At Mercyhealth Hospital and Trauma Center in Janesville, we especially welcome volunteers at the gift shop, reception desk, and to help escort patients and families.

Our Castaways Thrift Shop on Milton Avenue always welcomes volunteers too. For more information about opportunities in Janesville, call Jackie Lee at (608) 756-6739.

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CALENDAR

Caregiver Boot Camp A program for family caregiversSaturday, April 610 am – 2 pmAging and Disability Resource Center of Rock County1900 Center Ave., Janesville

This FREE event is hosted by the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Rock County and the Alzheimer’s Association South Central Wisconsin for families coping with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia. Registration is required. For more information or to register, call Cori Marsh at (608) 741-3615.

Mercyhealth Development Foundation’s Annual Golf Play DayFriday, June 28Beloit Club2327 S. Riverside Dr., Beloit

This year’s popular fundraiser for Mercyhealth at Home Home Health and Hospice will kick off in the morning with a continental breakfast, followed by 18 holes of golf, lunch and an awards ceremony. Sign up online at MercyhealthGolf.org, or by calling the Mercyhealth Development Foundation at (815) 971-4141 or (608) 755-8821.

House of Mercy Homeless Center Charity BallSaturday, April 27Janesville Country Club2615 W. Memorial Dr., Janesville

This prestigious, black-tie invited evening begins at 5 pm with a social hour, hors d’oeuvres and cocktails, followed by a gourmet dinner, music by “Hip Pocket” and a collection of truly outstanding items and packages to bid on. Cost is $100 per person.

Money raised provide homeless families with individualized success planning, rent deposits, education expense assistance, transportation, child care assistance and other needs. For more information about donating an item, sponsorships or event details, contact Kristin Larson at (608) 741-2422 or krlarson@mhemail.org.

House of Mercy Homeless Center

Charity BallSaturday, April 27

5-11 pmJanesville Country Club

MercyhealthCharityBall.org

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These FREE events are offered by Senior Connection for the health and benefit of the community. Unless otherwise noted, these events are held at the Mercyhealth Mall, 1010 N. Washington St., Janesville. Enter through the main entrance and you’ll be directed to the classroom. Refreshments are provided. Please reserve your seat one week before the event by calling (608) 756-6100.

The Importance of Good Oral HealthThursday, April 410 amAdvancing age puts many seniors at risk for a number of oral health problems. Join Angie Stone, RDH, BS, the author of the Amazon best-selling book, Dying from Dirty Teeth, as she discusses the importance of dental health for a lifetime. Learn what can happen to those who suffer from poor dental health and how to keep our mouths healthy. One lucky winner will take home a free copy of Angie’s book! This event is free and open to the public.

Start the Conversation: Advance Care PlanningTuesday, April 1610 amHave you ever known someone who had an unexpected accident or illness leaving them unable to make decisions for themselves? What if it were you? Who would you want in charge of your decisions? Start the conversation at this workshop. Having an advance directive in place is a gift to your loved ones and ensures everyone is aware of your health care wishes. You are encouraged to bring your spouse, a family member or any person you choose to make health care decisions for you in the event you become unable to do so. Mercyhealth’s team of certified advance care planning facilitators will lead you through the conversation.

Senior Connection Exclusive Events Participate. Learn. Grow.

Exercising for Weight LossThursday, April 1810 amMercyhealth physical therapist, Kyle Stengel, PT, DPT, shows participants a multi-dimensional approach to weight management with an emphasis on exercise. This class will benefit individuals who want to achieve a healthy weight through lifestyle changes. You will learn about the prevalence and risk of obesity, benefits of low-intensity exercise, why we eat, obesity cycle, most effective approach to managing weight, and better understanding of exercise and diet.

Take the Pain out of GardeningThursday, May 210 amHarvest the wellness benefits of gardening! Push back your body’s limits by staying active and cultivating better overall health, while protecting yourself from injury or aggravation of existing health conditions. Mercyhealth occupational therapist, Alita Dorn, OTR, CPEE, will help us explore how planning, pacing, and using the right tools can help you build and maintain your garden with more enjoyment and safety.

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CarFit for the Older DriverSaturday, May 11, 10 am – 2 pmSaturday, August 10, 10 am – 2 pm Note: 20-minute CarFit appointments are held at Janesville Fire Station #5, 1414 Newport Ave., Janesville. What is CarFit? This educational program offers older adults the opportunity to check how well their personal vehicles fit them. It also provides information and materials on community-specific resources that could enhance their safety as drivers, and/or increase their mobility in the community.

Why is CarFit important? Older drivers are often the safest drivers in that they are more likely to wear their seatbelts, and less likely to speed or drink and drive. However, older drivers are more likely to be killed or seriously injured when a crash does occur due to the greater fragility of their aging bodies. CarFit improves adult driver safety by addressing cognitive abilities and skills and by ensuring their cars are properly adjusted for them. A proper fit in your car can greatly increase not only your safety but also the safety of others.

How is a CarFit check completed? At these Janesville events, Mercyhealth occupational therapist, Alita Dorn, OTR, CPEE, works with each participant to ensure they fit their vehicle properly for maximum comfort and safety. A CarFit check takes approximately 20 minutes to complete. To reserve your spot, call Jennifer McIlhone, Rock County Mobility Manager, at (608) 757-5408 or visit Car-Fit.org/CarFit/RegisterCarFit.

To learn more, visit Car-Fit.org.

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Work Station Set-up Thursday, June 610 amLearn about healthy body positioning for needlework, sewing, artwork, cooking, workbench projects, and computer/desk work. Mercyhealth occupational therapist, Laurie Weber-Schwarzenberger, OTR, CHT, demonstrates basic functional ergonomic principles that you can apply to your workstations at home and/or work environments. Use these within your daily activities to reduce injury risk factors and prevent potential musculoskeletal injuries, especially as you age.

Exercising with ArthritisThursday, July 1110 amResearch shows that people can and should exercise when they have arthritis. In fact, exercise is considered the most effective non-drug treatment for reducing pain and improving movement for people with osteoarthritis. Mercyhealth occupational therapist, Cris Platts, OTR, will outline three kinds of exercises important for people with arthritis: Range of motion/flexibility, aerobic/endurance, and strengthening.

Assistive Devices for ArthritisThursday, August 110 amMercyhealth occupational therapist, Stephanie Krueger, OTR, CHT, will show participants how to find and use assistive devices to improve their functional independence in a variety of daily activities.

Cooking with HerbsThursday, August 810 amIn this session you will learn how to use herbs in cooking to increase overall flavor without needing the addition of salt. Join Mercyhealth clinical dietitian, Katherine Franz, RD, CD, for an informal yet informative session to spice up your cooking!

Falls and BalanceThursday, September 510 amLearn about safety strategies to decrease your risk of falling as well as the importance of strength and balance to maintain and improve our balance.