senior lifestyle 2015

The Crescent-News Wednesday, July 22, 2015

Costly Medicare mistakes | Early shingles signs | Boost brain power and stay sharp Time tested aging tips | Macular degeneration | Summer heat protection

1

Senior Lifestyle2

Call a Laurels team member at419-782-7879 or

419-783-1824

The Laurels of Defiance...Your Best Choice for Rehab and Nursing Care!

I am Sue Smith, a 31 year STNA (nursing assistant) at The Laurels of Defiance. Sue and Mike live in Defiance. Sue has 2 children, Ben and Katherine and 5 grandchildren. I have just celebrated 31 years of working as a nursing assistant at The Laurels of Defiance. I started working on the floor doing direct

guest care for 29 years and am currently working in Central Supply. This job is who I am…it’s ALL about taking care of our guests and making sure they are happy. When not working at The Laurels, I enjoy

gardening and rock hunting.

I am Sandi Skiver, a 35 year STNA(nursing assistant) at The Laurels of Defiance. I live in Continental with my wonderful husband, Stan. We have 3 married children, who have blessed us with 8 amazing

grandchildren. I recently celebrated 35 years of working as a nursing assistant at The Laurels of Defiance. It is great to have a job that I continue to enjoy, even after all of these years. The work is

sometimes challenging, but very rewarding. I can’t imagine doing anything else. When I’m not taking care of the guests at The Laurels, I enjoy camping, gardening and spending time with my family.

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This is Earl Fulk at The Laurels of Defiance for short term rehab fol-lowing a hospital stay. He was at another nursing facility and “wasn’t getting enough therapy and was recieving poor nursing care.” So he came to The Laurels of Defiance from the hospital. When asked why he was doing so well at The Laurels, he and his family say, “ It’s because of the great rehab and the great over-all nursing care.” He is receiving 2 1/2 hours of therapy 7 days per week.

This is Linda Frederick. She had inpatient therapy and is now doing outpatient therapy. Linda states, “I love this place! The therapy is great, I wouldn’t go anywhere else. The staff at The Laurels is so kind and they treat you like family. They push you to do everything you need to do to go home. The Laurels is the BEST in the region!”

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PAGE 2 - Senior Lifestyles, The Crescent-News, Wednesday, July 22, 2015

How men and women experience retirement differently(BPT) — What’s retire-

ment like? The answer may depend upon whether you’re a man or a woman.

Women report more posi-tive experiences in retire-ment than men, yet also say they are more likely to expe-rience negative emotions, especially stress, according to a study conducted by MassMutual. The study’s findings have implications for retirement planning, both financially and emo-tionally.

“Women often experi-ence high levels of stress before retirement as they juggle both professional and family responsibili-ties,” said Elaine Sarsynski, executive vice president of MassMutual Retirement Services.

“We are learning that the stress women feel often car-ries over into retirement, but we’re also hearing that women often make more of their retirement opportuni-ties and experiences than men.”

The study surveyed 905 retirees within 15 years after retirement and 912 pre-retir-ees within 15 years before retirement. The responses for both groups were even-ly split between men and women and respondents had a minimum of $50,000 in retirement savings.

One in five women (20 percent) is at least moder-ately stressed in retirement compared to 15 percent of men, the study found. Women also are more likely to feel frustrated, sad, lone-ly and nervous.

Before retirement, women are much more likely than men to report being stressed. The study found that 49 percent of women pre-retirees say they are at least moderately stressed compared to 38 percent of men pre-retirees.

Though whether you are a man or a woman, saving for retirement contributes to positive emotions and experiences in retirement. Those who have a 401(k)

or other retirement savings plan were more likely to report experiencing posi-tive emotions as compared to those who did not. Of the retirement plan partici-pants, 74 percent say they are “extremely” or “quite a bit” happy compared to 68 percent who did not par-ticipate in a retirement plan and 70 percent of retirement plan participants say they are “extremely” or “quite a bit” relaxed compared to 61 percent who did not have a plan.

“Overall, positive emo-tions for both men and women tend to increase and negative emotions tend to decrease in retirement,” said Mathew Greenwald, president of Greenwald & Associates, whose firm con-ducted the study on behalf of MassMutual. “People also tend to exaggerate expectations for retirement, especially women, partly because it’s difficult for many people to envision what life in retirement will actually be like.”

In the years before retire-ment, women have marked-ly higher expectations than men for enjoying the social aspects of retirement and somewhat lower expecta-tions for their financial for-tunes. During retirement, women report having less free time than men and yet are more likely to have new experiences, find more time for friends, and enjoy more opportunities. Men’s expec-tations tend to be more in line with their eventual experiences, which are typically less fulfilling than women, according to the study.

Sarsynski recommended that pre-retirees take steps to help themselves gain a more concrete understand-ing of what their lives may be like once they retire.

“Spend time with retir-ees to gain insights and better prepare both finan-cially and emotionally for retirement,” Sarsynski said. “We also suggest that pre-

retirees track all of their purchases, especially when on vacation or participat-

ing in activities they enjoy. That will help them better understand how costly, and

therefore how feasible, the lifestyle they envision will actually be.”

According to a study, women report more positive experiences in retirement than do men. But more women experi-

ence stress before retirement than do men.

Photo courtesy of Brandpoint

Senior Lifestyle3

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Senior Lifestyles, The Crescent-News, Wednesday, July 22, 2015 - PAGE 3

Three costly mistakes baby boomers make with Medicare(BPT) — Each day, thou-

sands of people in the U.S. turn 65, and they’re faced with making choices about the Medicare program. Unfortunately, many peo-ple’s missteps mean they end up paying too much for health care coverage.

“A study published by Health Affairs, a peer-

reviewed health care jour-nal, estimated that more than 20 percent of people are paying at least $500 too much each year for their prescription drug Part D plans,” said Tricia Blazier, director of the Allsup Medicare Advisor.

Blazier said the study found that only 5 percent

of Medicare beneficiaries chose the lowest cost Part D plan. Researchers also found that many people overpaid for a Medicare plan, missing out on other plans that would better meet their needs at less cost.

“You may have 20 or more plans to choose from with different features.

These plans come with a wide range of costs, and the highest premiums are sometimes double the low-est.”

If you’re a baby boomer, here are three costly and common mistakes you might be making with your Medicare coverage.

You make hasty choices because you’re employed.

“Often people auto-matically signed up for Medicare at 65 even if they were still working,” said Blazier. “But health benefits are becoming more compli-cated and this is less com-mon.”

For example, more baby boomers are using high-deductible health plans (HDHP), which carry restrictions for people who want to use Medicare, too. There also are penalties for improperly delaying enroll-ment in certain parts of Medicare.

“Making these choices quickly can carry some unexpected costs,” said Blazier. “You don’t want to miss your first-time enroll-ment period without taking a closer look.”

You sign up for tradi-tional Medicare for con-venience. Traditional

Medicare includes Part A, hospital services, and Part B, medical services. Many first-time enrollees also buy a prescription drug Part D plan and supplemental insurance, or Medigap.

“You may think it’s easier to just enroll in the tradi-tional package of Medicare benefits, but your costs can really add up.”

Nearly 16 million peo-ple enrolled in Medicare Advantage plans in 2014, an increase of almost 20 per-cent since 2012, according to data provided by the Kaiser Family Foundation.

Medicare Advantage plans offer an alternative to traditional Medicare. They can replace several plans with one form of health-care coverage. “You can see some incredible cost savings by taking a look at Medicare Advantage plans,” said Blazier. You can find ser-vices and resources to com-pare Medicare Advantage and traditional Medicare plans at websites such as Medicare.Allsup.com.

You look for shortcuts by choosing a family member or friend’s Medicare plan.

“It’s easy to enroll in Medicare,” said Blazier.


Baby boomers should check their Medicare supple-mental coverage carefully as there may be other plans that can be less expensive.

•Mistakes,Page8

Senior Lifestyle4

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This survey is conducted every two years and measures the quality of care and the quality of life that our resi-dents experience. Surveys are sent to family members that are knowledgeable about the care that has been received. Questions pertain to overall satisfaction, activities, choic-es, direct care, administration, meals, dining and resident environment.

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Senior Lifestyle5

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Knowing the early signs of shingles may save years of pain

(BPT) — Did you know almost one out of three peo-ple in America will develop shingles in their lifetime? A whopping one million Americans experience the condition each year, accord-ing to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Understanding the early signs and symptoms can help you protect yourself and loved ones and may enable you to enroll in a clinical trial of a new drug therapy designed to treat the pain associated with

shingles. “Shingles, also known

as herpes zoster, can affect anyone who has recovered from chickenpox at any age, but as you get older you are more likely to get the disease,” said Stephen K. Tyring, MD, PhD, derma-tologist and virologist.

“In fact, the majority of shingles cases occur in peo-ple age 50 years or older.”

Tyring said that the first sign of shingles is often pain, burning or tingling on the torso or face. This

can occur one to five days before the physical signs of shingles — typically a rash and blisters — appear. This can make early diagnosis difficult.

“Shingles is challenging to identify in its early stage because the pain appears to not be associated with a particular disease,” he said. “Making patients aware of the early symp-toms is important because if shingles progresses with-out treatment the pain may increase and the rash and blistering will become more pronounced.

Tyring urged everyone to be aware of the early signs

of shingles and the impor-tance of seeking treatment immediately.

People tend to try to “wait it out” and visit the doctor only when the symptoms and pain become severe.

Visiting a doctor prompt-ly within 72 hours of the first blister can help ensure you get the professional advice necessary to over-come the illness.

The rising incidence of shingles highlights the need for better therapies to help patients — particularly those at increased risk, such as seniors or those with a compromised immune sys-tem.

A new clinical trial is seeking participants to test a promising drug therapy that is designed to treat the pain associated with shin-gles, known as post-herpet-ic neuralgia or PHN. PHN can last for several months or even years after the rash goes away and it occurs in about 20 percent of people who get shingles.

If you or a loved one is diagnosed with shingles, you may be able to partici-pate in this important clini-cal trial. Here are some of the criteria patients must meet in order to participate in the study:

• Be 50 years of age or older.

• Are able to receive your first dose of study medica-tion within 72 hours (three days) of a possible shingles rash appearing.

• Have not received the shingles vaccine.

“Shingles is on the rise and more potent drugs are needed,” said Tyring. “This clinical trial will help the medical community learn more about how to best treat this disease so every-one can stay as healthy as possible.”

Learn more by visiting: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02412917?term=nct02412917&rank=1.

One out of three people will develop shingles in their lifetime. Persons who have had chicken pox can come down with shingles as it is caused by the same

virus. Early symptoms of shingles include a burning or tingling feeling on the torso or face.


Senior Lifestyle6

Zumba Classes on

mondays and Thursdays – 10am -11am

arTs and CrafTs every Wednesday starting at 10am

arT Classes available by Jbo the 4Th Thursday of the monTh

♠♣ Card Club ParTies onCe a monTh ♥♦

evening meals with enTerTainmenT(usually every) 4Th Wednesday - suggested $5 donation

seniors nighT ouT to area resTauranTs(once per month)

oPen miC nighT every 1sT Wednesday of the month

UpComing EvEnts & ACtivitiEsDefiance Senior Center

140 E. BroAdwAy st., dEfiAnCE

for more information on these activities and programs and so muCh more please contact

dawn Knox - activity Coordinator at 419-782-3233.

Monday - Friday 7am – 3pm We have Wi-Fi throughout the building, our Library has 2 neW

computers with printer, we offer Bible Study, Bingo and we play Pepper every day. You can check your BLood PreSSure or do Chair exerCiSeS or use the exerCise room free of charge (with 2 treadmills and a 42” TV)

TransporTaTion: for doctors appts., groceries, hair dressers, and to the senior Center for an affordable suggested donation

DeliCious lunChes available to seniors 60 and older for a suggested $3 donation

MonDay through FriDay - 11:30aM - 1:00pM

every Wednesday

the

for doctors appts.,


Senior Lifestyle7

Staying active is important and although I might be slowing down, I don’t intend

to stop. I still want to be able to play golf, ride my bike or log my daily treadmill

miles. Over the last few years, a lot of my buddies have undergone hip and knee

replacement surgeries and now are as good as new. Of course, the rehab took

some time – especially for those who tried to do it on their own.

The Transitional Care Unit at Brookview Healthcare Center offers the perfect

place to recover following hip or knee replacement –even heart surgeries or

stroke. Brookview features a dedicated unit with private rehab suites, an advanced

therapy gym and as well a trained staff of therapists as you’ll find anywhere.

So don’t fumble your recovery. Check out the new Transitional Care Unit

at Brookview today.

Brookview’s Transitional Care Unit (TCU) features private rehab suites,

advanced therapy gymand therapists trained to

get you home fast.

Rehab-to-home services following joint replacement

surgery, heart attack, stroke, accident or other

major medical event.

Restoring your health…Returning you home.

Part of the Peregrine Family of Ohio-Based Health Services Communities

214 Harding St., Defiance, Ohio 43512 419-784-1014 www.brookviewhealthcare.com

BROOKVIEWHealthcare Center

Don’t fumble your recoveryCoach Earle Bruce, former head football coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes


“Maybe a little too easy.” But it’s not uncommon to have buyer’s remorse once the coverage begins and it’s clearer how much or how little the plan covers.

Some of the biggest mis-takes happen when indi-viduals turn 65 and enroll in Medicare for the first time. It can be challeng-ing to find accurate, up-to-date information in order to make fair comparisons among all the options.

But doing some research, especially with the help of a Medicare specialist, can mean big savings that more than makes up for the extra effort.

Find more information at Medicare.Allsup.com.

MistakesFrom Page 4

Ways for seniors to protect against the summer heat

(BPT) — Staying cool dur-ing summer heat isn’t just a question of comfort for senior citizens, it’s a matter of good health.

High temperatures can lead to serious heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and older people are at greater risk, no mat-ter where they live, health experts say.

“As we get older, it gets more difficult for our bodies to manage extreme heat,” said Dr. Kevin O’Neil, chief medical officer for Brookdale senior living. “A number of factors contrib-ute to this problem, includ-ing physiological changes, increased use of medica-tions — such as diuretics — that can contribute to dehydration, chronic health conditions, and dementia that may make it difficult for people to recognize thirst or to know how to properly protect themselves from sun and heat.”

Heat-related deaths occur more frequently among

older people than young-er age groups, with those older than 75 being substan-tially more at risk, accord-ing to a 2014 National Health Statistics Report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In fact, heat-related illnesses claimed more than 3,300 lives between 2004 and 2010 — more than 1,200 fatali-ties occurred among people older than 64.

O’Neil, whose organiza-tion serves approximately 100,000 seniors in 1,147 communities throughout the United States, offers guidance on how seniors and their care-givers can act to prevent heat-related ill-nesses:

• Learn the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are the most seri-ous forms of heat-relat-ed illness, and they can be fatal for older people. Symptoms of heat exhaus-tion include heavy sweat-ing, nausea, weakness or

fainting, and cold, clammy skin. Heat stroke symptoms include a body temperature higher than 103 degrees Fahrenheit, hot or red skin, a fast pulse and possible unconsciousness.

If you recognize any of these symptoms in yourself or a senior loved one, seek medical assistance immedi-ately. For heat stroke symp-toms, call 911 for help. It’s critical to treat both condi-tions as quickly as possible.

• Fight dehydration “Seniors can be at particu-

lar risk of becoming dehy-drated during the summer,” O’Neil said. “Normally, when we get hot, our bodies sweat to dissipate the heat, but if you’re dehydrated the volume of fluid in your body is already depleted. That can impact your vas-cular system, which can affect your blood pressure.”

Aging may make you less able to perceive thirst, too, so you may not realize you need fluid. “I tell people to drink more than you’re thirsty for, especially when

exercising or in warmer weather. Eating fruits and vegetables with a high water content, like water-melon, is also a good way to increase your fluid intake, especially if you have trou-ble remembering to drink more.”

• Watch for signs of dehy-dration, including urine that’s a darker yellow, rather than pale or clear. Mild dehydration can lead to heat cramps, and you can combat mild dehydra-tion by simply drinking more. Severe dehydration can lead to heat stroke and may require treatment with

intravenous fluids.• Be aware of medica-

tions’ effect on heat-related illnesses.

Most seniors are on at least one type of medica-tion, and diuretics are a common treatment for multiple common disor-ders, including high blood pressure. Diuretics can contribute to dehydration, and other medications may lower your resistance to the effects of extreme heat.

If you’re on a diuretic, increase your water intake during the summer. Be aware that alcoholic bever-


Several ways for seniors to protect against summer heat include drinking enough fluids and being aware of medication’s effect on heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

•heat,Page11

Senior Lifestyle8

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424 East Second St. Defiance, OH130 South Lynn St. Bryan, OHPhone Toll Free- 1-877-782-8250E-Mail: [email protected]


Gene therapy improves ‘bionic ear’ technology

A procedure that uses a series of electric jolts to inject lab-designed DNA molecules into cells of the inner ear may help to regrow auditory nerves in people with profound hearing loss, according to researchers.

In a paper published recently in Science Translational Medicine, Australian researchers said they used tiny electrodes and gene therapy to regen-erate nerve cells in chemi-cally deafened guinea pigs.

The procedure, they said, may one day improve the functioning of human cochlear implants — elec-tronic devices that provide hearing sensations to the deaf.

“People with cochle-ar implants do well with understanding speech, but their perception of pitch can be poor, so they often miss out on the joy of music,” said senior author Gary Housley, a professor of neu-roscience at the University of South Wales.

“Ultimately we hope that after further research, peo-ple who depend on cochlear implant devices will be able to enjoy a broader dynamic and tonal range of sound,” Housley said in a prepared statement.

Housley and his col-leagues studied the pro-cedure on guinea pigs because the structure of their inner ear is similar to that of humans.

The cochlea is shaped like a snail’s shell, and is filled with a multitude of tiny hair cells that move in response to sound vibra-tions. Those vibrations are then converted into electri-cal nerve impulses that are carried to the brain.

If the hair cells are lost or damaged due to age, genet-ics, chemical poisoning or loud noise, they will not

grow back. In some people who are profoundly deaf, an electrode may be implanted within the cochlea that can stimulate some nerve cells.

While cochlear implants help roughly 300,000 patients throughout the world to detect and inter-pret speech, research-ers believe they can be improved if nerve cells are encouraged to grow closer to the electrode. In this lat-est study, Housley and his colleagues set out to stimu-late growth in spiral gangli-on neurons in guinea pigs.

Study authors believed they could do this by caus-ing inner ear cells to pro-duce neurotrophins, pro-teins that control the devel-opment, maintenance and function of nerve cells.

Researchers injected short, ring-like sections of DNA, or plasmids, into the animal’s ears, in order to drive the expression of so-called brain-derived neuro-trophic factor, or BDNF, as well as fluorescent marker genes. The scientists then used electrodes similar to cochlear implants to send between 4 and 100 volts of electricity into the animal’s cochlea.

When cells are exposed to electric current, it causes their membranes to become extremely permeable, allowing the injected plas-mids to enter the cell and direct production of the necessary proteins. This technique is known as close field electroporation, or CFE.

Study authors said that they observed regrowth of nerve cells in the ears of guinea pigs that underwent the electric pulse treatment, while those who did not, showed no nerve growth.

When researchers tested the deafened guinea pigs two weeks later, they found that their cochlear implants were able to stimulate the new nerve cells and trigger a response in their brain.

By MONTE MORINLos Angeles Times (TNS)

Senior Lifestyle9

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New treatments help elders with macular degeneration(BPT) — When Joan Nick,

an 87-year-old retiree, was diagnosed with the dry form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in her left eye, she was worried about going blind.

Joan had already lost sight in her right eye in her 60s due to glaucoma, so the vision in her left eye was all she had and she didn’t want to lose it.

As there are no treatments for dry AMD other than supplements that slow pro-gression in some patients, Joan’s AMD was monitored through regular eye exams to detect changes. Then, one day during an exam, Joan’s ophthalmologist asked her to read an eye chart; and to her surprise, she couldn’t

read it at all. Her condition had progressed to the more severe, wet form of AMD.

Joan is one of an estimated 11 million Americans who have some form of AMD, a disorder that erodes the central vision, making it difficult to read, drive or recognize faces. This vision loss can occur slowly, but in some cases like Joan’s it is sudden.

While AMD is the lead-ing cause of legal blindness among seniors in the United States, recent advances in treatment has made the dis-ease more manageable than ever — great news for peo-ple like Joan.

Treatments are better than ever.

Joan’s condition, wet

AMD, is the form that reduces vision quickly and is responsible for 90 per-cent of all legal blindness related to AMD. Ten years ago, wet AMD was con-sidered largely untreatable and many patients experi-enced severe, irreversible vision loss. But with the introduction of new treat-ment options, such as anti-VEGF (anti-vascular endo-thelial growth factor) drugs, which are injected into the eye, more patients with the condition are maintaining their eyesight and avoiding permanent vision loss.

Joan is one of them. With regular treatment, she is now able to read and cook and do the things she enjoys. She even shares her

positive experience with other people who are con-sidering treatment for their

AMD.“The question they always

ask me is, ‘Will it hurt?’ and I tell them, ‘No, it will not,’” Joan said. “It certainly isn’t as much trouble as it is to be blind — and I know that from my own experience!”

Schedule an eye exam today.

Risk factors for AMD include increasing age, race and family history. In its earliest stages, AMD may not have any symptoms. Eye exams are critical to diagnosing AMD in its early stages and monitor-ing its progression. Oral nutritional supplements may be advised for some people with the dry form of the disease. If it advances to wet AMD, eye exams enable patients to know when to start treatment before their vision perma-nently deteriorates.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology rec-ommends a baseline eye exam by age 40 and that older Americans get an eye exam every one-two years. Seniors who have not had a recent eye exam or for whom cost is a concern may qualify for EyeCare America, a public service program of the Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology that offers eye exams and care at no out-of-pocket cost for eligible seniors age 65 and older. Visit www.eyec-areamerica.org to see if you are eligible.


New treatments may help elders with macular degeneration regain some of the vision they have lost due to the disease.

Senior Lifestyle10

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ages may also affect your body’s ability to regulate temperature. Talk to your doctor about your medica-tions and how they may affect you during times of extreme heat.

• Be aware of how your medical conditions might elevate your risks.

Certain medical condi-tions, such as neuromus-cular disorders, cardiovas-cular disease and renal dis-ease, can increase your risk of overheating, and make you more likely to suffer from heat-related illnesses. People with Alzheimer’s or other dementia may not know when they’re feeling thirsty or too hot, and may not be able to communi-cate how they’re feeling. Be aware that heat can also make medical conditions worse. Heat-related issues can elevate your risk of fall-ing, and falls are a leading cause of hospitalization for seniors.

• Take steps to stay cool.Avoid exercising during

the heat of the day, espe-cially outdoors, and moni-tor weather reports for temperature and air-quality forecasts. Choose exercises like swimming and water aerobics, and consider exer-cising indoors. Check and change the air-condition-ing filters in your home to ensure your air condition-ing is working at its best to keep you cool.

• Choose lightweight, light-colored clothing to help your body stay cool.

• Protect your skin from sun damage.

Older skin is less efficient at producing melatonin, so it’s important to wear sun-screen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. It’s also a good idea to talk with your doctor about tak-ing a Vitamin D supple-ment because, as you age, your skin is less efficient at converting vitamin D into its active form on exposure to the sun. And although sunblock is highly recom-mended to reduce your risk of sunburn and skin cancer, it can contribute to vitamin D deficiency.

heatFrom Page 8

Senior Lifestyle11

Depression in the Older AdultIt’s real, it’s overwhelming.

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Depression can develop at any age. But did you know that depression in the older adult can now be treated right here, close to home! At Fulton County Health Center, our FulCare Geriatric Program is designed for the particular needs of depression in the older population, age 60 and above.

As you grow older, you face significant life changes that can put you at risk for depression. Risk factors that contribute to depression in older adults include major health problems, disability, chronic or severe pain, and cognitive or memory decline. You may struggle with loneliness. Maybe you feel a reduced sense of purpose. For some, worry about health concerns or fear of dying can feel overwhelming.

However, depression is not an inevitable part of aging. There are many steps you can take to overcome depression. At FulCare, we offer focused treatment for depression in older adults in a safe and comfortable environment. We offer both inpatient and intensive outpatient treatment options.


Some time-tested tips for aging well

(BPT) — A health renais-sance is taking place in America as more people are embracing aging well and being proactive rather than reactive about their well-being. Prevention has become the focus, and many aging Americans are turn-ing to time-tested methods for keeping their bodies and minds healthy so they can live longer, higher-quality lives.

Kristen Johnson, certi-fied personal trainer, regis-tered dietician and nutrition expert at www.ontargetliv-ing.com, points out five time-tested strategies for aging well:

• Daily exercise“Daily movement is the

real fountain of youth. It keeps us healthy from the inside out,” said Johnson. She noted that quality over quantity is what really mat-ters.

“When it comes to improving overall fitness, high-intensity exercise for a short amount of time may be much more beneficial than low intensity for a long amount of time,” Johnson said. “Research suggests that fat-burning hormones like human growth hor-mones and testosterone are stimulated by high-intensi-ty exercise, while fat-storing

hormones like cortisol may be lowered. Try increasing the intensity and frequen-cy of your exercise, while decreasing the time spent.”

• SuperfoodsThe foods you eat influ-

ence how you look and feel, from glowing and confi-dent to lethargic and sick. Selecting foods that people have eaten historically as nutritional powerhouses

can help boost overall well-ness.

“Superfoods are nutrient-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, ancient grains, healthy fats and lean pro-teins,” said Johnson. “These foods naturally contain high amounts of antioxi-dants, vitamins and miner-als, which all contribute to healthy aging.”

A few to focus on:

• Carrots, squash and sweet potatoes are extreme-ly beneficial for eye and skin health, thanks to high levels of beta-carotene, a type of vitamin A.

• Any brightly colored fruits and vegetables will have an abundant amount of antioxidants, and these help prevent oxidation and cell damage. Examples:

Aging well can include simple activi-ties such as exercise, eating healthy

food and getting sufficient sleep. Photo courtesy of Brandpoint

•aGiNG tiPs,Page13

Senior Lifestyle12

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raspberries, kale and cab-bage.

• Carbohydrates like healthy grains, beans and potatoes help you produce serotonin, a calming and satiety hormone that helps fight stress and anxiety’s negative effects.

• NutrientsSupplements help fill

nutritional gaps, especially as the aging body requires greater amounts of certain vitamins and minerals. Johnson pointed out the importance of omega-3s for aging well.

“Omega-3 fats are essential for getting you healthy from the inside out, all while helping improve hormonal bal-ance, brain health, weight loss and metabolism,” she said. “Omega-3 fats are also extremely helpful for healthy skin, hair and nails.”

Her favorite? Nordic Naturals Cod Liver Oil. “This contains EPA and DHA, both of which con-tribute to a healthy heart and brain,” she said. “Cod liver oil also helps improve cellular function, energy and mood. Did you know cod liver oil can actually taste good? Try their deli-cious orange flavor.”

• Sleep“Chronic lack of sleep

is one of the fastest ways to age the human body,” Johnson said. “Lack of sleep can have a huge impact on the appearance of skin, causing fine lines, wrinkles and dark under-eye circles. Not getting enough sleep can also cause your body to release a stress hormone called cortisol.”

She noted that adequate sleep can positively influ-ence cognitive ability, mood, weight loss and skin rejuvenation, so it should be a top priority for an aging-well routine. While the right amount of sleep will vary between indi-viduals, the goal for most adults is around seven-eight hours a night.

• Social activityHuman interaction can

decrease as people age,

but it’s more important than ever to form and maintain bonds with oth-ers. Participating in social activity is a fun way to enjoy life and reap real health benefits.

“The American Medical Association has noted that stress is the basic cause for more than 60 percent of all human illnesses and diseases,” said Johnson. ‘”When you are socially

active and surround your-self with people you enjoy, you may be less likely to feel lonely, unhappy, or unfulfilled, all of which can cause unwanted stress.”

Finally, there’s no need

to become overwhelmed; start an aging-well routine by taking one small step and building healthy hab-its over time. This is what will lead to long-term suc-cess.

aGiNG tiPsFrom Page 12

Senior Lifestyle13

At Henry County Hospital we’re committed to treating your pain through a comprehensive hospital-based approach to pain management, with an emphasis on advanced treatments that are more tolerable and less invasive.

We provide care for a range of conditions:• Neck and back pain• Headaches• Fibromyalgia• Arthritis pain

We accept most insurance plans, including worker’s compensation.Henry County Hospital is committed to the patients of Henry County by providing a physician-directed approach to pain management, and educating patients and caregivers. We’re working hard to make a difference for the whole community.Your Partner for Life.

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These home renovations for seniors are safe and stylish

(BPT) — Gray hair, wrinkles and frailty are no longer inevitable aspects of growing older; medical sci-ence and a better under-standing of health, nutrition and exercise mean more people are living healthy, active and more youthful lives. Likewise, aging in place no longer means sac-rificing style for safety. It’s now possible to preserve your home’s beautiful decor while updating it to better accommodate your needs during your golden years.

“As the baby boomers age, manufacturers are pay-ing more attention to creat-ing products that work for all ages,” said Jean-Jacques L’Henaff, vice president of design for American Standard. “Consumers are both more discerning about

design and style, and in need of products that are easier to use and more accessible. The focus has shifted to designing products that fit everyone’s needs elegant-ly and discreetly, without compromising style.”

The emergence of univer-sal design is most evident in the bathroom. If you’ll be upgrading your bathroom any time soon, with the goal of staying in your home independently for years to come, keep in mind these important features:

• Lighting — Bathroom lighting is multi-functional and multi-layered, serving family members of all ages and mobility levels. When creating a bathroom light-ing plan to facilitate aging in place, it’s important to find the perfect balance between safety and aesthetics.

The American Optometric Association said older eyes need lighting that is uni-form from one room to another, glare-free, and at a brighter level. Bathroom lighting should include a combination of overhead and task fixtures, such as dual row lights on either side of mirrors. Night light-ing is essential and should be low level so your eyes need less time to adjust. Dimmer switches and illu-mination controls at the entrance to the room can

help users achieve the light levels they need. It’s pos-sible to find a wide vari-ety of bathroom light fix-tures that are beautifully designed while fulfilling these requirements.

• Accessories — Grab bars are an essential element of bathroom safety for anyone with mobility and balance issues. Commonly, grab bars appear in the areas of a bathroom where fall risks are greatest, including in showers and tubs, and near toilets. However, tradition-al grab bars can look insti-

tutional and clash with a bathroom’s overall design.

Instead of settling for a look that doesn’t flatter your decor, versatile alternatives allow homeowners to opt for safety accessories that incorporate beauty as well as function. The American Standard Invisia Collection of bath and shower grab bar accessories are dis-guised as decorative flour-ishes on existing bathroom accessories such as the toilet paper holder, towel rack or wall-mounted soap dish. A

The shower becomes safer and more accessible with American Standard Invisia bathroom accessories. Pictured here are an accent ring around the

shower trim, a corner shelf and a soap dish, all discreetly integrating grab bars into their primary function.


•stylish,Page15

Senior Lifestyle14

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sleek, polished metal ring encircles and accents a tub or shower faucet handle while also functioning as a sturdy grab bar. Two mod-els of shower bench seats — corner and fold-down — provide a secure perch with sophisticated styling. All the Invisia products provide needed support in a style that is tasteful, mod-ern and enhancing to your bathroom setting.

For more hints to allow for gracefully aging in place, download the How-to-Buy Guide for Universal Design in Bathrooms.

• Fixtures — From high-er toilets that make rising easier and higher sinks that require less bending, to low step-over shower surrounds and walk-in bathtubs, a wide range of bathroom fixtures facilitate safety and ease of use in the bathroom. More manu-facturers are also paying attention to the aesthetic aspects of these very practi-cal products, creating looks that mesh well with a range of interior design themes, from classic to transitional to modern.

In yet another endorse-ment for getting on your feet and walking, research-ers said recently that peo-ple with mild to moderate Parkinson’s disease may improve their motor func-tion, mood, fatigue levels and more by taking regular aerobic walks.

“The results of our study suggest that walking may provide a safe and easily accessible way of improv-ing the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and improve quality of life,” the lead author of the study said.

Dr. Ergun Uc of the University of Iowa and the Veterans Affairs Medical

Center in Iowa City and colleagues published their findings in the journal Neurology.

The researchers tracked 49 people ages 50 to 80 who had mild to moderate Parkinson’s disease. They wore electronic heart and walking speed monitors, and were asked to keep

a diary of their exercise. Some walked in groups, others on their own. Their average walking speed was 2.9 mph.

Over six months, improvement came in aer-obic fitness, as it would for most people. But the researchers also reported improvements — outside

of those from any medi-cation — in motor func-tion, fatigue levels, mood, aspects of executive func-tion and quality of life.

The researchers conclud-ed that people with mild to moderate Parkinson’s dis-ease could benefit from fol-lowing the federal guide-lines recommending 150

minutes a week of mod-erate aerobic activity for people ages 18 to 65.

More work is needed, in part because this study did not include a control group, the researchers noted. But it did demon-strate that this group of people can safely take part in aerobic walking.

By MARY MACVEANLos Angeles Times (TNS)

Walking improves mood, eases fatigue in those with Parkinson’s disease

stylishFrom Page 14

Senior Lifestyle15


Are you prepared to take a 30-year vacation?(BPT) — Summer is vaca-

tion season. However, before the week or two of fun begins comes the hard part — planning and pack-ing.

There are so many things to consider depending on the type of experience a per-son wants to have and what they need to bring along.

Now picture preparing for a 30-year vacation. As life expectancy increases, that’s essentially what retire-ment could be for many Americans. Their “lug-gage” or financial strategy has to accommodate rou-tine expenses like food and shelter, health care costs, lifestyle needs and perhaps even a legacy for loved ones or favorite philanthropy.

Yet research shows that when it comes to retirement planning, many Americans are flying blind. According to Northwestern Mutual’s

2015 Planning & Progress Study, while not having sufficient savings to retire comfortably is a leading financial fear, more than a third of adults don’t even know how much income they need to retire.

The lack of confidence in financial preparedness may explain why Americans are increasingly delaying retirement involuntarily. The same study found that among those individuals expecting to work beyond the traditional retirement age of 65, six in 10 believe it will be from necessity rath-er than choice.

“Retirement should be synonymous with personal fulfillment — whether that means staying active pro-fessionally or enjoying a life of leisure,” said Rebekah Barsch, vice president of planning, Northwestern Mutual.

“In an age of ebbing social safety nets and rising costs, proactive financial planning is your ticket to having the flexibility to shape the retire-ment experience you’ve worked hard to enjoy.”

The good news is that it’s rarely too late to take control of your financial situation. Barsch suggested considering the following “retirement vacation check-list” to help assess whether your financial foundation can support your desired lifestyle through your life span:

• Determine your “retire-ment destination” — Like an actual vacation, what you need to take depends on where you’re going and how long you’re planning to stay. So, if your goal is to retire as early as possible and lead a life of leisure without working for sup-plemental income, you’ll likely need more resourc-es than if you choose to remain in the workforce as long as possible or opt for some form of employment during retirement.

• Confer with your “trav-el companion” — If you’re retiring with a spouse or partner, it’s essential to ensure your retirement life-style expectations and prior-ities are aligned. However, maintaining open and ongoing communication about financial matters may be harder than it sounds. In fact, Northwestern Mutual research shows that Americans prefer dis-cussing death and inti-macy over money matters. Overcoming this discom-fort, especially for decision-making around difficult topics like long-term care, is

vital as it could impact your significant other as well as your adult children.

• Consult an expert — While the Internet has empowered us to become a nation of DIYers, there are still some areas where pro-fessional guidance is valu-able. Just like a travel agent is a key resource for navi-gating more complex travel itineraries, a professional advisor can objectively look at your finances and goals, share insights on the merits of various risk and invest-ment solutions and devise a strategy to meet immediate and future needs.


Planning ahead for your retirement will make it more enjoyable.

Senior Lifestyle16

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Easy ways to boost your brain health and stay sharp(BPT) — When you think

about health and wellness, what first comes to mind? Most likely it’s along the lines of fitness, healthy eat-ing and doctor’s appoint-ments. But have you ever considered the importance of brain health as you age?

According to the National Institute on Aging, research shows that a complex interaction between your DNA, diet, physical activ-ity level, sleep quality and every other aspect of your environment affects your brain health and cognitive function. This means that your bad habits can trigger changes in your brain and contribute to the decline of your brain health.

Stay sharp as you age with these easy ways to boost your brain power:

• Eat brain food. While a good diet can improve your all-around health, certain foods keep your brain func-tioning optimally, accord-ing to the Alzheimer’s Association. Some of these top “brain foods” include wild salmon, nuts and seeds, avocados, blueber-ries, dark chocolate and whole grains. Your brain loves both omega-3 essen-tial fatty acids and anything with antioxidants.

• Exercise your brain. Your body isn’t the only thing that needs exercise. Puzzles, brain teasers and games help create new associations within your brain to keep it fresh. As an added exercise, try complet-ing everyday activities with your non-dominant hand, such as combing your hair and brushing your teeth.

• Continue to learn. The learning shouldn’t stop once you leave school. Continue to try new activi-ties and test your brain by reading, taking classes or learning a language. Keep your brain active by teach-ing it some new tricks.

• Take a well-rounded supplement. Your brain also requires a number of vitamins and minerals to function properly. For

example, the three B vita-mins (folic acid, B6 and B12) are all related to healthy brain function. Be sure you are getting enough of these essential vitamins and con-sider taking a supplement to boost your brain power even further. The ingredi-ents in Procera AVH pro-mote blood and oxygen flow to the brain, support key neurotransmitters and provide neuroprotection. This helps support brain health and cognitive func-tion. Maintaining brain health contributes to a well-balanced mind, body and spirit for an all-around healthier and more active lifestyle.

• Keep a sleep schedule. Not only is sleep funda-mental for regenerating your physical body, but it has restorative proper-ties for your brain as well. A good night’s sleep helps you to look at problems in a new light and improves

your ability to think cre-atively. If you’re having trouble getting at least six hours of sleep per night, try ditching the technol-ogy before bed. Too much screen time before you rest your eyes reduces the qual-ity of your sleep.

• Maintain your social

calendar. Humans are social creatures who need a variety of brain stimu-lation to maintain a sharp mind, including social activity. This becomes espe-cially relevant as you age and your neurological pro-cesses start to slow down. Socially active older adults

are less likely to develop both cognitive and physical limitations. Try a weekly card game with friends or volunteer for a local organi-zation to continue to get out and meet new people.

For more information on brain health, visit http://www.procerahealth.com.

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Five exotic summer vacations that are a steal due to the strong dollar

(BPT) — Exotic locations like Bali, Rome and Sydney might be at the top of your bucket list, but this year experts say they should also be at the top of your sum-mer vacation list. Today’s unusually strong dollar is allowing you to get a lot more for your money when you travel abroad. Travel experts say this year is one of the best times in mod-

ern history for Americans to explore the world and visit distant dream destinations.

“The U.S. has emerged from the financial crisis of 2008 with the dollar at near record highs relative to a number of internation-al currencies,” said Travis Katz, CEO and co-founder of Gogobot, a travel site that helps you find places to stay, eat and play that

are perfect for you. “For American travelers, this means international travel is cheaper this year than it has been in decades. On Gogobot, we are seeing hotel prices in the world’s most expensive destina-tions, like Sydney and Paris, running well below their domestic counterparts here in the States.”

Here are five amazing vacation destinations that are attractively priced right now given the strong dol-lar:

• Bali — Bali is home to beautiful beaches and unique spots like the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary. Seeing these amazing loca-

tions has never been more affordable. Island lovers can now save 50 to 60 per-cent over last year’s hotel prices in Bali. As an exam-ple, last year the Bali Wood Property at Aston Kuta Residence was going for $206 per night and it was practically a steal at just $82 per night in May.

• Paris — One of the most expensive cities in the world isn’t as steep as it used to be. For example, the four star Hotel Astra Opera - Astotel, which went for $249 last year, is cur-rently listed at $149. You can even book luxury hotels in Paris for up to 65 percent less per night than last year.

The famous L’Hotel Paris, which travelers last sum-mer booked for $832 per night, can now be booked for just $298. With places like the Louvre Museum and the Jardin des Tuileries in its back pocket, it should come as no surprise that Paris ranks highly among art and design lovers. The current low hotel room rates in Paris mean you can afford to wine and dine yourself at luxury restau-rant hot spots like L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon during your stay.

• Rome — A popular destination for foodies and home to the Vatican, Rome’s appeal to tourists is universal. Staying in the city is now more affordable than ever. Rome’s current hotel room rates are up to 66 percent lower than last year’s prices. These savings mean you can extend your vacation and get even more scoops of gelato in Rome’s stunning Centro Storico neighborhood.

• Spain — The dollar’s strength translates into great deals across Spain, the perfect destination for people who love to experi-ence local culture. Take in

This is the year for those who have had dreams of traveling to exotic plac-es such as Bali, Spain or Paris. Hotel

accommodations are much cheaper because of the strong dollar in many overseas destinations.


•exotic,Page19

Senior Lifestyle18

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all the sites, like La Sagrada Familia and Park Guell, while saving on hotels in Barcelona. You can also travel south to the munici-pality of Marbella, home to some of the most serene beaches in the world. You can find amazing deals with some properties in Marbella going for as much as 41 percent less than they cost just one year ago.

• Sydney — Australia is a dream destination for adventurers. You can take three different climbs up to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge for breath-taking views of the city and the Blue Mountains make for an amazing day trip. Normally Sydney’s sky-high costs make it a tough sell for most Americans, but today’s exchange rates mean this summer is a great time to head

down under. Dozens of four star hotels, includ-ing the Menzies Sydney, Castlereagh Boutique Hotel and Mercure Sydney are now going for less than $120 per night. Even five star hotels, like the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney, that were going for $300 per night last sum-mer are now going for $185 per night which represents a 38 percent savings.

While travel deals are red hot, it still pays to shop around for the best deals. Gogobot has price compar-ison tools that show you the best deals across a num-ber of different sites includ-ing Expedia, Priceline and Booking.com. Now is the perfect time to visit inter-national destinations you’ve always dreamed of. Get inspired and find more perfect places to stay, eat and play around the world, and in your own backyard, on Gogobot’s app.

exoticFrom Page 18

Prostate cancer treatment options: When less is more(BPT) — A prostate can-

cer diagnosis can be shock-ing and scary, but there are ways to help ease anxiety and uncertainty around treatment options. A patient and his wife, a doctor and a national patient advocacy leader share some of the facts and their stories.

“When I heard I had prostate cancer I was con-cerned,” said Dan Woska, a prostate cancer survivor from Oklahoma City, Okla. “I had thoughts about what this means for my wife and kids. I was also thinking ‘What are my options?’ and ‘What can be done?’ and the only person I really wanted to talk to about that was my wife, Debbie.”

“So he did,” she said. “He talked to me about options and how he felt about them. It was very important that I was a partner in all of his decision making because it entails our lives.”

Dan and Debbie are one of many couples that had to have this difficult conversa-tion.

In fact, in the United

States, one in six men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer, according to Men’s Health Network, but not all prostate cancers carry the same level of risk.

“In the case of high-risk cancer, immediate treat-ment like surgery can be life-saving,” said Dr. Uchio, director of urologic oncol-ogy at the University of California, Irvine. “The reality, however, is that more than half of men diag-nosed with prostate cancer have low-risk disease that can be managed with active surveillance, a program of regular and close monitor-ing of the cancer. If you have these less-aggressive cancers, active surveillance provides an opportunity to delay or avoid treatments such as surgery or radia-tion.”

Your Prostate Your Decision was created in response to a national survey conducted by Kelton Research and sup-ported by Men’s Health Network (MHN), Prostate Health Education Network

(PHEN), ZERO - The End of Prostate Cancer and Genomic Health. The cam-paign website and video featuring baseball Hall-of-Famer and prostate cancer survivor Joe Torre educates men and their loved ones that every man is different and every cancer is unique. Resources patients need to have a more productive discussion with their doc-tor are available at www.YourProstateYourDecision.com.

According to the survey there are misconceptions about prostate cancer lead-ing men to likely choose surgery before getting all the facts about their cancer.

Few men consider active surveillance as a treatment option. In fact, only 10 per-cent of men ages 50 and older and 27 percent of their female caregivers correctly link active surveillance to prostate cancer instead of other diseases.

The survey also showed an alarming widespread misconception regarding prostate cancer risk and

the need for immediate treatment. More than half of men over the age of 50 surveyed believe it is life-threatening and best treated immediately.

“These statistics high-light a significant potential for prostate cancer over-treatment,” said Thomas Farrington, founder and president of PHEN.

Senior Lifestyle19

Dr. Foy is accepting new child and adolescent

patients

Serving Northwest Ohio Counties since 1960

DefianceWilliamsHenryFulton

www.maumeevalleyguidancecenter.org

Offering… Counseling Services-

Individual-Marriage-Group-Family Psychiatric Services-

Adults & Children Medication Management Services

Case Management Services-

Adults & Youth Clubhouse Program

Alcohol & Drug Addiction Services

Senior Prevention Services

Veterans Supportive Services

Integrated Health Care

Enhancing the quality oflife for those we serve

211 Biede AvenueDefiance, OH 43512800-569-3980

Funded in part by: Four Co ADAMhs Board and United Way

Offering to:Older Adults

(60 years and older)

Healthy IDEAS

- Identify and address depression- Reduce symptoms of depression- Decrease physcial pain- Improve ability to recognize and self-treat symptoms- Improve well-being through achievement of personal goals- Promotes involvement in meaningful activities

Maumee Valley Guidance Center800-569-3980

“Enhancing The Quality of Life for Those We Serve”

Serving: Defiance, Fulton, Henry, Williams countieswww.maumeevalleyguidancecenter.org

Funded in part by: Four Co. ADAMhs Board & United Way

Talking about your own funeral may be uncomfortable for you. But if you don’t talk about it now, your family will have to take care of it...alone. Isn’t it good to know you can arrange your funeral ahead of time. When the time comes, a single call to our funeral home should be all that’s needed.

“Does your family know how you really feel about your funeral...?”

Dan Schaffer

Schaffer fUNeraL hOMe, INc.529 Jefferson Ave. - Defiance, Ohio 43512

Phone 419-784-2441


Senior Lifestyle20

Curious About Our Campus?

Lutheran Home at Napoleon1036 S. Perry Street, Napoleon, Ohio 43545

419-592-1688 • www.LHSOH.orgOpen to all faiths • Chaplain & chapel on site

Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance accepted.

Lutheran Home at Napoleon is a ministry of Lutheran Homes Society.

Come see Lutheran Home at Napoleon

Open HOuSe First Thursday of Every Month at 4 p.m. Starting at Bavarian Village Condo #39

Our spacious two-bedroom condominiums offer privacy and independence, with added services and amenities.

Bavarian Village Independent Living

Alpine Village Assisted Living

Lutheran nursing & Rehabilitation Center

Alpine Village offers spacious studio and one-bedroom apartments for older adults who can still manage many of thier activities, but at times need a gentle helping hand.

You can count on the Lutheran Home at Napoleon’s short- and long-term care services when you need them most.

•No property taxes •Maintenance-free •Attached garage •Emergency call system •Appliances included •Private patio

•Low daily rate •24-hour nursing staff •Delicious menu options •Housekeeping & laundry •Therapy services •Emergency call system

•Low daily rate •Large private rehab suites •Inpatient & outpatient therapy •Wound care, wound vac, IV therapy •Rehabilitation services: neurological, respiratory, stroke and cardiac care•Respite stays available

“Many thanks to everyone at the Lutheran Home for the personalized attention they have given our mother for more than six years. Your culture of caring was never more apparent than this past week when our 93-year-old mother faced – and overcame – end-of-life issues. The nursing staff and STNAs not only went above and beyond in their care for our mother, but recognized how difficult it was for us to see our mother’s decline and took good care of us, too.

“Mom regularly heard the gentle voices and felt the compassionate hands of her caregivers and, as each shift ended, they took time to stop and say a few special words to her. When our out-of-town siblings called for updates, their questions were promptly answered with kindness and completeness. Those of us who kept a vigil at the home experienced a remarkable level of patience and support.

“Our mother’s return to health is an answer to prayers and a testament to the loving care she received... ”

Sue Porter, Judy Damman and Linda Brelsford, daughters of resident Julia Mangas

































































































































































Come SeeLutheran Home at Napoleon


senior lifestyle 2015

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