Senior Connection - Managing Diabetes & Other Chronic Ailments

ConnectionMarch 27th2011

Other

Managing Diabetes Chronic Ailments

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TekonshaI-69 Exit 23 • 100 US 27 S.

888-482-1233

Nottawa60300 Hwy M-66800-352-9166

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LJ-01000787042

Senior Connection | March 27, 2011

LJ-0100075779

Promoting health,independence andchoice for olderadults, individuals

with disabilities, andcaregivers.

200 W. Michigan Ave.Battle Creek, MI 49017

269-966-2450800-626-6719

www.region3b.org

SERVING BARRY AND CALHOUN COUNTIES

We are a non-profit agency committed to providinginformation, assistance, and resources to createchoices for independence. Older adults want toremain in their homes for as long as possible. Wecan help! We also help caregivers access servicesto help them be more effective.

Have questions, not sure where tostart? Call our trained specialists today.

269-441-0973

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Mission StatementCreating a Legacy by Exceeding the Needs and Expectations ofThose We Serve, While Embracing The Laurel Way.

Short-Term Nursing and RehabilitationThe Laurels of Coldwater provides a complete range of services forpatients that are unable to return home after a hospitalization

The Laurels of Coldwater cares for individuals with a wide variety ofillnesses. Short-term stay programs offer comprehensive care in thefollowing areas

• Orthopedic Rehabilitation Program•Neuro Rehabilitation Program• IV Therapy• Cardiac Recovery Program• Infection Resolution Program

• Wound Healing & WoundPrevention Program

• Respiratory Program• Digestive Diseases Program• Alzheimer’s Skilled Services Program

90 N Michigan Avenue, Coldwater,MI 49036 | www.laurelsofcoldwater.com(517) 279·9808

LJ-0100079382

Okay,I’mkindaofadatageek.Ilikenumbers–Ihavenocluehowtomakethemdotheirmagic,but Iadmireandappreciate those folks thatdoand thenshare themwithus.Hence,a recentresearchproject fromtheEmergingRiskFactorsCollaboration, basedatCambridgeUniversity,caughtmyattention.Thenumberswerealarming

– adults with Type 2Diabetes who did

nothaveaknownvasculardisease(like PAD and

others thatincrease

y o u rr i s k

o f

stroke)d i e d

a naverageof six

years earlier thanthose who did not

havethedisease.TheERFCstudyincludedmore than820,000peopleandof

those,themedianormiddlerangeforearlydeathwasaboutthirteenyears!Thirteenyearspeople! IfyouarecuriouswhyIgotsogeekedaboutthegeekstudy–Lastyear,Ihadoneofthose“getittogether”visitswithmyphysician,Dr.RoseLovioatDayOne.ApparentlyIhadbeenplayingalittleroulettewithmyeatingandexercisehabitsandasa result,mybloodsugarhadcrept into that“pre-diabetic” range thatmakesdoctorsputontheirserious toneofvoice.ButDr.Lovio,beingthepositive,“bootsstraps”encourager thatsheis,merelyexplainedwhatthenumbermeantandthenaskedmepointblankwhatIwasgoingtodoabout this“situation” I’dallowedmyself togetinto.Ofcourse,Dr.Lovioknewthateventheideaofmanaginga chronicdisease,especiallyonethatIworkedmyselfintobymyownbadchoices,

wouldnotbeveryappealingtomesoshepulledupachairandtogetherwesetoutonaplantogetthenumbersundercontrol.ShealsoknewI’ddotheresearchandprobablyscaremyselfsenselesswithoutthelectureIprobablydeservedfromher. Aftertheinitialshockandafewdaysofberatingmyself,Ididgetbusyonreversingthetrendandmypoorperformanceonmyannualphysical–whichbecauseofmy“situation”hadnowturnedintoaquarterlyphysical.Italsohelpedthelightbulbgooffonthetruecostofachronicdisease–bothintermsofyearsofmylifeandimpactonmypocketbook.First,quarterlydoctorvisits?Okay,Ihaveinsuranceso I’mnotwhining toobadly,butstill that’sanadditional$90ayearassumingImanagetostayhealthy inbetween.That’s thecostofacoupleofticketstoaTigersgameafterall!Then,thoseteststripsandpokersandotherparaphernaliatokeeptrackofmynumbersonwhatseemedlikeanhourlybasis.Holystickershock,Batman!Thatgymmembershipstartedtolooklikeareallygooddeal

afterpricingoutDiabeticsuppliesforayear!

But I must admit, some of the studies thatpointedouttherealcostofchronicdisease, likethe one I referenced above–that’swhat really got my attentionandgotmemoving in the rightdirection.Think about it forjustaminute:Six-13yearslesstimewithyourspouseorclose friendsor towatchyourgrandchildren grow? Sorry, that’s not for me. Alsoconsiderhowmuchhigheryour risk is forotherdiseasesthatcannotonlyshortenyourlifebutalsosignificantlyreducethequalityofyourlifelikeheartdisease,stroke,kidneydisease,amputationandblindness.Sorry,notinterestedinthoseeither. SufficeittoIdidmanagetogetmyacttogether.WithinsixmonthsIhadreducedmybloodsugartoasafenumberandlost25pounds.I’mstillworkingonanother30pounds,butIgota“twothumbsup”fromDr.Lovioatmylastvisitandwasrewardedwithanappointmentthatwassixmonthsout,notthreemonths. Themoralofthestoryformehasbeenthatthecost is toohightoallowmyself toslackoffandgetlazyaboutmyhealth.Ourowneffortsmaynotpreventalloccurrenceofchronicdisease,butmanyoftheleadingcausesofdeathlikeheartdisease,stroke,diabetes,andsomecancersare relatedtolife-styleandongoinglifechoices.Whataboutyou?Whatareyouwillingtopayforalonger,moreproductivelife?

Chronic Disease

The Cost is Too High- Karla Fales, CEO Region 3B Area Agency on Aging

part 1

710 North Avenue269-969-6251www.bcortho.com

Michael L. Bills, PA-C

Andrè Z. Oulai, MD

Bart R. Keller, PA-C

Michael J. Langworthy, MD

William J. Comai, DO

John C. Morgan, MD

LJ-0100075870

We're here to help every step of the way

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When asked, most olderadults say that they want

to live in their own commu-nity as long as possible. Forthose with chronic conditionsand limited resources, thiscan be a challenge.

CentraCare is part ofNational PACE (Program ofAll In-clusive Care for theElderly) and serves to meet

the health care needs of frailadults 55 or older living inCalhoun County. Servicesare coordinated by theCentraCare team to:

• Ensure safety in the home• Promote wellness• Focus on quality medical care• Provide an opportunity for

socialization• Support caregivers

CentraCare, located inBurnham Brook CommunityCenter in Battle Creek, iscommitted to supportingolder adults to remain in thecommunity and to enhancetheir quality of life.

To find out if CentraCare isright for you or someone youlove, call us at 269-441-9300or 877-284-4071 toll free.

200 W. Michigan Ave., Ste. 103 | Battle Creek, MI 49017269-441-9300 | 877-284-4071 toll free | www.mycentracare.com

COMPREHENSIVE COMMUNITY-BASED OLDER ADULT SERVICES

LJ-0100079380LJ-0100075850

Mom isn’t who she wasShe continually rep

Alzheimer’s & Dementiahave taken

my physical & mental health. When I needed your help...my peace-of-mind. you were there.

Come TourBattle Creek’s Finest14316 Helmer Road SouthBattle Creek, MI 49015(269) 969-2500

www.reflectionsmemorycare.comGanton Senior Communities LLC

my from me.Mother

eats things

Assisted Living Memory Care

When I needed your help...you were there.

She continually repeats things

Itdoesn’ttakealongconversationwithanolderadulttoknowwhattheirgoalsarefortheirlong-termcare–theywanttoremainathomeforaslongaspossible.Butastheircareneedsincrease,especiallyduetotheon-setofchronicdisease,questionsabouthowtoaccomplish that goal can arise. Concernsaboutsafety,howtomanagemorecomplexhealthcareneeds,andhowtopayforlong-term care options can leave some seniorswonderingwheretoturn. TheP.A.C.EprogramatCentraCarebeganalittleoverayearagoinsidetheBurnham

Brook Community Center. We are excitedabout the new options that this programprovidestoourseniors,especiallythosewhoarelow-incomeandneedhelptoremainathome. What is P.A.C.E. you ask? It stands fora Program of All-inclusive Care for theElderly.CentraCare is thenon-profit entitythat operates the program. The program’sgoal matches that of most of our seniors- tokeepseniors intheirhomesandinthecommunityforaslongaspossible.P.A.C.E.isunique,however,inthatitoffersparticipants

access to an integrated, multi-disciplinary teamthatwillworkwiththemtohelpthemachievetheirgoalof longer-termindependence. It isalsouniquein that the program serves as the medical homefor their participants.All needed medical servicesareeitherdeliveredorcoordinatedbyCentraCare’smulti-disciplinary team and includes preventative,rehabilitative,curativeandsupportiveservicesatitsdaycenterandinclinic,aswellasotherhome-basedservices such as homemaking that are providingin participant’s homes and extends to care in thehospitaloranursinghomeifneeded.Servicesofferedinclude transportation, on-site physician, nursingcare,socialservices,physicaltherapy,occupationaltherapy, recreational therapy, caregiver education,contractedprovidersinallspecialties,nutrition,andmuchmore. P.A.C.E helps insure seniors can stay at homelonger byworking with themand their families toachievethegreatestlevelofhealthpossibleforaslongaspossible–seekingtoimprovethequalityoflifeforitsclientsandtheirfamilies.

P.A.C.E does have specific eligibility criteria which include: ■ Age55orolder■ Requirecarethatwouldotherwisequalify

themforadmissionintoanursinghome■ Abletolivesafelyinthecommunitywith

support■ LiveinCalhounCounty

P.A.C.E is meeting an important need in ourcommunityandprovidesyetanotherqualityandsafe choice for seniorsand their families. Is itrightforyouoryourlovedone?LetushelpyoufindoutbyschedulingavisittoourcenterlocatedatBurnhamBrookCommunityCenter. You can set up an appointment MondaythroughFridaybycallingusat(269)441-9300orvisitourwebsitewww.mycentracare.com.

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Expanding Your OptionsFor Remaining at Home- Rod Auton, Executive Director Region 3B Area Agency on Aging

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Public Enemy #1?- Linda Frost, RN, Care Management Director Region 3B Area Agency on Aging

It could be your mom,

it could be your dad,

it could be someone

you love - the best

friend you ever had.

Alzheimer’s doesn’t discriminate!

CALL TODAY!517-543-8101

RESIDENCY * RESPITE * ADULT DAY CARE

511 E. Shepherd St., CharlotteJust West of I-69, Exit 60www.SensationsMemoryCare.comLJ-0100078943

LJ-0100078954

BATTLE CREEK’S FIRST...EST. 1866 BATTLE CREEK’S FIRST...EST. 1866

2838 Capital Ave., S.W. Battle Creek, Michigan 49015-4016205 N. Elizabeth St., Bellevue, Michigan 49021

(269) 979-3838 www.shawfuneralhome.comThe Order of theGolden Rule

MemberMemberT. R. SHAW JR. CHUCK STALLARD

Serving Our Community ForMore Than A Century

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Thecrisisisclear:Chronicdiseasesarecrushinghealthcare.Muchof the recentdebatearoundhealthcareandhealthcarereformfocusonthefactthatasthepopulationisagingweneedtodoabetterjobofmanagingchronicdiseasesthat impactourseniors. Chronic conditions such as diabetes, heartdisease,lungdiseaseandstroketakeaheavytollonone’shealth,buttheyalsocostastaggeringamountofmoney.AcostthatneitheryounorIasindividuals

norournation’sMedicareprogramcanafford. Unfortunately, the trends in termsof chronicdiseasearegoinginthewrongdirection.Wearen’tdoingenough individuallyor collectively togetheadedinamorepositivedirection.ConsiderthefollowingfromtheCentersforDiseaseControlandPrevention:■ Obesityincreasestheriskofdevelopingconditions

suchasheartdisease.Ratesofobesityhavemorethandoubledinrecentyears.

■ Theaveragecostofhealthcareforsomeonewithoneormorechronicdiseaseisfivetimesgreaterthansomeonewithoutanychronicdisease.

■ Ofevery$4spentonhealthcare,$3 relates tochronicdisease–roughly$8,000perpersoninAmericawithachroniccondition.

What is even more alarming though is thehumancost–this isalwayswhatmakesmethemosttroubled.Sevenoutofevery10deathscanbeattributedtoachronic,andinmanycasespreventable,disease.Chronicdiseasesarealsotheleadingcauses

ofdisabilityanddeathintheUnitedStates. Wesee the impactofchronicdiseasewithinourprogramseverydayasweenrollandserveolderadultswho requireassistance to remainathome.Manyofourconsumershavedifficultywithactivitiesofdailylivinglikebathing,toileting,dressing,walking,andcookingbecauseof theonset and previously poor management ofa chronicdisease. TheCDC reports that25%ofpeoplewithchronicdiseaseshavephysical

limitationswhich theywouldnotnormallyhaveduetotheirconditions.Theeffectsofthesechronicconditionsonqualityoflifearesometimesreallyhardtowitness–folkslivingwithextendedpainandsufferingandinsomecaseslosingtheirabilitytoremainathome. We know that chronic diseases costs thehealthcaresystembillionsofdollarseachyear–but there isahumancostaswell.This is thetrend thatwe’d like tosee impacted.TheAreaAgencyonAging’smissionistopromotehealth,independence,andchoice–chronicdisease isourenemyinthismission,itfightsagainstusasourwaitlistsandcostofservicesrise.Don’tgetmewrong–we loveourworkandwe loveourparticipants.Wejustgothroughthesamespanofemotionsastheydowhenweconsiderwhatcouldhavebeenintermsofqualityoflifeandlongevity.WewantfolkstoNOTneedusforaverylongperiodoftime.


LJ-0100078693

APRIL Summer Hours (starts 4/1) 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.2................................................................ 43rd Taste of Turkeyville USA9.............................................................................................. Plow Days16........................................................................Sportsman Flea Market21........................................Dinner Theatre: Married Alive (thru June 18)24................................................................... Easter Dinner, Family Style

(11 a.m. - 5 p.m. reservations Required)30............................................................Flea Market and Antique Show

MAY1..............................................................Flea Market and Antique Show7............................................................................ Community Yard Sale8..........................................................................................Mother’s Day14, 15.....................................................................Arts and Crafts Show28, 29, 30................................................Flea Market and Antique Show

18935 15 1/2 Mile Road, Marshall, MI 49068

800-228-4315www.turkeyville.com

2011 - A NEW SEASON OF FUN!

FEBRUARY 24 thru APRIL 16Harmony Valley Church has fallen

on difficult financial times, but the

congregation has come together with

spirit and drive. Musical highlights include

Old Time Religion, Amazing Grace, and

many more

APRIL 21 thru JUNE 18A funny and touching new musical that

looks in on two married couples and

focuses on the trials, joys, triumphs and

defeats that are found in contemporary

marriage. Our cast of four actors and one

piano will entertain and delight!

3566 Capital Ave. SW • 1 Mile South of I-94 • (269) 979-6455WWW.BATTLECREEKHEARINGAIDS.COM

Improve your hearing today!

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Initial Consultation!(269) 979-6455. With this ad.

Callnow! Free

Dennis Trantum &Paja DickensonAudiologists, MACCC-A

• NO GIMMICKS

• We have the most competitive prices

in the area - Financing available!

• 60 day trial

• Walk In Services always welcome

Our friendly knowledgeable staff will help you makean informed decision on your hearing care needs!

Mon-Fri 9am-5pm &Saturday 9:30am-Noon

OVER 23 YEARS, SERVING OUR COMMUNITY!

Battle Creek

Do

One Thing- Luann Sommers, Planning Manager Region 3B Area Agency on Aging

Weallprobablyknow

someone with achronicdisease–your

spousehasdiabetes,yourbrotherhasheartdisease,yourecentlybeatcancer,yoursonhasasthma.You’veseenthearticlesinthemediaandinthispublicationaboutthecostofchronicdiseases.Youprobablyhaveheardthat75%of theUnitedStates’$2 trillionspendingonpublicandprivatehealthcarewent towardtreatmentofchronicdisease. Themessagewedon’thearasoften is thatmost chronic diseases are incurable, oftenpreventable,and frequentlymanageable.Herearethekeys:Identifythediseaseearly,improveyourdiet,committothatexerciseprogram,andfollowyourdoctor’sorders. Itreallyisthatsimple–okaynotsimple,butdoableespeciallyifyouconsiderthealternative–lossofindependenceandyourabilitytocareforyourselffollowingastroke;alegamputated

orlossofeyesightduetodiabetes;limitationsonyourabilitytotravel,playwithyourgrandkidsorenjoyeverydayactivitiesbecauseofpulmonaryarterydiseaseorheartdisease. Iknow,Iknow–you’vehearditbefore.Iamsaying it tomyselfasmuchas toyou.But I’mhopingbysayingitjustonemoretimethattodaymightbethedayyouturnthatcorner.Soletmesayitonemoretime.Thinkalittleharderaboutyourfoodchoicestodayandeveryday.Findanactivitythatyouenjoyandstickwith it–walkthatdog,walkthatblock,walkthosestairs.Workwithyourdoctortoknowyourriskfactorsandyournumbers–thendevelopaplantogetthoseundercontrolthatareedgingupward. Awhilebacktherewasanadseriesthattalkedaboutdoingonethingandthendoingitagainthenextday.Iguessthat’sgoodadviceforallofus.Canyoudoonethingtodayandthenonethingeachofthenext364days?Let’stryittogetherandseewhatimpactitcanmakeonourhealth–todayandintothefuture.

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I lostmy job in2009and Iwas struggling to make myhousepaymentsand keepmyhouse up. I applied for SocialSecurityandstarteddrawingmySocialSecurityat62.Oneday Ithought,“WhyamIgoingthroughall of the stressofmaintainingahouse?”Ihadallofthemaintenancetodoandfixingthingsthatneededrepair. I hated thesnowbecauseof shoveling.Summertime meant mowing. Both of theseactivitiesmademybackhurt. Itwasexpensivepayingsomeone todo theupkeepofmyhomethatIcouldn’tdo.WhenIlivedatmyhouseIcamehomeanddidnothingmanynights.Iwaslonelyinmyhouse.SoImadethedecisiontosellmyhouse.

I went lookingin Bat tle Creek forapar tments and Ionly looked at seniorapartments. I wantedto be in a buildingwithpeoplemyage.I viewed all of thesenior apartmentsintownandwhenIwenttoWestbrook

(located at the oldCommunityHospital)Iknewitwastheone.

Theapartmentswerehugecomparedtotheotherseniorhousingbuildings in thecommunity; theapartmentIchoseis1103squarefeet.Theyhavedishwashers, garbage disposals and garbagepickupthreetimesaweekatyourdooraswellasasecuritydoor.WhenImovedinitwasfreshlypainted,newlycarpeted;itlookedbrandnew.The

apartmenthasbigwindowsanditissobrightandwarmfeeling.Westbroookisveryreasonablesoyoudonotpayanarmandalegforit. WhileIwassellingmyhouse,Ikeptcomingandlookingat theapartments (theyhavedifferentlayouts)soIcouldfindtheonethatfitwhatIwaslookingfor.Igottoknoweveryonewhoworkedin theofficeandthemaintenanceman.Weallbecamelikefamily.Ididthisbecause,totellyouthetruth,IwassoafraidthatitwouldbefullwhenIcouldfinallymovein.ThedaycamewhenIsoldmyhouse(twoyearslater). Iwasoverjoyed.Nomoreworriesaboutmyhouse.Iwasmorethanreadytomove.Ihadnot lived inanapartment for forty yearsbut Iwaslookingforwardtolessstressandworries.ImovedeverythingintomyapartmentandIfellinlovewithWestbrook. I have livedatWestbrook for eightmonthsandeverytimeIwalkthroughthedoorIfeellike

I havemoved intoabrandnewhouse. I havemetandmadefriendswithalotofpeople,IplaybingoonMondaysand it only costsme$1.50and Igetprizes likeKleenex,cleaningsuppliesandotherusefulthings.Thereisapotluckeverymonth,gamenightonTuesdaysandFridays,andabirthdaypartyonceamonth.LunchisMondaythroughFridayfor$1.50andservedbyCommunityAction.Whenyouarelonely,youcanjustgodowntothelobbyandfindsomeonetotalkwith. Mygrandson,Josh(8yearsold)justsaidtomelastweekthathelikedmyapartmentbetterthanmyhouse.Iaskedhimwhyandhesaid.“Grandma,youaremoreactive,youhavenewfriendsandyouaresmilingallofthetime.”Ifyouwouldliketoseeahappysenior,comeandseemeat501atWestbrookandIcanshowyouwhyIamsohappy.Whenyoucometovisit,tellthemJeansentyou!

Why I Sold My House &

Moved into a Senior Apartment- Jean Major

Honoring the achievements of your loved ones…are the cornerstones of healing after a loss.

© 2011

223 N. Bedford Rd. • Battle Creek • 269.965.5145www.bachmanhebble.com

LJ-0100078959

Honoring the life of yourloved one means you value therelationship you shared.We look forward to helping youdecide how to celebrate that bond.Together we can create afitting tribute.

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964-HEAT(4328)

Fast, dependable service

ANY SERVICE* Not valid with any other offer

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MagnumCareof Hastings

LONG TERM SKILLED NURSING FACILITY& REHAB CENTER

MagnumCare of Hastings is here to meet all your health care needs.Personalized Care Plans developed for specific rehab needs:

• Cardiac • Diabetes • Chronic Disease • Orthopedic • CVA/StrokeOffering Short Term & Long Term Care

• Respite Care • Rehab • Hospice CareMagnumCare of Hastings, 240 East North St.

Hastings, MI 49058 269.945.9564LJ-0100072367

1-800-968-8806www.greatlakesboneandjoint.com

212 Winston Drive, Marshall, MI 490682 Heritage Oak Lane, Battle Creek, MI 49015

Great Lakes Bone & Joint Center

The Shortest Distance Between youand your Active Lifestyle.

Let’s face it. Being active is what makes it worth living. When you’residelined by injury or illness, your quality of life suffers. Fortunately, youdon’t have to take things lying down. Great Lakes Bone & Joint Centerprovides a comprehensive continuum of orthopaedic services designedto get you back quickly and completely to pain free, active living.

Great Lake Bone & Joint CenterExcellence in Orthopaedics

The Landscape is changing- Sandra Block, Gannett Media

Nursing Home Insurance

KathyKozakiewicz,59,decidedtobuy long-termcare insuranceafterherfather-in-lawwasdiagnosedwithAlzheimer’sandwaited18monthsuntilspaceopenedatalocalVeteransAffairsnursinghome,duringwhichtimetheywereresponsible forhiscare.Kozakiewiczandherhusbandwere determined to spare theirchildrenfromthatexperience. But now, the Kozakiewiczesfear their insurancecouldbecomeunaffordable.JohnHancock,whichhasacontractwiththeU.S.OfficeofPersonnelManagement(OPM)toprovidelong-termcareinsuranceforfederalemployees, recentlyaskedstateregulatorsforanaveragerateincreaseof40percentonmostofitsnon-federallong-termcareinsurancepolicies.“Thismakesmeworrywhenthe5yeardealthatOPMstruckwiththemhas tobe renegotiated, that

our rateswill skyrocketaswell,”Kozakiewiczsays.

Millionsofagingbabyboomersfaceasimilarconcern.Long-termcareinsuranceissupposedtoprotectseniorsandtheir familiesfromthesoaringcostsofnursinghomeandhome-basedhealthcare. Increaseduse of long-term care insurancewouldalso reduce theburdenonMedicaid, which accounts for 43percentofthecostofnursinghomecare,accordingtotheKaiserFamilyFoundation. But thesamefactors thathavehighlightedtheneedfor long-termcare insurance— a rapidly agingpopulation, lengthening longevityand unpredictable health carecosts—have made it increasinglyunprofitable for insurers. Some,

suchasJohnHancock,Genworthand Bankers Life and Casualty,haveaskedstateregulatorsforrateincreases of 30 percent or more.Othershaveleftthebusiness.Earlierthisyear,MetLifeannounceditwillstopsellinglong-termcareinsurance.Thecompanysaid itwill continueto provide coverage to existingpolicyholders. Inadditiontohealthcarehyper-inflation, insurancecompaniesarestrugglingwithrecord lowinterestrates, which have dragged downinvestment returns “Sustainedlowinterest ratesare to the long-termcare insurance industrywhat$4-a-gallon gas was to the SUVmarket,”saysJesseSlome,executivedirectoroftheAmericanAssociationfor Long-Term Care Insurance, aprofessionalorganizationforagentswhoselllong-termcarepolicies.

■ Opt For Time-Limited Benefits The biggest rate increases have been for older policies that provided no cap on the number of years they’d cover. Consumers can lower premiums by up to 39% a year by buying a policy that limits coverage to 3 years, he says.

■ Include A Waiting PeriodLike a higher deductible on your car insurance, a 90-day waiting period will lower your premiums. Most people can rely on family and friends to help out until their coverage kicks in, he says. Also, if you require long-term care because of a stroke, broken hip or similar affliction, Medicare will typically cover you for the first 20 days.

■ Research The History Of Rate IncreasesAsk insurers: When was your last rate increase, and how many increases have you had in the last 10 years? You can also get that information from your state’s department of insurance. Your state insurance department can also tell you if there have been a lot of complaints about them. To find your state’s insurance department, go to www.naic.org.

■ Stick With Established Companies You want an insurer that will be around at least as long as you will. Also, buy from companies that sell other insurance

products, such as annuities and life insurance. Those companies are better able to withstand short-term losses in their long-term care policies, he says.

■ Do The Research Long-term care insurance is extraordinarily complicated. There are no standard options you can compare on the Internet. Policies may cover nursing home care, assisted living, home care or a combination of services. Some will pay a family member to care for you; others require you to hire a certified health professional. Some policies will pay you a lump sum to use however you want, once you’re eligible for coverage.

■ Get Help Policies also have different “triggers” that must transpire before your coverage kicks in. Generally, insurers require that you need assistance with at least two “activities of daily living (ADLs),” such as bathing, eating or walking. Unscrupulous insurers sometimes exploit ambiguity over ADLs to deny claims.Consult with an insurance agent or broker who specializes in long-term care insurance and can help you identify a policy that will fit your income and needs. Even then, you may want to have an attorney review your policy before you sign up.

WAYS TO PRUNE YOUR PREMIUMS

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Kellogg Community CollegeRegional ManufacturingTechnology Center405 Hill Brady Road, Battle Creek, MI 49037PHONE �� E-MAIL [email protected]

LJ-0100078966

ILRINSTITUTE FOR LEARNING IN RETIREMENT

Fun Daytime Classes

Short Educational Trips

Meet New People

INSTITUTE FOR LEARNING IN RETIREMENTILR

14316 Helmer Road SouthBattle Creek, MI 49015

www.ReflectionsMemoryCare.com

269-969-2500Owned and operated by GantonSenior Communities, L.L.C.

14420 Helmer Road SouthBattle Creek, MI 49015www.HeritageAssisted.com

269-969-4000Look forus on

Facebook!Awarded#1

Caregiver Awardfor the state of Michigan

(M.C.A.L.)

CHRONIC DISEASE SELF-MANAGEMENT WORkSHOPS TheChronicDiseaseSelf-ManagementProgram(PATH) isapatienteducationprogramdesignedtohelpadultslearntobettermanagetheirchronicconditions. Trainedleadersmeetwiththeirgroupsfor2½hourseachweekforsixconsecutiveweeks. Personsexperiencinganytypeofchronichealthconditionandtheirsignificantothers(orcaregivers)arealsoencouragedtoattend.Althoughdifferentchronic health conditions may have differentphysical impactsonaperson’sbody, theyoftencausesimilarproblemsrelatedtoactivitiesofdailyliving, interactionswith thehealthcaresystem,communicationwithfamilyandfriends,anddealingwithnegativeemotionssuchasfear,anxietyanddepression. PATH does not replace traditional patienteducationwiththedoctororhealthprofessional;itiscomplementarytoandreinforcessucheducation.

Intheprogram,participantsobtainnewinformation,learnnewskillsandabilities,anddevelopnewwaystomanageandcopewithchronichealthconditions.Participantsgiveandreceivesupportfromotherswhoareexperiencingsimilarhealthconditions.Aswell,theyrealizethattheyarenotaloneandthedifficultiestheyareexperiencingarenormal.Sessionsarehighly interactive,withemphasison strategies tohelp individualsmanagemoreeffectively. Content includes skills mastery(accomplished throughweeklycontracting todospecific behaviors and through feedback) andmodeling(mostleadersthemselveshaveachroniccondition). Leaders will frequently use groupproblem-solvingstrategies. InCalhounCounty, theP.A.T.H.WorkshopsareofferedbySeniorHealthPartners.Theyare freeandopentoanyonelivingwithachronicillnessorcaringforsomeonewhoischronicallyill.Formoreinformationortosign-upforaclass,call269/441-0948.

P■A■T■H■

Personal Action Toward Health- Senior Health Partners

PATH TEACHES THE FOLLOWING:

■ Howtodevelopanexerciseprogramthatisrightforyou

■ Cognitivesymptommanagement■ Healthyeating■ Breathingexercises■ Problemsolving■ Communicationskillswithfamily,

friends,andhealthcareproviders■ Medicationuse■ Dealingwithemotionsofchronic

illnesssuchasangeranddepression

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Oursenioryearsshouldbefilledwiththebestoftimesincludingcolorfulmemories.But,forsome,agingbrings

grayareasandmorecomplexissuesthatrequireassistancelikeillness,medications,andlong-termcare.Whenthegrayrequiresmorethanjustatouchup,olderadultsnowhaveanewresourceavailablelocallytohelpthemassesstheirhealthcareneeds.ItiscalledSeniorDiagnosticCenterofSouthCentralMichigan(SDC).ApartnershipamongBattleCreekHealthSystemandSummitPointe,theSeniorDiagnosticCenter

providesquality,comprehensivediagnostictestingclosetohome. SeniorDiagnosticCenteroffershelptoseniorpatientsandtheirfamiliesandtheirphysiciansbypromotingseniors’physical,cognitive,psychosocial,andspiritualwellbeing.Thissupportisofferedinacareplanthatissharedwiththepatientandtheirphysician.

IfyouoryourhealthcareproviderwouldlikemoreinformationabouthowtheSeniorDiagnosticCentercanhelpyoukeepthebrightcolorsinyourlife,call(269)441-1136.

Senior Diagnostic CenterofSouth Central Michigan

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AU

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SeniorHome Support

HomeHealth Support

269-731-5787FREE Initial Assessment

Services Include: Personal/Respite Care, 24-Hour Care,Shopping, Cooking, Cleaning, Laundry, Transportation,

and Handyman Services

269-731-5775 ext. 137Medicare Certified Agency

Services Include: Intermittent Skilled Nursing, Home HealthAides, Physical & Occupational Therapy, and Medical Social

Work Services as ordered by your PhysicianSenior Home Support &Home Health Support are

Divisions of the Foundationfor Behavioral Resources

600 South Lincoln St., Augusta, MI 49012 • SeniorHomeSupport.org

Foun

datio

n for Behavioral ResourcesFBR

When The Gray NeedsMore Than Just A Touch Up...If you’re like most seniors, a few gray hairsaren’t your only signs that you’re getting older.When your overall health presents some grayareas, too, there’s a place you can go to getanswers...The Senior Diagnostic Center ofSouth Central Michigan.

The skilled professionals at The SeniorDiagnostic Center consider all areas of yourhealth...physical, social and behavioral. Theyare experts at developing practical treatmentplans that can help you enjoy life to its fullest.What’s more, in addition to being shared withyour family doctor, it’s also shared with youand any loved ones you choose. This means nomore gray areas when it comes to your health.

So, if you’re a senior over 50 or better,consider giving your healthcare plan acomplete checkup. Make an appointment withThe Senior Diagnostic Center today. We’reright in your own backyard...and as far as youhave to go for answers.

Call 269/441-1136

SENIOR DIAGNOSTIC CENTER OF SOUTHCENTRAL MICHIGANLocated in the Behavioral Health Resources Building • 3630 Capital Ave, SW

South of Beckley Road in the Brickyard Cree Medical Office Park 11

Most Frequently Asked Questions■Thereisnoagelimitforindividualstocometo

SeniorDiagnosticCenter(SDC).Ifindividualsarehavingmemoryproblemsormultiplechronic diseases, they are appropriate,regardlessofage.

■Medicare,Medicaidandthirdpartypayers(BCBS,Etna,etc.)payfortheassessment.If there isasmallbalance,wewillsetupascheduleforpatientstopay. Ifpatientscannotaffordtopay,wedoprovidesomecharitycare.

■Referralsdonotneed tobemadebyaphysician.Agencies, friends, familyor thepatientmaymakeareferral.

■Wewillworkwiththepatientandcaregiverstosetupappointmentsthatareconvenientfortheirscheduleandcircumstances.

■ Family, friends or other caregivers mayaccompanythepatient,ifthepatientdesires.

■Theassessmentisaseriesofthreevisits.AllSDCstaffspecializeinolderadulthealth.

■Theprovidersare:agerontologist,socialworker,occupationaltherapistandphysicianassistant.Amedicationreviewisperformed.

■PatientshouldbringMedicare/Medicaidcard,supplemental insurancecard,driverslicense,listofmedications(withdose),anymedicaltestsperformedwithinthepastsixmonths.

■Areport fromtheSDCteamwillbesenttoyourprimarycarephysicianunlessyouspecifythatyoudonotwantthemtoreceivethereport.

■Aremindercallwillbemadetothepatientortheirdesigneepriortoappointmenttime.

■WeoftenhaveResidentDoctorstrainingatSDC,ifyouarenotcomfortablewiththembeingpresent,wewillhavethemrefrainfromworkingonapatientscase.

■ ■ ■ Answered

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Lassen0100067309

2011 SRX LUXURY COLLECTION2011 CTS SPORT SEDAN

LEASE FOR LEASE FOR

ULTRA LOW-MILEAGE LEASE FOR QUALIFIED LESSEES ULTRA LOW-MILEAGE LEASE FOR QUALIFIED LESSEES

Tax, title, license, dealer fees extra. Mileage charge of $.25/mile over 32,500 miles. Tax, title, license, dealer fees extra. Mileage charge of $.25/mile over 32,500 miles.

PERMONTH 1

PERMONTH 1

SECURITYDEPOSIT DUE

SECURITYDEPOSIT DUE

MONTHS MONTHS$388 $498DUE AT SIGNING$0 DUE AT SIGNING$0$0 $0

39 39

1. Example based on survey. Each dealer sets its own price. Your payments may vary. Payments are for a 2011 Cadillac CTS with an MSRP of $37,290. 39 monthly payments total $13,611. Payments are for a 2011 Cadillac SRX with an MSRP of $39,135. 39 monthly payments total $16,731. Option to purchase at lease end for an amount to be determined at lease signing. ALLY must approve lease. Take delivery by 4/1/11. Mileage charge of $.25/mile over 32,500 miles. Lessee pays for excess wear. Payments may be higher in some states. Not available with some other offers. Residency restrictions apply. 2. Length of contract limited. Some customers will not qualify. Take delivery by 4/1/11. See dealer for details. 3.

Visit www.cadillac.com/premium-care for details. 4. Whichever comes first. See dealer for details.12


Lassen0100067295

2011 ENCLAVE 2011 ALL NEW REGAL CXL

CASH BACK REBATE

/MONTH LEASE

OR0%APR

$0DUE AT SIGNING$2,000

$29534

* 39 month lease, 10,000 miles per year, payment plus tax, title, licence and doc. Well qualified customers. Must qualify for GM loyalty and available rates. Take delivery by 4/1/11. See dealer for details. 13

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LJ-0100075874

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

Call (269) 962-0605 for more information

• Income based community

• Heat & Water Included

• Pet Friendly

• No application fee

• Personal Emergency System

• Cable Ready

300 Carl Avenue, Battle Creek, MI 49037www.pvm.org

MONEY WORRIES?Feel like you’re losing control

of your finances?

Worried about being scammedor overcharged?

You’re not alone

Over 1000 seniors helped locally

Free service (if you qualify)

Confidential

A nonprofit with over 44 yearsof trusted services

www.yourguardian.org(866) 963-3253 x430

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Reverse Mortgage

Right Option?- Saul Friedman, Gannett Media

Q: How Does A Reverse Mortgage Work?A: A reverse mortgage is suited for older homeowners who have lots of equity but little cash and

no other ways to increase their income. The amount you can borrow is tied to your age (you must be at least 62), the value of your home and the interest rate. The principal, interest and fees add up month to month. The loan is repaid when you sell the house, move out or die.

- Source: M&T Bank

Manyolderhomeownersarejustgettingby—orworse.Retirementsavingsplansaredown.Those401(k)shavenotgrownenoughtobecountedonfor retirement.Pension fundsarehurting.But ifyou’reanolderhomeownerwithsufficientequitytoqualify,therecouldbesomereliefinaHomeEquityConversionMortgage,alsoknownasa reversemortgage. Thistypeofmortgageallowshomeowners62andolder toconvertpartof theequity in theirhomesintotax-freecashwithouthavingtosellthehome,giveupthetitle,ortakeonanewmonthlymortgagepayment.It’scalledareversemortgagebecause instead of the homeowner making apaymenttothelender,thelendermakespaymentstothehomeowner.Thelendereventuallygetsitsmoneybackwhenthehomeissoldortheownerdies.Anyexcesscashmadefromthehomesaleisreturnedtotheownerortheowner’sestate. TheFederalHousingAdministrationguaranteesthemortgage,meaningtheborrowerisprotectedfromlosingtheproperty,andthelenderisprotectedfromlosingthemoney,ifthevalueofthepropertydeclinesbelowtheworthoftheloan.Theproceedsmaybetakenasalineofcreditoraspayments.Fewhavetakenadvantageof it,partlybecausetheydon’tliketomortgageahomethat’sfreeandclear,orthey’reconcernedaboutheirs. Forfiscalyear2009,whichendedSept.30,therewere114,692reversemortgagesdoneintheU.S.ForMichigan,therewere2,088reversemortgagesdoneinthatsameperiod. Michael Gruley, president of First FinancialReverseMortgageinNorthville,saidhisfirmhasbeengettingmorecallsaboutreversemortgages.Hesaidtheyhavehelpedkeepsomeseniorsoutofforeclosure. “Manypeoplefacingforeclosuresareseniors,”Gruleysaid.“Thereisnocreditcriteria,thereversemortgagewillpayoffthelendersothatproblemgoesawayand theydon’thave toevermakeapaymentwhile living in thehouse.The reversemortgagefreesthemtostayintheirhometoonlypaytaxesandinsurance.” Still,declininghomevaluesmeansmanydon’thaveenoughequitytoqualify.“Weareabletohelpfewerpeople,”Gruleyadded.

REvERSE MORTGAGE RESOURCESU.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development202-708-1112,www.hud.govAARP,800-209-8085,www.hecmresources.orgNational Reverse Mortgage Lenders Associationwww.reversemortgage.orgHERE ARE THE BASICS:■ Youmustbe62orolder,owntheproperty

outrightorhavesufficientequityandoccupythepropertyasyourprincipalresidence.

■ Allclosingcosts,insuranceandinterestmaybefinancedinthemortgage.Noneoftheproceedsistaxable.Butallclosingcostsandinterestaretaxdeductiblewhentheloanispaid.Thehomeownerisnotliableifthepropertydeclinesbelowtheworthoftheloanbecausethelenderisguaranteedagainstloss.However,thepropertymustbemaintainedandthepropertytaxesmustbepaid.

■AllapplicantsaretoundergocounselingbyanexpertdesignatedandlicensedbytheU.S.DepartmentofHousingandUrbanDevelopment.

REvERSE MORTGAGE LOAN COMPARISONIsareversemortgagerightforyou?Herearesamplescenariosbasedonahomevaluedat$100,000,takingoutthemaximumamount,assuminginterestratesonAug.10ofthisyear.AgeOfBorrower: 62One-timelumpsum:$50,195Monthlypaymentforlife: $207.20

AgeOfBorrower: 72One-timelumpsum: $57, 495Monthlypaymentforlife:$277.76

AgeOfBorrower: 82One-timelumpsum:$65,395Monthlypaymentforlife:$415.04

AgeOfBorrower: 92One-timelumpsum: $72,695Monthlypaymentforlife:$859.54

Inallscenarios,theborrowerretainsownershipoftheproperty.Shouldtheborrowerdieorselltheproperty,anyresidualequitywouldbelongtotheborrowerortheirdesignatedheirs.14


StatisticsWe’ve Got YourWe’ve Got Your

ToTal prevalence of diabeTes

Total: 25.8 million children and adults in the United States—8.3% of the population—have diabetes.Diagnosed: 18.8 million peopleUndiagnosed: 7.0 million peoplePre Diabetes: 79 million people*New Cases: 1.9 million new cases of diabetes are diagnosed in people aged 20 years and older in 2010.age 65 years or older■ 10.9 million, or 26.9% of all people in this age

group have diabetes. Race and ethnic differences in prevalence of diagnosed diabetes

After adjusting for population age differences, 2007-2009 national survey data for people diagnosed with diabetes, aged 20 years or older include the following prevalence by race/ethnicity: ■ 7.1% of non-Hispanic whites ■ 8.4% of Asian Americans ■ 12.6% of non-Hispanic blacks ■ 11.8% of Hispanics MorbidiTy and MorTaliTy■ In 2007, diabetes was listed as the underlying

cause on 71,382 death certificates and was listed as a contributing factor on an additional 160,022 death certificates. This means that diabetes contributed to a total of 231,404 deaths.

coMplicaTionsHeart Disease And Stroke■ In 2004, heart disease was noted on 68% of

diabetes-related death certificates among people aged 65 years or older.

■ In 2004, stroke was noted on 16% of diabetes-related death certificates among people aged 65 years or older.

■ Adults with diabetes have heart disease death rates about 2 to 4 times higher than adults without diabetes.

■ The risk for stroke is 2 to 4 times higher among people with diabetes.

High blood pressure■ In 2005-2008, of adults aged 20 years or older

with self-reported diabetes, 67% had blood pressure greater than or equal to 140/90 mmHg or used prescription medications for hypertension.

Blindness■ Diabetes is the leading cause of new cases of

blindness among adults aged 20–74 years.■ In 2005-2008, 4.2 million (28.5%) people with

diabetes aged 40 years or older had diabetic retinopathy, and of these, almost 0.7 million (4.4% of those with diabetes) had advanced diabetic retinopathy that could lead to severe vision loss.

Kidney disease■ Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure,

accounting for 44% of new cases in 2008.■ In 2008, 48,374 people with diabetes began

treatment for end-stage kidney disease in the United States.

■ In 2008, a total of 202,290 people with end-stage kidney disease due to diabetes were living on chronic dialysis or with a kidney transplant in the United States.

Nervous system disease (Neuropathy)■ About 60% to 70% of people with diabetes

have mild to severe forms of nervous system damage.

Amputation■ More than 60% of nontraumatic lower-limb

amputations occur in people with diabetes.■ In 2006, about 65,700 nontraumatic lower-limb

amputations were performed in people with diabetes.

cosT of diabeTes■ $174 billion: Total costs of diagnosed diabetes in

the United States in 2007■ $116 billion for direct medical costs ■ $58 billion for indirect costs (disability, work

loss, premature mortality)After adjusting for population age and sex differences, average medical expenditures among people with diagnosed diabetes were 2.3 times higher than what expenditures would be in the absence of diabetes.Factoring in the additional costs of undiagnosed diabetes, prediabetes, and gestational diabetes brings the total cost of diabetes in the United States in 2007 to $218 billion.■ $18 billion for people with undiagnosed

diabetes ■ $25 billion for American adults with prediabetes ■ $623 million for gestational diabetes

Data from the:2011 National Diabetes Fact Sheet

Released Jan. 26, 2011

(269) 968-3365565 General Ave. • Springfield, MIwww.carecommunitybc.com

Care Community Recognized for Makinga Commitment to Quality

Care Community in Battle Creek is a recipient of the Michigan Centerfor Assisted Living’s (MCAL) Quality Standard Seals for levels of BestPractice.

Care Community has been recognized at MCAL’s second level ofthe Quality Standard Seals. A multi-step application process tookplace in early 2010 to find homes committed to quality initiatives andimprovement in their assisted living settings.

Linda Lawther, president/CEO of MCAL, said “I visit many assistedliving homes in Michigan on a regular basis. It is an honor to be able torecognize the ones who are proving their ability and their drive to be thevery best.”

In 2003, the MCAL Quality Standard Seals for Levels of Best Practicebecame an annual achievement opportunity for Michigan homes.Michigan’s process was based on the National Center for Assisted Living(NCAL) Quality First Principles for Performance Excellence. Michigan’sprogram is designed to encourage participants to move through each ofthree steps with a goal for greater quality and excellence each year.

MCAL members applying for a level two seal develop a qualityimprovement program as well as have full staff commitment to the NCALQuality First Pledge. Level two participants have also begun the basics ofstrategic planning.

The program was developed in a way that encourages homes to step up atleast one level each year with a three to four-year plan.

Care Community is one of four homes in the state of Michigan receivingthe level two seal in 2010.

MCAL is a statewide association of Housing with Services Communities,Homes for the Aged, Adult Foster Care and Independent Senior HousingProviders in Michigan, promoting the highest quality of person centeredcare and leadership principals. MCAL is also a resource for consumereducation and information. You may contact MCAL by calling517.627.1561 or by email at [email protected].

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CARE COMMUNITYASSISTED LIVING

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BATTLECREEKTRANSIT

CITY OF BATTLE CREEK • 339W. MICHIGANAVE.P.O. BOX 1717 • BATTLE CREEK, MI 49016-1717

What is Tele-Transit?Tele-transit service is door to door public

transportation for Battle Creek arearesidents. For more information please visit

our website or call the number below.

bct BATTLECREEKTRANSIT

Visit www.battlecreekmi.gov/living or call (269) 966-3474

LJ-0100075867

In a Spring Mood

April 16 • 7 pmTickets $28 • Members $26

Tibbits Opera HouseColdwater, MI 49036

LJ-0100078605

The World Famous

Glenn Miller Orchestra

517.278.6029www.Tibbits.org

BRENDAMOORE HOMES

Private Care for the ElderlyOur Home/Your Home

25 Years Experience Makes the Difference

BRENDAMOORE, R.N. (269) 965-0494CERTIFIED GERONTOLOGY

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areC

Booming Into Bold Age

Get ting the Most Out of Get ting Older- Tamera Nielsen For the Battle Creek Enquirer

We can’t turn back time ...towhenourtummiesweretoned,ourmindsweresharperandourhairwasfuller–orevenvisible.Butwecanstrutintoold(er)agewithabitmoremoxieandfeelwell,despitetheinevitablechangesandchallenges.Whilesomeofuschooseplasticsurgery,spatreatmentsandotherproductstosloworreversetheagingprocess,herearesomealternativestoconsiderthatjustmaybemoreaffordable,lessinvasiveandeasiertoimplement.Let’sfaceit;livingthroughwintersinMichigancanturnthemostoptimisticoffolksintogrumbling,weather-beatenbores.Hereareafewtipstomaketheboomingcoldweatherabitmoretolerableandmaybeevenjoyful.

16


1. spend time alone Nomatterhowbust,tapped,exhaustedorover-committedyoumaybe,alwaysmaketimeforyou.Schedule‘you’timeeachday.Fiveor10minutesofprivacy,quietandtimealonewithabsolutelynointerruptionscaneasetension,giveyouclarityofmind,rejuvenateawearyspiritandgiveasenseofrelief.Acalmer,happieryoumakesforayoungeryou.

2. change up your routine, environment or dietIfyouare feelingabitofmalaise,a tadblue,orjustfeellikeyouneedajump-start,consideralteringyourroutine.Somethingassimpleas takingadifferent route toworkoralteringyourgymvisitcanmakeapositiveimpact.Giveyourselfachangeofsceneryforanhour–ormaybeafewdays.Thechangejustmayspurachangeofmind.Tryswitchingyourdietforaweekortwo.Theseareeasychangesthatcanhaveamajorimpactonyourwell-being–physicallyandmentally.

3. invest in a S.A.D.D. lightPositionitinaplacewhereyouspendthemajorityofyourtime.Tryitforacoupleofweeks.Youmaybesurprisedatitseffects.

4. stretch and exercise in publicYes,itsoundsstrange.Butconsiderdoingbootycruncheswhileyou’redriving.Itkeepsyourendorphinsanddoesyourbodygood,too!Stretchoften.Iteasesmentalandphysicaltensionandboostsyourendorphinsaswell.Youcanstretchatyourdesk,oreveninthecheckoutline atthestore.Ifanyonegivesyoupeculiarlooks,smile–broadly.

5. twinkle lights year ‘roundWhite,red,purple,blue-whateveryour favorite twinkle light colorhappenstobe,choseitandhangthem up all over your home ormaybe inasilkplantor tree. It’samazinghowlightingcanalteryourstateofmind,igniteyourcreativityandboostyoursprit.

6. candles, infusers & scentsOurOlfactorysense is thestrongestsense of memory. So invest a fewcents in scents. Keep a scentedcandleburningathomeoroffice.Usescentedbody lotionoressentialoils.

Burnyourfavoritescentinaninfuser.Rememberthesmelloffreshlybaked

breadorcookiesandhowitmakesyoufeel? The same conceptapplies tokeepyourspirit

andmindmotivated.

17LJ-0100075856

Providing Post Acute RehabRestoring HealthRecovering AbilitiesRejoicing in LifeVisit Our Facilityto Experience the Difference111 Evergreen Rd., Battle Creek, MI 49015Phone: (269) 969-6110, Fax: (269) 969-6119

www.evergreenscc.com

7. music to move your spiritMusicholdsthepowertomotivateandevokeamultitudeofemotions.Chooseyourmusicwiselyanduseitoftentohelpyoustayhealthyinmindandbody.Ifyouexerciseathome,playmusicthatraisesyourspiritandtrymovingtoitfreely.Ifyouneedtorelax,playsomethingthatsoothesyoursoul.

8. schedule joyful time every dayImpossible?Hardly.Hoponlineorpickupalocalpublicationandlookattheeventsaroundtown.Here’sa few ideas thatmayelicit joyfulness:takeanartclass, listen to livemusic,go toapoetryreading,havecoffee(orcocktails)withafriend,playamusicalinstrument,walkinthepark,watchafavoritemovieorindulgeinadecadenttreat.Thelistisendless.The

choiceisyours.

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Connection

Choices, choices,choices, we areoverloadedwithchoices

inourdaily lives.Whetherit’s47brandsofmustardatthestore,40+MedicarePrescription Drug Plans, every auto insurancecompanyontelevisiontalkingabouthowmuchyoucansavebyswitching,allthepizzaandfastfoodflyersinthemail,hearingaidedevicesfrom$20adsintheSundaypaperto$1,000offcouponsinthemail,it’salltooconfusing. Andthemorechoiceswehavedoesnotmeanour livesareanybetter. Itcanbeanalmost daunting job tosortoutthefakeryandfraudulentfromtherealand beneficial. Eachproductsourceistryingharder,louder,splashier,and repetitively inmorewaystogetyourattention,togetyouto

buy,togetyouhookedasacustomer,whetheryoumayneedtheproductornot. Doyourememberthe“goodol’days”whenlifewassimpler,choicesweremoreinourcontrol,andthedoctorwasonafirstnamebasis?WellIremembersomeof thosedaysaswell:ahandpump in thekitchenbringingupcoolwaterfromthecisternfedfromrainwaterandeavestroughs;aringer-washingmachinethatrequiredcarryingpailsofdirtywash

waterouttotheyard;aparty-linephoneinwhich5-6neighborscouldlistenintoyourexploits;awoodstoveinthelivingroombeforecentralheat;backyardtracksinthesnowtotheouthouse,

etc.B/Wtelevisionmightbefoundonacouple localstations—rememberthose‘rabbitears?’;theradioalwaysgavethefarmreporteachmorning;thenoonwhistlecouldbeheardtwomilesaway;andyouhadtobecarefultopushthechokebackinonyourcarortractoraftercrankingitforawhileanditcouldchugtolife.

It’slikewhenIthinkbackonmyfour yearsin the Air Force; the further awayI get the better they a r eremembered. Thesame with thegood old days;they weren’t so g o o dwheninthemiddleofthestrugglesoflife.Butstill,toomanychoicesofthesamegeneralitemnowadaysarenotreallyhelpfuleither. Wheredoesanolderadultgotogethelporaskquestionswhenconfrontedwithsomeseemingly

good,andalmosttoogood,choicestoselectfrom?Youcanalmostbankonaparaphraseoftheoldlinethatifsomethingsoundstoogoodtobereal,itprobablyisnotreal.Itisoftenascamorhooktolure

youintoawrongdecisionforyoursituation.Herearesomeplacesyoucangotogettheinformationformakingbetterchoices:HealthFairsforSeniorsandtheirCaregivingFamilyMembers: Arelativenewcomerontotheplayingfield

isthe2ndAnnualMarshallAreaSeniorHealthFair.WithafocusontheservicesandresourcesthatsupportolderadultsintheMarshall,Albion,andsurroundingcommunities. It isThursday,April7from9:00amto1:00pmattheMarshallMiddleSchool,100E.GreenSt.inMarshall.Alargenumberoflocalvendorswillbeshowcasingtheservicesthatcanmakelifeeasierandmorestableforolderadultswantingtolivesafelyandindependently in theirown residence.Theseare the localprofessionals thatassistpeopleeachdaywithfinancialplanning,selectinghealthequipmentandservices,findingtransportation,supportingactiveaging,educatingthemind,andlivingactivelyandsafely.Formoreinformation,

seetheadinthispaper,orcallCalhounCountySeniorServicesat269-7819-

0846.DoorPrizeson thehour.The Spring Health FairsponsoredbytheSeniorProviderNetworkGroupis scheduled for April26th from 10:00AM to2:00PMatAirwayOxygen,595NorthAveinBattleCreek.Formore information,c a l l P e g g eHuntleyat269-969-4000. Always aninformativesession,thereareanumber

Building Trust

Know Where to Ask for Assistance- Carl Gibson Calhoun County Senior Services

LJ-0100078709

879 East Michigan Street, Marshall, MI 49068Phone: 269.781.4251 • Fax: 269.781.8420

- Foster GrandparentProgram

- Congregate Dining Sites- Supplemental Food

- Home Delivered Meals- Minor Home Repair &Utility Assistance

- Senior Transportation

1-877-422-2726LJ-0100079386LJ-0100075712

www.avnf.com • 269-979-22575275 BECKLEY RD

“We’re dedicated to your Healthful Living”

Wednesday Senior Citizen Day 10% off all itemsEveryday Senior Discount on Supplements

10% off

Sun: 11-5,Mon–Thur: 9-8,Fri: 9-4 (winter)

Fri: 9-6 (summer)

Sat. CLOSED

LJ-0100079366

1418 Cooper Street P.O. Box 944, Albion, MI 49224Phone 517-629-3842 | Fax 517-629-5827

www.forksseniorcenter.org

Natural Foods Senior Services

Senior Center Senior Health

18

We’ve Got Your


ofspeakersscheduledonestateplanning,longtermcareinsurance,housingoptions,andinnovationinmedicalequipment.Itisavaluabledayfilledwithinformation,food,anddoorprizes.

TRUSTED SOURCES TO CALL Ifyouwouldrathermakeacall,trytheseplacesfor questioning suspected Frauds and Scams,determining whether some ad or phone callis legitimate, to reportsuspected identity theft,

ques t ioning the‘ free governments p o n s o r e d c e l lphones,’ or checkingthe background ofsomeone calling or

stoppingbyandsayingtheyarefromagovernmentagencyorbankinginstitution.(Alwaysquestionthislatterbunch,particularlyifyoumadenocontactwiththeminthefirstplace.)

CALHOUN COUNTY OFFICE OF SENIOR SERvICES269-781-0846

in MarshallAREA AGENCY ON AGING, RGN 3-B

269-966-2450 in Battle Creek

GUARDIAN FINANCE AND ADvOCACY269-963-3253 in Battle Creek

Itisonlywisestewardshipofyourresourcestoquestion,documentandfollow-upifsomethingistoogoodtobereal.Thereisnoshameinmakingamistake,butanylossonlygetsbiggerifthefraudulentactivitygoesunreported. Feelfreetostopinatoneofthehealthfairsand meet the trustworthy companies andcommunitymemberswhosupportourseniorseveryday.Orcalloneoftheothernumbersabovetoaskquestionsaboutserviceswithwhichyouhavenoexperience.Havingfewchoicesisnotalwayseasy,buthaving toomanychoicescanalsobeconfusing.

Our purpose is to make your life worth living,with dignity and caring. www.calhouncountymi.gov/seniorservices

Formoreinformationabouttheseandother

SeniorMillagefundedservices,callthe

Calhoun County Office of Senior Services

(269) 781-0846

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Art programs enrich and enhancethe lives of older adults through:• Recreation • Self Expression

• Communication • Socialization• Intellectual Stimulation

• Emotional Well-Being • Physical Benefits

(269) 962-9511 or (269) 964-9680www.artcenterofbattlecreek.org

LJ-0100079375

The EatonArea Senior Center804 S. Cochran

Charlotte, MI 48813517-541-2934

May 10-15Branson , MO - $750 per person double occupancy.

8 shows, 9 meals.

May 25Daniel O’Donnell - $138 per person lunch included.

June 5-10Savannah - $699 per person double occupancy.

3 dinners including Lady & Sons’s.

June 14-23Amtrak to California - $1629 per person double occupancy.

July 11 – 15NewYork City - $659 per person hotel in Times Square.

August 6-13San Antonio,TX - $779 per person double occupancy.

August 25Mackinac Island - $139 per person. Included ferry to the Island,

taxi to the Grand Hotel and Buffet Lunch.

September 16-26LasVegas & the Grand Canyon - $995 per person

double occupancy.

October 14 – 22Mediterranean Cruise starts at $2,699.

November 7-19Caribbean & Panama Canal starts at $2,299.

Join us for an affordable trip or two. Call 517-541-2934 for more information.

Marshall Area SeniorHealth Fair

Thursday, April 7th, 2011from 9:00am to 1:00pm

atMarshall Middle School

100 East Green Street, Marshall, MI

This event will showcase information and services of specialinterest to older adults and caregiving family members.

Sponsoring Partners: Marshall CommunityFoundation, Maplewood of Marshall,

Fountain Clinic, Schroeder Degraw PLLC,Forks Senior Center, Family Health Center and

Marshall Area Chamber of Commerce.

Call (269) 781-0846For More Information

MARSHALL HOUSEAPARTMENTSGentle Hands Powerful Voices

This event is brought to you by:

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11 InPart1ofmyarticleonTheCostofChronicDisease, I talkedaboutthepersonalcostofchronicdisease–namelylossoflifeandincreasedcostofcare.However, thereareother considerationsrelated to the costofchronicdiseasesthatdeserves some ofour attention – inthiscaserelativeto

thecostofchronicdiseaseforourMedicaresystem.

With the passage of theAffordableCareAct,therehavebeenmanyarticles, surveys,

andreportsonthecostofhealthcareintheUnitedStates.S t il l manyothers havelookedattheimpendingimpact of

boomers onthe Medicare

system.I’vereadthroughalotofthematerialand f ind thenumbers downright frightening.I guess in realitythisisagoodnews– bad news sortofstory.Thegoodnewsisthatweareliving longer.Wehave decreasedthemortalityfrom

Chronic Disease

The Cost is Too High- Karla Fales, CEO Region 3B Area Agency on Aging

part 2

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strokesasanexampleby13%since1995.Alzheimer’sdiseasemortalityisalsodecreasing.Heartdiseaseatonetimeaccountedformorethan40%ofthemortalityofadults,thatnumberisnowcloserto25%-222deathsper100,000deathsreported.Evenchroniclungdisease,thefourthleadingcauseofdeathofadults,hasseenadecreaseof1.5%peryearandthatrateisexpectedtocontinuethroughatleast2030.SoIguessweandthemedicalcommunitydeservealittlepatonthebackforourefforts–maybe. Soyouask,whereisthebadnews?Thebadnewsis that the cost ofincreasingourlifespansis astronomical andis beginning to raisequestionsandconcernsamong many fields –medicine,ethics,religionand even, in termsof personald e c i s i o nm a k in g . I ’mcer tainly notgoingtodelveinto a l lofthevariousargumentsthatcouldberaised,especiallyrelatedto theethicsof living longer.However, Idobelievethatanothervalidpointcanbemadefromtherealityof thesecostsandtheirpotential impactonMedicareandmoretothepointofthisarticle.Thatis?Diseaseisexpensive,preventionischeaperandreapsusgreaterrewards. Okay,abriefethicaljauntrelativetoqualityoflife.IhaveonlyhadafewtimesinmylifetositandponderontheideaofhowIwanttoliveneartheendofmylife.Ido,however,findmyselftalkingaboutthisfrequentlywithmymanyseasonedfriends.Irememberoneparticularlyfeistyladywhotoldme(excusetheexpletives),“Iplan

onfighting likehell tostayhealthyso Idon’thavetofightlikehelltostayalive.”Herpointisvalid–theamountoftimeweinvestinstayinghealthyandwardingoffdisease

iswellspent.Consider ifyouwill theaveragecostofagymmembership.I’ll

useTheFitnessLoft,sinceIknowtheirprices.Aseniormembershipisonly$110ayear.Notyet55yearsofage–thecostis$180ayear.That’sright–foroneyear.Comparethistothecostofcareforjustthefirst30daysfollowingastroke-$13,019forMILDcases.Diabetesaswell-thereispredictedtobea53%increaseinincidencerateofdiabetesbetween2003and2023.Wecurrentlyspendabout10%ofourhealthcaredollarsontheoveralldirectcostsrelatedtodiabetes–that’sabout$92billionayearifyouaredoingthemathbytotalpopulation.In2020,thatnumberisprojectedtobe

closerto$200billion.The most concerning partof thecostofcaresurveysthathavecomeoutsincethedebateontheAffordableCareActlastyearisthatMedicarecurrentlybearsorwillbeara

significantamountofthesecosts.

I n 2 0 0 7a l o n e ,Medicare

r e p o r t e dspending $1.4 billion on in-patientservicesrelatedtoDiabetes.Forheartdisease,thepricetagtoMedicarewas$24billion. I’mnotapoliticianandamprobablyinnopositiontomakeorencouragemajorchangesinhowourcountryspendsitsmoney.Yikes,I’mnotthatdaring!I’malsonotabigfanofstartingargumentsovertopicslikehealthcarereform,Medicarespending,andmedicalethics.However, Iamwillingtodomypartandhelpotherscontributetothegreatergood,sotospeak. SomyplanforhelpingoutMedicareforcurrentandfuture (Ihope)generations?Prevention,prevention,prevention!IguessyoucouldsayIamsupportiveofthemanycomponentsof thenewhealthcare lawsthatsupportpreventionasaviablestrategytoaddressissueslikechronicdiseaseandlife-styleillnesses.Icangetbehindandinfrontofthat. SoifyouareasconcernedasIamaboutthecostofhealthcare,probablytheonlyrealtangiblethingyouandIcandoisnotbecomeoneofthecontributorstothatcost.I’mwillingtodomypart(seemyPartIarticleonthistopic).Whataboutyou?

So my plan for helping out Medicare for current and future (I hope)

generations?

Prevention, Prevention,

Prevention!

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Visit homehealth.borgess.com for information or call (800) 343.1396to schedule a free consultation.

* Source: Centers for Medicare andMedicaid Services for CY 2009. A member of Ascension Health®

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Sam is 54 years old.

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A communitypartnershipofBattleCreekHealthSystem,AreaAgencyonAging, CentraCare and Summit PointeChronicdiseasessuchasdiabetes,heartdisease,stroke,cancerandarthritisareamongthemostcommonandpreventableofallhealthproblemsintheUnitedStates.Atleast1inevery2adultshasachronicillness.

AccordingtotheCentersforDiseaseControl,7outof10deathseachyeararefromchronicdiseasewithheartdisease,cancerandstrokeaccountingformorethan50%ofthosedeaths.

Whatcanyoudo tokeepyourself frombecomingpartofthestatistics?

Thereare fourwaysyoucanreduceyourchancesofdevelopingachronicillnessor,ifyoualreadyhaveachronicillness,fourwaystoimproveyourabilitytofunction.

Chronic Disease

Common, Preventable & Manageable- Linda Grap, Senior Health Partners

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4. Use alcohol wisely or not at all Weightherisksandbenefits.Someresearchhasshownbenefitsintheconsumptionoflimitedamountsofredwine.Ontheotherhand,alargenumberofstudiesshowstrongevidencethatalcoholincreasesyourriskoflivercancer,breastcancerandcoloncancer.

1. ExerciseMorethanone-thirdofalladultsdonotmeettherecommendedguidelinesforphysicalactivity.Ifyouarejustgettingstarting,beginwithsmallchanges.Trywalkingfor10minutesatatimeordoinglightexercisesinyourchair.Continuetoincreaseyourexercisesto30minutesperdayovertime.Question:Whatisthebesttypeofexercise?Answer:Theoneyoulikeandwillkeepdoing.

2. Eat right Increaseyourconsumptionoffruitsandvegetablestoatleast5servingsaday.Reducefatinyourdiet.Eatlessredmeatandmorewholegrains.Drinkwater–lotsofit.

3. Quit smoking Lungcanceristheleadingcauseofcancerdeathsandcigarettesmokingcausesalmostallcases.Smokingcausescancerofthelarynx,mouthandthroat,esophagus,bladder,kidneys,pancreas,cervixandstomach.Avoidsecond-handsmokeaswell.It’sdeadly.

Preventing chronic illness is easier and costs a lot less

than having one. If you already have a chronic illness, there are still actions

you can take to improve your health and live more of

the life you choose.

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LJ-0100072390

Mary Ellen Benzik, MDFamily Medicine

*18 years of age or older

Amanda Henry-Minor, DOInternal Medicine

Joel Smith, PA-CInternal Medicine

MERCY COMMUNITY PHYSICIANS

Helping youto a healthier life.

Accepting New Patients*

Evening appointments available onMondays and Wednesdays

(269) 969-6145

632 North Avenue24

Documents

Senior Connection - Managing Diabetes & Other Chronic Ailments