NEWS AND POSSIBILITES FOR SENIORS A Publication of

PHILADELPHIA CORPORATION FOR AGING November 2018 • Free

[ National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month | November] IN THIS ISSUE Caregiving CAREGIVING Seniors raising children face Emergency Fund: Winter crisis looms...... 5 unique challenges By Marcia Z. Siegal

Doris Roberts, 85, is among the thousands of older adults in Philadel- phia who are raising grandchildren,

great-grandchildren and other young FundedPCA Program by PCA relatives whose biological parents cannot care for them. “I raised six children; seven grandchildren, who are all adults now; and now I’m raising my great-grand- son, Hydir,” she said. Hydir, who is now 14, has been in Roberts’ care since he was a baby. “The way I see it, God gave me these kids,” said Fond memories: • continued on page 16 Oatmeal’s powers...... 13 Shutterstock Is it dementia or normal aging? How to recognize the difference By Alicia M. Colombo are so prevalent in older adults, It’s important to know the difference between normal aging Are you getting forgetful? Have you mis- and signs of a problem — and when it may be placed your keys lately? You might be con- time to seek help. cerned that it’s something serious, like Al- zheimer’s. Almost 6 million Americans have The aging process Alzheimer’s disease, according to the Alzheim- It is normal for people in their 50s or 60s er’s Association. It is estimated that one out of to have trouble with word retrieval or multi- Health Brief...... 2 every nine people older than 65 has Alzheim- tasking. “Older people, compared to younger er’s or another dementia and that one in three people, may struggle to learn multiple things Calendar...... 10 seniors will die from a form of dementia. at one time,” said Jason Karlawish, M.D., co- Crossword...... 19 “The incidence of Alzheimer’s and other de- director of the Penn Memory Center. “But mentias is only expected to increase over time, what they do learn, they retain over time.” NEXT MONTH: as the baby boomers continue to age,”said Retaining knowledge over time is known as Krista McKay, director of programs and ser- fluid intelligence, and remembering the infor- Home for the vices for the Alzheimer’s Association Delaware mation is called crystallized intelligence. With Valley Chapter. “Beyond 65, every five-year age aging, crystallized intelligence is stable or even Paola Nogueras Holidays Great-grandmother Doris Roberts gets a hug from her group has an increased risk for Alzheimer’s.” increases as we learn new things. In contrast, great-grandson, Hydir, whom she is raising. Because Alzheimer’s and other dementias • continued on page 14 Milestones 2 November 2018

Health Brief Practicing self-care is essential for a WHO IS PCA? caregiver’s overall health, well-being Corporation for Practicing self-care is integral to leading a Aging (PCA) is a nonprofit healthy lifestyle. However, people often place SELF-CARE NEEDS agency dedicated to serving the needs of others above their own, putting Philadelphia seniors. In addi- their physical and mental health at risk in the CHECKLIST: tion to bringing you Milestones process. This is especially true of caregivers. newspaper, PCA offers: Caring for the needs of others often comes e at the expense of meeting one’s own needs. Physical • Care in the home The self-care checklist below was put together e • Home-delivered meals Social by Iona, a senior services program based in • Home repairs and Washington, D.C. It can serve as a reminder e Emotional modifications for seniors to keep their individual needs at e • Protective services the forefront every day, even if they are caring Spiritual • Ombudsman services • Senior centers for another. • Caregiver support • Health education Spiritual needs • Employment and • Information and referral Physical needs n I take time to engage in the faith-based volunteer programs For more information, call the PCA n I’m seeing my doctor(s) regularly and practice that helps to sustain me (if appli- • Legal services Helpline at 215-765-9040 or visit keeping up with recommended appoint- cable). • Transportation pcaCares.org. ments. n I’m exercising daily. Caregiving-specific needs Call 24/7 to report suspected elder abuse. n I’m maintaining a balanced diet. PCA Helpline: 215-765-9040 n I understand the diagnosis and prognosis Outside Philadelphia toll-free: n I’m getting the recommended seven to for my loved one’s condition, so I am pre- 888-215-765-9041 (TDD) eight hours of sleep each night. pared for the challenges of caregiving. Published by Philadelphia Corporation for Aging www.pcaCares.org n I’m taking my medications on schedule n I understand the financial and legal situ- Holly Lange, President and CEO Milestones is published monthly and distrib- (if applicable). ations surrounding my caregiving responsi- uted at more than 1,100 locations throughout Board of Directors bilities. Philadelphia, lower Bucks and eastern Mont- n I’m not misusing alcohol or drugs. Katherine E. Galluzzi, D.O., gomery counties. n I have a plan for the future as my loved F.A.C.O.F.P., Chair Check us out online: pcaMilestones.org. Social needs one’s needs change, or I know where to get Judee M. Bavaria, Vice Chair help making a plan. Glenn D. Bryan, Secretary Editor: Alicia M. Colombo n I’m seeing family and friends on a regu- Barbara Waynant Murphy, Treasurer 215-765-9000, ext. 5081 lar basis and keeping up with the lives of n I’m not tolerating abuse from the person I am caring for. Louis A. Bove, Esq. PCA, 642 N. Broad St. people in my social circle(s). Lynn Fields Harris Philadelphia, PA 19130 n I’m participating regularly in at least one n I’m asking for, and accepting, help from Email: [email protected] Angela Foreshaw-Rouse activity I enjoy. family, friends, neighbors and professionals. Lydia Hernandez-Velez Advertising: Joan Zaremba Fran Miller 215-765-9000, ext. 5051 n I have fun at least once a week. While being aware of one’s own needs is Victor M. Negrón, Jr Email: [email protected] Satya B. Verma, O.D. an important first step to ensuring a healthy Subscriptions & Distribution: Emotional needs Lenore Wasserman Scola lifestyle, caregivers may need additional sup- Home delivery: $12/year n John Whitman I engage regularly in at least one healthy port. For caregivers who are struggling, PCA’s To subscribe or find a distributor: Eloise N. Young outlet for stress. (This can include enjoy- Emily Ozga, 215-765-9000, ext. 5050 Caregiver Support Program offers education Jacqueline S. Zinn, Ph.D. ing a hobby, confiding in someone, writing, and training, information and referrals, and Emeritus: Arthur E. Helfand, D.P.M. Email: [email protected] reading, exercising, meditating or otherwise financial benefits for those who qualify. Visit The views expressed in Milestones are not necessarily those of Philadelphia Corporation for Ag- relaxing.) pcaCares.org/caregivers or see article on page ing (PCA). Milestones will not knowingly accept or publish fraudulent or misleading advertising. n When I feel I cannot handle difficult emo- 16 for more information. Milestones reserves the right to edit, revise or reject ads. Milestones assumes no responsibility for errors, misprints, omissions or misinformation; for failure to publish an ad; or for any damages of tions on my own, I reach out to those I rely Funded by PCA any kind. Neither the publisher nor any other party is rendering expert advice in this publication. on for emotional support. Checklist source: Iona.org No part of this newspaper may be reproduced without the permission of PCA. ©2018 Philadelphia Corporation for Aging. All rights reserved. OurOur Community. Community.Our Community. OurOur Health. Health. Our Health. Our Community. Our Health. PAPA Health HealthPA & & WellnessHealth Wellness &is focusedWellnessfocused on on whole iswhole focused on whole healthhealthPA Healthcare, care, refl& refl Wellness ecting ecting ison focused aa person’sperson’s on whole total total health care, refl ecting on a person’s total well-beingwell-beinghealth and and meeting meeting care, refleacheach ecting person’s person’s on unique unique a person’s total well-being and meeting each person’s unique needs. Providing whole health care and long needs.needs. Providingwell-being Providing whole whole and healthhealth meeting care care and and longeach long person’s unique term supports and services requires us to termterm supports supportsneeds. and and Providing services services requiresrequires whole us us tohealth to care and long broaden our services and provide solutions broadenbroaden our our services services and and provide solutions solutions to addressterm all ofsupports life’s changes. and services requires us to to addressto address all all of of life’s life’s changes. changes. Our fullbroaden continuum ofour health, services support, and and provide solutions Our Ourfull fullcontinuum continuum of of health, health, support,support, and and servicesservicesto options options address provides provides all diversediverseof life’s solutions changes. servicestoto improve improve options outcomes. outcomes. provides We We understanddiverseunderstand solutions and to addressimproveaddressOur barriers barriersoutcomes. full to continuumto health health We understand andand provideprovide of health, and support, and addressaccessaccess barriersservicesto to the the best best to care options healthcare for for eachandeach provides provide and every diverse solutions accesspersonperson to to theto live live best his his or careor her her forbest best each life.life. and every person toto live improve his or her outcomes. best life. We understand and PAHealthWellness.comaddressPAHealthWellness.com barriers to health and provide PAHealthWellness.comaccess1-844-626-68131-844-626-6813 to the best care for each and every person1-844-626-6813 to live his or her best life. PAHealthWellness.com 1-844-626-6813 Milestones 4 November 2018

Caregiving More millennials caring for elders By Marcia Z. Siegal

While most people think of family caregivers as middle-aged or older, one-quarter of those car- ing for family members are con- siderably younger. These millenni- al caregivers (born between 1980 and 1996) play a critical role in families by providing unpaid care to their chronically ill, disabled and aging parents, grandparents or other relatives. The number of millennial caregivers continues to expand as the baby boomer gen- eration ages. Many are studying in college or beginning their careers, building their professional net- Courtesy: Conlan Crosley works, and starting families. Elder Millennial Conlan Crosley with his late mother, Dorothy caregiving is not something that Roberts, for whom he was caregiver. people in their early 20s to late 30s typically anticipate. to knee surgery. After years of often desperate Conlan Crosley attests to the shock of sud- financial struggles, she had recently reached denly becoming a caregiver. He was 32 when the point where was finally able to buy a car his mother, Dorothy Roberts, was diagnosed and move from her tiny apartment to a house. with Alzheimer’s disease in 2013, and he be- She was so proud of this, her son remembers: came her caregiver. The next five years proved “She had worked for 25 years to get out of to be a harrowing journey for both of them. destitution and have some dignity.” Roberts, A 2017 study by researchers at the University then 66, had a plan for her future and was of Southern California reported that one in looking forward to a secure retirement at the six millennial caregivers is providing care to a time of her choosing. dementia patient. Around 40 percent of those That plan changed, and Roberts retired millennials are the sole caregiver for their when her Alzheimer’s worsened. Crosley’s loved one, as was Crosley. plans also changed as he focused on his When symptoms of his mother’s illness mother’s increasing medical and personal first became apparent, Crosley was an under- care needs. graduate at Temple University. He had previ- While Alzheimer’s progresses differently ously supported himself as a union carpenter, for each individual, in Roberts’ case, signifi- but that work had dried up in 2008 during cant points of decline occurred roughly every and following the Great Recession. To make six months for a while and then precipitously. ends meet, he was living at home with his “The first six months after her diagnosis, she mother. He remembers his shock when one was about 93 percent,” Crosley said. “She was day he came home to find her sitting alone still driving to do errands. Six months later, in the basement. The house was totally dark. she was about 85 percent. Each time she got None of the lights were working. “I called worse, I would get used to it and say, ‘It’s not up the electric company to find out what so bad. I can deal with it.’ Eventually, things was going on, and it turned out that she had got a lot worse. She became really inconti- not paid her bills in months,” Crosley said. nent. She was up at all hours of the night. Af- “I started looking into all the bills. It was a ter these incontinence incidents, I would have mess.” Soon after, a neurologist diagnosed to dress her and shower her. She hated being Roberts with Alzheimer’s disease. At that in the shower. Sometimes she would escape time, she was on disability leave from her job out of the house.” as a Turnpike toll collector due • continued on page 12 November 2018 Milestones 5

As winter looms, PCA Emergency

Fund is in a major financial crisis LEARN MORE. Alma Baron*, 82, is a volunteer percentage of people 65 and older DO MORE. in her community and a dedicated of the nation’s 10 largest cities. Our SHARE MORE. member of her church. She lives city’s elderly experience poverty at alone and often worries about how nearly double the rate of the elderly she can afford to heat her two-story in the rest of the nation. “It is vital to home due to her limited income. ensure that the fund remains open,” Last December, she was out of Lange said. home heating oil and in desperate Since the Emergency Fund was need of help. A counselor at her created in 1979, it has only had neighborhood senior center made to close down once due to lack of a referral to Philadelphia Corpora- funds, from April to December of tion for Aging’s (PCA’s) Emergency 2005. During that period, oil pric- Fund for Older Philadelphians on es spiked from an average of $1 to her behalf. As a result of help from iStock $2.16 per gallon, driven partially the fund, Baron received a delivery of 100 gal- by the impact of Hurricane Katrina. lons of oil to keep her warm during the cold However, Gallagher said PCA is planning for months. the worst this year, as predictions indicate This vital crisis assistance program for low- there will be an extremely cold winter, in- income Philadelphia seniors is now itself in creased demand for home heating assistance, crisis. The Emergency Fund, which provides and a rise in oil and other fuel costs. SM cash assistance to help low-income Philadel- PCA does not receive regular government INTERNET ESSENTIALS FROM phia seniors purchase food, fuel, medications funding to support the Emergency Fund and and other necessities, may have to shut down undertakes fundraising initiatives to address soon. As of late October, the fund had half the need. The fund relies on corporate and NO CONTRACT the amount as at the same time last year, ac- foundation giving, donations from individu- NO CREDIT CHECK als, and funds raised by the agencies that are cording to Chris Gallagher, director of PCA’s $ 95 NO INSTALLATION FEE members of the Emergency Fund Coalition, Helpline; who oversees fund distribution per month + tax IN-HOME WiFi INCLUDED This decrease is especially troubling going an alliance of more than 20 community- based social service organizations and service ACCESS TO 40 1-HOUR SESSIONS OF into the cold season, when demand for assis- 9 XFINITY WiFi HOTSPOTS EVERY 30 DAYS tance is highest. providers that coordinate fundraising efforts “You have no idea how much this helps,” for the Emergency Fund. Fundraising goes on Baron said. “I often have to choose which year-round. Internet Essentials gives you access to affordable, high-speed Internet. For information on corporate and founda- bills I am going to pay, so the assistance from You may qualify if you have at least one child who is eligible for the tion giving, call Joan Zaremba, PCA’s director the Emergency Fund was a huge relief. This National School Lunch Program or receive HUD housing assistance. program is truly a blessing.” of marketing and development, at 215-765- To compound the funding crisis, requests 9000, ext. 5051, or email Joan.Zaremba@ for help are increasing. “We saw the amount pcaCares.org. APPLY NOW disbursed jump by 18 percent this last year InternetEssentials.com over the previous year,” Gallagher said. A to- About the Emergency Fund The Emergency Fund provides emergency tal of $184,023 in emergency assistance was 1-855-8-INTERNET support for eligible low-income older Phila- provided between July 1, 2017 and June 30, delphians who have exhausted all other 2018 – an increase of nearly $28,000 from Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. Limited to Internet Essentials service resources. Referrals are accepted only from the previous year. This increase included a 26 for new residential customers meeting certain eligibility criteria. Advertised recognized social service agencies and the price applies to a single outlet. Actual speeds may vary and are not guaranteed. percent rise in referrals for home heating oil After initial participation in the Internet Essentials program, if a customer clergy, and payments are made directly to the assistance and a 51 percent increase in the to- is determined to be no longer eligible for the program and elects a different vendor. PCA administers the fund at no cost XFINITY Internet service, regular rates will apply to the selected Internet service. tal dollars spent on oil. Subject to Internet Essentials program terms and conditions. WiFi Hotspots: on behalf of the Emergency Fund Coalition “PCA has always placed the highest prior- Available in select locations. Requires compatible WiFi-enable laptop or mobile for Older Philadelphians. device. Limited to forty 60-minute sessions per 30-day period per person/ ity on caring for the most vulnerable older account. If session is terminated before 60 mins. remaining time expires. Philadelphians,” said Holly Lange, PCA’s Unused time does not carry over to subsequent sessions or 30 day periods. Not To learn how to donate to the Emergency responsible for lost data resulting from terminated Internet session or any other president and CEO. “The Emergency Fund Fund or for more information, call the PCA reason. A maximum of up to 10 devices may be registered to a single XFINITY does just that – helping impoverished seniors WiFi On Demand account. May not be combined with other offers. Call 1-855- Helpline at 215-765-9040; or visit pcaCares. 846-8376 for restrictions and complete details, or visit InternetEssentials.com. in crisis pay for critical needs when they have org/emergencyfund. © 2017 Comcast. All rights reserved. nowhere else to turn.” Lange also pointed out that Philadelphia has the second-highest *Name changed to protect confidentiality

CIE_Consumer ad_Diana_gray_4.875x10.indd 1 11/7/17 12:39 PM Milestones 6 November 2018

Caregiving Tips to help care for a cancer patient By Constance Garcia-Barrio

Among life’s storms, a cancer diagnosis hits Center. Caregivers can keep some things in like a hurricane. It can send shock waves not mind to help manage this difficult role. only through patients’ emotions, finances and relationships, but also through those Managing communication of caregivers. Some of us have faced or will Good communication assists the cancer face the dilemma of caring for someone with caregiver and patient in navigating this diffi- cancer – and cancer incidence increases with cult journey, Stevenson said. “It often helps if advancing age. a patient and caregiver set up a weekly check- Medical breakthroughs offer the promise in time,” he said. “That way, you avoid a situ- iStock of long-term recovery. Cancer now has a 69 ation where one person comes home from ask, ‘Do you think that what we’re doing now but during medical appointments. Caregiv- percent five-year survival rate, according to work exhausted, unable to have a quality dis- is working? If not, why don’t we try some- ers who are attuned to the patient may sense AARP’s “Helping to Care for a Loved One cussion, but the patient feels eager to talk. If thing different?’ The questions may provide a when he or she feels overwhelmed with in- with Cancer,” a free online guide for care- you have a pre-arranged time, both of you can much-needed opening.” He also encourages formation and ask questions on his or her givers available at .org/caregiving/care- feel rested and respected.” patients and caregivers to try journaling as a behalf. “Don’t be afraid to ask questions,” guides/cancer. But during treatment, much The stress of the illness can spotlight cracks way to express feelings. Stevenson said. “You’re not a physician, and rests on a caregiver’s shoulders. in a relationship, Stevenson finds. “Seek pro- Fear is often part of the picture, Stevenson not understanding some medical terms may “Caregivers may find themselves helping fessional help in that case,” he said. “Anyone notes. “It’s OK to have anxiety,” he said. “It leave you uneasy. The caregiver could also re- to make decisions about , money, can benefit from therapy, especially in such a doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with quest a summary of a visit to review it with- transportation and day-to-day issues,” said tough situation, but both people have to be you. Cancer impacts everyone so differently.” out pressure.” Matthew Stevenson, a licensed clinical social open and willing. If things have gotten rocky Radical changes in the caregiver’s activi- worker at Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer but one person’s still reluctant, you could ties and new limitations due to the loved Keep a bright outlook one’s needs may let anger creep in, Stevenson Accentuate the positive, the ACS recom- added. “Instead of aiming your anger at your mends. Caregivers can find satisfaction in partner or becoming self-critical, put the an- helping the patient, deepening the relation- ger on cancer,” he said. ship and meeting new friends through sup- port groups. Seeking help It’s also essential for both the caregiver and Caregivers can use the magic of “yes” to the cancer patient to have something to look lighten their load, therapists say. Make a list forward to. “Even things on the micro-level of chores and errands so that when friends of day-to-day make a difference,” Stevenson and family members ask if they can help, you said. “Are you anticipating your half-hour can give them concrete answers. For example, walk to unwind, a talk with a friend or an you may need someone to pick up grocer- éclair for dessert? For a weekly treat you may ies or medications, make meals or rake the want something more elaborate: a movie or leaves. a trip to your favorite restaurant. It refreshes In another spin on the strength-in-num- caregivers so that they have more to offer the bers theme, experts suggest joining a support patient.” group to benefit from others’ insights and to Trusted for coordination of services, including * * * feel less alone. Hospitals and the American JEVS goes above and beyond to ensure you in-home care, since 1984. Cancer Society (ACS) can connect you with The American Cancer Society’s helpline is have control over your choices and needs, your preferences are met, and services are other cancer caregivers. The ACS can also help available 24/7 at 800-227-2345 for informa- expertly tailored to meet those needs. You can count on us to assist you or your loved one. you arrange for meals and transportation and tion about many aspects of cancer caregiving. make suggestions about respite care that The website cancer.org offers information Free services for those eligible: would give you a break. and resources for both cancer patients and • Personalized plan for long-term services and supports The spiritual dimension may have a caregivers, including the downloadable free • Dedicated Supports Coordinator who is reliable and responsive place not only in healing the patient but in booklets “If You’re about to Become a Cancer • 24 hour, on-call supports strengthening the relationship as well, Ste- Caregiver” and “Listen with Your Heart: Talk- • Nursing home placement prevention planning and nursing home transition to home supports venson advises. “Caregivers and patients may ing with the Person who has Cancer.” take comfort in prayer, meditation and other www.jevshumanservices.org/Milestones religious activities,” he says. Native Philadelphian Constance Garcia-Barrio Serving Philadelphia & Area Counties • 215-960-9610 Caregivers can play a role not only at home writes about many topics, including black history.

Milestones 8 November 2018

Community HealthChoices is coming: Here is what you need to know As reported previously in Milestones, a major shift in the way Medicaid-fund- ed long-term services are provided in the home is coming to Southeast Pennsyl- vania – Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Mont- gomery and Philadelphia counties – in January. Community HealthChoices (CHC) is Pennsylvania’s mandatory managed care program for individuals dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid and people with physical disabilities. The program has already begun in the southwestern part of the state and will affect more than iStock 100,000 seniors or adults with disabili- Under Community HealthChoices, long-term services ties in the southeastern region. and supports such as personal care will be provided Under CHC, both physical health to many Pennsylvania seniors and people with dis- care and long-term services and supports abilities through managed-care organizations. (LTSS) – meaning home-based or nurs- ing-home care – will be coordinated through Individuals cannot be enrolled in CHC if For seniors, aging and staying independent three state-selected managed-care organizations they receive services beyond supports coordina- is not always simple. The Mercy LIFE services offered (MCOs): Keystone First CHC, Pennsylvania tion through the Office of Developmental Pro- Health & Wellness, and UPMC Community grams for an intellectual disability or autism. at home and in our adult day centers help seniors remain HealthChoices. CHC participants will have to Individuals who already participate in a Liv- independent, active, and healthy. choose one of these MCOs to coordinate their ing Independently for Elders (LIFE) program care. can remain in their LIFE program and will not • Staying as healthy as possible is easier with a team CHC has been developed to enhance access be moved into CHC unless they specifically ask to and improve the coordination of medical of medical professionals available 24 hours a day/7 days to be. Anyone who is enrolled in CHC who care and to create a person-driven, LTSS system would prefer to participate in a LIFE program a week. in which people have choice and control in and and qualifies for LIFE will be free to do so. access to a full array of services to support their • The Social Work team supports seniors as they maintain independence, health and quality of life. LTSS Coverage control of life's decisions and daily tasks while feeling help people perform “activities of daily living” CHC covers the same physical health ben- such as bathing, dressing, preparing meals and safe and fulfilled. efits that are part of the Medicaid Adult Ben- administering medications. efit Package. The aging, attendant care, inde- pendence and COMMCARE waivers will be • Our Certified Recreational Therapists offer a variety of Eligibility phased out with the implementation of CHC. Individuals are eligible for CHC if they are activities that promote physical movement and keep the The OBRA waiver will continue to cover people 21-plus and meet one of the following require- mind active & creative, while having fun with other seniors. ments: 18-20 who qualify for Medicaid LTSS and those • Receive both Medicare and Medicaid who have a severe developmental physical dis- No co-insurance, deductibles or payments due for services (known as “dually eligible”); ability and need an intermediate care facility or you receive. • Receive LTSS in the attendant care, indepen- other related conditions level of care. dence, COMMCARE or aging waivers (which Behavioral health and drug and alcohol ad- will be phased out with the implementation of diction treatment services are not a part of CHC Be Independent. Keep Active. Stay Healthy. CHC); and will be coordinated through a program That's LIFE! Call 215.339.4747 or visit mercylife.org • Receive LTSS in the OBRA waiver and are called HealthChoices Behavioral Health. The for more information. determined nursing-facility clinically eligible; CHC MCO must coordinate care with its mem- • Receive care in a nursing home paid for by bers’ HealthChoices Behavioral Health MCOs Medicaid; or and Medicare coverage. • Participate in an Act 150 program, which For more information about Community provides attendant care services for people who HealthChoices, see the Q&A article on the next are mentally alert but severely physically dis- page, go to healthchoices.pa.gov or call 1-833- 05-09891 abled, and are dually eligible. 735-4416.

Funded by PCA November 2018 Milestones 9

Community HealthChoices Q&A Community HealthChoices (CHC) is will work directly with Medicare providers Exceptional Care Pennsylvania’s mandatory managed-care pro- to coordinate your services. Questions about gram that will coordinate physician’s care and Medicare can be directed to the Apprise insur- in the Comfort of Your Home community-based services for many seniors ance counseling program at 800-783-7067. and people with disabilities. Anyone who is eligible for the program in Southeast Penn- How will CHC affect the in-home For Our Clients: For Our Caregivers: sylvania will transition into CHC on Jan. 1. care services I receive through • Bathing, dressing, • Competitive Wages Aging Well PA and Philadelphia Corporation PCA? During the first six months of 2019, known grooming, toileting • Medical/Dental/Life Benefi ts for Aging (PCA) held community meetings • Grocery shopping • Paid Time Off (PTO) throughout Philadelphia in recent months to as the “continuity of care period,” you will automatically keep the same service coordi- • Light exercise • Holiday pay at time & a half educate those affected. Here are some of the • Light housekeeping • Paid travel time between clients nation agency, which helps to manage a per- most commonly asked questions about CHC. • Meal preparation • Paid training son’s care. PCA provides service coordination (For more information about CHC, see the • Accompany to medical • Personal Protective Equipment and will work with all three managed-care or- article on page 8.) appointments • Discounts on scrubs & ganizations. If you wish to remain with PCA • Changing Linens/Laundry protective footwear Who is affected by CHC? as your service coordination provider, the • Community Integration • Reward & Recognition program CHC is for “dual-eligibles” (people who MCO of your choice can help you stay with • Respite • Flexible schedules are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid, PCA. • Companion Services commonly known as “Medical Assistance”); How do I enroll in CHC? • Assistance while families are anyone in aging, attendant care, indepen- out of town 24/7 On-Call First, consult the enrollment packet you Support Services dence, and COMMCARE waivers, which will • Holiday Helpers should have received in the mail. The packet be phased out; and people living in a nursing • Additional services by request explains CHC, provides information on the home that is paid for by Medicaid. Those eli- or per service plan Wellness & Home Safety three MCO health plans and benefits, and gible for CHC should have received an enroll- Visits by Staff Nurse ment packet in the mail. provides enrollment information. For more information or to select a plan, What is the purpose of CHC? you can call the CHC Enrollment Center Music & Memory The program’s intent is to help keep se- at 844-824-3655 (or TTY: 833-254-0690), Program niors at home, in the community, for as long weekdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., or go to the as possible and give them a better quality of website enrollchc.com. You can enroll by life by centralizing health and community- phone, email or mail using the information based services, known as long-term services and form included in your packet. and supports (LTSS). These are the services If you call the CHC Enrollment Center, a FREE Accepting: In-Home Services Assessment Medicaid, Private Pay, they currently receive under the state’s Aging representative will ask you about your current and most insurance plans Waiver and other waiver programs. providers and preferences. (It’s a good idea to make a list of your providers before calling.) What will change with CHC? Upon enrollment with your selected MCO, Anyone who is eligible for CHC will be you will receive materials from the MCO in required to choose one of three managed the mail, including an MCO participant iden- care organizations (MCOs) to coordinate tification card. their care: Keystone First CHC, Pennsylvania Health and Wellness, or UPMC Community What happens if I don’t select an HealthChoices. The chosen MCO will admin- MCO by the deadline? ister your Medical Assistance coverage, as well Anyone eligible for CHC must select an as oversee LTSS. MCO by the Nov. 15 deadline. If you do not enroll by the deadline, an MCO will be ini- Will CHC affect my Medicare tially assigned to you through a process called benefits? auto-enrollment. You can change your MCO Enrollment in CHC or the choice of an at any time, whether you selected it yourself MCO will not affect your Medicare coverage or were auto-enrolled. or benefits. Dual-eligibles can keep their ex- isting primary care physicians and will have Questions about CHC, including about all the same Medicare options, including eligibility, can be directed to the toll-free Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage CHC Participant Support Center at 1-833- www.jevsathome.org plans. Your Medicare plan will not change 735-4416. unless you decide to change it. The MCO 9350 Ashton Rd., Suite 102, Philadelphia, PA 19114 | 267.298.1325 November 2018 Lung and Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month National Family Caregivers Month

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY

DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME ENDS ELECTION DAY (Fall Back) 4 Conversations with the 5 6 Pennsylvania Ballet. Behind-the-scenes Town Hall on Eradicating Marginaliza- look at the ballet. Q&A with dancers. King Day of Service 2019 Planning tion: Violence Prevention & Economic Phila. City Institute. 215-685-6621. Workshop: Center City. 4 p.m. Urban Sustainability. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Juve- Medical Marijuana 101. 6 p.m. Fumo Affairs Coalition. 215-851-1806. nile Justice Center. 267-581-3963. Family Library. 215-685-1758.

VETERANS DAY (observed) 11 12 Getting a Leg Up on Deep Vein 13 Thrombosis & Varicose Veins. Noon. Veterans Day Family Festival. Veterans Great Poets & the Cultures that Shaped Medical Office Building at Jefferson. talks, letter writing stations, family- Them: Dante. 2 p.m. Parkway Central Register: 1-800-533-3669 friendly activities. 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Library. 215-686-5322. Workshop: Supercharge Your Care- National Constitution Center. 215-409- giving. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. PCA. Register: 6600. $ 215-765-9000, ext. 4391.

18 19 20 25th Philadelphia Marathon. Cheer Comforting Fall Side Dishes. Chef Town Hall Meeting: Bethel Burying on 30,000 runners at the start/finish Dolores demonstrates how to create Ground. Learn the history of this Events that end with a “$” require an line of this 26.2-mile race. 7 a.m. crowd-pleasing sides. 6 p.m. Fumo forgotten site & discuss its future. 6 p.m. entrance fee or advance ticket purchase. start. Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Free events may request donations or Family Library. 215-685-1758. Logan Library. 215-685-9156. Philadelphiamarathon.com. sell items. Please call the number listed for pricing or other details. Send your calendar items to: ATTN: Milestones Editor PCA, 642 N. Broad St., 25 26 27 Philadelphia, PA 19130 Google Search. Learn the basics of Phone: 215-765-9000, ext. 5081 Philadelphia Reads W.E.B. Du Bois: Rittenhouse Square Holiday Park search engines & internet research. Fax: 215-765-9066 ‘The Sorrow Songs.’ 2 p.m. Parkway Lighting. 5 p.m. Rittenhouse Square. 6 p.m. Bustleton Library. Register: 215- Email: Central Library. 215-686-5322. 267-586-5675. [email protected] 685-0472. Event submission deadline: 25th of the month for publication in month after next. National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month

THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

Lutheran Settlement House Open 1 2 House & Flea Market. 10 a.m. to 3 Legal & Financial Planning: A 2 p.m. Lutheran Settlement House Caregiver Seminar. Presented by the Healthy Cooking Workshop. 2 p.m. Senior Center. 215-426-8610, ext. 1204. Alzheimer’s Association. 5-7:30 p.m. Lucien Blackwell West Phila. Library. St. John Neumann Center. Register: I am Here: Creative & Therapeutic Register: 267-658-4148. 215-698-5656. Support for the Dementia Caregiver. 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Drexel University, Center City Campus. Register: 800-666- WEDNESDAY 7737. $

Family Health Fair. 4 p.m. South 7 8 9 LOVE Your Park Fall Service Day. 10 Phila. Library. 215-685-1866. Opening Day at Dilworth Park Various times & locations. Sponsored Great Poets & the Cultures that Shaped Healthy Aging Program. Keep your Wintergarden & Rothman Orthopae- by Fairmount Park Conservancy & Phila. Them: Geoffrey Chaucer. 11 a.m. Park- mind & body fit as you age. 9:30 a.m. dics Ice Rink. Noon. Dilworth Park. Parks & Rec. 215-607-3489, 215-683- way Central Library. 215-686-5322. Jefferson College of Pharmacy. Register: 215-440-5500. 3689, Loveyourpark.org. More Space in Your Place. 2 p.m. 800-533-3669. Veterans Breakfast. 9-11 a.m. Center in Philadelphia Flute Quartet. Concert of Lovett Memorial Library. Register: 215- the Park. Register: 215-848-7722. newly discovered pieces. 2 p.m. Parkway 386-2984. Central Library. 215-686-5322.

Becoming U.S.: Food & Culture. WORLD DIABETES DAY 14 6:30-8 p.m. Parkway Central 15 16 17 Library. 215-686-5322. $ Bake Sale. 9-11 a.m. Center in the Park. Food & Fun Fair. Celebrate Phila.’s 215-848-7722. Chestnut Hill Hospital Presents 2019 King Day of Service Planning ‘Healthy Bones for Life.’ 10 a.m. Center Workshop: South Philadelphia. 2 p.m. history & vibrant food culture. 10 a.m. Mystery of the Lost Battalion. Unravel in the Park. 215-848-7722. South Phila. Library. 215-851-1806. to 6 p.m. Historical Society of Pa. a World War I mystery. 6:30-8 p.m. 215-732-6200. $ Historical Society of Pa. 215-732-6200. $ Preventing Falls: Assessment, Safety & Management in Older Adults. 11 a.m. Ralston Center. Register: 215-386-2984.

THANKSGIVING 21 22 Opening Day at Blue Cross 23 24 Fiber Craft Group. Enjoy crafting River Rink Winterfest. 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. & conversation with fellow artists. 6:30 Saturday Crafternoons. An afternoon Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing. 215-922- p.m. Blanche A. Nixon/Cobbs Creek Thanksgiving Day Parade. 8:30 a.m. to of basic instruction, idea sharing & good 2386.215-763-8100. $ Library. 215-685-1973. noon. Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Also company. All experience levels welcome. Opening Day of Macy’s Light Show & Joint Replacement Class. 2 p.m. Penn televised. 6abc.com. 2 p.m. Fox Chase Library. 215-685-0547. Wanamaker Organ Concert. 10 a.m. Medicine, University City. 215-662-8000. Macy’s Center City. 215-241-9000.

28 29 30 Final day to redeem 2018 Senior Nutrition During Cancer Treatment. Know the 10 Signs of Alzheimer’s: Early Detection Matters. 11 am to Farmers Market Nutrition Program Noon. Cancer Support and Welcome produce vouchers. (Note: Vouchers are Center. Register: 215-955-1800. 12:30 p.m. Ralston Center. Register: 215-386-2984. no longer available.) Redemption infor- mation: 215-765-9040. Milestones 12 November 2018

Millenials caregivers and … they spend an average of said. “Becoming a caregiver at 32 was not that spark of my mom,” Crosley said. “She 21 hours a week caring for loved ones – the how my life was supposed to go, but I did just shut down and died.” • continued from page 4 equivalent of a part-time job. About one-fifth what it took. The experience taught me em- Roberts passed away in March. “I wish Crosley connected with Philadelphia Cor- of millennial caregivers devote 40 hours a pathy; it taught me patience.” things could have been different,” he said. “I poration for Aging (PCA) several years after week or more to such service, which amounts wish she did not get sick. I did everything I Roberts’ diagnosis. PCA assessors evaluated to a full-time job.” Difficult choices possibly could and that was a heck of a lot, his mother’s level of care needs and eligibil- Crosley’s jobs included working for the In January, after seven years of being an in- but I still wish I could have done more.” ity for services. A PCA service coordinator ar- Philadelphia Department of Licenses and home caregiver, Crosley placed his mother in Crosley is now in graduate school study- ranged for Roberts to have four hours of per- Inspections as a building inspector, and as a an assisted living facility that also provided ing labor relations. He and Seanna, whom he sonal care weekday afternoons. Crosley also pizza delivery man. He also operated his own dementia care. She had forgotten how to eat married in 2017, have established the DMR hired personal care aides privately to help rug-cleaning business. Each job gave him the and had become increasingly resistant and Foundation in memory of his mother. The with his mom’s morning and weekend care. flexibility to check in on his mom and attend belligerent to her caregivers. Her wandering foundation’s goal is to raise enough money Altogether, he was paying nearly $3,000 a to the crises that frequently occurred. “I had had increased, despite the extensive physical to fund eight hours of caregiving a week for month for his mother’s home care and medi- to come home almost every day to ‘put out barriers Crosley had put up at home and the one caregiver each year. A portion of the cal costs that were not covered by insurance. fires,’ like if she was fighting with her aide or fact that she was never alone there. At one funds raised through a golf tournament and He worked three part-time jobs to make ends wandered outside with the dog and was try- point, after she had escaped and police had other endeavors also will help fund Alzheim- meet. His fiancée, now wife, Seanna, worked ing to give the dog away,” he said. found her, she was dehydrated and had to be er’s research. out of town but helped whenever she could. Typically, the caregiver’s relationship to the hospitalized. Crosley stayed in the hospital As someone who has been there, Cros- care recipient will determine how the care- with her. ley hopes to provide advice and support to Financial burden giver responds to caregiving and the stress it He outfitted Roberts’ room at the assisted other Alzheimer’s caregivers through his lo- The burden of work and financial obliga- brings, according to Fredericka E. Waugh, as- living facility with furniture from home to cal Alzheimer’s Association chapter. “I know tions often compound the stress of millen- sociate director of diversity and inclusion for ease her transition, but she did not adjust what it is to walk down this path,” he said. “It nial caregivers. A recent AARP Public Policy the Alzheimer’s Association well, he said. She was temporarily placed in is not for the faint of heart.” Institute report, “Millennials: The Emerging Chapter. For Crosley, taking on the responsi- the psychiatric unit of another local hospital, Generation of Family Caregivers,” found that bility of caring for his mother was something where she was heavily medicated. Following “73 percent of millennial caregivers are em- he did lovingly. “She worked and sacrificed that hospitalization, she returned to the as- Marcia Z. Siegal is public relations manager for ployed, more than any other generation of so much for me when I was growing up,” he sisted living facility. “But she no longer had Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA). FUNERALS COST MORE THAN YOU MIGHT THINK … Today, the average cost of a funeral is over $8,500*

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Caregiving The soothing powers of oatmeal By Sally Friedman ing which I subsisted on saltines and straw- berry jelly. She struggled to tempt me with I recently was given a recipe for a hearty other foods, but I stubbornly refused. One meatloaf that included a half-cup of oatmeal day, I’d tried to offer the Breyer’s vanilla ice among its ingredients. I realized that I hadn’t cream, which she had loved all her life, then a had oatmeal in the house for years, so off I small dish of mashed potatoes and even just went to get some. a quarter-slice of bread – and she had refused The moment my hands reached for it on them all. I went into her bathroom and cried. the supermarket shelf, a whole And when I composed myself, rush of feelings almost overcame and did one more search of Mom’s me. That familiar carton of Quak- kitchen cabinets, I spotted it: that er oats carried me right back to my familiar carton of oatmeal that al- mother’s apartment in a Philadel- ways had been in our home when phia high-rise. I was a child. It was in my home I’d almost forgotten oatmeal’s when I had children and was kept place in my life – and hers – un- in this very kitchen, perhaps, just in til that moment. Suddenly, 12 case a great-grandchild came to visit years vanished, and I was back in on a cold winter day. Mom’s apartment, watching help- Such hope resided in that simple lessly as a marauder called lym- box. This time, I didn’t ask. I just iStock phoma changed everything. Mom went to the stove and began making had faced it a few years earlier, when she had one of life’s simplest pleasures, ignoring the seemed to conquer it. And then it was back. microwave option. No, it had to be oatmeal She was an amazing little warrior. But this bubbling on the burner. time, my tiny, 97-year-old mother was clear- I looked for the nicest bowl I could find ly losing the battle. Most of her hours were in this kitchen, where such niceties were no spent in her yellow and white bedroom, with longer considered very important. I spotted a occasional friends stopping by for short visits. lovely, little white bowl with flowers around My sister and I were the monitors who de- the rim, a relic from my old home. termined whether Mom could even handle I picked up that bowl and held it close it those well-meaning visits. to my heart. Fond memories surfaced of a Our caregiving was intense, painful and steamy kitchen on a wintry day, and of Mom’s fraught with tension. But it also was supple- loving gesture: a sprinkle of cinnamon went into that oatmeal along with some sugar. mented by the “angels,” as we called them, It seemed centuries ago – and yesterday. of The Visiting Nurse Association of Greater On that morning, this one with medicines Philadelphia’s hospice team. Could we have lined up like sentries, I pulled up a chair close done that caring without them? Probably not. to the hospital bed my mother now occupied. These angels offered not just physical sup- “How about some oatmeal?” I asked, try- port, but emotional support as well. We be- ing so hard for nonchalance. came a caregiving team, a kind of support Those weary half-closed eyes opened wider, group for Mom – and in unexpected ways, for and a smile momentarily lit up my mother’s one another. face. “Yes,” she said. When you spend so much intense time As the rest of the world outside this room with anyone, connections build. It’s easier felt turned, a daughter fed her dying mother than explained. spoonfuls of warm oatmeal — slowly, pains- One of the problems, as the wonderful doc- takingly and lovingly — until the bowl was tor who had cared for Mom had correctly pre- almost empty. dicted, was her total lack of appetite. Nothing “Delicious,” Mom said. It was the last word appealed to her, including foods that she had I ever heard my mother say, and the last food once loved — soft-boiled eggs, chicken soup she ever ate. and Jell-O. I remember how Mom once had gotten Sally Friedman has written for the New York me through a childhood food rebellion dur- Times and other publications. Milestones 14 November 2018

Dementia • continued from page 1 one else, start with your general practitio- ner,” he said. “It may result in correction of fluid intelligence declines and this decline a medical problem or referral to a specialist.” can get in the way with making decisions, but Karlawish recommends that people who have not with the kind of severity seen in a person a memory problem go to the doctor with with dementia. someone who knows them well, such as an Normal aging means being forgetful at adult child, close friend or partner. “This per- times. “Everyone is forgetful,” said McKay. son can help to add information about how “Normal aging is forgetting to send an email the person is doing,” he said. but remembering it later or recalling it when it’s mentioned.” Factors such as stressors and Alzheimer’s disease diet can impact memory and mental “sharp- Alzheimer’s disease accounts for about 60 ness,” or acuity, which includes focus, con- percent of dementia cases, according to the centration and understanding. Alzheimer’s Association. Alzheimer’s is dif- The terms “dementia” and “Alzheimer’s” ferent from other types of dementia. “The are often used interchangeably, but they are disease progression is very subtle over stag- not the same. Dementia is a term that de- es,” McKay said. “It’s a very slow and steady scribes a syndrome caused by any number of iStock Dementia is not occasional forgetfulness or a normal part of aging. It is a disabling condition decline over an eight- to 10-year life span of different diseases, most commonly Alzheim- that should be diagnosed by a doctor. the disease. It’s characteristic to have memory er’s disease. loss as its primary and first-recognized symp- Dementia indicates a decline in the ability It’s important to note that dementia is not Causes tom.” to display cognitive behaviors, which can in- a sudden change in memory or ability. “If Alzheimer’s disease is the most common There is no cure for Alzheimer’s. Fear of clude memory, language, attention, concen- someone has experienced noticeable cogni- cause of dementia. It is called a “neurode- the disease and its effects may contribute to tration, multi-tasking, problem solving and tive changes that are interfering with daily life generative disease,” meaning that neurons, a delay in seeking diagnosis. “We have drugs visual function. “In someone with dementia, over the last several days or even a few weeks, the cells in the brain, are dying. Other neu- that can treat the symptoms,” Karlawish said. at least two of these cognitive abilities are that’s not dementia,” Karlawish said. “That’s a rodegenerative diseases include lewy body “Putting a name on the problem is the first impaired to the point that they are getting in medical emergency.” dementia and Parkinson’s disease; the latter step towards making sense of it and dealing the way of doing daily tasks,” he said. That’s There are several medical conditions that starts out as a movement disorder but can may mimic dementia. Complaints about with it. An early diagnosis is important be- a serious concern, well beyond walking into a develop into dementia. Vascular disease can memory being a problem and lack of initia- cause the patient is suffering.” Someone with room and forgetting why you came in, then cause vascular dementia, in which the brain is tive are reported in people with both demen- Alzheimer’s is at risk of having an automobile remembering it a few minutes later. damaged from impaired blood flow. tia and depression. Certain medications and accident, getting lost in a familiar area, be- “People misplace things, but they are usu- Traumatic brain injury, which results from urinary tract infections can also cause behav- coming dehydrated from forgetting to drink ally able to trace their steps backwards to find an impact to the head that disrupts normal ioral or cognitive changes that resemble de- water, or becoming a victim of a scam or them,” McKay said. “Someone with dementia brain function, also can lead to dementia. “It mentia. crime. “While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, would put things in unusual places, such as may be something that only happens once, Someone with dementia has typically ex- there are other causes of dementia that can be leaving their car keys in the refrigerator.” then that person is really impacted by it for perienced at least six months of decline in treated,” McKay said. “It’s important to not be Signs of a cognitive decline that might be the rest of their life,” McKay said. Chronic cognitive ability to the point that it interferes afraid. I urge people not to be despondent. indicative of dementia can include a senior traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), which re- with usual tasks, according to Karlawish. There is help out there.” asking repetitious questions or telling the sults from continuous trauma to the brain, same story over and over again in the same These tasks can include managing money, The Alzheimer’s Association Helpline is is another cause of dementia. “We’re seeing conversation without providing new infor- cooking a meal, finding their way around, staffed by trained clinicians 24/7, 365 days it more and more with former athletes, like mation. Difficulty identifying the day of or using a TV remote control, assuming the a week, at alz.org or 800-272-3900. “We’re football players, who have repeated concus- the week, managing money or medicines, person used to perform these tasks without here to provide support,” McKay said. The sions and damage to the brain,” McKay said or cooking are also signs of a cognitive de- a problem. “Someone with dementia won’t helpline refers callers to clinicians, support of CTE. cline. “Dementia is not being able to retain bake anymore, or they tried to bake and it groups and legal and financial experts. The Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a fairly adequate short-term memory,” McKay said. wasn’t as good as before,” Karlawish said. helpline can also provide information and uncommon form of dementia, according to “Dementia is like hearing the information “They keep on having trouble using their locations for memory cafés — organized Karlawish. In FTD, the frontal and temporal anew each time.” computer, but they were fine before. They gatherings where people with memory loss struggle to find their way around. These are lobes of the brain — the areas associated with and their care companions come together signs that suggest dementia.” personality, behavior and language — shrink Dementia to make new friendships and support one Drastic changes in a person’s mood or per- or atrophy, causing dramatic changes in be- Dementia is not just occasional forgetful- another. “It’s a one-stop-shop for up-to-date sonality over time may also signal dementia. havior. This disease often occurs in people ness or a “senior moment.” It is disabling resources and information,” McKay said. “At “Your personality doesn’t really change over 40-45, much younger than Alzheimer’s is memory loss, as well as loss of cognitive func- the core of what we do is to help and support tion, according to Karlawish. “Mild memory time,” McKay said. “It’s a tell-tale sign when typically diagnosed, according to the Mayo people within the community. We don’t want loss that takes a person longer to get through someone has a favorite hobby, and they just Clinic. people hiding in the shadows. Life is not over daily activities is not dementia,” he said. regress from that. Your personality is set. There are a host of causes for dementia, with dementia.” “Someone with dementia will not perform When someone becomes aggressive, overly beyond those mentioned here. According to well on memory tests but will also leave pots emotional or ‘just different,’ it’s probably Karlawish, a good clinician can sort it out. “If on the stove.” time to see a doctor.” you are concerned about yourself or some- Alicia M. Colombo is editor of Milestones. The Power of Choice. Your Home Care, Your Way “I can enjoy theI c luxury of living in the community with access to care whenever I need it.” -Ricardo

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Resources for seniors Senior caregivers raising children • continued from page 1 Caregiver support program provides resources, assistance If you are a senior raising your grand- Roberts, whose grandchildren and great- Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) supports adults who are caring for others. The child or other young family member, the grandchildren call her “G” or “G-G.” “I’ve got- Caregiver Support Program helps income-eligible caregivers who provide routine care for a ten a whole lot of satisfaction.” following programs and services may be senior or child. To qualify, caregivers must be 18-plus and care for a functionally impaired She also is getting help through a Philadel- able to help you. adult 60-plus, 55-plus and care for someone 19-59 with a disability or dementia, or 55-plus phia Corporation for Aging (PCA) program and care for a child who is a relative. (See article on this page.) Philadelphia Corporation for Ag- that supports grandparents and other older ing’s Caregiver Support Program relative caregivers. PCA’s Caregiver Support Services and supports include: (CSP) provides financial reimbursement Program (CSP) provides assistance to people • Care management including evaluation, a support plan and connection to services and connection to resources for seniors 55-plus who are caring for a relative under 18 • Reimbursement for caregiving services and supplies, including home modifications, personal or adult day care, and counseling. Support is provided based on household raising young relatives or providing care who is not their biological child. The program income. helps older caregivers navigate educational, to an elder. (See information on pages 1 • Caregiver education and training counseling, legal and other services to help and 16.) To apply, call the PCA Helpline • Information and referral to access caregiving services and supports at 215-765-9040 or go to pcaCares.org/ them care for a child. In addition, it provides For more information about any of PCA’s programs to support caregivers, call the PCA caregivers. financial reimbursement for services such as day care or caregiver respite, tutoring, extracur- Helpline at 215-765-9040 or go to pcaCares.org/caregivers. Grands As Parents Inc. (GAP) pro- ricular activities, school supplies, counseling vides information and referral for legal, on benefits and entitlements for which care- housing, food and clothing resources; a givers and children may qualify, and caregiver grandmother. “When he was a little boy, I took Philadelphia home for Thanksgiving. Many grandparent support group; advice on education and training. (For more informa- him to Sunday school,” Roberts said. “Now family members were slated to bring dishes accessing health and mental health ser- tion see box above right.) he takes me to church. I use a walker … He’ll they made according to family traditions she vices for children; and educational and With funds from CSP, Roberts is able to ac- walk with me, go to be with his friends at Sun- has passed on, like her potato salad and can- cultural trips for children. For more in- cess emotional support and help paying for day school, and then come get me to walk died yams and the macaroni and cheese dish formation, go to 2227 N. Broad St., call child-rearing expenses. CSP pays for her to par- me home. He’ll make breakfast and bring it Roberts learned to make from her mother. 215-236-5848 or email grandsaspar- ticipate in a weekly telephone support group upstairs to me. Other times, he’ll say, ‘G, I’m “I’ve raised so many kids,” Roberts said. She [email protected]. for older caregivers offered through SOWN. going to the store; do you want anything?’ Or offers this perspective to a new grandparent, Roberts has taken part in the support group if he buys himself a water ice, he’ll bring one great-grandparent or other older relative who Grand Central Inc., Philadelphia’s for years and said it has been invaluable. “It’s home for me too. He’s always looking out for is taking on raising a child: “If I can do it, you kinship care resource center, brings to- so nice to get on the phone and talk and reach me.” can do it. Every day is not going to be sunny, gether agencies, family members and out this way,” she said. “We talk about the chil- Roberts has been the mainstay of her fam- but together, all the good days far outweigh community leaders to serve those caring dren, what the problems are… No matter what ily since she was widowed at 33. She came to the hard ones. We’re all in this for the same for others’ children. For more informa- concerns people have, other people have ideas Philadelphia from Charleston, South Carolina, reason – so we can help these children with tion, go to 1211 Chestnut St., Ste. 200; and suggestions.” with five children to be near her sister and what they need.” call 215-557-1554; or email grandcen- She also receives help through CSP to pay brother, who lived here. “I made a new life and [email protected]. for Hydir’s school supplies and his weekly mu- did what I had to do,” she said. She worked Marcia Z. Siegal is public relations manager for SOWN GrandFamily Resource sic lessons at Settlement Music School, where for a time as a nursing assistant at a residential Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA). Center provides crisis intervention, he studies percussion. facility for people with disabilities. support groups, counseling, informa- Roberts helps Hydir with his homework After raising many of her grandchildren tion and referral, parenting education, and attends parent-teacher conferences and and great-grandchildren, Roberts has created Crossword puzzle solution other events at his school. Nonetheless, she a family that now serves as a strong support health and fitness programs, advocacy, (See page 19 for clues.) said, “the main thing Hydir gets from me is system for her. One or more of the adult chil- and opportunities to mentor other love and attention.” dren she raised check in each morning and grandparent caregivers. For more infor- She encourages him to confide in her. “Ev- evening on her and Hydir. They help provide mation, call 215-487-3000, email info@ ery morning I tell him, ‘Have a good day,’ and meals, assist with shopping and take Hydir on sown.org or visit sown.org. every day when he comes home, I ask him outings with relatives his age. Granddaughter Temple University College of Edu- ‘How was your day?’” Roberts said. “I tell Hy- Kiki helps Hydir with his math homework and cation Family Friends program serves dir there’s nothing that’s too bad or too good attends his school events when G is unable to. eligible kinship caregiving households that we can’t talk about it.” All the family’s generations still seek Rob- and families with special needs citywide Hydir said that he and “G” have a strong, erts’ advice on matters big and small. “I just with in-home and community visits, unbreakable bond. No matter what the issue, love them all,” Roberts said of her 70 liv- mentoring, resources and information, “she knows all the answers and is always cool- ing descendants, including five children, 13 and free or low-cost, chaperoned respite headed,” Hydir said. grandchildren, 50 great-grandchildren and Now that he’s a teen, Hydir is able to re- trips for enrolled families. For more in- two great-great-grandchildren. ciprocate Roberts’ care by helping his great- She expected a large gathering at her North formation, call 215-204-0266. November 2018 Milestones 17 Milestones 18 November 2018

SENIOR CENTER SPOTLIGHT Journey’s Way isn’t just part of the community; it is the community

By Michael Hanisco

Karen Rouse wants people to think a little differently about how they view senior commu- nity centers. After serving in vari- ous roles at centers across the city for three decades, she is now the director at Journey’s Way, a senior center serving adults 55-plus at the corner of Rector and Pechin Now also streets in Roxborough. serving Bucks & “The senior center is the com- munity; it’s not a separate part Montgomery just for older people,” Rouse said. counties! It’s that attitude that has al- lowed her to develop partner- ships with a wide array of com- munity members during her time at Journey’s Way, something she sees as a point of pride for the center. “We do a lot of intergenera- tional programming,” she said. “We’ve developed partnerships with nursing schools and with a high school in the neighbor- Michael Hanisco hood; we work with churches, Signs outside of Journey’s Way, a senior center in the art center, and the weaving Roxborough, welcome seniors for connecting, learning guild. I’m going to be develop- and growing. ing some dance programs with Merge Studio. We do a lot of work bringing three little rooms,” Rouse said. the community in and also offering our build- The newer center features two stories and ing so that they can use it.” contains rooms of various sizes, offering Rouse explained that Journey’s Way opens enough space for large gatherings and more its doors to a number of organizations that are intimate sessions to occur simultaneously. in need of meeting space. The local historical “The building has really helped Journey’s society, the Soroptomists — a women’s volun- Way develop into a center that can really pro- teer and empowerment group — and even the vide something for everybody,” Rouse said. “It Philadelphia police have used the building for has enabled us to handle different kinds of regular meetings. programming. We’re able to accommodate a Rouse credits the converted church that wide range of interests and activity levels.” houses Journey’s Way as a major asset in court- On a recent Monday, the center was a hub ing community relationships. The spacious of activity, hosting a meditation class down- accommodations offer an advantage over stairs while a dozen seniors participated in a the much smaller space five blocks away that workout on the second level. Down the hall housed the center until a move in 2009. through a breezeway on the first floor, others “Everything was clumped together in two or • continued on page 19 November 2018 Milestones 19

Journey’s Way Crossword Solution • continued from page 18 The solution can be found on page 16. enjoyed a light breakfast in a large dining area favorite form of exercise, due to health com- Independence that features a state-of-the-art kitchen. plications. She visits Journey’s Way almost That activity level is typical, according to daily, interacting with other members and Across Down Rouse. participating in activities such as arts and crafts 1 Conflicts 41 A singing 1 Fortnight units 34 Kiddie conveyor “I think you feel energy when you walk in classes and games. Seated in front of a jigsaw 5 Wanders Washington 2 Courtyards 35 Hold sway here,” she said. However, she is quick to point puzzle that depicts a mouse running up a ful- 10 Stunner 43 Aural 3 Weather warning 36 This: Sp. 14 Coup d‘___ 44 Wedding site 4 Bachelors 37 Flags out that it’s not an exclusionary energy based ly-functioning clock — a project that took her 15 Bay 46 Patriots 5 Succeed 38 Memorable mime on one’s level of physical activity. months to complete — Katz spoke highly of 16 Aka Charles 48 Doubly nasty 6 Aware 42 Broadway beauty “We have folks that use a walker; we have the center, its members, and the unique pro- Lamb 50 Carter’s catcher 7 Winglike 45 Arikara gramming that makes members welcome, no folks that are in their 90s. We have folks that 17 Silkworm 51 Obscure 8 Blend 47 Holy Roman have some physical challenges. We offer some- matter their level of physical activity. Though 18 Gaze 53 Dependence 9 Toughens emperor thing for everyone.” she now only cooks at home on special occa- 19 NC cape 58 Joke response 10 1776 player 49 Connect anew Susie Lada exudes the energy that Rouse sions, she is particularly fond of the healthy 20 Hanoverian 61 Bang-up 11 Fridge item 52 ___ Arenas, Chile spoke about. The spry and energetic former cooking demonstrations that are a part of the heavy in holiday 12 Ananias 54 Archaeologist’s site kindergarten teacher joined Journey’s Way regular programming at Journey’s Way. America 65 Not under 13 Vetch, e.g. 55 Citylike back when it existed at its previous location. In explaining why the concept of commu- 22 Chichi’s alert 66 Love Story star 21 Mongolian 56 Cudgel The difference in programing between then nity is so important to the center’s mission, 23 Dictum 67 Building beam wasteland 57 Babe Ruth’s and now is night and day, she said. Rouse alluded to its name. “Journey’s Way” 24 Or follower 68 Meathead 25 Hydro resort, e.g. number Now there aren’t enough hours in the day was chosen to challenge outdated perceptions 26 Silent star 69 Pilot Balbo 27 Tack on 58 Edge 30 Feast 70 Church area 28 Check 59 Maintain to fit in all of her favorite activities. She partici- of senior centers and focus on the positive as- 34 10 Down, e.g. 71 Love god 29 Indochinese 60 Sandwich pates in Silver Sneakers, tai chi, line dancing pects of aging, she said. 39 Met’s rival 72 Pro- region 62 Conduct “Aging is a pathway. Everyone is on a jour- and the center’s “News and Views” discussion 40 Fall color consumerite 31 Ms. Kett 63 Dink Stover’s ney of lifelong possibilities,” Rouse explained. group, among other activities. She also volun- 73 Dirk 32 Seed envelope school teers at the center, offering a helping hand to 33 Gooden and 64 Doña played by the small staff. Journey’s Way, located at 403 Rector Erving Signoret “The center changed my life,” Lada said dur- Street in Northwest Philadelphia, is open ing a rare break in her morning routine. “I got weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For bored of TV and reading at home. Most of the information, call 215-487-1750 or go to friends that I have now, I’ve met through Jour- intercommunityaction.org/aging-services. ney’s Way.” Looking up for a moment from her morn- ing crossword puzzle, Patricia Katz explained Michael Hanisco is multimedia communica- that she comes to Journey’s Way mainly “to tions specialist at Philadelphia Corporation for play.” She can no longer swim, which was her Aging (PCA).

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