Pg. 5 - Sailing Adventure n Pgs. 12 & 13 - Game Pages Pg. 18 - Understanding Social Security n Pg. 21 - Ask the Vet PAGE PAGE PAGE 5 10 19 MARCH | APRIL 2019 n WHAT’S INSIDE THIS ISSUE 5 Our Sailing Adventure 8 You Are Still Strong 13 Handkerchiefs Remembered 18 Understanding Social 21 Ask the Vet: Euthanasia by Karen Kania by Michelle Jackson by Rolina Vermeer Security Disability Benefi ts by Dr. Eric Peterson by Vonda VanTil 6 Traveler Tales: Germany 10 Maybe That’s a Good Thing 14 Conquering Arthritis: Part II 22 Fire Safety, Part II by Jay Newmarch by Helen Towne by Holly Lookabaugh-Deur 19 What’s Brewing by Christine Wistrom by Joel Dulyea 7 What I Have Learned from 11 Ask the Provider - 16 Family Fun in Grand Rapids 22 Healthy Living 20 Book Review: the Other Side A Primer on Strokes 17 Trinkets from the Past 23 An American Poet When Breath Becomes Air by Kendra Schumaker by Christopher Goshgarian, MD by Jerry Mattson by Dick Hoffstedt by Curtis Freed, MA, BCC 8 Don’t Be Tricked by Malware 12 Game Page 18 Social Security Q & A by Regina Salmi by Vonda VanTil

EDITOR & PUBLISHER WRITERS MEMBER OF Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan Christine Wistrom Information & Assistance Dick Hoffstedt Dr. Eric Peterson (616) 456-5664 or (888) 456-5664 Dr. Gerald Harriman Michelle Jackson [email protected] | (fax) (616) 456-5692 Karen Kania website: www.aaawm.org Dr. Joel Phillips MEMBER OF Mission: Michelle Fields Holly Lookabaugh -Deur Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan’s 231-733-3523 Jerry Mattson [email protected] Joel Dulyea mission is to provide older persons and persons [email protected] Kendra Schumaker with a disability an array of services designed Jay Newmarch to promote independence and dignity in their Regina Salmi homes and their communities. Sarah Willink Vonda VanTil To advertise in an upcoming Rolina Vermeer GRAPHIC DESIGN Senior Perspectives publications, Jay Newmarch contact: CRE8 Design, LLC 269-345-8845 Michelle Fields [email protected] Editor of the Senior Perspectives COPY EDITOR (231) 733-3523 [email protected] Bonnie Borgeson

COVER PHOTOGRAPHER No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise Glenn Rutgers reproduced without written permission from the publisher. softglowdigital.comON THE COVER: [email protected] Rutgers softglowdigital.com Did you know that Senior Perspectives has a Facebook page? [email protected] Like us! www.facebook.com/SeniorPerspectives

SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY 2 MARCH | APRIL 2019 Jackie O’Connor, Executive Director

AREA AGENCY ON AGING OF WESTERN MICHIGAN BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Bill Routley ...... Chair Marilyn Burns ...... Vice Chair Don Black ...... Treasurer Richard Karns ...... Secretary Carol Hennessy ...... Member-at-Large Robert Sundholm ...... Advisory Council Chair REPRESENTATION Don Black ...... Allegan Elected Offi cial Stuart Peet ...... Allegan Consumer Larry Tiejema ...... Ionia Elected Offi cial Dennis Sitzer ...... Ionia Consumer Carol Hennessy ...... Kent Elected Offi cial Nancy Nielsen ...... Kent Consumer Betty Dermyer...... Lake Elected Offi cial Marilyn Burns ...... Lake Consumer Gary Castonia ...... Mason Elected Offi cial Patsy Hagerman ...... Mason Consumer Bill Routley ...... Mecosta Elected Offi cial Sharon Bongard ...... Mecosta Consumer John Johansen ...... Montcalm Elected Offi cial Linda Weger ...... Montcalm Consumer Vern Willett ...... Newaygo Elected Offi cial Cindy LaBelle ...... Newaygo Consumer Page # where you found Larry Emig ...... Osceola elected Offi cial Sponsored by Richard Karns ...... Osceola Consumer the potted daffodil Kurt Reppart ...... Grand Rapids Elected Offi cial Jane DeVries...... Grand Rapids Consumer Name ______AAAWM ADVISORY COUNCIL Address ______Thomas Peelle ...... Allegan County I Spy Natalie Van Houten ...... Allegan County City ______Norma Kilpatrick ...... Ionia County State ______Zip ______Kenneth Thompson...... Ionia County It’s easy! F. Rob Deane MD ...... Kent County Simply fi nd this Phone ______Harold Mast ...... Kent County Keith Vandercook ...... City of Grand Rapids potted daffodil in this Nellie Blue ...... Lake County edition. List where you Nicolette McClure ...... Lake County spotted it, clip and return this Robert Sundholm ...... Mason County form for the chance to win Mary Bechaz ...... Mecosta County $ Jerrilynn Strong ...... Mecosta County a 20.00 gift card to Meijer! Tim Reno ...... Montcalm County Ben Witbrodt ...... Montcalm County Adele Hansen ...... Newaygo County Return to: Senior Perspectives, I Spy, 560 Seminole Rd., Muskegon, MI 49444 Elsie Plank ...... Newaygo County Barbara Hazlett ...... Osceola County LAST WINNER: LILLIAN BOSSCHER OF LOWELL Mary Lou Proefrock ...... Osceola County Priscilla Kimboko Ph.D...... Grand Valley State University The snow globe was found on page 16 in butterfl y exhibit story.

MARCH | APRIL 2019 3 SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY 4 MARCH | APRIL 2019 Our Sailing Adventure “The ideal cruise requires a good ship, pleasant company, and a strange coast with plenty of islands and rocks.” – Humphrey Barton

Peg and I were planning a vacation. Because travel is “our thing,” we often receive brochures advertising adventures OR would you like to know about for consideration. A magazine from Lindblad Expeditions- the ports of call? The stops along the National Geographic caught my eye. Within minutes of Dalmatian Coast? The town of Hvar browsing through the pages, I said to Peg: “I do not care in Croatia where lavender abounds. which trip we take but I want to be on this ship!” and point- The island of Korcula where we ed to a picture of the Sea Cloud. A four-masted, hand sailed enjoyed a performance of Moreska tall ship, the Sea Cloud combined elegance with adventure. BY sword dancing complete with a call KAREN for a bandage! Dubrovnik, a UNES- Built for E.F. Hutton and Marjorie Post, the vessel has quite KANIA CO World Heritage Site, with a city a history. On this sailboat, built primarily for Marjorie with wall that is often steep and narrow Marjorie’s money (think but so worth the climb. Post cereals), the family es- caped day to day life with a Montenegro, Black Mountain, crew that well outnumbered provided a sightseeing drive of 25 the family of three. As his- serpentine switchbacks with a view tory unfolded, the Sea Cloud of the fjord and town be- was completely redone and low. Then Albania with a served her country in the tour of a castle, museums war. Returned to the fam- and a medieval market ily, it once again sailed for that included treasures pleasure and ultimately was from the Ottoman and enhanced to become avail- Communist periods. Fi- able for vacation excursions. nally, Greece. Ithaca and My job was done. I had Olympia. Homer’s hero picked the ship! Odysseus from the 9th or 8th century BC might Peg was up to the challenge of selecting the itinerary and soon we were on the be a familiar character phone with Lindblad booking a room on the June trip on the Dalmation Coast. to those who recall their Now, I am challenged by what to share. Should I describe for you the casual high school literature elegance of life on board the Sea Cloud? The food. The baked goods that were cre- studies. Archaeological digs unearthed remains that are locally known as the ated in the kitchen every night to serve the next day. The seafood that was “na- Castle of Odysseus. Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games where one tive” to the area. The vast array of salads and fruits and cheeses and...and...and... can run—or walk—the same fi eld as the fi rst Olympic athletes and see the spot kicking the defi nition of “gourmet” up a notch. The stateroom with comfortable where the Olympic torch is lit before the journey to the games today. beds, fi rst class amenities, an ice bucket that always had ice, a fruit tray that was A great ship! Fantastic company! and a beautiful coast! Humphrey Barton would enhanced by chocolate in the evening. Piano music at every meal. Interesting have no complaints about this more than ideal expedition! presentations by experts on the expedition staff. And the best entertainment of all: the sailors! An unbelievable performance lashing and unlashing the sails of Karen Kania is a retired teacher, attorney, and business person. She and her spouse, Peg, this tall ship! enjoy travel, good food, top shelf beverages and the company of oh, so many friends!

MARCH | APRIL 2019 5 SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY vote a good portion of the day. The pal- Traveler Tales ace and gardens are immense, but well worth the time. A marvel of design and royal function, it is a sight to behold. The East to West through elaborate entry and staircase, with an 180 degree fresco by Tiepolo, will leave you mesmerized for a good long time. the Heart of Germany Our guide also shared information about how the palace was saved for us to view Traveling south of Berlin, Germany, the apartment buildings, of those on that day in October. During the fi nal you enter a whole different world. I saw when I travelled to Russia days of World War II, industrial cities You leave behind the cosmopolitan many years ago. such as Wurzburg were being heavily for a slower pace and more historic bombed by the U.S. and Great Britain. Highlights of Dresden include the look at Germany. Our fi rst stop was Germans raced to dismantle as much town square, the Frauenkirsche Dresden, just 100 miles from Berlin, of the interior of the palace as possible church in the square, Zwinger pal- but a world away in feel and style. and get it out of the city. Amazingly the ace and museum, palace stood strong through the bombing, only the BY You are immediately struck by the Bruhlsche Terrace wooden roof was engulfed in fl ame. Thanks to the JAY beautiful architecture which for me, on the Elbe River, quick evacuation of doors, carvings, furniture and NEWMARCH was cause for confusion. I remember as well as the old tapestry, all was able to be restored after the war. This reading about the allied strikes on Catholic church is a don’t miss! Dresden during World War II. Hadn’t I heard about near and royal resi- total destruction of this old world city? How was it possible dence. While we Our next stop was Heidelberg, a historic town in that I was looking at old churches and palaces? spent a little over southwest Germany on the Neckar River. We arrived a day, you could in mid afternoon and settled into our hotel before Another thing that you’ll notice is also the answer to my spend much more going exploring. The city center is home to the longest previous questions. When looking upon these structures, time and take in pedestrian mall in Europe. It is a walking person’s you’ll notice a rich earth colored tan brick right next to more sites further from the city center. wonder. We enjoyed wandering through Heidelberg enjoy- one that is a dark grayish black. This mix ing the architecture, shops and people watching. And, you of colors is actually old and new mixed From Dresden, we traveled southwest won’t go hungry, there is an array of restaurants for you to together. to our next stop in Wurzburg. Here you choose from as you stroll through town, many with tables see the hills and valleys associated with After the war, the city truly was reduced right out on the mall. Bavaria, situated in the heart of wine to rubble. As Dresden was a main indus- country. We were even greeted with a High above Heidelberg in the Odenwald Mountains are trial center of communist East Germany, bottle of wine in our room. Wurzburg’s the ruins of Heidelberg Castle. And ruins might not be the little was done to the ruins at the heart of extraordinary architecture is on display, right word. Portions of the castle remain for you to tour Dresden until the mid ‘90s. At that point, highlighted by the incredible 18th and the view from the gardens overlooking Heidelberg is what had been a memorial to war was century Residenz palace in the heart breathtaking. The curving drive to the top will give you painstakingly reconstructed using old of Wurzburg and Fortress Marienberg a thrill and some great views, too. Or, you can pack your architectural plans and all old stone from overlooking the city. Again, we took walking shoes and climb Koningstuhl hill to the castle. the ruins that could be salvaged. What to foot, covering the streets of Wurz- You can even go further up the mountain from the castle in couldn’t be salvaged, was recreated. burg on our arrival. We arrived at the the funicular. A fun ride and ANOTHER great view! The result, with the burned black blocks Old Main Bridge, a intermingled with new, is a haunting reminder of the We hit the autobahn once again headed for Trier. Unfortu- pedestrian-only bridge, devastation of war. nately, we had little time in this town to view the Roman right about sunset. We ruins that spot the area. Founded by the Celts and con- Thanks to the reconstruction of the city as it was, were joined by a large quered by the Romans, Trier is considered to be one of the Dresden’s soul is one of an old city, at least the center of number of residents oldest cities in Germany. We wandered past the old Roman Dresden. A large central square is surrounded by nar- who visit the bridge amphitheater as evening arrived. Advice: allot more time row serpentine streets. We stayed in a small hotel right with drink in hand to than we did. The next morning our planes, trains and au- on the square and proceeded to wander the streets and watch the sunset and tomobile tour of Germany continued as we raced to catch buildings of “old” Dresden. Even heavy showers didn’t enjoy each others’ com- our train to Cochem as we prepared to add river cruise to dissuade us as we scrambled to a traditional German pany. A very hospitable our list of transportation modes. Stay tuned! restaurant just off the main square for one of our best way to bring in the dinners of the trip. evening! Jay Newmarch is a marketing professional and graphic art- ist living in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Jay designs the Senior The city center is surrounded by main buildings, both The next day, we Perspectives publication for Senior Resources and is an avid residential and commercial, that are good examples of headed to the Residenz traveller who takes every opportunity to visit different corners communist era utilitarianism. They remind me, especially palace. Make sure to de- of the world.

SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY 6 MARCH | APRIL 2019 Caregiving: What I Have Learned from the Other Side

I miss my mom. “keep the faith.” Sometimes it is just I really do. Also staying in the race, even when you true, caregiv- are behind. It is holding your tongue ing was really when you want to snap. It is smiling hard. There were when you want to scream. many times that I Caregiving from the other side is wished it would much different than caregiving while end. Many times I you are in the middle of it. Yes, I miss BY asked God, “How my mom, but I also feel full of hope KENDRA much longer?” for the future. I am glad that my SCHUMAKER I didn’t think I family and I fully participated in her had strength to care. I have no regrets. I can even say continue on this journey. I was sad, that I am glad it was diffi cult. I can lonely, and tired. I was trying to work say that now because I know it made full time, take care of my mom while me stronger. It made me more of who she lived with us, and be a wife and I am. I have a sense of completeness, mother at the same time. Oh, my calm, and peace. family certainly did help. My family showed her a lot of love, and she was I have the ability to forgive and the re- loving towards them. Those memo- alization that I am forgiven. It brought ries sure help, but I do miss her. me to the total realization that being a caregiver does not mean that you The fi rst thing we all realized after have to be perfect, it just means that she died was how incredibly grateful you have to continue to participate. we were that we were able to keep Keep trying, stay in the game, don’t her at home. Not all families are give up. No matter who we are, what able to do that…no matter how hard we believe, or who we care for, we they try. On the other hand, realizing all hold one truth…we are all on this how quickly death came to her was earth temporarily. We must love fully, surreal. I have said many times that I live honestly, and continue to strive to would not have believed she died if I be 100% of who God wants us to be. had not seen her take her last breath. I have heard many other people Kendra Schumaker has 27 years experience say that their loved ones suffered working in the fi eld of aging. As former through many chronic (and acute) caregivers, she and her husband, Brian, illnesses. That is how I felt -- she realized the need for an additional resource always got better. for Home and Community Based Care. As a So what have I learned on this result of this, SarahCare Adult Day Center journey? I have learned to appreciate opened in 2008 to families of West Michigan. the good and the bad times. Were all Kendra is a Certifi ed Dementia Practitioner, our times together wonderful? No! facilitates several support groups locally, and Absolutely not. But I loved her. I miss is the Ambassador to West Michigan for the her. I am glad that I did my best to Alzheimer’s Association. Kendra’s passion take care of her. is not only home and community-based care services, but also caring for the caregiver! I have talked to many caregivers over the years and encouraged them to

MARCH | APRIL 2019 7 SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY What can we do to protect our not be trying to fi x your computer, Being a Tech Savvy Senior: devices from these types of soft- tablet or phone. People of every ware? age fall victim to malware and internet scams and our well- • First, don’t download anything intentioned relatives might make unless it comes through an offi cial matters worse. Don’t Be Tricked app store like Google Play or Apple. When we run into problems like • If you make a mistake and these, our inclination may be download some malware to your to give up on technology alto- by Malware computer, stay calm and know gether, especially if we’re new that any threatening messages to it. Technology is engrained in A couple of Tossing your computer out the you receive are not real. every part of our society though, weeks ago, I window or smashing your phone • Do not call the 800 numbers that and can actually go a long way in received a text with a hammer is not the answer. appear on your screen, give out helping us remain independent as message and You can take steps to avoid falling any personal information, or al- we age. It’s worth sticking with it several phone victim to malware. low anyone remote access to your and learning more. Local libraries calls from a computer. offer technology classes for adults, Malware, also referred to as friend franti- • You can often get free assistance as do many community and Adware or Spyware, is a type of cally trying to by going to the support website senior centers. If you’re a member software that is usually embedded reach me, “I BY of manufacturer of the device, of a group who would like a class in something else. Whether it is got a strange REGINA like Apple, Microsoft or Google on learning about how technology SALMI a “free” app you downloaded to notice on my support. like tablets and smart phones can your tablet, a “free” software you computer • Sometimes we need more than enhance your life, Area Agency on downloaded to your computer, or saying I had to call or they would help articles; there are services Aging of Western Michigan will a “free” game you play through disable me!” When I contacted her you can pay for help. Best Buy’s bring a class to your organization. your internet browser, most likely later, I was relieved to hear she Geek Squad or HelloTech also of- You can contact us at (616) 456- you clicked “OK” and, buried in refused to give them her credit fers in-home tech support, online 5664 or communications@aaawm. the fi ne print, you agreed to hav- card number and they hung up on and phone. These companies are org for more information. ing the malware fi les downloaded her. Too often, people who receive reputable, established companies. to your device. When it comes to Regina Salmi is the PR & Communica- these pop-up notices on their You may have local tech support apps and software, nothing is free. tions Coordinator for AAAWM. When computers, tablets or phones fall companies in your community. When these fi les get downloaded not keeping up with two busy teenagers, prey to these scare tactics, losing • Stay in charge of your devices! to our computers, strange things, she enjoys reading, writing, volunteer hundreds of dollars and some- While your son, daughter or like what happened to my friend, work, golf, technology and learning some- times their identity as a result. grandchild may seem tech savvy can happen. and well meaning, they should thing new every day.

You Are Still Strong!

Strength by its nature is power- and could determine destiny for all who it infl u- Now that the time of physical strength is no longer ful, vigorous, and full of life. ences. It is this inner strength that can accomplish at the forefront of life, mental, emotional and spiri- Strength comes from deep with- anything and makes the impossible possible. tual strength take center stage. It is time for your BY in and grows into a force that is You are stronger than you think you are. fortitude to be used to accomplish amazing things MICHELLE only matched by a like vivacity. with your mind and heart, just as you once did with JACKSON You have seen and experienced many obstacles. You It is resilient. It can endure pain, your body. have walked through seasons of struggle and tough struggle, and pressure. times. You have seen many types of devastations What if you could inspire a loved to go back to Strength is not only physical as it is in younger in your life and in the lives of your beloved friends school or go to Olympic trials? What if you could years--it is mental, emotional and even spiritual. and family. Moreover, you have seen society fall to persuade the trustees of your township or village to In fact, brute strength is the weakest kind there is. unbelievable lows. Even now, there are days you do preserve a park or a longstanding historical land- But, mental, emotional and spiritual strength are the not feel so great. Yet, you have gotten through it all. mark? What if you could encourage a friend to do kinds that determine one’s character and integrity It took strength to do that. STRONG Continued on next page

SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY 8 MARCH | APRIL 2019 STRONG Continued from previous page township, and even the direction of our society. current society of its history, citing stumbles from How? By being you, completely present and com- which to learn, and victories from which to glean. the thing that they have wanted to do their entire pletely lovingly honest. Share your testimonies or Your passion and wisdom will be seen in your eyes, life? Your strength could be just the nudge needed triumphs over trials. Share your learning moments even if no longer in your body. It will give oth- to infl uence the life of a loved one, the future of your and things you would do differently. Remind your ers strength to see dreams of hope and visions for change accomplished. That is your unyielding inner strength working on your behalf and on behalf of all those around you for years to come. Be Intentional. Have Determination. Speak Loving with Boldness. Michelle Jackson is the Director of Church Builders Bible Training Center who works with people from all denomi- nations and walks of life to help them take the church outside of the four walls and be a living testament in the marketplace. Michelle believes every human at every age and stage of life has a life assignment to fulfi ll. Her passion is to help them fi nd it and pursue it. Michelle serves on a ministry alliance through Foundation Rock Ministries based in Monrovia, CA that reaches both across the nation and the globe. Michelle also serves on the Board of Directors for Ordained Women’s Network based in Petoskey, MI. Most recently, Michelle serves locally as a mentor and bible teacher for Alpha Grand Rapids. Michelle is an ordained minister through Church Builders International.

MARCH | APRIL 2019 9 SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY Maybe That’s a Good Thing

It’s been well over a year of this. Yes, many of us are still writing checks. Fewer though. I jump from bed sometimes at 3 BY I try to create my own adventure – leave my doors a.m. – mind whirling. Exhausted HELEN TOWNE unlocked, get my nails painted black or a shade of from a day of physical activ- purple, ride my motorcycle – that’s us women. Today ity, I fall on the couch with my GUEST I noticed an elderly – no, ancient – old man driving favorite pillow, turn on TV, make WRITER in the rain with his sport’s car convertible top down. sure my hearing aids are in place. Most of us old persons carry lots of baggage. Our I reach for the remote, then, fall asleep. brains are so full we can’t recall half of it. Maybe that’s Understanding is not what I seek. Living alone in old a good thing! age is often joyous, but sometimes scary. I’m not ridiculing the young. It’s their turn to chal- I am now “waiting for God” as someone so aptly lenge the “fi ght or fl ight” system. I’m trying to be put it. After a life of work and raising a family, I now graceful about this thing called growing old. I have have time and fi nances. However, my body has been arrived kicking and screaming. Watch out you young beaten and abused. Don’t get me wrong, it’s been “a “whipper snappers.” In a week I will have arrived. wonderful life.” Now there’s time for refl ection, pam- Born in 1938 – you do the math on your iPhone. pering myself, travel, gardening, pickleball, etc. Helen, now living in Florida, grew up on Jackson Hill in Volunteering is satisfying if you can convince yourself Muskegon and makes frequent trips back to visit family you are actually helping. Organizations give you their and friends. She enjoys reading, writing, traveling, tennis, best ploy – fi nding “time-fi lling duties” to make us pickleball and riding her motorcycle. She wrote this article feel needed, but bottom line, a check would be good. a week before her 80th birthday.

SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY 10 MARCH | APRIL 2019 immediately by going to a stroke-cer- Ask the Provider tifi ed hospital if a stroke is suspected. Myths and Facts Such hospitals have the ability to administer tPA, a time-sensitive about Strokes A Primer on Strokes: medication administered in an Emer- gency Room, that breaks up clots and Myth: Strokes only happen to Signs, Causes and Treatment signifi cantly improves outcomes for older people. patients. Every minute of delay pres- ents a potential for the patient to lose Fact: Strokes can happen at Courtesy of Mercy Health following: 1.9 million neurons. There is a 4.5 hour any time. Even infants can F: Facial asymmetry or “window” to administer tPA after the Question: What does a drooping of the face have a stroke. vascular neurologist do last time the patient felt well, so min- A: Arm weakness utes really matter. Other treatments and what kind of training is S: Speech abnormalities, such Myth: Strokes don’t require involved? include interventions that remove the as slurring of speech or dif- clot, such as using a catheter system immediate care. Answer: Vascular neurology fi culty recalling words through the groin or through surgery. Fact: is a subspecialty of neurol- T: Timing…time to call 911 The earlier a stroke is ogy. Vascular neurologists CHRISTOPHER The symptoms of weakness Question: What kind of follow-up treated by a medical profes- typically undergo a vascular GOSHGARIAN, or numbness on one side care do patients usually require? sional, the more options a MD of the body, diffi culty with fellowship that provides one Answer: Follow-up care is individual- care team will have to treat vision, balance issues or to two additional years of ized depending on the patient’s needs changes in language are also the stroke. training beyond a neurology resi- and can occur on an outpatient basis. dency. We are trained to treat vascular indicators of a possible stroke. Follow-up therapies include physical issues that involve the central nervous Myth:A stroke is inevitable. Question: What are some of the therapy, speech therapy and occupa- system, such as stroke, cerebral hem- causes of strokes? tional therapy. Fact: Modifying your life- orrhage, subarachnoid hemorrhage style can greatly reduce your Answer: and different kinds of bleeds in the One common cause is large Learn more at www.MercyHealth. brain. blood vessel disease, which occurs likelihood of a stroke. com/Stroke. when plaque buildup causes clogging Question: Why are strokes some- or narrowing of a vessel that supplies times referred to as “brain attacks”? blood to the brain. For example, a Answer: When it comes to heart clot in one of the carotid arteries in a attacks (myocardial infarctions), the patient’s neck can break off and travel general public tends to be aware of to the brain, blocking a distal vessel the importance of getting immediate and causing a stroke. medical attention. Most people know Another type of stroke can occur that immediate care is crucial and when the small vessels within the can make a difference between life brain harden and narrow. These and death. The use of the expression vessels can have small ruptures or “brain attack” is a way to draw atten- hemorrhages causing a hemorrhagic tion to the need for patients to seek stroke. Risk factors for these strokes immediate medical care in the case of include smoking, diabetes, poor diet a stroke. and elevated blood pressure.

Question: How has the treatment of strokes changed over time? Question: Are strokes preventable? Answer: Not too long ago, after hav- Answer: According to the American ing a stroke, a patient might receive Heart Association/American Stroke an aspirin and see a neurologist a few Association, strokes are the #5 cause days later. Today, depending on the of death in the U.S. However, we individual circumstances and the time know that 70-80 percent of all initial when medical care is sought, we have strokes are preventable, and 50-70 immediate treatment for stroke, such percent of all secondary strokes are as clot-busting medications and proce- preventable. The practices of eating dures for removing the clot. healthy foods, exercising and not smoking work well in combination to Question: What are some of the signs reduce the risk of stroke. of a stroke? Question: How are strokes treated? Answer: We like to use the mnemonic “F – A – S – T” as an easy reminder Answer: It’s extremely important to of the symptoms. This stands for the recognize the signs of stroke and to act

MARCH | APRIL 2019 11 SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY ACROSS 10 Live and breathe 1 Stage segments 11 Mahler’s last symphony 5 Apiece 12 Fields 9 Fur fighters, initially 14 Loudness measure 13 Revealed 19 God with a hammer 15 Slushy treat 22 Co-star of Burt in “The 16 Lumberjack Killers” 17 “Lone Survivor” actor 25 Author Harper Hirsch 26 D.C. : Metro :: S.F. : __ 18 Strike site 27 Nonpareil 20 LBJ, for one 28 Téa of “Madam Secretary” 21 Champs-Elysees sights 29 Strasbourg step 23 Shady garden denizen 33 They’re often found in dens 24 Go through again 34 Forest age indicators 26 Counter alternatives 35 “Duck soup!” 27 Strike site 38 Electronics brand 30 Signature scent since 1968 relaunched in 2015 31 Place for an anvil 39 19-time All-Star Ripken 32 Works at Museo del Prado 40 Went by 36 Sailor’s pronoun 43 Rock-clinging mollusk 37 Company with a crocodile 46 __ carte logo 48 Have too much, briefly 41 Pitching stat 49 Took a snooze 42 Banks on some magazine 50 Inner, as a feeling covers 51 Bit of Hansel’s trail 44 Golfer Woosnam 52 Land of ancient Asia Minor 45 Spikes 53 Toast-making sound 47 Strike site 56 Cries of discovery 51 Insect that may live for 17 57 Elbow years 59 “I’d hate to break up __” 54 Live-in helper 61 Good name for a cook?

55 Psychologist May 63 Guacamole, e.g. (c)2018 TRIBUNE CONTENT AGENCY, LLC. 56 Date bk. listings 58 Peeples of “Walker, Texas Ranger” 60 Strike site 62 Unspoiled spots 64 Vikings’ home: Abbr. 65 Opinion 66 Mournful music G 67 Get too much sun 68 Hand-me-down 69 It’s often spoken with one hand at the edge of one’s mouth A EGP

DOWN 1 Retired 2 Resisting being taken? M 3 Academic term 4 Poivre’s tablemate 5 Statue of Liberty architect 6 One of 640 in a square mile E 7 Top suits 8 Tom’s mate 9 Lummox

SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY 12 MARCH | APRIL 2019 Handkerchiefs Remembered

Such a private place, a pocket: exchanged the soft loveliness a pocket that belongs to some- of her cotton handkerchief for one else’s life. this more antiseptic, disposable tissue? When my mother still lived on her own, an hour and a I thought about how, as a half away, my visits usually young girl, I had loved to fon- included a quick errand on dle the handkerchiefs she had her behalf or a run next door BY passed to me quietly in church to my brother’s house to poke ROLINA or in the car. Such lovely and my head in and say hello. VERMEER colorful bouquets of fl owers, It was sunny and warmer often trimmed with crocheted SENIOR PERSPECTIVES when I left home that morning so I was edges. My favorites. They carried the unprepared with a jacket or wrap of my faint scent of her perfume mingled with GAME PAGE own when I stepped out into a frigid the fresh clean smell of newly ironed cot- Answers on Page 23 chill later in the day to run to the grocery ton. I had thought them exquisite as they store. I helped myself to mom’s big caressed my face and wiped my teary black winter jacket. There was some- eyes or drippy nose. Sharing her hankies thing warm and cozy about sliding into then didn’t seem a bit unsanitary. There Mom’s jacket, her special smell and her was gentleness, comfort and great love generous shape forming the way her in those beautiful handkerchiefs. jacket hung on me. Much to my delight, in chatting with Chilled, gusty weather swirled around mom later she assured me that she me in the parking lot of the market. hadn’t abandoned her cloth hankies Sinking my hands into the deep warm altogether. Her handbag and sweater pockets of my mother’s coat, head down pockets still held those precious hand- against the cold wind, I walked quickly kerchiefs but every ladies powder room, toward the welcoming shelter of the after all, is well equipped with a box of automatic doors of the supermarket. facial tissue, right? Of course. Once inside, I was reluctant to pull my I’ve inherited my mother’s hankies now, hands out of mom’s spacious and warm to add to my own collection. And I fi nd coat pockets. there is heartfelt meaning and unspoken In the warm depth of my mother’s caring in the gentle, timeless gesture of pocket, my fi ngers enveloped the recog- offering a soft Kleenex or cotton hand- nizable lump of a wadded dead Kleenex. kerchief. My husband, my daughter, a I was quite surprised and taken aback! friend and even a needy stranger can al- I would have expected a real handker- ways count on a tissue or freshly ironed, chief…not this thin paper substitute. fl owery hankie out of my own pocket or Wistful disappointment came over purse. me. I acknowledge the practicality of a Rolina Vermeer has won several national tissue versus a handkerchief, but there, awards for her essays celebrating the life of her in my mother’s coat pocket, my fi ngers mother, whose inspiration continues. repelled away from that very distasteful wad. Had mom so modernized that she

MARCH | APRIL 2019 13 SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY Conquering Arthritis: Part II

In this issue, 5. Eastern medicine strategies we will contin- 6. Invasive interventions: Injec- ue our series on tions and surgical interventions Understanding Some of the specifi c treatment and Manag- recommendations really speak to ing Arthritis, fact vs. fallacy regarding many focusing on treatments that are on the market. key treatment Consumers are susceptible to gim- BY HOLLY strategies for micks and fads, especially when LOOKABAUGH the top areas we are hurting! Here is the most - DEUR impacted by up to date information to guide osteoarthritis: you in taking charge of your care the spine, hips, knees, and hands. and health directions. Top strategies: (as identifi ed by Treatment Guidelines for Osteo- OARSI - the Osteo Arthritis Re- Arthritis for your consideration: search Society International white paper) Non-pharmaceutical treatments supported by literature evaluated 1. Specifi c exercise strategies – for by OARSI hands, knees, hips, and spine – aquatic is a top preference • Acupuncture – yes 2. Rest vs. unloaded movement • Balneotherapy – yes 3. “Over the counter” and natural • Biomechanical interventions solutions (unloading brace) – yes 4. Nutrition – how diet really makes • Use of Cane (walking stick) – a difference with joint infl ammation yes • Crutches -- no

SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY 14 MARCH | APRIL 2019 • Electrotherapy/neuromuscular • The prescription drug patients when used for on the internet to guide you in electrical stimulation – no duloxetine was evalu- symptom relief. gradual progression of exercise • Strength training – yes ated for the fi rst time and • Balneotherapy, defi ned and activity. Remember how • Aquatic exercise – yes found to be an appropri- as using baths containing important diet and hydration • Land-based exercise – yes – ate treatment for knee- thermal mineral waters, is! Anti-infl ammatory diets can with guidance only OA patients without was evaluated for the fi rst be a powerful change, too. Even • TENS -- uncertain comorbidities and all time and found to be an drinking tart cherry juice gets a • Ultrasound – no multi-joint OA patients. appropriate therapy for thumbs up! Arm yourself with • Acetaminophen – yes – with • Due to increased safety patients with multi-joint knowledge, sprinkle in a little caution and guidance from physi- concerns about toxic- OA and comorbidities, as bit of motivation and you are cian ity, acetaminophen/ this group has few other on your way to changing your • Corticosteriods (intra-articular paracetamol was given treatment options. chronic pain safely, specifi cally, injection) – yes an “uncertain” recom- and in a scientifi c way. Good luck • Chondroitin: symptom relief -- mendation for all patients To briefl y summarize, arthri- on your anti-arthritis journey – it no for most; uncertain for some with comorbidities. tis can be focused on one or is NEVER too late to start moving • Opioids: No • Oral and transdermal opi- more joints, and the pain that and making a difference – at ANY Some other key points from this oid painkillers were given comes with osteoarthritis can AGE. intensive research group for your an “uncertain” recom- be the game changer to overall consideration: mendation for all patient function and quality of life. Be Holly Lookabaugh-Deur is a physical groups due to concerns your own advocate and use therapist with 39 years of experi- • Topical NSAIDs (non ste- about increased risks this information to guide you ence and the president of Generation roidal anti-infl ammation for adverse and serious in making self-management Care. She is a board certifi ed Geri- drugs) are recommended adverse events. choices, always informing your atric Clinical Specialist and special as appropriate for all pa- • Glucosamine and chon- physician, of course, when you certifi cations as an edema specialist in tients with knee-only OA droitin were both found make a change. Remember oncology rehabilitation, wound care, and in a scientifi c review, to be “not appropriate” moderation and use resources and as a certifi ed exercise expert for were found overall to be for all patients when used such as physical therapists (you aging adults. safer and better toler- for disease modifi cation don’t need a referral in Michigan ated compared to oral and “uncertain” for all to see one!) and certifi ed personal NSAIDs. trainers and reputable locations

MARCH | APRIL 2019 15 SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY Family Fun in Grand Rapids The Grand Rapids Civic Theatre and Frederick Meijer Gardens announce events and exhibits

Looking for tickets online? GRCT.org is the Grand Rapids Civic exclusive ticket source. Theatre: We neither control nor endorse 3-party re- sellers. Only buy tickets directly from Civic MAMMA MIA! Theatre and you never have to worry about paying signifi cantly higher than face value Book by Catherine prices. Johnson, Music & . Lyrics by Benny Andersson and Bjorn Frederik Meijer Gardens Ulvaeus February 22-March 17 & Sculpture Park: Whether you’re a A National Butterfl ies longtime fan or a are Blooming complete newcomer Treasure: to the show, you are Fred Meijer, Exhibition undoubtedly familiar with Mamma Mia!’s The annual Fred & Dorothy iconic playlist. The songs of Swedish pop His Collection Fichter Butterfl ies Are group ABBA feature as more than just musi- and Legacy Blooming exhibition at cal numbers – they practically drive the Meijer Gardens is the show’s story! Tracks like “Dancing Queen” Although never for- largest temporary tropical butterfl y exhibition and “Take a Chance on Me” fi nd new life in mally trained in the in the nation. Tropical butterfl ies from around the hands of playwright Catherine Johnson, visual arts or art history, the world fl y freely in the Lena Meijer Tropical who spins a love story unlike any you’ve Fred Meijer was deeply Conservatory every March and April. Through- seen before. interested in cultural endeavors and history, out the exhibition, there is special educational Johnson’s tale unfolds on a Greek island and had a long interest in sculpture. Visit A programming and the Lena Meijer Children’s paradise, on the eve of what could almost National Treasure: Fred Meijer, His Collection and Garden offers butterfl y-themed activities. More be a perfect wedding … The only thing Legacy at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture information can be found at meijergardens.org missing is the bride’s father. With a little Park through August 25, 2019. More information digging, bride-to-be Sophie narrows her can be found at meijergardens.org Volunteer Program search down to three men, each a past lover of her mother, each a potential father. But Open Orientation the candidates’ arrivals to the island stir up Explore Meijer Gardens’ volunteer program trouble for Donna and, potentially, the entire at an open orientation on March 13, 2019. This wedding itself. Resolution is chased in true theatre fashion: With an electric showcase of meeting will last approximately an hour and song and dance. a half. We will go over policies from the hand- book, give an overview of the open positions, Mamma Mia! has charmed more than 54 tour the volunteer center and take a photo for million people since its 1999 stage debut, your badge. Additionally, the Volunteer Manag- inspiring countless runs and two hit fi lm er and several current volunteers will be avail- adaptations. Don’t miss out on this unfor- able to answer any questions you have about gettable show! Get your tickets now at grct. our program. More information can be found at org or call our box offi ce at 616-222-6650! meijergardens.org

SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY 16 MARCH | APRIL 2019 Trinkets from the Past

The shoebox held many trinkets by someone who sews. That decision may have been which band will, when disengaged, be forced upon taken from the home I grew up subconscious, prompted by the shape of a heart in each side of the puncture preparatory to securing in. Like many boxes packed for the handle. Red Heart yarn was used in the sweaters the same in place by the application of an ordinary a move, it was stashed away, and mittens my mother and grandmother knitted rubber cement.” then opened once in a while and when I was young. Anyway, this tool ended up on This device could only be used on tubeless tires. I closed after a mental note: Oh, a dresser in our guest room along with other small was not aware of tubeless tires being available in the that box of stuff from up north. items from the past. 1920s. Added information on this tool was found on BY There were 50 or more items in A few months later, I picked it up for a closer look. It a bicycle website. Bicycle manufacturers apparently JERRY the box, including a tin match- had a thin coat of rust on it. Using a small wire brush put tubeless tires to use before the auto makers did. MATTSON box holder, where “farmer” to clean it did not do the trick, but the wire wheel on Searching tubeless tire history, I found, “In 1903 P. W. matches were kept. These a bench grinder did. Unveiled now, above the heart, Litchfi eld of the Goodyear Tire Co. patented the fi rst wooden matches were from the days when they was the name URICH along with PAT. AUG. 1919 - tubeless tire, however, it was never commercially could be struck on any rough surface, from the top OTHERS PEND. exploited until the 1954 Packard.” The next year, they of the wood-burning stove to the zipper in a jacket. were standard equipment on many new cars. An internet search for Urich resulted in the 1919 There was a fl at bottle opener with the message: From the strangest of places, in this case a box of patent information for a Puncture Closing Device for “From the Cypress Casks of Goebel.” Some pocket trinkets, interesting facts can be derived. Tires granted to Benjamin Urich of Milwaukee, Wis- knives, a metal shoe-horn from G.R. Kinney Co. Inc. consin. The four-page document included drawings Jerry has repaired many tires over the years. In high school of Chicago, the remains of a Regens cigarette lighter, of four fi gures on how the tool was to be used. he “fi xed fl ats” while working at a Shell gas station. The a Fairfi eld spoon and a 1960s JON-E hand warmer “My invention relates to improvements in so-called repairs ranged from patching red colored tubes, used in were also there. rubber band shooters, or, in other words, a device for cars like the Model A Ford, to a variety of methods used for One item stood out because I had no idea what it retaining a rubber band in a stretched or extended tubeless tires. No repair included the use of a Urich tool. was. It looked like it may have been something used position until being inserted in the tire puncture, and

MARCH | APRIL 2019 17 SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY Question: If I retire at age 62, will I be eligible for is reduced by a percentage based on the number of Medicare? months before he or she reaches full retirement age. Answer: No. Medicare starts when you reach 65. If For example, based on the full retirement age of 66, if you retire at 62, you may be able to continue medical a spouse begins collecting benefi ts: insurance coverage through your employer or pur- Questions • At age 65, the benefi t amount would be about 46 chase it from a private insurance company until you percent of the retired worker’s full benefi t; become eligible for Medicare. For more information, and Answers • At age 64, it would be about 42 percent; read Medicare at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs, or • At age 63, 37.5 percent; and call us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). • At age 62, 35 percent. Question: I have been receiving my Supplemental However, if a spouse is taking care of a child who is Security Income (SSI) by direct deposit for years, but I either under age 16 or disabled and receives Social need to change my bank account. How can I do that? Security benefi ts on the same record, a spouse will Answer: For SSI benefi ts, you can complete changes in direct deposit by calling get full benefi ts, regardless of age. Learn more by reading our Retirement publi- or visiting your local fi eld offi ce. You may also call 1-800-722-1213 (TTY 1-800- cation at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10035.html. 325-0778) between the hours of 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. For more information regard- Question: What’s the best way to fi nd out if I might be eligible for SSI? ing direct deposit, please visit www.socialsecurity.gov/deposit. Answer: Our online Benefi t Eligibility Screening Tool (BEST) will help you fi nd Question: What is the benefi t amount a spouse may be entitled to receive? out if you could get benefi ts that Social Security administers. Based on your answers to questions, this tool will list benefi ts for which you might be eligible Answer: If you are eligible for both your own retirement benefi t and for ben- and tell you more information about how to qualify and apply. Find BEST at efi ts as a spouse, we will always pay you benefi ts based on your record fi rst. If www.benefi ts.gov/ssa. your benefi t as a spouse is higher than your retirement benefi t, you will receive a combination of benefi ts equaling the higher spouse’s benefi ts. A spouse gener- ally receives one-half of the retired worker’s full benefi t Vonda VanTil is the Public Affairs Specialist for West Michigan. You can write her c/o unless the spouse begins collecting benefi ts before full Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email retirement age. If the spouse begins collecting benefi ts be- at [email protected] fore full retirement age, the amount of the spouse’s benefi t Understanding BY VONDA VANTIL Social Security Unfortunately, tragedy can strike without any warning. The loss of the Disability family wage earner can be devastating both emotionally and fi nancially. Social Security helps by providing income for the families of workers who die. Benefits Some of the Social Security taxes you pay go toward survivors benefi ts for able to get full benefi ts at full retire- ment age. The full retirement age for • Your unmarried children, younger least half of their support.) workers and their families. The value than age 18 (or up to age 19 if they’re survivors is age 66 for people born How much your family can get from of the survivors benefi ts you have un- attending elementary or secondary in 1945-1956, with the full retirement Social Security depends on your aver- der Social Security may even be more school full time), can also get benefi ts. age gradually increasing to age 67 age lifetime earnings. The more you than the value of your individual life Your children can get benefi ts at any for people born in 1962 or later. Your earned, the more their benefi ts will be. insurance. When you die, certain mem- age if they were disabled before age widow or widower can get reduced For more information on widows, wid- bers of your family may be eligible 22. Under certain circumstances, we benefi ts as early as age 60. If your sur- owers, and other survivors, visit www. for survivors benefi ts. These include can also pay benefi ts to your stepchil- widows and widowers (and divorced viving spouse is disabled, benefi ts can socialsecurity.gov/planners/survivors. begin as early as age 50. dren, grandchildren, step grandchil- widows and widowers), children, and dren, or adopted children. Vonda VanTil is the Public Affairs dependent parents. • Your widow or widower can get Specialist for West Michigan. You can benefi ts at any age if they take care of • Your dependent parents can get write her c/o Social Security Adminis- Here are the people who can get survi- benefi ts if they’re age 62 or older. (For vors benefi ts based on your work: your child younger than age 16 or dis- tration, 3045 Knapp NE, Grand Rap- abled, who is receiving Social Security your parents to qualify as depen- ids MI 49525 or via email at vonda. • Your widow or widower may be benefi ts. dents, you must have provided at [email protected]

SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY 18 MARCH | APRIL 2019 the idea of a memorable cup of coffee. I thought, “What if coffee tasted as good as it smells?” That did resurrect a memory. As a child, the aroma of coffee attracted What’s Brewing? and enticed, but the taste repelled me. “Why would Mom and Dad drink that stuff?” Early one December morning I hall Road for a cup of coffee and Aging gracefully, I had crossed a boundary into avoided use of our Keurig cof- to get started on this story. The the company of men and women who meet for fee maker, with its sound of an place was very busy. The espresso coffee and conversation. Even more specifi c, invading Martian machine from machine sounded like a jet taxiing I’ve noticed men in coffee klatches in multiple the 1953 movie War of the Worlds. before takeoff. The coffee bean restaurants across the country, including three Seated in a wingback chair in the grinder added its gravelly sound local groups who welcomed me into their folds. dark, I took inventory of less fore- to a whirlwind of conversations. I think these groups may be as ubiquitous as Red boding voices of wind chimes on Voices blended into a thick fog of noise, Hat Ladies, except the Ladies are night owls also. To the deck and the steady rhythm BY through which the only discernable words the waitress’s question, I would answer that coffee, even JOEL of our cuckoo clock’s pendulum. were attached to orders, “Shar! Your espresso is ready!” decaffeinated coffee, brews contemplation, rich conversa- DULYEA When our dachshund shook tions and community. I also met two buddies at the deli for coffee and conversa- awake, I set a kettle of water on tion. Well…only two of us would drink coffee. One friend About my friend who doesn’t sip from the same cup the stove, retrieved the French press from the cupboard, would have partially agreed with my waitress from the of convivial conversations? We are the benefi ciaries of and placed fi ve scoops of Butterscotch Toffee blend into morning diner, although not for the same reason. He got his company, while he benefi ts from those who have it. Brewing coffee this way was less an invasion and more his caffeine fi x sipping cola from a red, white and blue the habit of drinking the awful stuff. In his garage are an addition to the morning’s contemplative mood. The Pepsi paper cup. Why not a coffee? “I just never started multiple coffee cans chock full of nuts; and bolts and nails. specially ground package with “DECAF” stamped upon drinking the awful tasting stuff.” Most of us have a less utilitarian reason to drink the stuff it reminded me of a breakfast diner where I ordered -- to the last drop. decaffeinated coffee with bacon, eggs and toast. At the Upon further consideration, coffee isn’t all that tasty. mention of the word “decaf,” the waitress asked, “What’s It’s not an adult version of soda pop that can anchor a Joel Dulyea is a United States Army retiree who loves to sing the point?” time-specifi c memory, such as a grape Nehi recalls the with his wife Merijo, go on dates with his daughter and spoil character Radar O’Reilly. My 93-year-old dad scoffed at his wire-haired dachshund, Heidi Later that morning, I went to Brooklyn Bagels on White-

MARCH | APRIL 2019 19 SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY is important in life. Values are now turned upside down. A person discovers what truly matters in life. Kalanithi refers to this as “someone had taken away my credit card and I was having to live on a budget.” He goes on to write, “Death is a one-time event but living with a terminal illness is a process.” At the same time as they were deal- ing with his cancer, Kalanithi’s wife Lucy became pregnant. She gave birth to a beautiful girl named Cady. However, they faced a dilemma. The couple were in the process of nurturing a life as another life was declining. Ultimately, Kalanithi knew his days were extremely lim- ited. Still, his one desire was to live long enough for his daughter Cady to have some memory of him. The author passed away in March 2015. The book was unfi nished when he died. His wife wrote the fi nal chapter. Cady was only eight months old when he died. His wish of his daughter having memory of him was unfulfi lled. Nevertheless, Facing his own mortality -- Lucy writes in the fi nal chapter, “He confronted death – examined it, Book Review of wrestled with it, accepted it – as a physician and a patient.” When Breath Becomes Air is an ex- ceptional, thought-provoking story When Breath Becomes Air of the challenges facing a terminal- illness and eventual death. Written from two viewpoints, one from a Death and dying something few of us can truly relate physician’s side and the other from is never easy, to. As a young surgeon, just thirty- “Death is a one-time a patient. It is indeed a brilliant especially when six years old, Paul Kalanithi had a work well worth reading. the person is bright future ahead of him. He was event but living with young and has a nearing completion of ten years of a terminal illness is a Curtis Freed is a Spiritual Care bright, promis- medical training as a neurosurgeon Counselor for Harbor Hospice. He is a ing future. What when he was diagnosed with stage process” Board Certifi ed Chaplain (BCC) with is it like to face IV lung cancer. It seemed unthink- the Association of Professional Chap- death at a young BY able to Kalanithi. After all, he had so – Paul Kalanithi lains (APC). Prior to joining Harbor age? What does CURTIS FREED, much going for him. Hospice, he worked as a chaplain at courage look MA, BCC Mercy VNS & Hospice for 3 years. In Kalanithi paints a very riveting like in the face of each of us will face one day. Kala- addition, he worked as a chaplain for and compelling story of his world uncertainty? nithi wrote, “I began to realize that Spectrum Health at Butterworth and turned upside down when he coming to face to face with my own Blodgett Hospitals for 8 years. He is a When Breath Becomes Air (Random received the news of his cancer. morality, in a sense, had changed graduate of Liberty University (1987) House 2016) is the transforming He went from being a doctor and nothing and everything.” and Liberty Baptist Theological Semi- story of a brilliant young surgeon treating the dying to becoming a nary (1990). who takes us down the road of patient facing his own mortality. He When given such news, it certainly uncertainty as he faces death – takes the reader into a world that changes one’s perspective on what

SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY 20 MARCH | APRIL 2019 As you can see, deciding on euthanasia needs to take into account the many pieces that make up overall quality of life. Every single situation is unique and deeply personal to all of those Ask the Vet involved. If you are thinking about this for your pet, I hope that in Euthanasia some small way that this helps and I would I want to take this opportunity to discuss a topic that urge you to consult I get asked about frequently, and it is a diffi cult topic with your veterinarian to talk about: euthanasia. The defi nition of euthana- about the best options sia is to painlessly end a life to relieve the individual for end-of-life care for from pain and suffering. Euthanasia is a decision that your pet. He or she will pet owners frequently have to encounter as part of be able to help guide end-of-life care for their pets. I’m convinced it’s one you to make the best BY of the most diffi cult decisions that any of us ever have decisions for your pet. to make. Fortunately, in the veterinary world we have DR. ERIC Dr. Eric Peterson is a North PETERSON this option to ease our pets’ pain and suffering when Muskegon High School nothing more can be done for them. The circumstanc- graduate and has lived in es that affect an animal’s quality of life can include disease, injury, and Muskegon life-long. In overall decline due to age, to name just a few. 2003, he graduated from Quality of life, in simplest terms, is best summed up by asking the ques- the College of Veterinary tion, “is my pet having more ‘bad days’ than ‘good days.’” When there Medicine at Michigan State University. He currently owns and practices at Northside are more “bad days” than “good days” it can be time to start thinking Veterinary Hospital and Holton Road Veterinary Clinic in Muskegon. He has been about euthanasia. Breaking down what makes up “good days” and “bad married to his lovely wife Marisa for nine years and together they have four wonderful days” is a little more diffi cult and is unique to every household/family/ children Charlotte age 7, Graham age 5, and twins Will and Penelope age 3. pet situation. I typically have pet owners think about four main catego- ries that make up “good days” versus “bad days”-- or quality of life. The fi rst category is “eliminations” or the ability to urinate (pee) or have bowel movements (poop) normally and as expected. This isn’t as straightforward as you might think. Under this category one must take in to account if the pet is able to physically accomplish these day-to-day acts comfortably and on their own. Some disease and illness can make this very diffi cult for some animals to accomplish without assistance. It’s important to consider the animal’s experience with their ability to accom- plish this necessary daily act. The second category is “eating and drinking.” When animals become ill, many times they do not eat and drink as they should. Sometimes they can be enticed to eat tasty items for a while until they fi nally will not or cannot eat anymore. The same can happen with drinking. When an ani- mal slows to stops drinking, this is life threatening and without interven- tion will lead to loss of life. The third category is “comfort or pain.” When an animal becomes un- comfortable enough or painful and we (pet owners and veterinary team) cannot make them comfortable on a day-to-day basis, it can be time to say goodbye. It’s diffi cult to watch something we love so much go through pain without the ability to control it any longer. The fourth category “interaction.” This category is a little tougher to defi ne but pet owners know their pets better than anyone…their little quirks, their games, the way they pay attention to us and show they love us. When our pets don’t do their “things” anymore, it’s part of the way they tell us they don’t feel well anymore.

MARCH | APRIL 2019 21 SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY

Fire Safety, Part II Lessons from the Fire

“Get up! The to drink a lot of water to wash the residue kennel is on fi re!” out of their throats and out of their sys- I had little idea tems; so will you. Thank goodness I had that night when I water stored on site as part of my disaster went to bed that preparedness plan. I would soon be The foam the fi re fi ghters use, or perhaps awakened, my what is mixed in with it from the ash, is BY world changed caustic. Burns surfaced on the dogs as CHRISTINE forever. We tend much as ten days after the fi re. WISTROM to live in denial believing we’ll Have a support network you can rely get by and disaster won’t touch us. I on. After the fi re, friends arrived to help didn’t get by. care for the dogs, hold and comfort them, and offer emotional support to those of My kennel housed approximately us who went through the trauma. The fi fty dogs. As I raced outside, the fi re fi ghters shut down the electricity and building was already ablaze. With water to the house as well as the kennel. fl ames dancing across the roof, I I sat in the dark for hours with puppies headed inside. Fire was licking the wrapped in blankets, trying to keep them ceiling above my head, and the smoke warm and comforted. Friends arrived was thick and acrid. Electricity crack- with towels, blankets, coffee and food. led and the lights went out, but the That was priceless. It is your friends who fl ames lit my way. As I drew near the will get you through the worst of it and cages, I saw Winston, my male beagle, make the nightmare bearable. standing on his hind legs. They say dogs will not leave a familiar place in Be prepared! Make an inventory of a disaster, instead remaining where everything you own now, before disaster they feel safe, yet when I opened the strikes. It is very diffi cult to remember door, Winston ran through. His ken- what you had when it’s lying in ashes. nel mates followed him. I continued Go room by room and write down down the line of cages opening each everything you see. You can add age, cost door. Every dog ran outside. Strug- and value at a later time, if necessary, but gling to breathe, I did too. make sure everything is listed and store a copy off site. Since the fi re, I have learned so much: lessons I will never forget. I would like Make a plan for how you’ll respond to a di- to share them with you, praying you saster. Practice it until it is habit. Do it now; never experience them fi rst-hand. don’t put it off. Tonight may be too late. After a fi re, if you have a cat or dog, Chris is a Gerontologist who works at check its paws; the pads of their feet Disability Network/Lakeshore in Holland, are easily burned. Michigan as an Independent Living Spe- cialist. Current interests include assistive Know that eyes can be damaged from technology, veterans’ issues, emergency the smoke, as well as the trachea. preparedness planning and service dog Following a fi re, your pets will want training.

SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY 22 MARCH | APRIL 2019 won three Pulitzers: 1919, for Cornhuskers, 1940 for his Lincoln biography and 1951 for his Complete Poems. In 1964 he received the Presidential Medal of An American Poet Freedom from LBJ. His homes in Galesburg and Flat Rock have been au- Carl Sandburg, an editor, writer, He began being referred to as the thorized as National and poet, is my choice of topics “Poet of the People” who spoke for Historic Sites and are for this edition of Senior Perspec- those who did not have the words open to the public. tives. or power to speak for themselves. In He supported the civil 1916, he wrote his Chicago Poems book Carl was born in 1878 in a small rights movement and that included the famous opening cottage in Galesburg, Illinois. was the fi rst white lines, “Hog Butcher for the World, He was the second child of man to be honored by Tool Maker, Stacker of Wheat, Player Clara and August Sandburg the NAACP with their BY with Railroads and the Nation’s DICK and had three brothers and Silver Plaque Award, Freight Handler, Stormy, Husky, HOFFSTEDT three sisters. He left school at proclaiming him to Brawling city of the Big Shoulders.” 13 to help support his large be a “major prophet It caught the essence of the city at family. He worked at many odd jobs until he of civil rights in our that time in its history. was 20, when he joined the U.S. Army during the time.” Spanish-American war. He was stationed briefl y in After Milwaukee they moved to Chi- Carl died in 1967 at 89 Cuba and Puerto Rico but never saw combat. After cago where he wrote for the Chicago and Lilian died in 1977 the war in 1903, he returned to Galesburg to attend Daily News for 15 years, from 1917 at 93. Both are buried in college but left without a degree. It was in 1904 that until 1932. Galesburg underneath a love of poetry began a career of writing that lasted In 1927, he was perhaps the fi rst the boulder called a lifetime. American urban folk singer, playing “Remembrance Rock” About this time, he became aware of the philoso- a solo guitar at lectures and poetry in his front yard. phy of Social Justice. He met his future wife, Lilian recitals. He continued doing that for Steichen, at a Social Democratic Party in 1907. They the rest of his life. Richard Hoffstedt was married the next year and raised three daughters. born to Swedish immi- From 1928 until 1945, the fi ve of them lived in a She was a native of Hancock, Michigan, and her grants in 1934 and raised in Chicago. He is a U.S. Army small cottage on Lake Michigan in Harbert, Michi- brother was the famous photographer, Edward veteran. He has been married to Shirley for 63 years. gan. Their last years were spent in Flat Rock, NC for Steichen. She became a high school teacher. A few Richard ha six children, fi ve grandchildren and three great the milder climate. years later they moved to Milwaukee and joined grandchildren. Richard is an engineer by profession. His the Social Democratic Party, where Carl served as a Along the way, he wrote the Rootabaga Stories for interests are music, reading, travel, riding his adult tri- secretary to the socialist mayor of Milwaukee from children and his only novel, Remembrance Rock. cycle, Mark Twain and John Steinbeck. This is Richard’s 1910 to 1912. 40th article for Senior Perspectives. Throughout his life he received many awards. He

Answers for Word Search , Crossword Puzzle and Suduko on Pages 12 & 13

Boggle Answers: RAVEN EAGLE CRANE EGRET HERON FINCH ROBIN GOOSE ______

Jumble Answers: BARON MESSY POSTAL RITUAL

Answer: After his plastic surgery, Donald Duck had – BILL PAYMENTS

MARCH | APRIL 2019 23 SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY 24 MARCH | APRIL 2019