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4 Fifty Plus Advocate April 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com Fifty Plus Advocate ■ Central Massachusetts Edition ■ April 1, 2013 ■ Vol. 39 / No. 4 ■ 28 pp. ■ Published monthly
FEATURED STORIES h Agency helps unemployed 9 t Beware of risky drugs 19 n Retirement investments improving 21
o Medicare rewards bad care 23 How long will you live? 24 M
Americans conflicted on spending 24 Finding Bad care work 9 rewarded 23 s DEPARTMENTS i
Caregiving Tips 19 h Feeling Healthy 10 T Home Improvement 26
Housing Options 19 e Just My Opinion 7
d Legal Briefs 22
i Money Matters 20 Government Longevity
s Resource for Caregivers 16 undersight 19 test 24 Travel 14 n Viewpoint 8 ABOUT THE COVER I Inside This Month Journal writing courses help uncover family histories, memories p. 6 ■ I NDEX OF SERVICES IN THIS ISSUE ■
ADULT DAY CARE CREMATION SERVICES MEDICARE PREFERRED Adult Day Care at Dodge Park ...... p. 14 Shaw-Majercik Funeral Home ...... p. 22 TUFTS Health Plan ...... p. 3 ADVOCACY NURSING HOMES EYE CARE SERVICES AARP ...... p. 7 Golden LivingCenters, Fitchburg ... p. 4 Keamy Eye & Laser Center ...... p. 11 AFFORDABLE SENIOR HOUSING Golden LivingCenters, Worcester ... p. 4 FUNERAL SERVICES Knollwood Nursing ...... p. 15 Lincoln Village ...... p. 2 Miles Funeral Home ...... p. 21 Lutheran Rehab. & Skilled Care .... p. 13 ASSISTED/INDEPENDENT LIVING HEALTH CARE INFORMATION Quaboag Rehab. & Skilled Care .... p. 16 Briarwood ...... p. 15 SHINE Program ...... p. 21 REST HOMES ATTORNEYS, ELDER LAW Brookhaven Assisted Care ...... p. 11 HOME CARE Durbin & Veglia Attorneys at Law .. p. 21 Dodge Park ...... p. 12 Bayada Home Health Care ...... p. 16 Estate Preservation Law Offices ...... p. 23 SUBSIDIZED HOUSING p. 13 Ingle Law ...... p. 27 BrightStar Lifecare ...... Bet Shalom Apartments ...... p. 18 OME EDICAL QUIPMENT AUTO DETAILING H M E Colony Retirement Homes ...... p. 13 Emanuel Village ...... p. 10 Haddad Auto Detail...... p. 18 Apple Home Care and Rehab...... p. 10 Green Hill Towers ...... p. 25 CEMETERIES HOSPICE Hawthorne Hills ...... p. 18 St. John’s Cemetery & Mausoleum ... p. 20 Jewish Healthcare Hospice ...... p. 17 Illyrian Gardens ...... p. 22 HOSPITALS Worcester County Memorial ..... p. 26, 27 Village at Ascension Heights ...... p. 25 CLEANING SERVICES UMass Memorial ...... p. 11, 27 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Clean Team ...... p. 18 Saint Vincent Hospital ...... p. 28 Rachel’s Table ...... p. 24 If you use any services listed above, please mention you saw their ad in the Fifty Plus Advocate. Writing workshops uncover family histories, forgotten memories By Brian Goslow had perhaps never previ- after the other, one para- ously revealed. At Perkins, graph after the other, in orraine Clifford has always been inter- and now at the Watertown traditional ways,” Zapol said. ested in her family history, even when Senior Center, Quinlan asks “He has us ‘free write’ — take Lmuch of it wasn’t quite clear. her class to keep what’s dis- off from phrases, images, After meeting some relatives on her moth- cussed among themselves. smells. This has led me to er’s side in her hometown of Watertown, She recently completed remember things I might she traveled to Newfoundland to see where her first six-month work- not otherwise remember, but her mother’s parents came from. “I really shop at the Watertown also to really enjoy keeping wanted to go back and see the place where Senior Center, where the a journal, which includes my grandparents had grown up and met and participants were 60 and primitive drawings, colors, where my grandfather had built a house for older. “They wanted to pass words written big and small, his wife,” said Clifford, 70, who committed their knowledge — and/or sideways.” her memories of the trip to paper when she wisdom — on to their fam- Another non-traditional returned home. ily,” she said. “Maybe some- exercise Dudley has his stu- However, a bigger part of her family tree times just explain some- dents undertake is writing was about to reveal itself as she delved into thing that was confusing, their autobiography using her genealogical roots. “I recently found out or seems confusing, maybe “the Twitter version of writ- — within the last year — that my father had explain to their children ing,” he said. He acknowl- a half-sister, who is 86 years old, living in why we (their parents) got edges the challenge this Minneapolis,” Clifford said. divorced ... Some of them creates. “How could you The discovery occurred through a combi- are nervous about it, but possibly write your life story nation of researching Arlington town records it’s something they want in 35 words and really cover and the help of a woman Clifford met on to share.” every aspect of it — your 14 Facebook in a group dedicated to Crowell Believing “if you can Kendall Dudley (l) with journaling and life design students in Morocco marriages and your 37 chil- (her father’s surname by birth). “She con- talk, you can write,” to get opportunity to take another look at rela- dren and all those somehow ducted a Google search and found a match- participants on the right track, Quinlan asks tionships which may lead to making repairs get covered in those 35 words? What this ing name, address and telephone number,” them to write a short piece about their life. or saying what you never said but wanted does is, it activates our memory which starts said Clifford, referring to the woman she “For one particular person who thought to,” said Erica Curtis, a marriage and family sorting data.” met on Facebook. “She said, ‘Lorraine, if she couldn’t write, I suggested that she therapist based in Santa Monica, Calif. “Even Once the words start popping out onto you haven’t tried this, call it and good luck.’ ” imagine she was writing a letter to someone,” if you are not able to actually speak to those paper, it’s time to consider why they came Clifford called the number in Minneapolis Quinlan said. “So she wrote letters to her people, creating a fantasy scenario in writing out at this point in time — and whether they and introduced herself to her aunt for the first father. I think that helped her find her voice where you make reparations can be a healing have more to contribute to the years to come time, explaining how, through her research, and to realize that she could write. Once experience. than those gone by. she had untangled a family history that people share their first story, and experience “There are of course the additional benefits “This is the other part of looking at life- included divorces, adoptions, name changes the reaction that they get from the group, of leaving behind a legacy for family members story writing,” Dudley said. “It’s not just about and in her aunt’s case, a reversion to using they realize they do have something to say and friends through not only the passing recording the past and making sense of the her maiden name’s first initial. that strikes a chord with others.” down of history but of wisdom as well. past but exploring what is its significance for “I contacted her daughter and told her Exploring the past can have health “This has been identified as a key devel- the future. How can my life be more meaning- that I really would love to come out there benefits. opmental task of adults who are in their ful by understanding more about the past?” and visit with my aunt,” Clifford said. They “Writing is indeed cathartic, which is later life,” Curtis continued. “Throughout Zapol found this process has led her to ended up spending a long weekend together why therapists frequently give clients writing the recalling and recounting, there may be stories, vignettes and impressions from her where they just talked and talked about past assignments,” said Tina B. Tessina, Ph.D., the opportunity to experience deep emo- life that she hadn’t previously considered part family life. “She could answer some of my (aka “Dr. Romance”), a psychotherapist and tions, sometime feelings that were previously of her tale. “I’ve found that if I don’t get hung questions and I could answer some of hers, author of The Ten Smartest Decisions a Woman repressed because it was not safe or functional up on whole sentences and polished writing, but we didn’t have all the answers. But that Can Make After Forty. to experience them at the time of the event. which is what we had to do in school, I come was OK, because we had found each other.” “Whether hand-written, in a beautiful Having such a cathartic experience can also up with pieces that make me feel good because Clifford put some of her recollections blank book, scribbled on scraps of paper bring a sense of resolution and closure.” they are true and that I am even surprised to of the visit into words during a “Writing or saved on your computer, a journal is one Nikki Zapol, 68, of Cambridge, said the read afterwards because they feel right. I’m and Reminiscence” Writing Workshop at of the best ways to examine and sort out biggest benefit she’s received from taking the seeing how the stories of my life shape the the Watertown Senior Center. She hopes to your feelings. Writing can help you figure “Memories, Stories and Reflections: Ongoing person I am now.” use that writing, and that from her trip to out what’s important to you and where you Project in Life Story Writing” course at the She’s become close with some of her Newfoundland, as the starting point for a want to go next in your life,” Tessina said. Cambridge Center for Adult Education has classmates, especially after a small group of larger life story to be given to her children. While many set out to document their been the documentation on paper of memo- them joined Dudley for a travel, cultural and Jennifer Quinlan, who previously ran a past do so with the intention of leaving rable life moments that she hadn’t thought writing excursion to Morocco. “We know memoir-writing group at the Perkins School something behind for future generations, about for years. Without that, there would some things about the way we view the for the Blind’s now-closed Elder Learning many times they find it reveals things in be no record of those events. world, our families, ourselves and others Center, hosted the Watertown workshop. their life they never considered before or, Kendall Dudley, 70, of Belmont, owner — we’ve gotten a glimpse into each other’s “I was lucky to get started with a group by taking a fresh look on them, they reverse of Lifeworks and program chair for the Life souls,” Zapol said. of about four women who had some sort painful memories. Signing/Finding Network for professionals of visual impairment,” Quinlan said. “They “Writing about your history — and over 50, has taught the class for the past For more information on upcoming Writing were either born blind or developed macular expressing your feelings about it — can heal 17 years. He’s developed a way of getting and Reminiscence Writing Workshops, con- degeneration, or something like that, when old wounds,” Tessina said. “It can focus, extraordinary memories out of his students, tact Jennifer Quinlan at jsquinlan@gmail. they were in their 50s or 60s, so they had that support and enhance your life and help not only through the exploration of the big com; Kendall Dudley, kendalldudley.com; for in common. But they were also interested in you understand more about yourself and moments in their lives, but those split-second details on the next “Memories, Stories, and writing about their life.” others in your history. It’s a great way to trap sensations which have remained in the back Reflections: An Ongoing Project in Life Story Quinlan learned how to make her writ- important memories and elusive moments of their psyche ever since. Writing” course at the Cambridge Center for ing group participants feel comfortable and keep them forever.” “Kendall has encouraged us to break out Adult Education, which begins on April 9, visit discussing events from their lives that they Writing a memoir may also afford the of the usual mold of writing one sentence www.ccae.org/catalog/detail.php?id=565243.
Fifty Plus Advocate is published monthly, 12 Publisher: Philip Davis Research Study Advertising: times annually by Mar-Len Pub li cations, Inc. 131 Executive Editor / Donna Davis: ext. 130 Lincoln St., Worcester, MA 01605. Assistant Publisher: Sondra Shapiro: ext. 136 Boston Metro / Boston South Sales Manager: Fifty Plus Advocate ac cepts no responsibility for Reva Capellari: ext. 5 unsolicited manu scripts or materials and does not Staff Reporter: Brian Goslow: ext. 135 return them to sender. Re trac tions for any inaccuracies Central Massachusetts Edition Travel Writer: Victor Block Sales: will be printed when necessary. Unsolicited letters to Donna Davis: ext. 130 131 Lincoln Street, Worcester, MA 01605 Art Director: Susan J. Clapham: ext. 142 the editor become the property of this newspaper and Cara Kassab: ext. 126 can be reprinted in part or in whole unless otherwise Serving the Fifty Plus Com mu nity since 1975 Bookkeeper: Stacy Lemay: ext. 6 stated. Fifty Plus Advocate columnists writing under a (508) 752-2512 • FAX: (508) 752-9057 byline are ex press ing their personal opinions and not Bookkeeping: ext. 6, Circulation: ext. 7, Sales Manager: ext. 5 Members of the Associated Press. necessarily those of the newspaper. Read more at www.fiftyplusadvocate.com New AARP head a very capable leader By Sondra Shapiro ly under the governor, to one buried under the large umbrella of Health and Human ith the economy still in the skids, Services. But Gov. Patrick promised Festa affecting programs and services that he would be allowed the autonomy Wfor aging Americans nationwide, to make decisions benefiting the 50 plus it is comforting to know there are advocates population. During his stewardship, Festa in the trenches fighting the good fight. oversaw the expansion of senior employ- The newest member to join the ranks ment and civic engagement opportunities, is the very accomplished Michael Festa, as well as increased access to resources and 58, the recently appointed state director services for abused elders. Festa also iden- of AARP Massachusetts. The name will tified technology solutions to enhance the be familiar to many since Festa began agency’s ability to monitor costs, analyze his career as an assistant district attorney and disseminate data and create efficiencies in Middlesex County, then served as a to better deliver services to seniors. state rep from Melrose from 1999 to 2007 Unfortunately, Festa’s passion and need when he was named Elder Affairs secretary, for independence proved too much for the serving until 2009. Festa also had a long- powers that be — his stint was cut short. standing law practice in his hometown of It was a discourteously executed exit for a Melrose. man who had initially resisted accepting the position until he received assurances from the governor that he would be allowed the Just My necessary independence and support to do the job properly. Opinion The state’s loss is AARP’s gain. In its wis- dom, AARP has made a perfect choice in Throughout his Festa, who replaces Deborah Banda, who career, Festa has shown accepted a position with AARP’s national a sharp knowledge of and passion for the office to help develop its 50 plus-worker concerns of the state’s older residents. As a initiative. state representative, he was famous for his “AARP hired me because they rec- annual senior appreciation luncheons held ognized what I have done in the past. I in his hometown. understand how policy is made, how bud- “Seniors have been great to me. They gets are put together and how priorities are don’t ask much; they are reluctant to ask. determined,” said Festa. “I can be a lead So the idea of throwing a free lunch where advocate in the public eye as issues come seniors could hang out, listen to some up.” Festa also knows many of the state’s entertainment, have a little fun for a few legislators, the governor and his team, and hours, really appealed to me,” said Festa the current Elder Affairs Secretary, Ann during a 2007 Advocate interview. Hartstein. “It’s the door-opening that comes “When I left the district attorney’s office with the long-standing relationships,” he in 1981 and began to practice law in said. He also acknowledges that those Melrose, the client base included seniors. relationships reach across both sides of And as an attorney, you get to know the the aisle, as befitting his new appointment intimate concerns of your clients. They to the non-partisan AARP. “The 50-plus have financial concerns, health issues … so, community is a common language we will you build up an appreciation for their chal- have,” he said. lenges,” he said during that same interview. In this role, Festa will lead the develop- As a representative, Festa was visible, ment and delivery of AARP’s community accessible and caring toward the population programs, advocacy and information for its he was elected to serve, according to those members. advocates representing the state’s older During a recent interview with the population and caregivers. Advocate, Festa talked about his new role as He was the lead sponsor of the “Equal AARP head, a position he admits has extra Choice for Senior and Disabled Persons” challenges in the still very weak economy. law and led successful efforts to increase He talked about the differences from his state and federal funding for home care, time at Elder Affairs to today’s climate for long term care and elder protective ser- the aging population. vices. During his tenure he received “Now I am seeing that 50 plus popula- the Outstanding Achievement and tion, not as a government bureaucrat but as Representative of the Year award from the a state director who is trying to give voice Silver Haired Legislature in 2006. The to over 800,000 AARP members,” he said. Massachusetts Home Care Federation rec- “There are major issues when you speak ognized him as Elder Advocate of the Year of the economy and money and deficits that in 1999 and 2006. seniors are caught up in. With the cost of Upon learning about Festa’s AARP living stuff, the cost of fuel, food … those appointment, Mass Home Care head Al have exacerbated over time,” he said. Norman said, “Mike Festa combines execu- “I just enjoy being with an organization tive experience in state elder affairs with — AARP — that is in the forefront of issues legislative expertise and intuitive advocacy that affect the senior population. Joining at skills. He will be a terrific resource not just this time, the emphasis is not just the older for AARP, but for the entire elderly popula- seniors, but also the 50 plus world. There tion in the state.” are people in their 50s who are part of the It was Festa’s experience and knowledge sandwich generation. They are raising kids that appealed to Gov. Deval Patrick, when or grandkids. They are taking care of their he tapped him to head the state’s Elder frail elders. We want to connect with them Affairs office. more as an organization.” The Romney administration had down- He spoke of the difficulty people over graded the Elder Affairs secretariat to the the age of 50 have finding work. “There’s point of irrelevancy by removing the inde- pendent status that had it positioned direct- LEADER page 8
Fifty Plus Advocate April 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com 7 Viewpoint Social Security Chained CPI: How much would you lose? By Linda F. Fitzgerald CPI, is circulating in Washington. Proponents describe it when the cost of something you normally buy rises, you as simply a technical adjustment to better calculate the can simply switch to a lower-cost substitute. ne million Massachusetts residents age 65 and over cost of living. If only life were that easy. receive Social Security. While the average annual But in reality, this adjustment is a significant benefit cut. For most of us, it is not simply a matter of comparative Obenefit of $14,200 is less than many people think, Over the course of a lifetime, the chained CPI would cost shopping at the supermarket. We already choose lower the fact is Social Security keeps more than 40 percent of the average senior thousands of dollars. The cut would get cost options, and we also spend much of our money on Bay State seniors who receive it out of poverty. deeper each year as we grow older. basic goods such as health care and utilities that don’t have For many of us, Social Security has become an eco- This proposal would take a disproportionate toll on lower-cost substitutes. nomic lifeline. Seniors are living longer, and costs are ris- women, who typically live longer than men, are more Social Security is a self-financed program that provides ing for health care, medicine and utilities. likely to rely on income from Social Security and are more earned benefits. It didn’t cause the deficit and it shouldn’t Meanwhile, our interest rates on savings likely to be poor. be cut to fix Washington’s budget problem. and home equity are shrinking. A 92-year-old woman or man receiving Social Security The next time you hear an elected official in Washington would lose a full month’s worth of benefits. Is there anyone talk about the great value of Social Security or how the who thinks the typical 92-year-old has that kind of money middle class is the backbone of America, ask what that AARP and You to spare? Is this really the kind of priority we’re proud to official’s view is on chained CPI. This is where the rhetoric set for our country? meets the real-life record of those who represent us. We will Social Security is also critically impor- Just last year, we heard from so many politicians who be listening closely, and urging our members to make their tant for younger people who receive survi- promised never to cut Social Security for today’s seniors. And voices heard to protect their hard-earned benefits. vors or disability benefits from this program. My family yet the chained CPI shreds that promise, cutting benefits that Find out how much you would lose under the chained knows this first-hand. When my son-in-law Chuck passed current seniors have earned through a lifetime of hard work. CPI plan. Visit aarp.org/whatyoulose. away suddenly five years ago, Social Security kept his family Supporters of the chained CPI portray it as a more accu- going. As the survivor of a deceased worker, his teenage rate reading of the cost-of-living. That assessment reflects Linda Fitzgerald is the volunteer state president of AARP son receives Social Security benefits — benefits that Chuck a profound misunderstanding of the real-life choices most Massachusetts, which represents more than 800,000 mem- earned during his working life. seniors confront to make ends meet. bers age 50 and older in the Bay State. Connect with AARP That’s why we all need to be vigilant and well-informed First of all, the current CPI does not even recognize that Massachusetts online at www.aarp.org/ma; Like us at www. about attempts to cut our hard-earned Social Security ben- seniors spend more on health care, which grows faster than facebook.com/AARPMA and follow us on www.twitter.com/ efits. Right now an innocuous sounding plan, the chained overall inflation. And second, the chained CPI assumes that AARPMA. Two guys in a restaurant: The truth about government spending By Al Norman to the light to see if they have authentic eral spending began, it was obvious to mean 712,882 less meals on wheels for watermarks — but both bills are the real some that reduced government spend- Massachusetts seniors, 171,492 less meals hese two guys walk into a restaurant thing. ing would have the same impact on the at congregate meal sites, 117,662 fewer and order a sirloin steak — well Despite this simple transaction, there economy as reduced private spending. rides, 2,783 less hours of legal aid, 20,183 Tdone. One of the men is a social are many people, including some econo- The Congressional Budget Office pre- fewer information counseling sessions and worker at the local welfare office, and the mists, who say that the man who got his dicted that the sequester cuts ($42 billion 2,067,576 lost gallons of home heating oil other is the branch manager of an area $20 bill from the government is somehow of which will happen in this federal fiscal assistance. bank. Both guys leave a of less value than the man who works year which ends Sept. 30) would result in Our public spending is a great stimulus $20 bill under their plate. in the private sector. Many members of the loss of about half a percentage point to the economy, and slashing payrolls or Congress also believe that “the government of Gross Domestic Product for this year. cancelling government contracts all hurt does not create jobs.” The only job-creators Even worse, the sequester will mean a the economy. It is a myth that only private Push you hear them talk about are the private loss of 750,000 jobs. Using my restaurant sector spending matters, and that govern- Back entrepreneurs. Anyone employed in the analogy, those 750,000 workers won’t be ment spending is bad for the economy. public sector is a drag on the economy and buying lunch at the restaurant. And that’s The next time someone starts ranting While clearing the the taxpayer. Yet back at the restaurant, the a real loss to that business. Eighty-Five to you about how government spending is table, the waitress sees the waitress cannot tell the difference between billion dollars a year is only about a half bad for the economy, open up your wallet two $20 bills, and detects no difference the customers. Her restaurant took in $40. of 1 percent of the U.S. economy. But and pull out two $1 bills. Ask your friend between the bills — even though one cus- The public dollar and the private dollar the point is: Government itself can be to identify which bill is the public dollar? tomer worked for the government, and the spending created the same impact on the an engine for growth, and slowing down other works in the private sector. economy. government spending slows down the Al Norman is the executive director of Mass In point of fact, the $20 bills are iden- On March 1, when the automatic recovery. Home Care. He can be reached at 413-772- tical. The waitress holds them both up sequester cuts of $85 billion in fed- In addition, the sequester as passed will 6289, or at [email protected]. ➤ Leader Festa said he will not be chained to a ers. I have been in my office with the door position. “From personal experience I desk, but plans to visit cities and towns shut, (getting to know clients) intimate- appreciate the value of the independent Cont. from page 7 across the state, saying, “We don’t want to ly,” Festa said. secretariat,” he said. “We are confident that lose sight of where the real action is … in Festa said every budget, whether it is sooner or later that view will prevail — a lot of prejudice out there that has to be the community. state or federal, is a statement of values. and we hope that there will be a healthy dealt with,” he said. “AARP is a very big national (organiza- “It is the government and society saying compromise and acknowledgement that “I am not as constrained as one would tion). We are leading the fight against the these are the things that matter,” he said, it’s a win-win. To have that voice in the be in an administration. There were some chained CPI (consumer price index used singling out cuts in home care that have cabinet is a voice that is needed, and it things (then) that I could not say or do. for determining Social Security increases); resulted in a waiting list for vulnerable, strengthens the hand of the administration There are the rules of the road in a gov- we are fighting to preserve Medicare. These financially-strapped seniors. When a small to figure out where priorities should be. ernment role. Part of taking this job is are big national issues. But, every member investment, totaling in the hundreds, is Frankly, it gives confidence to the public that a lot of the issues that I care about lives in a community, we need to relate to given to a frail senior to remain living that this very important segment of society are shared by AARP. To me it’s like riding them more where they live and what they independently, it reduces the thousands of is part of the conversation.” a bike again.” do,” he said. dollars it would cost for institutional care, In the meantime, the state’s 50 plus pop- Festa admits the AARP role is much While his government job was dealing Festa said, adding, “I don’t think as advo- ulation can rest easier knowing that a very more expansive than the narrow focus of with numbers, his experience as an attor- cates we can ever concede there are other capable advocate is working on its behalf. program development and money. “We ney taught him to see faces. “When you priorities. The reason why government are looking across society and putting are a lawyer counseling families who are exists is to reflect the will of society. The Sondra Shapiro is the executive editor of our stamp on things like volunteerism,” challenged with estate planning, trying to people who are affected by home care cuts the Fifty Plus Advocate. Email her at sshapiro. he said. “There are a lot of members who preserve the few assets they have accumu- want to stay at home longer, to enjoy life’s [email protected]. And follow her want to be more engaged and we want to lated and the squeeze they feel, there is a experiences in their home.” online at www.facebook.com/fiftyplusadvocate, be that connective tissue. We also want scariness regarding long-term care choices. Finally, Festa said AARP will work to www.twitter.com/shapiro50plus or www.fifty- provide outreach.” I witnessed the challenges faced by caregiv- re-establish Elder Affairs as a cabinet level plusadvocate.com. 8 Fifty Plus Advocate April 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com ReServe Boston helps Do You Want boomers rejuvenate careers By Brian Goslow something fulfilling and exciting. FREE HOUSING INFORMATION “A lot of individuals who were over 55 BOSTON — found themselves in a very challenging Membership development coordinator at a situation (during the recession) where, it mailed to you? statewide gerontology association. wasn’t just that they were too young to Volunteer income tax assistance site coor- retire — and there are still many, many dinator at a one-stop career center. people in that situation — but there were Please check off all the facilities that you would like to Fundraising campaign manager at a Boston many people who found they really didn’t area university. even have the option to retire,” Rubin said. receive free, no obligation information from. You can check These are a sample of the job opportu- “Their retirement funds had lost value, they nities currently available through ReServe were out of work, whatever the case may be. off as many locations as you like. Your name will not be used Greater Boston, a recently estab- “These individuals want to for any other purpose. Fill out the coupon, cut out and mail lished nonprofit agency that take their talents and pivot matches professionals 55 and into something new because back to us at the address below. older with nonprofit and gov- their occupation or even entire ernment agencies seeking highly industry is not going to come skilled workers. back for them. ReServe gives Affordable 55+ ReServe Greater Boston is them an opportunity to move operated by Boston-based JVS in into a non-profit or a public Apartments: collaboration with Discovering organization and use their tal- What’s Next of Newton. The ents and skills, whatever those national ReServe office is based may be, in a very different R Lincoln Village - Worcester in New York City. industry.” Brookhaven The organization was started Rubin said the ReServe in 2005 by three entrepreneurs Assisted Living Facilities: Rubin model works most successfully who wanted to address the lack when people take their transfer- of opportunities for older adults looking able skills and apply them to a new setting R Briarwood - Assisted Living, Worcester to put their professional skills to good use and learn that new profession on the job. after the conclusion of the primary part of “For example, if somebody is an accountant their career. from a large accounting firm, they could Rest Homes: JVS’ stated mission is to “empower apply those skills to a human service agency individuals from diverse communities to and learn the world of human services,” he Briarwood find employment and build careers, and said. “They’re bringing very strong transfer- R Brookhaven - West Brookfield to partner with employers to hire, develop rable skills and learning the environment. and retain productive workforces.” “It’s important for people to think about R Dodge Park - Rest Home, Worcester Discovering What’s Next seeks to inspire all that they have done and really value it “a new way of thinking about life and work and put a value on it because the organiza- after 50 through personal discovery, peer tions we’re placing ReServists in need that support, focused resources and dynamic talent and are willing to pay for that talent.” Subsidized programming” for older adults seeking to Participating organizations pay an hourly Dodge Park Apartments: remain actively engaged through retirement fee for services provided by ReServists, alternatives. two-thirds of which goes to the worker The three-way partnership originated with the other third divided between JVS/ R Bet Shalom - Worcester at a meeting two years ago between JVS ReServe and a company that oversees the Dodge Park Rest Home CEO Jerry Rubin and Phyllis Siegel, who payroll administration. R Colony Retirement - Worcester serves on ReServe’s national board and lives One of the first Boston ReServists is man- in Boston. aging a group of volunteers providing free At the time, JVS was looking for a way tax assistance for low-income individuals. R Emanuel Village - Worcester to provide opportunities for older workers. In its early months, most of ReServe Bet Shalom “I told her (Siegel) that in our career Boston’s staffing opportunities have been moves division work and efforts around inside the Route 128 Greater Boston region Dodge Park Rest Home R Green Hill Towers - Worcester professionals in the job market, we were with one partnership with a Framingham really finding a great deal of challenge with organization. R Village @ older workers because of the recession,” “Our goal is to expand the capacity of Ascension Heights Rubin said. “Even as the job market was the non-profit and public sector to address improving, older workers were really tak- community and social challenges and - Worcester ing it on the chin and just having a very opportunities,” Rubin said. “There are just Colony Retirement hard time getting back to their original jobs wonderful organizations that are out there and careers.” looking for this talent and our goal is to Siegel suggested Rubin explore the match them up.” ReServe model. The ReServe Greater Boston ReServe Greater Boston invites anyone office compliments others in New York City, who’s recently found him- or herself out of Baltimore, Miami, Milwaukee, Newark and work or is looking to re-enter the workforce New York State’s Westchester County. to visit its downtown Boston office for one of FREE HOUSING INFORMATION JVS’ career moves division focuses specif- its First Impressions informational sessions, (PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY) ically on professionals who are trying to find which are currently filled through May. employment and trying to restart or change “If people are thinking about what Name careers. While ReServe and Discovering they’re going to do next, I encourage them What’s Next concentrate on older workers, to come to one of our sessions,” Rubin said. Address the individuals JVS services range from just “We’ll help them walk through the oppor- City State Zip out of college to mature workers. tunities we have available and have them The needs of older workers changed sig- really think through their talents and how Phone nificantly when the recession hit. Previously, they can be applied in a really fantastic way.” \Attn: Free Fifty Plus Housing Information JVS’s career moves department focused on Fifty Plus Advocate, 131 Lincoln St., Worcester, MA 01605 individuals with lots of talents and skills For more information on ReServe Greater who were “too young to retire” and wanted Boston, visit reserveinc.org/greaterboston or *We cannot process without your phone number. It will be used only in regard to the properties that z-2 to give back and utilize their talents doing call 617-399-3191. you have marked. 4.13
Fifty Plus Advocate April 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com 9 Feeling Healthy Sponsored by: Mediterranean-style diets found to cut heart risks By Marilynn Marchione about 7 percent dropped out within saw fewer problems in the two groups on two years. There were twice as many Mediterranean diets. our on the olive oil, preferably dropouts in the low-fat group than Doctors tracked a composite of heart over fish and vegetables: One of among those eating Mediterranean- attacks, strokes or heart-related deaths. Pthe longest and most scientific style. There were 96 of these in the Mediterranean- tests of a Mediterranean diet suggests Researchers also provided the nuts olive oil group, 83 in the Mediterranean- this style of eating can cut the chance and olive oil, so it didn’t cost partici- nut group and 109 in the low-fat group. of suffering heart-related problems, pants anything to use these relatively Looked at individually, stroke was the especially strokes, in older people at pricey ingredients. The type of oil may only problem where type of diet made a high risk of them. have mattered — they used extra- big difference. Diet had no effect on death The study lasted five years and virgin olive oil, which is minimally rates overall. involved about 7,500 people in Spain. processed and richer than regular or The Mediterranean diet proved better Those who ate Mediterranean-style light olive oil in the chemicals and even though its followers ate about 200 with lots of olive oil or nuts had a 30 nutrients that earlier studies have calories more per day than the low-fat percent lower risk of major cardio- suggested are beneficial. group did. The study leaders now are vascular problems compared to those The study involved people ages 55 analyzing how each of the diets affected who were told to follow a low-fat diet to 80, just over half of them women. weight gain or loss and body mass index. but who in reality, didn’t cut fat very All were free of heart disease at the start The Spanish government’s health much. Mediterranean meant lots of but were at high risk for it because of research agency initiated and paid for fruit, fish, chicken, beans, tomato health problems — half had diabetes the study, and olive oil and nut produc- sauce, salads and wine and little baked and most were overweight and had ers in Spain and the California Walnut goods and pastries. sure, and researchers did not alter those high cholesterol and blood pressure. Commission supplied the food. Many of Mediterranean diets have long been proven treatments, said one study leader, They were assigned to one of three the authors have extensive financial ties to touted as heart-healthy, but that’s based on Dr. Ramon Estruch of Hospital Clinic in groups: Two followed a Mediterranean diet food, wine and other industry groups but observational studies that can’t prove the Barcelona. supplemented with either extra-virgin olive said the sponsors had no role in design- point. The new research is much stronger But as a first step to prevent heart oil (4 tablespoons a day) or with walnuts, ing the study or analyzing and reporting because people were assigned diets to fol- problems, “we think diet is better than a hazelnuts and almonds (a fistful a day). its results. low for a long time and carefully monitored. drug” because it has few if any side effects, The third group was urged to eat a low- Rachel Johnson, a University of Vermont Doctors even did lab tests to verify that the Estruch said. “Diet works.” fat diet heavy on bread, potatoes, pasta, professor who heads the American Heart Mediterranean diet subjects were consum- People in the study were not given rigid rice, fruits, vegetables and fish and light Association’s nutrition committee, said ing more olive oil or nuts as recommended. menus or calorie goals because weight loss on baked goods, nuts, oils and red meat. the study is very strong because of the lab Most of these people were taking medi- was not the aim. That could be why they Independent monitors stopped the cines for high cholesterol and blood pres- found the “diets” easy to stick with — only study after nearly five years when they MEDITERRANEAN page 12 Quality Home Medical Equipment
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Fifty Plus Advocate April 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com 11 Study sees prostate cancer treatment side effects new study shows how important remove the prostate are common treat- problems. who are having problems are more likely it is for men to carefully consider ments when the disease is confined to the “These men do get some help from to complete follow-up surveys because A treatments for early-stage pros- gland. pills like Viagra, Cialis, Levitra,” but it they’re angry, so that could skew results, tate cancer. Fifteen years after surgery or Men usually live a long time after may not be as much as they would like he noted. radiation treatment, nearly all of the older treatment — 14 years on average — so and most men would rather not need Still, “it’s a high percentage” with side men in the study had some problems hav- it’s important to see how they fare, said those pills, Penson said. effects, said Wilson, who has been a paid ing sex. another study leader, Vanderbilt’s Dr. The National Cancer Institute paid for speaker for two makers of surgery equip- About one-fifth had bladder or bowel Matthew Resnick. the study. Two authors have consulted for ment. trouble, researchers found. The study involved 1,655 men diag- several makers of prostate cancer treat- “There’s no question we overtreat” The study doesn’t compare these men nosed in 1994 or 1995, when they were ment drugs. many cases of early prostate cancer, yet — who were 70 to 89 at the end of the ages 55 to 74. About two-thirds of them No study is perfect and this one the disease is still the second-leading study — to others who did not treat their had surgery and the rest, radiation. They has many limitations, said Dr. Timothy cause of cancer deaths in men. “We need cancers or to older men without the dis- were surveyed two, five and 15 years Wilson, urology chief at City of Hope, to better sort out who really needs treat- ease. At least one study suggests that half later. By that time, 569 had died. a cancer center in Duarte, Calif. Men ment,” he said. — AP that age group has sexual problems even Men who had surgery had more prob- when healthy. lems in the first few years after their treat- ➤ Mediterranean Rouge, Louisiana, said he would give the The study isn’t a rigorous test of sur- ments than those given radiation, but by study “a positive — even glowing — com- gery and radiation, but it is the longest the end of the study, there was no big Cont. from page 10 ment” and called it “the best and certainly follow-up of some men who chose those difference. one of the largest prospective dietary trials treatments. After 15 years, 18 percent of the sur- tests to verify oil and nut consumption ever done.” Since early prostate cancers usually gery group and 9 percent of the radiation and because researchers tracked actual “The data are sufficiently strong to don’t prove fatal but there are no good group reported urinary incontinence, and heart attacks, strokes and deaths — not convince me to move my dietary pattern ways to tell which ones really need treat- 5 percent of the surgery group and 16 just changes in risk factors such as high closer to the Mediterranean Diet that they ment, men must be realistic about side percent of the radiation group said they cholesterol. outline,” he added. effects they might suffer, said one study were bothered by bowel problems. But “At the end of the day, what we care Another independent expert also leader, Dr. David Penson of Vanderbilt the differences between the two groups about is whether or not disease develops,” praised the study as evidence diet can University. could have occurred by chance alone she said. “It’s an important study.” lower heart risks. “They need to look at these findings once researchers took other factors such Rena Wing, a weight-loss expert at “The risk reduction is close to that and say, ‘Oh my gosh, no matter what I as age and the size of the men’s tumors Brown University, noted that researchers achieved with statins,” cholesterol-low- choose, I’m going to have some quality- into account. provided the oil and nuts, and said “it’s ering drugs, said Dr. Robert Eckel, a diet of-life effect and it’s probably greater than Impotence was “near universal” at 15 not clear if people could get the same and heart disease expert at the University my doctor is telling me,’ ” he said. years, the authors write — 94 percent of results from self-designed Mediterranean of Colorado. Prostate cancer is the most common the radiation group and 87 percent of the diets” — or if Americans would stick to “But this study was not carried out or cancer in American men. In the United surgery group. But the difference between them more than Europeans who are used intended to compare diet to statins or blood States alone, there were about 240,000 the groups also was considered possibly to such foods. pressure medicines,” he warned. “I don’t new cases and 28,000 deaths from the due to chance. Also, less than half of men Dr. George Bray of the Pennington think people should think now they can disease last year. Radiation or surgery to said they were bothered by their sexual Biomedical Research Center in Baton quit taking their medicines.” — AP Caring for your memory impaired loved one! 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KRPHDQGZLWKRQO\D2QH Monthly Support Groups “Open to Public” VW7XHVGD\RIHYHU\PRQWKIRUVSRXVHVRILQGLYLGXDOVZLWKPHPRU\LPSDLUPHQWV QG7XHVGD\RIHYHU\PRQWKIRUFKLOGUHQRISDUHQWVZLWKPHPRU\LPSDLUPHQWV t.FEJDBM%JSFDUPS%S%BWJE8FJOTUPDL t%FNFOUJBTQFDJGJDBDUJWJUZQSPHSBNEBZTBXFFL t(FSJBUSJD1TZDIJBUSJTUDPOTVMUBOU%S1IJMJQ(PUUMJFC t0VUJOHBOEQSPGFTTJPOBMFOUFSUBJONFOUT tIPVSBEBZ3/TFSWJDFTt'SFTIMZQSFQBSFENFBMT tAll inclusive ADL DBSFBUOPBEEJUJPOBMDIBSHF If your loved one’s funds are ever depleted they will still be able to stay at Dodge Park* *Subject to EAEDC approval. * The new Tax Reduction Act of 2005 mandated that seniors spend- down all of their combined assets before the sick spouse can qualify into a nursing home. The act requires a 5-year look back for any transfers by 101 Randolph Rd., Worcester, MA www.dodgepark.com seniors designed to deprive the state of those available resources to pay for the nursing home. In a Rest Home setting it is only 1 year look back!!! 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Locally owned and operated · Serving all of Worcester County Subsidized senior housing with a meal O ! F E S O C program option that makes us different! E E! F SERVI RVIC Colony Retirement Home III is Colony Retirement Homes I are congregate housing for seniors. Enjoy garden style studio apartments, located in a country-like setting. A short walk takes nutritious “Home Cooked Meals,” served At Colony you to shopping centers, banks, restaurants in our attractive dining room with your and the bus line. A little bit of the country neighbors and friends. we let you adjacent to the city. choose! All apartments at Colony Retirement Homes receive rental assistance through the HUD section 8 program. Rent is 30% of your adjusted monthly income. Rent includes all utilities except phone and cable TV. Call Monday thru Friday, COLONY RETIREMENT HOM E S III : Congregate Housing 9am to 5 pm for more information. COLONY RETIREMENT HOM E S INC. I 101 Chadwick Street, Worcester 485 Grove Street, Worcester (508) 755-0444 (508) 852-5285 COLONY RETIREMENT HOMES Worcester, MA Not For Profit Corporation www.colonyretirementhomes.com Fifty Plus Advocate April 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com 13 Travel and Entertainment By Victor Block Even this long list of attractions and activities doesn’t exhaust the possibilities. The somewhat oddly named Air DELAWARE — Mobility Command Museum, which is housed in a World n a museum as eclectic as it is entertaining, my wife War II hanger, is home to more than two-dozen aircraft. Fyllis and I gaze at an exhibit that rekindles memories They include an open-cockpit biplane and a retired jumbo of our youthful jitterbugging days. Later, we chat with jet whose passengers included U.S. presidents and vice Ia young man steering a plow pulled by six sturdy presidents and the Queen of England. horses. The Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge encom- Welcome to Kent County, a surprisingly inviting des- passes 16,000 acres of habitat for waterfowl, songbirds, tination where touches of history, which greet visitors shorebirds and other wildlife. Close-up animal encounters around every corner, combine with vestiges of contempo- are available for those who set out on gentle walking trails rary life in the slow lane. or who prefer drive-by sightings from their car. The historic center of Dover, Delaware’s capital, retains The section of the Coastal Heritage Scenic Byway that the charm it did when laid out by William Penn in 1683. runs through Kent County meanders through marshlands The Dover Green is where a Continental Regiment that skirt Delaware Bay and leads to small fishing villages. was mustered during the Revolution, and where, in 1787, A personal favorite was Leipsic, a tiny hamlet where work- Delaware’s delegates gathered at the Golden Fleece Tavern Amish baker at Spence’s Bazaar ing boats used for fishing, crabbing and oystering often are to ratify the Constitution, making it “the first state.” Delaware native Eldridge Johnson founded the Victor tied up at the dock. Fyllis and I received a lesson in crab- The Old State House, completed in 1791, served as Talking Machine Company in 1901. The museum, which bing from two watermen as they unloaded bushel baskets Delaware’s Capitol for more than 140 Years, until the honors him, houses collections of more than 100,000 old of creepy, crawly crustaceans they had just retrieved from Legislative Hall replaced it in 1933. A five-minute audio- records, antique phonographs and memorabilia that trace the traps they tend. visual presentation followed by a guided tour brings to life the history of recorded sound. Especially amusing is an the people who once deliberated within the walls of the assortment of early hand-cranked “talking machines” with For more information about Dover and Kent County, call graceful Georgian-style structure. oversized listening horns. 800-233-5368 or log onto www.visitdover.com. Located around the corner from the imposing Old State An introduction to a more contemporary chapter of his- House is the tiny John Bell House, which dates from the tory is available at farmers’ markets that take place in and mid-1700s. It was owned by three generations of a family around Dover. Our stroll through Spence’s Bazaar com- that operated a series of taverns around The Green. bined the usual appeals of a sprawling open-air shopping The little wooden experience and a first encounter with representatives of the structure now serves Amish community that has found a home in the area. as an interpretive cen- Dressed in their distinctive “plain people” attire, the ter and the starting Amish offer for sale a variety of fresh-baked breads and point for tours. Our pies, homemade fudge and other hard-to-resist, diet-bust- costumed “historical ing foods. Non-edible items included a jukebox, priced at interpreter” shared $2,200, which contained records with songs like At the Hop information that and See You Later Alligator, which prompted memories of ranged from facts and our long-past teenage years. figures to interesting Equally enjoyable were encounters with the Amish tidbits about life as it lifestyle during a drive in the countryside. We passed tiny was when members shops and tidy farms that line narrow, winding roads. A of the Bell family lived young man guiding a six-horse team pulling a plow paused Johnson Victrola Museum there. to chat with us. After taking in our fill of early Americana, Fyllis and I The main feature at Shady Lane Selections is a large col- set our sights on the long list of other attractions in and lection of quilts, one of which Salina Yoder was working around Dover. A short stroll led us to the Johnson Victrola on when we arrived. She was using a foot-pedal-powered Museum, which we found to be as fascinating in its own sewing machine, in keeping with the Amish practice of way as our truncated history lesson. eschewing electricity. Colonials parading on The Green Our adult day care is there for you. 6XSHUYLVHGFDUHXSWRKRXUVSHUGD\0RUH 'DLO\$FWLYLWLHV,QFOXGH Exercise, Music, Art DIIRUGDEOHWKDQDQ\RWKHUFDUHRSWLRQ and Intergenerational Programs, among others. 7KHGD\FOXEDOORZVPHPEHUVWRVSHQGWKHGD\LQ 0HDOVLQFOXGHG DFRPIRUWDEOHVWLPXODWLQJHQYLURQPHQW “Caring for your family THE ADULT DAY CLUB at Dodge Park members since 1967.” 5DQGROSK5RDG:RUFHVWHU0$www.dodgepark.com Call Ben or Mike at 508-853-8180 for a free, no obligation tour. DAY CLUB AVAILABLE 7AM - 7PM, SEVEN DAYS A WEEK. YOU CHOOSE ONLY THE HOURS YOU WANT! 14 Fifty Plus Advocate April 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com “State of the Art Healthcare Environment” We offer: 5HVSLWHDQG+RVSLFH&DUH 5HVWDXUDQWVW\OHGLQLQJURRP 3727675HKDEVHUYLFHV GD\VDZHHN %ULJKWDQGDLU\URRPV$FWLYLWLHV GD\VDZHHN /RQJWHUPDQGVKRUWWHUPFDUH )XOOWLPH3K\VLFLDQ$VVLVWDQW &DEOH79DQGWHOHSKRQHVDYDLODEOHLQHDFKURRP $QFLOODU\6HUYLFHV GHQWDOH\HSRGLDWU\SURYLGHGDW &RQWLQXLQJFDUHFRPPXQLW\ 5HVLGHQWFRPSXWHUZLWKIUHHDFFHVVWRLQWHUQHW WKHQXUVLQJFHQWHU 3HWWKHUDS\WKURXJK7XIWV9HWHULQDU\3URJUDP -&$+2DFFUHGLWHG 6FKHGXOHDWRXUWRGD\ %ULDUZRRG&LUFOH:RUFHVWHU0$ ZLWK7UDFH\.LQJ +RVSLWDO/LDLVRQ 508-853-6910 FDOO “A part of Briarwood Continuing Care Retirement Community” ZZZNQROOZRRGQXUVLQJFHQWHUFRP Fifty Plus Advocate April 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com 15 Resource for Caregivers Elder abuse, use of shelters rising By Dan Sewell 64, and the number of people 85 and over elderly client was wincing in pain and got her last year, he said. is increasing even faster rate. The number of to acknowledge she had been hit in the ribs There are no longer enough adult protec- MASON, Ohio — seniors being abused, exploited or neglected by a relative. Another Shalom Center patient tive services investigators to routinely check he raises her hands to her snow-white every year is often estimated at about was referred by sheriff’s detectives who on older adults unless there is a specific report hair in a gesture of frustrated bewilder- 2 million, judging by available sta- said his son beat him. of abuse or neglect. Sment, then slowly lowers them to cover tistics and surveys, but experts “Are these older people going “We do the best we can down here,” Gregg eyes filling with tears. The woman, in her 70s, say the number could be much to be allowed to live their lives said, noting that the agency has a hotline to is trying to explain how she wound up in a higher. Some research indicates the way they deserve to?” said take anonymous reports and that it is seeing shelter that could well be where she spends that 1 in 10 seniors have suf- Carol Silver Elliott, CEO of the more financial scams targeting elderly people. the rest of her life. fered some form of abuse at Cedar Village retirement com- The price for not getting ahead of the While the woman was living with a close least once. munity, of which the Shalom problem and preventing abuse of people who family member, officials at the Shalom Center “That’s a big number,” said Center is a part. “We really are would otherwise be healthy and financially say, her money was being drained away by Sharon Merriman-Nai, project not addressing it as a society stable will be high, warned Joy Solomon, a people overcharging for her grocery shop- director of the Clearinghouse the way we should.” former Manhattan assistant prosecutor who ping, while her body and spirit were sapped on Abuse and Neglect of the The Obama administration helped pioneer elder abuse shelters with the by physical neglect and emotional torment. Elderly, based at the University has said it has increased its focus Weinberg Center for Elder Abuse Prevention, She says she was usually ordered to “go to of Delaware. “It’s a huge issue, and on protecting American seniors by which opened in 2005 at the Hebrew Home bed,” where she lay in a dark room, upset, it’s just going to get bigger.” establishing a national resource center community in New York City. unable to sleep. Recognition of and mechanisms for and a consumer protection office, among “My argument always is, if all you do is “She just yelled at me all the time. dealing with elder abuse are many years other steps. But needs are growing at a time come in when the crisis has occurred, it is Screamed at me, cussed me out,” the woman behind strides that have been made in child when government spending on social services much more costly than preventative care,” said of a family member. “I don’t know what abuse awareness and protection, according is being cut on many levels or not keeping said Solomon, director of the shelter, which happened. She just got tired of me, I guess.” to experts. up with demand. takes in about 15 people a year. “We’re going The Shalom Center offers shelter, along Getting comprehensive numbers of the In Ohio, slowly recovering from the reces- to have to pay for it anyway.” with medical, psychological and legal help, abused is complicated, said experts, because sion, budgets have been slashed in such areas She and others in the field say the first steps to elderly abuse victims in this northern the vast majority of cases go unreported out of as staffs that investigate elderly abuse cases. are to raise public awareness and train police, Cincinnati suburb. It is among a handful in embarrassment, fear of being cut off from fam- Staff at the Jobs and Family Services lawyers, criminal justice officials and others the country that provide sanctuary from such ily — most abuse is at the hands of relatives agency in Hamilton County in Cincinnati is to recognize and respond to signs of abuse. treatment, a problem experts say is growing — or confusion about what has happened. about half the size it was in 2009, spokesman Prosecutors often have been reluctant along with the age of the nation’s population. Abuse sometimes comes to light only by Brian Gregg said. Even as national statistics to purse elder abuse cases, which can be The number of Americans 65 and over is chance. County-level adult protective services indicate elder abuse is increasing, the number complex because of medical and financial projected to nearly double by 2030 because caseworkers can get anonymous tips. In one of elder abuse cases the agency can probe is of the 74 million baby boomers born in 1946- recent Ohio case, a hair stylist noticed her lower, down from 574 cases in 2009 to 477 SHELTERS page 17 With BAYADA Home Health Care… “I found the perfect match for extra help at home.” – Mary Lou A., Client t Quaboag, caring for seniors is our commitment to the community. A We’re always advancing our care, and we welcome you to see the new enhancements to our now Medicare-certified Dementia and Long-Term Care settings. Offering short-term rehab, long-term and dementia BAYADA Home Health Aide Peggy Peck with Mary Lou A. care to families in Worcester, Hampden and Hampshire Counties, Quaboag invites you to see why we have so much more than you know! 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XXXRVBCPBHPOUIFDPNNPODPN Call 508-853-4100 | www.bayada.com Compassion. Excellence. Reliability. EXCEPTIONAL CARE IS CLOSER THAN YOU THINK. 16 Fifty Plus Advocate April 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com ➤ Shelters director of the federal Consumer Financial The center marked its anniversary in if she could stay at Cedar Village permanently. Protection Bureau, initiated in 2009 the January. While more than 40 people have Caseworkers and officials at the nonprofit, Cont. from page 16 state Elder Abuse Commission, something been referred to the nonprofit, faith-based faith-based home agreed that was the best current Attorney General Mike DeWine has center, only three have gone through with place for her. complications, the witness’ ability to testify or continued. admittance, signs of the reluctance of people The center asked that her identity be reluctance to testify against relatives, accord- The commission has focused on train- who fear losing family relationships — even if protected for this story because the close rela- ing to research for the National Institute of ing and education and hopes to launch a they are bad — or the feeling of being at home. tives who allegedly abused her don’t know Justice. public awareness campaign this year, said Set up as a “virtual shelter” because victims where she is. In suburban Los Angeles, Orange County Ursel McElroy, the longtime adult protection are integrated into the full Cedar Village retire- She paints, plays in a residents’ bell choir, started an Elder Abuse Forensic Center nearly services investigator who leads it. The com- ment community, it is meant to provide 60- to plays bingo with others regularly, and has her 10 years ago; it helps police, geriatrics spe- mission also has been pushing for legisla- 90-day emergency stays while caseworkers own room and TV to watch favorites such as cialists, lawyers and social services workers tion to improve legal protection and abuse provide help and seek out the best alternative, Ellen and reruns of I Love Lucy. coordinate efforts to identify, investigate and prevention, expand training and improve such as with a different caregiver or relative. “I’ve got quite a few friends,” she said. prosecute abuse cases. statistical data. In the case of the woman who complained “They’re just nice people here. I have some- New York City started its Elder Abuse In New York, part of the Weinberg Center’s of abuse in a relative’s home, a call to adult body to talk to, and I appreciate it.” Center to 2009 to bring a multi-organization mission is to help other communities replicate protective services by someone familiar with approach to the problem, saying nearly it. It has assisted shelter startups in upstate her led to an investigation and her referral to Online: National Center on Elder Abuse, www. 100,000 older people are abused in their New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island and the shelter. ncea.aoa.gov; The Weinberg Center, www.m. homes in the city alone. While he was Ohio’s Minnesota along with the Shalom Center She has little money, health problems and hebrewhome.org/weinberg-center.asp; National attorney general, Richard Cordray, now in Ohio. few alternatives, and after a while, she asked Institute of Justice, www.tinyurl.com/a9v48yc. 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In addition, the property has one laundry room with economical card-operated machines and one community room for use by residents. There is 24-hour emergency maintenance service and VISIT the maintenance superintendent lives on site. There is also a management office located on site. www.fiftyplusadvocate.com Call the office today @ 508 791-1188 to receive your application. TODAY! Professionally Managed by Barkan Management Company. 18 Fifty Plus Advocate April 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com Moving into someone else’s home By Marianne Delorey smoke like a chimney or listen to your When you own your own home, nobody If you truly don’t understand a rule, TV at 2 a.m. Being told “no” by your new can tell you where to smoke, how much most housing providers will be glad to ne of the great adjustments many authority figure seems harsh. Often, elder or when to stop. When you move to go over your lease with you and explain people face as they age is that care workers and property managers are an apartment building, that smoke may where in the lease it says what you can Othey have less control over their younger. The mere fact that you are being bother some people, including neighbors and cannot do. It should also be clear lives. Nowhere is that more evident than told what to do by someone much young- and maintenance staff. Although you why the rule exists. Sometimes there is in their living situation. After a traumatic er can be difficult. And sometimes, the may have to give up your right to smoke flexibility, but most often, housing provid- move, elders face a new dilemma. How rules don’t make any sense. Maybe you where you please, bear in mind that you ers have a very good reason for the rules can they adjust to living can smoke in one place but not another. also don’t have the responsibility associat- they have. under somebody else’s The arbitrariness of some rules makes ed with that right. You do not have to test Good communication makes it easier, roof? them harder to swallow. Sometimes, you the smoke detector to make sure it still although not always perfectly easy, to even find that you’ve previously been an works or paint over the nicotine covered live under someone else’s roof and rules. Housing expert on something like cooking or pool walls. Better yet, you know that because A sense of humor picks up where good care but the housing manager won’t listen you are responsible for your neighbor’s communication ends. It never hurts to Options to you. comfort, he or she is responsible for laugh off some rules, as long as you fol- And then, to make matters worse, yours. low them, too. I’m sure we all have housing professionals often use less than If the housing organization tries to either heard as children or pleasant language to convey the rules. maintain a home that promotes the com- Marianne Delorey, Ph.D., is the executive said to our own children “You can do that Understand that rights follow respon- fort and well being of all, you should rest director of Colony Retirement Homes. She can when you own your own place. While you sibilities. Understanding and remember- assured knowing that your neighbors are be reached at 508-755-0444 or mdelorey@ are under my roof …” But now, in senior ing this balance will help people accept not going to be allowed to bother you. colonyretirement.com and www.colonyretire- housing, elders find the tables turned and their own role and understand that of the In turn, of course, you will need to make menthomes.com. Archives of articles from they are less in control of their setting. housing provider. sure you don’t bother them. But this is a previous issues can be read at www.fifty- Perhaps you want to paint your walls, Smoking provides a good example. small price to pay. plusadvocate.com. What is a rest home, Part 2: All parties should decide By Micha Shalev new residence, that person must take part options available for best meeting their •Has needs that cannot be met by the in the decision-making process if he/she needs. A hospital social worker, ombuds- family or community services, or the cost to ne of life’s greatest challenges is has cognitive capacity. Before the situation man program, elder services, physician or provide those services at home is unrealistic. deciding when a loved one is no becomes an emergency, it is important to the office of Massachusetts Department of •Requires higher level of care than Olonger capable of living indepen- discuss the decision thoroughly with the Public Health may be helpful. Always keep assisted living can provide but not quite dently. Often, a time of crisis precipitates individual. the individual’s needs and preferences at ready or need a nursing home placement. this decision, such as when the individual Remember, people provide care, not the forefront of the process. It is the indi- is ready to leave the hospital after a seri- facilities. Sometimes families assume a com- vidual’s lifestyle that will change, and he Micha Shalev, MHA, is the owner of Dodge ous illness, or when events munity is right for their loved one because or she has the right to be involved in this Park Rest Home and The Adult Day Club at make it clear that severe it has a high price and lavish features, but consequential decision. Dodge Park located at 101 Randolph Road in limitations exist. later realize fancy furniture and beautiful It may be time to consider a rest home Worcester. The programs specialize in provid- landscaping are not telltale indicators of when a loved one: ing care for individuals with dementia and Caregiving quality care. •Needs help with activities of daily living Alzheimer’s disease. The facility is holding a It’s important to balance optimism with (ADL), such as bathing, oral care, dressing, free monthly support group meeting on the Tips a dose of realism. Be realistic about you or grooming, toileting, diabetic care, shopping, second Tuesday of each month for spouses and your loved one’s current care needs as well preparing meals, eating, managing finances, children of individuals with dementia and/ as their anticipated care needs. Ideally, you using the phone, climbing stairs, house- or Alzheimer’s disease. He can be reached Any placement in a rest will choose a community that is equipped work, driving and other personal activities. at 508-853-8180 or by e-mail at m.shalev@ home must be done with the consent of the to provide care now and in the future as •Has progressive deterioration in their dodgepark.com or view more information individual or his or her legal agent (health your loved one ages or his cognitive ability. physical or cognitive abilities. online at www.dodgepark.com. Archives of care proxy and/or power of attorney). Since A good starting place is for the family •Shows signs of dementia and incon- articles from previous issues can be read at a rest home will become the individual’s and the individual in need to discuss the tinence. www.fiftyplusadvocate.com. FDA not getting key information on risky drugs WASHINGTON — But when HHS inspectors patients understand the risks of their he Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is not reviewed the FDA’s assessments of drugs. One patient survey included receiving key information from drugmakers about these plans, they found that the responses from just three patients. Twhether some of the riskiest prescription drugs on majority were apparently not meet- In other cases, manufacturers did the market are being used safely by doctors and patients, ing their goals of improving patient not include reports of adverse reac- according a new report by government inspectors. safety, according to the report. tions to their drugs. Other companies The report’s findings suggest that pharmaceutical Examples of goals for the plans failed to keep track of the number companies have largely ignored recent federal require- include preventing drug exposure in of doctors who had been certified to ments designed to manage the safety of high-risk pregnant women and educating doc- prescribe their products. medications. That means American patients could be at tors and patients about safety risks. Inspectors point out that these greater risk of injury from dozens of drugs with serious Only seven out of the 49 REMS drugs would probably have been side effects. plans reviewed by inspectors rejected for safety problems without The report from the Department Health and Human were meeting all their goals, according to the report. the REMS requirements. Services’ (HHS) Office of Inspector General is the first Inspectors said 21 of the plans were clearly not meet- Langford’s report concludes that drugmakers are fail- independent review of a five-year old program designed ing their goals, while another 21 were missing too much ing to follow up on REMS requirements because there is to give the FDA more control over prescription drugs. information to draw any conclusion about their perfor- little downside. The FDA cannot penalize companies that Beginning in 2008, the FDA gained the power to require mance. don’t submit all the information needed to tell whether manufacturers to develop risk-management plans for Among 19 plans for the riskiest drugs — which have REMS are working or not. The report recommends that new drugs. The plans, known as Risk Evaluation and requirements like special doctor training or limited dis- the FDA ask Congress to give the agency the power to Mitigation Strategies, or REMS, can include a range of tribution — only one was meeting all of its goals. Eight impose fines and other penalties on companies that don’t requirements: plans were not achieving their goals and another 10 were cooperate. •Patient brochures warning about drug side effects. missing too much information to draw a conclusion. While the FDA agreed with most of the report’s find- •Specialized training for doctors who prescribe some The report does not identify specific companies or ings, the agency was noncommittal on this last sugges- drugs. drugs. tion in its written comments about the report, stating, •Limited distribution of drugs by certain hospitals or In many cases, inspectors say drug manufacturers “this recommendation should be considered if another pharmacies. are not submitting enough information about whether opportunity arises to pursue legislative changes.” — AP Fifty Plus Advocate April 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com 19 Money Matters 5 ways to keep inflation from ruining retirement By Dave Carpenter average annual return of 6 percent on their of necessity or in an effort to ensure they’ll still Fahlund, a senior financial planner for invest- savings. But if inflation creeps up by just have something left to pass along to children ment firm T. Rowe Price. “Those retirements nflation is the long-term threat stalking one percent, it’s likely they would run out of and grandchildren. were maybe 10 or 15 years long. And they every portfolio. money before both reach full life expectancy. So what can be done to offset inflation had pensions.” I The effect may not be very noticeable Even modest inflation is causing Marlis besides spend less? A $100,000 cash nest egg will be worth just in the short run. But by the time you’re deep Risberg, a retired office worker from Forest For starters, you should acknowledge that $55,400 after 20 years with annual inflation into retirement, inflation can deal a devastat- Lake, Minn., to make some inflation needs to be factored into of 3 percent, as calculated by T. Rowe Price. ing blow to your savings. changes. The 70-year-old, who retirement planning. After 25 years, or age 90 for someone who Inflation’s impact is like that of high blood is divorced, started taking Social About 45 percent of retirees starts with that amount at 65, it’s down to pressure — that’s what Francis Fennie of LPL Security four years ago and finds fail to account for the effects of $41,200. Both scenarios assume a 6 percent Financial in Redwood City, Calif., tells his that the $1,000 checks don’t go inflation, according to a recent annual return on investments. clients. “You may not feel it, but if you don’t nearly as far as they used to. She study by the Society of Actuaries. That makes leaving portfolios mostly in do anything to guard against it, it’s massively also has a small pension and And only 5 percent of pre-retirees cash, CDs or other conservative investments damaging to your financial health over the some certificates of deposit, but age 45 and older have a financial with very low returns — a popular retirement long run.” it’s all barely enough for basic plan that extends to or beyond strategy in years past — a very risky gambit. Years of historically low inflation may have needs. their life expectancy — a long Better to have 40 percent to 60 percent lulled consumers into underestimating the “Gas, groceries, medical sup- time span that gives inflation in stock at retirement age; you can lower the consequences. plies — everything’s going up,” more time to erode a portfolio. percentage slightly as you get into your 70s But higher rates have finally arrived. she said. “You name me one Individuals need to take both and 80s. A balanced or blended mutual fund Consumer prices have risen 3.2 percent in thing that isn’t, aside from the rates on CDs.” inflation and longevity into consideration and that also includes a large percentage of bonds the past 12 months, the highest level in two The impact of inflation on retirees tends to plan for multiple scenarios. will lessen the risk if you’re uncomfortable and a half years. That brings inflation back be higher than that for others, too, especially Here are some moves that can help com- about being in stocks. to near its historical annual average of about in later years of retirement. A large chunk of pensate for future inflation: 2. Delay taking Social Security. 3 percent. their expenses tends to be from health care, 1. Invest for growth. You need to make Inflation protection is built into Social Many financial planners find it hard to and those costs are rising faster than overall sure your assets continue to grow and gener- Security; benefit amounts are revised annually impress upon their clients just how serious inflation. ate interest income so your purchasing power to account for cost-of-living increases. But a risk inflation can be. Risberg hears neighbors in her retirement stays intact. there were no such adjustments the last two Consider the case of a 65-year-old couple community talk every day about how their Today’s retirements can easily last two or years even while food costs climbed. And tak- with retirement savings of around $600,000. income doesn’t cover what they thought it three decades, adding to the financial chal- ing steps to ensure that your monthly check Financial models show that they should be would. Some are buying fewer groceries so lenge. is as large as possible will help in your battle able to withstand annual inflation of 3 percent they can afford their medications. Others are “If you’re planning to manage your port- against inflation. throughout their retirement, assuming they’re taking out reverse mortgages. folio in retirement the way your grandfather collecting Social Security and able to earn an They’re holding down spending, either out did, you’d better wake up,” said Christine INFLATION page 22 20 Fifty Plus Advocate April 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com Fidelity: 401(k) balances Do You Want to grew 12 percent in 2012 By Mark Jewell ing President Obama’s re-election as it Save $4,000??? appeared talks to avert the “fiscal cliff” BOSTON — would become fiercely partisan. But the Social Security Extra Help Rules Have Changed!! mployee 401(k) accounts are market recovered as negotiators slowly growing fast, thanks to the surg- made progress, ultimately reaching a You May Be One of 5,000 Beneficiaries Eing stock market and increased Jan. 1 deal to avoid severe tax increases Now Eligible for This Program. contributions from workers and their and delay spending cuts. employers. For the full year, the S&P 500 posted 1. Do you have Medicare a return of 16 percent and bonds were Prescription Drug Coverage? Employee 401(k) accounts up about 4 percent as corporate profits improved and the economy continued to 2. Is your monthly income at or are growing fast, thanks to recover from the Great Recession. below $1,373/individual, $1,841/ Fidelity estimates that about two- the surging stock market. thirds of last year’s increase in the aver- couple? age 401(k) balance was attributed to 3. Are your resources at or below The average account balance grew investment returns and one-third to nearly 12 percent last year, reported worker contributions and employer $12,510/individual, $25,010/ Fidelity Investments. The average was matches. couple? $77,300 at the end of 2012, up from Over the past 10 years, those two $69,100 a year earlier, according to components have played a roughly equal If you answered yes to these three questions, Fidelity, the nation’s largest 401(k) role in boosting account balances, with you may save up to $4,000 in prescription drug costs this year. administrator. 53 percent attributed to contributions The average balance is up sharply and 47 percent to market gains. since the stock market hit bottom in “You really need to contribute to your To find out if you qualify for early 2009, following the financial crisis. account, because those contributions this program, call your Back then, the average was $46,200. have an equal weighting to the market Regional SHINE Program at In the final three months of last year, appreciation over the long term,” said 401(k) balances rose a modest 2 per- Beth McHugh, vice president of market 1-800-AGE INFO cent. The average balance was $75,900 insights at Boston-based Fidelity. at the end of the third quarter. Investment earnings and contribu- 1-800-243-4636 (Option #3) The S&P 500 and a broad U.S. bond tions can grow tax-free in an employer- market index finished the fourth quarter sponsored 401(k) account, which is a largely unchanged, although there was key reason why they’re a popular way to SHINE (Serving the Health Information Needs of Elders) is Administered by the Mass Executive Office of Elder Affairs In plenty of drama. Stocks tumbled follow- save for retirement. — AP Partnership with the Friends of the Milford Senior Center, The Massachusetts Councils on Aging and other local agencies. Just How Well Prepared Are You? ❖ Elder Law ❖ Corp. Business Law *ULHI5HFRYHU\6HULHV ❖ ❖ Wills and Trusts Long-Term Care 2IIHUHGE\0LOHV)XQHUDO+RPH ❖ Living Wills Planning This Journey of Grief ❖ ❖ Guardianships Estate Planning )LQGLQJ Fifty Plus Advocate April 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com 21 Urge your adult children to have their own estate plan By Linda T. Cammuso your finances and sign legal documents for Although not romantic, this can safeguard safe place. And of course, no matter what your you in a disability scenario. your future financial situation. age, you should update your documents as ost informed seniors have an estate An estate plan protects your minor chil- If you don’t have a life insurance policy yet, your life situation changes. plan, but what about their adult dren. Without an estate plan, control of the it’s time. Unlike seniors, your generation can None of us knows what the future holds. Mchildren? All too often, estate plan- minor’s inheritance will be taken over by a get term life insurance inexpensively. A life Encourage your adult children to do the “adult ning is perceived as a need for only the older court-supervised guardian or conservator. insurance policy provides financial security thing” and see an attorney to draft estate plan- (and wealthier) generation. However, younger Depending on the laws of the state where the for your family if you were to die prematurely. ning documents that are appropriate to them. people, especially those with minor children, minor lives, when the minor reaches the age Insurance proceeds can be used for paying off need to have an estate plan (a will, durable of 18 or 21 all of the remaining guardianship a mortgage, outstanding medical and other Linda T. Cammuso, a founding partner at power of attorney, health care proxy and funds will be turned over to the child. If both bills, replacing lost income and for your Estate Preservation Law Offices and an estate possibly a trust) in place in parents die while the children are still minors, children’s care and education. planning professional, has extensive experi- case of a serious illness, a judge decides who will raise the children. Is It is important that individuals designated ence in estate planning, elder law and long- injury or death. that what you want for your children? in an estate plan know where to find finan- term care planning. Linda may be reached If you are thinking about marriage, a pre- cial records and passwords. Urge your adult at www.estatepreservationlaw.com or by call- Legal Briefs nuptial agreement should be considered. This children (and do this yourself) to make a list ing 508-751-5010. Archives of articles from can protect what assets you currently have or of accounts and passwords (including your previous issues may be read at www.fiftyplus significant assets that you expect to inherit. computer’s password) and put that list in a advocate.com. A common reaction from younger adults on this ➤ Inflation to receive the guaranteed lifetime income that course of a long retirement. To prepare for topic is: “Why would I want an estate plan? pensions once provided. You need to analyze that, retirees and pre-retirees alike should My house is mortgaged and I have no money Cont. from page 20 the terms carefully and choose a financially set up a separate account that can be tapped to leave to heirs. I’ll consider it later, when healthy insurance company that’s poised to periodically for additional income. I’m older and well established.” This is a If you file for Social Security benefits be around for decades. It could be a short-term bond fund with dangerous and faulty viewpoint. as soon as you’re eligible at age 62, your The initial annual payout rate for an less volatility than a stock fund, suggests Here are a few discussion points for you payments are reduced by about 30 percent inflation-indexed annuity should be about 5 Fahlund, since it is not being counted on as when speaking to your children: from what they would be at full retirement percent of the purchase price if you retire at your primary source of retirement income. Medical and financial emergencies can age — 66 to 67 depending on year of birth. age 65, said consulting actuary Steve Vernon. 5. Supplement Medicare with other insur- happen at any time. What would happen After full retirement age, the monthly check It’s likely to be a bit more if you’re a single ance. if you became disabled or incapacitated? increases by 8 percent for each additional man, a little less if you’re a single woman or Buy Medigap supplemental coverage that Who will take care of your financial and year you delay up to age 70. part of a married couple. Consumer web- fills in benefit gaps in traditional Medicare. health-care decisions? What would happen 3. Buy an inflation-indexed annuity. sites such as AnnuityAdvantage.com and And consider buying long-term care insur- to your estate if instead of dying, you became Annuities — investment products in DirectAnnuities.com provide rundowns of the ance in your 50s or 60s to help ensure disabled or incapacitated? It isn’t only seniors which you generally pay an insurance com- various types of annuities and available rates. that significant medical expenses later in who need an estate plan — you do too. At pany a sum of money and get back a stream 4. If your pension does not adjust for retirement don’t wipe out your assets. Even the very least you should have a health care of payments for life — scare off many retirees inflation, create a side account. without considering the additional costs that proxy and living will. Additionally, a durable and pre-retirees. They have a reputation for The purchasing power of your monthly advancing age brings, health care costs for power of attorney will allow a trusted family being complex and loaded with fees. But more pension payment, if you are fortunate enough families rose 7 percent in the past year and member or friend of your choice to manage financial advisers are touting them as a way to have one, will shrink dramatically over the have doubled in nine years. — AP “Waiting List Closed!” Curious about Cremation? Contact Shaw-Majercik Funeral Home and find the answers to your questions. 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MAJERCIK, DIRECTOR “Serving All Faiths” 100 YEARS OF CONTINUOUS SERVICE Veteran owned ILLYRIAN GARDENS, Inc. 48 School Street, Webster, MA 01570 545 Salisbury Street, Worcester, MA 01609 ¤¤ ÛÝÛoook`Yo¤eYb]j[ac[ge 508-753-7217 1-800-279-7429 22 Fifty Plus Advocate April 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com Medicare paid $5.1B for poor nursing home care By Garance Burke es that may be harming residents, inves- tigators said, and recommended that the SAN FRANCISCO — Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services edicare paid billions in taxpayer tie payments to homes’ abilities to meet dollars to nursing homes nation- basic care requirements. The report also Mwide that were not meeting basic recommended that the agency strengthen requirements to look after their residents, its regulations and ramp up its oversight. government investigators have found. The review did not name individual The report, released by the homes, nor did it estimate the number Department of Health and Human of patients who had been mistreated, but Services’ (DHH) inspector general, said instead looked at the overall number of Medicare paid about $5.1 billion for stays in which problems arose. patients to stay in skilled nursing facilities In response, the agency agreed that that failed to meet federal quality of care it should consider tying Medicare reim- rules in 2009, in some cases bursements to homes’ resulting in dangerous and provision of good care. neglectful conditions. CMS also said in written One out of every three comments that it is review- times patients wound up ing its own regulations to in nursing homes that year, improve enforcement at the they landed in facilities that homes. failed to follow basic care ‘‘Medicare has made sig- requirements laid out by the nificant changes to the way federal agency that adminis- we pay providers thanks ters Medicare, investigators to the health care law, to estimated. reward better quality care,’’ By law, nursing homes Medicare spokesman Brian Cook said in need to write up care plans specially tai- a statement to AP. ‘‘We are taking steps lored for each resident so doctors, nurses, to make sure these facilities have the therapists and all other caregivers are on resources to improve the quality of their the same page about how to help resi- care, and make sure Medicare is paying dents reach the highest possible levels of for the quality of care that beneficiaries physical, mental and psychological well- are entitled to.’’ being. CMS hires state-level agencies to Not only are residents often going survey the homes and make sure they without the crucial help they need, are complying with federal law, and can but the government could be spending require correction plans, deny payment taxpayer money on facilities that could or end a contract with a home if major endanger people’s health, the report con- deficiencies come to light. The agency cluded. The findings come as concerns also said it would follow up on potential about health care quality and cost are gar- enforcement at the homes featured in the nering heightened attention as the Obama report. administration implements the nation’s Greg Crist, a Washington-based sweeping health care overhaul. spokeswoman for the American Health ‘‘These findings raise concerns about Care Association, which represents the what Medicare is paying for,’’ the report largest share of skilled nursing facilities said. nationwide, said overall nursing home Investigators estimate that in one out operators are well regulated and follow of five stays, patients’ health problems federal guidelines but added that he could weren’t addressed in the care plans, fall- not fully comment on the report’s conclu- ing far short of government directives. sions without having had the chance to For example, one home made no plans read it. to monitor a patient’s use of two anti-psy- ‘‘Our members begin every treatment chotic drugs and one depression medica- with the individual’s personal health tion, even though the drugs could have needs at the forefront. This is a hands-on serious side effects. process, involving doctors and even fam- In other cases, residents got therapy ily members in an effort to enhance the they didn’t need, which the report said health outcome of the patient,’’ Crist said. was in the nursing homes’ financial inter- Virginia Fichera, who has relatives in est because Medicare would reimburse two nursing homes in New York, said them at a higher rate. she would welcome a greater push for In one example, a patient kept getting accountability at skilled nursing facilities. physical and occupational therapy even ‘‘Once you’re in a nursing home, if though the care plan said all the health things don’t go right, you’re really a pris- goals had been met, the report said. oner,’’ said Fichera, a retired professor in The Office of Inspector General’s Sterling, NY. ‘‘As a concerned relative, you report was based on medical records from just want to know the care is good, and if 190 patient visits to nursing homes in there are problems, why they are happen- 42 states that lasted at least three weeks, ing and when they’ll be fixed.’’ which investigators said gave them a Once residents are ready to go back statistically valid sample of Medicare ben- home or transfer to another facility, feder- eficiaries’ experiences in skilled nursing al law also requires that the homes write facilities. special plans to make sure patients are That sample represents about 1.1 safely discharged. million patient visits to nursing homes Investigators found the homes didn’t nationwide in 2009, the most recent year always do what was needed to ensure a for which data was available, according to smooth transition. the review. In nearly one-third of cases, facilities Overall, the review raises questions also did not provide enough information about whether the system is allowing when the patient moved to another set- homes to get paid for poor quality servic- ting, the report found. — AP Fifty Plus Advocate April 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com 23 Your chances of dying by 2023? Test offers a clue By Lindsey Tanner men and women ages 60 to 64 get weight or slim? 1 point; ages 70 to 74 get 3 points; One possible reason is that CHICAGO — and 85 or over get 7 points. thinness in older age could be a ant to know your chances of dying in the next •Two points each: a current or sign of illness, Cruz said. 10 years? Here are some bad signs: getting previous cancer diagnosis, exclud- Other factors could also play Wwinded walking several blocks, smoking and ing minor skin cancers; lung dis- a role, so the index should be having trouble pushing a chair across the room. ease limiting activity or requiring seen as providing clues but not That’s according to a “mortality index” developed by oxygen; heart failure; smoking; dif- the gospel truth, the research U.S. researchers for people older than 50. ficulty bathing; difficulty managing suggests. The test scores may satisfy people’s morbid curiosity, money because of health or memory Grants from the National but the researchers say their 12-item index is mostly for problem; difficulty walking several Institute on Aging and the use by doctors. It can help them decide whether costly blocks. American Federation for Aging health screenings or medical procedures are worth the •One point each: diabetes or Research helped pay for the risk for patients unlikely to live 10 more years. high blood sugar; difficulty pushing study. It’s best to take the test with a doctor, who can discuss large objects, such as a heavy chair; The researchers created the what the score means in the context of patients’ own being thin or normal weight. index by analyzing data on medical history, the study authors say. The highest, or worst, score is a almost 20,000 Americans over The index “wasn’t meant as guidance about how to 26, with a 95 percent chance of dying within 10 years. 50 who took part in a national health survey in 1998. alter your lifestyle,” said lead author Dr. Marisa Cruz of To get that, you’d have to be a man at least 85 years old They tracked the participants for 10 years. Nearly 6,000 the University of California, San Francisco. with all the above conditions. participants died during that time. Instead, doctors can use the results to help patients For a score of zero, which means a 3 percent chance They previously used the test to predict the risk of understand the pros and cons of such things as rigorous of dying within 10 years, you’d have to be a woman dying within four years. They said their new effort shows diabetes treatment, colon cancer screening and tests for younger than 60 without any of those infirmities — but the same index can be used to predict 10-year mortality. cervical cancer. Those may not be safe or appropriate at least slightly overweight. Dr. Stephan Fihn, a University of Washington profes- for very sick, old people likely to die before cancer ever It’s hardly surprising that a sick, older person would sor of medicine, said the index seems valid and “method- develops. have a much higher chance of dying than someone ologically sound.” The 12 items on the index are assigned points; fewer younger and more vigorous, and it’s well known that But he said it probably would be most accurate for total points means better odds. women generally live longer than men. But why would the oldest patients, who don’t need a scientific crystal •Men automatically get 2 points. In addition to that, being overweight be less risky than being of normal ball to figure out their days are numbered. — AP Survey: Many conflicted on government spending cuts WASHINGTON — years, they’ve not changed on one category. defense budget. Security (56 percent). Most also favored s President Barack Obama and Foreign aid has been stuck firmly in last Support for defense spending has greater spending on domestic and social lawmakers spar over huge federal place since the survey began. Last year, swung back and forth between negative issues including education (76 percent), Adeficits, they’re confronted by a 65 percent of those surveyed thought and positive over four decades. It posted developing alternative energy sources classic contradiction: Most Americans want there was “too much,” 25 percent checked a -28.4 in 1973 near the end of the politi- (62 percent), reducing the crime rate (59 government austerity, a survey shows, but “about right” and a slim 11 percent said cally divisive Vietnam War, turned positive percent), improving the environment (57 they also want increased spending on a “too little.” The numbers are not much in 1978 and peaked at +48.9 in 1980. It percent) and dealing with drug addiction host of popular programs: education, crime changed from 1973 — when 73 percent returned to negative territory from 1983 (56 percent). fighting, health care, Social Security, the said too much on foreign aid, 22 percent to 2000. But after the Sept. 11, 2001, Despite all this support for increasing environment and more. Less for defense, just right and 5 percent too little. terrorism attacks and the start of the war spending, the survey found that 52 percent space and foreign aid. Various polls have consistently shown in Afghanistan, support for more defense believed their own federal income taxes The newly released General Social Survey the public believes foreign aid is a far spending again went positive — through last year were too high, 46 percent said asked people whether they believe spending bigger slice of the spending pie than it 2004. But it turned negative again as U.S. about right and just 3 percent said too low. in specific categories is “too much,” “too actually is. military involvement in Iraq increased and Some changes in national priorities are little” or “about right.” It covers the public’s Foreign aid amounts to loose change, has been negative ever since. generationally driven and the aging of baby shifting priorities from 1973, when Richard hovering for years at 1 percent or less of Conversely, Social Security has always boomers is an important factor as more Nixon was president, through 2012 with the federal budget, compared with defense been in positive territory. Most people and more retire. Obama in the White House. spending and “entitlement” programs like have favored increased spending on this “The retirees generally think things “Despite a dislike of taxes, more people Social Security and Medicare. Those are program since the mid-80s, with the excep- are about right. Pre-retirees are the group have always favored increases in spending among the biggest deficit drivers and a tion of 1993 and 1994. most likely to say (spending on Social than cuts,” wrote the survey’s director, Tom focal point in Washington’s recent budget On other issues: Most Americans in the Security) is too low. And the youngest gen- W. Smith, of the independent research orga- debates. The survey shows the public is poll favored increased spending for assis- eration is the least concerned about putt- nization NORC at the University of Chicago. largely opposed to cuts in entitlement tance to the poor (64 percent), improving ing money into Social Security,” Smith said. While people’s priorities shift over the programs but tilts toward cuts in the the nation’s health (61 percent) and Social — AP VOLUNTEERS NEEDED MISSION: To end hunger in Greater Worcester and to reduce the waste of nourishing food. VOLUNTEER DRIVERS: Is Looking for a Part-time Are needed year round to distribute excess food to emergency feeding programs Delivery Person once a month! s IN THEIR OWN VEHICLES s 3UNDAYS n &RIDAYS s TIME TO SUIT YOUR SCHEDULE * $8.50 per hour, plus mileage s DRIVE AS MUCH OR AS LITTLE AS YOU WOULD LIKE t+VTUPOFEBZ VOLUNTEER DISPATCHERS: Are needed year round to t1FSGFDUGPSBSFUJSFFMPPLJOHGPS arrange for the distribution of excess food s WORK OUT OF YOUR OWN HOME BGFXFYUSBEPMMBST s SHIFTMONTH 3UNDAYS AM n PM OR 7EEKDAYS AM n PM BE PART OF THE SOLUTION Call for more information contact #ONTACT ,ISSA AT s 6)3)4 WWWRACHELSTABLEORG Stacy at 508-752-2512, ext. 127 24 Fifty Plus Advocate April 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com Good Neighbors ~ Quality Lifestyle s 3PACIOUS "EDROOM !PARTMENTS s ,IBRARY AND #OMMUNITY 2OOMS s .ON 3MOKING "UILDING WITH ,ARGE 3CREEN 46 s #ENTRAL !IR #ONDITIONING s (OUR %MERGENCY -AINTENANCE s !LL 5TILITIES )NCLUDED s #ONVENIENTLY LOCATED NEAR (OSPITALS s !MPLE 0ARKING 3HOPPING #ENTERS AND $OWNTOWN 7ORCESTER s ,AUNDRY 2OOMS ON %ACH &LOOR s 3MALL 0ETS 7ELCOME Village at Ascension Heights 6ERNON 3TREET 7ORCESTER -! s 508-752-5590 Office Hours: Mon. & Fri. 2pm-5pm; Tues., Wed. & Thurs. 10am-3pm To receive an application please call 508-752-5590 To qualify a person must be at least 62 years of age and meet HUD annual low income guidelines of no more that $30,800 for a single person or $35,200 for two people. Award Winning Senior Housing! “Wheelchair accessible apartments available.” Green Hill Towers -OUNT 6ERNON 3TREET 7ORCESTER -! s OFFICE OPEN DAILY 8:30AM - 5:00PM To receive an application please call 508-755-6062 TDD# 508-755-0228 s 3PACIOUS BEDROOM APARTMENTS s 7ITHIN THE BUILDING AMENITIES INCLUDE s 3MALL PETS WELCOME s ! 4HEATER LIKE MEDIA CENTER s (ANDICAP ACCESSIBLE LOUNGES ON EVERY mOOR s (EAT AND (OT WATER INCLUDED s ! ,IBRARY WITH BOOKS IN ENGLISH SPANISH s "US ROUTE AMPLE PARKING s 0HYSICAL lTNESS CENTER s "EAUTIFUL LANDSCAPED GROUNDS WITH GAZEBO s 'AME ROOM WITH BILLIARD TABLE AND OUTDOOR COVERED PATIO s #OMMUNITY ROOM WITH BINGO BOARD AND LARGE SCREEN 46 Available occupancy to income eligible mature adults (age 62 years & older) or permanently disabled. Managed by Applicants must meet HUD annual low income guidelines of no more than $30,800 for a single person or $35,200 for two people. Preference is given to individuals 62 and older. Financed by MHFA Fifty Plus Advocate April 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com 25 Home Improvement It’s not easy being ‘emerald’ green By Kim Cook tiny spaces like foyers or powder rooms, and then Some colors pair well with emerald, and can give a hen Pantone LLC announced that emerald dining rooms, which always benefit from a theatrical visual pop to a room. Griffin likes yellow and brown, green was its Color of the Year for 2013, touch. But it’s too harsh a color for rooms in which “like a sun-dappled forest.” As preppy go-withs, try Wreaction among designers and interior con- you linger.” raspberry, peacock, Prussian blue, pale rhubarb and sultants was mixed. turquoise. The company, which creates and matches colors for And Kling notes that emerald pairs well with other the home and fashion industries, picks a top hue each greens: “In contrast to any other color family, the year based on current use and expected continued human eye perceives that no two greens clash. This is popularity. because we’re accustomed to seeing every variant of For New York color consultant Debra Kling, emer- green coexisting harmoniously in nature.” ald green’s boldness means it should be used only as Where shouldn’t you use the hue? an accent. “Emerald might be one of those polarizing “Avoid upholstering a long-term piece like a sofa in colors like purple — you either love it or hate it, and emerald — I promise the visual thrill will be gone in a certainly could get tired of it fast,” she said. matter of months,” Griffin said. Other shelter style arbiters, however, such as Elle At Wayfair, you’ll find Joy Carpet’s 3D graphic Décor, heralded the color by featuring luxe goods in Highrise rug in a great emerald. Glass drawer knobs emerald green, including fabrics from Scalamandre, and pulls might be a fun way to introduce this green Schumacher and Phillip Jeffries, and Baccarat water too (www.wayfair.com). glasses. JC Penney’s got a bedding and bath collection cre- Greens have been strong for a while because of ated in partnership with Pantone; there are several interest in nature, Leatrice Eiseman, executive director pieces in emerald, trimmed with white or cream (www. of Pantone’s research arm known as the Pantone Color jcp.com). Institute, has said. She calls green “a color of growth, At Lamps Plus, find Arteriors Home’s Roma emerald renewal, healing, unity and regeneration.” cased glass and Greens Circle Rings Ovo table lamps, So can you decorate with emerald green without as well as the smart Kite pillow in an emerald ikat print becoming overwhelmed by it? JC Penny offers the PANTONE Universe™ Emerald Green (www.lampsplus.com). New York designer Elaine Griffin thinks you can, as collection. At Homegoods, there are some striking emerald long as you’re careful. wine glasses priced quite a bit less than Baccarat, and “There’s no getting around it, emerald is flat out Consider malachite accessories. “Malachite is emer- a good selection of emerald throw pillows and picture dramatic. Which means it’s best used in small doses, as ald at its best, so take your inspiration from there. frames as well (www.homegoods.com). accessories,” she said. Malachite boxes, printed fabrics like Tony Duquette’s Emerald is considered the stone of Venus, and there For those liking the color enough to consider paint, for Jim Thompson, bedecked plates and table lamps are may be a little luck of the leprechaun at work too — Griffin has a suggestion. “True emerald should go in all fab,” Griffin said. more reasons to give it a try. — AP Free Booklet on What Every Family Read previous issues of the Should Know about Cremation! We have created 12 buildings in our Heritage Garden, each offering a unique way to honor a loved ones memory. These buildings honor a person’s life and memory, in a way that future 7VTQVMI\___ÅN\aXT][IL^WKI\MKWU generations would have a site to visit and reflect on where they Now both editions of came from. the Fifty Plus Advocate Our free booklet will explain all of newspaper are on-line for your cremation options and if this an entire year. choice fits your needs. Mail Coupon Below Miss an issue? No problem! or Call 508-791-0350 Download it to your DETAILS computer and read it at MAIL TO: Worcester County Memorial Park, ARE your leisure. Save important 217 Richards Ave., Paxton, MA 01612 FREE information for future Name: reference. Address: Currently serving the mature marketkf of Massachusettsh withh two monthly editions in City: Zip Code: Eastern and Central Massachusetts. Phone: For advertising information call Donna Davis at 508-752-2512, ext. 130. 26 Fifty Plus Advocate April 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com YOU DON’T KNOW THE VETERANS AND WHOLE STORY ABOUT SERVICE MEN & WOMEN MASSACHUSETTS Worcester County Memorial Park Proudly Offers Burial Benefits to MEDICAID! Those Who Serve Our Country. IN recognition of our Veterans, we are There is Medicaid money to help you get the care you need at offering Service Men and Women an home, an assisted living residence or nursing home. You don’t opportunity to register for a pre-needed need to be poor. Your spouse will not be left at risk. You paid interment space (Limited spaces still taxes for years, it’s time the government helped you. Follow available in our Veteran sections.) Don’t miss out. This benefit could expire at the rules and let your hard-earned dollars pay you back for the anytime. Thousands of Veterans and care you or your loved one needs. Our FREE report outlines Service men and women in this area the benefits and what it takes to qualify. Call now for your free HAVE ALREADY REGISTERED. special report. Mail Coupon Below or Call 508-791-0350 MAIL TO: Worcester County Memorial Park, Call anytime 1-508-281-7900 ATTN: Veteran’s Department DETAILS 217 Richards Ave., Paxton, MA 01612 ARE FREE Veteran’s Name: Address: City: Zip Code: ESTATE PLANNING AND ELDER LAW PUZZLES WORTH SOLVING TRACEY A. L. INGLE, ESQ. Phone: Married: U Yes UNo 56 CENTRAL STREET, SOUTHBOROUGH, MA 01745 Branch of Service: Dates Served: www.IngleLaw.com 45 steps from the driveway to the front door 15 stairs to the bedroom 1 DECISION TO GET RELIEF FROM JOINT PAIN FROM THE LARGEST, MOST COMPREHENSIVE ORTHOPEDIC PROGRAM IN CENTRAL NEW ENGLAND When you have joint pain, every step becomes about finding relief. The musculoskeletal experts at UMass Memorial Health Care can help. 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FREE JOINT HEALTH SEMINARS featuring our orthopedic specialists Tuesday, April 9, 6 – 8 PM Thursday, May 2, 6 – 8 PM Courtyard by Marriott, Marlborough Beechwood Hotel, Worcester Donald Hangen, MD David Ayers, MD Tuesday, April 23, 6 – 8 PM Tuesday, May 14, 6 – 8 PM Four Points by Sheraton, Leominster Northborough Public Library UMass Memorial Medical Center, Clinton Hospital, HealthAlliance Hospital, Marlborough Hospital, Robert Jones, MD Donald Hangen, MD Wing Memorial Hospital and Medical Centers Thursday, April 25, 6 – 8 PM Doubletree by Hilton, Westborough David Ayers, MD Space is limited; registration is required. Light refreshments provided. Fifty Plus Advocate April 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com 27 no incisions. no pain. no scarring. no kidding. 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The primary care and specialist communities are integral to this program, and their participation will be facilitated through our To learn more about the CyberKnife® CyberKnife® coordinator, who will manage at Saint Vincent Hospital, go to referrals to the program and insurance stvincenthospital.com. To schedule a authorizations, coordinate patient care, consultation or a visit, please contact provide education and support, and be the our CyberKnife® Coordinator, Karen liaison between patients and physicians. Berni-Giarusso, R.N. at 508-363-7664. For more information, go to stvincenthospital.com 28 Fifty Plus Advocate April 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com