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4 Fifty Plus Advocate March 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com Fifty Plus Advocate ■ Central Massachusetts Edition ■ March 1, 2013 ■ Vol. 39 / No. 3 ■ 28 pp. ■ Published monthly
FEATURED STORIES h Soc. Sec. head lambasts lawmakers 9 t Nursing home evacuation troubles 17
n Savings seen on diabetes supplies 18
o Medicare’s expensive mistakes 21 Medicaid choice: An offer to refuse? 21
M Free tax help 22
Tongue Free tax Get ready for health ins. markets 23 lashing 9 help 22 s DYI: New life for old plates 27 i
DEPARTMENTS h Caregiving Tips 19 T
Feeling Healthy 10 Home Improvement 26 e Just My Opinion 6
d Legal Briefs 22
i Money Matters 20 Generous Old into Resource for Caregivers 16 s offer? 21 new 27 Travel 14
n Viewpoint 8 ABOUT THE COVER
I Inside This Month Vision Quest 12 Judy Cockerton, 2012 Purpose Prize winner, page 6. (copyright © civic ventures.)
■ I NDEX OF SERVICES IN THIS ISSUE ■
3-D MAMMOGRAPHY CREMATION SERVICES NURSING HOMES Mass General Imaging ...... p. 11 Shaw-Majercik Funeral Home ...... p. 22 Golden LivingCenters, Fitchburg ... p. 4 ADULT DAY CARE EYE CARE SERVICES Golden LivingCenters, Worcester ... p. 4 p. 15 Adult Day Care at Dodge Park ...... p. 14 Keamy Eye & Laser Center ...... p. 11 Knollwood Nursing ...... ADVOCACY Lutheran Rehab. & Skilled Care .... p. 13 FUNERAL SERVICES AARP ...... p. 7 Quaboag Rehab. & Skilled Care .... p. 16 Miles Funeral Home ...... p. 21 AFFORDABLE SENIOR HOUSING REST HOMES HEALTH CARE INFORMATION Lincoln Village ...... p. 2 Brookhaven Assisted Care ...... p. 11 SHINE Program ...... p. 21 p. 17 ASSISTED/INDEPENDENT LIVING Charlton Manor ...... HOME CARE Dodge Park ...... p. 12 Briarwood ...... p. 15 Bayada Home Health Care ...... p. 16 SUBSIDIZED HOUSING ATTORNEYS, ELDER LAW BrightStar Lifecare ...... p. 13 Bet Shalom Apartments ...... p. 10 Durbin & Veglia Attorneys at Law .. p. 21 HOME MEDICAL EQUIPMENT Coes Pond Village ...... p. 19 Estate Preservation Law Offices ...... p. 23 Colony Retirement Homes ...... p. 13 CEMETERIES Apple Home Care and Rehab...... p. 10 Emanuel Village ...... p. 19 HOSPICE St. John’s Cemetery & Mausoleum ... p. 20 Green Hill Towers ...... p. 25 Jewish Healthcare Hospice ...... p. 17 Worcester County Memorial ..... p. 26, 27 Hawthorne Hills ...... p. 9 HOSPITALS CLEANING SERVICES Illyrian Gardens ...... p. 17 Clean Team ...... p. 24 Saint Vincent Hospital ...... p. 28 Village at Ascension Heights ...... p. 25 CO-WORKING OFFICE SPACE MEDICARE PREFERRED VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Running Start, Inc...... p. 22 TUFTS Health Plan ...... p. 3 Rachel’s Table ...... p. 24 If you use any services listed above, please mention you saw their ad in the Fifty Plus Advocate. Bay State woman wins prize for enriching lives of foster kids By Brian Goslow enting) with a five-month-old on one hip and leverage people, dollars and and a 17-month-old on another hip,” she ideas to better serve children and udy Cockerton was happily running said. “I just opened that door (to foster youth places in the public foster her two “No Kidding!” toy stores in care) with two beautiful babies in my arms care system. JBrookline and Mattapoisett in 1998 that I cared deeply for and saw the reality It is the last initiative that led when her husband showed her an unset- of the public foster care system. And what to Cockerton being awarded a tling newspaper report. I saw missing, more than anything, were Purpose Prize. Cockerton’s honor “It was the story of a five-month-old ordinary citizens like myself.” was sponsored by AARP to honor baby boy from Worcester who had been Her own children were 12 and 18 at the Intergenerational Innovation. kidnapped from his crib in his foster home time. “This is the second year AARP in the middle of the day,” she said. “His “They were delighted to be a part of it has sponsored a special Purpose foster mother had left him alone in the and delighted to welcome children into our Prize to recognize people who house and gone down to pick up her (own) home and delighted to go on to become bring generations together to ben- children at a junior high school in the adoptive siblings,” Cockerton said. efit society,” said Barb Quaintance, neighborhood. When she came back, he Bringing two foster children into her managing director of AARP was gone.” family’s life was only the beginning of Experience Corps. “Judy is an The missing boy, Marlon Devine Santos, Cockerton’s contribution. She sold her two excellent example of public service Cockerton was never found and his case remains unre- stores and became a full-time advocate for because of her steadfast commit- help us see that making the world a better solved, according to the Worcester Police foster children. ment and her ability to tackle a social issue place is a responsibility that belongs to all Department website. head on with passion, purpose of us.” When Cockerton fin- and determination. Judy has used Cockerton didn’t wait long to put her ished reading the article, a lifetime’s worth of experience to $100,000 prize to good use. disturbed at what might make a difference in the lives of “I have already invested it in the work have happened to the boy, others — young and old.” that I’m currently doing,” said Cockerton, she called her children and AARP CEO Barry Rand par- who said going from the world of busi- husband in for a family ticipated on the Purpose Prize for ness to the world of non-profits was an meeting. “We just talked Intergenerational Innovation judg- eye-opening experience. Instead of selling about the fact that we are ing panel that selected Cockerton. a product, she was selling an idea; she esti- all responsible for children “We were extremely moved by mates she spends 90 percent of her time when they’re removed Judy’s steadfast commitment to fundraising. from their homes and providing unique learning oppor- “In order to accomplish what the chil- placed in foster care,” she tunities for children in foster care dren need me to accomplish — and need said. by connecting them with older all of us to accomplish for them — means “We felt it would be mentors in their communities,” that I have to stay really focused, so getting much better if many, many Quaintance said. “She embod- a $100,000 Purpose Prize award is such a more people in their com- ies the very spirit of service that gift,” she said. munities were stepping up is part of AARP’s mission to lead While she has more than a full plate, to the plate and becoming Purpose Prize winner Judy Cockerton with Anna Evans and Aliana positive, multigenerational social Cockerton remains enthusiastic about all resources to kids and since Morales (from l to r). change.” of the Treehouse-related programs. “I love we had the resources, why Quaintance said it’s extremely it,” she said. “It’s my passion. I feel great didn’t we step up to the plate and help “I wanted to create this new compelling important to have people like Cockerton and have deep joy in doing this work. I them do that.” menu of engagement options so Americans lead by example. love collaborating with stellar people to Soon after reading about the kidnap- of all ages and backgrounds could become “Too often, we think, ‘Oh, the problem create solutions and receiving the Purpose ping, Cockerton called the Massachusetts resources to children in foster care,” she is too big. I’m just one person,’ but a story Prize has just given me the opportunity to Department of Children and Families to said. like Judy’s shines a light on the power of do more of that. For the past 10 years, I’ve find out how her family could assist with For the past 10 years, she has overseen just one person — and the ripple effect collaborated and partnered and invested in children in state foster care. That phone the Easthampton, Mass.-based Treehouse is huge,” she said. “Judy and her fellow innovation and there’s really nothing better call was the first step on Cockerton’s path Foundation; the foundation’s mission is to Purpose Prize winners inspire us all and for me.” to the $100,000 Purpose Prize she received help move children out of the public foster last month in San Francisco for her work to care system into lifetime families and com- Internet photo goes viral, showing true love despite adversity enrich the lives of foster children. munities that invest in their lives every day This is the seventh year Purpose Prizes of the week. By Sondra L. Shapiro that perpetuated the stereotype of cute have been awarded. Created by Encore.org Among the programs the foundation little old couples fumbling their way in 2005 (when the company was known supports are: ocial media meets flashcards is what through technology. as Civic Ventures) to put the spotlight on •The Suitcase Project, in which donated I thought while half-heartedly watch- So, when my peripheral vision caught the value of baby boomers’ life experiences empty duffle bags and suitcases are given Sing NBC news coverage of a photo the image of an elderly couple sitting and prove they have as much passion to to social workers at the Department of that had gone viral on the Internet. Just at a table at a Starbucks with a set of create new programs to better society as Children and Families to distribute to foster one more photo or film clip plucked from flashcards spread out on the table, I was younger citizens, it presents five $100,000 kids in their system so they have a place to YouTube or other Internet outlets by televi- underwhelmed. “What’s the big deal?” I awards annually to people over age 60 who keep their clothing and possessions; sion news programs to be used in an effort asked my husband. are serving in encore careers dedicated to •The creation of Birdsong Farm, a new to make news broadcasts hip and relevant But, then I caught the commentator’s developing new ways to solve social prob- farm-based education center in southeast- to a younger audience. words. “Eighty-two year-old John Allen lems. The John Templeton Foundation and ern Massachusetts, which will serve foster Usually the subject matter is some- patiently teaches his 70-year-old girl- The Atlantic Philanthropies fund the prize. children from newborns to age 18; and one’s child or baby dancing, singing or friend Linda Alexander how to read again Cockerton, now 61, and her husband, •The Re-envisioning Foster Care in reciting words beyond the child’s years. after her stroke,” reported NBC’s Kristen Arthur, now 62, of Sharon, entered the America Initiative, launched in 2010, in Or it’s a pet engaged in un-animal like Dahlgren. At the time of the newscast, world of child welfare knowing about as which Treehouse partners and collaborates behavior. Or it was last year’s film of the more than 2 million people had seen much as any typical American does: not with stakeholders throughout the entire elderly couple playing around with the much. “I entered (the world of foster par- western region to harness creative ideas camera on their computer — a scenario VIRAL page 7
Fifty Plus Advocate is published monthly, 12 Publisher: Philip Davis Research Study Advertising: times annually by Mar-Len Pub lica tions, 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. Retrac 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. 125 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 ➤ Viral person who they are caring for had a life before, there was more behind that Cont. from page 6 photo of Alexander and Allen who have now been dating for 11 years. When the snapshot, many offering comments Ballestero first approached the couple, such as: “Every time I need a bit more Alexander said, “You see, I’ve lost my patience, I will think of this picture,” or, memory and I’m trying to get it back.” “This is what true love is all about.” Before her stroke, Alexander was a The snapshot transcended the trite manager at Raytheon. Now, in addition photo-of-the-day category to become a to difficulty with reading, she is partially real human-interest story that conveyed paralyzed on her right side. So, six days so much in and behind its composition. a week Allen shows up at her home to When news organizations picked up the get her ready for the day. He greets her story, we got to learn about the two peo- with “Good morning Sunshine.” Three ple behind the picture. days a week, Allen takes Alexander to the gym where he works with her to restore function. Just My Though Alexander is very different from the woman he fell in love with 11 Opinion year’s ago, Allen is still devoted to her. He is extremely patient with her and she is so The couple was dat- upbeat as she and Allen run through their ing when Alexander difficult and strenuous routine. All the suffered a stroke five years ago that while she tells him, “I love you.” robbed her of most of her speech and The fact that they also make sure ability to recognize letters. that it isn’t all work, managing to fit in Rather than abandoning the ailing romantic lunches, proves that even in a Alexander, Allen made it his mission care giving/care receiving relationship, to help her become intimacy and love whole again. has a place. And, Almost every day in fact, could keep the couple goes to that relationship a Starbucks where from becoming one- Allen uses flashcards dimensional where to help Alexander the caregiver views learn to read again. his or her charge as It was during one of just someone need- those sessions that ing care. The thought Matthew Ballestero, that true companion- a 20-something, ship can continue is was sitting with two inspirational to oth- friends when he hap- ers in the same kind pened to notice the (courtesy of matthew ballestero) of relationship. couple, pulled out To NBC’s his smart phone and took the picture, Dahlgren, Alexander said, “I really enjoy then posted it on Facebook and Reddit, my life. I’m not sad, I’m not angry.” both social media sites. Alexander looks ahead and wants to The action is very typical of today’s someday be able to drive again. This atti- online culture that takes and shares tude is encouraging to anyone suffering photos, thoughts and experiences of just from a debilitating condition and who about every moment of their day. What sees no light at the end of the tunnel. is different is the motivation behind the What does Allen get from this? He action. “We could feel the love emanating doesn’t say it, but from his actions it is off of them,” said Ballestero. “My friends safe to conclude he has found a profound and I were overwhelmed by the love that sense of purpose from caring for this these two had for each other and I knew woman who he clearly adores. This too, I wanted to let them know how much is an underreported bonus for individu- of an inspiration and a perfect example als who provide care to a loved one. of true love they were to me,” Ballestero This slice of life photo taken by a posted on his Facebook page. sensitive young man has had a rippling “This is definitely a moment I will effect on so many levels. It also proves remember forever — John’s unwaver- that I should be less cynical when it ing love, patience and understanding for comes to the social media’s infiltration of the woman he chose to give his life to. legitimate news organizations. Linda’s endless positive attitude, eager- And, for the couple at the center of it ness to (re)learn and mostly her uninhib- all … ited joy in expressing love to others. … “When I told them that the photo Thank you for your beautiful example, had gone viral they were overjoyed, con- Linda and John!” wrote Ballestero. fused and in shock — the good kind of It is heartening to hear of one so shock,” said Ballestero in an interview young exhibiting such sensitivity toward with Mashable, an online news source. the elderly, to see beyond the stereotype “John and Linda have so much love, to poignantly convey a portrait of love, respect and compassion for each other devotion and selflessness. It is so rare for and the people they meet, it’s inspiring the young to apply such human char- just to be in their presence.” acteristics to old people, let alone even notice them in a social setting. Sondra Shapiro is the executive editor Ballestero also inadvertently captured of the Fifty Plus Advocate. Email her at an image that portrays what is happen- [email protected]. And ing in millions of American homes — follow her online at www.facebook.com/fif- individuals providing care for sick loved typlusadvocate, www.twitter.com/shapiro50 ones. And, just as the caregiver and the plus or www.fiftyplusadvocate.com
Fifty Plus Advocate March 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com 7 Viewpoint Home care waiting lists must end By Michael E. Festa commonwealth is weighted disproportionately toward Home care programs served 64,000 Bay State resi- institutional care, like nursing homes, leaving home care dents last year. Some pay privately for these services or his is not fiction: A 101-year-old Massachusetts under-funded, seniors under-served and caregivers over- through long-term care insurance; others receive help senior with a serious heart condition has the abil- stressed. This must change. from MassHealth, the commonwealth’s Medicaid pro- Tity to live independently in his home, with the Today, 10 million seniors nationwide rely on others gram. help of his daughter, but may be forced into a nursing for assistance with daily care. This number will grow Strengthening and rebalancing long-term care — that home because he cannot get the home care services he as boomers head into their 70s, 80s and beyond. And, includes high quality, affordable skilled nursing facili- needs. He is currently on a waiting list — for home long-term care is, indeed, an expensive proposition. ties, assisted living facilities, adult day health services, care. Medicare does not pay for most long-term care. And, senior housing and home and community based services Home care helps people stay indepen- most families have not yet planned for long-term care — for today’s seniors, and those who will need these dent in their own homes by providing needs. Instead, they make difficult decisions during an services in the next decades, should be a priority for all a variety of services, including home- unexpected crisis, without ample time to understand of us. After all, by 2030, the 65-plus population will maker and chore services, transporta- options and have grow to more than 20 percent in Massachusetts or an tion, protective services, respite care to frank conversa- estimated 1.5 million residents. relieve caregivers and information and AARP and You tions with their We must make available the long-term care services referral. loved ones; cer- that our older residents need, in a way that is fiscally Today, more than 1,000 tainly not the ideal situation. responsible for individuals, families and the common- Massachusetts seniors are not receiving the Long-term care insurance is available, but only a wealth. home care services for which they are eligible. Instead, small percentage of adults in the U.S. purchase these But, right now, we have an immediate priority. AARP they are put on waiting lists. Many are forced into pre- plans, mainly due to the cost and complexity. In is fighting to end home care waiting lists — and on mature nursing home care, which is more expensive for Massachusetts, AARP fought hard to get a law passed other issues that matter to you and your family. families and for the commonwealth. that will standardize long-term care insurance in the If, like me, you believe home care waiting lists must Others rely exclusively on their family caregivers, commonwealth — making it easier for consumers to end, once and for all, join me in raising your voice. Call giving these dedicated individuals no respite, at the cost understand and compare plans. your state legislators today at 888-259-9789: Urge them of their own personal health and sometimes their jobs. Not surprisingly, most Americans support the notion to fully fund home care in the Fiscal Year 2014 state Still others die while waiting. This is unacceptable. of helping out older family members in need. But, we budget — and end home care waiting lists. AARP believes: The time to end home care waiting also must provide support for family caregivers. lists is now — for our seniors, for their caregivers, for In Massachusetts, three major home care programs Michael E. Festa is the state director of AARP Massachusetts, our commonwealth. are available: a basic program, and two enhanced which represents more than 800,000 members age 50 and Time and time again, our research finds that the vast options that provide a higher level of service for those older in the Bay State. Connect with AARP Massachusetts majority of seniors want to stay in their own homes seniors who are medically eligible for a nursing home online at www.aarp.org/ma; www.facebook.com/AARPMA; and communities as they age. Yet, long-term care in the — including respite care to give caregivers a break. and www.twitter.com/AARPMA. Will the legislature end home care waiting lists? By Al Norman a major cost-savings for taxpayers. Over two-thirds of our MassHealth long-term lined home care programs. We have turned the past 12 years, nursing home days paid care dollars on institutions. to the General Court to add nearly $13 n September of 2012, a coalition of five for by MassHealth have fallen by roughly Since the governor took office six years million to the governor’s budget to help elder advocacy groups sent a letter to 32 percent. That’s more than 4.5 ago the elder services line items have lost us keep the elderly living independently IGov. Deval Patrick urging him to help million fewer nursing home $36.4 million in buying power. In June of at home, where they so passionately want end the home care waiting lists. Their letter days in 2012 compared to 2006, then candidate Deval Patrick said to be. That $13 million is a small price to was never answered. More than 100 activ- 2000. This has produced the following: pay as a down payment on the home care ists went to the State House and presented a savings to taxpayers of “The long-term dividend. the governor with a cell phone, hoping for more than $703 million Push care system in It’s about time that the governor and the “better reception” for their proposals. a year in avoided institu- Back Massachusetts General Court recognize that home care As of Jan. 15 there were 1,224 people on tional costs. We call this favors institu- programs have helped conquer one of the a home care waiting list — and the numbers “the home care dividend.” tional care over care in the community greatest “budget busters” facing this state: are rising. For a state that calls its elder- In 2010, the state’s Bureau and at home. This neither respects the the cost of nursing home care. Expenditures care policy “Community First,” the idea of of Health Care Safety and Quality wishes of most older adults, nor follows the on nursing homes in 2012 were $290 mil- people waiting to get community care is an projected that by 2015 we would have law of requiring care in the least restrictive lion less than in 2005. That’s a remarkable oxymoron. Ironically, we have a 12 percent 10,772 surplus nursing home beds in environment, nor spends public dollars turnaround. vacancy rate for nursing homes beds. Massachusetts. The private marketplace prudently … A large portion of older and “Can you hear us now, governor?” the We have proven that home care creates has been ‘rebalancing,’ but we still spend disabled adults see community care as the elder activists chanted in the State House. best choice. Massachusetts has made efforts The governor clearly did not hear the mes- and significant progress toward the rebal- sage. His budget was flat. Now the $13 You can enjoy the convenience ancing of the long term care system through million question is: “Can the legislature Enjoy Home support of community-based services … hear us now?” of having your Fifty Plus However, there is far more that needs to Advocate delivered to you be done to fundamentally rebalance the Al Norman is the executive director of Delivery of at home, insuring you that system.” Mass Home Care. He can be reached at info@ Yet the governor’s budget mostly flat- masshomecare.org, or at 978-502-3794. you will never miss an issue. Just fill out this coupon and enclose payment. ❍ 1 year - $18 ❍ 2 years - $34 ❍ 3 years - $48 Name:______Address:______City:______State:______Zip: ______
MAIL TO: If change of address or renewal, place mailing label here and your new address. 131 Lincoln St., Worcester, MA 01605 8 Fifty Plus Advocate March 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com Soc. Sec. head says program fraying from neglect
By Stephen Ohlemacher Press, Astrue said benefit cuts and tax Do You Want increases are inevitable — despite fierce WASHINGTON — opposition to both. Yet he questions utgoing Social Security Commissioner whether Congress is up to the task. Michael J. Astrue had some parting Q: The president and Republican FREE HOUSING INFORMATION Oshots for Congress, the White House leaders in Congress have both embraced and advocates for seniors. They have all changes to Social Security as part of nego- “really walked away from Social Security,” he mailed to you? tiations to reduce government borrowing. said, leaving the program “fraying because Should Social Security be part of the defi- of inattention to its problems.” cit and debt discussions? Please check off all the facilities that you would like to Instead of making the hard choices to A: My general perspective is that fix Social Security’s financial problems, Washington broadly, and I include the receive free, no obligation information from. You can check policymakers “use it as a tool of political Congress, parties, the executive branch, rhetoric,” Astrue said. the major interest groups, have really off as many locations as you like. Your name will not be used walked away from Social Security. ... I Nothing is going to happen if think that Social Security is a gem. I think for any other purpose. Fill out the coupon, cut out and mail it is the most successful domestic program you establish preconditions in the history of the United States govern- back to us at the address below. for the conversation. ment and it is fraying because of inat- tention to its problems. And I think it’s a Astrue, 56, has headed the federal shame that Washington cannot get its act Affordable 55+ government’s largest program since 2007 together to look at Social Security in detail — he was nominated by former President in isolation and say, What do we need to Apartments: George W. Bush. do? The trustees who oversee Social Q: There are some in Congress who say Security say the program’s trust funds will only benefit cuts should be considered — R Lincoln Village - Worcester run dry in 2033, leaving Social Security no tax increases. Others say benefit cuts Emanuel Village with only enough revenue to pay about 75 should be off the table. Where do you percent of benefits. Already the program is come down? Assisted Living Facilities: paying out more in benefits than it collects A: Nothing is going to happen if you in payroll taxes. establish preconditions for the conversa- As commissioner, Astrue served as a tion. I do think that for the people who R Briarwood - Assisted Living, Worcester trustee. He regularly urged Congress to simply want to tax more, you need to be address Social Security’s long-term finan- very mindful of the fact that that tax will Rest Homes: cial problems but refrained from publicly fall disproportionately on the younger Green Hill Towers weighing in on various options to cut ben- generation and that if you’re not careful, efits or raise taxes — until now. R Brookhaven - West Brookfield In an interview with The Associated NEGLECT page 18 R Charlton Manor - Charlton
R Dodge Park - Rest Home, Worcester Hawthorne Hill Lincoln Village Subsidized Apartments: Elderly Housing Dodge Park Rest Home Phase I & II • 106 Main Street, Rutland, MA 01543 R Bet Shalom - Worcester
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Elderly & disabled rental units. “62 years of age or older, FREE HOUSING INFORMATION handicap/disabled regardless of age.” (PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY) Eligible tenants pay 30% of monthly income. Name HUD Section 8 Subsidy and USDA/RD Rental Assistance. Address City State Zip To obtain applications, please call Brenda Phone at 508-886-6920 • TDD 1-800-439-2370 \Attn: Free Fifty Plus Housing Information Laundry Facilities • Community Rooms • Accessible Units Fifty Plus Advocate, 131 Lincoln St., Worcester, MA 01605 *We cannot process without your phone number. It will be used only in regard to the properties that “This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer” you have marked. z-2
Fifty Plus Advocate March 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com 9 Feeling Healthy Sponsored by: Brain image study: Fructose may spur overeating By Marilynn Marchione For the study, scientists used magnetic Journal of the American Medical Association. Prevention (CDC) — painted a misleading and Mike Stobbe resonance imaging, or MRI, scans to track Researchers now are testing obese people picture by including smokers and people blood flow in the brain in 20 young, normal- to see if they react the same way to fructose with health problems ranging from cancer his is your brain on sugar — for real. weight people before and after they had and glucose as the normal-weight people in to heart disease. Those people tend to weigh Scientists have used imaging tests to drinks containing glucose or this study did. less and therefore make pudgy people look Tshow for the first time that fructose, fructose in two sessions several What to do? Cook more at healthy by comparison. a sugar that saturates the American diet, weeks apart. home and limit processed Flegal’s new analysis bolsters her original can trigger brain changes that may lead to Scans showed that foods containing fructose one, by assessing nearly 100 other studies overeating. drinking glucose “turns off and high-fructose corn covering almost 2.9 million people around After drinking a fructose beverage, the or suppresses the activity syrup, Purnell sug- the world. She again concludes that very brain doesn’t register the feeling of being full of areas of the brain that gested. “Try to avoid obese people had the highest risk of death as it does when simple glucose is consumed, are critical for reward the sugar-sweetened but that overweight people had a 6 percent researchers found. and desire for food,” beverages. It doesn’t lower mortality rate than thinner people. She It’s a small study and does not prove that said one study lead- mean you can’t also concludes that mildly obese people had fructose or its relative, high-fructose corn er, Yale University ever have them,” a death risk similar to that of normal-weight syrup, can cause obesity, but experts say it endocrinologist Dr. but control their size people. adds evidence they may play a role. These Robert Sherwin. With and how often they are Critics again have focused on her meth- sugars often are added to processed foods fructose, “we don’t see consumed, he said. ods. This time, she included people too and beverages, and consumption has risen those changes,” he said. A second study in the thin to fit what some consider to be normal dramatically since the 1970s along with “As a result, the desire to eat journal suggests that only weight, which could have taken in people obesity. A third of U.S. children and teens continues — it isn’t turned severe obesity carries a high emaciated by cancer or other diseases, as and more than two-thirds of adults are obese off.” death risk — and that a few well as smokers with elevated risks of heart or overweight. What’s convincing, said Dr. extra pounds might even pro- disease and cancer. All sugars are not equal — even though Jonathan Purnell, an endocrinologist at vide a survival advantage. However, indepen- “Some portion of those thin people are they contain the same amount of calories Oregon Health & Science University, is that dent experts say the methods are too flawed actually sick, and sick people tend to die — because they are metabolized differently the imaging results mirrored how hungry the to make those claims. sooner,” said Donald Berry, a biostatistician at in the body. Table sugar is sucrose, which is people said they felt, as well as what earlier The study comes from a federal researcher the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer half fructose, half glucose. High-fructose corn studies found in animals. who drew controversy in 2005 with a report Center in Houston. syrup is 55 percent fructose and 45 percent “It implies that fructose, at least with that found thin and normal-weight people The problems created by the study’s inclu- glucose. Some nutrition experts say this regards to promoting food intake and weight had a slightly higher risk of death than those sion of smokers and people with pre-existing sweetener may pose special risks, but others gain, is a bad actor compared to glucose,” said who were overweight. Many experts criticized illness “cannot be ignored,” said Susan and the industry reject that claim. And doc- Purnell. He wrote a commentary that appears that work, saying the researcher — Katherine Gapstur, vice president of epidemiology for tors say we eat too much sugar in all forms. with the federally funded study in a recent Flegal of the Centers for Disease Control and the American Cancer Society. — AP
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Fifty Plus Advocate March 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com 11 Study says leafy greens top food poisoning source NEW YORK — other type of food. And nearly half of all But it was close. CDC estimated 277 for produce of all types. The CDC esti- food poisonings were attributed to produce poultry-related deaths in 1998-2008, com- mated 417 deaths from all kinds of meat big government study has fingered in general, when illnesses from other fruits pared to 236 vegetable-related deaths. and poultry, another 140 from dairy and 71 leafy greens like lettuce and spinach and vegetables were added in. Fruits and nuts were credited with 96 Aas the leading source of food poi- It’s already been kind of a tough year additional deaths, making 334 total deaths POISONING page 17 soning, a perhaps uncomfortable conclu- for vegetables. A controversy erupted when sion for health officials who want us to eat Taco Bell started airing a TV ad for its vari- our vegetables. ety 12-pack of tacos, with a voiceover say- Laser cataract & refractive lens exchange surgery “Most meals are safe,” said Dr. Patricia ing that bringing a vegetable tray to a foot- By Dr. Jean Keamy matism with precise arcuate incisions on the Griffin, a government researcher and one ball party is “like punting on fourth-and-1.” cornea. Additionally, the laser can pre-soften of the study’s authors who said the finding It said that people secretly hate guests who he FDA recently approved the use of the lens. This enables the surgeon to use less shouldn’t discourage people from eating bring vegetables to parties. the femtosecond laser for performing ultrasound power during the removal of the produce. Experts repeated often- The fast-food chain pulled the Tsome steps in cataract surgery and lens. Using less energy during phacoemulsifi- heard advice: Be sure to wash those commercial after receiving com- refractive lens exchange (removal of a clear cation is desirable to prevent cornea damage. foods or cook them thoroughly. plaints that it discouraged people lens). It can also be used to make incisions There are a few disadvantages of laser While more people may have from eating vegetables. on the cornea to reduce astigmatism. cataract surgery. It does take longer than gotten sick from plants, more Without actually saying so, the The femtosecond laser provides many ben- traditional cataract surgery. The first step is died from contaminated poultry, CDC report suggests that the Food efits during cataract to have the laser make all its incisions and the study also found. The results were and Drug Administration (FDA) should surgery or refractive pre- soften the lens in released by the Centers for Disease Control devote more staff time and other resources lens exchange. During one location. Then the and Prevention (CDC). to inspection of fruits and vegetables, said traditional cataract Vision patient is brought to Each year roughly 1 in 6 Americans — Michael Doyle, director of the University of surgery, the surgeon the operating suite for or 48 million people — gets sick from food Georgia’s Center for Food Safety. manually makes inci- Quest the lens removal and poisoning. That includes 128,000 hospi- Meanwhile, CDC officials emphasized sions into the cor- intraocular lens implan- talizations and 3,000 deaths, according to that their report should not be seen as dis- nea. The surgeon uses a n tation. There are also additional costs for using previous CDC estimates. couraging people from eating vegetables. instrument to manu- ally the laser and specific risks with using the laser The new report is the most comprehen- Many of the vegetable-related illnesses make a capsulotomy (a round incision in the that your surgeon will review prior to surgery. sive CDC has produced on the sources of come from norovirus, which is often spr- anterior capsule of the lens), then removes It is an exciting time to have cataract or food poisoning, covering the years 1998 ead by cooks and food handlers. Conta- the lens with ultrasound power with a refractive lens exchange. Ophthalmology through 2008. It reflects the agency’s grow- mination sometimes has more to do with phacoemulsification hand piece and places technology continues to advance to improve ing sophistication at monitoring illnesses the kitchen or restaurant it came from then an artificial lens inside the eye. safety and improved outcomes. and finding their source. the food itself, Griffin noted. The benefit of the laser is in how precise What jumped out at the researchers was Also, while vegetable-related illnesses the cornea incisions can be placed. It also Dr. Jean Keamy is a board certified oph- the role fruits and vegetables played in food were more common, they were not the helps make a completely round 360-degree thalmologist. She owns Keamy Eye & Laser poisonings, said Griffin, who heads the most dangerous. The largest proportion capsulotomy at a designated size. How round Centre on 24 Lyman St. in Westborough and CDC office that handles foodborne infec- of foodborne illness deaths — about 1 in the capsulotomy is can affect the artificial lens can be reached at 508-836-8733. Learn more tion surveillance and analysis. 5 — were due to poultry. That was partly position and refractive outcome. The rounder at www.seemedrkeamy.com or www.facebook. About 1 in 5 illnesses were linked to because of three big outbreaks more than it is, the better and more predictable the com/Keamyeye. Visit fiftyplusadvocate.com to leafy green vegetables — more than any 10 years ago linked to turkey deli meat. outcome. Lastly, it can also help reduce astig- read additional articles by Dr. Keamy. Caring for your memory impaired loved one! Dodge Park Rest Home provides a unique dementia and Alzheimer's program tailored to meet ATTENTION VETERANS OR \RXUORYHGRQH·VVSHFLÀFQHHGV2XUKRPHOLNH THEIR SURVIVING SPOUSES! environment is usually at half the cost of a nursing You may be entitled to monthly benefits as much as $2,019 to help offset long-term care. 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 March 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com 13 Travel and Entertainment By Jamie Stengle revealed to still be alive. The story of his death PARKER, Texas — turned out to be part he white two- of a prolonged dream story home with sequence. Tstately pillars more people than any TV program in history up until that Around the house, overlooking a green Texas pasture where longhorns roam is time. the pool and patio have provided spots for countless shots. instantly recognizable: This is the power seat of television’s When the series first began filming at Southfork, the And while interior scenes for the home on the series were famous Ewing family. family that built the house in 1970 still lived there. And never shot inside the 5,900-square-foot (548-square- Tourists from around the world have been flocking to while they hosted tourists as the show’s popularity grew, it meter), four-bedroom house, visitors can still walk through Southfork Ranch since the early years of the classic series didn’t become an official tourist attraction and event loca- and take in the rooms decorated in homage to the Ewings, Dallas, which ran from 1978 to 1991, and the ranch is tion until 1985 after they sold it. Forever Resorts bought with rooms reflecting the tastes of different characters. only getting more popu- Southfork in 1992. Sally Peavy, tourism sales manager at Southfork, said lar. With the premiere Most of the shoot- scenes from reunion shows have been filmed in the house last June of a new Dallas ing for the original and that a scene in the second season of the new show was series, the number of series was done in Los also filmed in one room, though details of the scene have visitors at Southfork has Angeles, though some of not been revealed. doubled from 150,000 it was filmed in Texas. There’s also a restaurant and two gift shops on the annually to more than But the new show is grounds. One sells items including hats and belts and 300,000, according to being filmed in the has as its centerpiece family patriarch Jock Ewing’s silver Jim Gomes, general man- Dallas area — with loca- Lincoln Continental, which features “trunk sales.” ager of the Southfork tions ranging from the Josh Henderson, who plays John Ross, was born in Ranch & Hotel and vice flagship Neiman Marcus Dallas and spent much of his childhood here. Henderson president of Forever downtown to the gleam- said that when he got the part of J.R.’s son, his mother Resorts, which owns the ing Cowboys Stadium. informed him that he’d already been to Southfork once, at property. Cynthia Cidre, execu- age 3. “We are obviously tive producer of the “I don’t remember it but my mother definitely made thrilled the new fans love reboot, said she knew sure I had that information,” said Henderson. Southfork as much as the Around the house, the pool and patio have provided spots for when she started devel- Janice Johnstone of Vancouver visited Southfork in original fans of `Dallas,”’ countless shots. oping the new series that November while sightseeing in Dallas. An avid fan of the said Gomes. Southfork would again original series, she enjoyed hearing tidbits from the tour The new show just started its second season on the be an integral part of the plot. guides. TNT cable channel. The recent death of Larry Hagman, “The ranch had been in the previous show, it was “I think just hearing the history of how people found who starred as conniving Texas oilman J.R. Ewing in both almost a character in the story. I knew that I wanted to use out that that’s where it was and they had all these people the original series and the new show, has also spurred fans that as something that the family was fighting over again,” driving by constantly, I thought that was kind of interest- to visit. she said. ing because those are things that you don’t The 340-acre (138-hectare) ranch is located about 25 The struggle over ownership of the ranch became hear,” she said. “I think it’s definitely worth- miles (40 kilometers) northeast of downtown Dallas in the the central plot point in the first season of while going, anybody who has watched suburb of Parker. Patrick Duffy, who has returned to the the new series, with J.R. telling the show I think would really appreciate role of J.R.’s brother Bobby, said that the biggest changes his son, John Ross: “Southfork it.” since he first filmed on the ranch are new tourist-related isn’t just a piece of dirt. It’s as Family When Larry White, who lives buildings and event facilities for weddings and meetings, much a part of me as my blood patriarch near Springfield, Mass., was in along with the buildup of the surrounding town, including and my bones and I’d pay a hell Jock Ewing’s Dallas in November, a friend drove housing additions and a high school. of a price for it.” silver Lincoln him by Southfork. Since he had a But any time he’s back at Southfork, it doesn’t take Visitors start their tour in a museum flight to catch, he didn’t have time long for the magic to take over. “You drive down that road featuring everything from the gun that “shot” J.R. to scripts for the tour, but did make a quick stop in a gift shop and and you look across this pasture and there’s the front of from the original series to the wedding dress of Lucy, the took a picture of the house complete with a longhorn. Southfork and it looks like the opening credits of the show niece of J.R. and Bobby, who was played by Charlene “It’s just clearly a piece of American history at this and I know why people love it so much,” Duffy said. Tilton. For those puzzled about the complicated relations point,” said White. — AP Duffy remembers a time when fans watching them film of the Ewing family, there’s a family tree to peruse. consisted of small groups of 20 to 30 people. Those crowds As tour guides take visitors through the barns and IIff YYouou GGo...o... grew to the hundreds as the “Who Shot J.R.?” mania built pastures on their way to the house, they point out where SOUTHFORK RANCH: 3700 Hogge Road, Parker, in 1980 when a cliffhanger left fans in suspense. The scenes from both the old and new series were filmed — Texas, www.southfork.com, 972-442-7800. Open daily 9 answer came on Nov. 21, 1980, when the shooter was from the cottage where Elena Ramos, played by Jordana a.m.-5 p.m. Tours depart from the visitor center every 30 revealed to be Kristin — J.R.’s vengeful mistress, who was Brewster, lives, to the spot from the original series where to 45 minutes. Adults, $13.50; $11.50 for senior citizens; also his sister-in-law — in an episode that was seen by the funeral was held for Bobby, who was later famously $8.50 for children ages 6-12; children 5 and under free. Our adult day care is there for you. 6XSHUYLVHGFDUHXSWRKRXUVSHUGD\0RUH 'DLO\$FWLYLWLHV,QFOXGH Exercise, Music, Art DIIRUGDEOHWKDQDQ\RWKHUFDUHRSWLRQ and Intergenerational Programs, among others. 7KHGD\FOXEDOORZVPHPEHUVWRVSHQGWKHGD\LQ 0HDOVLQFOXGHG DFRPIRUWDEOHVWLPXODWLQJHQYLURQPHQW “Caring for your family THE ADULT DAY CLUB at Dodge Park members since 1967.” 5DQGROSK5RDG:RUFHVWHU0$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 March 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 March 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com 15 Resource for Caregivers Help at hand when elderly relative’s health fails By Jim Fitzgerald of mind. For an initial $625 four-hour consultation, “When we’re hired, we go in and count Schwartz found her “eyes and ears” when her company will evaluate a family’s needs and the pills, check the food in the refrigerator, WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. — a childhood friend told her about A Dignified come up with an “action plan.” The family we talk to the doctors,” she said. “We get a arnie Schwartz was in California, Life, a small White Plains, N.Y., company can then hire the company to implement the complete picture and we write up a report in a lawyer raising two toddlers. She specializing in elder care. plan on an hourly or retainer basis. lay language. The family knows what we’ll do Mwas in no position to move across “I don’t know what I would have done with- Mannix started the company after navigat- and what it will cost right up front.” the country to care for her mother, who was out them,” Schwartz said. “They knew where ing the maze during her husband’s fatal illness. Jullie Gray, president of the National living alone in New York and whose health to go with all these questions I had that “You’re suddenly in crisis and the normal Association of Geriatric Care Managers, said was beginning to decline. would have taken me 500 phone calls. reaction is, ‘What do I do, where do I go, membership is now near 2,000, up from fewer Schwartz’s dilemma was similar to that They deciphered what the who do I call first?’ ” she said. than 1,600 a decade ago. faced by more and more Americans as the doctors were saying. They “People are lost. But we tell Rappaport said the average fee for her cli- population spreads out, people live longer got a ramp built at the them there is a way to cope, ents is between $1,500 and $2,500 a month, and giving up a job is out of the question. house. They dealt with the there is crisis management, not including the in-home caretakers’ pay. “I needed eyes and ears closer to my plumber. They remembered there are people that will help David Cutner, an elder law attorney in mother,” said Schwartz, an only child living everything, and they did it in you who do what they do all Manhattan, worries about elderly people in Malibu. “I needed someone to handle the a really human, caring way. day every day.” exhausting their assets, but said, “People medical, the insurance, the financial, and stay “In about a year and a She said many people just who have a substantial net worth and are not on top of the daily caregiving, so the emotional half, as my mother’s situa- don’t have the personality thinking about government benefit programs strain wouldn’t be overwhelming.” tion got worse, they became for dealing with doctors and might well want to hire this type of service.” Those needs have fostered a niche that part of our daily life,” Schwartz said. And in caregivers and insurance companies. A much less comprehensive and less a variety of enterprises have been filling in October, as her mother’s health failed, “they “It’s time, it’s energy, it’s stress, it’s conster- costly alternative is offered by CareFamily, recent years. Companies and individuals call- told me it was time to get on a plane.” She was nation among members of the family,” she which prescreens in-home caregivers and ing themselves advocates, care managers and at her mother’s deathbed, she said, because A said. “There’s emotional baggage, and if you matches them to customers over the Internet. advisers are willing to stand in for the family Dignified Life knew when to call. have children yourself you’re being pulled in The company recently announced a variety and deal with the maze of responsibilities that Barbara Newman Mannix, who runs the both directions.” of online tools through which a family can comes with the care of an elderly loved one. company, said “experience and empathy” are Judy Rappaport, who runs Preferred remotely monitor a caregiver’s attendance, With the aging of the baby boom genera- required to do the job well. She vets, hires Lifestyle Services in Jupiter, Fla., said most provide reminders about medications and tion, the 78 million Americans born between and monitors in-home caregivers, attorneys, elderly people resist moving to a son or appointments and exchange care plans and 1946 and 1964, calls for such businesses are nursing homes and more, guides a family daughter’s home. notes via email, texting or phone. expected to increase over the next 20 years. through the financial tangles and makes sure “Everybody wants to stay home,” Rap- The service would be included in the aver- Their service doesn’t come cheap and it’s an elderly person’s wishes are respected. She paport said. “Now we do what we can to make age $15 an hour fee paid for the caregiver, said generally not covered by insurance. But some can help arrange the sale of a house and pre- it possible for people to stay in their homes.” customers have found it’s worth the peace plan a funeral. Most of her company’s staffers are nurses. HELP 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! With a broad range of services and a team of professionals who are QUABOAG TAKES PRIDE IN: t3FIBCJMJUBUJWFUIFSBQJFTBWBJMBCMF committed to keeping people of all ages safe at home, BAYADA provides: t/FXMZSFOPWBUFE TFDVSFBOE 7 days a week UÊ ÃÃÃÌÛiÊV>ÀiÊ>`ÊÃÕ««ÀÌÊÃiÀÛViÃÊ compassionate Dementia Care Unit t/FXMZSFOPWBUFE TQBDJPVT GVMMZFRVJQQFE t%FEJDBUFETIPSUUFSNSFIBCJMJUBUJPOVOJU rehab therapy gym with kitchen UÊ ÕÀÃ}]ÊÀi >LÌ>Ì]Ê>`ÊÌ iÀ>«Þ t6QEBUFEBOESFOPWBUFE t0VUTUBOEJOH%1)TVSWFZBOEQBUJFOU UÊ / ÀÕ} ÞÊÃVÀiii`Ê i>Ì ÊV>ÀiÊ«ÀviÃÃ>à long-term care unit satisfaction results t"DDFQUJOH.FEJDBSFBOE.FEJDBJE QSJWBUF UÊ -Õ««ÀÌÊÓ{Ê ÕÀÃ]ÊÇÊ`>Þà t4VQFSJPSTUBïOHMFWFMTBOEEFEJDBUFE compassionate caregivers insurance, and long-term UÊ ÊÛ>ÀiÌÞÊvÊ«>ÞiÌÊ«Ìà tIPVSTLJMMFEOVSTJOHDBSF care insurance Now serving Worcester and Middlesex counties! &.BJO4Ut8FTU#SPPLíFME ." BAYADA specialty practices include Home Health 508-867-7716 Care, Pediatrics, Hospice, and Habilitation. XXXRVBCPBHPOUIFDPNNPODPN Call 508-853-4100 | www.bayada.com Compassion. Excellence. Reliability. EXCEPTIONAL CARE IS CLOSER THAN YOU THINK. 16 Fifty Plus Advocate March 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com Sandy highlights nursing home evacuation troubles ➤ Help “The type of work these people do is NEW YORK — and assisted living centers struggled to absolutely essential. It’s a combination of ealth experts and regulators are warn- evacuate more than 6,000 residents from Cont. from page 16 families living farther apart and the fact we’re ing that thousands of nursing homes their flooded or powerless buildings. living longer.” Hnationwide are still ill prepared for a Some changes could be in the works. The CareFamily CEO Tom Knox. He said it can Leslie Riley of Cornwall-on-Hudson, N.Y., natural disaster after Superstorm Sandy. federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid “cut costs while ensuring that the elderly can said that when her sister-in-law began hav- The late October storm was the latest disa- Services said it expects to issue new disaster be well taken care of — without the need to ing mental and physical problems, relatives ster to reveal gaps in emergency planning de- planning requirements for nursing homes uproot seniors and disrupt families.” hired A Dignified Life, even though some spite an industry-wide effort to improve pre- this year. Yale Hauptman, an elder law attorney in lived nearby. paredness in the years since Hurricane Katrina. The aim is to avoiding the types of prob- Livingston, N.J., said many different services “We had no idea where to start,” she said. In New York City, seaside nursing homes lems seen in Sandy. — AP are available. His office is often called in by “Barbara came in and helped us focus on advocates who discover that an elderly person what needed to be done. How to work with ➤ Poisoning because of a deadly outbreak of E. coli needs a will or power of attorney or a trust. the doctors in the hospital. We needed to associated with hamburger. But Griffin “We work with people who just do health get power of attorney, we needed to provide Cont. from page 12 and Doyle said there have been significant insurance, cut through red tape, deal with health care proxies, we needed to figure out safety improvements in beef handling. In Medicaid,” he said. “We work with daily how to approach the financial situation.” from eggs. the study, beef was the source of fewer than money managers, who make sure the bills get “She had a checklist for everything,” Riley Red meat was once seen as one of the 4 percent of food-related deaths and fewer paid. We work with geriatric care managers said. “I would call her lovingly efficient.” leading sources of food poisoning, partly than 7 percent of illnesses. — AP on the medical side. — AP JHC HomeCare and Hospice an affiliate of Jewish Healthcare Center www.jewishhealthcarecenter.com Serving the families of Worcester county with quality care. JHC Hospice JHC HomeCare In Memory of Selig J. Glick 629 Salisbury St. A recognized leader 629 Salisbury St. Worcester, MA 01609 in the community. Worcester, MA 01609 (508) 713-0538 (508) 713-0512 Fax (508) 770-0539 Fax (508) 713-0554 When a Nursing Home is Too Much & Living Alone is Not Enough “Waiting List Closed!” A QUAINT OLD NEW ENGLAND FARM HOUSE SET ON 27 ACRES UÊ iÛiÊÕÀÊ,iÃÌÊiÊÊ ÉÊÃÃÃÌi`Ê >Ài UÊ*/]Ê"/]Ê>`Ê-«iiV Ê-iÀÛViÃÊ «ÀÛ`i`ÊÃÌi UÊ*ÀÛ>ÌiÊ,ÃÊÛ>>LiÊEÊ *ÀÛ>ÌiÊ-ÕÌiÃÊvÀÊ Õ«iÃÊ UÊi>`iÊi>à UÊ/À>ëÀÌ>ÌÊvÀÊ >««ÌiÌÃÊÊ >`Êà ««}Ê«ÀÛ`i` UÊ i`V>ÌÊ>>}iiÌÊ Ó{ ÕÀÃÊ>Ê`>Þ UÊ"ÃÌiÊÀi}ÕÃÊÃiÀÛViÃÊÊ “Living here is like being in a vÀÊ> Bed & Breakfast and I enjoy the beautiful grounds. I love Effective April 2, 2012, the waiting list will be closed until UÊ >ÞÊ>VÌÛÌiÃÊÃV i`ÕiÊÊ it so much my sister came to further notice at Illyrian Garden Apartments, 545 Salisbury >`ÊÕÌ}à visit and made the choice to Street, Worcester, MA 01609 508-753-7217 TTY 711. The UÊ ÕÃiÊ>Õ`ÀÞÊÃiÀÛViÊ«ÀÛ`i` move in as well.” ÊÊ waitlist is being closed due to its length. Applications received/ UÊ>ÌÊÃVÀiiÊ/6Ê>`ÊV>LiÊ«ÀÛ`i` — Estelle B. postmarked after April 2, 2012 will be returned. Professionally managed by Barkan Management Company. ILLYRIAN GARDENS, Inc. Call us for a Tour: Michael 978-314-2290 or Penny 508-248-5136 545 Salisbury Street, Worcester, MA 01609 12 Town Farm Road, Charlton, MA www.CharltonManor.info 508-753-7217 Fifty Plus Advocate March 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com 17 ➤ Neglect wages. There have and that’s not true, drifted up a little bit with all the budget been proposals to either. But the statu- cuts in the last couple of years. But it’s Cont. from page 9 increase this threshold tory standard is you still about a year on average, and that’s a or even eliminate it, have to be unable to big improvement. that could be a huge economic drag. applying the tax to all do work that exists in Q: Are you getting enough resources Q: One of the few issues that the presi- wages. What do you the national economy from Congress to address these backlogs? dent and Republicans in Congress agree think of those ideas? for 12 months or A: No. on is changing the way the government A: I think there’s more. Q: The Association of Administrative measures inflation. As you know, this some historic inevita- Q: If your claim Law Judges says that in order to reduce would reduce the annual cost-of-living bility on at least some is denied, you can backlogs some judges are deciding more adjustment, or COLA, for Social Security lifting of the (payroll appeal to an admin- than 500 cases a year. Is that too many recipients. Advocates for seniors hate the tax) cap. I think that istrative law judge, cases to do a thorough job on each one? idea. They want bigger COLAs, not small- most politicians and but the process can A: No, not at all. We set, for the first er ones. What do you think? I think most econo- take a year or more. time, productivity standards in 2007. It A: As a general matter I do think mists I’ve talked to Astrue Tell me about your was actually done by the chief judge, and that the president and the Congress are generally think that efforts to reduce these it was done looking at best demonstrated right that before you start talking about that would have less of a negative impact backlogs. practices of existing judges. At that point increases in the retirement age and things on the economy than raising the rate A: We’ve done, I think, some yeoman’s in time about 40 percent of the judges like that, it’s appropriate to try to have a itself. work in reducing the backlogs. ... If you were doing 500 to 700 cases a year. And conversation about what we might be able Q: Applications for disability benefits look at time to a hearing, what we call so that’s what we set as our goal, and to do in terms of COLA adjustments. increased dramatically when the economy average processing time, it peaked very that’s what it is, it’s a goal to shoot for. ... Q: The age when retirees can receive went bad. Why did that happen? shortly after I started at 542 days and it Now, about 80 percent of the judges hit full benefits is gradually increasing from A: I think a lot of people applied out of got down to about 340 (days) and then that goal. — AP 66 to 67. There are proposals to increase economic desperation. Very few of those it gradually even more, perhaps as high as people actually ended up getting benefits. Savings seen on diabetes supplies, other equipment 70. What do you think of those propos- If you look at the numbers, it’s one of als? the reasons why our approval rates have WASHINGTON — Starting July 1, diabetes patients will A: I think there’s some historical inevi- dropped dramatically in the last few years. edicare is announcing a price get blood sugar testing supplies through a tability that we will move in that direc- Q: Aren’t most disability claims ini- cut. new national mail order program. tion. How far, I don’t think is historically tially denied? M Diabetes testing supplies now Competitive bidding for home medi- inevitable. Part of this we need to remem- A: Yes. average about $16 a month for beneficia- cal equipment, now being piloted in nine ber is not that the system is flawed or that Q: Why? ries. That’s going down to around $4.50. cities, will expand to 100 metro areas, there are evil people around here. I mean, A: Because the statutory standard is so Savings are also coming for many including New York, Los Angeles and we should celebrate a little bit of good stringent. In terms of the percentage who patients who rent home oxygen gear, hos- Chicago. news. Most of the pressure on the system get on, both in the beginning and at the pital beds, wheelchairs and other equip- Some seniors may have to switch sup- comes from the fact that we’ve had great end of the process, it’s somewhere usu- ment. pliers, but taxpayers will save nearly $26 medical advances and people are living a ally in most years in the 35 to 40 percent Medicare deputy administrator billion over 10 years. lot longer than before. range. Sometimes people talk like nobody Jonathan Blum said it’s due to competitive Outside experts say Medicare should Q: Social Security payroll taxes only gets approved initially, and that’s not true. bidding making inroads against wasteful make even greater use of competitive bid- apply to the first $113,700 of a worker’s Some people say, Oh, everybody gets on, spending. ding. — AP Benefit from the most extensive library of caregiving articles! Get the answers to: Let our t)PXEPZPVUSFBUTMFFQQSPCMFNTJOFMEFSMZXJUIEFNFOUJB experts t)PXEPZPVDPNNVOJDBUFXJUIBNFNPSZJNQBJSFEMPWFEPOF help you! t%PBEVMUDIJMESFOXPSSZUPPNVDIBCPVUUIFJSQBSFOUT t8IBUEPZPVEPBCPVUBHFSFMBUFEFZFQSPCMFNT You can scan this QR code to go directly to our t8IBUCFOFmUTBSFWFUFSBOTFOUJUMFEUP online library of articles t8IZBSFPOMJOFXJMMTEBOHFSPVT t8IBUJTFMEFSMBXBOEIPXEPFTJUBQQMZ UPZPVSGBNJMZ t%PDBSFHJWFSTEFTFSWFTPNFUJNFPĉ t)PXEPFTUIF.FEJDBJEmWFZFBSMPPLCBDLXPSL Find these articles and more at www.fiftyplusadvocate.com Over 20,000 visitors a d v o c a t e . c o m each month! 18 Fifty Plus Advocate March 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com What is a Rest Home? Part 1 By Micha Shalev How does a rest home for the elderly better choice. charge of the facility. Most ombudsman differ from an assisted living facility? A rest home for the elderly may accept program representatives visit these facilities ost rest homes serve individuals From a licensing standpoint, there is a or house an individual with medical-care on a regular basis. 60 and older, though many rest big difference. Rest homes are regulated, needs depending on the type and severity Always think about the end game. Many Mhomes still serve younger adults licensed and inspected by the Massachusetts of the individual’s medical condition and seniors are moving into assisted living and suffering from mental disability. Department of Public Health (DPH) and whether the facility can obtain permission when money runs out, they are asked to Rest homes generally provide room, classified as Nursing Home Level IV. Most from the licensing agency to care for the leave the community. Make sure that the board, housekeeping, 24 hours day super- of the rules and regulations that apply to individual. State licensing does not permit facility has a plan in place to ensure that a vision and personal care assistance with nursing homes Level I and Level II (regular rest homes to accept residents with some loved one will be able to stay. This is very activities of daily living (ADL), such as nursing homes) apply to rest homes as well. prohibited health conditions, such as the important for individuals diagnosed with personal hygiene, dressing, eating and The Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder need for tube feeding, IV treatment or treat- dementia/Alzheimer’s disease. A move to walking. Rest homes that Affairs licenses assisted living facilities. ment of open bedsores that are classified as another facility for such sufferers can create have a nursing staff also In Massachusetts, most rest homes for the stage III or above. Rest homes can greatly a transfer trauma. provide basic nursing elderly have between 12 and 64 beds and benefit individuals who need help with Most rest home communities don’t services. In addition, are locally owned, incontinence and activities of daily living. charge a care fee; instead they provide an “all rest homes store and Caregiving home-like facilities A rest home can only care for individuals inclusive” pricing model. At a community distribute medications with shared and/ suffering from dementia if it has the appro- with all-inclusive pricing, a family can better to their residents in the Tips or private rooms. priate setting and staff training to provide plan a loved one’s financial exposure prior same manner as nursing Assisted living facili- such care. A consumer should review the to qualifying for state assistance. homes do. ties usually offer private apartments in larger, facility’s plan of operation to understand its Next installment: How to decide when a This type of facility is corporately owned facilities with different approach to dementia care, special demen- loved-one needs rest home care. referred to as a rest home (nursing home fee options depending on the level of care tia services, staff training and community level IV, residential care facility, etc.); but, needed. resources, as well as the qualifications of Micha Shalev, MHA, is the owner of Dodge just as in many other states, Massachusetts Assisted living facilities have more restric- the medical and advisory team members. Park Rest Home and The Adult Day Club at is following a trend to also use the term resi- tions on administration of medications. When beginning a search for a rest Dodge Park located at 101 Randolph Road in dential care facility for the elderly (RCFE). Rest homes must meet care and safety home — especially for an individual diag- Worcester. Its programs specialize in provid- On many levels, rest homes are held to standards set by the Commonwealth and nosed with memory impairment and/or ing care for individuals with dementia and a much higher standard than assisted-living are licensed and inspected by the DPH. Alzheimer’s disease — it is important to Alzheimer’s disease. The facility is holding a facilities and are regulated in the same man- For details, refer to 105CMR 150.000- assess the opportunities for personal growth free monthly support group meeting on the ner as nursing homes. This level of care and 159.000 at www.sec.state.ma.us/spr/sprcat/ and choice for the individual as well as the second Tuesday of each month for spouses and supervision are designed to accommodate agencies/105.htm. care that is provided regardless of their children of individuals with dementia and/ individuals who are unable to live comfort- Prior to making a placement decision, physical or cognitive limitations. or Alzheimer’s disease. He can be reached at ably and safely by themselves but who do ask to review the most recent state survey When considering a facility, ask for 508-853-8180 or by e-mail at m.shalev@ not need 24-hour skilled-nursing care. and talk with the facility-licensing agency. references. Also, ask to speak with current dodgepark.com or view more information However, these individuals often need In most states, it is a public record. Be residents and/or their responsible parties online at www.dodgepark.com. Archives of more care and supervision than traditional aware of facilities with a long list of viola- to get the real picture of a life at the com- articles from previous issues can be read at large assisted-living facilities can provide. tions. A deficiency free facility is always a munity. Contact the ombudsman office in www.fiftyplusadvocate.com. Soon To Be A Smoke Free Community! Welcome Home to Affordable 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments COMMUNITY AMENITIES INCLUDE: Heat and Hot Water Off Street Parking 24 Hour Maintenance $PNQVUFS$FOUFSt'JUOFTT3PPN -JCSBSZt4FXJOH$FOUFS 0OTJUF-BVOESZ'BDJMJUJFT 8FFLMZ4IPQQJOH#VT 4PDJBM"DUJWJUJFTGPS3FTJEFOUT Please call 508-756-3594 for an application TDD (800)439-0183 Must income qualify. 55 years or older, disabled/handicap regardless of age. 39 First Street, Worcester, MA 01602 Fifty Plus Advocate March 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com 19 Money Matters Changing family dynamic may lead to tax relief By Carole Feldman dependents. to support her, supplementing “The rules are very pro- what she spends, and her annual WASHINGTON — taxpayer,” said Mark Steber, chief income is less than $3,800, you embers of the sandwich generation — caught tax officer at Jackson-Hewitt Tax can claim her as a dependent and between supporting elderly parents whose assets Services. If you are taking care of take the full value of the exemp- Mare nearly exhausted and adult children without someone and the IRS defines that tion. jobs — might find some relief come tax time. clearly — age, income, residency “Your brother’s daughter takes The bottom line is, who’s a dependent? Your kinder- tests and support — you should out a student loan of $2,500 and garten-age son, your adult daughter, her grandparents or be able to claim the exemption, uses it to pay her college tuition. maybe an elderly uncle or aunt? he said. She is personally responsible for “There’s a changing family dynamic because of the It comes down to the definition the loan. You provide $2,000 economy,” said Bob Meighan, vice president of TurboTax, of dependent. toward her total support. You can- an online tax preparation service. The Internal Revenue Service makes a distinction not claim an exemption for her because you provide less More people are living longer. According to the U.S. between a qualifying child and a qualifying relative. than half of her support.” Census Bureau, the number of older Americans increased To be a qualifying child, the person would have to be a Usually the items that go into determining support by 9.7 percent from 2000 to 2010, when there were about child, stepchild, foster child or sibling, and under the age are the cost of housing, food, clothing and medical costs, 40 million people age 65 or older. A longer lifespan puts of 19, or 24 if in college, who has lived with you for at including doctor bills and medicine. added strain on retirement accounts, which have already least half the year. The taxpayer would have to provide at But it’s not just the personal exemption that could help taken a hit in the roller-coaster economy. least half the support. taxpayers. Individual taxpayers might qualify and get the As a result, many baby boomers find themselves sup- A qualifying relative can be a child who doesn’t meet “extra benefit” of filing as head of households if they legally porting their elderly parents, in some cases footing the bill the qualifying child requirement, a parent or stepparent, can claim children, parents or relatives as a dependent, for assisted living or nursing home care. grandparent, niece or nephew, aunt or uncle or in-laws, said Jackie Perlman, principal tax research analyst for H&R Meanwhile, the unemployment rate for adults age 20 according to the IRS. They do not necessarily have to live Block . to 24 was 13.7 percent in December, considerably higher with you, but you do have to provide at least half the sup- For example, the 15 percent tax bracket applies to than the overall rate of 7.8 percent. port for that person. And that person’s income cannot taxable income up to $47,350 for heads of households Unable to find work, many young adults are returning exceed the personal exemption — $3,800 in 2012. and $35,350 for individual returns. At the 25 percent tax home — or never leaving, relying on Mom and Dad for “Unlike a qualifying child, a qualifying relative can be bracket, it’s $133,300 for heads of households and $85,650 food, lodging and more. any age,” the IRS says in its Publication 17. for single filers. What does this mean for taxes? Taxpayers can take an exemption of $3,800 for each Steber said taxpayers have to understand that it’s not “A lot of filers are going to have to pay particular atten- qualified child or relative who is a dependent. just nuclear family members who might qualify. Think tion,” Meighan said. More people may rely on tax software Here are some examples from the IRS: beyond children and parents. If you’re providing half the to help get them through the dependency issue. “Your mother received $2,400 in Social Security ben- support for an aunt or uncle, niece or nephew whose Depending on individual circumstances, taxpayers may efits and $300 in interest. She paid $2,000 for lodging income for the year was under $3,800, you may be able to be able to claim both their parents and their children as and $400 for recreation.” If you spend more than $2,400 claim them as dependents. — AP 20 Fifty Plus Advocate March 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com Reports: Medicare paid $120M in illegal care he taxpayer-funded Medicare program Services already had a system in place to do so, paid more than $120 million from but the reports found that the system didn’t Do You Want to T2009 to 2011 for medical services for catch improper bills until they had already inmates and illegal immigrants, in violation been paid. The reports also noted that the of federal law, according to two reports issued agency didn’t instruct its contractors to try Save $4,000??? last month by federal health officials. to recoup the lost funds. Under federal law, Medicare generally The agency agreed in the report that the Social Security Extra Help Rules Have Changed!! does not pay for services for either group system needs to be improved, and in April, of patients. But the program was billed for Medicare is launching a process to help detect You May Be One of 5,000 Beneficiaries more than $33 million in inmate care and and recoup lost money. more than $91 million for illegal immigrant “For cases where Medicare is informed of Now Eligible for This Program. care over that period, according to the reports patients’ unlawful presence after claims have 1. Do you have Medicare from the Department of Health and Human been paid, we are working to implement a Services inspector general. process for quickly and completely recouping Prescription Drug Coverage? In 2011, Medicare expenditures were these improper payments,” the agency said 2. Is your monthly income at or $549 billion, making the figures a fraction of in a statement. the program’s annual budget. But the reports The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid below $1,373/individual, $1,841/ come as the Obama administration and Services has already been using a new, highly couple? Congress look for savings in a lean budget touted $77 million technology system since 3. Are your resources at or below year. Putting a dent in Medicare fraud, esti- 2011 designed to stop fraudulent payments mated at $60 billion a year, has the potential before they are paid. $12,510/individual, $25,010/ for major savings. But lawmakers have been skeptical about couple? The reports recommend that federal the effectiveness of the system, and federal health officials establish a better system to health officials have said they are still working If you answered yes to these three questions, automatically flag charges for inmates and out kinks. Still, initial reports in December you may save up to $4,000 in prescription drug costs this year. illegal immigrants to stop illegal payments showed that the system has saved about before they are made. $115 million and spurred more than 500 The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid investigations. — AP To find out if you qualify for Money fears vs. benefits in Medicaid choice this program, call your Regional SHINE Program at WASHINGTON — The repercussions go beyond their budgets, resident Barack Obama thinks his directly affecting the wellbeing of residents 1-800-AGE INFO health care law makes states an offer and the finances of critical hospitals. 1-800-243-4636 (Option #3) Pthey can’t refuse. Here’s the offer: Whether to expand Medicaid, the If states expand their Medicaid programs federal-state program for the poor and dis- to cover millions of low-income people now abled, could be the most important decision SHINE (Serving the Health Information Needs of Elders) is Administered by the Mass Executive Office of Elder Affairs In facing governors and legislatures this year. FEARS page 24 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 March 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com 21 Aid & attendance for veterans: changes on the horizon By Linda T. Cammuso and VA rules sometimes change based on near future. The look back proposal covers provide legal advice. Because of the legal and the availability of resources. Some reasons any asset transfers, including transfers to an financial complexities involved in qualify- id and Attendance is a program of why veterans should use the services of a annuity or trust. The Medicaid rules have ing for veterans benefits, veterans should the Veterans Administration (VA) qualified professional to help them through enforced a similar look back rule for several consult an attorney who is skilled in estate Athat provides benefits for veterans the application process include: decades — currently it is a five-year period. planning, elder law and Medicaid planning. and surviving spouses who require regular •The rules for VA benefits and Medicaid/ Undoubtedly the benefits received from help from a caretaker to assist with eating, MassHealth eligibility often conflict — it is the Aid and Attendance program can pro- Linda T. Cammuso, a founding partner bathing, dressing and undressing, medica- critical to ensure that qualifying for Aids vide significant financial help to meet long- at Estate Preservation Law Offices and an tions and personal care. Blind individuals, and Attendance does not jeopardize your term care costs and improve the quality of estate planning professional, has extensive patients who are in a nursing home because future eligibility for Medicaid/MassHealth. care for veterans and spouses. However, experience in estate planning, elder law and of mental or physical incapacities or those •VA rules continue to be revised — most applicants should approach the application long-term care planning. She may be reached who need care in assisted importantly a three-year look back period process cautiously. at www.estatepreservationlaw.com or by call- living facilities are also on gifting/transfers of assets for veterans and While many veterans’ services organiza- ing 508-751-5010. Archives of articles from included. their spouses who apply for the benefit has tions assist veterans in filling out applica- previous issues may be read at www.fifty- been proposed and could be passed in the tions for VA benefits, they are not able to plusadvocate.com. Legal Briefs AARP Tax-Aide program offers free tax preparation help It is a fact that many BOSTON — •Energy Efficiency credits, including: veterans qualify for, but ARP Foundation Tax-Aide — the which may be available to •Proof of identity (picture never take advantage of, this little known nation’s largest, volunteer-run, free qualifying Bay State residen- or other documentation). benefit offered by the VA. The Aid and Atax preparation program — is avail- tial property owners. •All income statements Attendance benefit is part of an Improved able to help taxpayers with basic federal •Schedule HC, proof that apply to the taxpayers. Pension benefit program that offers benefits and state income tax returns until April 16. of health insurance cover- •Social Security num- to veterans and to their widows. Veterans Available to middle- and low-income age, which is required of all ber (Social Security card or who qualify are eligible for up to $1,732 per taxpayers, with special attention given to Massachusetts residents. Benefit Statement-Form SSA- month, while a surviving spouse is eligible those 60 and older, AARP Foundation This year, more than 1099) for taxpayer and all for up to $1,113 per month. Veterans with Tax-Aide provides face-to-face assistance at 600 AARP Foundation Tax- dependents. a living spouse are eligible to receive up to nearly 250 sites across Massachusetts. Aide volunteers have been Hampton residents (from •Copy of last year’s fed- $2,054 per month. The Improved Pension The volunteers are well versed in federal trained in conjunction with l to r) Janet Brehaut with eral and state tax returns. benefit program is not a new program. and state tax rules, and focused on helping the Internal Revenue Service Rita Vail, a local volunteer •Personal check if direct Actually, it has been available for over 60 taxpayers identify all the tax credits and and the Massachusetts depositing tax refund, with years — sitting idle — while millions of deductions for which they may qualify, Department of Revenue. bank checking account and routing num- veterans and their survivors have missed out. including: What to bring: If married, both spouses bers. Veterans need not be disabled from a •Circuit Breaker tax credit, which is should be present during an income tax service-related injury to receive benefits. available for Massachusetts property own- counseling session. Taxpayers must have To find an AARP Foundation Tax-Aide site However, the road to qualifying for Aid ers and renters who are age 65 and older available all information and documents in a local community, call 888-227-7669 or go and Attendance benefits is very complex and meet certain criteria. that apply to their 2011 income taxes, online to www.aarp.org/ma. CO-WORKING OFFICE SPACE IN WORCESTER Curious about STARTING AT $29.99 PER MONTH! 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MAJERCIK, DIRECTOR Start, Inc. “Serving All Faiths” 100 YEARS OF CONTINUOUS SERVICE Veteran owned 48 School Street, Webster, MA 01570 131 Lincoln Street, Worcester ¤¤ ÛÝÛoook`Yo¤eYb]j[ac[ge www.runningstartinc.com Call Ryan Leary at 774-312-7569 1-800-279-7429 22 Fifty Plus Advocate March 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com New health care markets on the way By Ricardo Alonso-Zaldivar to pay $4,937, about 8 percent of their income, or about $410 a month. WASHINGTON — A lower-income family would get a bet- uying your own health insurance will ter deal from the government’s sliding-scale never be the same. subsidies. B This fall, new insurance markets But while the government assistance is called exchanges will open in each state, called a tax credit and computed through marking the long-awaited and much-debat- the income tax system, the money doesn’t ed debut of President Barack Obama’s health come to you in a refund. It goes directly care overhaul. to insurers. The goal is quality coverage for millions Obama’s law is the biggest thing that’s of uninsured people in the United States. happened to health care since Medicare What the reality will look like is anybody’s and Medicaid in the 1960s. But with open guess — from bureaucracy, confusion and enrollment for exchange plans less than 10 indifference to seamless service and satisfied months away, there’s a dearth of consumer customers. information. It’s as if the consumer angle got drowned out by the political world’s Most people will go online dispute over “Obamacare,” the dismissive label coined by Republican foes. to pick a plan when open Yet exchanges are coming to every state. enrollment starts Oct. 1. More than 20 states are objecting to the exchanges that will be operated by the Counselors will be available federal government. Health and Human at call centers and in local Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius has communities, too. pledged that every citizen will have access to an exchange come next Jan. 1, and few doubt her word. Exchanges will offer individuals and But what’s starting to dawn on Obama their families a choice of private health administration officials, activists and impor- plans resembling what workers at major tant players in the health care industry is companies already get. The government that the lack of consumer involvement, will help many middle-class households pay unless reversed, could turn the big health their premiums, while low-income people care launch into a dud. What if Obama cut will be referred to safety-net programs they the ribbon and nobody cared? might qualify for. “The people who stand to benefit the Most people will go online to pick a most are the least aware of the changes that plan when open enrollment starts Oct. 1. are coming,” said Rachel Klein, executive Counselors will be available at call centers director of Enroll America, a nonprofit that’s and in local communities, too. Some areas trying to generate consumer enthusiasm. will get a storefront operation or kiosks at Even the term “exchange” could be the mall. a stumbling block. It was invented by When you pick a plan, you’ll no longer policy nerds. Although the law calls them have to worry about getting turned down or “American Health Benefit Exchanges,” charged more because of a medical problem. Sebelius is starting to use the term “mar- If you’re a woman, you can’t be charged a ketplaces” instead. higher premium because of gender. Middle- Polls underscore the concerns. A national aged people and those nearing retirement survey last October found that only 37 will get a price break: They can’t be charged percent of the uninsured said they would more than three times what younger custom- personally be better off because of the ers pay, compared with six times or seven health care law. Twenty-three percent said times today. they would be worse off in the Kaiser poll, If all this sounds too good to be true, while 31 percent said it would make no remember that nothing in life is free and difference to them. change isn’t easy. Insurers, hospitals, drug companies and Starting Jan. 1, 2014, when coverage other businesses that stand to benefit from takes effect in the exchanges, virtually every- the hundreds of billions of dollars the gov- one in the country will be required by law ernment will pump in to subsidize coverage to have health insurance or face fines. The aren’t waiting for Washington to educate mandate is meant to get everybody paying the public. into the insurance pool. Only one state, Massachusetts, now Obama’s law is called the Affordable Care has an exchange resembling what the Act, but some people in the new markets administration wants to see around the might experience sticker shock over their country. With six years in business, the premiums. Smokers will face a financial Health Connector enrolls about 240,000 penalty. Massachusetts residents. It was created Many people, even if they get government under the health overhaul plan passed by help, will find that health insurance still former Republican Gov. Mitt Romney and doesn’t come cheaply. Monthly premiums has gotten generally positive reviews. will be less than the mortgage or rent, but The Connector’s executive director, Glen maybe more than a car loan. The coverage, Shor, said Massachusetts has proven the con- however, will be more robust than most cept works and he’s confident other states individual plans currently sold. can succeed on their own terms. Consider a hypothetical family of four “There is no backing away from all making $60,000 and headed by a 40-year- the challenges associated with expanding old. They’ll be eligible for a government coverage,” Shor said. “We are proud in tax credit of $7,193 toward their annual Massachusetts that we overcame what had premium of $12,130. But they’d still have been years of policy paralysis.” — AP Fifty Plus Advocate March 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com 23 ➤ Fears worry or wait. Roughly half the uninsured Republicans. Hospitals treating the unin- pays doctors and hospitals far less than pri- people gaining coverage under the law were sured are pressing for the expansion, as are vate insurance. He says the Obama admin- Cont. from page 21 expected to go into Medicaid. The middle- advocates for the poor and some chambers istration and Congress missed a chance to class uninsured would get taxpayer-sub- of commerce, which see an economic mul- overhaul Medicaid and give states a bigger left out, the federal government will pick up sidized private coverage in new insurance tiplier from the infusion of federal dollars. say in running the program. the full cost for the first three years and 90 markets called exchanges. Conservative foes of “Obamacare,” defeated “Decisions are made by fiat,” he said. percent over the long haul. But last year, the Supreme at the national level, want to “There is not any sense of a federal-state About 21 million uninsured people, Court gave states the right to hold the line. partnership, what this program was found- most of them adults, eventually would gain opt out of the Medicaid expan- The entire debate is overshad- ed on. I don’t feel in any way that I am a health coverage if all the states agree. sion. The court upheld the rest owed by some big misconcep- partner.” The Obama administration says it Adding up the Medicaid costs under the of the law, including insurance tions, including that the poor is doing its best to meet state demands for law, less than $100 billion in state spending exchanges and a mandate that already have Medicaid. flexibility. could trigger nearly $1 trillion in federal virtually everyone in the United Many of them do, but not But one thing the administration has dollars over a decade, according to the non- States have health coverage, or all. Medicaid generally covers been unwilling to do is allow states to partly partisan Urban Institute. face a fine. low-income disabled people, expand their Medicaid programs and still “It’s the biggest expansion of Medicaid in The health care law will go Obama children, pregnant women and get the generous matching funds provided a long time, and the biggest ever in terms of into full effect next Jan. 1, and some parents. Childless adults by the health care law. adults covered,” said Mark McClellan, who states are scrambling to crunch the numbers are left out in most states. That could have huge political implica- ran Medicare and Medicaid when George and understand the Medicaid trade-offs. The other misconception is that tions for states refusing the expansion. W. Bush was president. States can refuse the expansion outright Medicaid is so skimpy that people are better These numbers explain why: “Although the federal government is on or indefinitely postpone a decision. But if off being uninsured. Under the new law, people making up the hook for most of the cost, Medicaid on states think they’ll ultimately end up taking Two recent studies debunked that. to 138 percent of the federal poverty line, the whole is one of the biggest items in state the deal, there’s a big incentive to act now: One found a 6 percent drop in the about $15,400 for an individual, are eligible budgets and the fastest growing. So there The three years of full federal funding for adult death rate in states that already have to be covered by Medicaid. are some understandable concerns about newly eligible enrollees are only available expanded Medicaid along the lines of the But for most people below the poverty the financial implications and how imple- from 2014 through 2016. federal health care law. A second looked at line, about $11,200 for an individual, Medi- mentation would work,” McClellan said. So far, 17 states and the District of Oregonians who won a lottery for Medicaid caid would be the only option. They cannot A major worry for states is that deficit- Columbia have said they’ll take it. That and compared them with ones who weren’t get subsidized private coverage through the burdened Washington sooner or later will group includes three Republican-led states, picked and remained uninsured. The new health insurance exchanges. renege on the 90-percent deal. The regular Arizona, Nevada and New Mexico. Arizona Medicaid group had greater access to health So if a state turns down the Medicaid Medicaid match rate averages closer to 50 Gov. Jan Brewer was prominent among care, less likelihood of being saddled with expansion, some of its low-income people percent. That would represent a significant GOP leaders who had tried get the law medical bills, and felt better about their still can qualify for government-subsidized cost shift to the states. overturned. overall health. health insurance through the exchanges. Many Republicans also are unwilling An additional 11 states, all led by Skeptics remain unconvinced. But the poorest cannot. to keep expanding government programs, Republicans, say they want no part of it. Louisiana’s health secretary, Bruce D. Federal officials say their hands are tied, particularly one as complicated as Medicaid, Perry says it tramples states’ rights. Greenstein, is concerned that the Medicaid that Congress intended the generous federal which has a reputation for being inefficient The remaining states are considering expansion could replace private insurance matching rate solely for states undertaking and unwieldy. options. for many low-wage workers in his state, the full expansion. States doing a partial As Obama’s law was originally written, In some cases, GOP governors are try- dragging down quality throughout the expansion would have to shell out more of low-income people would not have had to ing to persuade balky legislatures led by health care system because the program their own money. — AP Too Busy or Too Tired to Clean? Relax. We can do it for you! We’ll clean your home or business from floor to ceiling and everything in between. Certified Service for all your residential, Is Looking for a Part-time commercial and industrial needs. Delivery Person once a month! 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VOLUNTEER DRIVERS: ADVERTISERS Are needed year round to distribute excess food to emergency feeding programs s IN THEIR OWN VEHICLES s 3UNDAYS n &RIDAYS Please let them know s TIME TO SUIT YOUR SCHEDULE s DRIVE AS MUCH OR AS LITTLE AS YOU WOULD LIKE you saw their ad in the VOLUNTEER DISPATCHERS: Are needed year round to arrange for the distribution of excess food s WORK OUT OF YOUR OWN HOME s SHIFTMONTH 3UNDAYS AM n PM OR 7EEKDAYS AM n PM BE PART OF THE SOLUTION #ONTACT ,ISSA AT s 6)3)4 WWWRACHELSTABLEORG ThankTha you in advance for your help! 24 Fifty Plus Advocate March 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. 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Financed by MHFA Fifty Plus Advocate March 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com 25 Home Improvement Putting the ‘kitsch’ back in your kitchen By Sarah Wolfe Carrino and Colaneri brought some Dishware quirk to a country kitchen by install- Carry the kitschy feel to your cupboards itchens have become so serious. ing a retro range and hood set from and display shelves with dishes bedecked All that granite, dark wood and Colorado-based Big Chill, which offers in whimsical floral or bird patterns, and Kstainless steel. The heart of the fridges, stoves and even dishwashers in glassware in Depression-era hobnail or Mid- home these days is more like a sleek and any color but stainless steel, accented century Modern lines, said Bowles. severe shrine to haute cuisine. by chrome trim. Even a quirky red polka-dotted cookie But kitchens don’t have to be as stress- “It looks like a classic car. ... It’s like tray or serving piece can dress up an other- ful as an episode of Top Chef. Designers having a Bosch or Frigidaire with that wise traditional all-white table. are increasingly turning to retro, whim- kind of dependability but you’ve got Those looking to save money can look to sical touches like coffee cup wallpaper, that cool, retro feel to the whole thing,” family heirlooms, Bowles said. “Shop either bright vintage dishware patterns, and Carrino said. your mother’s closet or your grandmother’s colorful appliances and electronics to Kitchenaid and some small manufac- closet and you’ll find amazing things.” bring the fun back into this increasingly turers also now make blenders, mixers Accents streamlined room. and other appliances in funky colors like Atlanta-based artist Jordan Sandlin and “I think we’re reaching back to sim- that would work in today’s kitchens, where pistachio and tangerine to add panache her husband, Jeff, have embraced the kitchen pler times, when America was kind of on families gather, eat, drink and socialize — a to countertops. in their mid-century, split-level home by track and things were looking up. ... It’s fun, bistro atmosphere,” Shaw said. Countertops doing away with its old “buyer-friendly” neu- something that hits an emotional chord,” Anthony Carrino and John Colaneri, Speaking of counters, don’t think you’re tral color scheme in favor of robin’s-egg-blue said Rosanna Bowles, founder and owner hosts of HGTV’s Kitchen Cousins, introduced relegated to granite, solid surface or laminate cabinets, red Formica countertops, vintage of the Seattle-based Rosanna Inc. tableware a retro feel in one of their recent kitchen choices. light fixtures, and plenty of thrift store and line. makeovers by attaching paneling from Try something fresh and unique like the estate sale finds. Here are some fun and simple ways to put Inhabit Living in a basket-weave pattern Motivo embossed collection by California- A collection of screen-printed serving the “kitsch” back into your kitchen. to the walls. based CaesarStone, which is primarily adver- trays dating to the 1950s line the wall above Wallpaper and wallcoverings “After you install the panels, you can tised as a wall treatment but which Carrino the kitchen cabinets, while a recent find Ditch the staid neutrals in favor of a fun caulk the seams, sand them down a bit, put used as a surface for kitchen countertops. — an original, signed Charlie Harper print wallpaper, said Gina Shaw, a designer with some primer on and add a big pop of color,” “We saw it and bought it on the spot,” he of two white eagles set against a light gray Pennsylvania-based York Wallcoverings. Carrino said. said. “We designed it into the first kitchen background — dresses up a barren wall. The company’s new Bistro 750 collection Appliances we could find. It is absolutely gorgeous.” A red-and-white, 1950s formica table, features a savory mix of fanciful fruit, cutlery, Also big in kitchens right now are retro The collection comes in lace and croco- vinyl chairs, old bourbon bottles and vintage kitchen utensils and coffee cups in cheery appliances that look like they belong in dile patterns, and adds texture to a space by plates further separate their kitchen from colors like teal, salmon and lime. grandma’s 1950s kitchen but run like their combining matte and glossy finishes in an today’s pack of “granite-covered kitchen “We really wanted to create wallpapers modern-day cousins. unusual way, Carrino said. monstrosities,” the couple said. — AP Free Booklet on What Every Family Should Know about Cremation! We have created 12 buildings Follow in our Heritage Garden, each offering a unique way to honor breaking a loved ones memory. These buildings honor a person’s life and memory, in a way that future news all generations would have a site to visit and reflect on where they month on came from. Our free booklet will explain all of your cremation options and if this www.fiftyplusadvocate.com choice fits your needs. Mail Coupon Below Don’t wait for the next issue or Call 508-791-0350 of the Fifty Plus Advocate DETAILS MAIL TO: Worcester County Memorial Park, ARE newspaper to get the 217 Richards Ave., Paxton, MA 01612 FREE most updated information! Name: Address: VISIT City: Zip Code: www.fiftyplusadvocate.com Phone: TODAY! 26 Fifty Plus Advocate March 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com Do-it-yourselfers give new life to old dinnerware By Hillary Speed Others take the Sharpie ment set, she said. idea to another level and — if Then, just thread a key ring intage dishware doesn’t have to gather the dishes are ovenproof — through the hole, and you have a dust in the china cabinet. bake the marker on to make meaningful and practical new use V Outdated table settings, such as it permanent. Many crafting for an old chunk of china. a stack of your grandmother’s old plates or blogs call for drawing with a If you have beautiful old pieces a bundle of used mugs you scooped up at Sharpie and baking the oven- of china that you rarely use, why Salvation Army, can find fresh life with a proof dish at 350 degrees for not turn them into something else? little TLC. All it takes is a marker or a drill 30 minutes. Marceli Botticelli of Franklin, and a basic plan. Christine Dinsmore, based Mass., runs an Etsy store called “I always find it a bit sad when things so in Portland, Ore., has used Tea Times Creations (www.etsy. loved by previous generations are thrown on the Sharpie method for free- com/shop/TeaTimesCreations). It the scrap heap,” said lifestyle blogger Anna handing original drawings. offers tiered stands, made out Nicholson, based in Yorkshire, England. On her blog, The Plumed Nest of old china that can be used as “I’m always looking for ways things can (www.theplumednest.com), serving platters or “tidbit” trays be reused, upcycled and overhauled to fit in she shows how she drew for anything from jewelry to loose with our 21st century style.” original monster pictures onto Anna Nicholson uses Sharpies to personalize vintage floral plates. change or keys. She also sells Here are some ways to spruce up old china plates for her children. Do-it-yourselfer Ashley Hackshaw, editor jewelry and nightlights made out and dollar-store dishes: That’s when she got inspired to draw her of the blog Lil Blue Boo (www.lilblueboo.com), of repurposed table settings and teacups. The popular craft-swapping website own kid-friendly characters. was inspired to find a use for chunks of a For the DIYer, Botticelli sells kits that come Pinterest is full of plate-decorating projects Dinsmore advises using non-toxic Sharpie broken Tiffany vase that she had received as with drill bits, fittings and instructions. And that tap into the “magic” of magic markers. paint pens, found at most craft stores and a wedding gift. if you’re too sheepish to drill your own holes Nicholson, whose blog is angel in the north online. Also, she recommends cleaning “I couldn’t bear to throw away the beauti- into your precious antique plates, she offers (www.angelinthenorth.com), uses Sharpies plates gently, never with an abrasive sponge ful pieces, so I decided to start making them to do it for you. to personalize vintage floral plates. In one or dishwasher. into useful items,” said Hackshaw, of Palm One of the biggest challenges in repur- set, she adorned each plate with a letter in Other bloggers suggest ceramic or glass Desert, Calif. posing old china for any project, she said, is the word “EAT,” to display in the kitchen. In paint if the dish will have frequent contact Her answer: key chains. finding the right piece. another, she used four plates to spell out the with food. Once you find a piece you like, the main “I am inspired by many different things,” word “HOME.” Danielle Warner of the blog The Yarn to job is to drill a hole and smooth the edges. she said. “It can be the color, the pattern, a She prints her own letter cutouts, using Tell (theyarntotell.wordpress.com) recom- You can use a household drill, using a carbide theme.” the font Bodoni MT, onto thick paper or mends Delta PermEnamel paint for a more drill bit to make the hole, and sandpaper and One client brought her a plate with an cardstock. She traces around the letters onto painted — rather than drawn — look. It’s steel wool for the edges. extremely rare pattern; the client had been the old plates with a pen, then goes over the also available at craft stores or online. Make sure to wear protective eyewear collecting china since she was 8, and had outline with a Sharpie and fills it in. Sometimes, old china is no longer in one and dip the piece in water to keep it cool, never found another plate like this one. “This is an easy project, but you do need piece. But that shouldn’t stop you from turn- Hackshaw said. “I said a prayer, took a deep breath and I a steady hand,” she said. ing it into something special. Or you can use a rotary tool and attach- drilled into the plate,” Botticelli said. — AP Read previous issues of the VETERANS AND SERVICE MEN & WOMEN Worcester County Memorial Park Proudly Offers Burial Benefits to Those Who Serve Our Country. IN recognition of our Veterans, we are On-line at www.fiftyplusadvocate.com offering Service Men and Women an opportunity to register for a pre-needed Now all four editions of interment space (Limited spaces still the Fifty Plus Advocate available in our Veteran sections.) Don’t newspaper are on-line for miss out. This benefit could expire at an entire year. anytime. Thousands of Veterans and Service men and women in this area Miss an issue? No problem! HAVE ALREADY REGISTERED. Download it to your Mail Coupon Below or Call 508-791-0350 computer and read it at MAIL TO: Worcester County Memorial Park, your leisure. Save important ATTN: Veteran’s Department DETAILS information for future 217 Richards Ave., Paxton, MA 01612 ARE reference. FREE Currently serving the mature Veteran’s Name: market of Massachusetts Address: with four monthly editions iBin Boston, t Boston B t South, S thBt Boston Metro-West and Central City: Zip Code: Massachusetts. Phone: Married: U Yes UNo For advertising information call Donna Davis at 508-752-2512, ext. 130. Branch of Service: Dates Served: Fifty Plus Advocate March 1, 2013 www.fiftyplusadvocate.com 27 no incisions. no pain. no scarring. no kidding. 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