Medicare Open Enrollment Made Easy with Free Counseling from APPRISE

NEWS AND POSSIBILITIES FOR SENIORS A Publication of

PHILADELPHIA CORPORATION FOR AGING October 2019 • Free

IN THIS ISSUE Health Care

HEALTH CARE Narrative medicine focuses on the person Survivorship: By Constance Garcia-Barrio Care after cancer...... 6 When it comes to staying healthy, talk can be worth a mint. Narrative medicine puts a premi- um on the stories patients tell their doctors about why they’re seeking treatment. “The patient’s story provides a pre-diagnostic framework,” said Donna Bradley Raziano, an award-winning geri- atrician and chief medical officer of Mercy LIFE, a health care organization that provides seniors with all-inclusive medical, social and community support services. “You get the patient’s wisdom Witchcraft: about his or her situation. A patient knows her Trial of 1683...... 14 iStock body better than anyone else.” Begun in the 1990s, narrative medicine helps Medicare open enrollment made easy doctors fine-tune treatments and feel more con- nected to the wider medical community. At with free counseling from APPRISE Temple University Hospital’s Lewis Katz School By Shannon Reyes benefits. In Philadelphia, APPRISE is oper- of Medicine, one of many medical schools offer- ated by PCA, which contracts with the May- • continued on page 17 Are you confused about or’s Commission on Aging, Einstein Medi- Funded by PCA Medicare? You’re not alone. Funded by PCA cal Center, and Center for Advocacy for the Many older adults turn to Philadelphia Rights and Interests of the Elderly (CARIE) Corporation for Aging’s (PCA) APPRISE to provide this service. program for help sorting out their insurance With Medicare’s open enrollment period options. beginning on Tuesday, Oct. 15, Pickett en- Editor’s Column...... 2 “Most of the calls are from individuals courages all Medicare beneficiaries to Calendar...... 10 who are retiring,” said Lynda Pickett, PCA’s evaluate their medical needs to ensure Health Brief...... 19 assistant director of in-home support pro- their current plan is still the right fit for gram and volunteer services. “New retirees them – a process that can be facilitated by Crossword...... 19 often have a lot of questions.” an APPRISE counselor. APPRISE is Pennsylvania’s State Health APPRISE offers free consulting for anyone NEXT MONTH: Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). The who is 60 or older. Paid staff and volunteers For The Ages Pennsylvania Department of Aging created that are knowledgeable in Medicare, Medi- Mercy LIFE APPRISE to help Pennsylvanians under- care Advantage and Medigap coverage are Nurse practitioner Nicole Blackwood (left) speaks with Mercy LIFE participant Pat Courtney about his medical stand and make informed decisions about available to answer questions pertaining to concerns. their Medicare and other health insurance • continued on page 13 Milestones 2 October 2019

EDITOR’S COLUMN By Alicia M. Colombo, Milestones editor

From now on, you’ll find my column in every issue, right here on page 2. Each month, I’ll share my thoughts WHAT IS PCA? on a different topic. It could be related to the issue’s theme, an observance or holiday, current events, or some- Philadelphia Corporation for thing that’s been on my mind. Got ideas for an Editor’s Aging (PCA) is a nonprofit Column topic? Email me at MilestonesNews@pcaCares. agency dedicated to serving org. If you’re looking for the monthly Health Brief, it’s Philadelphia seniors. In addi- now located on the inside back cover. tion to bringing you Milestones newspaper, PCA offers: • Care in the home “Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you • Home-delivered meals • Home repairs and know nothing about. Be kind. Always.” modifications • Protective services • Senior centers • Ombudsman services I came across this quote on the in- a brave face and “be strong” for those • Health education • Caregiver support ternet a few years ago. I don’t know around you, it might be time to seek • Information and referral • Employment and who said it, but the message has stuck help. volunteer programs For more information, call the PCA with me. IT IS OK TO NOT BE OK. If you • Legal services Helpline at 215-765-9040 or visit We all struggle from time to time don’t know what to do, start by talk- • Transportation pcaCares.org. – no matter our age, financial status, ing with a trusted friend or neighbor, ethnic background or religion. Some your pastor, or the counselor at your Call 24/7 to report suspected elder abuse. of us have physical ailments or dis- senior center. Make an appointment PCA Helpline: 215-765-9040 abilities, while others may have men- with your doctor for a mental health Outside Philadelphia toll-free: 888-215-765-9041 (TDD) tal health concerns. But many people screening, treatment and/or referrals. Published by Philadelphia Corporation for Aging pcaCares.org have a mix of the two. So, why isn’t A combination of medicine, psycho- Holly Lange, President and CEO Milestones is published monthly and distrib- our usual approach to treating mental therapy (a.k.a., counseling or “talk uted at more than 1,100 locations throughout wellness the same as it is for physical therapy”), and other approaches might Board of Directors Philadelphia, Lower Bucks and Eastern Mont- wellness? When a cough or shooting be best for you. Katherine E. Galluzzi, D.O., gomery counties. F.A.C.O.F.P., Chair pain doesn’t go away after a couple Check us out online: pcaMilestones.org. Judee M. Bavaria, Vice Chair days, it’s time to make an appoint- Medicare and mental health Glenn D. Bryan, Secretary ment with your doctor or go to an ur- One depression screening each year Barbara Waynant Murphy, Treasurer Editor: Alicia M. Colombo gent care center to seek medical treat- is covered by Medicare. Medicare Part Louis A. Bove, Esq. 215-765-9000, ext. 5081 ment. B (medical insurance) helps pay for Lynn Fields Harris PCA, 642 N. Broad St. Sadly, most people do not treat several other mental health services, Angela Foreshaw-Rouse Philadelphia, PA 19130 depression, anxiety and other severe including individual and group psy- Fran Miller Email: [email protected] mental health disorders with the same chotherapy, psychiatric evaluation, Victor M. Negrón, Jr Advertising, Subscriptions & Satya B. Verma, O.D. Distribution: immediacy as they would the flu. I medication management, partial hos- Lenore Wasserman Scola Joan Zaremba speak from experience when I say that pitalization, and treatment for alcohol John Whitman 215-765-9000, ext. 5051 you’re not going to get better by ignor- and drug misuse. Eloise N. Young Email: [email protected] Jacqueline S. Zinn, Ph.D. ing the problem or simply thinking Be patient and take care of yourself. Home delivery: $12/year Emeritus: Arthur E. Helfand, D.P.M. positive thoughts. Every day will not be easy or pleasant. With all of the mental health treat- But with the proper treatment, you can The views expressed in Milestones are not necessarily those of Philadelphia Corporation for Ag- ing (PCA). Milestones will not knowingly accept or publish fraudulent or misleading advertising. ments now available – from counsel- learn to accept challenges in life and Milestones reserves the right to edit, revise or reject ads. Milestones assumes no responsibility for ing and support groups to medication face them with calm assurance. You errors, misprints, omissions or misinformation; for failure to publish an ad; or for any damages of any kind. Neither the publisher nor any other party is rendering expert advice in this publication. and breathing exercises – there is no can’t change what happens to you, but No part of this newspaper may be reproduced without the permission of PCA. need to suffer in silence. If you find you CAN change your reaction to it. ©2019 Philadelphia Corporation for Aging. All rights reserved. yourself struggling to always put on And, that makes all the difference.

Funded by PCA

Milestones 4 October 2019

Health Care Medicare upgrades online resources

Medicare open enrollment begins Oct. surance (Medigap) policies. 15 and ends Dec. 7. This is the time for • Compare coverage options on smart- people with Medicare to review their phones and tablets. health coverage, as health and drug plan • Compare up to three drug plans or costs and covered benefits can change three Medicare Advantage plans side from year to year. Existing Medicare ben- by side. eficiaries who do not wish to change • Get plan costs and benefits, includ- their current coverage do not need to ing which Medicare Advantage plans re-enroll in order to keep their current offer extra benefits. coverage. • Build a personal drug list and find Navigating the Medicare maze can be Medicare Part D prescription drug challenging with the dizzying array of coverage that best meets their needs. iStock options available – nearly 600 Medicare tinue to have access to paper copies of ing services (see story on page 1). Advantage plans were added in 2019. Re- Other online tools the Medicare & You handbook, phone sources are available to help beneficiaries In addition to upgrading its Medicare support using 1-800-MEDICARE and Source: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid sort through all the choices. Among them Plan Finder, CMS has redesigned the free APPRISE health insurance counsel- Services (CMS) are improved online Medicare tools to Medicare.gov homepage and refreshed meet the needs of a growing number of the personalized MyMedicare.gov portal tech-savvy beneficiaries. to create a more seamless, easy to navi- New to Medicare? Here’s an introduction gate, personalized online experience for Medicare is health insurance for for an extra cost and usually in- New Plan Finder people with Medicare. Other new tools people 65 or older, people under 65 cludes prescription drug coverage. For the first time in a decade, the Cen- launched under the improved eMedicare with certain disabilities, and people of If you don’t choose a Medicare ters for Medicare & Medicaid Services initiative include: any age with end-stage renal disease Advantage Plan (such as a Medi- (CMS) launched a modernized and re- • The “What’s Covered” app that tells (permanent kidney failure requiring care HMO or PPO), you will have designed Medicare Plan Finder at medi- people what’s covered and what’s dialysis or a kidney transplant). Origi- Original Medicare. care.gov/plan-compare. The tool allows not in Original Medicare. nal Medicare, or traditional Medicare, • Part D – Prescription drugs: May Medicare beneficiaries to compare Medi- • A price transparency tool that lets includes hospital and medical coverage help lower drug costs and help care Advantage and Part D plans online, consumers compare Medicare pay- (see Part A and Part B) and is managed protect against higher costs in the providing a personalized experience ments and copayments of certain by the federal government. future. Coverage is provided by through a mobile-friendly and easy-to- procedures performed in both hos- Medicare is comprised of four Medicare-approved private insur- read design that helps users learn about pital outpatient departments and parts: ance companies. different options and select coverage that ambulatory surgical centers. • Part A – Hospital: Inpatient hos- best meets their health needs. • Interactive online decision support pital care, skilled nursing facil- Medicare Supplement Insurance, “The redesigned Medicare Plan Finder to help people better understand ity care, hospice care and home known as Medigap, helps pay some is another example of how CMS is em- and evaluate their Medicare coverage health care. of the health care costs that Original powering beneficiaries with price and options and costs between Original • Part B – Medical: Outpatient ser- Medicare doesn’t cover, like copays, quality information to take advantage Medicare and Medicare Advantage. vices; services from doctors and coinsurance and deductibles. Medigap of lower rates and new benefits in Medi- • An online service that lets people other health care providers; dura- policies are sold by private companies. care Advantage and Part D,” said CMS quickly see how different coverage ble medical equipment; and some Both Part A and Part B are needed to Administrator Seema Verma. “We want choices will affect their estimated preventive services, such as certain purchase a Medigap policy. A Medigap consumers to have the best tools pos- out-of-pocket costs. vaccines and cancer treatment. policy is different from a Medicare Ad- sible when open enrollment begins on • Webchat option in Medicare Plan • Part C – Medicare Advantage: vantage Plan and the two can’t be used Oct. 15.” Finder helps people get on-the-spot Optional coverage provided by together. Medicare Advantage is a way The redesigned Medicare Plan Finder support. Medicare-approved private insur- to get Medicare benefits, while a Me- allows beneficiaries to: ance companies that includes all digap policy supplements your Origi- • Compare pricing between Original How to contact Medicare the benefits and services of Parts nal Medicare benefits. Medicare, Medicare prescription These online tools do not replace A and B. Medicare Advantage may Source: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid drug plans, Medicare Advantage Medicare’s traditional customer service include extra benefits and services Services (CMS) plans and Medicare supplement in- options. People with Medicare will con- October 2019 Milestones 5

Health Care

PhotoMIX Ltd. Free local workshops help diabetics More than 1.5 million Pennsylvania tes self-management education course, residents currently live with diabetes taught by certified diabetes educators and 71,000 more are diagnosed with the and nurse practitioners at the Rodebaugh condition every year. There is no cure for Diabetes Center, Perelman Center for diabetes, but it can be prevented, delayed Advanced Medicine, 3400 Civic Center and controlled with healthy lifestyle Blvd., and at the Diabetes Education Cen- changes that include regular exercise, ter at Pennsylvania Hospital, 700 Spruce weight control and proper nutrition. St. To register for a class, or for more in- Monitoring blood sugar and taking pre- formation about class schedules and of- scribed medication can also help. ferings, call 800-789-7366 (PENN). “The earlier a person seeks advice and The Center for Urban Health works treatment, the better chance we have to collaboratively with the Jefferson Dia- manage or reverse the condition,” said betes Center to provide individuals Marc McKenna, M.D., family medicine, living with diabetes and prediabetes Chestnut Hill Hospital. education tools and resources to bet- If you have been diagnosed with diabe- ter self-manage, reduce complications tes or prediabetes, you can live well with and improve quality of life. This com- careful management of your condition. plete diabetes education series is offered Many of Philadelphia’s hospitals and in three weekly classes, starting Oct. 2 health systems offer educational classes and Nov. 6, from 3-5 p.m., at Jefferson to help diabetics manage their condition. Methodist Hospital, 2301 S. Broad St.; If your preferred hospital is not listed here, call to inquire. and Oct. 8 and Nov. 5, from 10 a.m. Chestnut Hill Hospital offers a free, to noon, at Jefferson Center for Urban four-week diabetes education program to Health, 211 S. 9th St. Call 1-800-JEFF- help diabetics understand, monitor and NOW (1-800-533-3669) to register. manage their condition. The program Temple’s Real World Diabetes Program features interactive discussions about provides classes to help inspire diabet- current issues impacting people with dia- ics to make healthy lifestyle choices and betes led by a certified diabetes educator control their condition. Day and evening and insulin pump specialist. The next classes are presented at the following diabetes workshop series is scheduled locations: Temple University Hospital, to take place the first four Wednesdays 3401 N. Broad St.; Temple Physicians in October (Oct. 2, 9, 16 and 23), from Diabetes Care, Temple Health North- noon to 2 p.m., at Center on the Hill, eastern Campus, 2301 E. Allegheny Ave., 8855 Germantown Ave. Registration is Suite 140A; Temple Health – Episcopal not required, and walk-ins welcome. For Campus, 100 E. Lehigh Ave.; and Jeanes more information, call 215-248-8030. Hospital, 7600 Central Ave. For informa- Penn Medicine offers a 10-hour diabe- tion, call 215-926-3780.

Funded by PCA Milestones 6 October 2019

Health Care Survivorship care: Meeting the long-term needs of cancer survivors

By Beth Goldner cialists. There are a host of interventions available, such as medications, physical According to the National Cancer In- therapy and mind-body wellness pro- stitute, there are an estimated 15.5 mil- grams such as yoga or meditation classes. lion cancer survivors in the United States. Exercise is a key health promotion strat- This number is expected to increase to egy of survivorship. “The only comple- 20.3 million by 2026. Of all cancer pa- mentary therapy that confers a survival tients and cancer survivors, 60% are 65- benefit of every cancer patient, at every plus. stage, is exercise,” Klein said. With an ever-increasing number of Part of survivorship is the opportunity people surviving cancer, and with the to be aware that there are limitations in majority of those survivors being older life and to use this as a springboard to adults, survivorship care is an important make changes. “For a survivor of a life- topic for seniors. limiting illness, there are so many op- A person is considered a cancer survi- portunities to fix relationships, to change vor from the time of diagnosis through your legacy and to live with intentional- the trajectory of their illness, or until they ity,” Klein said. die. “The health care system is designed to provide acute care, but cancer survi- Community perspective vors need long-term care,” said Susan From a community standpoint, sur- Klein, doctor of nursing practice and an vivorship includes helping survivors re- advanced oncology certified nurse prac- integrate into their life, and simultane- titioner at California Cancer Associates ously not allowing the cancer to define for Research and Excellence in La Jolla, them. According to Klein, survivorship is California. Because of this, the needs of iStock targeted to demystify cancer for the community, pushing us to rethink the lan- all survivors can be met through survi- problems, such as numbness and weak- ment. Survivorship care also involves the guage around cancer. “Cancer is still such vorship care. ness; and a host of other long-term health coordination of specialists and primary a feared word,” she said. “But the truth People who survive cancer face a host issues. Radiation therapy can cause hear- care physicians for all ongoing care. is, more and more people are living with of long-term physical, psychosocial and ing loss, memory loss and musculoskel- cancer as a chronic illness. We should spiritual needs. Chemotherapy agents etal issues. People may assume that the Psychosocial effects support senior citizen cancer survivors can cause heart problems; depression; challenges faced by cancer patients end In addition to the physical long-term as a community. Our interactions with anxiety; chronic pain; nervous system once their treatment has been complet- effects of cancer and cancer treatment, people who have had cancer can help us ed. But once treatment ends, the focus psychosocial effects are a critical factor redirect our own lives, too.” shifts to survivorship care and to meet- that survivorship care addresses. Community awareness about cancer is Crossword puzzle solution ing the unique needs of managing health “Nobody goes through the experience (See page 19 for clues.) also important, because, as Klein stated, and psychosocial challenges, leading to a of cancer, cured or not, and comes out “people all around you are living with better quality of life. the same,” Klein says. Survivorship care chronic cancer and chronic illness.” helps patients discover their new normal Some patients may have a metastatic Components of survivorship care and how they have been fundamentally cancer, meaning it has spread to new After completing cancer treatment, changed. Survivorship means helping a areas of the body, which can never be a survivorship plan is developed. This person find meaning in their cancer ex- cured. But, with survivorship care, they plan provides a summary of the cancer perience and reflect on their life. can live a very positive life. The ability treatment received and plans for ongo- “Cancer can help people to ‘right’ their to provide supportive care has improved ing care, such as schedules for follow-up lives, like adopting healthy lifestyles,” dramatically and survivorship care is care, timing of needed testing and recom- Klein said. critical to the long-term health and well- mendations for ongoing care. The goal is Health education and the associated being of cancer survivors. to prevent and detect new or recurring resources are part of a survivorship plan, cancers, and to address and manage the which can include guidance on diet, Beth Goldner is a writer, editor and creative writ- effects of the cancer and cancer treat- smoking cessation and referrals to spe- ing instructor.

Milestones 8 October 2019

Health Care Reducing your risk for diabetes By Carol Meerschaert sugar levels checked regularly. Type 2 diabetes, a disease in which your If you have diabetes risk factors or body doesn’t use insulin properly, is com- prediabetes, losing weight if you’re over- mon among older adults. However, there weight lowers your risk for developing are many things you can do to lower your Type 2 diabetes. The great news is that los- risk. While some risk factors for the dis- ing even a small amount of weight makes ease cannot be changed, such as a family a huge difference. According to the ADA, history of diabetes or your age, you can do a 5-7% reduction in weight reduces the something to control the most common risk for diabetes by 58%. That means that risk factors for diabetes, which include be- a 200-pound person would need to lose ing overweight, having high blood pres- just 10-14 pounds. But it’s not just about iStock weight. Paying attention to what you eat sure and being physically inactive. dy off a colleague’s desk, the cookie your activity out over at least three days during can lower your risk for diabetes, even if grandchild did not eat and the food you the week, and try not to go more than two you are not overweight. Diabetes and older adults tasted while cooking dinner.” days in a row without exercising. Good nutrition may help you to both Type 1 diabetes occurs, usually in chil- Once you have a food log of a few days, If you’re new to exercise or just don’t dren or young adults, when the body does lose weight and to control your blood get a set of colored pencils or crayons. like it, a brisk walking plan is a good place not produce enough insulin, a hormone pressure, both risk factors for diabetes. If Circle each fruit and vegetable with green, to start. Many smartphones track your that moves blood sugar into cells so you you have dieted for years and have trouble foods with added fat in black, foods with steps with an app on your phone. You can burn it as energy. Type 2 diabetes, which losing weight or maintaining your weight added sugar in blue and foods with added also get a pedometer to count the steps. is most commonly diagnosed between 45 loss or struggle with proper nutrition, try salt in red. This gives you a colorful, quick Many health insurance companies have a and 64, occurs when the body produces these tips. nutritional assessment. program where you count the steps you insulin but you become resistant to it, so Do you see lots of black and blue circles take each day to help you stay active and the insulin can’t do its job properly. Your Eat more fruits and veggies on your log, but hardly any green? This is will give you a pedometer for free. To in- glucose, or blood sugar, then rises and The Nurses’ Health Study, a study of a clear sign that you probably need to increase your steps, try a new exercise class, causes problems that can lead to heart more than 70,000 nurses, showed that clude more produce in your diet. The U.S. join a mall-waking program or just walk disease, problems with the nerves in your eating green leafy vegetables and fruit was government suggests you eat at least two around the house during TV commercials. feet and more. associated with a lower risk of Type 2 dia- cups of vegetables every day. Strength training makes your body You may have been told that you have betes. Other very large studies have found more sensitive to insulin and can lower Get moving prediabetes, meaning that your blood that people who ate more fresh fruit – es- blood sugar. It also builds muscle. The Another large part of the diabetes pre- sugar level is higher than normal but not pecially blueberries, grapes and apples – more muscle you have, the more calo- vention equation is activity. The ADA rec- high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. had a lower risk of developing Type 2 dia- ries you burn – even when your body is ommends a combination of aerobic activ- “I’ve worked with hundreds of people betes. Studies also show that people who at rest. So this type of exercise is good for ity with strength or resistance training for ate more fruits and vegetables were more weight reduction as well. Some examples who were told they had prediabetes,” diabetes prevention. likely to lose weight. of strength training include using weight says Theresa Wright, a registered dieti- Aerobic exercise is recommended for Vegetables and fruits are naturally low machines or free weights; using resistance cian and owner of Renaissance Nutrition diabetes prevention because it helps your in sodium and contain other minerals bands; and lifting light hand weights or Center Inc. in Plymouth Meeting. “They body use insulin better, improves blood that lower blood pressure. They are also took it as a warning call. We created a cus- circulation, and reduces your risk for bottles of water. Activities like house very low in fat and calories, which can tomized meal plan. They stopped eating heart disease by lowering blood glucose cleaning and gardening may also help help you lose weight. Read the labels on low-nutrient foods, increased their activ- and blood pressure as well as improving build muscle. canned foods to make sure there is little ity level, lost weight and got their blood cholesterol levels. Above all, do not surrender yourself to sugar back to normal.” or no salt added. The recommendation of 30 minutes diabetes, even if you are at risk. Staying of moderate-to-vigorous-intensity aero- healthy may start with an ounce of pre- Preventing Type 2 diabetes Keep track of what you eat bic exercise at least five days a week – or vention. *** As many as one in three American Wright suggests keeping track of what a total of 150 minutes per week – may For more information and an online adults, or 84 million people, have pre- you eat to keep your diet in check. You seem daunting. But keep in mind that quiz to assess your risk, go to the website diabetes. The American Diabetes Associa- can use a smartphone app to track your any brisk activity adds up. If you’re not action (ADA) estimates that 9 in 10 people food or write it down on paper. “For five tive, start out slow with just 10 minutes a doihaveprediabetes.org. with prediabetes don’t know they have it. to seven days, write down everything you day, then work up to the recommended Carol Meerschaert, M.B.A., R.D., has written or The ADA recommends having your blood eat,” she says. “All of it. Every piece of can- amount over several weeks. Spread your contributed to over 100 articles and books. October 2019 Milestones 9

Ask the Expert Taking charge of your pain through evidence-based programs

QUESTION: Are there ways to manage my chronic pain in addition to taking medication?

PCA’s Stephen Merrill, health ANSWER: promotion nurse supervisor. There are several non-medicative tech- week workshop that focuses on managing those connections well after the program has niques to reduce pain, including: chronic pain through a holistic approach. ended. It’s your turn! • Participating in physical activity. Mov- During 2½-hour weekly sessions, partici- Keep It Moving is part of the Chronic Pain ? Send Milestones your questions ing increases circulation and prevents pants learn how to manage their pain by rec- Self-Management Program, which was origi- about aging-related issues. We will stiffness. ognizing different types of pain and making nally developed at Stanford University and print select questions – along with • Eating carefully. Certain foods can be informed decisions. Participants are also re- is now owned by Self-Management Resource answers from experts at Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) – in linked to inflammation in the body. quired to develop a weekly action plan. Each Center in Palo Alto, California. Chronic Pain upcoming issues. Submit your name, • Drinking plenty of water. A properly hy- week, participants evaluate their success with Self-Management is among eight evidence- address, phone number and ques- drated body is less likely to cramp and the action plan and can solicit feedback from based programs offered through Philadel- tion by email to: milestonesnews@ experience pain. the program leaders and their peers. Con- phia Corporation for Aging (PCA). pcaCares.org or: • Practicing relaxation techniques. Medi- necting participants with others experiencing This workshop series is free to attend, but Milestones Editor, PCA tation and other relaxation techniques the same ailments is an important part of registration is required. To learn more about 642 N. Broad St. Philadelphia, PA 19130 can help take your mind off the pain. Keep It Moving. Participants form a support a Keep It Moving program starting near you, Milestones reserves the right to edit To learn more tips, Keep It Moving is a six- system with each other and can maintain call PCA at 215-765-9000, ext. 5134. submissions for print. October 2019 TUESDAY 1 Senior Strength Training. Gentle, energizing movements to improve bal- ance & support daily activities. Space limited. 11:30 a.m. Fumo Family Library. Register: 215-685-1758. SUNDAY MONDAY

6 7 YOM KIPPUR (begins at sundown) 8 Shadow Ball: The Story of Black Base- Farmers Market. SFMNP vouchers ac- First Monday Writers Group. Support ball. Rochel Garner Coleman’s one-man cepted. Noon to 2:30 p.m. KleinLife: for writers at any stage in the writing show pays homage to Negro League NE Phila. 215-698-7300. process. 6:30 p.m. Oak Lane Library. baseball players. 2 p.m. Parkway Central 215-685-2848. The Ways of Prayer. Discussion about Library. 215-686-5322. aging. 10 a.m. Cranaleith Spiritual Center. Register: 215-934-6206. $

Fall Fashion Show. Members walk COLUMBUS DAY the runway. 1 p.m. Center in the 13 14 15 Park. 215-848-7722. $ Clef Club Trip. Includes movie, live Old City Fest. Art, design, fashion & band & singer. Noon to 3 p.m. Marconi food. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. 3rd & Arch St. Older Adult Program. Register: 215-218- 215-592-7929. 0800. $ Ostomate & Continent Diversion Z Support Group. 2 p.m. PA Hospital, Cheston Conf. Room. 267-231-4517.

Active Hope Workshop. Social & 21 22 ecological challenges facing our 20 planet. 3:30-5 p.m. Cranaleith Spiritual Monday Market. Live music, vendors, HomeGrown Event. Produce vendors, Center. Register: 215-934-6206. $ food trucks & beer garden. 4 p.m. Lovett food tastings, nutritional presentations, Events that end with a “$” require an line dancing & more. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. entrance fee or advance ticket purchase. AIDS Walk Philadelphia. 5K walk & Memorial Library. 215-685-2095. Northern Living Center. 215-978-1353. Free events may request donations or run is the region’s largest HIV/AIDS sell items. Please call the number listed fundraiser. 7 a.m. Eakins Oval. Register: for pricing or other details. AIDSwalkphilly.org. Send your calendar items to: ATTN: Milestones Editor PCA, 642 N. Broad St., 27 Chess Club. 3-5 p.m. Nicetown- 28 29 Philadelphia, PA 19130 Aging and Mystics: Where the Two Jambo Mama Africa. Celebrate African Tioga Library. 215-685-9790. Phone: 215-765-9000, ext. 5081 & African-American oral tradition with Meet. Group reflection, discussion & Fax: 215-765-9066 storytelling from ensemble group Keep- Mosaic Arts Class. Uses colored glass, prayer focused on the process of aging. Email: ers of Culture. 2 p.m. Parkway Central stone & more. 12:45 p.m. KleinLife: 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Cranaleith Spiritual [email protected] Library. 215-686-5322. NE Phila. 215-698-7300. (Mondays Center. Register: 215-934-6206. $ through Nov. 18.) $ Event submission deadline: 25th of the month for publication in month after next. WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

Amici Opera Company Presents Midtown Village Fall Festival. Noon Coping with Mental Illness. Signs Bizet’s ‘Carmen.’ 6 p.m. Froncoluigi 2 CityLife Clinic: Adult Nutrition 4 to 8 p.m. 13th & Chestnut Sts. 215- of sadness, anxiety, stress, trauma & 3 5 Italian Restaurant. Register: 215-755- Workshop. 10:30 a.m. Walnut Street West 670-4323. coping methods. 7 p.m. Holy Family 8903. $ Library. Register: 215-685-7671. University. 215-341-3407. Philadelphia International Dragon Art Release. 1 p.m. Marconi Older Adult Painting with Acrylics. Learn to paint & Boat Festival. 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Kelly Night Market: Point Breeze. Roving street Program. 215-717-1968. (Wednesdays) develop basic drawing skills. All levels Drive. 610-642-2333. food festival celebrating the city’s diverse welcome. 1 p.m. Register: 215-487-1750. Share Food Package Distribution. food scene. 6-10 p.m. Point Breeze Ave. & Revolutionary Germantown Festival. $ (Fridays) Noon to 3 p.m. Center in the Park. Federal St. 215-575-0444. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 6400 Germantown Register: 215-848-7722. Ave. 215-329-7312.

9 10 PCA’s Senior Strut. Walk along 11 12 Boathouse Row led by the Mummers, Battle of the Bulge Lecture. Historian Coping with Grief. Support for those dancing, fitness demos & more. Register: Jazz Concert. Performances by profes- Bobby Eddo explains the strategies, sional musicians & light refreshments. experiencing the loss of a job, home or 215-765-9000, ext. 5055. $ tactics & timelines of one of history’s 1:30 p.m. Journey’s Way. 215-487-1750. loved one. 7-9 p.m. Holy Family Univer- Rittenhouse Square Fine Arts Festival. most important battles. 2 p.m. North- sity. 215-341-3407. Crafts, sculptures & paintings. 11 a.m. east Regional Library. 215-685-0522. to 6 p.m. Rittenhouse Square. 610-570- 2343. (Through Oct. 13)

Escape from Germany. Guest 16 speaker Sarah Meller. 7 p.m. 17 18 19 Congregations of Shaare Shamayim. Yoga at the Library. All ages & back- Flea Market, Bake Sale & Senior Dinner in the Sukkah. 6 p.m. Congre- 215-677-1600. grounds welcome for judgment-free, Center Programming. 10 a.m. to gations of Shaare Shamayim. Register: Trip: Washington, D.C. Madame Tus- gentle movement. 10:30 a.m. Lovett 2 p.m. Lutheran Settlement House. 215-677-1600. $ sauds Wax Museum & the Smithsonian Memorial Library. 215-685-2095. National Portrait Gallery. 7 a.m. to 8 215-426-8610. p.m. Center in the Park. Register: 215- 848-7733, ext. 225. $

Giants of the 1950s: Edward R. UNITED NATIONS DAY Murrow. Journalist Chris Satullo 23 24 25 26 discusses the life & career of this legend- October Birthday Party. 11:45 a.m. Crochet & Knitting Club. Create ary broadcaster. 11 a.m. Parkway Central Adult Café. Arts & crafts, movies, & KleinLife: NE Phila. 215-698-7300. items for donation to local, national Library. 215-686-5331. board games. 10:30 a.m. South Phila. & international relief organizations. Tai Chi for Adults. Supports health & Library. 215-685-1866. Older Adult Lunch. Make & enjoy a 1 p.m. Wynnefield Library. 215-685- reduces stress. 1:30 p.m. Oak Lane delicious plant-based lunch with Chef 0298. Char Nolan. 1 p.m. South Phila. Library. Library. 215-685-3299. Register: 215-685-1866.

30 HALLOWEEN 31 Giants of the 1950s: Margaret Harvest Party. Dancing, food & fun. Chase Smith. Scholar Kathy Kleeman 1:30 p.m. PSC – Broad. 215-546-5870. $ discusses the life & career of one of the most important figures in Congressional Halloween Party. Dancing, light refresh- history. 11 a.m. Parkway Central Library. ments & costume contest. 12:30 p.m. 215-686-5331. Marconi Older Adult Program. 215-717- 1968. $ Milestones 12 October 2019 A Jewish New Year etched in hope By Sally Friedman anguish too much. The Jewish High Holy Days are upon us: I can’t help but look back at earlier Rosh Hashanah (Jewish New Year) starts at times, when I was dealing with the haz- sundown on Sept. 29 and continues for two ards of coming of age with Carly’s mom days; Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) be- and her two sisters. gins at sundown on Oct. 8 and continues on Yes, there were shows on TV and bad Oct. 9. things happened to good people then, “So did you get a new dress for the High too. But not like the random chaos in Holy Days?,” I ask our youngest grand- this seemingly out-of-control world. daughter, the ever-cheerful Carly. This country sometimes seems to have If you are SINGLE and If you are MARRIED and After a long silence, Carly says, “I don’t lost its soul. Late at night, when we can’t think I’m going to synagogue for the hol- sleep, my husband and I quietly talk have a total monthly have a total monthly idays this year.” about our sadness for these young ones income of less than income of less than Now, it’s my turn to pause. I think I who appear to have lost the lovely gift of know what Carly is really saying. “Are safe nights and happy mornings. $1,561, and less than $2,114, and less than you worried about what happened at It was that gift we tried to give to our $14,390 in resources $28,720 in resources the Pittsburgh synagogue?” I ask, recall- own children. “Go out and play,” we ing the horrible shooting of worshippers would tell them, back when parents one year ago. Sadly, it is just one of many could say that with reasonable impuni- fatal shootings at U.S. houses of worship ty. There were bad guys even back then. in recent years – including three at Chris- But bad guys with guns didn’t shoot up tian churches in 2017. The violation of public places and kill innocent people in the safe, sanctuary of a holy place is so- multiples. bering. Avoiding the terrible memory is It’s not just the young who feel vulner- one option. Facing it is another. able today. In quiet tones, our friends Carly is 13 – a difficult age at best. She speak of feeling imprisoned in places is sometimes brimming with delight and that once were our domain: giggling. Other times, she is retreating “Every time I walk into a mall now, I into silence and clearly struggling. But feel like a detective on patrol.” “Is some- this is not just adolescent mood swings. body in these aisles carrying a weapon?” For Carly and my other six grandkids, “Will that exit be blocked if somebody the world has become a scary place – and has enough anger or pathology to maim witnessing that breaks my heart. and kill?” Guns, gangs and mass shootings in We all wonder if those little ones, who public places have given this once-joyful we love so deeply, will be safe in a world teenager fears that haunt her. Sometimes we’ve dehumanized. I am old enough to she talks about them; sometimes she have lived through polio epidemics, the doesn’t. And we, the elders of the tribe, scourge of AIDS, 9/11 and so many other are not always ready with answers. horrors. But never have I felt so fright- Carly is one of the lucky ones. She ened on the streets and in public places. has two parents who love her and try to And, never has a child in our family ex- guide her through what has become a pressed fear of being endangered in a terrifying world. She has a big sister who synagogue on the holiest days. also sympathizes with her. Her worries That conversation with Carly was a are, sadly, quite understandable. new and sad milestone. I hope that when During these recent months of ran- the High Holy Days are here, she will be dom shootings and violence that seem sitting by my side, marking a joyous Jew- to be out of control, there are no doubt ish New Year. millions more like Carly out there who Sally Friedman has written for the New York see too much, hear too much and surely Times and other publications. October 2017 Milestones 13 APPRISE • continued from page 1 health care insurance and coverage. APPRISE counselors guide participants through Medicare and evaluate all options for cost savings, including additional coverage options. For instance, participants may want to consider Medicare Part C, otherwise known as Medicare Advantage, which includes Part A and Part B coverage, but may also cover vision and dental. Medigap supplements are also available iStock to pick up the gaps in Medicare coverage, information on Medicare eligibility, op- which can include copayments, coinsur- tions with employee-provided health ben- ance and deductibles. efits, PACE eligibility and subsidies offered Once a participant has scheduled an ap- to income-eligible adults. For those who pointment with an APPRISE counselor, need to dispute a decision made by Medi- Pickett suggests making a list of primary care, APPRISE counselors can also walk doctors, specialists, health conditions participants through the appeals process. and current prescribed medications. Par- Although Medicare open enrollment ex- ticipants are urged to think about any new tends until Saturday, Dec. 7, Pickett urges health conditions, diagnoses or prescrip- those who need counseling to schedule an tions that have emerged over the past year, appointment as soon as possible. as you’ll want to make sure these are cov- “Participants can expect to spend some ered. time at the meetings,” she said. “It’s a pro- “Each plan has certain formularies or cess; often involving more than one meet- drugs that they cover,” said Pickett. ing.” Pickett adds that deadlines in Medi- Through a tool called PlanFinder, care are important and that filing on time counselors can identify plans that best will prevent participants from incurring accommodate the participants’ medical needs. any penalties. In addition to identifying the appropri- Shannon Reyes is public relations specialist at ate coverage, APPRISE counselors can offer Philadelphia Corporation for Aging. APPRISE contact information: To schedule an appointment, Medicare participants can contact the APPRISE provider closest to their residence: • Mayor’s Commission on Aging – 100 S. Broad St.; 215-686-8462 Covered ZIP codes: 19111, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, 24, 26, 28, 29, 35, 36, 40, 41, 44, 49, 50, 52, 54 • CARIE – 1500 JFK Blvd., Suite 1500; 215-545-5728 • Einstein Medical Center – 5501 Old York Rd., Klein Building, Suite 331; 215-467-7600 Covered ZIP codes: 19102, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 12, 21, 22, 23, 25, 27, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 37, 38, 39, 42, 43, 45, 46, 47, 48, 51, 53 For anyone who cannot travel to an in-person appointment, counseling is also available through Einstein’s teleservice line at 215-456-7600 on Tuesdays and Fridays. For more information about APPRISE or to volunteer as a counselor, visit pcaCares.org/services-for-seniors/benefits-and-insurance or call the PCA Helpline at 215-765-9040. Milestones 14 October 2019 Art thou a witch?

By Dorothy Stanaitis cial benefit of not having to pay the 10% tithe (a tax for the support of the church) Pennsylvania’s only witchcraft trial was required by other colonies. He also of- held in Philadelphia in 1683 with William fered Quaker women relative equality. Penn as judge. Many in Pennsylvania served as minis- In 1683, Margaret and Nils Mattson, ters, handled family finances and worked Swedish-Finnish settlers, ran a fine farm for social reforms. called New Sweden, near Ridley Creek in In addition, Penn abolished the death Eddystone, Pennsylvania (the spot that penalty for all crimes except willful mur- would later be home to the Baldwin Lo- der. Still, the charge of witchcraft was a comotive Plant). Among other things, serious one, especially when another Margaret grew herbs there that she used local woman, Gethro Hendrickson, was in her work as a traditional Finnish healer. also put on trial with Margaret. Neither Margaret nor Nils were very The two women listened in shock to familiar with the English language, but the witnesses. Charles Ashcom, for one, managed to live in harmony with the claimed that Margaret’s own daughter- neighboring families. That is until some in-law told him that Margaret had con- of the neighbor’s cows began giving very jured a great light and an apparition little milk and some cattle even died. It which frightened her. Margaret denied wasn’t long before several of the neigh- this and said that her daughter-in-law bors accused Margaret – that strange, should come and give testimony herself old Finnish healer woman – of bewitch- if it were true. ing the animals. And it wasn’t long after Penn asked Margaret, “Art though a those accusations that Margaret Mattson witch?” and Margaret gave a vehement was put on trial in Philadelphia for the denial. crime of witchcraft. The judge slated to Penn then questioned, “Hast thou conduct the trial was none other than ever ridden through the air on a broom- the Proprietor of Pennsylvania, William stick?” Confused by the language, Marga- ret shockingly said that she had. Penn himself. Penn recognized the jealousy and bla- The case would be held in Philadel- tant land grab behind the charges. He phia on December 27, 1683 before quickly and cleverly defused the situa- Penn, his Attorney General and two ju- tion by saying that since he knew of no ries – a grand jury of 21 members and law forbidding riding on a broomstick, a petit jury of 12, composed by Penn of she had a perfect right to do so. several Swedish and Finnish members. He gave the closing charge and direc- Penn also barred both lawyers for the iStock tions to the jury. Sadly, they were not prosecution and the defense from inter- transcribed. The jury returned a verdict rogations and conducted all the ques- of Margaret having the reputation of a Research Participants Needed tioning himself. witch but not guilty of bewitching. Both Understanding how difficult the Eng- Participate in a study about how older adults understand language. women were released to their husbands lish language would be for Margaret, after they posted a bond of 50 pounds Participants must be: Penn also provided an interpreter and which would be returned after six 65-80 years old • Native English speaker • No neurological history allowed Margaret to defend herself, a months of good behavior. The study involves 1 session at Temple University, lasting 1 – 1 ½ hours. move considered extremely progressive The verdict reflected Penn’s Quaker at the time. values and over-all tolerance. There is no Participants will be compensated for their time. Unlike Puritan society, which was record of any other witch trials ever be- For more information, contact Dr. Gayle DeDe: known for rigid intolerance of non- ing held in Pennsylvania. 215-204-2453 or [email protected] conformists, Penn welcomed them to

his “greene countrie towne,” offering Dorothy Stanaitis, a certified Philadelphia Tour

freedom of religion along with the spe- Guide, writes about history and culture. The Power of Choice. Your Home Care, Your Way “I can enjoy theI c luxury of living in the community with access to care whenever I need it.” -Ricardo

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Philadelphia seniors: Make your voice heard; take the city’s survey

Philadelphia residents have an op- older, are invited to participate in the portunity to help shape the course of survey by visiting PHLsurvey.com. Pa- city government by participating in a per surveys will be available at targeted survey that measures their attitudes Free Library locations, Parks and Rec- towards a wide range of city services. reation facilities, and senior centers. The City of Philadelphia’s 2019 Phila- It is vitally important that older delphia Residents Survey seeks to mea- adults and people with disabilities sure public opinion on the delivery of complete the survey, so their voices services, such as garbage collection; the and needs will be heard. The survey, condition of facilities, such as parks which takes about 10 minutes to com- and recreation centers; and to identify plete, is available in English, Spanish priorities among residents. and Chinese. It is open to the public All Philadelphia residents, 18 and now through Nov. 3.

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Narrative medicine • continued from page 1 alize she’s anxious about it,” Blackwood said. “I might ask the physical therapist ing courses and seminars on narrative and the occupational therapist to discuss medicine, doctors who practice it report- rehabilitation with her. I might also rec- Preserving Independence ed feeling “less isolated, frustrated and ommend a session with a psychologist to burned out.” help allay her fears. Talking with the pa- with Exceptional Care Narrative medicine, which relies on patient helps me find out how she’s feeling, For Our Clients: For Our Caregivers: tients telling their stories to health care then I can ask the appropriate team mem- • Bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting • Competitive Wages providers, represents an about-face in ber for assistance.” Blackwood noted that • Grocery shopping • Medical/Dental/Life Benefits the traditional approach to medical treat- Mercy LIFE cares for participants through ment, noted Nicole Blackwood, R.N., a an interdisciplinary team approach that • Light exercise • Paid Time Off (PTO) nurse practitioner with Mercy LIFE. “For involves the participant’s primary care • Light housekeeping • Holiday pay at time & a half decades, medicine seemed to emphasize doctor, nurse, rehabilitation therapists • Meal preparation • Paid travel time between clients detachment,” Blackwood said, who has and social worker. “This team-based ap- • Accompany to medical appointments • Paid training 28 years of experience in geriatric medi- proach allows for a deeper connection • Changing Linens/Laundry • Personal Protective Equipment cine. “However, narrative medicine en- between the care team and the participant courages conversation, connection and and creates a natural environment for • Community Integration • Discounts on scrubs & protective empathy. It allows the patient and the practicing narrative medicine,” she said. • Respite footwear practitioner to develop a closer relation- The relationship established through • Companion Services • Reward & Recognition program ship.” narrative medicine can smooth the way • Assistance while families are out of town • Flexible schedules Simply telling one’s story can be thera- for hard conversations like those con- • Holiday Helpers peutic, noted Pat Courtney, 70, who at- cerning the end of life. “Patients may shy tends Mercy LIFE’s day program in Nor- away from broaching the subject of life’s • Additional services by request or ristown. “At first, I felt reluctant to come last days or weeks because they sense the per service plan here,” said Courtney, a retired supermar- family’s reluctance,” Blackwood said. ket manager, who’s had a heart attack “My connection with the patient, built and is under treatment for leg pain. “But through many conversations, opens the everyone from the doctor to the driver of door to discussing end-of-life issues, like 24/7 On-Call Wellness & Home Safety Music & Memory the van that brings me here asks how I’m pain medication and whether to take Support Services Visits by Staff Nurse Program doing. They take time to listen. I feel bet- steps to prolong life.” ter just from that; I feel safer.” Doctors may face limits in talking time, Deeper knowledge of the patient that but patients can help make the most of Accepting: FREE comes with more discussion can lead to the time that’s available. If the prospect of Medicaid, Private Pay, In-Home Services Assessment greater compliance with treatments. “I a visit to the doctor makes you feel un- and most insurance plans may say to a patient, ‘When we talked, easy, Raziano suggests to “bring someone you said you wanted to go on more fam- with you who can break the ice and, if ily outings, but you hesitated because you necessary, ask clarifying questions. Emo- said you became short of breath with ac- tional support from a person you trust tivity,” Blackwood said. “I would point helps the flow of conversation, and the out the benefits of taking the prescribed doctor learns more about you.” medication and say that it may help them Bringing a written list of concerns can feel well enough to go on those outings. also make the conversation more produc- I’m not telling them, ‘Take this pill be- tive and help ensure that you cover key is- cause I say so.’ I can point out how [tak- sues, Blackwood said. ing] the medication, doing physical ther- Recognize that doctors are human too apy or using a walker can help them do and that a patient with an upbeat attitude more of what they enjoy.” is more likely to have a useful dialogue, Good communication also helps the noted Courtney. “A positive outlook can medical staff notice and address a pa- make all the difference,” he said. tient’s worries. “Say, a woman is sched- www.jevsathome.org uled to have knee replacement surgery, Native Philadelphian Constance Garcia-Barrio and in the course of talking with her I re- writes about many topics, including black history. 9350 Ashton Rd., Suite 102, Philadelphia, PA 19114 | 267.298.1325 Milestones 18 October 2019

Recipe Box Diabetic-friendly breakfast options Breakfast is often referred to as the most important meal of the day. But for many with a chronic condition, such as diabetes, navigating the array of sugar-laden breakfast options can be difficult. Living with diabetes does not necessarily mean skipping out on syrups, fresh baked goods and whipped cream forever. Instead, it may just mean finding healthy substitutes to those beloved breakfast staples. For more diabetic-friendly recipes, like the one’s included here, go to the American Diabetes Association’s website at diabetes.org.

Oatmeal Pecan Pancakes Ingredients: 1 cup quick-cooking oats 1 ½ tsp. baking powder 2 eggs 1 ⁄3 cup skim milk 1 ⁄3 cup mashed banana (about ½ medium banana) ½ tsp. vanilla extract 2 tbsp. chopped pecans 1 tbsp. canola oil Rama Khandkur Directions: oil in nonstick skillet over medium heat. Using a food processor, process the Drop ¼ cup of batter onto the hot skillet oats to a flour-like consistency. Mix oats to make each pancake. Cook until lightly and baking powder in a small bowl and brown on both sides. set aside. In a separate bowl, mix eggs, Mittera milk, mashed banana and vanilla. Add Source: Diabetes Superfoods Cookbook and Meal Breakfast Quesadilla begin to form, about 1 minute. Flip torti- to dry ingredients, and mix until just Planner | Cassandra L. Verdi, M.P.H., R.D. and lla over and cook for 1 minute more; do Ingredients: combined. Then fold in pecans. Heat Stephanie A. Dunbar, M.P.H., R.D. not let tortilla get crispy. ¼ cup canned green chiles Spread half the cheese evenly over the 4 eggs, beaten tortilla, covering to the edges. Reduce ¼ tsp. black pepper heat to low. Quickly arrange half the Milestones wants 2 10-inch whole wheat flour tortillas cooked bacon and half the egg mixture 1 ½ cup shredded, reduced fat cheese over the cheese. Cook until the cheese to hear from YOU! – cheddar, Mexican blend, Monterey starts to melt, about 1 minute. Fold tor- Jack or pepper jack We welcome your story ideas, feed- tilla in half to create a half-moon shape. 4 slices turkey bacon, cooked crisp and back and suggestions. (Story-specific Flip folded tortilla over and cook until crumbled comments or questions will be for- lightly toasted and cheese is completely Nonstick cooking spray warded to the writer.) Submissions of melted, 1-2 minutes. letters or articles for publication must Send comments & submissions to: Directions: Transfer quesadilla to a cutting board. be signed and dated and include your Attn: Milestones Editor Coat a small skillet lightly with cook- Recoat the skillet with cooking spray, ing spray. Sauté green chiles over medi- address and phone number. Submis- PCA, 642 N. Broad St. and repeat with the second tortilla and um-low heat for 1-2 minutes. Add beaten remaining cheese, bacon, and egg mix- sion constitutes permission to edit and Philadelphia, PA 19130 eggs and cook, stirring, until scrambled ture. Cut each quesadilla into 3 wedges publish in any form or medium. Email: [email protected] and set. Season with pepper. Coat a sec- and serve immediately with fresh salsa. PCA reserves the right to not publish any submission; receipt may not be acknowledged; and ond, large skillet lightly with cooking submissions will not be returned. spray. Place one tortilla in the skillet and Source: Tex Mex Diabetes Cooking | Kelley Cleary cook over medium heat until air bubbles Coffeen, Ph.D. October 2019 Milestones 19

Health Brief Crossword Solution The solution can be Use these tips Breezeways found on page 6. Across to secure your 1 Rebuff 22 Necessitated 36 Wool provider 51 More robust 5 Syringa 23 Symbol 38 Remnant 55 Abominable mental health 10 Max or Buddy 25 Outcry 39 Way to go 58 Environmentalist’s 14 Snake-dance 26 ___ McCoy 40 Gobi site concern If you are 60 or older, know that ac- participant 28 More florid 41 Doughboy’s digs? 60 Use a VCR 15 Make one’s day 32 Pettifogger’s 43 Bainter or Wray 61 Foch or Simone cording to the World Health Organiza- 16 Ashtabula’s lake advice 44 Sauce for the 62 Happening tion, you are among a group of aging 17 Buy ___ in a poke 33 Candidates’ con- flounder 63 Gaelic adults that will double in proportion 18 Renewed energy cerns, hopefully 46 Lao-tzu’s followers 64 Aussie cuckoo over the next 30 years. In fact, this amaz- 20 Distaff busy- 35 First name in 48 Israel’s airline 65 Takes five ing evolution of the world’s senior popu- bodies mystery 50 Bush 66 Mt. Rushmore’s state lation has already started and continues to climb. In 2015, seniors accounted for Down SSS group Instrumental only 12% of the world’s populace. That 1 Artist Rieger 11 Seed covering 29 47 BBH Singapore 2 Slangy negative 12 ___ Kleine 30 Disney’s middle compositions percentage is expected to grow to a stag- ciety you’ve always been. Some ways to 3 Unsettled Nachtmusik name 49 Part of AWOL gering 22% by 2050. 4 Largest digit 13 Funny Foxx 31 Swear by 51 Bumper-sticker engage in socialization: The WHO also notes that mental and 5 Tenants 19 Roy’s wife 32 Bed part word neurological disorders are present in • Join a book or discussion club. 6 Seine sight 21 Halls 34 Best and Ferber 52 Basso Pinza nearly 7% percent of seniors. It’s esti- • Get involved with community devel- 7 Gossamer goods 24 Electromagnetic 37 Nurturing 53 Superior 8 Lack of muscle device 39 Show position 54 Some breads mated that the number of seniors world- opment programs. tone 26 Arkansas River city 41 Kind of park 56 ___-daisy • Consider a health and fitness pro- wide who suffer from a mental health 9 Some linemen 27 Crescent-shaped 42 Associates 57 Look for deficiency will increase from 900 million gram that’s right for you. 10 Puzzle opening 45 Der ___ 59 Tolkien tree to 2 billion seniors as the population • Become an avid hobbyist. grows. • Become a member of one of the However, there are steps to ensure you many senior centers in the Greater are taking care of your mental health. In Philadelphia Region. fact, if you’re reading this, you’re actually • Ensure that your living situation sup- doing it right now. Reading and compre- ports your mental well-being. hension has proven beneficial in enhanc- Lastly, there continues to be ground- ing memory, reducing stress, keeping breaking advances in both traditional decision-making skills sharp, and even and holistic medicine that offer great delaying early onset Alzheimer’s disease ways to ensure proper brain health and and dementia. There are many factors function. Something as simple as re- that affect our mental capacity and over- membering to take vitamins can go a all mental health as we age. Depression long way in sustaining and even improv- is a major factor stemming from isola- ing mental health. tion, bereavement, or even a loss of self- Support to kick start many of these worth stemming from a retirement – and efforts is offered and provided via pro- at times, the stress that comes from a grams and services from Philadelphia drop in socioeconomic status as a result. Corporation for Aging (PCA). For over While issues involving substance abuse 40 years, PCA has aided in efforts to help affect just 1% of the world’s population with companionship, both in and out of 60 and over, nearly a quarter of those the home, transportation services to get will result in death due to self-harm. you to where you need to be in addition Fortunately, there are ways to ensure to providing older Philadelphians with you remain happy, healthy and safe. the necessary resources to meet their in- Socialization is perhaps one of the best dividual needs. things you can do to remain sharp and feeling like the important member of so- Source: World Health Organization OurOur Community. Community.Our Community. OurOur Health. Health. Our Health. Our Community. Our Health. PAPA Health HealthPA & & WellnessHealth Wellness &is focusedWellnessfocused on on whole iswhole focused on whole healthhealthPA Healthcare, care, refl& refl Wellness ecting ecting ison focused aa person’sperson’s on whole total total health care, refl ecting on a person’s total well-beingwell-beinghealth and and meeting meeting care, refleacheach ecting person’s person’s on unique unique a person’s total well-being and meeting each person’s unique needs. Providing whole health care and long needs.needs. 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We understand and PAHealthWellness.comaddressPAHealthWellness.com barriers to health and provide PAHealthWellness.comaccess1-844-626-68131-844-626-6813 to the best care for each and every person1-844-626-6813 to live his or her best life. PAHealthWellness.com 1-844-626-6813