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Oct 3, 2017 - Page 2. Better Senior Living. October 2017 ... them, one that will long outlast you and become a treasured
Better SENIOR LIVING October 2017

Inside This Issue Moments with Marvel........ Page 3 Talk to Your Great-GreatGrandchildren Legal Matters..................... Page 4 Disaster Relief: Know Before You Give Retirement FUND$............ Page 5 Financial Benefits to Life Insurance Fit & Active...................... Page 14 Stay Healthy with Cancer Awareness and Non-Invasive Screenings Caregivers Corner ............. Page 15 Is it Alzheimer’s or Something Else? Early Signs & Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Senior Romance, Sex, and Relationships ...................Page 16 Caregiving versus Romance Legalese........................... Page 17 Jimmo Settlement and Skilled Care Medicare Coverage Medicare Open Enrollment runs from

October 15 – December 9

Call 785-727-7872 to make an appointment to review your plans.

www.YourSRC.org

John Towner Celebrates 15 Years Directing the New Horizons Band Michelle Meier, Editor

This season of the New Horizons Band marks the 15th year with John Towner as the band director. The history of the New Horizons Band in Lawrence goes back 20 years to 1996 when Dr. Roy Ernst, professor emeritus at the University of Rochester’s Eastman School of Music in New York, presented the idea based on a national movement to the directors of the senior center. Towner took the lead of the band on his first day at rehearsal. Towner met Clyde Bysom, a member of the New Horizons Band, at church who encouraged him to stop by practice at the senior center. After playing one or two songs at that first rehearsal, Clyde said, “You might as well take over.” The director of the New Horizons Band at the time, George Boberg, a retired percussion instructor at the University of Kansas had been the director, but was moving to Florida, so John Towner stepped up that day in practice and has been leading the band ever since. “That’s how I got the job!” Towner was an obvious choice to become the director as he has been playing trombone since he was a child. “When I started, I was too small to reach all seven positions. I think I could reach four or five.” Eventually he grew enough to master the instrument and incorporated his musical talents throughout his formative years, on into college, and eventually he made a career of it. He graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in music education and taught music education for over 38 years. He had also directed the Shawnee Civic Band

for eight years before moving to Lawrence. When Towner first took over, the New Horizons Band mostly gathered to play for their own entertainment. The band was part of a national movement that created an opportunity for ensemble music participation for both new adult learners and for those who played music in school many years before. Members find many positive aspects of participating in the band, ranging from socialization to accomplishment to health benefits. It didn’t take long for Towner to realize that the band should be playing in the community. Having played in a jazz band in Shawnee, he knew exactly what to do. “We played weekly at a local nursing home. It makes it a lot more fun to play for an audience.” Currently the New Horizons Band is scheduled at one or more performances each month at local senior living facilities. Find details on the New Horizons band on page 10.

785-842-0543 • Temporary Location: 2920 Haskell Ave • Mailing Address: 745 Vermont St • Lawrence, KS 66044

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Better Senior Living

October 2017

Moments with Marvel

Talk to Your Great-Great-Grandchildren

By Dr. Marvel Williamson, Executive Director, Senior Resource Center for Douglas County Have you met your great-great-grandchildren? Not likely. How will they learn about who you are, what kind of life you led, what traditions you started that they still enjoy, and what it was like to be you? Without taking deliberate action to assure your messages are passed on, they will hear only vague memories of their parents’ parents about you. So often I have wished that I had a recording of my parents talking about their lives that I could have shared with my children. They never got a chance to know their grandparents— let alone their great-grandparents and earlier. A rare few of us are fortunate to have diaries or journals passed down through the generations, but most of us know almost nothing about the people whose genes we carry. SRC is offering you a rare opportunity to send a message through time to future generations. On November 7, SRC will host a class on how to tell your story, featuring noted storyteller and teacher, Priscilla Howe. Priscilla is an internationally acclaimed guide on crafting stories by describing noteworthy and important aspects of one’s life. SRC has been working on rolling out this opportunity for many months. Included in the price of the class is a video session lasting up to an hour scheduled at your convenience, during which you will be recorded telling stories and messages you want to send to your children, grandchildren, and beyond. We can come to your home or set up the session in another location. You will receive an unedited digital recording of

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your session to copy as much as you want and pass along to your family. Recently an article in the AARP Bulletin described this very thing, citing prices for a 30-minute video ranging from $2,000 into the tens of thousands, depending on the company. SRC is offering you both the class and the video for just $300. If you want only the video, SRC will provide the recording for just $250. You can register and pay online at www.YourSRC. org/src-classes or contact Michelle Meier at 785-727-7878. Your video can be what you want to make of it. In addition to sharing your thoughts and memories, you can show photos, read a good-night story to your great-great-grandchildren, explain what it was like to live through a major historical or personal event, or give a personalized message to future generations. If you would find it helpful, we can set up your recording session as an interview conducted by one of our staff or your chosen family member. Looking for Christmas gift suggestions? Ask your family for a registration for you to take the class on storytelling and/or for the video session. Their gift to you will become your gift to them, one that will long outlast you and become a treasured family heirloom far more priceless than your best china. Preserving our stories is easier now than ever before, but so is the temptation to postpone recording them. If you have been wishing you had a way to leave a meaningful keepsake of your life that far surpasses old photos and a headstone, please consider this opportunity. We all have stories to tell. You deserve to be remembered the way you want to be.

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LEGAL MATTERS - A Letter From District Attorney Charles Branson

Disaster Relief: Know Before You Give Many families, friends, and neighbors have faced difficult times over the past several years, but our community has been fortunate it has been spared natural disasters of the magnitude we have seen this summer. From Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma, to the wildfires in California and Montana, there are numerous communities facing extreme levels of devastation. Over the years I have been in office I have witnessed how quickly and with great generosity our community responds to those in need. As this community continues to help those in need, I remind each of you to be cautious of slick scam artists. Most charities are honest in their solicitation of contributions. However, some organizations misuse fundraising and target well-meaning people who only want to help a worthy cause. Be wary of charities that spring up suddenly in response to current events and natural disasters. In 2005 when Hurricane Katrina hit, the FBI said more than 4,600 websites advertising relief efforts popped up, most of which law enforcement suspected to be fraudulent. To help protect you from those who would walk away with your money, I am including some tips on how to spot and minimize the risk of

being scammed by these unscrupulous thieves and scammers when donating to charities helping those in need. • Investigate before you donate. Scammers often use names similar to well-known charities or pretend to raise money for state or local law enforcement agencies. • Donate to national groups with a solid track record, and avoid giving cash donations. • Confirm the organization registered as required by law.

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• Visit www.give.org for information on tax deduction qualifications and charity ratings. If you believe you have been a recent victim of a fraudulent charity, please notify my office at www.dgcoda.com or 785-330-2849 and the Federal Trade Commission www.ftc.gov. Scams directly related to relief operations for Hurricane Irma should also be reported to the National

SRC Board of Directors

A publication of Senior Resource Center for Douglas County. Better Senior Living is published monthly and is available online and via mail by subscription. Michelle Meier Dr. Marvel Williamson Minuteman Press, 1404 E 24th St B, Lawrence, KS 66044

For advertising, calendar listings, or other content submissions, contact Michelle Meier at [email protected]. Senior Resource Center for Douglas County is funded by the Douglas County Mill Levy • Older Americans Act through the Jayhawk Area Agency on Aging • Kansas Department on Aging • Kansas Department of Transportation • special grants • project income • fundraising activities • and your donations. Senior Resource Center for Douglas County does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, age, sex, color, ancestry, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, or size. If you think that you have been discriminated against, you have the right to file a complaint with Senior Resource Center for Douglas County. 785-842-0543 • TDD: 1-800-766-3777 • Toll free: 1-877-295-3277 • www.YourSRC.org

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I am proud to be part of such a caring and giving community, and I want to insure that spirit is protected by aggressively pursuing anyone who tries to run a charity scam or scheme in Douglas County.

• Visit www.kscharitycheck.org or call 785-296-4565 for a list of charitable organizations registered in Kansas.

Better Senior Living Editor: Executive Director: Printer:

Center for Disaster Fraud at 866-7205721, emails can be forwarded to [email protected] and information can be faxed to 225334-4707.

Better Senior Living

Dr. Judy Wright, Chair Judy Bellome, Vice Chair Doni Mooberry, Treasurer Steve Tesdahl, Secretary

Hank Booth, Carol Bowen Kay Brada, Kelly Calvert, Dr. Dennis Domer, Ernesto Hodison, Dr. Ellen Paulsen, Janet Prestoy, Dr. Maren Turner

Paid advertising from outside entities in Better Senior Living does not reflect the policies or views or indicate endorsement by the Senior Resource Center for Douglas County. October 2017

RETIREMENT FUND$

Financial Benefits to Life Insurance By James K. Whittaker, M.S.

There are many myths and misnomers about the need and benefits of life insurance. What most people don’t know is that life insurance has many uses and benefits of which many people are not aware. This simple tool should be considered in any financial strategy as there are multiple benefits that go beyond leaving cash for your funeral arrangements. Income Replacement One important consideration in having life insurance is income replacement, hence the phrase YOU don’t need life insurance, but the ones who rely on you and your income need you to have it, even as a senior. Imagine this scenario: a 70 year old woman loses her spouse. Without a simple life insurance policy, her pension or income annuity payout could be reduced by as much as 50%. Unfortunately, this is a common scenario I see often with older adults who have lost their spouse. So, this same woman who has lost her husband, now finds that her monthly social security amount is reduced. Her house is paid off and she has other retirement assets, so she reduces her spending and quality of life because of the unknown. How long will she be left to survive on this reduced income? A woman living to age 70 has a significant chance of living into her 90’s, further compounding her concerns with longevity risk. This is where a life insurance policy on the husband would have ensured that she can maintain her standard of living and peace of mind, knowing she will have the benefit of a life insurance policy to replace his share of the household income. Extended or Long-Term Care Another use of life insurance is to manage the risk of having extended care or long term care in an assisted living facility or nursing home. Life insurance today is evolving to meet consumer needs and can be written to include benefits to fund extended or long term care. While no one can predict if or how long they might need this level of care, you can prepare for the possibility now with a policy that provides this benefit at a much reduced cost than paying out of pocket when the time comes. We can address specific long term care planning in a future column. Avoid Inheritance Taxes Individuals and families who have done well may have a large IRA, 401k that they leave to their children as their legacy.

October 2017

Their retirement account is pre-tax money so it’s never been taxed by the IRS. When a child inherits a parent’s IRA, it becomes a taxable event when funds are withdrawn. If your children are successful and in high tax brackets based on their own income, receiving a large inherited IRA may mean they are bumped up into an even higher tax bracket. There are life insurance policies, such as a survivorship policy, that allow you to leave a legacy gift to the ones you love generally tax free. Guaranteed Legacy An additional impact of having a life insurance policy that is often overlooked is that the benefit of the policy is a guaranteed cash legacy gift to your loved ones. Many retirees are reluctant to spend their retirement funds because they don’t want to spend the money they wish to be an inheritance. But similar to planning the costs of sustaining your final years, no one knows exactly how long s/he will live. Using a joint life insurance policy can ensure you are leaving your family a guaranteed amount so you can enjoy your retirement and spend the funds you have without worrying about what will be left. You can also utilize a smaller life insurance policy to leave a lasting legacy to your favorite charity. The monthly cost of a small policy can make it possible to leave a substantial gift without spending the full benefit amount over the course of the policy. A small policy like this can be a small investment, but leave a lasting legacy. Focus on the Result The important point I am making is that there are many ways to utilize the benefits of a life insurance policy. Don’t focus on what it’s called but what it does. Life insurance used properly in conjunction with other financial/insurance strategies may simplify maximizes your life and the lives of those you love. (The information in this article is not meant to be financial advice. This information should not be relied on as a substitute for obtaining financial planning advice from a financial planning professional.) James K. Whittaker, M.S. is a Financial Services Professional with NYLIFE Securities, LLC and New York Life Insurance Co. Contact Jim at 913- 269- 8356 or [email protected]. His office is located at 1001 New Hampshire Street, Ste B in Lawrence.

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Leisure and Learning Activities Senior Resource Center for Douglas County (SRC) offers programs for Douglas County residents in the second half of life. Classes and other activities sponsored by other groups are also listed here. • Register for SRC activities at the Senior Resource Center for Douglas County online at www.YourSRC.org or call 785-842-0543. • Register for Lawrence Parks & Rec Department (LPRD) activities online at www.lprd.org, or register at the Community Building, 115 W. 11th St., Lawrence, or call 785-832-7920.

ART

ENTERTAINMENT

NEW CLASS! s Adventures in Painting

Wednesdays, October 11 – November 15, 9 - 11 a.m. Pioneer Ridge Art Studio, 1000 Wakarusa Dr, Lawrence $75 Explore the basics of painting while having a little FUN. Join veteran instructor Joan Martin for this six week session that will cover the basics of color, light, shadows, and more. This class is open to painters of all levels. The course will culminate in a nice show to feature your work. For more information contact Michelle Meier at 785-727-7878 or [email protected]

Final Friday: Weaver’s Windows

Friday, October 27, 6:30 - 8 p.m. Watkins Museum of History, 1047 Massachusetts St, Lawrence FREE A special event celebrating the opening of Mass Street Magic: Weaver’s Window Displays.

s Tuesday Painters

Tuesdays, 9 a.m. - noon SRC, 2920 Haskell Ave, Lawrence Bring your own painting project and supplies. 785-8420543.

s Acrylic Painting

2nd & 4th Sat. each month, 9:30 a.m. - Noon. Clinton Place, 2125 Clinton Pkwy, Lawrence Fee $20 per session. Drop in sessions for beginners and experienced painters. No registration required. 785-842-0543.

SRC activities are noted with a s.

O.U.R.S. Dances

Sundays, 6-9 p.m. Eagles Lodge, 1803 W 6th St, Lawrence $6 per person cover charge Dance to live country-themed music! Carry-in meal at 7:15.

s SCRABBLE Club – Open Play

1st, 3rd, and 5th Thursdays, 1 - 4:30 p.m. SRC, 2920 Haskell Ave, Lawrence 2nd & 4th Thursdays, 1 - 4 p.m. Lawrence Public Library, 707 Vermont, Lawrence Mondays, 1 - 4 p.m. Clinton Place, 2125 Clinton Pkwy, Lawrence

s Pool (Billiards)

Open for play Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. SRC, 2920 Haskell Ave, Lawrence

Free State Comicon

Saturday, October 21, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Douglas County Fairgrounds, 2110 Harper St, Lawrence The 12th Annual comic book convention in Lawrence will feature dozens of comic book professionals and many soon-to-be professionals. This year’s event will feature the first cosplay area since the early years of the show, as well as the usual array of retail exhibitors, who offer tons of comics, action figures & toys, clothing, and jewelry.

SPENCER MUSEUM OF ART SENIOR SESSIONS Spencer Museum of Art offers a series of informal gallery talks designed for senior citizens but are open to anyone. For more information on each session go to www.spencerart.ku.edu/ calendar/series/senior-session. Thursdays, 10 – 11 a.m. Spencer Museum of Art, 1301 Mississippi, Lawrence FREE

Heroic Legacies: How Two Armored Heraldic Figures Embody Lineage and Memory in the Northern Renaissance Thursday, October 12, 10 - 11 a.m.

Lilla Cabot Perry in Japan

Thursday, October 28, 10 - 11 a.m.

Around the Cake: A Visual Confection by Wayne Thiebaud Thursday, November 9, 10 - 11 a.m.

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Better Senior Living

October 2017

Leisure and Learning Activities SUPPORT GROUPS

s SRC Caregivers Support Group

First and Third Mondays, October 2 & 16, 2:15 - 3:45 p.m. SRC, 2920 Haskell Ave, Lawrence Meet with fellow and former caregivers in a safe haven to discuss challenges and issues surrounding being a caregiver of a senior.

JAAA Caregiver Support Group

First Wednesday, October 4, 1 - 2 p.m. First United Methodist Church, 704 Eighth St, Baldwin City Support group for caregivers of individuals age 60 or older. Meet with other caregivers in your area that may be struggling with some of the same issues you face while caring for your loved one. Jayhawk Area Agency on Aging staff will be present to answer questions and provide assistance. For more information call 785-832-0754.

Grief Support Group

First and Third Mondays, October 2 & 16, 4 p.m. Lawrence Memorial Hospital 325 Maine St, Lawrence Facilitated by LMH Chaplain Angela Lowe. Meets in the LMH Chapel office, usually the first and third Mondays of each month. For more information, call 785-505-3140.

Better Breathers Club

Second Tuesday, October 10, 10 - 11 a.m. Lawrence Memorial Hospital, Pulmonary Rehab Dept 330 Arkansas St, Lawrence October Topic: Nutrition for the Pulmonary Patient This free education and support group is for those with chronic lung conditions and their support persons. Meeting takes place in the LMH Pulmonary Rehab Department, 3rd floor. For more information, call 785-505-2850.

Cancer Support Group

Third Wednesday, October 18, 5:30 p.m. Lawrence Memorial Hospital, Oncology Center 330 Arkansas St # 105, Lawrence Join representatives from Lawrence Memorial Hospital’s Oncology Center for a general cancer support group. Open to anyone with any cancer diagnoses and/or others affected by their cancer. Meets third Wednesday of each month in the LMH Oncology Center. For more information, contact 785-505-2807 or e-mail [email protected].

Look Good, Feel Better

Third Wednesday, October 18, 1 - 2:30 p.m. Lawrence Memorial Hospital 325 Maine St, Lawrence “Look Good, Feel Better” is a non-medical public service workshop that teaches beauty techniques to cancer patients to help manage any appearance-related side effects of cancer treatment. Services are provided at no charge by trained volunteer beauty professionals. Offered and supported by the American Cancer Society. Advance registration required. Call 785-505-2807 to enroll.

Stroke Support Group

Third Tuesday, October 17, 4 - 5:30 p.m. Lawrence Memorial Hospital 325 Maine St, Lawrence For those recovering from a stroke and/or their family and friends. For more information, call LMH Therapy Services at 785-505-2712.

SRC activities are noted with a s.

PUBLIC EVENTS

s AARP Smart Driver Safety Course

Thursday & Friday, October 19 & 20, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. At SRC, 2920 Haskell Ave Fee $15 for AARP Members. $20 for Non-Members This two-day course will help you refresh your driving skills, save money, and brush up on proven driving techniques to help keep you and your loved ones safe on the road. Contact Larry Woydziak at lwoydziak@YourSRC. org or call 785-727-7875 to register.

Senior Legislative Forum

Thursday, October 5, 2 - 4 p.m. Lawrence Public Library, 707 Vermont, Lawrence Douglas County Coalition on Aging presents the annual Legislative Forum for seniors. Candidates running for office and those still filling out terms will be there to answer your questions on senior issues.

October 2017

CHAMPSS Orientation

Monday, October 2, 2 - 3 p.m. Lawrence Public Library Auditorium, 707 Vermont, Lawrence Come and learn how to have access to healthy meals by attending the Jayhawk Area Agency on Aging’s CHAMPSS orientation. For questions about CHAMPSS, contact Beth Kinnan with Jayhawk Area Agency on Aging at 785-235-1367.

Senior Engagement Coordinating Council (SECC)

Every Third Monday, October 16, 1:00 p.m. Baldwin City Recreation Center, 705 High St, Baldwin City The SECC is a voluntary council guided by an elected chair and co-chair, meeting on a monthly basis to work on improving quality of life for Baldwin City seniors.

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Leisure and Learning Activities OSHER LIFELONG LEARNING INSTITUTE The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute is a part of KU Professional & Continuing Education. Osher is committed to creating accessible and innovative learning environments throughout Kansas and the Greater Kansas City area, with special focus on participants age 50 and over, although anyone can participate. For a full description of each class or to register, go to http:// www.continuinged.ku.edu/osher/northeast.php. All courses are held at the Osher Institute, 1515 St. Andrews Dr, Lawrence, unless otherwise noted. Fees: $50 per course; income-based scholarships are available.

The Underground Railroad in Northeast Kansas

Mondays, Oct. 30, Nov. 6, and 13, 7-9 p.m. The Underground Railroad was a critical network of routes and safe houses that provided for escaped slaves.

The Adventures of Lewis and Clark

Tuesdays, Oct. 31, Nov. 7, and 14, 2-4 p.m. The Lewis and Clark expedition to explore the Louisiana Purchase and find a route to the Pacific Ocean.

The World of Versailles

Wednesdays, November 1 - 15, 2 - 4 p.m. Works of art tell fascinating stories about 18th-century France—the century of Versailles, the Enlightenment, and the French Revolution.

The Great War at the University of Kansas: Fall 1916 - Spring 1919

Friday, November 3, 2 - 4 p.m. As the University of Kansas began its 50th year in the fall of 1916, the administration of Chancellor Frank Strong was struggling against years of inadequate state funding, and German aggression was pulling a reluctant United States into the European conflict.

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute is an SRC Partner.

Russia: The Road to Revolution, 1837-1917

Tuesdays, November 7 – 21, 7 - 9 p.m. We’ll review the years leading to Russia’s October Revolution, starting in 1837.

Vietnam: More than a War

Mondays, November 13 – 27, 2 - 4 p.m. Vietnam has undergone dramatic changes in climate, rulers, populations, and politics even before its unification some forty years ago following America’s long military involvement there.

Three Dutch Masters: Rembrandt, Vermeer, & van Gogh

Mondays, November 20 - December 4, 7 - 9 p.m. Was Rembrandt an experimental etcher? Did Vermeer use a camera obscura? And how did Van Gogh’s use of color and impasto application of paint influence modern art?

Memoir Writing: Digging for the Answers to “Who Am I?”

Tuesdays, November 21 – December 5, 2 - 4 p.m. SRC, 2920 Haskell Ave, Lawrence Neither autobiography nor a diary, memoir writing reaches past life’s timelines and facts to dig deeply for answers to our most personal questions.

SRC activities are noted with a s.

VETERANS AFFAIRS

s VETERANS AFFAIRS

2nd & 4th Wednesdays Wednesday, October 11, 9 a.m. - Noon, and Wednesday, October 25, 1 - 4:30 p.m. SRC, 2920 Haskell Ave, Lawrence Clint Olson from the KS Commission on Veterans Affairs Office will be available for senior veterans at the SRC offices twice a month. No appointment necessary. For immediate assistance, contact Clint directly at 785-843-5233 or clint. [email protected].

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Better Senior Living

October 2017

Leisure and Learning Activities LAWRENCE PUBLIC LIBRARY SKILLBUILDERS Tuesdays, 10 – 11:30 a.m. Lawrence Public Library, 707 Vermont, Lawrence FREE

Managing Your Money & Finances October 3 Speaker: Barbara Braa, CTFA

Home Comfort: Maintenance, Efficiency, and Assistant

October 10 Speakers: Tony Hoch, Jerry Guffey, and Bruce Peterson

Feeling Fit-Exercise & You

October 17 Speaker: Charlotte Robinson, PT

Have a Successful Medical Visit October 24 Speaker: Tom Pfeiler, MSW

Estate & Legal Matters

October 31 Speaker: Web Golden, LLP

October 2017

Better Senior Living

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Leisure and Learning Activities LIFELONG RECREATION (50+) (LPRD) These programs are designed for those 50 years or older to maintain an active lifestyle. Those over 60 years old receive a 10 percent discount on programs and activities, excluding the Eagle Bend Golf Course and Learning Center, travel programs, and some co-sponsored classes. For further information, contact Gayle Sigurdson, Lifelong Recreation programmer at [email protected] or 785-832-7909.

Geography of Italy (LPRD)

Thursday, October 12 – 26, 2:00-4:00pm Carnegie Building, 200 Maine This three-lecture series will cover all 18 regions of the peninsula plus the island regions of Sicily and Sardinia. Using her library of illustrative photographs, Prof. Jan Kozma will discuss the defining traits of each region, dwelling on the physical characteristics, folkloric costumes, typical products, foods, and other distinctive features. Instructor: Jan Kozma, PhD.

Paleo Field Trip (LPRD)

Saturday, October 14, 9 am-12 p.m. East Lawrence Center, 1245 E 15th Street The Paleo field trip will culminate this fun series with a visit to a 300 million year-old marine site near Lawrence where everyone is guaranteed to bring home samples of marine fossils. Instructor: Craig Sundell.

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MUSIC

s New Horizons Band

All Rehearsals and Performances are Fridays, 4 - 5 p.m. Rehearsals at Brandon Woods Smith Center, Lawrence $5/yr. dues. Contact John Towner, 785-865-3519, or [email protected]. October 6, Performance at Meadowlark Estates, Lawrence October 13, Rehearsal October 20, Performance at Pioneer Ridge, Lawrence October 27, 3:45 p.m. Performance at Brandon Woods

s Intergenerational Choir

Rehearsals at Babcock Place, 1700 Massachusetts St, Lawrence Tuesdays, 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. Sing with KU students. Led by music therapy students from KU. The Intergenerational Choir will rehearse and perform once or twice a semester. Contact Deanna HansonAbromeit at [email protected].

Junkyard Jazz

Every Thursday, 7-8:30 p.m. American Legion, 3408 W 6th St, Lawrence Join the Junkyard Jazz Band every Thursday for an ongoing jazz jam session full of fan favorites and a full dance floor!

Better Senior Living

October 2017

October 2017

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Leisure and Learning Activities LIED CENTER PRESENTS The Lied Center of Kansas serves the state’s flagship university, students, and the greater community by functioning as a catalyst for the arts, creativity, engagement, and community building through diverse, relevant, and world-class artists. Buy tickets online at https://ticketweb.lss.ku.edu or call 785-864-2787. Senior citizens age 62 and over and active military (ID required) save 10% off the full-priced adult ticket cost for Lied Series Auditorium performances only. Parking at the Lied Center is free on weekdays after 5 pm and all day on the weekend.

United States Air Force Concert Band & Singing Sergeants

Tuesday, October 17, 7 p.m. FREE – Tickets Required This is a free event, but tickets are required. Limit 4 free tickets per person. Available in-person ONLY at Lied Center ticket office.

Dirty Dancing

Friday, October 20, 7:30 p.m. $40 - $55

Béla Fleck & Abigail Washburn Saturday, October 21, 7:30 p.m. $30 - $45

Chen Guang, piano

Sunday, October 22, 2 p.m. $30

Susan Werner, singer-songwriter Sunday, October 29, 7:30 p.m. $30

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American Brass Quintet

Friday, November 3, 7:30 p.m. $20 – 35

Garrison Keillor: Just Passing Through Sunday, November 5, 7:30 p.m. $40 – 55

Victor Goines/Jo Ann Daugherty Duo Monday, November 6, 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, November 7, 7:30 p.m. $35

KU Wind Ensemble w/ guest Jim Walker Wednesday, November 8, 7:30 p.m. $25

The Lied Center is an SRC Partner.

Better Senior Living

October 2017

Leisure and Learning Activities HEALTH & FITNESS

s OPEN ENROLLMENT S.H.I.C.K. COUNSELING

It’s time to review your Medicare Prescription Drug Plan coverage. The Medicare Annual Open Enrollment Period is Oct. 15 through Dec. 7. Call 785-727-7872 to schedule your appointment with a certified Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK) volunteer. Counseling sessions available by appointment at the Senior Resource Center, 2920 Haskell Ave, Lawrence

s Additional Countywide S.H.I.C.K. Counseling Dates

October is National Walking Month and an ideal time to get outdoors and walk. Sign up for Walk-tober 2017, a free walking program to complete in October on your own or with your own group. Optional Walk the Lawrence Loop group walks offered six times during the month. It is not necessary to enroll in WALK-tober to join in for the Loop walks. For more information, contact aynsley.anderson@lmh. org or 785-505-3066.

AM Walking Club (LPRD)

Monday - Friday 7 - 9 a.m. East Lawrence Rec Center, 1245 E 15th St, Lawrence FREE Need exercise? Join others at two locations and get your heart pumping and have a great time building friendships with fellow walkers. For more information, contact Ross Schraeder at 785-832-7950.

Thursday, October 16, 1 – 4 p.m. Arbor Court, 1510 St. Andrews Dr, Lawrence Thursday, October 19, 12 – 4 p.m. Prairie Commons, 5121 Congressional Cir, Lawrence Tuesday, October 24, 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Lecompton Pride Building, 620 Woodson Ave, Lecompton Friday, October 27, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Eudora Community Building, 1630 Elm St Community Room Saturday, October 28, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Baldwin City Library, 800 7th St, Baldwin City Activity Room

s Yoga for Every Body

Next session runs October 17 – December 5 Tuesdays, 3 - 4 p.m. Carnegie Building, 200 W 9th St, Lawrence Fee $28/8 week sessions Gentle yoga improves joint movement and increases core and leg strength. Bring a yoga mat and wear comfortable clothes. This class runs in ongoing 8 week sessions. To register online, go to https://yoursrc.org/product/yogaevery-body/. For more information call 785-842-0543.

s NEW! Welcome to Medicare EVENING SESSION Thursday, October 12, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Lawrence Public Library, 707 Vermont, Lawrence Fee: FREE New to Medicare? Join SRC’s Health & Human Services team as they present information on what to expect from the Medicare system at this informative session. Call 785842-0543 for more information.

October 2017

WALK-tober 2017

Pickleball – Open Play (LPRD)

Monday - Friday East Lawrence Recreation Center, 1245 E 15th St, Lawrence Sports Pavilion Lawrence, 100 Rock Chalk Ln, Lawrence FREE Pickleball free play is offered at East Lawrence Recreation Center, as well as Sports Pavilion Lawrence throughout the year. For times and information regarding free play or dates of scheduled tournaments please contact the Adult Sports office at 785-832-7920 or email at adultsports@lawrenceks. org.

Eudora Pickleball – Open Play (EP&R)

Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:30 - 11 a.m. Wednesdays, 6 - 8 p.m. Eudora Community Center, 1630 Elm, Eudora Join others in groups of two, three, or four for open play for some Pickleball fun. For more information contact Eudora Parks & Recreation at 785-542-3434.

Senior Supper and Seminar

Second Tuesday, October 10; supper: 5:00 p.m., seminar: 6:00 p.m. Lawrence Memorial Hospital Auditorium 325 Maine St, Lawrence The October topic is “Current Trends in the treatment of Prostate Cancer” with Dr. Jon Heeb. Seniors are invited to come and dine at LMH for $5.51 and enjoy a healthy three course meal. Reservations are required and must be made at least 24 hours in advance. Call 785-505-5800 or e-mail [email protected].

Better Senior Living

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FIT & ACTIVE

Stay Healthy with Cancer Awareness and Non-Invasive Screenings By Michelle Meier, Editor

Most people recognize that October is breast cancer awareness month. However, the fall months of September through November promote awareness of many types of cancer, including prostate, ovarian, breast, and lung cancers. Although the “c” word is one many dread, the reason why so many months focus on awareness of the various types of cancer is to promote early detection and prevention. Facing any type of cancer can be scary, but simple ways can help ensure that you can stay healthy by being aware of your potential risks, and getting checked before you face a serious cancer crisis. Body Awareness The best detection method is simple body awareness. One of the best ways to foster early detection and promote cancer prevention is paying attention to changes in your body. Keep an eye on recent alterations in your skin. Monthly breast exams and self-testicular exams for men can assure you are aware of new lumps or changes. For other areas that can’t be monitored as easily, any change in your normal body functions that continue for more than a few days can be an indicator to get more specific testing done.

Medicare Open Enrollment October 15 – December 7

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Screenings Ask your physician if some of the more non-invasive screenings are appropriate for you for early detection. With advances in many cancer screenings, many less invasive ways now exist for screening for many types of cancer. For example, some tests for colon cancer come as kits for stool samples collected at home. Thermography can also be used to detect numerous forms of cancer without the painful process of a mammogram or other unpleasant and invasive screenings. A PSA blood test for prostate cancer is a first-line method of screening. Let’s be clear, though. The invasive nature of the exam or test cannot be the determining factor when deciding to get screened. There is no substitute for advanced testing when it comes to any cancer diagnosis. If you have a history of cancer in your family or have faced other forms of cancer, regular screenings to monitor your status are especially important. If you have never had any screenings for types of cancer common for someone of your age and gender, start now! Early detection is key to positive outcomes when addressing any form of cancer. While unpleasant to talk about and some screenings can be uncomfortable, the point of all of the various cancer awareness months and events is to remind us all of the symptoms, testing, and treatments available to keep us fit and active well into the future.

Better Senior Living

October 2017

CAREGIVERS CORNER

Is it Alzheimer’s or Something Else? Early Signs & Symptoms of Alzheimer’s By Janet Ikenberry

Not long ago I had a conversation with a woman, we’ll call her “Ann,” who is the primary caregiver for her aging father. Ann’s caregiving journey started two years ago when her mother passed away. She began helping her dad with occasional meals and household chores. As time passed and her father’s grief began to diminish, they fell into a comfortable routine of regular visits and help when needed. Lately, though, Ann has started to notice some changes. Her dad is beginning to forget things they just talked about and plans they made. On one recent visit, she saw an overdraft notice from the bank laying on the kitchen table. Before his retirement, Ann’s dad had a long and successful career in accounting. He’s great with numbers and his retirement income is quite good. She figured there must be a simple explanation, but when she asked about the overdraft he became defensive, accused her of spying on him, and told her to mind her own business. Shocked by his response, she assured him that she only wanted to help. She left feeling hurt and confused. When he called her the next day to see if she would stop by, it was as if nothing had happened. Ann loves her dad and wants to be there for him, but she isn’t sure what to do. Should she be worried, or is this just what happens when people get old? Ann does have cause for concern. Her father is exhibiting some of the early warning signs of dementia. His short-

10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s From Alzheimer’s Association Find more information at www.alz.org

1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life

term memory loss, confusion with his checkbook, and changes in behavior are an indication that it’s time for him to see his doctor. The doctor will ask questions and may run tests to determine if the cause of Ann’s dad’s symptoms is a reversible condition. Perhaps he is experiencing the side effects of a medication interaction. Changing a prescription might be the answer. These same symptoms could also be caused by a kidney infection that can be treated and cleared up with antibiotics. There is also a possibility that he is suffering from depression, in which case getting the proper treatment will help. Through the process of elimination and with further testing they may come to a different conclusion. Ann’s father may be in the beginning stages of Alzheimer’s disease. When dealing with a difficult diagnosis, early detection and treatment is a good thing, and Alzheimer’s is no exception. There are medications that may help to slow the progression of the disease during the early stages. Early intervention can provide time for Ann and her father to plan and make important decisions together while he is able to voice his wishes and provide input into his own care. If you are concerned about changes in yourself or a loved one and suspect that dementia may be the cause, get a medical opinion. Learn more about the warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease and how to tell the difference between those symptoms and typical age-related changes by visiting the Alzheimer’s Association website: http://www.alz.org/10signs-symptoms-alzheimers-dementia.asp. Janet Ikenberry is the Director of Health and Human Services at SRC. She has been with the agency for over 24 years and is the facilitator of SRC’s Caregiver Support Group. Janet can be reached at 785-842-0543 or [email protected]

2. Challenges in planning or solving problems 3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks 4. Confusion with time or place 5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships 6. New problems with words in speaking or writing 7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to re-trace steps 8. Decreased or poor judgment 9. Withdrawal from work or other social activities 10. Changes in mood and personality

October 2017

Better Senior Living

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SENIOR ROMANCE, SEX, & RELATIONSHIPS: ADVICE FOR GROWN-UPS Q: I am taking over more of my wife’s care. While I still love her, it is harder to have romantic feelings. What can I do? A: You sound like a great husband who is honoring his marital vow to stick with his wife until the end, even when her health is failing. What you describe is not only common, it is probably inevitable to some extent. That doesn’t mean that nothing can be done and you should give up trying, though. First, let’s explore this change in feelings. Throughout your marriage you have weathered numerous ups and downs. Those challenging times were probably temporary, allowing you to return to your usual relationship after some adaptation. For example, pregnancy and children interfere with time and energy for romance, but couples do bounce back. Your own history of surviving and growing, always to return to a comfortable place in each other’s arms, proves you can handle this latest test. The declines of aging are somewhat different, though. Coping becomes a constant dance of adjustment to new challenges as the old ones continue. Little hope remains for returning to the old “normal.” Because one spouse is typically healthier than the other, the one with more ability takes on caregiver duties. This has a huge impact on the relationship dynamic. The new caregiver role feels more parental than spousal. Equality in all things between the partners is no longer possible when one loses some independence and begins to depend more on the other.

may compartmentalize them in your mind, so that you see your wife in two unconnected ways. Perform your caregiving activities in a certain part of the house that is in a different location than your lovemaking activities. Wear protective gloves when caregiving; go skinto-skin when getting romantic and affectionate. Use certain medicinal fragrances for caregiving (such as eucalyptus, menthol, witch hazel) versus sexy perfumes and cologne in the bedroom. Play upbeat music during caregiving, and soft mood music for romance. Urge your wife wear a plain clinicallooking garment during caregiving, and something feminine when you want to get frisky. Let some time pass between the two types of activities, and begin setting the mood to think differently. Willingness to adapt to aging is key to a successful marital relationship. You have already adapted in many ways over the course of your marriage; this new challenge is just another opportunity to show your resilience, creativity, and love. Send your questions to [email protected]. Names and identifying information will be removed. Questions may be edited. Answers are written by qualified licensed/certified health care professionals. Answers cannot be personalized for individuals and are intended for general information only.

Furthermore, caregiver duties can include aspects of personal care that are extremely intimate, such as toileting. Throughout life until this point, your wife did those things for herself or occasionally allowed a nurse to assist. You and she were able to keep those tasks out of each other’s sight, maintaining an illusion of polite distance. That is no longer the case. Romantic feelings may suffer when confronted with the realities of having to perform distasteful tasks. The answer is to separate caregiving tasks from marital and romantic pleasures. If possible, hire a qualified part-time helper. Your wife will probably be relieved that you don’t have to perform those tasks, both because she may have some embarrassment and because she is concerned about the strain it places on you. If you cannot afford to hire someone, get family, your church, or other supporters to help. Many are willing to pitch in on a rotating basis or to exchange services. You can also contact the Visiting Nurses Association for solutions that are incomebased. Another option is to consider joining an organization that provides help at a reduced cost, such as Community Village Lawrence. If you yourself must continue to provide the care, here are some ideas to help separate your role as caregiver from your role as husband and lover. Separating the two activities

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Better Senior Living

October 2017

LEGALESE by Molly Wood, JD

Jimmo Settlement and Skilled Care Medicare Coverage Q: My mother broke her hip, had surgery in the hospital, and was discharged to a skilled nursing facility for rehabilitation therapy. She was doing quite well. Slowly over the course of about three weeks, she was gaining strength and confidence. Almost without warning, the nursing home gave us a notice saying her rehabilitation therapy would stop because Medicare had determined that she was not making enough progress. That doesn’t seem right; she’s 83, so she has to work at therapy, but if she doesn’t get continued therapy, I’m afraid all her work will be lost. Do I have any way to persuade the nursing facility to keep providing rehabilitation therapy? A: In 2013, the U.S. District Court in Vermont found that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) was using standards for determining whether Medicare would pay for therapy that were too strict (Jimmo v. Sebelius). The Court found that Medicare does cover skilled nursing and skilled therapy services needed to maintain a patient’s function or to prevent or slow decline. Improvement or progress is not necessary as long as skilled care is required. The standards apply to home health care, nursing home care, and outpatient therapies, and CMS was ordered to implement a “corrective action plan” to inform Medicare providers how to implement this clarification of the federal law. Today, now four years later, the Court found that CMS had not done enough to convince providers that Medicare really is available for people who need critical maintenance care – people living with MS, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, paralysis, and other long-term, chronic conditions. Lawyers for the Jimmo plaintiff class requested further action from the court when it became clear that too many people were still being wrongfully denied Medicare coverage – in part because many medical providers had not been adequately educated, and in part because many providers were still skeptical that Medicare would alter its coverage practices.

is expected to improve. Indeed, the new education and Jimmo webpage are important because many health care providers still operate under this misconception, leading beneficiaries to be wrongly denied needed services such as physical and occupational therapy. The new webpage offers CMS’s official imprimatur on the correct legal standard that improvement is not required when there is a need for skilled care. One of the “Frequently Asked Questions” posted on the Jimmo CMS.gov page clarifies that what seems to be happening to your mother should not happen: “The Medicare program does not require a patient to decline before covering medically necessary skilled nursing or skilled therapy.” The Jimmo webpage contains fifteen such “Frequently Asked Questions,” which dispel other mistaken beliefs. One answer, confirms: “Skilled services would be covered where such skilled services are necessary to maintain the patient’s current condition or prevent or slow further deterioration so long as the beneficiary requires skilled care to the services to be safely and effectively provided.” Whether a patient needs skilled care – physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech pathology, or wound care – is a therapeutic question, but based upon your question, it’s a place to start. Good luck! Molly M. Wood is a partner at Stevens & Brand, LLP, in Lawrence, Kansas, where she confines her practice to Elder Law, especially seniors with long-term care issues. If you have a legal question or concern, call the Kansas Elder Law Hotline, a toll-free legal advice and referral service for Kansas Seniors, 888-353-5337. An Elder Law Project attorney is available in Lawrence at no charge by appointment at Senior Resource Center for Douglas County, 785-842-0543.

Therefore, this year the federal judge in Jimmo v. Sebelius ordered CMS to publish a new webpage containing important information about the Jimmo case on its CMS.gov website, https://www.cms.gov/Center/Special-Topic/Jimmo-Center. html. The new webpage contains an “Important Message About the Jimmo Settlement,” in which court-approved language emphasizes that the settlement “may reflect a change in practice” for providers and Medicare decisionmakers who erroneously believed that the Medicare program covers nursing and therapy services only when a beneficiary

October 2017

Better Senior Living

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Adventures in Painting

Explore the basics of painting with local artist and instructor Joan Martin.

Adventures in Painting

Wednesdays, October 11 - November 15 9:00 - 11:00 AM Pioneer Ridge Art Studio 1000 Wakarusa, Lawrence

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Better Senior Living

October 2017

October 2017

Better Senior Living

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