april 2010

Inside...n Healthn Fitnessn Nutritionn Finances, and much more!

Healthy

Senior housing River Region

in the

hobbies

AquariumsAquariumsclose to homeclose to home

PrimeMontgoMery

Celebrating Midlife and Beyond

World-classWorld-class

Prime Senior housing

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Miramar Beach VillasMiramar Beach VillasFamily-oriented rental villas in a gated beach community

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One mile from Silver Sands Factory Outlet Mall — Destin, Florida

25 prime diversionsReviews of An Education and Sherlock Holmes, two new DVD releases. By Mark Glass.

Ap

ril

08 Around montgomeryCan you find this Montgomery landmark? Try your luck, then send us your photos to publish in an upcoming issue of PRIME!

32 WhAt’s going on?Plan your fun and activities with PRIME’s April community events calendar.

Entertainment

28 senior housing optionsRetirement home, assisted living, nursing home — find the housing option that fits senior needs.By Jennifer Kornegay

www.primemontgomery.com | April 2010 3

33 engAging heArt And BrAin Volunteer to help with a worthwhile community activity. Keep your brain cells moving with Sudoku and crossword puzzles.

Features09 heAlthy hoBBies

Enrich body, mind and spirit by picking the right hobby. By Tim Lockette

17 World-clAss AquAriumsAquariums in Atlanta and Chattanooga attract all ages with interactive features and dazzling aquatic displays. By Amanda Gross

17 08

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Aprilcontent

13 moving FreePrehab to avoid rehab. Guard against preventable orthopedic problems by knowing what to do. By Mirabai Holland

27 A question oF heAlthKaren Collins answers your health questions; this month, overcoming common weight-loss obstacles.

15 mArci’s medicAre AnsWers

A monthly Q&A provides infor-mation about Medicare-covered services.

22 medicAre And youMake the most of Medicare’s cov-ered screenings and shots. By Bob Moos

Health/Nutrition

Medical

Find our cover stories

09Healthy Hobbies

17Worldclass Aquariums

28Senior Housing Options

16 dr. mArionFour things you can do to get your parent the best hospital care pos-sible. By Dr. Marion Somers, Ph.D.

23 A grAcious plentyIn the first of her regular monthly columns, Montgomery native and cookbook author Patsy Smith shares one of her most requested recipes.

Lifestyles

4 April 2010 | www.primemontgomery.com

Financial20 prActicAl money mAtters

Earn higher interest with a checking account. By Jason Alderman

06 neWs you cAn useNews shorts on bone health, deep-vein thrombosis and healthy fast food salads to keep you living well.

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My father was a very active man all his life. A lifelong restaurateur filled with zest and vitality, he estab-lished and ran the Riviera Restau-rant in Montgomery for 25 years, but was never content to let his work alone define his life.

From beekeeping, to exercise, to photography, to fishing, to music, Nick Polizos filled his spare time and thoughts with activities that fed his soul. Pleasant diversions in his early life, these pursuits — along with close family relationships — became an important regenerative source for him in later years.

Watching my father was proof enough for all of us that keeping a young spirit and staying healthy have a lot to do with engaging in activities that captivate both your body and your mind. It’s in this vein that we focus on healthy hobbies in our first edition.

Hobby choices are as numerous and varied as the people who practice them. And while we profile an acknowledged short list of activities, all combine varying levels of physical and mental engagement to help keep us holistically primed for life.

In addition to healthy hobbies, this edition is bursting with information and news you can use, from financial tips and to exercise, to travel and a directory of local retirement, assisted living, nursing home, and memory care facilities. The pages of PRIME are filled with stimulating ideas, insight and opinions that add sparkle and zest to our days, whether at midlife or beyond. And what would a southern magazine be without food?

Make sure to read Patsy Porter Smith’s monthly column, “A Gracious Plenty.” A Montgomery girl, Patsy unintentionally became a multi-volume cookbook author after collecting family recipes to hand down to her daughter. Her insights on cooking and her recipes are sure to be a favorite with old friends and new readers alike.

A special thanks to family and friends who have encouraged PRIME’s de-velopment, including fellow publishers Tina and Gary Calligas in Louisiana. They’ve cheered us on every step of the way.

I hope you enjoy our new Montgomery publication and make a point of picking it up each month at one of the 300+ locations in the River Region. We thank these businesses that have graciously agreed to ‘host’ PRIME Montgomery.

Join us in celebrating, experiencing and exploring the PRIME of our life!

Sandra PolizosEditor

editor’s note

primemontgomery


April 2010Volume I, Issue 1

PUBLISHERBob Corley

[email protected]

EDITORSandra Polizos

[email protected]

ART DIRECTORCallie Corley

[email protected]

WRITERSJennifer Kornegay

Tim LocketteAndrea GrossJake Roberts

CONTRIBUTORSJason Alderman, Karen Collins,

Mark Glass, Mirabai Holland, Bob Moos, Marion Somers, Patsy Smith

PHOTOGRAPHERSBob Corley, Margaret Ann McGregor

PRIME Montgomery7956 Vaughn Road, #144Montgomery, AL 36116

334-202-0114www.primemontgomery.com

ISSN 2152-9035

PRIME Montgomery is a publication of The Polizos/Corley Group, LLC. Original content is copyright 2010 by The Polizos/Corley Group, LLC., all rights reserved, with replication of any portion prohibited without written permission. Opinions expressed are those of contributing writer(s) and not necessarily those of The Polizos/Corley Group, LLC.

PRIME Montgomery is published monthly except for the combined issue of December/January. Information in articles, departments, columns, and other content areas, as well as advertisements, does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by PRIME Mont-gomery magazine. Items relating to health, finances, and legal issues are not offered as substitutes for the advice and consultation of health, financial, and legal profes-sionals. Consult properly degreed and licensed profes-sionals when dealing with financial, medical, emotional, or legal matters.

We accept no liability for errors or omissions, and are not responsible for advertiser claims.

www.primemontgomery.com | April 2010 5If you’re 50+ and on Facebook,

become a fan of PRIME Montgomery!

407 Coliseum Blvd.Montgomery, AL 36109

[email protected]

Natural Healing by

Vitamins PlusBody Scans, Acupuncture, Massage

neWs you cAn use

Are You At Risk for Deep Vein Thrombosis?Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms in a large vein. Part of a clot may break off and travel through the bloodstream to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism and possibly death. Here are steps that can help pro-tect you.1. When sitting for long periods, such as traveling for more than four hours:n Walk around every 2 to 3 hours.n Exercise your legs while sitting by: - Raising and lowering your heels, keeping your toes on the floor. - Raising and lowering your toes, keeping your heels on the floor. -Tightening and releasing your leg muscles.n Drink plenty of water and avoid al-cohol and caffeine.2. Move around as soon as possible after being confined to bed following surgery, illness, etc.3. Talk to your doctor about graduated compression stockings (support hose) and/or medication (anticoagulants) to

prevent or treat DVT.4. Exercise regularly, maintain a healthy weight, and don't smoke.— Centers for Disease Control

Five Misconceptions About Bone Health

n It's A Women's Problem: Women AND men lose bone density as they age. A man 50+ is more likely to break a bone due to osteoporosis than get prostate cancer (National Os-teoporosis Foundation). Some researchers predict a 56 percent increase in osteoporotic frac-

tures in men.n You'll Know It If You Have It: You can't feel your bones weakening. You may not know you have osteoporosis until a bone breaks from a minor fall. Your doctor can determine if a bone density test is appropriate.n Bone Medications Have No Side Ef-fects: Don’t let osteoporosis drug ads about older women exercising with their grandkids mislead you. Some of these medications have been associ-ated with potentially dangerous side effects like severe bone degeneration, muscle or joint pain, heart problems, cancer and kidney failure.

n Exercise Can Hurt: Don’t be afraid to exercise as you age. Weight-bearing exercises can help build bones even in cases of advanced osteoporosis. These include lifting weights, climbing stairs, aerobics, dancing, jogging and tennis. Your doctor can advise you on what’s best for you. n Family History Doesn't Matter: Ge-netics and heredity greatly influence the risk of osteoporosis. If either of your parents had osteoporosis or a history of broken bones, you're at risk. If one had a spine that curved forward, or noticeable height loss, osteoporosis might have been the cause. — Statepoint

Author appearances and readings,book signings, Gees Bend quilt show,

children’s activity area, exhibitors

Old Alabama TownHistoric Downtown MontgomerySat., Apr. 17, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Free Admission

Visit www.alabamabookfestival.org or call 1-888-240-1850

5th Annual Alabama Book Festival

Have PRIME Montgomery delivered directly to your home or office

Subscribe to the River Region’s only monthly magazine for those celebrating midlife and beyond!

$15.00, payable by check or money order.Send your payment and this form to:

PRIME Montgomery7956 Vaughn Road #144, Montgomery, AL 36116

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Sabotaging SaladsJust How Many Calories Lurk Inside

Your Favorite Fast Food Salads?

the individual’s need, so a salad with 400 to 500 calories could be appropriate if that’s your entire meal. Choosing a salad with lots of chunks of fried chicken, for example, can turn an otherwise healthy option into a high-calorie megameal.All Salads: Always dress with less. Go easy on salad dressing. A little fat is good — a small amount of oil in the dressing enhances absorption of some nutrients and plant compounds such as beta-carotene, and may increase your sense of fullness — but add too much and calories skyrocket. A good rule of thumb: Dress your salad with two tablespoons of low-fat salad dressing. (Oil and vinegar’s a great choice, as prepared dressings often come packed with sodium.)

A review of several national chains found many salads can sabotage weight-loss efforts by packing in calo-ries and sodium well above the rec-ommended amount for one meal.

“Salads can provide plenty of cancer-fighting vegetables that can fill you up without packing a huge caloric wallop,” American Institute for Cancer Research

Nutritionist Alice Bender says. “But all salads are not alike. We found fast food and restaurant salads that contained over half the calories people need in one day.”THREE TIPS TO KEEP YOUR SALADS

LEAN AND MEAN Side Salads: Keep it simple. Start your meal with two orders of a vegetable-only side salad with one or

two tablespoons of low-fat salad dress-ing. You’ll boost veggie consumption and you may eat less of the main course.Main-Course Salads: Keep the protein lean. Choose entrée sal-ads that include lean protein foods such as garbanzo beans, turkey, fish or hard-boiled egg. Single meals should be around 400-600 calories, depending on

Burger King Side Salad 40 45 TenderCrisp Chicken 410 1080 Garden SaladMcDonald’s Premium Southwest Garden 140 150 Salad (no chicken) (with Crispy Chicken) 430 920

Subway Veggie Delight 50 65 Sweet Onion Chicken Teriyaki 200 660 Taco Bell Chipotle Steak Taco Salad 210 960 Fresco

Chicken Steak Taco Salad 900 (w/salad dressing) 1700 (w/salad dressing)

Wendy’s Side Salad 35 25

Southwest Taco Salad (entree) 400 1140

Olive Garden Garden Fresh Salad 120 550

Grilled Chicken Caesar 850 (w/salad dressing) 1880 (w/salad dressing)

Restaurant Salad Calories Sodium (mg)

American Institute of Cancer Research

Where Is It?


Around montgomery

All the lions in Montgomery don’t reside at the zoo.

This fierce incarnation of the species Panthera Leo, with bared teeth and glaring eyes, was created in terra cotta early last century.

For 71 years this stately gentleman and three companions were on display high above the city of Montgomery. Now, they’re much closer to the ground.

How long will these dramatic figures last? Con-sidering that the life-size warrior statues uncovered in China in 1974 were made of terra cotta and buried in 210 BC, it’s a good bet these Montgom-ery lions will be around a long, long time.

Send us a photo of you in front of our mystery lion!We’ll select some to print in a future issue of

PRIME Montgomery. E-mail your photo to [email protected], or send via snail mail to

PRIME Magazine, 7956 Vaughn Rd. #144, Montgomery, AL 36116.

Lion Bitsn The male lion is the largest and laziest carnivore on the planet. n Lions spend 16 to 20 hours a day sleeping and resting.n Female lions do 80 to 90 percent of the hunting.n Lions once roamed across North and South Ameri-ca, Europe, and Asia.n The Swahili name for lion is Simba.n Only four cats can roar : the lion, tiger, leopard and jaguar.n Roaring is possible due to a special two-piece hyoid bone in the throat. Non-roaring cats have a one-piece hyoid bone. n A lion’s roar can be heard up to five miles away, and can raise a cloud of dust. n A lion was presented to President Teddy Roosevelt in 1904 by the Emperor of Abyssinia (now Ethiopia). The lion resided at the National Zoo in Washington, D.C. until its death in 1906. The lion now resides, in stuffed form, in the Natural History Museum at the Smithsonian Institution.

By Jake Roberts

Healthy Hobbies

Health is about what you do every day. Baby Boomers, of all people, know that. As the generation that virtually invented fitness crazes and the modern fad diet, Boomers have seen an amazing array of health trends come and go – from pyramid power to grapefruit-only fasts – and they’ve come to real-ize that the best way to stay healthy is to pick one thing you like, and do it consistently.

Late middle age presents us with a problem, though. As our bodies change, it becomes clear that some of our old fitness hobbies just aren’t as fun as they used to be. It might be time to find a hobby that can age gracefully with you.

A hobby you can do from now until you’re 100 – and one that’s fun enough to do every day.“There are three important things to look for when you’re selecting a healthy hobby,” says Andrew

Duxbury, a professor and clinician at the University of Alabama Birmingham. “Obviously, you want something that includes physical activity. But you should also find a hobby that is mentally challenging, and one that includes a social element.”

As it turns out, Montgomery offers plenty of opportunities for people who want to practice a well-rounded, healthy hobby.

FeAture

Enrich body, mind and spirit by picking the right hobby

By Tim Lockette

Strictly ballroom. Remember learn-ing the foxtrot in a high school gym? If you’re of a certain age, you spent hours of your childhood learning ballroom dances just as those dances were becoming cultur-ally irrelevant.

Well, ballroom is back, and it’s sexier than your gym teacher could ever have imag-ined.

Hollywood has been producing steamy films about ballroom for more than a de-cade, and the pastime retains an allure that even reality TV can’t kill.

“Ballroom dancing is one of the best forms of exercise,” says Ray Farris, of Dancin’ Ballroom, a studio on Narrow Lane Road. Farris can rattle off a long list of comparisons to other forms of exercise. He says an hour of ballroom is the equiva-lent of a brisk, six-mile hike. His own dance floor stories are more compelling.

“I just lost a student,” Farris said. “She was 102 years old when she passed away. But until very recently, you’d see her out on the dance floor, having a great time.”

While ballroom is hot right now, Dux-bury says other forms of formal dance of-fer many of the same benefits. For instance, Duxbury says, recent studies have shown that tap dancing helps people stay mentally sharp.

And Montgomery offers many options, from square dancing to belly dancing. (See resource listing at the end of this article).

Gardening. Gardening is almost a ste-reotypical pastime of retirees.

Yet, every generation seems to discover anew the pleasure of working in a little patch of soil. And with good reason – in the garden, we find the perfect mix of free-dom and responsibility.

“One of the chief human needs is the need to be needed,” Duxbury said. “If you do not care for your garden, your garden will die. That’s a powerful motivator.”

Deceptively powerful, in fact. The world won’t end if your gardenias

die, but somehow the lack of high-pressure goals gives the garden even more allure.

Couples enjoy an event at Dancin’ Ballroom Studio.

Tai chi. In its homeland, tai chi has all the mundane magic of a steaming cup of coffee. Walk the streets of Beijing in the morning and you’ll see tai chi practitioners everywhere, greeting the day with the slow, dance-like movements that make up this ancient art.

In the West, tai chi has a far more exotic reputation. But if you think tai chi is too trippy for you, think again.

There’s a growing body of evidence that suggests tai chi reduces stress and provides relief for chronic pain.

There are even studies that say it can improve coordination – and lessen your chance of injury due to a fall.

“I don’t know if anyone has proven the tai-chi-and-injury connection conclusively,” said Duxbury. “But it does make sense that if you improve your coordination, you’ll have fewer falls.”

Janet Hutto, an instructor at the Mont-gomery branch of the Taoist Tai Chi Society on Debby Drive, has observed a significant age shift in members over the last decade.

“Ten years ago,” said Hutto, “about thirty-five percent of our members were fifty years old or older. Now it’s more like sixty percent.”

A good walk, unspoiled. Golf may not be as mind-bending as tai chi, but ac-cording to Duxbury, walking the links can be good for the body and the mind.

“The best possible exercise is simply walking,” he said. “Obviously, golf requires walking – if you leave the cart behind. Or let one person in your group drive a cart full of clubs, while everyone else walks.”

Golf can fill all of Duxbury’s three major requirements of a great health hobby. In addition to exercise, the game can provide some mental challenge, and a reason to get together with groups of like-minded people.

And in Alabama, you won’t have far to look for opportunities to practice this hobby.

From municipal golf courses to a tour of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, you can pick and choose golfing opportunities scaled to your budget and your schedule.A busy Saturday afternoon at Lagoon Park.

Instructor Ann Carr leads a class at Montgomery’s Taoist Tai Chi Center.

Swimming. There’s a reason why “buoyant” is synonymous with “happy.” There’s nothing quite like the weightless sensation of floating in a deep pool. Maybe you haven’t been so kind to your knees and back: slip into the pool, and you’ll find that your joints are more than ready to forgive you.

Swimming is great cardiovascular exercise. UAB’s Duxbury specifi-cally recommends water aerobics, a

low-impact way to get a strenuous workout.

If you live in Montgomery, the YMCA is your best bet for any sort of water exercise. The heated pool at the Bell Road Y makes water sports a year-round possibility.

Whatever hobby you choose, it’s important to find things that fill your time with fun so you’ll be motivated to come back to them again and again.

Duxbury says he often asks his

patients what they do for fun. While his healthiest patients report being very active, many don’t see themselves as having formal hobbies.

“What I’ve found is that the people who are doing well are the people who do lots of reading, people who work in the garden, and the people who report that they go out with friends or family often,” Duxbury said. “The important thing is to stay active, doing things that keep you interested.”

Send us your Hobby/PastimeThere are hundreds of hobbies and pastimes that were not listed in the limited space we have. If your favorite one wasn’t

mentioned, send us a short description, including why you like the particular hobby or pastime, along with a photograph of you engaged in this pastime. We’ll select several to print in upcoming issues of PRIME Montgomery.

Dancinghttp://www.renez.com/index.htmlSeveral studios as well as dancing opportunities in Montgomery.

Tai Chihttp://alabama.usa.taoist.org/Classes held in Montgomery and surrounding areas.

Gardeninghttp://www.aces.edu/Click on the Home & Garden link of the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service site, managed by Auburn and Alabama A&M Universities.

Swimminghttp://www.ymcamontgomery.org/YMCA link to find a location near you.

RESOURCE LINKS

Golfhttp://www.worldgolf.com. Enter Alabama in the search box on the right, click on a town, and both public and private courses will appear.

Year-round swimming at the Bell Road Y.

Orthopedic problems are a major health issue worldwide, and a growing problem particularly among

Baby Boomers. Women and men are both at risk. Job-related condi-tions like standing

all day or performing repetitive mo-tions can lead to overuse injuries. And being out of shape and overweight are leading contributors to orthope-dic injuries and chronic orthopedic problems.

But active adults are not immune. Pushing too hard when you workout or play sports instead of staying in your comfort zone can do you more harm than good.

In fact, there are about 28 million reported orthopedic injuries each year in the USA alone. Accidents hap-pen and excellent rehab is available. But a lot of orthopedic problems are preventable.

Muscles and tendons are connected to the brain by a complex system of sensors called proprioceptors, capable of detecting the slightest difference in muscle length, or tension on a ten-don. The proprioceptors exist to help

your body avoid injury.

Those little strains and pains you begin to feel when you push too hard are telling you “back off.” You need more conditioning before you can perform at this level. Pushing through the pain is flirt-ing with serious injury.

The proprioceptors also tell the brain where a limb is in space at any given time.

A well-trained pro-prioceptive sense helps a tennis player get to a ball and return it with-out having to think through each step. The body knows the way.

Prehab is one of the best ways to avoid rehab.

Developing your proprioceptive sense — awareness of where your body is in space — is a good start. (There are exercise programs that focus on proprioception, like my own Moving Free® technique, Tai Chi and certain yoga exercises.)

This sense helps you avoid awkward movements that can cause injury and allows you to perform daily tasks with ease and grace. And it improves your sense of balance, to help prevent falls.

Here’s an example — close your eyes. Hold out your arm in front of you. Your brain knows your arm is in front of you without you having to

see it. Keep your eyes closed. Now circle your index finger. Your brain knows where your finger is through the full range of mo-

tion without looking. That’s your proprio-

ceptive sense at work. Strengthening areas at risk for orthopedic injury

is another component of Prehab.

This kind of Prehab comes in two forms, General and Activity Specific.

General Prehab for daily living (as part of a personal wellness program)looks at the body as a whole, and develops it as a whole to maximize quality of life.

This often includes strength training, cardio conditioning and core train-ing, as well as some proprioceptive exercises.

Activity Specific Prehab is designed to get you ready for the rigors of a particular sport or physical endeavor. Good Activity Specific exercises pay special attention to the body parts most involved in that activity without ignoring the concept of training the body as a whole.

Send your Moving Free with Mirabai questions to [email protected].

Mirabai Holland, M.F.A., a leading authority in the Health & Fitness industry, is a public health activist specializing in preventive and rehabilitative exercise Her Moving Free® approach to exercise is designed to provide a movement experience so pleasant it doesn't feel like work. www.easyexercisevideos.com © 2010

moving Free® With mirABAi

Orthopedic Issues: Prehab to Avoid Rehab

Mirabai Holland


AT THE ALABAMA SHAKESPEARE FEST IVAL

800.841.4273 | WWW.ASF.NET | MONTGOMERY, AL 36117TRAVEL PACKAGES AND GROUP RATES ARE AVA I LABLE .

Kelley Curran as OpheliaNathan Hosner as Hamlet

Great for BBC fans!Lettice & Lovageby Peter ShafferApril 9 – May 23, 2010

Hamlet by William ShakespeareApril 16 – May 22, 2010

All’s Well That Ends Well by William ShakespeareApril 23 – May 22, 2010

Write to these addresses to remove your name from 3rd class mailing/telemarketing lists. Send all versions of your name (Joe Jones, J. Jones), your address (12 Maple St. Apt A, 12-A Maple St.), plus your phone number. It can take three

months to take effect.

Mail Preference ServiceDirect Marketing AssociationP.O. Box 3079Grand Central Station, NY 10163ATTN: Preference Service Manager

Telephone Preference ServiceDirect Marketing AssociationP.O. Box 3079

Grand Central Station, NY 10163ATTN: Preference Service Manager

Register with the Alabama Do Not Call registry (Alabama PSC) 1-877-727-8200, or www.psc.state.al.us.

Reduce Junk Mail and Telemarketing Calls

Drawings for free signed cookbooks by PRIME Montgomery columnist

and Montgomery native Patsy Smith

Visit the PRIME Montgomery

booth at the Alabama Book Festival

April 17 at Old Alabama Town

Meet the Editor and Publisher of

PRIME MontgomeryInside...

n Health

n Fitness

n Nutrition

n Finances, and

much more!

Healthy Senior housing

River Region

in the hobbies

Aquariums

Aquariums

close to homeclose to home

PrimeMontgoMery


World-class

World-class

April 2010 FREEPrime Senior housing

River Region

in the

Q: Dear Marci,I just had cataract surgery. Will Medicare cover it? — JackA: Dear Jack,

Yes. Although Medicare will not generally pay for routine eye care, it will pay for some eye care services if you have a chronic eye condition, such as cataracts.

Medicare will cover: n Surgical procedures to help repair the function of

the eye due to cataracts. For example, Medicare will cover surgery to remove the cataract and replace your eye’s lens with a synthetic intraocular lens. n Eyeglasses or contacts, but only if you have had cata-

ract surgery, during which an intraocular lens was placed into your eye. Medicare will cover the dark glasses that you must wear immediately after surgery to protect your eyes, and a standard pair of untinted prescription eyeglasses or contacts if you need them after surgery. If it is medically necessary, Medicare may pay for customized eyeglasses or contact lenses. n An eye exam to diagnose potential vision problems.

If you are having vision problems that indicate a serious eye condition, Medicare will pay for an exam to see what is wrong, even if it turns out there is nothing wrong with your sight.

Q: Dear Marci,When will Medicare pay for hospice care? — Wanda A: Dear Wanda,

Medicare will help pay for your hospice care if: You have Part A; n The hospice medical director (and your doctor, if you

have one) certify that you have a terminal illness (your life expectancy is six months or less); n You sign a statement electing to have Medicare pay

for palliative care, such as pain management, rather than care to try to cure your condition; n Your terminal condition is documented in your

medical record; n You receive care from a Medicare-certified hospice

agency. You do not need to be homebound to qualify for the

Medicare hospice benefit. The benefit is a comprehensive set of services delivered by a team of providers. Many

hospice services are provided in the home, but inpatient care is covered under specific circumstances.

Q: Dear Marci,I have Extra Help, and I was told I can change drug plans at any time. Is that true? — OliverA: Dear Oliver, Yes. If you receive Extra Help, the federal program that helps pay for the Medicare drug benefit, you get a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) that allows you to join, disenroll from or switch Medicare drug plans once per month. The SEP begins the month that you become eligible for Extra Help, Medicaid or a Medicare Savings Program and contin-ues as long as you have Extra Help. To switch plans, you should enroll in your new plan without disenrolling from your old plan. It is best to enroll into your new plan by calling 800-MEDICARE, rather than the new plan. You will be automatically disenrolled from your previous Medicare private drug plan when your new coverage starts.

*Recent passage of Health Care legislation will affect some aspects of Medicare. Changes will be addressed in future issues of PRIME Mont-gomery.

Marci’s Medicare Answers is a service of the Medicare Rights Center (www.medicarerights.org), the nation’s largest independent source of information and assistance for people with Medicare. To speak with a counselor, call (800) 333-4114. To subscribe to “Dear Marci,” the Medi-care Rights Center’s free educational e-newsletter, e-mail [email protected]. Log on to Medicare Interactive Counselor at www.medicareinteractive.org.

Marci’s Medicare* AnswersCataract surgery, hospice care and changing drug plans with Extra Help

medicAl


I’m terrified of getting “the call” that my 75-year-old dad is in the hospital. How can I make sure I’m taking the right steps when I get there? — Laura, 48

No one is ever fully prepared for this situation. Yet the decisions you make in a moment of crisis can have a significant impact on the level of care your parent receives, both in the hospital and after discharge.

The key is to educate yourself in advance - before you even get the call. This is one of the main reasons why I recently launched an app for the iPhone called Elder 911 (E911), which is all about offering quick tips to help navigate through the complexi-ties of a crisis. Here’s what I advise to help those who find themselves in the hospital with an older parent or loved one:

n Choose your hospital...if you can. If you have the time to decide where your parent will be receiving care, get them to a hospital that already has his or her patient records, or can access them relatively quickly.

n Triple check admissions information. Make sure every detail is accurate, and that you have all necessary legal documents in hand or easily accessible — such as living wills, Do Not Resuscitate orders (DNRs),

Health Care Durable Power of Attorney, and Medicare/Medicaid cards. These are things you can — and should —prepare even before a crisis hits.

n Ensure quality of care. It’s up to you to advocate for your parent, so be proac-tive and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Keep notes of doctor and nurse interac-tion, and ask the charge nurse for an over-view of all activity. Find the social worker assigned to the floor to address everything from diet to laundry. Find out about any potential surgery situations and be present in the treatment rooms whenever possible.

n Plan for discharge. When leaving the hospital for home or a facility, your loved one may experience “transfer trauma,” and feel scared or disoriented. Make sure you meet and talk to the hospital’s discharge planner, who can help you plan in advance to ease the transition. Ask questions like: who will arrange for transportation? What time of day will your parent be discharged? Will any prescriptions need to be filled? Will any follow-up or home care be re-quired?

In an emergency situation, knowledge is power. Arm your-self with as much information as you can in advance, so you’re not without answers at critical times. Good luck!

Over the last 40 years, Dr. Marion (Marion Somers, Ph.D.) has worked with thousands of seniors and their caregivers as a geriatric care man-ager and elder care expert. Her book “Elder Care Made Easier” provides additional information for caregivers, along with her iPhone apps (www.elder911.net), web site, columns, public service announcements and more. For more infor-mation, visit www.DrMarion.com.

liFestyles

What to do if you get “the call” that your parent is hospitalized.

Dr. Marion


World-classAquariums

Story by Andrea GrossPhotos courtesy of the Georgia Aquarium; Tennessee Aquarium photos by Todd Stailey

There’s nothing I love more than watching fish swim lazily, effort-lessly, gracefully among gently swaying sea grass. But snorkeling is not my thing. Instead, I frequent aquariums, where I can immerse myself in marine life without submerging myself in water.

Over my years as an aquarium aficionado, I’ve visited the most out-standing aquaria in the United States, including the Tennessee Aquar-ium in Chattanooga, home of the largest freshwater exhibit, and the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, the biggest all-inclusive aquatic museum.

the tennessee AquArium in chAttAnoogAThe Tennessee Aquarium recreates the environments favored by the

40-plus percent of fish that live in rivers and lakes, and it does so in a most innovative way — by following a drop of rainwater as it jour-neys from mountaintop streams down to the sea.

Visitors first stop at an exhibit that replicates an Appalachian for-est, replete with rhododendrons and azaleas. Trout and otters swim in the stream; a copperhead snake lies on the shore and birds sing in


the trees. Various galleries show the stream as it becomes a river, which finally empties into the magical environment of the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary in the Gulf of Mexico.

Other exhibits show marine animals from further away, such as the spider crabs of Japan and the delightful sea dragons of Australia, which float in a mystical watery world aptly titled “Beyond Imagination.”

Until May 2011 the aquarium, in collabora-tion with the nearby Hunter Museum, is host-ing a special exhibit, “Jellies: Living Art.” Jellyfish and art by world-renowned glass artists are juxtaposed to create a display that pulsates with color and light.

Tennessee Aquarium- Open Daily, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m., except Thanksgiving and Christmas- General admission: $24.95 adults, $14.95 children (3-12)- Discounts for active and retired military with I.D. and groups of ten or more- Parking: $3 - $8 depending on the time of year - A free shuttle runs daily from downtown Chattanooga- Allow at least two hours to visit the aquarium- Galleries are handicap accessible- Limited supply of wheelchairs available free of charge- Tickets good all day- Food available

Above: A yellow & blue poison dart frog rests on a leaf at the Tennessee Aquarium. Right: A Maraconi penguin enjoys the view from atop Penguin’s Rock.

A Longear Sunfish is only one of the fish you’ll see.

the georgiA AquAriumWhile I’m charmed by delicate and

beautiful in Chattanooga, I’m over-whelmed by “big” in Atlanta. This aquarium houses thousands of sea creatures representing more than 500 species. There are white beluga whales from the arctic, manta rays from the

Georgia Aquarium- 365 days a year: Sunday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. (Extended hours for April: April 1-7, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; April 8, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; April 9-10, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. )- General admission: $26.00 adults, $21.50 age 65 and above, $19.50 chil-dren (3-12) - Discount for active military with I.D. and groups of 25 or more

The Tunnel at the Georgia Aquarium


tropics and loggerhead sea turtles from the nearby Georgia coast. There are even some cute-as-can-be African penguins.

The most exciting attraction is the Ocean Voyager Exhibit, which houses the largest fish species in the world, the whale shark. These behemoths, which often weigh more than 30,000

pounds and are more than 40’ long, are housed in a massive tank that holds more than six million gallons of water.

The actual viewing window is 63’ long, as high as a two-story building, and a reassuring two feet thick. All in all, this is about as impressive as it gets.

- Parking $10 ($9 if purchased in advance)- Allow two to four hours to visit the aquarium- Handicapped parking in the parking decks near the elevators- Oversized parking on the first floor- Golf carts are available to transport guests to and from the parking deck- Exhibits are handicap accessible

- Wheelchairs available free of charge (Aquarium staff offer guests in wheel-chairs and/or with visual impairments a personal experience touching animals in the touch pool of the Cold Water Quest gallery.)- Aquarium videos are closed captioned- Tickets good all day- Food available

People stash their money in safe havens such as sav-ings accounts, Treasury Bills and Certificates of Deposit for a variety of reasons. It could be fear of losing mon-ey in the stock market, the security of knowing their deposits are government-insured or, with bank accounts at least, being able to quickly withdraw funds when needs arise.

In return for that convenience and security, however, interest earned usu-ally doesn’t keep pace with inflation.

When the economy was cooking a few years ago, five percent interest rates and higher on long-term CDs were not uncommon. But when the recession hit and the inflation rate began dropping, so did interest rates. These days, traditional savings accounts commonly earn just a fraction of one percent interest, while many CDs and T-Bills aren’t much better.

So how can you earn more interest on insured savings these days? Would you believe a checking account?

Although checking accounts usually earn little or no interest, in the past few years a product called high-yield reward checking has gained in popular-ity.

These accounts often pay much higher interest rates than regular checking or savings accounts – or even

long-term CDs in the current market.

In addition to paying higher interest, financial institutions offering these accounts typi-cally will refund each month a certain amount in transaction fees charged by other banks for using their ATMs. For

smaller institutions, this helps make up for not having their own extensive ATM network.

However, high-yield checking ac-counts usually come with restrictions that may include:n A minimum number (usually 10-15) of monthly debit card purchasesn Direct deposit (like a paycheck) and/or automatic debit transactions (e.g., monthly gym membership dues)n Issuing electronic statements only

There may be a cap on account bal-ances eligible for the high yield (com-monly $25,000 or less); over that cap, the rest may earn a much lower rate. (There usually is no minimum account balance required, as there often is with regular savings accounts.)

Accounts may be limited to local customers only, although many are available nationally.

If you don’t meet all require-ments during a particular month, the interest rate paid for that month could drop substantially, but typi-cally bounces back once you again

meet all conditions. Keep in mind a few other factors

when considering a high-yield checking account:n Interest rates are variable, so watch for notification of changes.n Compare any fees side by side with those charged on your current ac-count.n Vigilantly track your balance to en-sure it covers all debit card transac-tions; otherwise, overdraft charges could erase any interest earnings.n Make sure the bank is a member of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corpo-ration so that up to $250,000 per de-positor, per institution will be insured. Search “Bank Find” at www.fdic.gov.

Similar coverage is provided to cred-it unions by the National Credit Union Administration. Search “Find a Credit Union” under the “Data and Services” tab at www.ncua.gov.

Numerous websites track banks and credit unions offering high-yield ac-counts including www.highyieldcheck-ingdeals.com, www.checkingfinder.com and www.bankingmyway.com.

You won’t get rich from the interest earned on these accounts, but in this economy every extra dollar helps.

Jason Alderman directs Visa’s financial edu-cation programs. To sign up for a free monthly personal finance e-Newsletter, go to www.practicalmoneyskills.com/newsletter.

prActicAl money mAtters

Earning Higher Interest — With a Checking Account

Jason Alderman

Eastbrook Flea Market & Antique Mall425 Coliseum Blvd., Montgomery, AL 36109

334-799-0709 l [email protected]

Kynard Korner’sReinvintage Boutique

Vintage apparel and accessories BradleyP L U M B I N G &

HEATING INC.

431 Hackel Dr.P.O. Box 210007

MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA 36121

271-0700

www.pr

imem

ontgomery.com

April 8, 1974Mobile native

Hank Aaron of the Atlanta Braves hits his 715th ca-reer home run to break Babe Ruth's

long-standing record. Aaron finished his career with 755 home

runs, the best in Major League Baseball at that time.April 14, 1955

In a ceremony at Huntsville High School, Wernher von Braun and 102

other German-born scientists, techni-cians, and family members based at Redstone Arsenal become American citizens.

Recruited to the United States at the end of World War II, the scientists conducted rocket research crucial to the development of the U.S. space program.April 18, 1831

The University of Alabama formally opens its doors.

Fifty-two students were accepted that first day, but by the end of the

session the student body had swelled to nearly one hundred. The faculty was made up of four men including the Reverend Alva Woods, who had been inaugurated president of the university on April 12, 1831.April 24 1922

Alabama’s first radio station, WSY, begins broadcasting. The station was started by Alabama Power Company to help keep in touch with line crews in isolated areas. In 1925 the station merged with Auburn’s WMAV to be-come WAPI.

Christian books, gifts, and other treasures

Loved Again

Eastbrook Flea Market & Antique Mall

425 Coliseum Blvd.Montgomery, AL

36109334-270-5890

(courtesy Alabama Department of Archives and History)April in Alabama History

DISCOVERYOUR

ANCESTORS at

Archives & History’s

ANCESTRY.COM

WORKSHOP

Wed. Apr. 289:00 a.m. - noon

Alabama Dept. of Archives and History624 Washington Ave.

Montgomery, AL 36130Admission: $20 ($15 for Friends of Archives)

Pre-register before Apr. 23

Learn research techniques and tips for using Ancestry.com

Registration form available at www.archives.state.al.us or call 334-353-4674.

How many times have you dismissed a new ache by sigh-ing, “Maybe it’ll go away?” Sometimes, the pain does dis-appear. But playing the wait-ing game isn’t the smartest way to look after your health.

Medicare covers a broad range of exams, lab tests and screenings to detect health problems early, when they’re most treatable or curable. It also pays for a number of immunizations to help beneficiaries avoid diseases or illnesses and stay healthy. Prevention is becom-ing a bigger part of Medicare.

Beneficiaries are entitled to a pre-ventive physical exam during the first 12 months they’re enrolled in the Part B medical insurance program. It’s known as a “Welcome to Medicare” exam.

Beneficiaries can make the most of their visit by coming prepared. That means bringing a complete list of their prescription and over-the-counter drugs and their medical records, in-cluding their immunizations.

They should also have their fam-ily health history, with any details that would suggest risks for certain condi-tions.

During the exam, the physician eval-uates the patient’s health, discusses any preventive services that may be needed, such as shots or screenings, and makes referrals for more care if required. The doctor also measures height, weight and blood pressure. The exam doesn’t include lab tests.

Beneficiaries on original Medicare pay 20 percent of the Medicare-

approved amount for their Welcome to Medicare visit, but the annual Part B deduct-ible is waived for this one-time exam.

Keeping up-to-date with screenings and immuniza-tions is important, so Medi-care encourages beneficiaries to visit mymedicare.gov and sign up. There, they can see a

description of their covered preventive services, the last date they had a par-ticular test and the next date they’re eligible for it again.

Here’s a rundown of some of Medi-care’s preventive services and how original Medicare and its beneficiaries divide the cost. Medicare Advantage plans may pay differently. n Cardiovascular screenings check

cholesterol and other blood fat levels. Medicare pays for the test once every five years. There’s no out-of-pocket ex-pense.n Blood sugar screenings check for

diabetes. Based on their health, benefi-ciaries may be eligible for up to two screenings per year. Medicare covers the full Medicare-approved amount for the test.n Glaucoma tests are available for

people at high risk for the eye disease. Medicare pays 80 percent of the ap-proved amount for an annual test. Ben-eficiaries are responsible for the other 20 percent, after meeting their deduct-ible.n Immunizations. Medicare cov-

ers flu, pneumococcal and Hepati-tis B shots. Beneficiaries pay nothing for the flu or pneumococcal shots.

People at risk for Hepatitis B pay 20 percent, after the deductible, for those immunizations.n Mammograms check for breast

cancer. Medicare covers a screening every 12 months for women 40 and older and one baseline screening for women 35 to 39. Beneficiaries pay 20 percent of the approved amount.n Prostate cancer screenings con-

sist of a yearly digital rectal exam and PSA test for men 50 and older. Benefi-ciaries are responsible for 20 percent for the rectal exam, after meeting their deductible. There are no out-of-pocket costs for the PSA test.

In addition to these tests and shots, Medicare covers eight counseling ses-sions each year for beneficiaries with a smoking-related disease or on medica-tions affected by tobacco use.

During the one-on-one sessions, a physician or other qualified practitio-ner helps the smoker quit.

*Recent passage of Health Care legislation

will affect some aspects of Medicare. Changes will be addressed in future issues of PRIME Montgomery.

Bob Moos is the Southwest regional public affairs officer for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Visit the Medicare Web site at medicare.gov or call Medicare’s 24-7 cus-tomer service line at 1-800-633-4227.

medicAre And you*

Making the Most of Covered Screenings and Shots

Bob Moos

Visit PRIME Montgomery online at www.primemontgomery.com


It’s Spring, and how exciting it is for me to be a part of this new life, this fresh start of this brand new maga-zine!

I look forward to visiting with you each month and sharing proven

recipes, tips and suggestions intended to spice up our meals and breathe new life into our hospitality. The journey that brought me here began 14 years ago when I wrote a cookbook for my daughter who had just left home for college.

I wanted to make sure that she felt comfortable in her own kitchen with the legacy of recipes she had known from our family and friends, so I put them together as a love gift for Christ-mas her freshman year.

Others heard about the book and wanted copies of their own, so soon af-terward the book found its way into the marketplace.

Over the years requests kept com-ing for a second book, so A Southern Daughter Entertains was released last year. The little books have taken on a life of their own, being featured in mag-azines, newspaper articles, television

appearances and spawning requests for speaking engagements.

I am truly grateful and humbled for being so blessed. How exciting that through all that the books came to the attention of the editors of PRIME!

The recipe I share with you this month is my love gift to you. It is the signature recipe from the first book… a rich, moist chocolate peanut butter cake that is so easy you can mix it up with a spoon.

You make this as a sheet cake (I often use two 8” or 9”square aluminum pans so that I can eat one with our family and take one to a friend), or as a layer cake. It freezes well.

When serving, try garnishing it with chocolate-covered coffee beans or col-ored malted bird’s eggs, chocolate curls or shavings, or fresh pansies for an eye-catching presentation. Invite a friend over, share a cup of coffee and welcome Spring!

Chocolate Loves Peanut ButterA grAcious plenty

Patsy Smith

Cake:2 cups sugar2 cups all purpose flour1 teaspoon baking soda2 sticks margarine4 tablespoons cocoa1 cup water1/2 cup buttermilk2 eggs, beaten1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Continued on next page)

“Biggest Rat in Town” Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake


Measure and stir together in a mixing bowl the sugar, flour and soda. Set this aside.

Cut up margarine and add it to a heavy saucepan. With the stove eye on low, melt the margarine and stir in the cocoa, water, buttermilk, beaten eggs and vanilla. Bring the mixture to a boil. Pour the heated mixture over the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl and mix well with a spoon.

Pour into a generously greased and floured (I use Baker’s Secret™ spray) 9”x 13” pan, two 8” or 9” round pans, or two 8” or 9” square aluminum foil pans. Bake at 350 for 25-30 minutes until cake springs back when touched gently. Take cake from oven and place on racks to cool.

FIllIng:1 1/2 cups Jif™ extra Crunchy Peanut Butter

The cookbook calls for additional peanut oil, but that can be expensive to use for this recipe if you don’t keep it on hand. It is just used for thinning the peanut butter a little so that it can be spread easily. I have found that placing the peanut butter in a glass measuring cup and mi-crowaving it for about 8 seconds on high loosens up the peanut butter enough so that it can be stirred and spread. (Be careful not to overheat it so that it turns into liquid.)

Spread peanut butter over cooled cake layer.

FroSTIng:1 stick margarine4 tablespoons cocoa6 tablespoons buttermilk1 box confectioner’s sugar1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pour confectioner’s sugar into a medium mixing bowl.

Combine margarine, cocoa and butter-milk in a small heavy saucepan. Stir the mixture in the saucepan until it comes to a boil. Pour heated mixture over confectioner’s sugar and stir (or use a hand mixer on the lowest setting) until creamy and smooth.

add vanilla and stir in well. Frost the cake.

TIP: When making a one-layer cake, spread the peanut butter over the whole cake then smooth the frosting over the top. When making a two-layer cake, spread the first layer with peanut but-ter then frosting before adding the second layer. Spread the second (top) layer with peanut but-ter. Frost the sides of the cake, and then frost the top.

Patsy Smith, a Montgomery native, lived here for 47 years before moving to Birmingham. She is the author of two cookbooks: A Cookbook For My Southern Daughter and A Southern Daughter Entertains. These books may be purchased at Capitol Book and News, Rosemont Gardens, Southern Homes and Gardens, Jo’s Hallmark, Richardson’s Pharmacy, and other fine book and gift stores, or through her website at southerndaughtercookbooks.com.


An EDuCATIOn (PG-13) It's England in the 1960s.

16-year-old Jenny (Carey Mulligan) is every parent's dream — smart, pretty, focused, talented and a genuinely nice person. Her stodgy middle-class parents are atwitter with her prospects for a scholar-ship to Oxford, and brilliant medi-cal career thereafter. She dutifully embraced their agenda with rela-tively little chafing until the day she met a charming young man (Peter Sarsgaard) who offered a 10-15 year jump-start on the life of travel, sophistication and glamor she yearned her education might some day enable. We can tell there's something hinky about the guy and his interest in her, but there might also be something quite genuine and positive in his appreciation and attentions. He's not just a creepy pedophile.

Sarsgaard's charm works at least as well on her parents, turning protective skepticism into hearty endorsements of their relationship, leaving all in suspense about whether they're heading to bliss or some type of bummer. The journey

is beauti-fully framed and paced by director Lone Scher-fig, as he treats Jenny and us to an Audrey Hepburn tour of the era's upscale and romantic settings, laced with bits of roguishness around the edges. She and her beau share these experiences with another couple (Dominic Cooper, Ro-

samund Pike) who seem relics of a time when the idle rich wafted through life at their own pace. Pike's dumb-blonde role provides some nice comic relief to the unease of wait-ing for the other shoe's likely descent. Alfred Molina's take on uptight, social-climbing bureaucrats is dead-on — irritating, yet well-meaning, in his skewed paternal priorities. But the film's greatest asset is Mulligan. Here's our first long big-screen look at a star on the rise. (3/30/10)

prime diversions

Recent DVD Releases

Mark Glass

SHERLOCK HOLMES (PG-13) Forget Basil Rathbone and all the brooding, low-impact

adventures of England's most famous sleuth that were filmed in the 1930s and ‘40s. In fact, throw out the book on about 200 movie and TV incarnations by a slew of actors since 1905. This one comes from the manic mind of Guy Ritchie. He and Sam Raimi may be the only overgrown teenagers who can keep pace with Quentin Tarantino on over-the-top mixes of action and humor. In Snatch and Lock, Stock and Two smoking Barrels, Ritchie outpaced both on the pace part.

His Sherlock is Robert Downey, Jr.; all the rotund, stuffy-to-bumbling Doctors Watson (or is it Doctor Watsons?) have been upgraded to Jude Law, as more of an equal to the iconic detective, rather than a sidekick or comic foil. The plot is a mix of murder and sci-fi, with elements of the supernatural, dotted with comic relief and romantic side-play, making it much closer to Jim and Artie's antics in The Wild, Wild West than any previous saga set on London's

Baker Street. Anglophiles and literature professors might be appalled,

but the rest of us will be entertained. Downey's at his best with the script's rapid-fire dialog and throwaway lines. He camps it up a bit while making Holmes as much a master of martial arts as of the mind, with his usual flair for tongue-in-cheek comedy. Law's Watson is almost as smart and physically adept as Holmes, trying to temper his friend's mood swings and impulsiveness with caution....mostly in vain. Some of the action seems to have sprung from the pages of comic books, rather than hallowed novels of yore. Mr. Conan Doyle, meet Stan Lee. Enjoy the synthesis of your bodies of work. The ending sets up a sequel. Ready when you are, Mr Ritchie. (3/30/10)

Mark Glass is an officer and director of the St. Louis Film Critics Association.

Read more DVD releases online at www.primemontgomery.com/movies.


Crowne Health Care and Rehab1837 Upper Wetumpka Road

Montgomery, AL 36107334-264-8416

Contact Tracy Pattillo or Ann Adams

www.crownemanagement.com

TransiTional CareA short-term stay providing patient and family a smooth transition from hospital to home.

Transitional Care is a Crowne Health Care specialty. It encompasses a variety of treatments including, but not limited to, physical, occupational, and speech therapy, wound care and pain management. Call for more information.

nutrition/heAlth

Tips to help you overcome weight loss obstaclesQ: I realize that my food portion sizes are my biggest obstacle to losing weight. But whenever I try to cut back, I seem to just eat more later. How can I tackle this?A: Congratulations for recognizing and being ready to tackle an important obstacle between you and better health! First, try to identify why your previous efforts to reduce portions have not worked out.

When you eat more after having reduced portions, are you hungry? This is a key question, so I urge you to keep a record for a week or so, whether on paper or your com-puter. Perhaps you have cut back too much. You might try reducing your usual portion by just a quarter, or even less.

Another key to success is that you need enough bulky, low-calorie foods to fill up on. Make sure you include some simple raw vegetables, salad, vegetable soup, stir-fried vegetables or fruit in your meals as you cut back on the high-calorie foods. On the other hand, perhaps you’ll find that the urge to eat more is not due to hunger.

Perhaps you need to drink more fluid. Perhaps you are facing some emotional fear or feeling of deprivation when

you cut back.This is especially common among people who have used very restrictive diets in the past, and those feel-ings need to be addressed.

Simply keeping a record of what is going on with this urge to eat more will probably not immediately change your eating, so don’t let this make you feel guilty. Under-standing the problem is the key to finding a solution.

If hunger is the issue and you have trouble pulling to-gether meals that work better for you, I urge you to find a registered dietitian (RD) in your area who can help you with fresh ideas.

If fear of deprivation or other emotional issues seem to be the problem for you, some dietitians are trained to deal with emotional “disordered” eating patterns, too; other-wise a mental health counselor with training in the field can help you work through and beyond these issues. Don’t give up.

Karen Collins, MS, RD, CDN, writes this column for The American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR), the cancer charity that fosters research on the relationship of nutrition, physical activity and weight management to cancer risk.

A Question of HealthBy Karen Collins, M.S., R.D., C.D.N.

It’s an odd feeling, watching your par-ents get old, especially when they reach a point that the need to move them to some sort of senior housing facil-ity starts to enter your mind. You won-der how you’ll make the decision, and when that choice is made, how you’ll pick the best arrangement for them.

Enter the multiple options—inde-pendent living, assisted living, nursing homes—and it all becomes even more disconcerting. But countless options don’t have to be overwhelming; they can be freeing. The first step? Take a few moments to educate yourself on the different selections.

Independent living facilities are, as their name implies, the places that give their residents the most independence while still offering some assistance. In most cases, residents of independent living facilities can live completely on their own, but they no longer have to deal with the maintenance that comes with a house. Independent liv-ing also provides the opportunity to socialize with people of similar age and interests. Many have a host of orga-nized activities and even trips.

Assisted living facilities, some-times also called supported care, residential care or adult living facilities,

offer help with daily living, like preparing meals, dressing, laundry, housekeeping and keeping up with medications. They often serve as a bridge between inde-pendent living and nursing homes. Resi-dents of assisted living facilities don’t need constant care, but they do need some looking after.

Nursing homes aid the elderly who have reached a stage in their lives where they require extensive assis-tance and medical care.

So which of the three would best suit you or your parent? John Mat-son, the Director of Communica-tions for the Alabama Nursing Home Association, offered this suggestion. “When choosing which type of facil-ity will work for you or your parent, it’s always good to talk to their doctor about what their medical needs are,” he said. “How much and what kind of medical care they will require is a big determining factor.”

Every individual facility, no matter which type, varies in size and scope of services offered, so thorough research of each one you’re considering is of paramount importance, as Matson ex-plained.

“The first thing you should do is ask the facility if they are licensed,” he

FeAture

By Jennifer Kornegay

Senior Living OptionsOutside the Home

Match your needs to River Region housing choices


More Information... To learn more about the differences between independent living, assisted living and nursing homes, and to find detailed lists of questions to ask facilities, check out the following websites. n www.alfa.org (Assisted Living Federation of America) n www.aarp.org (American Association of Retired Persons) n www.anha.org (Alabama Nursing Home Association) n www.alaaweb.org (Assisted Living Association of Alabama)

said. “In Alabama, all assisted living and nursing homes must be licensed by the Alabama Department of Public Health. Those that are licensed have met cer-tain stringent quality standards for care.”

Matson then advised taking the loca-tion of the facility into consideration. “Think about whether or not it will be easy and convenient for family mem-bers to get there when needed and just to visit,” he said.

And the next step — one that can-not be skipped according to Matson — is the site visit. “There is no substitute for touring the facility. Go to every fa-cility that you are considering, then af-ter the visits, you should be able to nar-row your list down. Once you’ve got a shorter list, you should visit the places again, and do a more intensive inspec-tion,” he said. “While you are on the tour, ask to see everything: the rooms, the business office, the kitchen, look at every part of building. You should also meet with the administrator and direc-tor of nursing while you’re there, and check out the rehab areas if it is a nurs-ing home.”

It’s also a good idea to pay attention to the way staff interacts with the resi-dents. Make a note of the atmosphere and the feel you get from the place. And don’t be afraid to ask questions about anything and everything. Keep the spe-cific needs and concerns of your par-ent in mind when you’re seeking infor-mation. What’s right for one person may not be a good fit for someone else.

This directory lists residential facilities in the River Region that offer Independent Living, Assisted Living, Nursing Home, Rehab, or Dementia/Alzheimer’s Care. Facilities offering more than one level of care are listed in each appropriate cat-egory with additional care options noted in parentheses.

The directory is as comprehensive as time and resources permitted. If you manage a facility in the River Region not listed here, e-mail [email protected] and include the word Directory in the subject line. We’ll make every effort to revise the on-line version of the directory to include your facility.

Prime Montgomery makes no claims regarding the quality of care offered by these facilities. Selecting and evaluating a facility requires research as well as on-site visitation to determine which one is best suited for you or your loved one. We hope this Resource Directory provides a starting point in your search.

Senior Living Options Outside the Home


resource directory

InDEPEnDEnT LIVInG

Crowne Health Care/Rehab (See ad page 27)1837 Upper Wetumpka RdMontgomery, AL 36107(334) 264-8416Independent Living (+Assisted Living, Rehab, Nursing Home)

AHEPA 23-I Apartments1720 E. Washington Ave. Montgomery, AL 36107(334) 263-3046 Independent Living (Income Limits)

AHEPA 23-II Apartments285 Sylvest Dr.Montgomery, AL 36117(334) 274-0076Independent Living (Income Limits)

AHEPA 23-III Apartments 1728 E. Washington Ave.Montgomery, AL 36107(334) 263-7407Independent Living (Income Limits)

Bell Oaks Retirement Community3160 Bell Oaks Cir.Montgomery, AL 36116(334) 281-4523Independent Living (+Assisted Living)

Canterbury Courts4000 Governors Dr.Montgomery, AL 36111(334) 281-8555Independent Living

Capitol Heights Place 135 S. Panama St. (cont’d on next colum)

Montgomery, AL 36107(334) 264-8378Independent Living (+Assisted Living)

Caravita Village4000 Fieldcrest Dr.Montgomery, AL 36111(334) 284-0370Independent Living (+Assisted Living)

City of St. Jude2048 W. Fairview Ave.Montgomery, AL 36108(334) 834-5590Independent Living (Income Limits)

Eastdale Estates5801 Eastdale Dr.Montgomery, AL 36117(334) 260-8911Independent Living

Eastview Retirement Center297 Sylvest Dr.Montgomery, AL 36117(334) 279-7673Independent Living (Income Limits)

Elizabeth H. Wright Apts. 5201 W. Alabama Christian Dr.Montgomery, AL 36111(334) 386-7490Independent Living (+Assisted Living)

Gardens of Wetumpka209 Country Club Dr.Wetumpka, AL 36092(334) 514-4839Independent Living (+Assisted Living)

John Knox Manor I 4401 Narrow Lane Rd. (cont’d on next colum)

Montgomery, AL 36116-2915(334) 288-6462Independent Living (+Assisted Living, Nursing Home, Dementia Care)

Oak Grove Inn 3801 Oak Grove Dr.Montgomery, AL 36116(334) 215-8881Independent Living (+Assisted Living)

Rosa Parks Place3050 Rosa Parks Ave.Montgomery, AL 36105(334) 263-1388Independent Living

Seton Haven 3721 Wares Ferry Rd.Montgomery, AL 36109(334) 272-4000Independent Living (+Assisted Living)

ASSISTED LIVInG

Wesley Gardens Retirement Community (See ad back cover)1555 Taylor Rd.Montgomery, AL 36117(334) 272-7917Assisted Living (+Dementia Care)

Crowne Health Care/Rehab (See ad page 27) 1837 Upper Wetumpka RdMontgomery, AL 36107(334) 264-8416Assisted Living (+Independent Living, Rehab, Nursing Home)


Elmcroft of Halcyon (see ad in this issue)1775 Halcyon Blvd.Montgomery, AL 36117(334) 396-1111Assisted Living (+Alzheimer’s Care)

Angels for the Elderly 40 Angels Ct.Montgomery, AL 36109(334) 270-8050Assisted Living (+Dementia Care)

Arrowhead Manor9081 Atlanta Hwy.Montgomery, AL 36117(334) 260-8777Assisted Living (+Nursing Home)

Audubon Manor3512 Audubon Rd.Montgomery, AL 36111(334) 288-4110Assisted Living (+Nursing Home, Alzheimer’s Care)

Autumn Place5930 Main St.Millbrook, AL 36054(334)-285-1996Assisted Living

Bell Oaks Retirement Community3160 Bell Oaks Cir.Montgomery, AL 36116(334) 281-4523Assisted Living (+Independent Living)

The Belmont7295 Copperfield Dr.Montgomery, AL 36117(334) 273-0110Assisted Living (+Nursing Home)

Camellia Lane I, II, III419, 421, 425 Pratt St.Prattville, AL 36067(334) 365-6707 (I and III)(334) 365-9392 (II)Assisted Living

Capitol Heights Place 135 S. Panama St.Montgomery, AL 36107(334) 264-8378Assisted Living (+Independent Living)

Caravita Village4000 Fieldcrest Dr.Montgomery, AL 36111(334) 284-0370Assisted Living (+Independent Living)

Cedars Assisted Living 3500 Lynchburg Dr.Montgomery, AL 36116(334) 221-3444Assisted Living (+Memory Impairment Care)

Country Cottage Assisted Living235 Sylvest Dr. Montgomery, AL 36117(334) 224-0388Assisted Living (+Memory Care)

Elizabeth H. Wright Apts. 5201 W. Alabama Christian Dr.Montgomery, AL 36111(334) 386-7490Assisted Living (+Independent Living)

Gardens of Wetumpka209 Country Club Dr.Wetumpka, AL 36092(334) 514-4839Assisted Living (+Independent Living)

Green Springs Assisted Living811 Green Springs Dr.Prattville, AL 36067-2136(334) 365-0678Assisted Living

John Knox Manor I 4401 Narrow Lane Rd.Montgomery, AL 36116-2915(334) 288-6462Assisted Living (+Independent Living, Nursing Home, Dementia Care)

Oak Grove Inn 3801 Oak Grove Dr.Montgomery, AL 36116(334) 215-8881Assisted Living (+Independent Living)

RIver Ridge Assisted Living208 Marshall St.Wetumpka, AL 36092(334) 514-6553Assisted Living (+Dementia Care, Adult Day Care)

Seton Haven 3721 Wares Ferry Rd.Montgomery, AL 36109(334) 272-4000Assisted Living (+Independent Living)

Waterford Place3920 Antoinette Dr.Montgomery, AL 36111(334) 288-2444Assisted Living (+Nursing Home)

Woodley Manor3312 Woodley Rd.Montgomery, AL 36116(334) 288-2780Assisted Living (+Nursing Home, Rehab)

nuRSInG HOMES

Crowne Health Care/Rehab (See ad page 27)1837 Upper Wetumpka RdMontgomery, AL 36107(334) 264-8416Nursing Home (+Independent Living, Assisted Living, Nursing Home, Rehab, Dementia/Alzheimer’s Care)

Arrowhead Manor9081 Atlanta Hwy.Montgomery, AL 36117(334) 260-8777Nursing Home (+Assisted Living)

Audubon Manor3512 Audubon Rd.Montgomery, AL 36111(334) 288-4110Nursing Home (+Assisted Living, Alzheimer’s Care)

The Belmont7295 Copperfield Dr.Montgomery, AL 36117(334) 273-0110Nursing Home (+Assisted Living)

Capitol Hill Health Care 520 S. Hull St.Montgomery, AL 36104(334) 834-2920Nursing Home (+Rehab, Dementia/Alzheimer’s Care)

Cedar Crest Rehab2Home4490 Virginia Loop Rd.Montgomery, AL 36116(334) 281-6826Short and Long Term Care (+Rehab)


Eastview Retirement Center297 Sylvest Dr.Montgomery, AL 36117(334) 279-7673Nursing Home (+Independent Living, As-sisted Living)

Golden Living Center 2020 N. Country Club DrMontgomery, AL 36106(334) 263-1643Nursing Home (+Assisted Living, Rehab, Dementia, Alzheimer’s Care)

Hillview Terrace nursing/Rehab 100 Perry Hill Rd.Montgomery, AL 36109(334) 396-5900Nursing Home (+Rehab)

John Knox Manor I 4401 Narrow Lane Rd.Montgomery, AL 36116-2915(334) 288-6462Nursing Home (+Independent Living, As-sisted Living, Dementia Care)

Merry Wood Lodge Care and Rehab Center280 Mt. Hebron Rd.Elmore, AL 36025(334) 567-8484Nursing Home (+Alzheimer’s Care)

Waterford Place3920 Antoinette Dr.Montgomery, AL 36111(334) 288-2444Nursing Home (+Assisted Living)

Woodley Manor3312 Woodley Rd.Montgomery, AL 36116(334) 288-2780Nursing Home (+Assisted Living, Rehab)

DEMEnTIA/ALzHEIMER’S CARE

Wesley Gardens Retirement Community (See ad back cover)1555 Taylor Rd.Montgomery, AL 36117(334) 272-7917Dementia Care (+Assisted Living)Resident Rehabilitation

Crowne Health Care/Rehab (See ad page 27)1837 Upper Wetumpka RdMontgomery, AL 36107(334) 264-8416Dementia/Alzheimer’s Care (+Independent Living, Assisted Living, Nursing Home, Rehab)

Elmcroft of Halcyon (See ad in this issue)1775 Halcyon Blvd.Montgomery, AL 36117(334) 396-1111Alzheimer’s Care (+Assisted Living)

Angels for the Elderly 40 Angels Ct.Montgomery, AL 36109(334) 270-8050Dementia Care (+Assisted Living)

Audubon Manor3512 Audubon Rd.Montgomery, AL 36111(334) 288-4110Alzheimer’s Care (+Assisted Living, Nursing Home)

Capitol Hill Health Care 520 S. Hull St.Montgomery, AL 36104(334) 834-2920Dementia/Alzheimer’s Care (+Nursing Home, Rehab)

Cedars Assisted Living 3500 Lynchburg Dr.Montgomery, AL 36116(334) 221-3444Memory Impairment Care (+Assisted Living)

Country Cottage Assisted Living235 Sylvest Dr. Montgomery, AL 36117(334) 224-0388Memory Care (+Assisted Living)

Golden Living Center 2020 N. Country Club DrMontgomery, AL 36106(334) 263-1643Dementia & Alzheimer’s Care (+Rehab, Nursing Home)

John Knox Manor I 4401 Narrow Lane Rd.Montgomery, AL 36116-2915(334) 288-6462Dementia Care (+Independent Living, As-sisted Living, Nursing Home)

Merry Wood Lodge Care and Rehab Center280 Mt. Hebron Rd.Elmore, AL 36025(334) 567-8484Alzheimer’s Care (+Nursing Home)

RIver Ridge Assisted Living208 Marshall St.Wetumpka, AL 36092 (334) 514-6553Dementia Care (+Assisted Living, Adult Day Care)

RESIDEnTIAL REHAB

Crowne Health Care/Rehab (See ad page 27)1837 Upper Wetumpka RdMontgomery, AL 36107(334) 264-8416Rehab (+Independent Living, Assisted Liv-ing, Nursing Home, Dementia/Alzheimer’s Care)

Capitol Hill Health Care 520 S. Hull St.Montgomery, AL 36104(334) 834-2920Rehab (+Nursing Home, Dementia/Al-zheimer’s Care)

Cedar Crest Rehab2Home4490 Virginia Loop Rd.Montgomery, AL 36116(334) 281-6826Rehab (+Short and Long Term Care)

Golden Living Center 2020 N. Country Club DrMontgomery, AL 36106(334) 263-1643Rehab (+Nursing Home, Dementia & Alzheimer’s Care)

Hillview Terrace nursing/Rehab 100 Perry Hill Rd.Montgomery, AL 36109(334) 396-5900Rehab (+Nursing Home)

South Haven Health/Rehab 1300 E. South Blvd.Montgomery, AL 36116(334) 288-0122Rehab (+Nursing Home)

Woodley Manor3312 Woodley Rd.Montgomery, AL 36116(334) 288-2780Rehab (+Assisted Living, Nursing Home)

ELMCROFT OF HALCYONAssisted Living & Memory Care • www.ElmcroftAL.com

1775 Halcyon Blvd., Montgomery • 334-396-1111

Call for your personal tour!

Each day at Elmcroft, we bring our hearts to work.

April 10 and 17 Great American Cleanup1000+ Volunteers needed to work either Saturday or any day in between. Visit www.clickvic.org for more informa-tion, or call 334-264-4436, ext. 1.

April 17 Alabama Book FestivalOld Alabama TownFree public event. Writers, poets and scholars read from and discuss their works. In-cludes author appearances and readings, book signings, Gees Bend quilt show, children’s activities, exhibitors. For information call 334-240-4500 (800-240-1850) or visit the website www.alabamabookfestival.org.

April 17 Walk of Life, Crampton Bowl through historic

downtown Montgomery Walkers and runners raise money

for the Joy to Life Foundation to provide free mammograms for

medically underserved women under 50. For information call 334-284-5433, or visit the website www.joytolife.org.

April 17-18French and Indian War EncampmentFort Toulouse-Fort Jackson Historic SiteTravel back in time to a French and Indian War era encamp-ment and reenactment. Price is $4-$5 for admission. For more information, call 334-567-3002.

April 18-24 national Volunteer WeekContact the Volunteer & Information Center for opportunities to help area organizations and individu-als. Call 334-264-4636 ext. 1, or visit the website at www.clickvic.org.

April 22 River Region Volunteer of the Year CelebrationTrinity Hall, Trinity Presbyterian Church, 1728 S. Hull St.

April 23-25Chunnennuggee Fair-Homecoming uSACelebrate Union Springs’ Homecoming USA and the 31st Annual Chunnenuggee Fair with a barbeque, arts and crafts show, live entertainment, children’s games, jumping castles and train rides. For more information, call 334-738-8687.

April 24-25 zoo WeekendShifts 8 a.m.– 2 p.m., 1 p.m.– 6 p.m. 100 volunteers needed per shift, per day.

April 25 Civil War Walking TourHistorians Mary Ann Neeley and Bob Bradley lead a walking tour from the Alabama River to the Capitol. For informa-tion call 240-4500 (800-240-1850) or visit the website at www.oldalabamatown.com.

April 29-May 1 Greek Food FestivalCelebrate the food and culture of Greece with native dishes, Greek pastries, imported gift items, live bouzouki music. Lunch and dinner each day. Church tours available. Greek Or-thodox Church of the Annunciation, Capitol Parkway and Mt. Meigs Rd. For more informa-tion, call 334-263-1366.

April Community Doings

Stay Active!For volunteer opportunities contact the Volunteer and Information Center, 334-264-4636 ext. 1, or visit the website, www.clickvic.org.

April 10, 17 Great American Cleanup — 1000+ Volunteers needed to work either Saturday or any day in between.

April 17 Alabama Book Festival — 175 volunteers needed. Escort authors, work in the children’s area, monitor events. 16 or older.

April 24-25 zoo Weekend — Shifts 8 a.m.– 2 p.m., 1 p.m.– 6 p.m. 100 volunteers per shift/day. Volunteer and Information Center — Update volunteer database, input information, call agencies.

Elm Croft Assisted Living — Assist with arts and crafts, bingo, exercise classes, day trips, light office work, visiting with residents.

Autauga Habitat for Humanity — Home construction, skilled and unskilled, landscape, serve lunches.

Central Alabama Laubach Literacy Council — Office duties.

Successful Living Center — Exercise, arts and crafts programs, for individuals 55-105.

Alabama Dept. of Archives and History — Organize library, serve as museum docents, gal-lery attendants, receptionists, reference aids, etc.

Alabama Scenic River Trail — Fundraising for new trails, campsites, river access throughout Alabama.

Meals on Wheels, Montgomery — Deliver meals to homebound.

Wetumpka Senior Citizens Program — Deliver meals to homebound.

Children’s Center of Montgomery — Monthly one-on-one interaction with medically fragile students.

Hospice of Montgomery — Patient/family care, bereavement support, special events, commu-nity education. Training available.

Dexter Avenue Parsonage Museum — Tour guide, welcome and greet visitors, organize groups, provide information.

(For the Sudoku solutions, see page 21.)

90,000 River Region residents are 50 or older

(26% of the population)

PRIME Montgomery, a new monthly magazine,

was created for them.Reach this valuable

audience by advertising in PRIME Montgomery.

PRIME Montgomery is available free at more than 300 tri-county locations.

For advertising rates call 334-202-0114 or email [email protected]

©2010 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.

For the answers, see page 21.

CROSSWORD CLuE

ACROSS

1 Sty matriarchs

5 Baton Rouge sch.

8 Composer Gustav

14 Radiate

15 Decide

16 Hebrew prophet

17 Earth-centered view of the universe

20 Country singer Travis

21 Casual talk

22 Writer Quindlen

23 Sault __ Marie

24 Female sandpiper

26 __-mo

28 Yo-yo trick

35 Love affair

36 First name in gymnastics

37 Old-time boxer Max

40 Bony outgrowths

43 Bugle call

44 Wading bird

46 Rib

48 Frodo’s story, with “The”

53 Average score

54 Old gray mare

55 Broadcast

57 Queens stadium

61 Egyptian Christian

63 Fracas

65 Prepare for an assault

68 Biblical mount

69 Rage

70 River in Normandy

71 Assails

72 WWII troop transport

73 Resting spot

DOWN

1 Religious denominations

2 Code of silence

3 More crafty

4 Let it stand

5 Destiny

6 Added zest

7 Cedar Breaks state

8 European thrush

9 Egyptian viper

10 Sunken fence

11 Property claim

12 Work for

13 Ostrich cousin

18 Guitar stroke

19 Whip stroke

25 Eve’s grandson

27 Acknowledge

29 Equipped with paddles

30 Veracity

31 Like Cheerios

32 Letters on vitamins

33 Sass

34 Prosecutors, for short

37 __ Paese cheese

38 Earlier

39 Do it wrong

41 Goes in again

42 Poet Teasdale

45 Go one better

47 Greek letter

49 Diamond surfaces

50 Dog or fox chaser

51 In abundance

52 Earth pigment

56 Return to defaults

57 Wound covering

58 Take on

59 Periods

60 Land unit

62 Singer Collins

64 Swelled heads

66 Cicero’s lang.

67 Drenched

©2010 TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.


Call NOW for a tour!

CALL 334-272-7917

WESLEY GARDENSA Methodist Homes Retirement Community

RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

AFFORDABLE ASSISTED LIVING & DEMENTIA CARE

1555 Taylor Road Montgomery, AL

WESLEY GARDENS

“Mom wants her freedom. I want peace of mind.At Wesley Gardens, we found both.”

At Wesley Gardens, security for your loved onedoes not mean giving up the freedom of living.Apartments in the dementia and memory carehousehold are furnished by you and are much largerthan the average studio apartment. Residents enjoyfamily-style, well-appointed dining on linen tablecloths and napkins. A secure courtyard offers open-air views of the outdoors and is used for manyactivities such as grilling, making lemonade, eatingice cream or just enjoying conversation. Worshipand special programs are enjoyed together by allresidents. Individualized activities are designed toenhance the quality of life for those experiencingmemory difficulties. Because we treat you likefamily, freedom and peace of mind go hand inhand. Let us show you how.

www.methodisthomes.org“...where life is celebrated... and the touchof God’s love is ever-present and ageless.”

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april 2010

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