ndn-ss-01-23-2015

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Senior Lifestyles

Winter 2015

Inside...

Talk with a pharmacistLearn the top five questions you should ask your pharmacist to help improve your health ..................... p. 7

Planning for retirementSuccessful ways to plan for retirement to remain in good financial standing during your golden years ........................ p. 2

Senior accessibilityModern technology has helped with struggles to help seniors maintain a functional lifestyle at home ......... p. 4

(641)792-7440200 S. 8th Ave. E., Newtonwww.newtonhealthcarecenter.com

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rehabilitation patients. We invite you to visit us and see how our new Diathermy and

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Call us to tour, today!

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Senior Lifestyles • Winter 2015 –

Successful ways to stretch retirement savingsMetro Creative

Many budding retirees plan to travel, relax and enjoy the company of their spouses when they officially stop working. But such plans only are possible if men and women take steps to secure their financial futures in retirement.

According to a recent survey by the personal finance education site MoneyTips.com, roughly one-third of Baby Boomers have no retire-ment plan. The reason some may have no plan is they have miscon-ceptions about how much money they will need in retirement. Suc-cessful retirees understand the steps to take and how to live on a budget.

• Have a plan. Many people sim-ply fail to plan for retirement. Even men and women who invest in an employer-sponsored retirement program, such as a 401(k), should not make that the only retirement planning they do. Speak with a fi-

nancial advisor who can help you develop a plan that ensures you don’t outlive your assets.

• Set reasonable goals. Retire-ment nest eggs do not need to be enormous. Many retirees have a net worth of less than $1 million, and many people live comfortably on less than $100,000 annually. When planning for retirement, don’t be dissuaded because you won’t be buying a vineyard or villa in Europe. Set reasonable goals for your retire-ment and make sure you meet those goals.

• Recognize there is no magic wealth-building plan. Saving comes down to formulating a plan specific to your goals, resources, abilities, and skills. Make saving a priority and take advantage of employer-sponsored retirement programs if they are offered.

• Don’t underestimate spending. You will need money in retirement, and it’s best that you don’t underes-

timate just how much you’re going to need. No one wants to be stuck at home during retirement, when peo-ple typically want to enjoy them-selves and the freedom that comes with retirement. Speak to a financial planner to develop a reasonable es-timate of your living expenses when you plan to retire.

• Pay down or avoid debt while you can. Retiring with debt is a big risk. Try to eliminate all of your debts before you retire and, once you have, focus your energy on growing your investments and/or saving money for retirement.

• Start early on retirement saving. It’s never too early to begin saving for retirement. Although few twen-ty-somethings are thinking about retirement, the earlier you begin to invest the more time you have to grow your money. Enroll in a retire-ment plan now so you have a larger nest egg when you reach retirement age.

File PhotoAs you think about retirement, you shouldn’t have to worry about if your finances will last. Learn a few helpful hints to secure your finacial future.


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Exercise tips your heart will love

Brandpoint

A regular exercise routine is an important component of heart health, yet less than one-third of Americans get the minimum 30 minutes of daily exercise five days a week, as recommended by the Ameri-can Heart Association. Na-

tionally, as many as 250,000 deaths annually are attribut-able to a lack of regular physi-cal activity.

While exercise is important for everyone, regular aerobic activity can be critical to en-suring healthier outcomes for cardiovascular patients. Even a little exercise goes a long way.

“Just 5-10 minutes of daily running, even at very slow speeds, can significantly lower the risk of mortality among cardiovascular patients,” said Ed Dannemiller, a special-ist pharmacist in the Express Scripts Cardiovascular Thera-peutic Resource Center. “Sim-ply getting the recommended

minimum amount of exercise can help reduce cardiovascu-lar events such as heart attack and stroke by 30-40 percent.”

Ed and his team counsel heart patients about the ben-efits of regular exercise in ad-dition to following the medi-cation regimen and other lifestyle changes.

Regular exercise has many other benefits for your heart as well, including: strength-ening the heart muscle, lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels, gain-ing better control of one’s blood sugar and maintaining bone strength. Exercise can also help heart patients lose weight and lead more active lives without chest pain.

If you are considering starting an exercise regime, keep these precautions in mind to minimize your risks and prevent an adverse reac-tion.

• If you recently had a heart surgery or procedure, experience chest pain or shortness of breath, recently had a heart attack, or have diabetes you should consult a physician before beginning any exercise regimen.

• If you are on beta block-ers, anti-arrhythmic drugs and calcium channel blockers, you may have a reduced heart rate and may experience low-er gains in heart rates when exercising. Medications such as the decongestant pseudo-ephedrine, anti-depressants, and thyroid medications can increase exercise heart rate. It is important to know the right aerobic heart rate tar-get to prevent overtraining or under-training your heart if you are on any of these medi-cations.

• If you are a cardiovascu-lar patient, high-intensity ex-ercises such as push-ups, sit-ups and heavy lifting may not be recommended for you, so

it’s a good idea to first speak with your physician.

• You may also need to avoid certain everyday ac-tivities that can overly affect the heart rate, such as raking, shoveling and mowing.

• Walking, swimming and light jogging are good begin-ning exercises if you have a cardiovascular condition.

But what if you’re already on a work-out schedule? Then keep these useful tips in mind:

• Maintain a steady pace and rest between workouts.

• Do not exercise outdoors in extremely humid, hot or cold temperatures. Extreme temps can make breathing difficult and cause chest pain. Try mall-walking instead.

• In cold weather, cover your nose and mouth when exercising outside.

• Stay hydrated by drink-ing water, even when you’re not feeling thirsty and espe-cially on hot days.

• Avoid overly cold/hot showers or sauna baths after exercise.

• Avoid exercising in hilly areas because it may cause your heart to work too hard. Closely monitor your heart rate with your target rate in mind.

• Stop exercising if you experience pain, dizziness, shortness of breath or exces-sive fatigue. Consult your physician.

• Stop the activity in the event of a rapid or irregular heartbeat. Check your pulse after 15 minutes of rest and consult your physician if the rate is still higher than 100-120 beats per minute.

A regular exercise routine, along with adherence to the medication regimen, can put you on the path toward bet-ter health. For more informa-tion, visit lab.express-scripts.com.

500 First Street NorthNewton, Iowa 50208

www.wesleylife.org/parkcentre

. Look to Park Centre for short term skilled nursing & rehabilitation

. Private Suites

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To Learn more call641-791-5000


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Alex Olp/Daily NewsManager Patti Hayes sits in a chair lift at Hammer Medical Supply in Newton. Chair lifts help senior citizens maintain their footing when standing up from a seated position.

Modern technology provides independence

to senior citizensBy Alex Olp

Newton Daily News

The struggles some senior citizens face within their homes are all too real, but modern technology has helped in regards to maintaining a functional lifestyle.

Area residents have been provided with medical attention from Hammer Medical Sup-ply since 1984. Store

manager Patti Hayes said Hammer offers a wide range of services for individuals who are in need of constant medical care.

“We do anything from respiratory to diabetic shoes to mastectomy fit-tings to helping people stay in their homes,” Hayes said. “We have a department that does anything from install-ing an elevator to a stair

lift, bathroom remodels, walk-in tubs, outside ramps and handrails. We are full service.”

Mobility can become a struggle with age, and things such as scooters and wheelchairs can help immensely with moving place to place. However, full accessibility within a resident’s home can be a daily obstacle for senior citizens where everyday things such as bathing


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212 First St. N., Newton

641-792-3111Hours:

M-F 8:30 am-6 pm Sat. 9 a.m.-2 pm

We’re not satisfied until your questions are answered.

4 No machines when you call4 Fast, friendly service4 Convenient Drive-Up4 We Accept All Medicare D Insurance Plans4 Zostavax Vaccinations for Shingles

Prevention

Locally owned and operated by Larry & Dianna Ambroson, RPh

Medications are powerful, and because of their potential to interact with each other, it is important that we learn to manage them properly. Don’t hesitate to call one of our professional pharmacists. They are here to help you with your questions and concerns.

4 Diabetic Shoes4 FREE Delivery

Serving Newton for

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and climbing stairs are diffi-cult without the right equip-ment.

To overcome those hurdles and provide complete mobil-ity to those who have daily medical needs, many home installments like, walk-in tubs and stair lifts, are neces-sary.

Hayes said Hammer’s most common home setup is the stair lift, which installs directly into the homeown-er’s staircase.

“That gives them the abil-ity to go from one floor to another,” Hayes said. “Some people just can’t walk down the stairs anymore, whether it’s old age or bad heart.”

A lot of equipment may be highly technical, but it can be critical in order for seniors to continue a functional life-style within their homes.

“When you talk about equipment you could be talk-

ing about anything from a pair of crutches to a wheel-chair,” Hayes said. “We also have people who can’t eat so we have food for them. We have people who have (spe-cific illnesses) so they need special supplies and equip-ment for that too.”

Many things you don’t think of are typically the biggest challenges to people with medical needs, Hayes said. These problems exist in more households than real-ized, which is why it is im-portant for seniors to weigh their options when it comes to the right accessibility technology.

“Without a medical sup-ply facility, you’re going have a higher amount of hospitals and senior facilities,” Hayes said. “These people would not be able to stay in their home if we’re not there to provide that oxygen or those

hospital beds. They would go somewhere where they could get 24-hour care.”

Many senior citizens choose to live in a facility where they have access to all the necessary equipment. Park Centre is a retirement facility for area residents that helps guide senior citizens’ independence.

“We focus on it being a very home-like environment, so we try to incorporate stuff that does help them just as if they had it in their home,” said Park Cntre Director of Nursing Jennifer Flake said. “It doesn’t become an ob-stacle; it becomes a tool for them to be successful. It aids them in their mobility to en-courage as much indepen-dence as possible. So having that equipment helps them maintain their mobility lon-ger. It’s like a tool for them to remain independent or as

an independent.”The existence of stair lifts,

chair lifts and even scooters provides senior citizens with an option to regain their in-dependence. Every day mo-tions and activities are lim-

ited to those who struggle with their mobility. How-ever, modern inventions and advanced equipment have helped with solving common issues that senior citizens face on a daily basis.

Alex Olp/Daily NewsManager Patti Hayes uses the control on the chair lift at Hammer Medical Supply in Newton.


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100 N. 4th Ave. W. • Newton, IAToll FREE 1-800-874-8546 Phone Answered 24 Hours For Emergencies

“Our Mission...Is Your Vision”

Chad E.Klein, O.D.

Kristin K. Rhoads, O.D.

641-792-7900

Understand and avoid elder financial fraudMetro Creative

Elder fraud is a finan-cial crime that targets older men and women who are often unable to recognize they are be-ing victimized. Elder fi-nancial fraud is a broad term that can be applied to a host of crimes, from stealing money or prop-erty directly from an in-dividual to using an older person’s property or pos-sessions without permis-sion.

Many seniors are tar-geted through telemar-keting scams in which elders are scared into giv-ing money out of fear of losing their homes. Some are exploited by people closer to home who forge

signatures or get an older person to sign over deeds or power of attorney.

Criminals often see elderly men and women as easy targets. Seniors may be suffering from declining physical and/or mental health, which compromises their ability to defend themselves or even recognize they are being taken advantage of. Seniors also may be em-barrassed that they were duped and not share their experiences with others as a result. But elder fraud also can be perpetrated by family members who aim to acquire an elderly rela-tive’s assets.

Recognizing scenarios where fraud may be com-mitted can help men and

women protect their el-derly relatives from being victimized by elder fraud.

• Confirm profes-sionals are who they say they are. More than 170 designations and certifi-cations are used within the financial industry to identify professionals. Some of them do not necessarily mean a per-son is qualified or can be trusted to handle an indi-vidual’s assets. Always ask a financial advisor if he is overseen by a government agency or is authorized to provide advice under the “fiduciary standard of care.” Be especially care-ful when dealing with advisors who try to push certain products or those who suggest shortcuts

and blending services. Such professionals are not necessarily criminals, but they may have ulte-rior motives in mind and not be overly concerned about you or your loved one’s financial well-being.

• Pay attention to your accounts. Unusually large withdrawals from auto-mated teller machines or cashed checks with sig-natures that do not match the signature on the ac-count are both indica-tive of fraud. If you are monitoring a loved one’s accounts, question any surges of activity in ac-counts that are normally somewhat inactive.

• Ask a loved one to keep you abreast of changes in their will. Abrupt changes in a will

or other financial docu-ments should also cause concern. Family members caring for a senior should be aware of any major changes to important documents.

• Monitor a loved one’s purchases. Sudden purchases, whether it’s an updated insurance policy or unnecessary home re-pairs, may be indicative of elder fraud.

Our home styleliving follows our

“Eden RegistryPhilosophy”

HERITAGE MANOR1743 S. 8th Ave. E., Newton

641-792-5680

How you want it.Where you want it.When you want it.

200 1st Ave. E. 641-792-3121newtondailynews.com

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Brandpoint

A visit to the pharmacy can be about more than just picking up prescriptions or supplies for the medicine cabinet. It can actually be an important, and convenient, time to ask your pharmacist key questions that could im-pact your health.

Dr. Andria Fetterman, a faculty member in South University Savannah’s School of Pharmacy, encourages people to use their pharma-cist as a resource for informa-tion about everything from prescription medication to lifestyle changes. Fetterman said there are five key ques-tions you should frequently

ask your pharmacist.

What can I expect from this medication?

Fetterman says whether you’re picking up an over-the-counter remedy or a pre-scription, you should feel free to ask your pharmacist what to expect from the medica-tion.

“Many medications have potential side effects that you should be aware of before you take them,” Fetterman said. “It may be something as mild as a little stomach discomfort or drowsiness, but knowing what to expect will help you handle any potential side ef-fects. Also, knowing what to expect could keep you from

blaming any new, unrelated symptoms on your medica-tion.”

You should also ask how long it will take for your medication to make you feel better. Fetterman says most antibiotics should have you feeling better in three to five days, but an anti-depressant may need to be in your sys-

tem for three weeks before you begin to feel its effects. If a prescription medicine doesn’t seem to be working in the proper time frame, you should let your doctor know. Remember that sudden dis-continuation of some medi-cations, without proper pro-fessional advice, can be costly to your health.

How long should I take an over the counter

medication before I call my doctor?

Over-the-counter medi-cines can provide relief for a number of ailments, but sometimes you need to see a doctor either for a prescrip-tion or a correct diagnosis of your symptoms. Fetterman said your pharmacist can help guide you when you’re not sure if it is time to see a doctor.

“A pharmacist can give you advice on how quickly you should see symptom re-lief with an over-the-counter medication,” says Fetterman. “Many times, people will treat themselves too long with over-the-counter medicine or will switch from one product to another looking for relief, and many times don’t go to a phy-sician when they need to.”

TOTAL FOOT CARENEWTON FOOT & ANKLE CLINIC

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Dr. Kevin J. Mulvey, DPM & Dr. Sean McMurray, DPM Podiatric Foot & Ankle Specialists

204 N. 2nd Ave. W., Newton, Iowa 641-792-6446

HAMMERMEDICAL SUPPLY




Pantone 355 M Pantone ReflexBlue M

Green Hammer Ribbon 1


Black Logo

Green Logo

Green Hammer Banner

Black Hammer Banner

Black Hammer Green Hammer

Now with Home Modifications from Hammer Medical Supply, you can stay safe at home for

as long as you want. Call today for a free home

assessment from our certified Home Modificaton Staff

• Walk in Tubs•Accessible Showers

•Stair Lifts and Elevators• Modular Ramps

•Complete Accessibility Remodeling








Black Logo

Green Logo

Green Hammer Banner

Black Hammer Banner


Please call or visit our Newton Location at:

1719 1st Avenue East (800) 365-5537

You have a choice. Choose Hammer.








Black Logo

Green Logo

Green Hammer Banner

Black Hammer Banner


Now with Home Modifications from Hammer Medical Supply, you can stay safe at home for

as long as you want. Call today for a free home

assessment from our certified Home Modificaton Staff

• Walk in Tubs•Accessible Showers

•Stair Lifts and Elevators• Modular Ramps

•Complete Accessibility Remodeling








Black Logo

Green Logo

Green Hammer Banner

Black Hammer Banner


Please call or visit our Newton Location at:

1719 1st Avenue East (800) 365-5537


Please call or visit our Newton Location at:1719 1st Avenue East

(800) 365-5537


Questions you should ask your pharmacist


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Newton Village Health Care Center offers skilled Physical, Occupational and

Speech Therapy.

110 N. 5th Ave. W. Newton641-792-0115

A Ministry of Elim Care, Inc.

“State of the Art” care center offering personalized rehabilitation

for your own specific needs.

Our Physical therapists have over 70 years of combined experience.

Call me for your personal tour.Margie Criswell

ndn-ss-01-23-2015

Documents

ment plan

sponsored retirement

plan specific

reasonable goals

rehabilitation patients

dont underestimate

iontophoresis programs

financial planner