1 - Senior Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2019

Supplement to the TribuneMach PublishingP.O. Box 499Snohomish, WA 98291-0499

Senior Lifestyles

Fall/Winter2019

2 - Senior Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2019

3 - Senior Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2019

(NewsUSA) - Many older adults experience feelings of loneliness and isolation as they age, but pets can provide the companionship and love seniors desire. A new sur-vey conducted by Home Instead, Inc., franchisor of the Home In-stead Senior Care Network, found regular interaction with animals can help to reduce feelings of isola-tion and loneliness in older adults.

The most frequently cited ben-efits of pet ownership are company, comfort, unconditional love, enter-tainment and improved mood. In fact, 86 percent of pet owners agree they would be lonelier and less happy without their pet, and 58 percent agree that they would not be as physically healthy without their pet.

The companionship and love pro-vided by a pet can be especially

meaningful for those most at risk for isolation. Home Instead found that pet owners who live alone are significantly more likely to report increased benefits of pet owner-ship.

Owning a pet can also be an im-portant factor for seniors deciding where they will live as they age. Ac-cording to the survey, 82 percent of older adults say they will not consider moving to a senior living community without their pet.

While interaction with animals has been shown to improve men-tal and physical well-being in older adults, research from Home Instead confirms that seniors don’t need to own pets to experience the ben-efits. Those who regularly interact with, but don’t own, pets report feeling better just spending time with animals owned by family,

friends and neighbors.There are many ways seniors can

interact with animals without tak-ing on the responsibility of pet ownership. Here are a few ideas:

• Volunteer at a rescue organiza-

tion or animal shelter. Many rescue organizations and animal shelters could use an extra hand. Seniors can help provide care for animals, including feeding, watering,

Furry Friends Help Seniors Feel Less Lonely

See FURRY FRIENDS on page 4

4 - Senior Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2019

re-stocking supplies, washing dishes, walking dogs, cleaning cages and enclosures or socializ-ing with the animals. Volunteers experience the benefits of inter-acting with pets, and they can provide some care to an animal in need.

• Get to know your neighbors’ pets. Seniors who regularly walk their neighborhoods will likely see pet owners walking their dogs. Asking to join them for a walk might lead to new friendships with neighbors and dogs.

• Connect with a therapy animal. Pet Partners therapy teams, made up of a pet owner and his or her registered animal, go into many locations where seniors are living or being treated, such as hospitals, hospice centers and care communi-ties.

• Visit a pet store. Some pet stores sell small animals, such as guinea pigs, hamsters, chinchillas, gerbils, mice, rats, certain geckos, bearded dragons, snakes, and specific types of frogs, birds and fish. Visiting can provide a pet fix!

With so many options available, finding the right animal interaction for each individual should be as easy as a walk in the dog park.

To help older adults determine what type of pet interaction is right for them, the Home Instead Senior Care® network is offering free in-formation and tips to help seniors incorporate animals into their lives. To learn more about how older adults can bring animals into their lives, visit PetsandSeniors.com or contact your local Home Instead Senior Care office or www.homein-stead.com.

Furry Friends continued from page 3

The free gardening classes listed below are held at Sunnyside Nursery, 3915 Sunnyside Blvd. in Marysville at 10 a.m. (unless otherwise noted). Call 425-334-2002 for more information.

• Pruning - The Good, The Bad, The Ugly: Jan. 4 and 18

• Houseplants = Healthy Air: Jan. 11• PNW Fruit Trees: Jan. 25; Also Jan.

26 at 2 p.m. • Fresh Backyard Berries: Feb. 1 and

also at 2 p.m.; and Feb. 8• Hellebores – Winter Jewels: Feb. 15• Spring Invaders: Feb. 16 at 11 a.m.• Roses for Everyone: Feb. 22• Conifer Kingdom: Feb. 29• New & Exciting for 2020: March

1 at 11 a.m.• Want an Emerald Green Lawn?:

March 7; also March 8 at 11 a.m.• Summer Blooming Bulbs: March

14

• Dazzling Dahlias: March 15 at 11 a.m.

• Edible Landscapes: March 22 at 11 a.m.

• Organic Gardening: March 28• Beginning Bonsai: March 29 at

11 a.m.• Growing Spring Veggies: April 4• Japanese Maples: April 18• Colorful Climbers: April 19 at 11

a.m.• Rockin’ Rhodies: April 25• Rhododendron Society Truss

Show: April 25 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Free gardening classes

5 - Senior Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2019

Senior LifestylesPublisher:Becky Reed

Editorial Design:Joanne Cole

Senior Lifestyles is published by Mach PublishingP. O. Box 499, Snohomish WA 98291-0499

The TribuneP.O. Box 499

Snohomish, WA 98291-0499360-568-4121 or 425-258-9396

Supplement to the Tribune Newspapers

(BPT) - Every year, many seniors are targeted by scammers who want to steal their Medicare num-bers to do things like rack up fake health care charges and commit identity theft. These scams hurt seniors and other people eligible for Medicare, cost taxpayers mon-ey, and result in higher health care costs for everyone. The good news is that you can protect yourself from fraud and help Medicare stop scammers in their tracks.

How to Spot Medicare FraudThe first step in protecting your-

self from Medicare fraud is know-ing how to spot it. Over time, scammers have become very so-phisticated and advanced. One of the latest scams you should look out for concerns genetic testing. Scammers are offering “free” ge-

netic tests and claiming Medicare will cover it - so they can get your Medicare number and use it to commit fraud and identity theft. Other Medicare scams include offers for free or reduced-price medical equipment, consultations, or health services. These scams can happen anywhere, including through telemarketing calls, health fairs, and even knocking on doors.

Last year, the Centers for Medi-care & Medicaid Services (CMS) removed Social Security numbers from all Medicare cards. Even with this change, people with Medicare should still guard their Medicare card and treat it like a credit card, check Medicare claims summary forms for errors, and be wary of

Protecting yourself from Medicare fraud

See FRAUD on page 17

6 - Senior Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2019

7 - Senior Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2019

By Luke KreigerGarden Court Retirement Community

An unfortunate part of life is that

as we get older there may be a loss of mobility, dexterity and our other senses may start to weaken. One thing you can do is take control of the future and decide what you want to happen as you age. Would you like to stay in your home as long as possible and perhaps get help in your home? Would you like to integrate into a retirement com-munity and be part of the daily ac-tivities and socialization?

Eventually either you or your loved ones will need to make deci-sions about your safety and your future home. If you make them sooner rather than later, the choices will be up to you. The future can

be scary because we never know how it will turn out. If you wait too long then the decision may be largely out of your hands. What can you do?

Start early; plan what you would like out of your golden years. While living alone in a home has become a normal part of life for many, when we stop driving as much, or not at all, many people will become more and more isolated. We can’t still do everything we could in our 40’s, so we sometimes give up on activities and opportunities for so-cialization. For some, this can lead to depression.

By thinking about what you will want and need as you age and re-ally plan for the future, the bur-den on yourself or your children and will be lessened. Take some time and consider, if you were no

Taking control of aginglonger able to manage all of your daily liv-ing tasks, what you would like in the future. Often, senior living options, like Garden Court Retire-ment Commu-nity in South Everett, are a great way to maintain your in-dependence and a healthy social lifestyle. Many will offer a variety of delicious meals, fun activities, help with your daily living needs, transportation and creative ways to socialize.

When it comes time for you to make your choice, make sure you have done some research and

find somewhere where you will be happy, and your kids won’t have to worry about you. Make sure to think about what you really want out of your golden years, don’t leave it to chance – plan for yourself. Remember that while your past formed who you are, your future is what is left to decide.

8 - Senior Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2019

NewsUSA) - You’re never too old to develop or refine an exercise program. And there has never been more opportunity to find an array of programs that suit your inter-ests, your fitness ability and your

lifestyle.As an older adult, the reasons for

exercise change: benefits include helping to control chronic condi-tions such as hypertension and diabetes, strengthening muscles to

prevent falls, and improving flexi-bility to maintain activities of daily living.

An added benefit? Regular ex-ercise can help boost your mood and improve your overall sense of well-being. And, you’ll make new friends! (Of course, always talk to your doctor before starting any type of exercise program.)

Where to look for a new exercise program? Start with your local fit-ness or community center. The key is finding activities that you enjoy. Some tips to get started:

• Follow your interests. Like to dance? Swim? Maybe yoga or Tai-Chi sounds appealing. There are fitness classes for every taste and ability level.

• Follow your friends. Going to a fitness class with a friend improves your motivation and if you’re go-

ing it alone – here’s your chance to make new friends!

• Listen to your body. Exercise doesn’t need to be painful to be beneficial. Start slow and progress over time.

• Set goals. How often do you want to exercise? How hard? Develop a three- to six-month plan so you can measure your success.

But wait, there’s more: Older adults who participate in group ex-ercise programs report improved quality of life from the social as-pect of group fitness. The group creates a sense of community that helps keep you motivated.

Social isolation, which often leads to loneliness, is common among seniors, but taking a fitness class can forge a bond that keeps people

Tips for Boosting Exercise Motivation

See EXERCISE on page 9

9 - Senior Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2019

Exercise continued from page 8

The Carl Gipson Senior Center of Everett will offer Saturday Dances on the second and fourth Saturdays from 1-3 p.m. beginning in January 2020. Dance to all styles of dance music including Swing, Cha Cha, Rumbas, Waltzes, as well as line dances and even a little rock and roll. Admission is $5 per person, minimum age is 50. Refreshments will be provided.

Carl Gipson Senior Center is located at 3025 Lombard in Everett.

Saturday Dancescoming back for exercise and extends to socializing outside of class.

In a recent study of adults aged 65 years and older, researchers sur-veyed 46,564 participants in the SilverSneakers fitness program be-tween 2010 and 2016 to determine how exercise improved their qual-ity of life.

“Even though regular physical activity is important, well-being is about more than just exercise,” according to Julie Logue, Training Manager at Tivity Health. “Through SilverSneakers, you can explore all kinds of fitness programs, social-ization and nutrition programs to help you live your best life. We em-power members to live healthier, happier, longer.”

Older adults with more frequent visits to fitness centers who par-ticipate in SilverSneakers exercise programs report significantly fewer days when they felt physically or mentally unwell and rated their physical and mental health higher than those who participated less frequently.

Curious about more ways to stay motivated to get and stay fit? Dur-ing open enrollment for health insurance enroll in a plan that of-fers SilverSneakers, which provides members with access to more than 16,000 fitness and community lo-cations nationwide.

To check your eligibility and find a health plan that includes Silver-Sneakers, call 888-423-4632 or visit silversneakers.com.

10 - Senior Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2019

(StatePoint) Every day, roughly 10,000 baby boomers nationwide turn 65, according to the Pew Re-search Center, which means that a growing number of Americans are dealing with the many challenges associated with aging parents. Among them is determining when parents may need assistance they aren’t currently receiving.

“Asking for help and depending on others for care may make an in-dividual feel like a burden to family or friends. The goal of home care should be to strengthen the mind and the body, lift spirits and sup-port loved ones in a way that makes life worth living,” says Jennifer Sheets, president and chief execu-tive officer of Caring Brands Inter-national and Interim HealthCare Inc. “This whole person and indi-vidualized approach allows care-

givers to look for ways to empower people at home.”

Unfortunately, when seniors struggle with basic tasks such as self-care, transportation or house-hold chores, they don’t always talk about it. They may be embarrassed or afraid of losing their indepen-dence or homes. Still others may not even realize anything is amiss, particularly if they’re in the begin-ning stages of dementia.

Interim HealthCare shares some warning signs that an aging loved one may be in need of senior care:

• A change in mood, such as de-pression, anxiety or a loss of inter-est in social activities and hobbies.

• Significant weight loss, which can happen for a variety of reasons, including serious physical and mental disorders.

• Issues with mobility and bal-

ance. These can be signs of joint, muscle or neurological problems, and increase the likelihood of falls.

• Bruises, cuts or scrapes are sometimes evidence of falls or kitchen mishaps, and a potential indication of declining physical agility.

• Piles of bills, un-watered plants and overflowing hampers – these are just a few of the many signs that basic tasks are being neglected.

• New dents or dings on your par-ents’ vehicle. These could be signs that safe driving has become an is-sue.

• Stains, missing buttons and un-trimmed nails, are signs of neglect-ed personal hygiene.

• No food in the house, or moldy, stale or spoiled food, might mean a parent is struggling to grocery shop or cook, or may have even lost

interest in eating.• A prescription stockpile could

indicate your parent is forgetting to take critical pills.

• Stacks of unopened bills, late payment notices, unbalanced checkbooks and wads of cash stashed in odd places, are all signs of mismanaged money.

If a parent requires extra care, consider all your options. Look for care that offers a whole-person ap-proach, such as Interim Health-Care’s HomeLife Enrichment stan-dard of care, which looks beyond basic needs to encompass mind, body, spirit and family to develop specific protocols and interactive activities that stimulate the brain, improve motor functions and help seniors feel in control of their days. To learn more, visit interimhealth-care.com.

Signs your aging parents need more help

11 - Senior Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2019

12 - Senior Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2019

Events and Day Trips at local senior centers

continued on next page

• Community Breakfast and BINGO

The Snohomish Senior Center hosts a Community Breakfast and BINGO Bonanza the first Saturday of each month from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Enjoy biscuits and gravy, pancakes or French toast, ham or sausage, scrambled eggs, juice, tea and coffee. Suggested donation is adults $5, kids age 10 and under $3.

Doors open for BINGO at 4 p.m. Early Bird is at 5:15 p.m. and the Session starts at 5:30 p.m. The Café will be open.

The Center is located at 506 Fourth St. in Snohomish. 360-568-0934.

• Pancake BreakfastThe Monroe Community Senior

Center hosts a community breakfast the third Saturday of each month

from 8-10 a.m. Enjoy eggs cooked to order, ham or sausage, juice, coffee, tea and milk – all for just $6 each, kids under age 10 eat free. The Center is located at 276 Sky River Parkway in Monroe. 360-794-6359.

• Learn the UkuleleHave you always wanted to play

the Ukulele or perhaps used to play but it’s been a while? “Papa Kila” (Penitila Leapaga) has been playing the Ukulele along with several other instruments for over 45 years. Lessons are on the 2nd and 4th Mondays at 11:30 a.m. Lessons are $5 each, register at the front counter. “Papa” is also available to teach guitar or bass lessons. Carl Gipson Senior Center, 3025 Lombard Ave. in Everett. 425-257-8780.

13 - Senior Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2019

• Lights of Christmas Dinner Theater

Take a brief walk around the enchanted lighted grounds and then settle in for a fabulous 5-course meal and live theatre. The play this year is “A Christmas Cactus.” Comedy, mystery and romance converge in this charming contemporary Christmas tale where goodwill and justice triumph. Friday, Dec. 13 with the Snohomish Senior Center, 506 Fourth St. in Snohomish. Cost is $80 members, $115 non-members. 360-568-0934.

• Holiday Tea Invite your Mom, daughter, and

friends to join you at the Holiday Tea. The menu will include tea sandwiches, salads and specialty desserts. Tickets are $12 and are on

Events and Day Trips at local senior centerssale at the Front Desk. Saturday, Dec. 14 at 2 p.m. at the Snohomish Senior Center, 506 Fourth St. in Snohomish. 360-568-0934.

• Police Holiday MealEverett’s finest honors seniors by

providing a festive holiday meal Dec. 15 at 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. at Carl Gipson Senior Center, 3025 Lombard Ave. in Everett. 425-257-8780.

• The Power of B12 and Acupuncture

Fa t i g u e d ? Po o r m e m o r y ? Neuropathy? Poor vision? Digestive issues? Depressed? Experience the healing power of acupuncture point injection therapy with the benefits of Vitamin B12. Tuesday, Dec. 17 at the Snohomish Senior Center, 506 Fourth St. in Snohomish. See the front desk for details or call 360-568-0934. $20 members, $25 for the general public.

• Olive Garden & Snowflake Lane

Olive Garden has something for any appetite! After dinner, experience the wonder of falling snow, dazzling lights, festive characters along with all your favorite holiday characters at the region’s most festive holiday parade – Snowflake Lane at Bellevue Place! Tuesday, Dec. 17 with Monroe Community Senior Center, 276 Sky River Parkway in Monroe. $15 members, $25 guests.

• Seahawks LegendsThe 12 Days of Goodness brings

Seattle Seahawk Legends to the Carl Gipson Senior Center to share memories and touch the hearts of seniors in the greater Puget Sound area during the holiday season. This event on Wednesday, Dec. 18 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. is open to the public. Show your support and wear your Seahawks gear! 3025 Lombard Ave. in Everett.

• Snowflake Lane & Bellevue Square

Do some Christmas shopping at Bellevue Square before checking out Snowflake Lane, featuring a nightly parade with a cast of 300 performers including Toy Drummers, Jingle Belle Dancers, Stilt Walkers, Snow Flurries Color Guard and 16 lighted floats. Dinner is on your own. Wednesday, Dec. 18 with the Snohomish Senior Center, 506 Fourth St. in Snohomish. Cost is $8 members, $43 non-members. 360-568-0934.

• Christmas LunchThe Village Voices Choir will be

performing and Fire District 7 will be serving lunch to honor seniors. Friday, Dec. 20 at Noon at the Monroe Community Center, 276 Sky River Parkway in Monroe. 360.794-6359.

continued on page 15

continued from previous page

14 - Senior Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2019

15 - Senior Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2019

Events and Day Trips at local senior centers• New Year’s Eve DanceCelebrate the New Year at Carl

Gipson Senior Center on Monday, Dec. 31 from 1-3 p.m. Music provided by Lauren Petrie includes Swing, Cha-Cha, Waltz, Rumba, line dancing and more. Must be 50+ to attend. $5 admission. 3025 Lombard Ave. in Everett. 425-257-8780.

• Seattle Art Museum & Pike Place Market

Seattle Art Museum is the first stop. Admission to SAM Collections will be free. If there’s a Special Exhibit you’ve been waiting to explore, you can pay your own additional admission fee. Afterward, walk to Pike Place Market for lunch and browsing. Pick your own place to have lunch and wander through the market stalls and shops on as many levels as you want. Cost of lunch is on your own;

Special Exhibitions fee for Seniors is $7.99. This trip is with the Lynnwood Senior Center on Friday, Jan. 3 (sign up by Dec. 11). Transportation cost is $15 members, $21 non-members. The Center is located at 19000-44th Ave. W in Lynnwood. 425-670-5050. (Code # 4365)

• Cosmic Bingo and Dinner!Come for an out-of-this-world

night of bingo, music, games, food and FUN! Win cash and prizes! Beer, wine and margaritas available for purchase. $25 includes dinner and bingo. Admission is cash or debit card at the door – first come, first served. Saturday, Jan. 11 at the Monroe Community Senior Center, 276 Sky River Parkway in Monroe. 360-794-6359.

• GUYS & DOLLS This colorful musical has been an

iconic crowd-pleaser since it first

hit Broadway in 1950. Early dinner after the show. Presented by Village Theatre. Thursday, Jan. 16 with the Snohomish Senior Center, 506 Fourth St. in Snohomish. $85 members, $120 non-members. 360-568-0934.

• Pacific Science Center and Vietnamese Lunar New Year Festival

You’ll breathe in spring when you step into the Tropical Butterfly House at Pacific Science Center and see hundreds of butterflies in the air. You’ll also have the opportunity to sit in on a laser or planetarium show. If you like, choose to learn current science facts at a Live Science Show or Portal to Current Research talk. Take time to walk to the Armory for lunch and to see some of the Vietnamese Lunar New Year festival at Seattle Center. Trip registration includes admission and a laser show;

food, beverage and other purchases are on your own. Saturday, Jan. 18 (sign up by Dec. 11) with Lynnwood Senior Center, 19000-44th Ave. W. in Lynnwood. $47 members, $52 non-members. 425-670-5050 (code # 4663).

• Lake Chelan WinterfestCelebrate the beauty of all that is

cold at Winterfest on Lake Chelan and the annual Bavarian Icefest in Leavenworth! Spend the night at Mountain View Lodge in Manson, before traveling to Leavenworth to see lingering holiday light displays, live ice carving and fireworks show at 6 p.m. Dress warmly, prepare for any type of weather, and enjoy the experience! January 18-19 with the Carl Gipson Senior Center, 3025 Lombard Ave. in Everett. $249 per person. 425-257-8780.continued on next page

continued from page 13

16 - Senior Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2019

Events and Day Trips at local senior centers• Ursulmas Medieval FaireStep into a world filled with the crafts

and activities of the Middle Ages at this Faire at the Evergreen State Fairgrounds. You can watch knights in armor face off in combat or check out the covered arena for archery and axe throwing competitions. For food and drink, stop in at Ursulwyck Medieval Village. Trip registration includes admission to the Faire; food, beverage and other purchases are on your own. Saturday, Jan. 25 (sign up by Dec. 11) with Lynnwood Senior Center, 19000-44th Ave. W. in Lynnwood. Cost is $22 members, $28 non-members. 425-670-5050. (Code # 4400)

• Elk FeedingPack a camera and binoculars for

the ride! See elk and bighorn sheep feeding during a guided tour of

the Oak Creek Wildlife Area, where Washington maintains a winter feeding program for the Yakima elk herd. Up to 1,200 elk comprise the herd. Thursday, Feb. 6 with Carl Gipson Senior Center, 3025 Lombard Ave. in Everett. $49 per person. 425-257-8780.

• Seattle Improv FestivalWho knows what’s in store as you

watch performers come up with amazing new shows on the spot. Bring ideas and a sense of wonder and watch new shows unfold in front of you. Thursday, Feb. 13 with the Carl Gipson Senior Center, 3025 Lombard Ave. in Everett. $49 per person. 425-257-8780.

• Northwest Flower & Garden Festival

Catch spring fever and glean ideas for your own projects from 30 display gardens and thousands of vendors

at the Northwest Flower & Garden Show. Bring money for lunch on your own and shopping. Friday, Feb. 28 with Carl Gipson Senior Center, 3025 Lombard Ave. in Everett. $59 per person. 425-257-8780.

• Maltby Café & Flower WorldDevote a day to camaraderie and

beauty on a spring field trip to Maltby Café and Flower World. Fill up with conversation and a satisfying breakfast before meandering through expansive gardens and greenhouses in spring bloom. Bring money for food and shopping, and dress comfortably for walking and the weather. Tuesday, March 21 with Carl Gipson Senior Center, 3025 Lombard Ave. in Everett. 425-257-8780. $20 members, $30 non-members.

• Professional Bull RidersWatch amazing athletes take on the

strongest bulls at the largest event of

its kind in the Pacific Northwest at the Professional Bull Rider’s event at the Tacoma Dome. The price includes a ticket to the event, parking and round-trip transportation. Please bring money for food and any souvenirs that you may want to purchase. Saturday, March 28 with Carl Gipson Senior Center, 3025 Lombard Ave. in Everett. $79 per person. 425-257-8780.

continued from page 15

photo by MONGO

2149

467

• Studio and one bedroom apartments

• Close to shopping

• Affordable rent includes utilities

• On Metro bus route

• Restaurant on-site – open to the public

• Must be 62 or older; income limits apply

Call today for information and application

Quality Senior Living Community

206-364-2440747 N 135th St. • Seattle, WA

2149

467

• Studio and one bedroom apartments

• Close to shopping

• Affordable rent includes utilities

• On Metro bus route

• Restaurant on-site – open to the public

• Must be 62 or older; income limits apply

Call today for information and application

Quality Senior Living Community

206-364-2440747 N 135th St. • Seattle, WA

2149

467

• Studio and one bedroom apartments

• Close to shopping

• Affordable rent includes utilities

• On Metro bus route

• Restaurant on-site – open to the public

• Must be 62 or older; income limits apply

Call today for information and application

Quality Senior Living Community

206-364-2440747 N 135th St. • Seattle, WA

2149

467

• Studio and one bedroom apartments

• Close to shopping

• Affordable rent includes utilities

• On Metro bus route

• Restaurant on-site – open to the public

• Must be 62 or older; income limits apply

Call today for information and application

Quality Senior Living Community

206-364-2440747 N 135th St. • Seattle, WA

SANFORD HILDEBRANT TOWERS 1

17 - Senior Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2019

any unsolicited requests for your Medicare number. Medicare will never call beneficiaries to ask for or check Medicare numbers.

To protect yourself from Medicare fraud, keep these things to “do” and “don’t do” in mind:

• DO treat your Medicare card like it’s a credit card.

• DO review your Medicare claims for fake charges, double billing or other fraudulent activity.

• DON’T give your Medicare card or Medicare number to anyone except your doctor or people you know should have it.

• DON’T accept medical supplies, equipment, or genetic testing kits from door-to-door salesmen or so-licitors at a mall or fair.

• DON’T let anyone persuade you to receive health care services you don’t need, such as genetic testing.

Only make these decisions with your doctor.

• DON’T accept offers of money or gifts for free medical care.

If you think you may have spot-ted fraud, you should report it right away. No matter how mini-mal the information you share is, it could be the missing piece to stopping the next fraud scheme. If you are a victim of fraud, know that you won’t be penalized or lose your coverage for reporting it. Even if you are not a victim, it’s important to report any fraud scams you encounter to Medicare. Report suspected fraud by call-ing 1-800-MEDICARE or online through the Office of the Inspector General.

Information provided by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.

Fraud continued from page 5

18 - Senior Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2019

19 - Senior Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2019

By Nancy Fischer

A pebble drops into the water and creates a ripple. The movement of the water is disturbed and then calms, but beyond our vison the ripple continues in ever-widening circles.

Some years ago, a farmer near Yakima lost his wife. He gave much of her clothing to his niece saying, “Here, take what you can use and maybe you can find somebody who can use what’s left.” That woman, my cousin, culled what she wanted and brought the rest to me. “Take what you can use and maybe someone at the Senior Center can use what is left.” I found some things I liked and then hung the rest of the clothing around my apartment, baked goodies and one

day invited people who were at the Center to come over for coffee, treats and shopping. There were seven of us that afternoon. We ate, tried on clothes, and talked…talked…talked. The consensus was that we should do it again. And so, “Everybody’s Closet” was born.

From my condo to a small room at the Senior Center, to a larger room at the Center, to the largest room at the Center, we have grown from a pair of cousins to a community event. Clothing is donated from all areas of the community and is displayed on clothing racks and tables. But the essential core has not changed. When you come to “Everybody’s Closet,” you are fed, you find people to talk with and you are given a shopping bag. Everything is free.

You cannot put a price on family, and we are the human family. One Sunday, I heard words that seemed to me to be the essence of what we were doing. “We are not social workers. We’re not doormats. We are brothers and sisters.” If you are my brother or sister, I do not say to you, “Can you use this? I’ll give it to you for five dollars.” I say, “Can you use it? It’s yours.” Need has never been a criteria for participation. We are all in need of human kindness, and all people need to be valued.

S o , w h e n y o u c o m e t o “Ever ybody’s Closet,” we give you a plate, a seat at the table and a shopping bag. And you give us joy by being there. It’s an even exchange.

This t r u ly has b ecome a community effort with partners

who encourage us to grow and serve. Special thanks goes out to the Carl Gipson Senior Center. They allow us to use their space for the event and provide coffee. The Senior Center Foundation shares a storage space with us. Advent Lutheran Church and the YWCA are the largest single contributors of clothing to this event. Grandview Village provides food for the event.

The next scheduled dates for “Everybody’s Closet” are Saturday, December 21 and Saturday, March 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Carl Gipson Senior Center, 3025 Lombard Ave. in Everett.

For more information please call 425-257-8780.

Everybody’s Closet continues to grow

20 - Senior Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2019

(StatePoint) Play is important for everyone, no matter their age.

“Play time with adults of differ-ent ages is not just a chance for families to bond, these interactions with positive role models can help children develop a range of impor-tant social, language and problem-solving skills,” says Dr. Amanda Gummer, child psychologist and an expert contributor to TheGeniusof-Play.org.

Adults benefit from play time too. As one grows older, the free unstructured fun enjoyed in child-hood is often replaced with struc-tured activities like sports, card games and solving crosswords. Time spent with youngsters can keep adults young and give them a chance to relive more carefree days.

According to The Genius of Play, a national initiative whose mission

Children should spend time with grandparentsis to raise awareness about the im-portance of play and help parents make play a critical part of raising their kids, here are three reasons why intergenerational play is good for young children:

• Unstructured play tends to be collaborative, encouraging coop-eration and honesty.

• Spending time with older adults helps children understand how ag-ing works, and later accept their own aging.

• Grandparents are storytellers and their wisdom and experience can open children’s horizons fur-ther, as well as ignite imagination and creativity.

When it comes to adults, intergen-erational play is beneficial in the following ways:

• Children bring innocence, joy and laughter to any situation, help-

ing adults reduce stress.• Active, busy play time can keep

an older adult vital and healthy. In-deed, those that play with children burn more calories, experience

fewer falls and become less reliant on walking aids, according to stud-ies.

(c) [VadimGuzhva]/ [iStock / Getty Images Plus] via Getty Images

See GRANDPARENTS on page 22

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21 - Senior Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2019

22 - Senior Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2019

• Play time is good for an ag-ing adult’s mental and emotional health. Games can help seniors maintain cognitive skills and retain memory, and the quality time with children can prevent feelings of loneliness and boost positivity.

Whether you’re young, old or somewhere in between, these three tips from The Genius of Play can help you make the most of the time together:

• Share your favorite games with your grandchildren. From hide-and-seek to hula-hoops, introduc-ing them to the games you played years ago is a great way to connect and make new memories.

• Give children an opportunity to express themselves by letting them share their ideas for what they want to play with you. They’ll be more enthusiastic about participating

if they get to call the shots some-times. In today’s tech-savvy world, grandchildren might want to play with a toy that uses augmented re-ality or teaches coding skills. This can be a great way to engage with them on their level and learn more about their favorite activities. Plus, you’ll be learning something new!

• Let your grandchildren win and lose the game sometimes. This is a great chance to boost self-esteem while learning about good sports-manship.

There’s no doubt about it, inter-generational play is beneficial to everyone along for the fun. Be sure to carve out play time for your fam-ily, particularly when visiting with older relatives.

For more play ideas, expert ad-vice and resources for families, visit TheGeniusOfPlay.org.

Grandparents cont. from page 20

(StatePoint) Recognizing and tak-ing steps to address the warning signs of Alzheimer’s and other de-mentias can be extremely challeng-ing – especially in the early stages. It’s easy and common to dismiss cognitive changes in oneself or a family member as “normal aging.”

“Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging,” says Dr. Keith Fargo, di-rector, scientific programs and out-reach at the Alzheimer’s Associa-tion. “With normal aging, you may forget where you parked your car –that happens to all of us. But if you get in your car and get lost coming home – that’s not normal.”

Alzheimer’s is a fatal progressive disease that attacks the brain, kill-ing nerve cells and tissue, affecting

Alzheimer’s and Dementia signs

an individual’s ability to remem-ber, think, plan and ultimately function. Today, more than 5 mil-lion Americans are living with Al-zheimer’s. By 2050, that number is projected to skyrocket to nearly 14 million.

To help families identify signs early on, the Alzheimer’s Associa-tion offers 10 Warning Signs and Symptoms, a list of some common signs that can be early symptoms of Alzheimer’s or other dementias:

1. Disruptive memory loss. For-getting recently learned informa-tion, asking the same questions over and over and increasingly re-lying on memory aids.

continued on next page

23 - Senior Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2019

Alzheimer’s continued from previous page

2. Challenges in solving problems. Changes in one’s ability to develop and follow a plan or work with numbers, such as having trouble following a familiar recipe or keep-ing track of monthly bills.

3. Difficulty completing daily tasks, such as organizing a grocery list or remembering the rules of a favorite game.

4. Confusion with time or place. Losing track of dates, seasons and the passage of time.

5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships. Vision problems, which may lead to difficulty with balance or trouble reading.

6. New problems with words in speaking or writing. Trouble fol-lowing or joining a conversation or a struggle with vocabulary. For

example, calling a “watch” a “hand-clock.”

7. Putting things in unusual plac-es and being unable to go back over one’s steps to find them again.

8. Decreased or poor judgment. Changes in judgment or decision-making when dealing with such matters as money and grooming.

9. Withdrawal from work or social activities. Changes in the ability to hold or follow a conversation can result in a withdrawal from hobbies or social activities.

10. Mood and personality chang-es, such as confusion, suspicion, depression, fearfulness and anxiety.

To learn more about Alzheimer’s disease and to find resources, visit alz.org, the website of the Alzheim-er’s Association or call its 24/7, free Helpline at 800-272-3900.

It’s important to note that exhib-iting one or more of these warning signs does not mean someone has Alzheimer’s. In fact, these signs may signal other – even treatable

– conditions. It’s important to talk to your doctor to understand what is driving cognitive changes so you can better manage the condition – whatever the diagnosis.

24 - Senior Lifestyles Fall/Winter 2019