Charlotte Caregiver Magazine June July 2010

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SG Publications770.435.21833506 Vernadean DriveAtlanta, GA 30339Publisher: Mark ShekerowDesign: Infinite Ideas & Designs

We owe so much to the veterans who have served our country with dignity and honor. This issue spotlights care giving for wounded warriors. On the cover is Vietnam Veteran Max Cleland. Max, a former U.S. Senator from the State of Georgia, is a leading veterans’ advocate. You can read an enlightening interview with Max on page 8.

Our veterans’ ages range from 18 to 80. Their needs vary from prosthesis to emotional counseling. We would like to hear from our readers with experiences you have had caring for veterans. Please visit our website at www.sgcaregiver.com and add your comments in our guest book.

Our goal is to identify needs of caregivers and to have articles and advertisers who help meet these needs. Please support our advertisers who make this magazine possible. Be sure to mention the Regional Caregiver Magazine when you contact them.

The next issue will spotlight care giving by families with special needs children. We would like to hear from our readers with any experience in this area. We would also like to hear if there are any special topics that you would like covered in our magazine.

Our magazine is free and distributed at various locations in each region. If you would like a magazine mailed to your home, the cost is $12 for 6 issues to cover postage and handling. You can either sign up on our website or send a check to: SG Publishing, 3506 Vernadean Dr. Atlanta, GA 30339.

Mark ShekerowPublisher

Charlotte Regional Caregiver Magazine is published by SG Publications. No materials may be reproduced in any form without the express written permission of the publisher. Information, organizations and resources mentioned in Regional Caregiver publications are for informational purposes only and do not constitute endorsement or recommendation by SG Publications. Nor is SG Publications responsible for any errors that may occur and cannot be held responsible for any damages that might arise from use of this material. Readers are encouraged to consult with an appropriate health care provider or other professionals before taking any actions that might occur as a result of reading this magazine.SG Publications is not responsible for any unsolicited manuscripts, artwork or any other unsolicited material.

To place an ad or listing, contact Charlotte Regional Manager,

Kim Kilbarger404.441.9520

[email protected]

If you or someone you know is interested in being involved in our growing magazine, please contact us at: mshekerow@sgcaregivercom. We are always on the lookout for active, independent individuals who support caregivers, enjoy working on their own and are looking to supplement their monthly income.

WWith the downturn in the economy and the increase in longevity, many baby-boomers are opting to live independently for as long as their health allows before moving into a nursing facility. There are numerous products and recommendations that allow seniors to age-in-place safely and comfortably by remaining in their homes, living with family members, or moving into a retirement community.

Our own North Carolina State University is the home of The Center of Universal Design. (http://www.design.ncsu.edu/cud) These products can make a senior’s home environment safe and accessible while adding style and increasing the value of the home. Senior-friendly products include elevators, roll-in showers, lever door handles, adjustable shower heads and recessed lighting. These and many other safety products will keep the senior safe from falls and allow for maximum maneuverability.

Because a large percentage of falls occur in the bathroom, sturdy bathroom grab bars are a necessity for seniors. Unfortunately, some people think that towel bars, toilet paper holders, and soap dishes can be used for support, but these items are not designed for such heavy use and will likely break and cause a fall. A safer solution is to properly install several grab bars in the bathroom. There are numerous beautiful styles of grab bars available, many with matching faucets. Some grab bars are disguised as towel racks yet have the strength to support up to 400 lbs. For those who are less mobile, it may be necessary to install a ceiling lift to assure safe transfers from a wheelchair to the toilet or shower.

Some modifications to a senior’s home are quite simple and can make a huge difference in safety and functionality. For example, occupational therapists recommend that throw rugs be removed from the home because they can cause a senior to slip and fall. Installing ramps with a gentle angle for use with a wheel chair or walker can also be a big help. Electronic chair lifts are the perfect solution for a two story home with stairs. Re-arranging frequently used items into lower and more accessible cabinets and closets can allow a senior to be safe and still operate independently. There are many professionals who can recommend and design just the right environment for the senior at a price within your budget. With so many products available, a professional’s experience in selecting the best product for the situation and

knowing which products are the most reliable is invaluable.

The increased demand for seniors to age-in-place has prompted the National Association of Home Builders to accredit Certified Age-in-Place Specialists (CAPS). CAPS are uniquely qualified to perform a safety

home assessment and provide a detailed plan for making senior-friendly modifications to a home. CAPS work with occupational therapists, physical therapists and other medical professionals to ensure that each senior’s unique safety and comfort needs are met. Find out more information on CAPS at http://ageinplace.com/certified-aging-in-place-specialists-caps/ .

So, for seniors planning to age-in-place, don’t wait to update the home with safety and maneuverability features to keep them healthy and independent as long as possible. Now is the time to install those grab bars, ramps, and levered door handles to prevent painful and costly falls. In a study of seniors age 72 and older, the average health care cost for a fall injury is $19, 400 for emergency room, hospital, nursing home, and home health care, but not including doctor’s services (1).

With a little planning and a few modifications a senior can comfortably and safely remain in his stylishly appointed home. The senior can enjoy his independence stress-free and maintain his previous lifestyle much longer before his health requires a move to a nursing facility.1 Rizzo JA, Friedkin R, Williams CS, Nabors J, Acampora D, Tinetti ME. Health care utilization and costs in a Medicare population by fall status. Medical Care 1998;36(8):1174–88.

Adele Mahan, CRTS, ASP, CAPSis a Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist

and Owner of Fresh Start Transitions, LLCCharlotte, NC

Designing to Safely Age-in-PlaceBy Adele Mahan, CRTS, ASP, CAPS

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4 Charlotte Regional Caregiver4

MICHELE FRONZAGLIAOwner/Care CoordinatorAlways Best Care16041-G Johnston RdSuite #140Charlotte, NC 28277(704)243-9344 ph(704)219-4063 cell

mfronzaglia@abc-seniors.comwww.AlwaysBestCareSouthCharlotte.comwww.AlwaysBestCareRockHill-Lancaster.com

The Leader in Non-Medical In Home Care & Assisted Living Placement Services

Dad goes out with his shirt on inside out. Mom gets lost on her way to the grocery store. Even though you know your parents are aging, there’s still a lot of denial about just how bad it’s gotten. We tend not to discuss the unpleasant subject of what happens when mom or dad can no longer be safe alone or needs assistance with daily living to maintain their independence.

And then the crisis hits: Dad’s fallen and broken a hip or had a stroke. Mom’s forgetfulness has progressed to the point that something must be done. Now what? We typically have no idea what is ahead and are unprepared when it happens. Grief, guilt, anger and disagreements within the family are common. What should we do? Where do we turn? are questions that demand answers. Even if we are well versed in the senior industry, the upheaval is overwhelming and confusing.

By contacting a placement agency, you can get the answers you need so you can focus on the emotional task ahead. Knowledgeable care coordinators will discuss the pros and cons of the many senior living options available and save you time by sharing their expertise, walking you through the process and, usually, driving you to tour appropriate housing choices.They typically offer their services at no charge to families.

Placement agencies are also a valuable resource for

issues beyond that of housing. Many agencies provide in-home and supplemental care for seniors remaining at home. They can help you downsize and move your family member to a new residence. They work with real estate agents and estate sale companies and can help you find elder-law attorneys, VA benefit assistance, Medicaid experts, medical supply companies and more.

Most families are unaware of available resources and don’t know where to begin. Information is abundant, sometimes conflicting and generally overwhelming to those unfamiliar with the system and its jargon. Being in crisis mode often results in poor decisions, even with the best intentions. Contact a placement agency today for answers to your questions and help navigating the maze of senior care services so you can concentrate on what’s most important – your loved one.

Michele Fronzaglia, owner of Always Best Care Senior Services, South Charlotte & surrounding

South Carolina’s one-stop resource for senior housing options, in-home care and a network of senior services, can be reached at 704-243-9344.

Your Loved One Can No Longer Live Alone:

Now What?By Michele Fronzaglia


Home Care Services Non-Medical Home Care for all ages

Natalia K. Feely, RN(803) 810-2060 office | (803) 810-6017 fax

www.tlcyourway.com


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Exercise Your Brain

Figure out what the capitalized words in Column A have in common. Then decide which one of the three lowercased words in Column B belongs with the capitalized ones.

Column A Column B

DESSERTS towerDIAPER devilSTRAP exitsREWARDSTARSTINK

Here is a set of letters that makes no sense: ogays

If you insert a D at the beginning of the set and then insert a word space and another D within the set, you will get a two-word phrase that is an English expression: dog days

Figure out the letter that, used twice (once after a word space), will make a two-word English expression out of each of the following sets of letters.

astoodumboetoubleatetudykillserriblewos

Answers: Fast foodJumbo jetDouble dateStudy skillsTerrible twos

Answers: The word from Column B that belongs with the words in Column A is devil. Like the six words in Column A, devil spelled backward makes another English word.

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Coordinating Long-Term Care and Veteran’s Benefits

By Peggy R. Hoyt, J.D., M.B.A.and Randy C. Bryan, J.D.

When planning for long-term care it is important you are aware of all of the benefits to which you or your loved ones may be entitled. Most of us know if we meet the asset and income requirements, we may qualify for Medicaid. But, ask an elderly Veteran if they are aware they may be eligible for a pension from the Veteran’s Administration and they will tell you they are not eligible because they were not injured in a war or they did not serve long enough. This is a common misconception, which keeps many Veterans, and their spouses, from applying for benefits they earned by serving our country. There are now over 25 million U.S. Veterans eligible for some type of VA benefits, many of whom have no idea these pension benefits exist and their local VA office won’t tell them about it.

Benefits are often available from more than one source. When the time comes for you or a loved one to apply for long-term care benefits, it is up to you to apply for all the benefits to which you are entitled and to coordinate benefits like VA and Medicaid, to receive the maximum amount. In order to qualify for benefits, assets are often transferred. In many cases these transfers are appropriate but sometimes transfers may lead to periods of ineligibility for Medicaid purposes. Further, some portions of VA benefits may be countable as income for Medicaid, when other portions may not. It is important you understand the differences in the rules of the various benefit programs so you are able to receive your benefits when you need them. With a little professional planning, you may be able to receive benefits that make a significant difference in the amount and type of care you receive. To avoid missing out on benefits to which you or your loved ones may be entitled, meet with your financial advisor and elder law professional and protect yourself, your future and your family.

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For Max Cleland, care giving is the difference between life and death. He is talking about the 24/7 lifeline three caregivers provide for his father, a 96 year old WWII veteran who was stationed at Pearl Harbor when it was attacked on December 7th, 1941.

“A loyal caregiver is indispensable. My father lives in the same home he has owned for 65 years,” Mr. Cleland told me in a phone interview. “I want to make sure that he can remain there. Caring for my father is the most important issue in my life.”

Max Cleland has dealt with major issues all of his life. He served his country in Vietnam, attaining the rank of Captain and was awarded the Silver Star and the Bronze Star for valorous action in combat. Cleland nearly lost his life in Vietnam; as a result, he is a multiple paraplegic. Forging on with determination, he became a public servant in 1971 and has held several significant positions in his distinguished career, including serving in the United States Senate, the Georgia state Senate, as Director of the Veteran’s Administration, and as Secretary of State for Georgia.

“I have three homes,” he jokes, “one in Washington, D.C., one in Georgia and one on Delta.” Because of his continued dedication to public service, Cleland cannot always be in Lithonia to over see the personal

care of his father, a problem for so many working adults who are caregivers. “Finding someone who is compatible and positive is a challenge. What is needed is not “help”, he said, “but, to use a military term, HEP – a High Energy Projectile. Caregivers are special people who are there when we are most vulnerable.”

As an amputee, Max Cleland credits his family, friends and staff for their care and support. But his focus is not on himself. His experiences with caring giving, first for his late mother and now for his father, shape his commitment to President Obama’s urge for Healthcare Reform to protect Americans from unfair practices, exorbitant rates and possible denial of health care coverage.

“As a society, we must recognize that America is aging. How will we pay for the growing costs of our care? Californians were shocked when their health insurance costs rose by 39%. I urge your readers to look at the President Obama’s proposed Health Insurance reform, which stresses the need for health insurance reform and will provide more security and stability to those who have health insurance, coverage for those who don’t, and will lower the cost of health care for our families, our businesses, and our government.”

An Interview with Max ClelandBy Suzanne Economopolus

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Caregiving for a VeteranBy Dr. Kenneth Ross D.C., J.D., P.A.

As a veteran of Vietnam, I returned home after two tours in country to find life some what different in the attitudes of those at home who never served in the armed forces. For me, the adjustment was not hard, but for many veterans the return home and adjustment can be a difficult road. Sometimes a painful one for those who had service connected disabilities as a result of the campaign they were involved in. Life is and will be a struggle for many, which in many cases puts a strain on their caregivers. The Department of Defense estimates that Afghan and Iraq war related traumatic brain injuries is 161,025, but other research by RAND puts that figure at 320,000. In addition, invisible mental wounds (post-traumatic stress disorder) also play a major concern for returning veterans. It is estimated that 300,000 service members have psychological wounds.

The word “Carer” or “caregiver” is used to refer to unpaid relatives or friends who support veterans with disabilities. The accepted definition of a caregiver is: “Someone whose life is in some way restricted by the need to be responsible for the care of someone who is mentally ill, mentally handicapped, physically disabled or whose health is impaired by sickness or old age.”

A 2007 survey on family caregivers found that most caregivers end up feeling more positive about their experiences than they thought they would before they took on the responsibility. While caregivers are often burdened by high out-of-pocket costs in caring for an individual, nonetheless:

1. 60% called the experience very or extremely rewarding

2. 54% formed a strong bond with the individual for whom they were rendering care

3. 60% reported improvement in the quality of their relationships with the person they were caring for.

4. 68.7% said they enjoyed the tasks associated with care giving

5. The amount of satisfaction was directly related to the type of disease from which the care recipient suffers.

More then ¾ of all caregivers are female and range in age 35-59. The other ¼ of all male caregivers are 60 and older. More then 50 million people provide care for chronically ill, disabled or aged family members during any given year. Thirty percent of family care givers for seniors are themselves aged 65 or over. Caregivers, no matter what the age offer companionship, conversation, meal preparation, light housekeeping, general assistance, personal care and sitter services just to name a few of the services.

The value of the services caregivers provide “free” is estimated to be over $306 billion a year and that is twice as much as is actually spent on homecare and nursing home services combined ($158 billion).

Stress associated with unsupported care of chronically ill family members may result in a condition commonly referred as caregiver’s syndrome. In the US about 50 million people are caregivers and without them our loved ones would be require permanent placement in institutions or health care facilities at a greater cost to society. The physical, emotional and financial consequences for family caregivers can be overwhelming without support. Until 2009 there was support, but not to any great extent for caregivers could get to help them in supporting veterans.

In 2009 the Senate passed the Veterans and Caregivers Support Bill with a vote of 98-0. The Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Services Act of 2009 contain provisions to provide:

1. Caregivers assistance to wounded veterans2. Telecommunications with VA doctors and

specialists for wounded veterans in rural areas3. Travel benefits for caregivers to travel to the

veterans hospital or rehab center4. Caregiver education, training and counseling5. Oversite of caregivers via home visits6. Reprise caregiving services7. National survey of Family Caregivers

The main focus on the bill is to provide better care for both veterans who have been wounded while serving since September 11, 2001, and the caregivers. As medical technology in combat has advanced, more soldiers are surviving after losing limbs or having serious injuries, but require ongoing care, for many for the rest of their lives.

There are also federal recovery coordinators, who can help caregivers make sense of the military’s medical resources.

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How do you find help for your loved one? By Seth Zamek, MHA, EMT

When considering hiring a caregiver to help with services in your home, make sure you know the facts. Being well-informed can save you money and protect you from potential legal problems. Below are six components of senior care to consider when evaluating whether to use an agency or hire a caregiver on your own for your loved one.

Concern #1: ServiceHire Caregiver on your own: You are responsible

for knowing what services are needed for your loved one and whether the caregiver is trained and skilled at providing those services.

Agency: The agency is responsible for making sure you get the right services from the right caregiver. They match caregivers to clients based on the skills needed and the personality of your loved one.

Concern #2: Taxes & Injuries Hire Caregiver on your own: You are responsible

for reporting and paying payroll taxes, social security, and worker’s compensation (in case of a work related injury in the home) for the caregiver. Failure to do so can result in penalties with extensive fines. If your hired caregiver should become injured while in your home, you would most likely be personally liable if your homeowner’s insurance policy doesn’t cover this.

Agency: The caregivers are employees of the agency—they are not independent contractors (1099 folks). You pay the agency directly, and they manage all taxes and expenses related to employment that are required by the state and federal governments. The agency carries workers compensation and liability insurance to cover risks related to their caregivers on your behalf.

Concern #3: SupervisionHire Caregiver on your own: You are

in charge and responsible for managing the caregiver’s performance.

Agency: They manage all of the employees and will perform unscheduled supervisory visits and handle all management issues.

Concern #4: Background CheckHire Caregiver on your own: You are responsible

for performing a background check. Neglecting to order and review a background check could place your loved one in danger.

Agency: All of the agency employees are screened through criminal background checks and license checks, and are required to provide the proper identification.

Concern #5: Hiring & SchedulingHire Caregiver on your own: You are responsible

for the interviewing and hiring process. You will also be responsible for scheduling. If a caregiver calls out or doesn’t show up, you will need to find their replacement (this can mean sometimes not having a caregiver at your loved ones home when they need it).

Agency: They have extensive experience on hiring compassionate, dependable and hardworking caregivers. They are also responsible for scheduling and ensuring reliable and consistent care. If a caregiver can’t make a “shift” the agency will take responsibility for ensuring another appropriate caregiver is there for your loved one.

Concern #6: TheftHire Caregiver on your own: You will be

responsible if the employee steals from you or your loved one.

Agency: Agencies should be insured and bonded. All of their employees are bonded.

Seth Zamek is the Owner/Executive Director of Senior Helpers of SC and can be reached at (803) 548-6766 or (888) 457-1293 toll free

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By Kevin L. Faulkenberry, LMSW

Indira Gandhi, the late Prime Minister of India, once stated “you cannot shake hands with a clenched fist.” This is just as true with family affairs as it is with international politics. If you work with the elderly population, you will likely interact with their family members at some point. What do you do when you encounter family members who have clenched fists? How do you help these family members make crucial decisions about the care of their aging parent?

Elder Mediation has grown as a practice within the last 20 years due mainly to the growing aging population and the complexities of family conflict that arise as a relative ages. Mediation is a process in which a mediator, acting as a neutral third party, facilitates communication between two parties who have a dispute. Elder Mediation, therefore, is mediation of any conflict that involves an elder, either directly or indirectly. Some of the most common family conflicts that arise as a relative ages deal with finances, legal matters, and living arrangements.

Families that decide to work with a mediator often do so to save time and money as well as to maintain civility and control within the decision-making process. Many families simply need help communicating at all, and a good mediator can assist families in identifying and overcoming long-seeded power struggles and relationship issues. In selecting a mediator for elder mediation, the best place to start is within a trusted network of support.

Ask other family members or friends if they know of a competent mediator. Elder-law attorneys often act as mediators, and many social workers and professional counselors have training in mediation. The local Area Agency on Aging is also a good place to obtain information about available mediation services. It is important to utilize someone who is not only knowledgeable about elder law but is also sensitive about family dynamics.

The mediation process should include the elder to the fullest extent possible. Growing older is all about maintaining dignity and control as long as possible, so families should be responsive to the needs of the older family member. Family members should expect to meet with the mediator for several sessions, including individual caucuses to ensure each party is fully heard and understood. Mediators often help draw up a contract or agreement that summarizes what is agreed upon as well.

Conflict is a part of every family, and a crisis will often magnify the differences and disagreements between siblings, no matter how old they are or how far apart they live. Caring for an aging parent should be characterized by cooperation, not conflict. Mediation is often helpful in turning clenched fists into a handshake.

Kevin and his wife Kay own the Mediation and Family Services Center in Rock Hill,

SC. They may be reached at (803) 366-2525 or at www.mediationandfamily.com

Elder Mediation

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By Brian Carney

In today’s economic environment, more people are considering or re-considering their living arrangements. I see movement from assisted living facilities back to home environments, movement into continuous care retirement communities, and families previously living independently coming together under one roof.

I often get asked what is the best environment and the answer depends on what is important to you and your family. The focus should be on the quality of life and the way you want to live life. What truly will keep you engaged in life? Is it being close to family? Is it having independence? Is it access to certain activities? With clarity around what is important to you, then you can begin to answer the question of what is best and begin to build support to keep you from having to spend time and focus on issues that aren’t important to you.

Many factors go into the ultimate decision of where to live and your living environment. Financial implications, medical care availability and social connection are all important factors. One factor that tends to be overlooked is the physical environment. People tend to disregard it in their plans, tending to think only about their current condition until a particular issue hits close to home. Those that look into the future and plan for contingencies are able to make the adaptations required more easily, less expensively and therefore are able to stay in the environment of their choosing longer. Planning for potential changes in access and availability are important. People also tend to underestimate the degree or the issues involved in adapting a space, or on the other extreme they get overwhelmed and don’t think solutions are available. Luckily today, there are solutions for overcoming most physical barriers in the home.

Having said that planning is best, even those that find themselves in an emergency situation, like my parents did, can find solutions to physical constraints these days. The good news is that more options exist today, the options are more

affordable, especially when compared to alternatives like assisted living, home help is becoming more available and the equipment is becoming more aesthetically pleasing. I like to say that the designers are taking over from the engineers, and more people are placing solutions in their homes.

Special mention should be made of adaptations required if someone is in a wheelchair or powerchair. These are especially tough situations for the caregiver. The desire to “make do” often overrides the concerns for caregivers until a caregiver is injured or debilitated. This is especially important in situations requiring a transfer where lifts should be used. Lifts now offered can be portable, semi-permanent or permanent depending on the need.

Ultimately it is about building a safe environment that reduces your risk. And you should reduce the risk for yourself, anyone you are taking care of and for anyone that is taking care of you or another loved one. One of my favorite clients was a retired insurance executive who lectured me as I first was introduced about why he needed a stair lift, citing studies on the cost of hospitalization in the event of a fall and the benefit of deferring any move out of his home to an assisted living environment. What many view as a significant expenditure, he viewed as a cheap insurance policy with a quick payback.

So how do you start to get help? It can be complex to contemplate the alternatives but you should start with someone focused on the home and who works with aging or disabled populations. Input from a contractor, someone with lift equipment expertise, therapists and care givers should all be part of the equation.

Remember though, it is about living life on your terms. So define that first and let the solutions all focus on taking the burden off the day-to-day so you can focus your time and energy on what is important to you and your family.

Brian Carney is the Owner of SILVER CROSS Charlotte, NC, a member of NARI (National

Association of the Remodeling Industry), and a BBB member. He is a provider of solutions to

home accessibility and mobility issues.

Don’t Let Physical Barriers Dictate Where and How You Live Your Life


Top 5 list of most common physical barriers in a home:

1. Stairs … getting from one main floor to another. Critical to maintaining connectiveness with in the house.

2. Elevated Mainfloors … in Charlotte most homes are built up on crawlspaces, we don’t like to dig down into our hard clay.

3. Thresholds … these can be as low as an inch, but depending on your condition can act like mountains.

4. Bath Access … with baths, getting into and out of the tub becomes problematic.

5. Bed Access … often overlooked, these can often be at an inappropriate height or transferring into or out of bed can be problematic, especially when tired or sleepy.

Most common solutionsfor those situations:

1. Stairs … residential elevators add value to the home but are expensive. Stair lifts are an affordable option for those in need of assistance.

2. Elevate Mainfloors … vertical platform lifts can lift you to the main level and can be cost-effective for a few steps. Ramps are also alternatives, although many people are surprised by the length of ramp required. Meeting ADA standards of a foot of ramp per inch of height adds up quickly!

3. Thresholds ... zero threshold modifications are ideal. If not feasible, threshold ramps now come in a variety of more attractive alternatives.

4. Bath Access … seated lifts in the bath that lower you are often overlooked. Walk-in tubs and adaptations are also possibilities. For those that like showers, modification for a walk-in shower are most appropriate. Also strategically placed garb bars are critical.

5. Bed Access … adjustments to the bed height through mattresses and box springs. Putting up grabbars

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“Wellness”… It’s a Way of Life!By Tony Fountain

Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC) across the country are highlighting the importance of “aging well” for seniors. Dedicated Wellness Programs improve the quality of life of each senior and/or client physically, psychologically, and spiritually by offering a purposeful fitness plan and life enriching programming that address individual health needs, quality of life, and to encourage successful aging.

From day-to-day, campus residents have the opportunity to enhance their well-being by choosing from a host of physical exercise classes, attending a lecture series, learning a new hobby, volunteering, developing their spiritual journey, and enjoying supportive relationships, as well as, selecting from healthy menu choices in various campus dining venues.

An effective Wellness Philosophy should be inter-woven into the daily fabric of lifestyle choices that covers various aspects of living:

1. Emotional: the awareness and understanding of one’s own thoughts and feelings and those of others. Emotionally well people recognize their worth, seek out opportunities to develop positive relationships, and have an enthusiastic attitude towards life while embracing the challenges it brings.

2. Environmental: both inside and outside, is the creation of and participation in safe and inviting surrounds. Environmentally well people seek interdependence and harmony through an active partnership with their environment.

3. Intellectual: is the engagement of mind through continuous learning opportunities. Intellectually well people actively participate in stimulating activities and use a variety of resources to expand their knowledge and skills.

4. Physical: is the demonstration of respect of one’s health and body. Physically well people make a commitment to maintain an active, fulfilling lifestyle by minimizing negative risky behavior, getting adequate rest and nutrition, and participating in physical activity.

5. Social: is the willingness to develop, maintain and appreciate relationships. Socially well people show concern for others, value friendships, respect diversity, and contribute to the overall well-being of the community in which they live.

6. Spiritual: is the personal commitment one has to God and/or the discovery of meaning and purpose in life. Spiritually well people live out their core values and beliefs and have an appreciation for that which cannot be explained. They strive for inner peace and serenity and respect individual differences.

7. Vocational: is the use of personal gifts, skills, interest, talents, and knowledge for the good of others, organizations, and communities. Vocationally well people actively seek to learn new skills and serve others with their abilities

Getting older doesn’t mean one must settle with uncontrollable outcomes, seniors are learning to make daily choices that will increase their vitality and happiness with life. One bit of advice, the younger you begin in making “wellness” choices, the more complete you will feel as you age.

Tony Fountain is the President/CEO of Westminster Towers in Rock Hill, South Carolina


TYVOLA SENIOR CENTER EVENTS FOR JUNE

“Charlotte Mecklenburg Senior Centers 4th Annual Golf Classic” - Held at Pine Island Country Club on Monday, June 21, 2010. $100 for Individual Golfers and $400 for a team of 4. There are opportunities for sponsorship. For more info or to register, please call Pat LeNeave at 704-817-5471.

“Hear USA Lecture and Screenings” - Hear USA on June 15, 2010 at 10:00am for a 30 minute talk about how and why hearing loss occurs, as well as related safety issues. Presentation will be followed by pass/fail hearing screenings, which will last about 3 minutes per person. FREE, pre-registration is encouraged. Call Caroline at 704-817-5462.

“Guest Speaker: Jonathan S. Frank, Attorney at Law” - June 22, 2010 at 10:30am, Jonathan S. Frank will be delivering a one hour talk on Living Wills, HIPAA, and Power of Attorney. Attendance is FREE. For more info, call Caroline at 704-817-5462

“Legal Document Review” - June 29 at 10:00am, the Law Offices of Jonathan S. Frank will be providing FREE 20 minute audits of Living Wills and Power of Attorney documents ONLY. These

audits are by appointment ONLY, and space is limited. Contact Caroline at 704-817-5462.

NORTH MECKLENBURG SENIOR CENTER CLASS AND ACTIVITY SCHEDULE

Easy Does It Strength Training Class This class is on-going. New comers welcome. 9:30am – 10:30am Mon and Wed. Member $16.00/month Non-Members $32.00/month

First Monday of the Month Birthday Bash 10:30am - Sing Along with Captain Conrad Sells then join us for our Birthday Bash Pot Luck Lunch at 11:30am Everyone invited. Bring a dish to share for the pot-luck luncheon. Those with the birthday of the month will be honored. Pre-register 704-892-4041- Free to all.

3. Knit/Crochet Club. Working on items for our Luau fundraiser on August 18. Will teach new comers. FREE Mondays at 1:00pm

4. Happy Feet Walking Club – This faithful group of walkers meets at Jetton Park Tuesdays at 9:30am at the Waterfront Hall. All levels of walkers are welcome. Call 704-892-4041 for more information. The paved walking trail is 1.4 miles long. Walk once, twice, or as many times as you want. A great way to meet new friends and stay fit as well. FREE Tuesdays at 9:30am

6. BINGO Join this fun group of folks as they exercise their minds and finger dexterity playing several varieties of this popular game. Two cards is the limit and we ask that you donate $2.00 per person to help with purchasing prizes, which you will get every time you win. Tuesdays at 1:00pm

Listings

Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program

(SHIIP)

11 South Boylan AvenueRaleigh, NC 27603

(800) 443-9354 (nationwide)(919) 807-6900

(919)807-6901 (fax)www.ncshipp.com

email: [email protected]

CouNCIl oN AgINg IN uNIoN CouNty

1401 Skyway DrivePo Box 185

Monroe, NC 28111A United Way Member Agency

www.coaunion.org | 704-292-1797

Senior Community Service Employment Program, an employment and training

program for 55+.

your Finances SimplifiedNancy H. Church, CPA

1509 Sterling RoadCharlotte, NC 28209tel: 704-338-7004Fax: 704-338-7005

Appointments Available: You Location. Your Schedule.

[email protected]

SuPPoRt ouR ADveRtISeRS!this magazine is made possible by the businesses advertised. Please mention you found their ad in the Charlotte Regional Caregiver Magazine.

www.sgcaregiver.com

For more Regional Caregiver informationCheck us out online...

Making Life Easier ForSeniors – Recuperating Patients – New Moms

Affordable, Non Medical In Home CareCompanions-CNAs

Caregivers are Screened, Bonded & InsuredAvailable hourly, daily, weekly, 24 hours, 7 days a week

Free In Home ConsultationServices Tailored To Your Needs:

• Bathing/Grooming • Dressing • Meal Preparation • Laundry • Light Housekeeping • Transportation

• Errands • Daily Visits • Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care • Activities • Companionship • Phone Check In

• Home Organization

164 Latitude Lane #101Lake Wylie, SC 29710www.hh.carolinas.com

803-831-9929 704-813-4789Shirley MacMillan, CSA

Documents

Charlotte Caregiver Magazine June July 2010