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March 2010 Issue

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www.sgcaregiver.com 1

2 Atlanta Regional Caregiver

To place an ad or listing, contact Atlanta Regional

Manager, Nita Stallard

[email protected]

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

We hear across the country that access to helpful information is the number one issue with Caregivers. I faced this recently when my 85-year old parents traveled this past holiday season to visit with my family. I did not know how they were going to fare going through airport security or going from the gate to baggage claim. When they were ready to go back home, how could I make sure they got safely from the curb to the gate? In the same vein, a few days later a friend who was vacationing out of town broke 6 ribs and his collarbone in a biking accident. He was unsure about how to fly with his injuries (and he needed a care giver). While enduring these tribulations, we learned that there are services available to resolve these issues. But you need to know where to go for the information. That is why we have added Resources Every Caregiver Should Know About to this issue.

Our mission is to provide information for caregivers for a variety of topics. If you have any helpful experiences that you would like to share with fellow readers, please contact me at: [email protected]. Soon we will be adding a new section on our website where readers can exchange helpful information and resources for caregivers so as to make all our lives easier.

We are growing this month and would like to welcome our newest region: Charlotte, NC. Our plans are to expand across the country.

Mark Shekerow

Publisher

Atlanta 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.

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.

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MMore and more Americans are concerned about their prescription costs - they are uninsured; their employers reduced benefit coverage and raised deductibles and copayments; coverage has been limited to generic drugs; employers have instituted high deductible plans; many more seniors have reached the “donut” – where seniors do not have coverage under Part D Medicare RX Plans and have to pay 100% of the drugs; and changes in what drugs are covered under their RX Plans and many more reasons not stated here. The growing cost on Americans in reference to their need for prescriptions has caused them to search for solutions.

What are Americans doing? They are turning to the Internet and searching the web to try to find lower cost of drugs through a Prescription Discount Plan. When researching the web each person must have in mind a goal, “find the most value!”. In order to find the Prescription Discount Plan with the most value there are a number of issues that must be evaluated. Those issues are:

A. Free is Not Free! Don’t assume, because you found a prescription discount card that you can download for free, that it is going to provide you the lowest cost for your prescriptions. You are paying for the cost of the card through the increased cost you pay for your prescriptions compared to other prescription cards you could have selected. The increased cost added to your prescription cost – that they will assure you has been discounted – is in the form of a portion of the payment for the prescription being paid to the issuer of the card every time you fill a prescription. It could be in the form of a rebate for a brand drug you had filled and that amount is paid to the card issuer. These arrangements and others will never be disclosed to the consumer.

B. Medication Cost! Make sure you research each prescription and the exact strength and quantity compared to your existing prescription. That feature should be available on the prescription site you are evaluating. Also, make sure that you have an option available to purchase your prescription at a retail pharmacy or through mail order.

You need to determine the following: 1. Is the prescription on the web site the

exact same as your prescription? 2. Is the prescription cost guaranteed? 3. Is the prescription produced in the

United States? 4. Are there generic alternatives for the same

brand prescription?C. Pharmacy Search! Always use your zip code to

determine where there is a participating pharmacy that is convenient to where you live. You should look for local pharmacies as well as national chains.

D. Determine Where Your Drugs Are Coming From! There are prescription drug websites that are located in other countries and the prescription drugs they ship could possibly come from countries that DO NOT HAVE the same manufacturing requirements for quality control that the United States. Please make sure you understand what you are buying when you buy it.

Summary: The phase, “Consumer Beware” is most appropriate in the area of Online Prescriptions. There are some excellent websites and there are more that are not. Do your research! There are numerous advantages for consumers in need of reducing their prescription drug costs. Researching the web for the prescription discount drug plan that meets your needs and lowers your prescription costs is very important. It can be accomplished.

Martin Hadelman is president of www.nicheprescriptions.com. You may contact him at [email protected]

ONLINE PRESCRIPTIONS“What to Do?”By Martin Hadelman

A

4 Atlanta Regional Caregiver4

Ten Great ThingsAbout Being a Caregiver

From the Center for Positive Aging

Being a caregiver is not for sissies. It is a demanding job with many responsibilities and no rest for the weary: the day ends, and the next day you start again. It is easy to feel overwhelmed.

But don’t let that stop you from enjoying the positive side of what you do. There are great things about being a caregiver, and here are just ten out of many:

1. It means so much to my loved one to be part of our family. Being a caregiver means you are making sacrifices, but you are also receiving the gratitude of someone who loves you.

2. Caring for our loved one has pulled our family together. Having an extended family living together teaches all of us the important lessons in getting along with others.

3. We can still tell jokes. Enjoy this time to share laughter. Humor is the greatest stress relief there is.

4. We can still share dreams. Take comfort in sharing with your loved one the dreams and wishes you could never tell anyone else.

5. I’m teaching my children how to care for others. Selflessness is learned by example.

6. By caring for my loved one, I’m learning how important it is to take care of myself. It is not wrong to let the act of caregiving help you understand that independence is a gift.

7. This is the opportunity to build a better relationship. Heal old emotional

wounds and let go of past grievances. Perhaps this is a time to have the relationship you always wanted.

8. I’m learning how much support I really have. Learn to let others help. Your friends, your neighbors and your community are there for comfort and support. Let their support be a source of gratitude, not guilt.

9. My children have a chance to really know their grandparents. Okay, it may take some time…but one day, your children will understand the value of knowing their closest love ones personally. The need for elders in our society is great; there are lessons only age can teach.

10. Your loved one’s beautiful smile. It can be the most beautiful sight in the world.

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As a primary caregiver, you are constantly juggling activities for your loved ones, family and yourself. The constant balancing of activities can be stressful. Stress causes certain hormones to be released that may cause cravings for high sugar, high fat foods. These high calorie foods can have a temporary calming effect on the body; however, over eating these foods can lead to an increased amount of fat being stored. Excess weight is associated with chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes.

Although you may take the time to make sure that your loved one eats properly, it is also important to ensure good nutrition for yourself to help reduce stress and weight gain. One way to ensure healthy

eating is to keep healthy foods handy. For example, place a bowl of apples and bananas (or any other fruit that does not require refrigeration) on the kitchen counter, and keep washed, bite sized vegetables, almonds or other nuts, low fat cheese sticks and yogurt in the refrigerator. They will not only satisfy your immediate need to eat, but they will also offer important nutrients.

It is important to learn what is triggering your overeating and understand how to address it in a healthy way. Try to find other ways to relieve stress such as talking with a friend, keeping a journal or taking a brisk walk. Remember, it is important to listen to your body and take care of it for both you and your loved one.

Nutrition, Stress and the Caregiver

By Jennifer Mazarredo, RD, LD/N Registered Dietitian Central Florida Regional Hospital

6 Atlanta Regional Caregiver

OExercise Your BrainThere’s an old saying, ‘if you don’t use it, you lose it’. Studies have shown that challenging your brain helps keep it nimble. Try out these puzzles to exercise yours.

Answers: Dog Bark, Cat Meow, Snake Hiss, Donkey Bray

Pattern 1: Add 2, add 1, add 2, add 1 Missing numbers 14, 17, 19Pattern 2: The number in the middle of the series represent the number of letters it take to spell the number. Missing six numbers 12, 6, 14, 8, 16, 7

Find the pattern in this sequence of numbers. What numbers are missing?

2 4 5 7 8 10 11 13 __ 16 __ __

What are the next six numbers in this series?

0, 4, 2, 3, 4, 4, 6, 3, 8, 5, 10, 3

Hint: It’s not just the increase of the even numbers. The number following it relates in appearance.

The following pairs of words can be unscrambled to make two words that go together, like “this & that.” All pairs follow the same theme. Can you determine what they say?

DARK BOG = ___ ___ ___ + __ __ __ __

COW MEAT = ___ ___ ___ + __ __ __ __

ASHES SINK = __ __ __ __ __ + __ __ __ __

BRANDY YOKE = __ __ __ __ __ __ __ + __ __ __ __

O

SHARED HOUSING RESOURCE FOR HOME OWNERS AND TENANTS

We match tenants who need a home with homeowners that have a room to spare. We also match tenants who will

provide services for the homeowner in exchange for reduced or free rent. We are HOUSEMATE MATCH, a United Way funded agency, the “matchmakers” for your housing needs.

Confidential interviews scheduled on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Call Lynne Dyckman at 678.812.3729, log onto

www.housematematch.org or email [email protected]

www.sgcaregiver.com 7

5755 North Point Parkway, Suite 56 * Alpharetta, GA 30022

Physical Therapy | Massage Therapy | Personal TrainingWellness Classes | Educational Support Groups

Amita GuptaClinical Director, PT, MCSP, CEASp: 678-528-1652c: [email protected] Therapy

Forum

For Better Health – Adopt an Attitude of Gratitude

By Peggy R. Hoyt

One of the wonderful things about life is you can control your attitude—the way you think and feel. There may be times when you think you “can’t”—but don’t get caught in a self-fulfilling prophesy! Instead, choose an attitude of gratitude. As the Nike commercials say, “Just do it!” Adopting an attitude of gratitude and appreciating even the smallest blessings will increase feelings of joy and positive energy that come with appreciation. As joy and energy increase, so does your overall well-being and health.

Another way to improve overall health is to seek out opportunities for spiritual, mental and emotional self-improvement. But where do you start? Consider this simple exercise—start a gratitude journal. Everyday write down three things you are grateful for. You can appreciate the sunshine, a clean house, the birds chirping in the yard, the smile of a friend or grandchild. The point is—find something you can be grateful for—everyday. Once you adopt this habit, your attitude of gratitude can’t help but make your world a better place. Invite family and friends to participate in this daily practice, even if it’s just to tell you what they are most grateful for. If you feel a bad mood coming on, switch gears immediately and seek out those people, things and events you can appreciate.

Research done by University of California Davis positive psychology professor Robert Emmons indicates, “Grateful people take better care of themselves and engage in more protective health behaviors like regular exercise, a healthy diet, (and) regular physical examinations.” He has found grateful people tend to be more optimistic, a characteristic that boosts the immune system. As a result, it is possible to enjoy improved overall health by simply being more grateful.

Don’t be surprised if your attitude or gratitude attracts others to you—like bugs to a light bulb. People like to be around positive people who love and appreciate themselves and everything around them. The more time you spend appreciating, the less time you have for complaining. The end result . . . an attitude of gratitude that will improve your ability to get through anything!

To learn more about gratitude and its positive effect on your life, read “Thank Everybody for Everything – Grow Your Life and Business with Gratitude” and incorporate “Gratitude Expressions – a Five Year Journal” into your daily routine. For more information visit ThankEverybodyforEverything.com. Have a grateful day!

8 Atlanta Regional Caregiver

From Gen X to theSandwich GenerationWhen It May Be Time To Seek Some Help For Your Aging Parents

KBy Lisa Machado

Kate is rushing out of the office on a weeknight, hoping to get her daughter to soccer practice on time. But, before soccer, she needs to cook dinner and help her other child with homework. Just as she hits the road, her cell phone rings. It’s the pharmacy telling her that the two prescriptions her father needs are ready for pick up. He needs them today. She will deliver those with the extra dinner she makes for him. As she starts the car, her blackberry reminds her that she needs to participate in a global conference call early this evening. Although her family is most supportive, there will be chaos in the home again tonight.

Kate is among many Americans now referred to as the “sandwich generation.” This term refers to adults with families of their own who find themselves caring for their parents as well. According to numbers from the National Family Caregiver Survey, 44 percent of Americans between the ages of 45 and 55 have aging parents or in-laws while also having children under the age of 21.

Many families are dealing with the stress of running two households. On a daily basis, these adult children are consistently forced into choosing between the needs of their immediate family and a deep desire to help an aging parent, who once so lovingly cared for them.

Some sandwich generation children choose to have their parents move in. Others adult children are purchasing homes with new floor plans to accommodate an aging population, planning for the day the Mom or Dad (or both) may want to or need to move in.

Some sandwich children view this as a sacrifice. Some view it as an obligation. And some do it without even thinking twice about it. Either way there is much emotional reward. After a parent passes, there is a peace of mind, knowing that their parent was surrounded by family during their final days on earth.

But quite honestly, it does not always go that smoothly. Caring for an aging or ill parent is a full-time job that can take its toll on the most caring and compassionate person. An

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unsupportive spouse, annoyed grandchildren or an unexpected family event can gradually, or suddenly, add a dangerous level of stress to even the best of functioning households.

Families should not wait too long before at least inquiring about help. Licensed home care agencies are often the perfect solution. Agencies provide professional caregivers, and as required by Georgia home care license requirements, are trained in personal care relieving the families as a part time or full time solution.

Adult children who are caring for their parents, caring for their children and who even may also be even trying to hold onto their job, should not feel guilty about seeking some assistance. It may be just what they need to organize the current events of their lives and to assist with enjoying what could be the final years of their parents’ lives.

Lisa Machado is a Certified Senior Advisor. She and and her husband, Mario, own Visiting Angels of Alpharetta.

Home Care Agencies Can:

1. Provide certified caregivers. A professional agency with certified caregivers will be able to identify changes in the care recipient and will not panic when an emergency arises.

2. Provide overnight care. Alzheimer care recipients often have their days and nights reversed – draining a family caregiver.

3. Provide day time care. A daytime caregiver can do daily tasks which allow the adult child to visit and talk with the parent after work relieving the pressure of “doing.”

4. Provide respite care. Intermittent assistance can be provided so a tethered adult child can periodically get out of the house to recharge the batteries.

5. Handle difficult transitions: When it is no longer safe for Mom or Dad to drive or there needs to be additional personal care provided, a professional caregiver knows what to say and how to say it, assisting with the entire process.

6. Facilitate one-on-one care: Professional caregivers can be provided to assist in a hospital or assisted living facility for situations requiring bedside and one-on-one assistance. For example, continent care recipients are often frustrated that they cannot get the assistnace they need during the night to get to the bathroom in time.

10 Atlanta Regional Caregiver

H

How & Where to Use Home Care ServicesBy Phil Koch

“Home Health Care” usually refers to companies/agencies providing Skilled Nursing and Therapy Services either in Retirement Centers and/or private residences. They offer payment options which usually include traditional Medicare, Medicaid and some “in network” large private insurance companies. Some will even provide private-duty (private-pay) RN or LPN care. “Home Care” companies differ from the above in that they offer “non-skilled” care such as Home Companions, Home Health Aides and Certified Nursing Assistants (ie, CNA’s).

Home Care Agencies provide assistance with ADL’s (activities of daily living) for people in their private residences and/or retirement communities such as senior apartments, independent living, assisted living, and even skilled nursing communities. Some of the larger companies even provide care in hospitals. For example, our company is frequently asked to assist patients in a hospital setting - usually in cases involving walking dementia and/or combative issues. Larger home care

agencies, such as my company, are often asked to be either a “Sole” or “Preferred” provider for many of the medium to large Retirement Communities within the area.

Certified Nursing Assistants are used when a lot of “hands-on-care” is needed for a client. This is an important point to mention since many “Home Care Agencies” are not licensed by the DHHS (Dept. of Health & Human Services) to do hands-on personal care. Always check this by asking for a copy of the Home Care Agency’s state license for “In-Home” Care.

There are many payment options for “Home Care” companies. While Home Care Agencies are legally unable to accept Medicare or Private (in network)

Insurance policies, they do accept various forms of Private Pay settlements including check, cash, credit cards etc. Some Home Care Agencies in local NC counties also accept Medicaid and CAP (Community Alternative Program). In addition, many of them will accept payment directly or indirectly from Long Term Care companies and the VA for “Home Companion” services.

A good way to find a reputable Home Care agency is to ask referral sources (social workers, discharge planners, doctors, etc.) who they would recommend. In addition, I strongly recommend going with a Georgia state licensed (DHHS) company even if you don’t need CNA care yet. By going with a licensed “in-home” care agency, you have the alternative of staying with that same Home Care agency if your loved ones move to that next level of care – often with the same caregiver; providing he/she is a CNA. Check with local members of the NPDA (National Private Duty Association) in Georgia for a list of local

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in-home care agencies in your region. Finally, you will want to consider going either with a nationally recognized home care agency or a local smaller company.

Phil Koch is the Pres/Owner of one of the largest Home Care Agencies in the Charlotte Metro Market covering 9 counties in NC (including Mecklenburg and Union counties) and another 3 counties in SC.

911 PREP KitTM is an information kit designed for medical emergencies, to make sure all medical professionals have the information they need.

$14.95 + $3 S&H

Mention this ad and receive 10% discountFor more information visit www.sgcaregiver.com

12 Atlanta Regional Caregiver

The CAReGIVeR’S hANDBook - www.stallgeriatrics.com/caregiving/caregivershandbook.html Formatted by Robert S. Stall, M.D. Read entire book online

heAlING Well - www.healingwell.com A guide to diseases, disorders and chronic illnesses with an excellent listing of resources for Alzheimer’s disease as well as other related dementias.

ADMINISTRATIoN oN AGING - www.aoa.govResources for seniors, including research information.

DePT. of elDeR AffAIRS - www.state.fl.us/doeaThis website contains valuable resources for seniors living in the state of Florida.

elDeR CARe oNlINe - www.ec-online.net/ A beacon for people caring for aging loved ones. Whether you are caring for a spouse, parent, relative or neighbor, an online community where supportive peers and professionals help you improve quality of life for yourself and your elder.

elDeR WeB - www.elderweb.com Over 4,000 reviewed links to finance, law, housing, health, policy, statistics and research information.

NIh SeNIoR heAlTh - www.nihseniorhealth.gov Features information on Seniors from the National Institute of Health

The elDeRCARe loCAToR - www.eldercare.govA public service of the U.S. Administration on Aging. The Eldercare Locator is your first step for finding local agencies, in every U.S. community, that can help older persons and their families access home and community-based services like transportation, meals, home care, and caregiver support services. To begin, enter zip code, county or city on the site or call us at 800-677-1116.

Aging ServiceselDeRCARe loCAToR - www.eldercare.govThe first step to finding resources for older adults in any U.S. community. 800-677-1116

Americans With Disabilities U.S. DePT. of lABoR (Dol) - DisabilityInfo.govA comprehensive online resource that provides quick and easy access to information for people with disabilities, including government programs on benefits, civil rights, community life, housing, health,

technology and transportation. 800-FED-INFO (800-333-4636)

NAT’l DISABIlITY RIGhTS NeTWoRk (NDRN) - www.napas.org/aboutus/consumer.htm#resNDRN is a membership organization for the federally-mandated Protection and Advocacy (P&A) Systems and Client Assistance Programs (CAP) for individuals with disabilities. The Network provides local contacts for information and assistance. 202-408-9514

Assisted LivingOlder persons who want to find out more about the assisted living option can start by contacting their local area agency on aging (AAA). Contact the U.S. Administration on Aging’s Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 or visit www.eldercare.gov to find the AAA office closest to you.

ASSISTeD lIVING feDeRATIoN of AMeRICA - www.alfa.org or email [email protected] Waples Mill Road, Suite 150Fairfax, VA 22030. 703-691-8100

CoNSUMeR CoNSoRTIUM oN ASSISTeD lIVING - www.ccal.org2342 Oak St., Falls Church, VA 22046703-533-8121

NATIoNAl CeNTeR foR ASSISTeD lIVING - www.ncal.org/consumer/index.cfm201 L St., NW, Washington, DC 20005202-842-4444

AMeRICAN ASSoCIATIoN of hoMeS AND SeRVICeS foR The AGING - www.aahsa.org2519 Connecticut Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20008-1520. 202-783-2242

The AMeRICAN SeNIoRS hoUSING ASSoCIATIoN - www.seniorshousing.org5100 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Suite 307 Washington, DC 20016. 202-237-0900

Home ModificationelDeRCARe loCAToR - www.eldercare.gov/eldercare/Public/resources/fact_sheets/home_mod.aspThe Eldercare Locator offers a fact sheet on the full range of home modification issues and resources, including how to determine needs and identify costs and where to go for additional information.800-677-1116

Resources Every Caregiver Should Know About

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NATIoNAl ASSoCIATIoN of hoMe BUIlDeRS (NAhB) - www.nahb.org/directory.aspx?sectionID=686&directoryID=188NHAB provides a web-based directory of Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists. The directory enables consumers to find remodelers or contractors who specialize in modifying homes to make them safer and more comfortable for older adults. 800-368-5242

NAT’l ReSoURCe CeNTeR oN SUPPoRTIVe hoUSING AND hoMe MoDIfICATIoN (NRCShhM) - www.homemods.orgA clearinghouse of information and materials that promotes aging-in-place and independent living for adults of all ages and abilities. 213-740-1364 ReBUIlDING ToGeTheR - www.rebuildingtogether.orgA national volunteer organization focused on the home repair and improvement needs of lower income homeowners. A search tool is available to identify local assistance. 800-4-REHAB-9 (800-473-4229)

Housing OptionsADMINISTRATIoN oN AGING (AoA) – U.S. DePT. of heAlTh AND hUMAN SeRVICeS (DhhS) - www.aoa.gov/eldfam/housing/housing.aspThe online “Elders and Families” section offers a quick reference for older persons and their caregivers, on housing choices and a variety of aging-related topics. 202-619-0724

AARP - www.aarp.org/families/housing_choicesProvides an assessment tool to help determine housing needs for older adults, as well as additional information and materials. 888-OUR-AARP 888-687-2277

U.S. DePT. of hoUSING & URBAN DeVeloPMeNT (hUD) - www.hud.gov/groups/seniors.cfmProvides a range of information to help older adults make informed choices about housing options and financial assistance resources. 202-708-1112

Legal AssistanceAMeRICAN BAR ASSoCIATIoN (ABA) CoMMISSIoN oN lAW AND AGING - www.abanet.org/aging/resources/statemap.shtmlThe ABA Commission on Law and Aging provides a listing of state-wide resources available to help older persons with law-related issues. 202-662-8690

offICe of fAIR hoUSING AND eqUAl oPPoRTUNITY (fheo) – U.S. DePT. of hoUSING AND URBAN DeVeloPMeNT (hUD) - www.hud.gov/offices/fheo/index.cfmThis office administers and enforces federal laws and establishes policies that ensure that all Americans have equal access to the housing of their choice. It provides information about housing rights for older adults and for persons with disabilities. 202-708-1112

Mortgage FinancingAARP - www.aarp.org/money/revmortAARP offers information on the range of issue and concerns regarding reversed mortgages, including a guide to compare options and a quick mortgage loan calculator. 888-OUR-AARP (888-687-2277)

National Reverse Mortgage leaders Association - www.reversemortgage.orgProvides information and materials to help consumers understand reverse mortgages, determine when they are a good option and find a local lender for assistance.

Nursing HomesMeDICARe - www.medicare.gov/NhCompareNursing Home Compare is a tool that provides detailed information about the past performance of every Medicare and Medicaid-certified nursing home in the country. 1-800-MEDICARE (800-633-2273)

The NATIoNAl CITIzeNS’ CoAlITIoN foR NURSING hoMe RefoRM (NCCNhR) - www.nccnhr.orgProvides guidance in selecting a quality nursing home and protecting residents’ rights. 202-332-2275

NATIoNAl SeNIoR CITIzeNS lAW CeNTeR (NSClC) - www.nsclc.org/publications/index_htmlThe guide, Baby Boomer’s Guide to Nursing Home Care, explains the many laws protecting nursing home residents and gives practical advice on how residents and their families can obtain the best nursing home care possible. NAT’l CeNTeR oN SeNIoR TRANSPoRTATIoN - www.seniortransportation.netThe Nation’s go-to resource for senior transportation information, research, and development is administered by Easter Seals, Inc. in partnership with the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging (n4a), through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Transit Administration, and with guidance from the U.S. Administration on Aging.

14 Atlanta Regional Caregiver

health, life & Retirement BenefitsCindy [email protected]

PRoDUCTS & SeRVICeS

CenterBridge Solutions, llCfinancial, Administrative & organization ServicesCaroline Magrish Deren678-360-3047 [email protected]

Genesis elevator CompanyTracy M. Arntzenoffice 770-423-1095cell 678-910-5681www.genesiselevator.com

Janeen MichelleProfessional Makeup [email protected] Beauty Becomes You foundation Affiliate

Gail Posey, Certified PedorthistAdvanced Diabetic SolutionsDirect: [email protected]

Events & Screenings

NoRTh fUlToN hoSPITAl A WoMAN of heART CeleBRATIoN

Thursday, 2/18 from 5:30 - 7 pm at North fulton hospital. Celebrate heart Month with a series of heart healty cooking demonstrations, a fashion show and a presentation focused on women’s health. fRee but registration is required.

50+ heAlTh exPo

friday, 2/26 from 9 am - 1 pm at the Alpharetta Campus of Georgia State University. Screenings to include blood pressure, bone density, total cholesterol, glucose and more. fRee but registration is required for some screenings.

Support GroupsDIABeTeS SUPPoRT GRoUP

Third Monday of every month, 7:30 pm, Classroom C. Call Joe Mengoni at 770-889-7577 for more information.

STRoke & TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY SUPPoRT GRoUPS

All at 1 pm in Suite 100 of the 2500 Medical office Building; call 770-751-2650 for more details

STRoke: Second Tuesday of every month

TBI: fourth Tuesday of every month

CoMBINeD STRoke AND TBI: first Tuesday of every month

fAMIlY GRoUP foR STRoke AND TBI: Third Tuesday of every month

INSURANCe

Sue Wilson, RN, MBA/hAS Wilson Benefits Group, llCDirect line: 678-938-9092www.swilsonbenefitsgroup.com

Listings

Research has shown that drumming reduces stress and boosts the immune system. Bolton believes that drumming with others is enlivening. It brings a sense of peace and harmony, reconnecting oneself with the power and wisdom of the life force within.

Iris Bolton has been conducting drumming circles for the past two decades. She initially studied drumming with the Lakota Indians in Canada, and apprenticed with Don Oscar Miro-Quesada, A Shaman and Ceremonialist from Peru. More recently she has worked with Carlos Sauer, Brazilian Shamanic Healer.

In her drumming circles she uses Native American hand drums, pow wow drums, rattles and shakers. She invites participants to feel the vibrations and energy connecting their own heart beat to the heart beat of the earth.

Senior Drumming Event

1000 Applewood Drive, Roswell, GA 30076 Main 770-594-4600 | www.chambrelatroswell.com

For more info call 770-594-4611

March 4th

7 pm

Enjoy free admission

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Jewish family and Career Services 770-677-9300

Georgia Council for hearing Impaired 404-292-5312 (voice and TTY)

Tax Aid Program & Driver Safety Info line (AARP) 888-227-7669

hoSPICe SeRVICe CoMPlAINTS/ISSUeS

office of Regulatory Services, home health hotline 800-326-0291

VISITING ANGelS

North AtlantaVisiting Angels of Alpharetta2475 NorthWinds Parkway, Suite 200 Alpharetta, GA 30009Also serving Milton, Woodstock and Canton 678-277-9930

Visiting Angels of Roswell 500 Sun Valley Drive, B-4Roswell, GA 30076Also serving Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, and Johns Creek770-573-7817

Central AtlantaVisiting Angels of Buckhead3525 Piedmont Road7 Piedmont Center Suite 300Atlanta, GA 30305Also serving Atlanta, Decatur, Vinings404-358-5877

South AtlantaVisiting Angels of fayetteville110 Habersham DriveFayetteville, GA 30214Serving Clayton, Coweta, Fayette and Henry Counties678-817-4200 East AtlantaVisiting Angels of Powder Springs5200 Dallas Hwy, Ste 200 PMB 302Powder Springs, GA 30127Also serving Dallas, Kennesaw, Austell and Marietta 770-222-7388

WeBSITeS

Admin. on Aging www.aoa.gov

Admin. on Aging www.eldercare.gov

AgeWise Connection www.agewiseconnection.com

Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services www.medicare.govNational Institute on Aging, National Institute on health www.nia.nih.gov

Senior Web portal site, sponsored by first.gov www.seniors.gov

Social Security Administration www.ssa.gov

U.S. government’s official web portal www.firstgov.gov

hoMe-DelIVeReD MeAl PRoGRAMS

Cherokee County Senior Services 770-345-5312

Clayton County Senior Services 770-603-4050

Cobb County Senior Services 770-528-5364

Dekalb County office of Senior Affairs 770-322-2950

Douglas Senior Services 770-489-3100

fayette Senior Services, Inc. 770-461-0813

fulton County office of Aging 404-730-6000

Gwinnett County Senior Services 678-377-4150

henry County Senior Citizens Services 770-288-6975

Rockdale County Senior Services 770-922-4633

Angel food Ministries Program 888-819-1745 or 770-267-7015 www.angelfoodministries.com

helPfUl oRGANIzATIoNS

American Cancer Society 770-814-0123

American Diabetes Association 404-320-7100

American heart and Stroke Association 770-952-1316

American Parkinson’s Disease Association 404-728-6552

American Red Cross 404-876-3302

Arthritis foundation, Georgia Chapter 800-933-7023

Atlanta Alliance on Developmental Disabilities 404-881-9777

Brain Injury Association of Georgia (404) 712-5504

Brain and Spinal Injury Trust fund Commission 404-651-5112

Blind and low Vision Services of North Georgia 770-432-7280

Catholic Charities, Inc. 404-881-6571

Center for the Visually Impaired 404-875-9011

For details go to the website www.apdageorgia.orgOr call 404-325-2020

Driving Parkinson’s AwayAmerican Parkinson Disease Association Georgia Chapter

Enjoy a round of golf and support Parkinson’s disease research, public awareness and the Respite Programs

provided by the Georgia Chapter – APDA.

What: Saturday Night - Gala Dinner (Cocktails, Dinner, Live and Silent Auction)

When: March 13 & 15, 2010 Monday Noon Tee Time - Golf Tournament and Awards Dinner

Where: Smoke Rise Country Club 4900 Chedworth Drive Stone Mountain, GA

Why: To benefit the American Parkinson Disease Association in Georgia.