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BOOMERS AND SENIORS LEAD THE WAY IN VOLUNTEERISM
SeniorVoice
WESTCHESTER
WINTER 2020-2021
S o u p s a n d S t ew s
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Contents WINTER 2020-2021
24 26 30
features and stories columns and departments
24 volunteerism: seniors leading the way 11 community: yonkers connects
26 volunteerism: neighbors feeding neighbors 12 worth noting
30 comfort soup and stew recipes for winter 14 legal talk: avoiding a will contest
18 health & wellness: droopy eyelids
22 booming better travel: the no.1 destination
more articles 36 wellness coach: mindful eating during the holidays
16 money matters: create your safety net 37 real estate: making winter bearable
20 essay: word play 40 medicare advisor: income related surcharges
38 retirement readiness 44 medicaid advisor: long-term care
42 wellness advocate: it's not dementia
46 app-titude: payment services
westchesterseniorvoice.com 4 winter 2020-2021
We are pleased to announce that Phelps
Hospital recently received Recognition as
an Age-Friendly Health System from the
Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI).
In achieving this designation, we
demonstrated our ability to render care to
patients 65+ years old in the area of the
4Ms - What Matters Most, Medication,
Mentation and Mobility - and committed to
implementing performance improvement
plans as we strive to enhance the care we
provide. The Age-Friendly Health System
recognition is a shift in the paradigm of
care in which the 4Ms drive all care and
decision making in the inpatient and
ambulatory care settings.
If you have any questions, please reach
out to Ellen Woods at (914) 366-3937 or
email vitality@northwell.edu.
Phelps Hospital is pleased to announce
the launch of a Caregiver Program!
Led by a social worker, this program will provide support services and
resource information to caregivers. Phelps recognizes the role of the
caregiver as an important one in helping patients age-in-place safely,
securely and independently. Often, the physical and emotional health
of the person providing care becomes compromised. It is difficult to
assist someone else if the needs of the caregiver are not met. Phelps
Caregivers Center will provide our patients’ caregivers with emotional
support, counseling, and the resources necessary to navigate the health
care system.
To contact the Caregiver Program,
please call 914-366-1199 or e-mail
us at caregiver@northwell.edu.
winter 2020-2021 5 westchesterseniorvoice.com
SeniorVoice
WESTCHESTER
PUBLISHER
Susan E. Ross
publisher@westchesterseniorvoice.com
914.380.2990
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Rosemary Black
Lauren C. Enea
Steven Geiger and Rosemary Stern
Jessica Kishpaugh
Kim Kovach
Donna Moriarty
Colin Sandler
Mamta V. Shah, MD
Anastasia Slesareva
Robert Remin
Laura I. Rotter
Alice Tseng
Steven Weisblatt, MD
CIRCULATION
Rare Sales, Inc. / Bob Engelman
914.661.3605
To our readers: We are able to publish and dis-
tribute this magazine through the support of our
advertisers. Please let them know you reached
out to them because of Westchester Senior Voice.
Publisher is not responsible for errors in
advertising or claims made by advertisers.
We do not knowingly accept any advertising
that violates any law. Opinions, articles and
advertising appearing in this magazine should
not be construed as endorsement by the Pub-
lisher of any product, service, or person.
VOLUME 5.5 WINTER 2020-2021
Copyright © Voice Media LLC.
All rights reserved.
Reproduction in whole or in part
without written permission is prohibited.
Westchester Senior Voice
Print ISSN 2469-5203
Online ISSN 2469-5211
Publishing Quarterly plus an Annual Guide
and the Booming BETTER Expo
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VOICE MEDIA LLC
WESTCHESTER SENIOR VOICE
PO BOX 301 WHITE PLAINS, NY 10605
westchesterseniorvoice.com 6 winter 2020-2021
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YONKERS MAMARONECK
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winter 2020-2021 7 westchesterseniorvoice.com
from the publisher
HELLO! I AM SO HAPPY TO To repeat some information from our last issue,
report that this past October, we’ve been publishing, in print and online, since
Westchester Senior Voice was 2016. Up until Covid hit, we distributed the magazine
honored with six awards for edito- throughout Westchester at about 700 locations. To
rial excellence by the leading trade make sure we get into your hands now, we’ve tran-
association representing boomer sitioned to mailing the magazine direct into homes,
and senior publications through- with just a few thousand copies selectively placed in
out the country. The distinction the community.
was particularly sweet as our con-
tent was evaluated and judged by faculty and staff at the If you’d like to continue to receive this magazine
prestigious University of Missouri School of Journalism. at no charge, please email your U.S. postal ad-
It means the world to me to know that this labor of love, dress to us at office@westchesterseniorvoice.
this magazine, is recognized for what we do. com. By doing so, you’ll be added to our mail list for
the coming year. If you did receive this issue via the
In our most recent survey, 60% of readers told us they mail, please FIRST check the label on this issue’s
hold on to their issue of Westchester Senior Voice for cover. If it has your first and last name on the mailing
more than a month. Thank you! In that same survey, label, there is NO need to email us with your address
92% of readers indicated that the advertising in this as you are already on our list.
magazine was useful or relevant to them, a spouse
or partner, or a family member. That’s a pretty strik- Alternatively, you can sign up for a digital version of
ing number, which leads me to another plain truth: the magazine, to be sent to your email inbox, by go-
while having an online presence for our magazine is ing to our site at www.westchesterseniorvoice.com
essential, especially during these times and moving and signing up for the email newsletter. Once on
towards the future, our readers still have a clear pref- the site, within seconds, a box will pop up and ask
erence and need for us as a printed medium. And we you for your email address. Simply fill it in and bam,
will continue to deliver as such. you’re done!
But that also begs the question, “how are we able We hope you enjoy this issue. It’s chock full of won-
to produce and deliver this magazine without any derful articles, all intended to help you create your
charge to our readers?” The answer, as you may al- strongest and best life.
ready know, is that we are supported entirely by our
advertisers. So, please let them know you learned
about them through Westchester Senior Voice. En- Wishing us all love and peace,
courage your friends and family to do the same. If
you love our magazine and use it to empower your-
self to live your best and strongest life, then become
a “brand ambassador” for our magazine by talking
it up. If you frequent a business or service, let them Susan E. Ross
know about this publication. It may help them in Publisher and Certified Senior Advisor®
their endeavors as well. publisher@westchesterseniorvoice.com
westchesterseniorvoice.com 8 winter 2020-2021
ASK THE DOC
When should I see an orthopedic surgeon for pain?
Dr. Andrew Casden, Chief of Orthopedic and Spine Surgery at White Plains Hospital,
answers this common question.
Experiencing some type of pain in your back, joints and muscles is a natural part of aging. For instance, a strain following a
strenuous walk or morning stiffness as you get out of bed are all very common with advancing years. In fact, studies suggest
that one out of three people in the United States are living with varying degrees of discomfort. “I tell my patients who complain
about morning stiffness to have a cup of coffee and a shower, and then tell me if they still have pain, or if it goes away on its
own,” says Dr. Casden.
However, significant pain in the back, neck, arms or legs that lasts longer than a week should be evaluated by an orthopedic
specialist, says Dr. Casden. The specialist will typically treat this pain using physical rehabilitation, counseling, medications and
complementary therapies before even considering a referral to a spine surgeon, he says. “If those options do not work, patients
at White Plains Hospital can be assured of a safe, personalized surgical approach to help them return to their normal quality of
life,” says Dr. Casden. “With advancements in technology combined with the precision of minimally-invasive procedures, patients
don’t have to live with their chronic pain any longer.”
KNOW WHEN TO CALL THE DOCTOR
1. pAiN THAT DOEs 2. pAiN THAT AffECTs 3. pAiN LEvEL is A six 4. fREquENT usE
not go away DAiLy ACTiviTiEs out of ten Of MEDiCATiONs
Significant pain in the back, See a specialist if pain is Doctors often use a scale You are taking over the
neck, arms or legs that lasts interfering with your ability to of one to ten (worst) to counter anti-inflammatory
longer than a week, and function, including walking, assess patients’ pain. A medications more than
doesn’t go away with over- sleeping, or using your arm or six normally indicates a five times a week, or
the-counter medicines or rest, leg, and if it is affecting your moderately strong level on a regular basis, and
should be evaluated. emotional well-being. of pain. continue to have pain.
To find an orthopedist, call 914-849-MyMD or visit wphospital.org
A MEMBER OF THE MONTEFIORE HEALTH SYSTEM
winter 2020-2021 9 westchesterseniorvoice.com
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westchesterseniorvoice.com 10 winter 2020-2021COMMUNITY
Tackling
Yonkers Connects! Social
Isolation
PROGRAMS VIA ZOOM
In partnership with Yonkers NNORC, Yonkers
Public Library, and New York-Presbyterian/
Lawrence Hospital, the following can be
found via Zoom:
BODY/MIND FITNESS with Coach Karl.
Energize your body and prepare your mind
to face challenges from the comfort of your
home. Practice mindfulness and move-
ment for a better body-mind connection on
Wednesdays at 9a.m.
BINGO: Play Bingo on Zoom, Thursdays
at 1p.m. Contact Z at 914-779-3774 or z@
ypl.org for Bingo Cards.
MEDITATION CHAIR YOGA: Dr.
Rubina Heptulla, of Millennium Medical &
Rehab, walks participants through fitness
and meditation exercises on Fridays at 9a.m.
NEW YORK-PRESBYTERIAN/
LAWRENCE HOSPITAL SPEAKER
SERIES: Learn from the hospital's experts
about a variety of topics in their specialties,
once a month on Tuesdays at 1p.m. (Dates
to be announced.)
For details on the above programs and
Zoom call-in/password, contact Sally Pinto
at Yonkers NNORC at 914-391-1323 or
sally.pinto@yonkersny.gov
Photo left to right: Z Baird and Sally Pinto
When Kelly Chiarella, director of the Yon- ested in helping older adults in the area. And while the Yonkers libraries are open for
kers Office of the Aging, and Judy Fink, browsing as well as contactless pick-up, Z
director of geriatric services at WJCS The Yonkers students work with seniors to is partnering with NNORC and other orga-
(Westchester Jewish Community Servic- get them on Zoom so they can participate nizations to keep the community engaged,
in virtual programs and activities, visit with connected and thriving. That includes pro-
es) secured a New York State grant for
friends, and connect with their children grams to keep seniors moving and to pro-
$200,000 a year for five years, to fund the
and grandchildren. vide structure to their days, whether it’s a 9
city’s Neighborhood Naturally Occurring
a.m. yoga class or 1 p.m. bingo.
Retirement Communities (NNORC), they The all-volunteer teen corps meets once a
never anticipated it would also support week for training on different technologies In addition to library resources such as
their senior population through the bleak- and to review issues they come across. In streaming movies online and download-
est days of the pandemic and beyond. addition to teaching basic tech skills, they able books, there's something to look
tutor seniors on photo-taking and accessing forward to every morning: from seminars
While supporting case management and virtual programming offered by the Yonkers - courtesy of New York-Presbyterian to
nursing services, the grant is also fund- libraries, which have three physical loca- art and gardening indoors, among many
ing a variety of programs and activities tions: the Riverfront Library, the Crestwood other virtual activities.
for those aging independently at home. Library, and the Grinton I. Will Library.
Assuring seniors there are many ways to
When Covid hit Westchester, Yonkers Z Baird, branch manager of the Crest- remain active and participate in the com-
NNORC Coordinator Sally Pinto immedi- wood Library, says they are finding differ- munity, Sally adds, “They are not alone!” Z
ately recognized the need for a “tech squad” ent ways “to build togetherness without concurs, " We are going to thrive together!
to support people who weren’t necessarily being physically there.” Seniors are also
comfortable with technology as a means contending with the closing of senior cen- To find out more about activities and programs,
to socialize and connect. She enlisted the ters, exacerbating already-existing social and to participate and engage, contact Z Baird
help of the Yonkers Partners in Education isolation and making access to technol- (914-779-3774 or z@ypl.org) or Sally Pinto
(YPIE), who recruited high schoolers inter- ogy more important than ever. (914-391-1323 or Sally.Pinto@yonkersny.gov).
winter 2020-2021 11 westchesterseniorvoice.comWORTH NOTING
are often wet and slippery) to stair lifts, per-
sonal oxygen equipment, sleeper chairs,
custom home-care beds, and more.
Excellent service and caring staff is the
key to their success. To that end, O’Keefe
and his team answer calls and "show up"
seven days a week.
There is a loaner program on all durable
purchases so customers are never left
without if something needs to be repaired.
A Belated Welcome to On the Mend On The Mend’s Director of Operations
and Community Relations Marsi Beck
comments, “I absolutely love our custom-
ers and this business.”
When On The Mend Medical Supplies O’Keefe, originally from the Bronx, opened
& Equipment opened in Mount Kisco in his first medical supply store in Southbury,
February of 2020, they could not have an- CT almost five years ago. His philosophy “We provide solutions for aging in place
ticipated that in just over a month, most has always been to treat every client as he and creating safe spaces,” says O’Keefe,
of Westchester would be shut down - and would want his own parents treated – mom who also promises that once the pandem-
boomers and seniors, along with many is now 79 and dad is 86. The entire On The ic has passed, On The Mend will be bring-
others, would not be venturing out to visit Mend team operates with this same goal. ing fully accessible vans to Westchester
any new stores, even essential ones! As he describes it, “I hire great people. And to drive clients to medical appointments
we are all big on compassion.” and other destinations.
However, under the leadership of owner
Liam O’Keefe, On The Mend quickly en- Now, with a second location in Westches- On The Mend Medical Supplies & Equip-
gaged with the community by providing PPE ter, the store’s product offerings are exten- ment in Westchester is located at 280 North
(Personal Protective Equipment). You can sive: from barrier-free showers and safety Bedford Road, #101, in Mount Kisco; www.
still find masks, face shields and gowns, as items for bathrooms (which is the number onthemendmedical.com; 914-483-3605
well as other protective gear, at the store. one location in the home for falls, as floors (See ad on page 27 for 10% discount.)
Phelps Hospital Best in Class
Recognized as The Osborn Pavilion in
Rye is one of only 20
Age-Friendly skilled nursing facilities
(out of 617) in New York
State to be recognized as and consistent performance
Phelps Hospital/Northwell Health a Best Nursing Home for in quality measures.
has been recognized as an Age- “Becoming an Age-Friendly 2020-21 by U.S. News &
Friendly Health System by the Health System requires an in- World Report. According to Matthew G.
Institute for Healthcare Improve- terdisciplinary approach in or- Anderson, President and
ment (IHI). der to make a real difference in They achieved the highest CEO of The Osborn, “We
the care we provide,” said Ellen possible rating, High Per- are extremely honored
Phelps earned the distin- Woods, Program Director of forming, for both short-term to be awarded the des-
guished honor for its ability to Vitality, a Phelps Hospital pro- rehabilitation and long-term ignation of ’Best Nursing
render care to patients 65 and gram designed for older West- care. They are also the Home’ by U.S. News &
older in the areas known as the chester residents. “Our suc- only skilled nursing facility World Report. We are also
4Ms – What Matters Most, Med- cess depends upon the entire in Westchester to achieve very proud of our extraordi-
ication, Mentation and Mobility. Phelps Hospital team embrac- this rating in 2020. nary staff who deliver high
The title also recognizes Phelps ing the 4Ms model and incorpo- quality services to individu-
for its commitment to enhanc- rating continual improvement in To receive the designation, als each and every day as
ing the already high-quality care how we deliver care. We’re all U.S. News assesses the ap- part of The Osborn’s over-
provided at the hospital. in this together.” propriate use of key services all continuum of care.”
westchesterseniorvoice.com 12 winter 2020-2021Neurological Cardiopulmonary
Conditions Disease Complex medical conditions
require comprehensive rehabilitation
programs. Burke provides the
essential expertise and resources
to help you move forward. From
NO MATTER inpatient to outpatient, we will remain
Brain
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CONDITION
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winter 2020-2021 13 westchesterseniorvoice.comLEGAL TALK
How to Avoid a Will Contest
When Disinheriting a Child or Family Member BY LAUREN C. ENEA, ESQ.
I am often asked about this topic by you to have full control over your assets an “in terrorem” clause should be placed
my clients, especially when they are during your life, but avoids probate when in your Will in order to deter potential Will
you pass away. The trust does not have contests. These clauses often state that
alienated from and wish to disinherit a
to go through the probate process, and in the event of a Will contest, the indi-
child or family member. therefore no one needs to be provided vidual seeking to contest the Will would
with notice of the trust’s existence or the forfeit any distribution to him or her if he
When these types of situations arise,
terms thereunder. This allows your wish- or she were not successful in the Will
there are many steps you can take to
es to stay private, especially where you contest.
avoid your Will from being contested by
are disinheriting certain individuals.
individuals who believe they are entitled
In addition to the above steps, it is impor-
to receive your assets:
A revocable trust is not totally immune tant to meet with an experienced estate
from a contest, but it makes a contest planning attorney and provide him or her
1. AVOID PROBATE
significantly more difficult, as there is no with detailed information as to why an
A Last Will and Testament only controls
requirement that the distributees be pro- individual is being disinherited or being
assets that are in your name alone (with
vided with notice of the trust. left a lesser amount of money than oth-
no beneficiary) on your date of death.
ers under your Will. This information will
One of the best things you can do to
3. JOINT OWNERS AND be helpful in assessing the potential for
avoid a Will contest is ensure that no as-
NAMED BENEFICIARIES a Will contest and protecting against one
sets pass through your Probate estate
Having joint owners on your bank ac- being brought in the future.
and are controlled by your Will.
counts and named beneficiaries on your n n n
In order to be valid, a Will must be ad- retirement assets are simple ways to
Lauren C. Enea, Esq. is an Associate at Enea,
mitted to probate and the individuals avoid probate and allows assets to pass
Scanlan & Sirgnano, LLP. She concentrates her
who are entitled to receive assets if you directly to your intended beneficiaries. practice on Wills, Trusts and Estates, Medicaid
passed away without a Will (called “dis- However, issues can arise where the Planning, Special Needs Planning and Probate/
tributees”), including those that you de- joint owner or named beneficiary prede- Estate Administration. Ms. Enea believes it is
cided to disinherit, need to be provided ceases you. A trust can provide contin- never to early or too late to start planning for
with notice of the Will being admitted to gencies for these situations and is there- your future. She is admitted to practice law in
fore a better long-term solution. New York and Florida and is an active member of
probate. This often opens the door for
the Executive Committee of the New York State
the Will contest. Bar Association (NSYBA) Elder & Special Needs
4. INCLUDE A “NO CONTEST" Section. She can be reached at 914-948-1500
2. USE A REVOCABLE TRUST CLAUSE IN YOUR WILL or at L.Enea@esslawfirm.com. Please visit www.
A revocable trust is a vehicle that allows A No-Contest clause, also referred to as esslawfirm.com for more information.
What steps have you taken to protect your
life savings from the cost of long term care?
. Elder Law . Asset Protection . Medicaid Applications (Nursing Home/Home Care)
. Guardianships (Contested/Non-Contested) . Wills, Trusts & Estates
WHITE PLAINS . SOMERS . WWW.ESSLAWFIRM.COM
Contact LAUREN C. ENEA, ESQ. . 914.948.1500
westchesterseniorvoice.com 14 winter 2020-2021Suddenly facing
Suddenly facing
the
the world
Suddenly
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world alone?
facing
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alone?
Your investment portfolio is the last thing you
Your investment portfolio is the last thing you Walter C. Camas
the world alone?
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about when when
facing the facing the
Douglas P. Ruby, CRPC®
Financial Advisor
Senior Vice President
world
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by yourself. 2000 Westchester Avenue
Financial Advisor
Your investment portfolio
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MECH © 2020 Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.
8982191 /604069437 5.5” x 8.5” CRC 2923240 04/20
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JOB NAME:
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© 2020 Morgan
© 2020
CREATIvE STUDIO
Stanley
MorganSmith Barney
Stanley
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LLC.
Smith Member
Barney LLC.SIPC.
Member SIPC. CRC 2923240
Ruby 2020-2021 15 westchesterseniorvoice.com
winter CRC04/20
2923240 04/20 TMPL:
DESCRIPTION:
1585 Broadway, 23rd Floor Alone LocAd PICKUP: 8973413
PAPER: TBDMONEY MATTERS
Creating A Financial Safety Net
During Uncertain Times and Beyond BY ALICE TSENG
COVID has affected every to opt out of returning to work.
single American on some
I also helped a couple, Joan and
level. More than that, it’s
Richard, refinance their previ-
created a wave of reluc- ously manageable mortgage
tant retirees. balance. Richard’s medical
practice had converted to tele-
According to a recent New health due to the pandemic,
School study, older working and appointments fell off signifi-
Americans are faced with a cantly. Prior to COVID, covering
double whammy. Even if they monthly bills was not a concern.
manage to dodge the dispropor- Then things got very tight, very
tionately dangerous effects of fast. Using the HECM reverse,
the virus, they are more suscep- they were able to get out of the
tible to job loss (than their 35- to modest monthly mortgage pay-
54-year-old counterparts). ments on the old mortgage, and
are now using the HECM line of
A viable safety net for home- credit to pay their high property
owners ages 62 and older - who either taxes and house insurance.
cannot gain re-entry to the workforce The key feature for both short-term relief
due to COVID, must compromise with and long-term consideration is that there Unlike Richard, who could see some pa-
under-employment, or prefer to retire are no required repayments for any of tients virtually during lockdown, Bonnie
early to avoid the health risks of return- the loan monies provided to the borrow- and Stan’s heating/AC business entailed
ing to work – is a reverse mortgage, for- er, as long as the homeowner continues servicing clients’ equipment in their homes.
mally known as a Home Equity Conver- to live in the home as their primary resi- Their small business shut down overnight.
sion Mortgage (HECM). dence, and keeps current on property Although they were already contemplating
taxes and home insurance. retirement, COVID made the decision for
Reverse mortgages have come a long them before they were ready. Closing their
way since their introduction and no lon- You still own your home and you can sell HECM reverse in July was the solution.
ger have the pitfalls of the older versions. at any time. A HECM reverse mortgage They did away with the monthly payments
As you may have seen Tom Selleck say can provide immediate, and likely long- on the HELOC balance that was paid off,
on TV, they are now a smart and safe term, relief, and give you time to get your and set up a monthly draw to replace what
way to leverage equity. You are using bearings and map out your retirement had been earned income, to maintain their
the equity in your home for your current future. You are spared from dipping into budget and pay bills.
needs and, in most cases, still leaving your retirement investments (and suf-
meaningful value to your heirs without fering the tax consequences) to cover Many people don’t understand how the
passing on any liability to them. mortgage payments. HECM works so they are fearful of using
it to address their financial pressures.
HECMs are FHA-insured and HUD-reg- Recently, I helped a school administra- Learning more about how it works is an
ulated. Put simply, they are home equity tor, Dolores. After months of lockdown, important first step in finding out if it may
mortgages that do not require monthly re- the thought of physically returning to be right for you, and if it can help secure
payment. Between 40 to 60% of a home’s work made her anxious and panicky. your financial future.
appraised property value can be loaned, She lives in a blended family with adult n n n
depending on age. They can be used to children and her 92-year-old mother; ev- Your questions are welcomed and do not imply
pay off an existing mortgage, relieving the eryone felt vulnerable for the family ma- any obligation whatsoever. Contact Alice di-
homeowner from monthly mortgage pay- triarch. The HECM provided Dolores a rectly at 646-543-9262 or aliceinreverse@gmail.
ments, or used to create an additional in- monthly supplemental income to her ear- com. Alice Lee Tseng, Licensed Loan Originator
come stream. Or be used for both. ly social security benefits, enabling her Sponsored by AAG, NMLS ID: 974322
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winter 2020-2021 17 westchesterseniorvoice.comHEALTH AND WELLNESS
Improve Vision and Appearance for
Droopy Eyelids BY MAMTA V. SHAH, MD
Our eyes are thought to be our most plays a large role in opening the eyelid levator muscle to improve the field of vi-
effective means of nonverbal commu- and keeping it open. sion and appearance. For dermatochala-
sis, surgery involves removing the caus-
nication. They convey our emotions
Age-related skin changes, sun exposure, ative upper eyelid skin in a manner that
honestly and, often times, involuntarily. and gravity over many years can take still allows for good eyelid closure, cos-
their toll on the levator muscle, causing it mesis, and symmetry between both eye-
But what if droopy upper eyelids cover to separate from its insertion on the eyelid lids. These are usually outpatient proce-
your eyes or hinder your vision, prevent- and leading to “ptosis,” one of the several dures with a return to home on the same
ing you from seeing the eyes of others? causes of a droopy upper eyelid. Other day. Recovery is variable, but for most
causes of ptosis include: patients, it takes about one to two weeks.
Droopy upper eyelids can both impede n Hereditary ptosis Minor bruising or swelling can be expect-
this nonverbal communication and n Excessive eye rubbing ed and will likely resolve during that time.
block vision, creating serious safety n Traumatic injury to the nerve that stimu-
and quality of life issues. Droopy eye- lates the levator muscle or to the muscle itself In considering ptosis surgery, patients
lids may not be functionally bothersome n Cataract surgery should understand that even the most
but rather an aesthetic or cosmetic n Stroke, tumors or diseases such as my- skilled surgeon cannot control all the vari-
concern. They can impact your appear- asthenia gravis ables that determine the final position of
ance, making you look tired, sleepy, or the eyelid. It’s possible the eyelid will be
older than you may be. Normal age-related loss of skin elasticity and higher or lower than desired, which can be
weakening of the connective tissue of the up- revised at a later point once swelling has
Droopy eyelids that limit or block vision per eyelid may also lead to an appearance of resolved. The vast majority of patients are
should be diagnosed and managed by a excess or redundant upper eyelid skin that pleased with the improved position of their
medical professional. Symptoms include: “weighs” the eyelid down, touches the lid’s lid(s) and their appearance. As with any
n Not being able to see the upper part of margin and/or eyelashes, and in some cases surgery there is potential risk for occur-
the visual field; causes a “hooding” effect on the lid. This is rence of complications such as bleeding
n Forehead ache from increased effort called “dermatochalasis,” another cause of a and infection, though this is uncommon.
needed to raise the eyelids; droopy upper eyelid. Your surgeon will need to know about any
n Needing to tilt the head back or lifting blood-thinning medications you are on as
the eyelid with a finger to see from under Whether you are bothered by the ap- well as your detailed medical history.
the eyelid; pearance of droopy eyelids or are ex- n n n
n Eye strain and eye fatigue, especially periencing functional vision impairment, Dr. Mamta Shah is an oculoplas-
when reading. you should know that both ptosis and tic surgeon, board-certified by the
dermatochalasis are treatable. Your pri- American Board of Ophthalmolo-
A thorough knowledge of the delicate up- mary care physician can recommend gy. She completed her medical
per eyelid anatomy helps diagnose each a specialist known as an “oculoplastic degree at Boston University
School of Medicine, and her resi-
patient’s specific concern. A group of surgeon” who will conduct a thorough ex- dency in Ophthalmology at SUNY Downstate
muscles work in synchrony to open and amination to determine the cause of your Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY. Dr. Shah com-
close the eyelids during one, single blink. droopy eyelid(s) and, depending upon pleted an Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstruc-
Good eyelid closure keeps moisture in severity, recommend either surgical or tive Surgery fellowship at Allegheny Health Net-
and prevents the ocular surface from dry- non-surgical treatment options. work in Pittsburgh, PA. She practices at
CareMount Medical’s Mount Kisco campus and
ing out or being exposed to harmful toxins
at Putman Hospital Center and she is affiliated
in the environment. A specific upper eye- For severe ptosis, surgery is usually rec- with Northern Westchester Hospital. Learn
lid muscle, known as the levator muscle, ommended to strengthen and tighten the more at CareMountMedical.com
westchesterseniorvoice.com 18 winter 2020-2021Sit Down
and Move!
Greenwich
Excellence in Dementia Care
Social Creatures, a nonprofit organiza-
tion working to keep people socially con-
nected and to promote overall health and
happiness, has created Sitness, a new
fully-seated fitness program appropriate
for all ages and mobility levels. Requiring
no equipment, Sitness classes are led by
Alex Blunt (pictured below), a world class
trainer of elite and Olympic-level athletes.
Founder and Executive Director Rose
Perry, Ph.D., a neuroscientist and physiolo-
gist at New York University, comments, “We
are just doing our best to make sure everyone
DISCOVER
can stay active and socially connected dur-
ing the pandemic.” In response to the health
crisis, the team at Social Creatures acted
The Greens at Greenwich
quickly to create this Zoom-based group fit-
ness class - born out of the lack of inclusive Your silver lining, your answer for the best care
home group exercise offerings for people of for your loved one with memory impairment.
varying mobility. Says Perry, “We knew we
had to come up with a solution – and fast – to The Greens at Greenwich has been providing excellence in Dementia Care
keep everyone physically active and socially for over 20 years. Whether you call it memory care, Alzheimer’s Care or
connected throughout Covid-19.” Dementia Care, we are the silver lining for your loved ones new normal.
Celebrating Your Loved Ones New Story
• Memory shifts and fades throughout our lives—it is a combination of
partial memories, fiction and new realities—stories live forever.
• We celebrate the gift of the story through creative arts therapy,
the new best medicine for memory care.
• We are the recognized leader in the field and the only assisted living community
to provide creative arts therapies by licensed and accredited staff.
Ensuring Safety and Clarity
• We provide emotional, environmental and personal safety.
• Our staff is carefully selected for qualities of compassion, empathy
and a passion for working with this population.
• Our extensive training and support are reflected in the longevity of our staff.
Classes are structured to include breath-
Providing Dignity, Empowerment and Family
work and trunk stability instruction, mobil-
• We understand the disease related to memory loss and guide your loved ones as
ity training, strength and cardiovascular
they change and help them find coping skills related to their new normal.
training, and a cool-down. Exercises vary
from week to week; some weeks focus • In their new journey they find empowerment and enrichment through daily activities and care.
more on one area than another, such as • New friendships and connections provide self affirmation.
the correct way to breath.
Discover how The Greens Family may be your silver lining.
We continue to be COVID-free. Conveniently located on
Those interested in the program can ei-
the Westchester/Connecticut border.
ther go to YouTube.com and search for
“Sitness” to find the 40- to 50-minute
Zoom video classes that have already SCHEDULE A VIRTUAL TOUR TODAY.
been recorded, or reach out to Dr. Perry at Call Maria Scaros, Executive Director • 203.531.5500
Rose@thesocialcreatures.org to get links mscaros@thegreensatgreenwich.com • thegreensatgreenwich.com
to the live Zoom classes.
winter 2020-2021 19 westchesterseniorvoice.comTHE ESSAYIST
word play BY KIM KOVACH
We all want to keep our minds sharp. York Times crossword editor proposed in- and strategies, and also to make social
Experts tell us to eat fish, stay hydrat- cluding a crossword puzzle as a welcome connections.” Sandi, a Westchester resi-
distraction for readers shortly after the dent, adds, “Playing board games gives
ed, exercise, and get enough quality
U.S. entered into World War II. She re- us a sense of accomplishment and it’s
sleep. But here’s a fun fact – you can portedly sent a note to the Sunday editor fun!” More word play games you may
boost mental agility and cognition by ending with the heartfelt statement, “You want to try include Blank Slate, Word-
playing word games! can’t think of your troubles while solving smithery, Upwords, Boggle, and Quiddler.
a crossword.” The first New York Times
Try solving the crossword puzzle in the crossword appeared in their Sunday THERE’S AN APP FOR THAT!
newspaper. Play word games on your magazine on February 15, 1942. Word game apps for your smartphone
smartphone while waiting in the doctor’s provide the convenience and portabil-
office. Turn the television off after din- HUMBLE BEGINNINGS ity of boosting your brain power right in
ner and break out the board games for a Perhaps you prefer a competitive game the palm of your hand. New versions of
little cerebral fun. of Scrabble. The original idea for this the popular game Words With Friends
ubiquitous word game arose during the now include solo challenge events and
“Use it or lose it,” as the saying goes. By Great Depression. An unemployed archi- lightning rounds. Sandi enjoys the social
simply sitting down to focus on a word tect from Poughkeepsie, Alfred Mosher aspect of playing Words With Friends
game or crossword puzzle, you are help- Butts, wanted to create a challenging online with a group. “I also discovered a
ing to boost word retrieval, expand your word game that combined the elements free app for a game called 7 Little Words
vocabulary, and stay mentally alert and of skill, strategy and chance. Originally which I’ve been playing a lot.”
active. Word games also improve prob- called Lexiko and played with letter tiles
lem-solving skills, enhance concentra- only, Alfred kept refining the game dur- More word games you can play on your
tion and relieve stress! ing the 1930s and 1940s, adding a game phone include Wordscapes (combin-
board and changing the name to Criss- ing crosswords and word search), Al-
HISTORY OF THE Cross Words. Unfortunately, game man- phabear (a word strategy game), Four
CROSSWORD PUZZLE ufacturers were not interested. Letters (a timed word search) and, of
The first crossword puzzle was published course, the New York Times Crossword
in the New York World newspaper in Alfred then teamed up with entrepre- and Scrabble.
1913. The paper’s editor had asked jour- neur James Brunot to design the ver-
nalist Arthur Wynne to invent a new word sion we know today. The name Scrab- “Scrabble on the computer is unbeliev-
game to include in the Sunday entertain- ble was trademarked in 1948. Legend able!” says Sandi. “It’s a great way to learn
ment section. The first puzzle, published has it that the president of Macy’s de- strategies when the computer shows you
on December 21st of that year, was called partment stores discovered the board the best words you could have made with
Word Cross and designed in a diamond game while on vacation in the early your letters to score more points. So you
shape. Over the next 20 years, the new 1950s. Within a year, the game was are playing, and having fun and learning
word game puzzle gained popularity in sold in stores nationwide. - which is fantastic!”
newspapers across the U.S. n n n
“I love Scrabble!” says Sandi Sacks, a Kim Kovach teaches fiction writing
The New York Times was the last ma- social worker and lifelong learning advo- and creative nonfiction writing for
jor daily newspaper to offer a crossword cate. “Playing board games is important adults in Westchester and Fairfield.
puzzle. Margaret Farrar, the first New for cognition when we try new challenges www.kimkovachwrites.com
westchesterseniorvoice.com 20 winter 2020-2021Award Winning Care Only At The Osborn Pavilion
The Osborn Pavilion is the only Skilled Nursing
facility in Westchester County to be named a US
News & World Report “Best Nursing Home” for both
Short-Term Rehab and Long-Term Care in 2020.
THE OSBORN PAVILION
•5 Star overall rating from the Centers for Medicare
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•Member of the Montefiore Skilled Nursing Collaborative to CDC and NY State
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provider. The Osborn is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization.
SeniorVoice We Specialize in Senior Lifetime
WESTCHESTER
2020
Learning Experiences
RESOURCE GUIDE The Vacation Therapists®
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winter 2020-2021 21 westchesterseniorvoice.comBOOMING BETTER TRAVEL
The #1 Domestic Vacation BY FRANK BASTONE
Can you guess what the top domestic va-
cation was for North Americans in 2019?
If you said “Alaska,” you are correct!
More specifically, the winner was Alaska
cruises. According to a Travel Leaders
Group survey, 38 percent of respondents
booked a cruise to Alaska. In fact, it was
the top destination three years in a row.
One of the most popular ways to ex-
perience Alaska is with a land and sea
cruise tour. You may choose the land
portion prior to or after your cruise, but I
recommend the pre-cruise option to my
clients. This way, you can explore the
wonders of nature up-close, followed by
relaxation on your cruise ship as it trav-
els a southern itinerary along the Alas-
kan coast. A typical land tour includes
Denali State Park and Anchorage. The Your final stop on the land excursion is known as the “Salmon Capital of the
more adventurous fly into Fairbanks to is Anchorage, which is near the Whit- World” and it is truly the beginning of the
begin their Alaskan adventure and jour- tier cruise port where you will embark last frontier, located at the southernmost
ney southward. for your cruise experience. One of entrance to the Inside Passage. The
the highlights of the cruise is spending cruise ends in Vancouver, British Colum-
The Gold Rush town of Fairbanks is the an entire day among the spectacular bia, where you will disembark. You might
gateway to the Arctic. One of my clients scenery and wildlife of Glacier Bay - a spend a night there to explore the city or
selected the Arctic Circle Air and Land UNESCO World Heritage site. The fly home.
Adventure; with it, came stunning views National Park rangers onboard provide
of the Yukon River Valley and the Trans- expert and insightful narrations on what Undoubtedly, there are many wonder-
Alaska Pipeline. They landed just east can be seen from the deck. You might ful experiences that await you on a
of the gates of the Arctic National Park witness a breaching humpback whale land and sea tour of Alaska. You may
and explored the amazing tundra with or a family of bears feeding on salmon even opt to include your children and
its stark landscape. Upon their return to along the shoreline. grandchildren on the experience, as
Fairbanks, they were awarded an Arctic these family connections and memo-
Circle Adventure Certificate. Depending on the cruise itinerary, the ries will last a lifetime. Due to their im-
ports of call in Alaska could include mense popularity, advance planning of
The two sister cruise lines Princess and Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan. between nine to 12 months is recom-
Holland America are the industry leaders Skagway is home to the Klondike Gold mended. So, make it a project, get all
for Alaska cruise tours. They each built Rush National Historical Park. While the travelers involved, and enjoy the fun
their own lodges (Wilderness Lodge and there, you can take a Yukon Dog Mush- and anticipation together.
McKinley Chalet) at the doorstep of De- er Adventure Tour. n n n
nali State Park. In addition, they operate
Frank Bastone is the owner of Pin-
the largest fleet of glass-domed railcars Juneau is one of the ports of the Inside nacle Trips, a travel advisory compa-
in Alaska - providing comfortable seating Passage, which is one of the greatest ny specializing in domestic and inter-
with amazing views, spacious observa- cruising routes in the world. It is a pro- national vacations for baby boomers.
tion lounges, leisurely dining and out- tected network of glacier-cut fjords and He can be reached at 845-669-6149
door viewing platforms. lush temperate rain forests. Ketchikan or frank@pinnacletrips.com
westchesterseniorvoice.com 22 winter 2020-2021WELCOME TO THE KNOLLS!
Enjoy an ideal retirement
lifestyle in Westchester!
Discover Westchester’s most full-service retirement
community that offers:
● Maintenance-free living—no yard or housework
● 30 acres of stunning natural beauty
● Big, bright apartments in a variety of floor plans
● Amenities for socializing, hobbies, wellness and more
● A full spectrum of on-campus healthcare should you
need it
Contact The Knolls today.
Call 914-721-0855 to set up 55 Grasslands Road • Valhalla, NY 10595
an appointment! It’s time to 914-721-0855 • TheKnolls.org
enjoy more of what you live in The Knolls is a Continuing Care Retirement
Westchester for! Community or CCRC sponsored by Bethel.
WSV
winter 2020-2021 23 westchesterseniorvoice.comSENIORS LEADING THE WAY
THE MANY FACES OF
Volunteerism
Three years ago, when Jackee Cannino
BY ROSEMARY BLACK
of Somers retired, she became one of
850 active volunteers making a differ-
ence in Westchester through RSVP
of Westchester (Retired and Senior
Volunteer Program) and its umbrella
organization Volunteer New York!
And while the pandemic has affected
some of her volunteering efforts, it hasn’t
dampened her commitment, enthusiasm
and willingness to help out wherever
needed. The former educator, who spent
44 years as a teacher and school admin-
istrator, is still providing rides to ages 60
and older through RideConnect, a non-
profit partner of RSVP of Westchester.
“I’m a people person,” Cannino says.
“And the people I have met while being
a driver are some of the most incredible,
intelligent, gifted, professional and in-
teresting people you could ever hope to
meet. I drove one man who is 102 years
old and is still so active.”
Devoting 15 hours a week to RSVP, Transformational Award Recipient Duke Searles
Cannino is just one of many older West-
chester County residents who volunteer, though the pandemic has curtailed most needs volunteers,” she says. “Seniors
some of them logging 20 or more hours face-to-face contact with many of those bring a lot to the table. They have a wide
weekly. They love what they do, and al- they help, the volunteers continue to do range of past experiences and volun-
a lot of behind-the-scenes work. Can- teering lets them use their skills to effect
RideConnect, a not-for-profit program of Fam- nino, for instance, spends time each change and to feel engaged.”
ily Services of Westchester, has continued to week on Zoom meetings for her various
serve the senior community during the pan- volunteer commitments with RSVP, and While some volunteer positions have dis-
demic - with open arms and hearts. Over 600 she is now on their advisory committee. appeared, many others remain open. “A
volunteers signed up to help with their Shop and lot of the educational opportunities can
Drop program. In the course of three months, RSVP of Westchester Director Wendy be done over the phone or on Zoom,”
drivers delivered over 9,000 meals and grocer- Armstrong notes there are scores of vol- Armstrong says. “And we still need driv-
ies, "all because of the kindness of volunteers unteer opportunities, even in the midst of ers to help out. We also have an active
of all ages - from high school and all the way the current health crisis. “Every one of the Zoom program so volunteers can work
up," says RideConnect Director Karen Ganis. organizations we work with consistently with children and in other educational op-
westchesterseniorvoice.com 24 winter 2020-2021You can also read
