Helping You Stay Healthy, Happy and Connected

MAY 2014
Helping You Stay Healthy, Happy and Connected
By JOHN BOWMAN
D
esigning the best pill
box may not sound like
a breakthrough innovation but it is important to older
adults who are learning how to
adapt as they age.
A growing number of startups in the San Francisco Bay
area are working to make design as important as functionality when creating products
aimed at making life easier and
more enjoyable for older adults.
One such company is Sabi,
which makes elegant pill boxes,
shower seats, canes, and walking sticks.
Katy Fike, PhD, co-founder of
Aging2.0, told Whistlestop that
her company is mentoring such
Bay Area companies as Sabi
and Lively, which uses sleek
wireless activity sensors to help
older adults live independently
and manage their daily routines
such as pill taking.
Fike, who founded Aging2.0
with Stephen Johnston, MBA,
said, “We are definitely seeing
Call for
Baseball Stories
4
a shift to more emphasis on
design. In the past all of the
focus was on functionality, but
expectations are higher today
and design is equally important.
Sabi is a good example – they
are rethinking pill boxes, making them more beautiful, and
they are adding style to canes
and other home products like
shower seats. Older adults
should be able to enjoy well designed, stigma-free products.”
The stylish new pill boxes “look
like they could be sold in the
Apple store instead of the drug
store,” she said.
Lively’s smart sensors help
families stay in sync about daily
activities. Fike said she set up
her father, who is 80 and lives
in Southern California, with
Lively sensors including one
on a kitchen cabinet where he
keeps his coffee. “If he hasn’t
made coffee by 10 in the morning, I receive a text message on
my phone and can check in and
make sure everything is ok.”
Aging2.0 supports innovators
Medicare
Options
5
Katy Fike of Aging2.0
by hosting local events that create networking and educational
opportunities. “Also, we now
run the GENerator, our accelerator program, where we provide more hands-on support to
startups in exchange for a small
equity stake in each company,”
Fike said.
Fike added that she is impressed with the work Whistlecontinued on page 5
Whistlestock
14
Whistlestop PERSPECTIVE
Marin Senior Coordinating Council is
Whistlestop
930 Tamalpais Avenue, San Rafael, CA 94901
www.whistlestop.org –
to sign up to get this newsletter via email.
For annual subscription mailed to your home, send
$10 to Whistlestop.
The Mission of Whistlestop:
Whistlestop believes that we share a responsibility
to ensure that all Marin residents have an opportunity to age with dignity, grace and independence.
Whistlestop Contact Information
Main office:
415-456-9062
Marin Access/Travel Navigators
415-454-0902
Meals on Wheels
415-457-4636
Help Desk
415-459-6700, resource@whistlestop.org
Whistlestop Staff
CEO, Joe O’Hehir
Development and Marketing Director,
Yvonne Roberts, info@whistlestop.org
Whistlestop Express Editors,
John and Val Bowman 916-751-9189,
john.bowman58@gmail.com
Program Manager, Vicky Voicehowsky
415-457-0586
Volunteer Manager, Laurie Vermont
volunteer@whistlestop.org
Marketing & Communications Specialist,
Amanda Denny
adenny@whistlestop.org
Board of Directors
President, Michael Hingson
Vice President, Lori Peterson
Treasurer, Dennis Ryan
Secretary, Robert Sonnenberg
Etta Allen • Karen Arnold • Sharon Jackson
Nancy Rhine • Terry Scussel • Lenice Smith
Cynthia Wuthmann
Pacific Sun Staff
Advertising
John Harper • 415-485-6700
jharper@pacificsun.com
Art Director
Jim Anderson • janderson@pacificsun.com
Whistlestop Express is printed on recycled paper
LIKE US on Facebook
2
WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS MAY 2014
BY JOE O’HEHIR
The Future of Aging
I
n March of this year I had
the opportunity to attend
the American Society on
Aging (ASA) national conference on “Aging in America” held
in San Diego. The conference
brings several thousand leaders in the field of aging from
across the country together to
hear about the latest trends and
to learn about new ideas and
programs that are shaping the
future of aging.
This conference marked the
60th anniversary for the ASA,
which started as the Western
Gerontological Association in
1954 based in San Diego. It’s
a remarkable coincidence that
Whistlestop is also celebrating its 60th anniversary, having
started as the Marin Senior
Coordinating Council in 1954
based in San Rafael.
Today, those ages 85 and older
are the fastest growing segment
of the population, and the group
turning 100 years or older has
grown 66% from 32,194 in 1980
to 53,364 in 2010. A longer life
has not necessarily meant a
better quality of life, however,
and no one knows this more
intimately than the millions of
adult children caring for their
parents as they struggle to
remain in family homes and
communities. While living at
home is preferable to life in an
institution, it can still feel like a
hollow victory when it happens
in a home that poses physical,
financial, or emotional challenges and makes meaningful
connections with others difficult, if not impossible. Without
social interaction, meaning,
and purpose, advanced aging
‘ We are better together
than when we try to fly
solo during life’s Third
Chapter.
’
in one’s home, often alone, can
result in diminishing choices
and mounting levels of loneliness, helplessness, and boredom, the same three plagues of
nursing homes. As one 89 yearold woman in a recent study
said, “The hardest thing about
getting old is that the world
around you dies before you do.”
A dominant theme emerged
from the conference. “Aging in Community” is about
transforming how we age. It is
focused on approaching aging,
and aging well, within the context of community-based support and services. As evidenced
by research, we are better together than when we try to fly
solo during life’s Third Chapter. There is a growing movement, in the U.S. and globally,
especially among America’s
continued on page 3
Novato Man’s Inventions Help
Him Adapt to His Limitations
W
allace Carver of
Novato understands
well the idiom that
“Necessity is the Mother of
Invention.”
Wallace, who turned 65 on
April 25, has invented some
creative tools for dealing with
his rheumatoid arthritis. BeWallace Carver
cause of his disfigured hands,
he struggles to do basic tasks, like make a meal.
He appreciates receiving Whistlestop’s Meals on
Wheels. Wallace spends much of his time in a
motorized wheelchair and invented a “cruise control” device that allows him to set the speed on the
throttle so that his thumb doesn’t get so sore as he
“drives” it. He made the device out of a simple bent
wire. “It might not be safe for everyone,” Wallace
said. “You have to be careful about the speed. But
it works well for me.”
He said he has always enjoyed fixing and making things. He operated a woodworking machine
for years, was a casino maintenance man in Reno
and built and remodeled houses. One of his most
ingenious creations is a wrist attachment, a piece
of wire that holds down a butter knife so that he
can press the frets of his guitar and play music. He
loves to play and sing Christian songs.
Wallace has always dreamed of inventing things
for disabled people and now he is doing it for himself. And he has several other fresh ideas. So stay
tuned – you may be hearing more about this inventive man in the future. F
DID
YOU KNOW...
...that you can rent a Scooter, Powerchair or
Wheelchair for as little as $15/day?!
sales repairs rentals
New & Used The only repair Daily • Weekly
facility in Marin
Monthly
northcoast mobility
Facilitating Movement through Technology
1281 Anderson Dr, Suite F • San Rafael
457.1664 • www.norcoastmobility.com
continued from page 2
inventive boomer generation, to explore new
pathways, strategies, and challenges of how
to age successfully. This new trend is to not
merely “age in place,” but to age in community,
for better health, enhanced quality of life, and a
heightened sense of self-value and connection.
The concept of aging in community is of critical
importance because aging well is best achieved
in social connectedness. And, if needs for support develop, services alone are insufficient.
What people really need is for natural social
systems to work at an ideal level, which means
self-care, care for each other, and systems of
support in place that help individuals to remain
connected, so that life remains emotionally and
purposefully meaningful. Aging in community is
compelling and relevant because it is at the core
of how people live every day.
We at Whistlestop are committed to finding
ways to help older adults in Marin age in community and not simply age in place. It’s our mission. F
FR
seminaee
Not to rs missedbe
!
Blue Door
Seminar Schedule
1003 Third Street, San Rafael
LuNCHeON SeRIeS
Salad Lunch and Beverage Provided.
Seating Limited. RSVP.
Not Your Everyday Trust for the
Everyday Person Series
May 21• 12:15–1:15
Tough Senior Health Decisions Series
Pet Trusts
May 14 • 12:15–1:15
Pushing up Daisies - your Funerary
Options
JuNe 11• 12:15–1:15
Financing Long Term Care Series
May 7 • 12:15–1:15
Long Term Care Insurance Options
Life Insurance and estate Planning
(with a Focus on Irrevocable Life
Insurance Trusts)
More Great
Seminars
to Come!
For more estate planning information visit:
jrhastingslaw.com and estateplanning.com
Reserve a Seat Today on Our Website
www.jrhastingslaw.com/event.php
or Telephone 415-459-6635
whistlestop.org 3
T
he June issue of the Whistlestop Express
will be a special Baseball edition. The
San Rafael Pacifics open their season in
June.
So, we want to offer you the opportunity to
get your writing published. Share your favorite baseball stories. It could be about the time
you hit a home run for your high school team
in the championship game, or how you caught
a home run ball hit by your favorite Giant at
AT&T Park. We want to hear from former
players, fans, umpires, coaches, managers and
retired batboys and batgirls.
Email your story and photo to Editor John
Bowman at john.bowman58@gmail.com by
May 8. Please send the story in the body of the
email or as a Word document attachment. You
must be 60 years of age or older. Include your
name, age and address. Stories should be limited to 300 words. The photos need to be in jpeg
high- resolution format. Questions? Call John
at 916-751-9189. Play ball! F
Recognized experience
and excellence.
Family owned-and
operated since 1994.
These honors are a source
of pride for us, security and
peace of mind for you.
Whistlestop Wheels
Driver Spotlight
G
uido “Guy” Egger,
who joined Whistlestop as a Wheels
driver in July 2012, says,
“My work always leaves
me feeling that at the end
of the day I’ve done something really good for the
community.”
Egger grew up in New
York City and Orange,
Guy Egger
New Jersey, and graduated from Rutgers University in New Brunswick,
I particularly
NJ.
enjoy working
“After college I spent
eight years in the Air
with the clients.
Force as a C-130 pilot,”
Egger recalls. “Then I
joined IBM, first as a System Engineer doing tech support for three years. After that, I
moved into sales, where I spent the next 19
years in various sales and managerial positions. After retiring, I spent several years just
watching my daughter grow and enjoying my
hobbies – primarily woodworking and playing
with computers.”
Egger said he joined Whistlestop after hearing about it from several people who either
worked for, or knew about the organization.
“Although the work can be both difficult and
tiring at times, I particularly enjoy working
with the clients, knowing that the service we
provide is indispensable for many of them –
their only way to get out and about.” F
‘
’
No Waiting at The Redwoods!
Independent
Living
Available Now: Independent
Living
••One-Bedroom
&
One-Bedroom Apartments
Studio Apartments
• No Buy-In Fee; Month-to-
• No
Buy-In
Fee; Month-toMonth
Rentals
Month Rentals
www.TheRedwoods.org
• Engaging Active Lifestyle
• Comprehensive
Care
Solutions
40 Camino Alto
Mill Valley, CA 94941
(415) 383-2741
••Contact
Schenbaum
Contact Barry
Tony
Williams
or or
Barry
Schenbaum
orPam
Pam
415-383-2741
BillBill
at at
415-383-2741
SNF# 010000390
RCFE# 210102866
• Engaging Active Lifestyle
• Comprehensive Care
Serving Marin, Sonoma, Napa & Solano Counties.
Call for a complimentary Care Consultation.
415-884-4343
HiredHandsHomecare.com
4
WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS MAY 2014
201
4
Send Us Your Baseball Story!
Voted the Best Senior Living Community in Marin.
Beyond Medicare: Know Your Options
O
riginal Medicare provides healthcare
coverage at a time when most people
are no longer covered by an employer.
Regardless of your age, it’s important to reevaluate your healthcare coverage on an annual
basis. With Original Medicare you will pay a
share of the
cost for your
The most important
coverage. In
California
thing is that you have
the two most
the benefits you think
popular
you’ll need at a cost you
ways to get
assistance
can afford...
with these
out-of-pocket costs are by purchasing Medicare
Supplement Insurance or by signing up with
a Medicare Advantage plan. Both options are
available to people with Medicare, but the plans
are very different. Before signing up you’ll
want to determine which one is best for your
healthcare needs as well as your budget.
Medicare Supplement Insurance, also
known as “Medigap,” helps supplement Medicare
coverage. Some offer coverage for services that
Original Medicare doesn’t cover. Typically,
however, they are used to help pay some of
the costs that Original Medicare doesn’t. You
pay a monthly premium for a Medigap policy.
Premiums vary widely, but are higher for plans
that provide coverage immediately without
having to first meet a deductible. In California,
Medigap policies are most commonly priced
according to “attained-age rating,” meaning the
premiums go up as you get older. To find out the
premiums in your area, go to www.insurance.
ca.gov.
Medicare Advantage plans are based on
the managed care concept of having a primary
care doctor oversee all of your care – including
preventive tests and screenings and referring
you to specialists when needed. With this type
of plan you receive your Medicare benefits
through your Medicare Advantage plan. Most
Medicare Advantage plans offer benefits beyond
what Original Medicare covers, such as hearing
services, vision coverage and gym membership.
In addition, many also cover prescription drugs
‘
’
(Medicare Part D) and some are tailored for
people with specific chronic conditions, like heart
disease or diabetes. Even with the added benefits
and services, Medicare Advantage plans typically
have lower out-of-pocket costs than Original
Medicare. Monthly plan premiums usually
apply, but they are generally lower than Medigap
premiums.
Some people worry that they wouldn’t be able
to see their own doctor if they join a Medicare
Advantage plan, but many local doctors
participate with these plans. If you are interested
in a Medicare Advantage plan, check the plan’s
network to see if your doctor is affiliated.
The most important thing when selecting a
plan is that you have the benefits you think
you’ll need at a cost you can afford. To learn more
about your Medicare options call HICAP (Health
Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program) at
800-434-0222. F
continued from page 1
stop does and that it is known nationwide, especially in the area of transportation. She added
that she is interested in discussing the possibility
of partnering to foster intergenerational innovation. She and her business partner, Johnston,
believe that the people who best understand the
needs of older adults as they adapt to new needs
are older adults themselves. “So, we work to link
the young, tech-savvy entrepreneurs with the
wisdom and insight of older adults.”
Fike formerly worked in New York City at
Lehman Brothers in investment banking. “And
then 9-11 happened and I suddenly thought, is
this what I want to do with my life? How can I
give back, do something more meaningful?” She
went back to school and got her doctorate in gerontology at the University of Southern California.
“I have always had an affinity for older people
and so I thought I would explore how my passion could be put to use. The older generation has
done so much for us, paved the way. So now I get
an opportunity to try to pay them back by supporting innovations to help people stay healthy,
happy and connected in later life.” F
whistlestop.org 5
Paid Advertisment
Perfect Choice HD™ is simple to use, hard to see and easy to afford…
The invention of the year
is great news for your ears.
Now with more
power and clarity!
Affordable,
Simple to use.
Virtually
impossible
to see.
6
WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS MAY 2014
Perfect Choice HD is NOT a
hearing aid. It is a Personal
Sound Amplification Product
(PSAP). Hearing aids can only
be sold by an audiologist or a
licensed hearing instrument
specialist following hearing
tests and fitting appointments.
Once the audiologist had you
tested and fitted, you would
have to pay as much as $5000
for the product.
Now, thanks to the efforts
of the doctor who leads a
renowned hearing institute,
there is Perfect Choice HD.
It’s designed to accurately
amplify sounds and deliver
them to your ear. Because
we’ve developed an efficient
production process, we can
make a great product at an
affordable price. The unit
has been designed to have an
easily accessible battery, but
it is small and lightweight
enough to hide behind your
ear… only you’ll know you
have it on. It’s comfortable
and won’t make you feel like
you have something stuck
in your ear. It provides high
quality audio so sounds and
conversations will be easier to
hear and understand.
Try it for yourself with our
exclusive home trial. Some
people need hearing aids
but many just want the extra
boost in volume that a PSAP
gives them. We want you to
be happy with Perfect Choice
HD, so we are offering to
let you try it for yourself. If
you are not totally satisfied
with this product, simply
return it within 60 days for
a refund of the full product
purchase price. Don’t wait…
don’t miss out on another
conversation… call now!
Call now toll free for
the lowest price ever.
Please mention promotional
code 58346.
1-888-879-7781
Perfect Choice HD is not a hearing aid.
If you believe you need a hearing aid,
please consult a physician.
81007
O
NEW
ver the years, digital
electronic technology
has made the way
we live easier, safer and
more convenient. In many
cases, it’s even made many
products more affordable…
(remember how much the
first VCR’s used to cost?).
Unfortunately, the cost
of many digital products,
including the hearing aid
never seemed to come
down. Now, a new option
has been invented… it’s called
Perfect Choice HD™.
Keep Learning at WHISTLESTOP
For a complete list of classes, visit whistlestop.org
UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS
Cinco de Mayo Fiesta
Mon, May 5 • Noon-1pm
No reservations needed,
space is limited.
Join us to celebrate 5 de
Mayo at Whistlestop! We will
enjoy a Mexican-inspired
lunch and a dance performance by our very own Hispanic
group Corazon Latino!
EXERCISE-ATHON
Wed, May 28 • 9am-Noon
No Cost
We are celebrating National Senior Health and Fitness
Day with an exercise-athon at Whistlestop. Our fitness
instructors will offer free 30-minute exercise classes to
celebrate the health and fitness in you! Bring a new friend
to Whistlestop and receive a free healthy lunch that day.
Participants will also receive a commemorative T-shirt for
participating.
Exercise Schedule:
Tai Chi - 9am
Whistlesizers - 9:30am
Cardio Class - 10am
Yoga - 10:30am
Balance Class - 11am
Zumba - 11:30am
Lunch with the San Rafael Pacifics
Wed, May 28 • 12:30-2pm
Regular menu and pricing
The San Rafael Pacifics are coming
to the Jackson Café! This is a great
opportunity for baseball fans to
chat with the players and share fond
memories of the all-American game. No reservations or
tickets necessary, but space is limited.
Annual Multicultural Picnic
Thurs, May 29 • 11am-2pm
Pickleweed Community Center,
50 Canal Street, San Rafael
Cost: $3 suggested donation,
60 and over
$6 for people under 60
Registration required prior to the event
Come join us once again at our Annual Multicultural
picnic! Live entertainment: Suzie’s Studio Dance Medley
Performance & Coconut Hut Entertainment (Steel Drums.)
Hot dogs and burgers will be served during this fun event.
Don’t miss out!
HEALTH EVENTS
Taking Control of Your Job Search Presentation
Tues, May 13 • 1-2:30pm
No cost
Registration required: 456-9062
YWCA San Francisco & Marin
FiftyPlus Employment Support
Program for Women is pleased to
offer a free presentation about the
services offered at the YWCA, smart
job search strategies, current job market challenges and
the skills needed in today’s marketplace. Take advantage
of this opportunity.
Memory Screenings
Wed, May 14 • 10am-2:30pm
No cost
Registration required: 456-9062
Laurel Etheridge, certified Geriatric Manager and
Dementia Care Specialist, will conduct private and
confidential face-to-face screenings. Appointments are
required and will be offered in half-hour increments. It’s
never too early (or too late) to make lifestyle changes that
can affect your overall health. Sponsored by Senior Access,
Senior Helpers, and Etheridge Care Management.
Free Hearing Screening and CTAP Equipment
Distribution
Thurs, May 15 • 9:30am-12:30pm
Hearing Screenings by appointment: 456-9062
The California Telephone Access Program (CTAP) provides
specialized phone equipment and services to Californians
who may have difficulty using a standard phone. Get
certified for hearing difficulties and receive your free
equipment. Free hearing screenings by Kim Zeller Hoppin
from Marin Hearing Center.
Stroke Prevention Presentation
Wed, May 21 • 10:30-11:30am
No cost
Registration required: 456-9062
Kaiser Permanente is bringing a free presentation on
stroke awareness and prevention. Risk factors for strokes,
whistlestop.org 7
Keep Learning at WHISTLESTOP
For a complete list of classes, visit whistlestop.org
signs and symptoms of a stroke, and what to do if you
suspect a stroke are a few topics that will be discussed.
Bring your questions and find out about Kaiser’s Medicare
Senior Advantage Plan.
CLASSES
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Beginning Bridge Class Coming
Wed • 3-4:30pm • June 4-July 9
Cost: $20 for 6-week class
Registration required: 456-9062
Have you always wanted to learn how to play bridge?
Whistlestop is offering its second beginning bridge
class. Don’t miss this affordable opportunity to learn the
techniques of this popular game and make new friends.
It’s a good brain fitness game, too.
Jewelry Class: Basic Wire Wrapping
Thurs, May 15 • 1:30-2:45pm
Cost: $8 per class/includes materials
Class limit: 10
Registration and payment required prior to class:
456-9062
Maria Barsesat, local bead artist, will show you how to do
the most frequently used technique in jewelry making,
basic wire wrapping. We will make sets of wire-wrapped
earrings.
Zentangle Art Class
Thurs, May 22 • 1:30-3pm
Cost: $3
Registration preferred (this class sold
out last time!)
Zentangle® is an easy-to-learn,
relaxing, and fun way to create
beautiful images by drawing
structured patterns. Paula Egan, a
certified Zentangle teacher, will show
you basic techniques of this increasingly popular art form.
People with a wide range of skills, interests and ages can
use it to create beautiful images.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
**NEW**AgeSong Marin Discussion Group
Thurs • 2-3:30pm • starting May 15
Cost: $80 for eight weeks; full and partial scholarships
available
8
WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS MAY 2014
Sign up: Call 591-5726
AgeSong Marin offers
an opportunity to
“awaken as we age” by
exploring important
topics such as: coping with loss and change, handling
challenges and surprises, making new connections and
validating insights and wisdom of this stage of life. A
group of 6-8 participants ages 65 and older, guided by
two experienced facilitators, will meet weekly beginning
May 15 for eight weeks. To apply, call 591-5726. For more
information visit www.agesongmarin.org.
Ping Pong
Fri, May 2, 16 & 30 • 2-4pm
No cost/Drop-in
Join the Whistlestop Racketeers
for Ping Pong. Good for your body,
mind, and spirit. We have two tables
and a wonderful group of regulars
who enjoy the benefits of the game.
All skill levels welcome!
LANGUAGE
Imparare l’italiano! (Learn Italian!)
Beginning Italian Class
Thurs • 1:30-3pm
Cost: $25 per month/4 classes
Learn Italian with our teacher,
Elizabeth Guagenti. Elizabeth
has a bachelor’s degree in Italian
Language and Literature from UCLA.
The class focuses on Italian language
skills and culture.
SOCIAL GROUPS
French Social Group
Tues • 1-2pm
Contact: Vicky, 457-0586
Come join the French Social group on Tuesday
afternoons and connect with other French speakers in
the community. You don’t need to be fluent, just able to
carry on a conversation!
Conversation Group for 90-Year-Olds & Older
3rd Thursday every month • 1:30-3pm
No cost
Contact: Virginia Dziomba: 456-6647
Join this group for lively conversation. There’s only one
rule: no discussing ailments!
SERVICES
Multicultural Consultation Services
By appointment: 456-9062
No cost for consultations, but a small cost may apply for
translation services.
Whistlestop offers assistance to English and non-English
speakers in Spanish, Russian and Vietnamese. We assist
with applications for many social services: healthcare
management, citizenship, housing, employment, and
federal assistance, translations and referrals.
Spanish: Marta Villela
Russian: Anna Ladyzhenskaya
Vietnamese: Lieu Phan
Immigration Assistance Clinics
Last Friday every month • 9-11:30am
General consultation fee: $30
By appointment only: Call Marta, 454-0998
Whistlestop and Brazil Alliance offer Immigration
assistance consultations regarding Immigration Law and
Reform, DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals)
and citizenship and naturalization.
Telephone Reassurance Program
If you live by yourself and feel isolated, this program is
for you. Trained volunteers will call three times a week to
check in on you. Services also offered in Spanish. Sign up
for this free program; call Leslie Klor, 456-9062, ext. 132.
Homeshare Program
The Homeshare Program is a free referral service for older
adults, which provides an affordable and alternative
way of meeting housing needs with numerous benefits
to renters and homeowners alike. Do you have a room
to share or do you need a place to live? Do you know
someone who could use our services? Call Leslie Klor, 4569062, ext. 132.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
We Need Volunteer Tutors
The multicultural department is looking for volunteer
tutors to help our English students improve their
language skills. This is a great opportunity to help
others better integrate into their community.
Hours are very flexible. If interested, contact Vicky
Voicehowsky, 457-0586.
In-Kind Donations Needed
Mah Jongg sets, Chess set, Dominos, books, yarn, movies on DVDs. If you have items to donate,
call 456-9062.
TECHNOLOGY
Pre-registration and payment
required. To register, 456-9062.
See details of classes online.
How to Use the iPad/iPhone
Maximum 8 people/Minimum 4
Fri, May 16 & 23, 10am-Noon
COST: $48
(For Apple devices only) In this two week course
you’ll get help on everything from email to pictures
and instructional handouts so you can practice at
home.
Computer Tutor
Wed, Noon-1pm (by appointment only)
COST: $20
We offer personalized computer assistance,
troubleshooting and instruction for the PC user,
specializing in assisting older adults and novices.
Teen Tech Support
Maximum 3 people
Every Tues, 3:30-4:30pm
COST: $15/session
Bring your device and your questions to our lab, and
our high school whiz kids will turn your technology
fear into tech savvy. Open every Tuesday, but sign
up in advance, as space is limited.
Open Lab
Every Mon & Wed, 10am-Noon
NO COST
Use our desktops to access the Internet. Volunteer
staff available for advice on problems with your
electronic devices: laptops, tablets. Get help with
software applications.
For additional computer class options at other
locations, go to: www.technology4life.org
Marin County Commission on Aging
Thursday, May 8 • 9 am – 1 pm
Where: Embassy Suites, San Rafael
Topic: Healthy Aging Symposium
Speaker: Keynote, David Lindeman, PhD
whistlestop.org 9
Whistlestop Weekly ACTIVITIES This Month at Whistlestop
MONDAYS
TIME 9–NOON 9:30–10:30AM 10–NOON
10:30AM–1:30PM
11:00–12:10PM
12:15–1:45PM
12:30–1:30PM
9:30–10:30 AM 10:00–NOON WEDNESDAYS
TUESDAYS
10:45–11:45AM
11:30AM–12:30PM
NOON–3PM
1–2PM
1–3PM
1:30–3:30PM
3–4PM 3:30–4:30PM 9–10:15AM
CLASS INFO
COST
Relax Chair Massage Open
$4/8min.
Exercise Zumba Open
$6/$8 Non Members
Learn Computer Lab OpenFree
Language Persian Social Group 472-6020 Free
Exercise Movement & Music 456-9062 Free
Language German Social Group Open
Free
Language Russian Social Group 336-8430 Free
Exercise Whistlesizers Open$2
Relax Mah Jongg OpenFree
Exercise Cardio Exercise ClassOpen
Free
Language French Class
457-0586Free
Relax Manicurist
Appt. Needed Free
Language French Social Group 457-0586
Free
Language Learn Spanish Open
Free
Support Mastery of Aging Class453-9808 Free
Learn Acting Class 456-9062Free
Learn Korean Drumming 456-9062Free
Exercise Tai Chi Qigong 10–11:30AM
Support Seniors' Circle Jackson
Café
Reg.
Required
Sugg. Donation $10 or less
Open
Free
Learn Computer Lab OpenFree
10:30AM–1:30PM Language Persian Social Group 472-6020
Free
10–12PM
10:30–11:30AM Support Corazón LatinoOpen Free
THURSDAYS
9:30–10:30AM Exercise Whistlesizers
1–4PM 11–NOON 12:15–1:45PM
1:30–2:30PM 2:45–3:45PM Open$2
Relax Chair Massage
Open
$4/8 mins.
Exercise Zumba Open
$6/$8 Non Members
Language Vietnamese Social Group 456-9062 Free
Language Learn Italian 456-9062$25/mo
Exercise Balance Class Sugg. Donation$10
Support Brown Bag Pantry 456-9062
Free
1–3PM Support ACASA
Peer Counseling Free
1:30–3:30PM Language Practice Spanish Open
Free
2–4PM
Learn Arts & Crafts w/Vicky May 9 & 23 $3
2–4PM Exercise Ping-Pong May 2, 16 & 30Free
3–4PM
Exercise Yoga Open
$3/$5 Non Members
FRIDAYS
11:00–NOON
For a complete list of all classes, visit whistlestop.org
The Caboose, Computer Lab, Board Room and Jackson Café are all located at Whistlestop’s Active
Aging Center – 930 Tamalpais Ave., San Rafael.
10 WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS MAY 2014
Monday-Friday
11:30am-2pm
Located in Whistlestop
Active Aging Center
• Open to the Public •
LUNCH MENU
WHISTLESTAR MEMBER
(LOWEST PRICE)/
NON-MEMBER OVER 60 /
UNDER 60
Main Entrée
$4.95/$5.95/$6.95
Sandwiches
$4.25/$5.25/$6.25
Soup du Jour
$1.95/$2.95/$2.95 bowl
(yes two prices are the same)
Hamburger w/Fries
$4.50/$5.25/$6.25
Garden/Caesar Salads
$3.50-$4.50
OTHER ITEMS
Tuna Salad Side $1.25
Beverages$1.00
Desserts/Fruit$2.00
Cheese$0.50
Avocado$1.00
The Bird's Side OF MARIN
by R I C H A R D PAV E K
Good News/Bad News
I
’m sorry
to report
that the
single Great
Blue Heron at
Stowe Lake in
Golden Gate
Park has left.
There were reports of four earlier
this year but I only could find
one in mid March and now he is
gone also. And the latest word
from Audubon Canyon Ranch is
no better. As of April 7, they still
had no birds. (A number of their
instructional programs are still
operational, however.) Lastly, the
colony that nests on West Marin
Island in San Rafael Harbor has
not returned this year either.
The good news is from the
Rookery on Ninth Street in San
Rafael, where the population has
quadrupled since I wrote about
the Rookery last month! And
it seems that all the birds are
building nests. The surrounding
trees are being pruned of every
available dead twig and branch
and they’re bringing them from
trees a block or more away.
I plan to lead a group of Whistlestop Express readers to the
Rookery on Saturday morning,
May 10, leaving from the Whistlestop parking lot at 8:30 am.
We’ll be back by Noon or before.
Email me at SHENmaker@MSN.
com to join. It’s free. Or if you
prefer to go alone, email me for a
Map of the Rookery and how to
get there.
I send out a weekly bird photo
to anybody who asks; it’s also
free.
‘Til next time,
Richard
Great Egret
Black-crowned Night Heron
Snowy Egret
Cattle Egret
whistlestop.org 11
Multicultural NEWS
by VICKY VOICEHOWSKY
I
Aging in Community
t used to be that society promoted aging
comfortably and independently at home.
Now, healthy, successful aging happens when
people get involved in their community. It takes
effort and courage to fight isolation as we age,
whether it’s to take on a volunteer opportunity,
join a new social group or activity or simply get
out of the house.
May is full of opportunities at Whistlestop to
support aging in community. In addition to our
usual offerings, health-related events and special
luncheons in May, we celebrate Older Americans
Month, National Senior Health and Fitness Day,
and the start of nice weather in Marin.
Wednesday, May 28, Whistlestop is hosting
an Exercise-athon to promote fitness and health
in observance of National Senior Health and
Fitness Day. You will have the opportunity to
try out any of our fitness classes for free that
day, be part of the active aging movement, and
Skilled Nursing:
Where the
only thing
you have to
worry about is
getting
better.
Recovery from surgery or illness can be
difficult on patients and families. That’s why
there’s NCPHS Medicare Certified skilled
nursing care. At our facilities, patients benefit
from 24/7 post-operative care, wound therapy,
enteral care, pain management and an extra
dose of compassion. Our team includes
RN’s, LVN’s, Certified Nursing Assistants,
Rehabilitation Therapists and Dieticians.
We’re dedicated to helping patients get well,
both physically and emotionally. To learn
more, call 415.351.7956, or email Janey
Dobson, MPH at jdobson@ncphs.org.
A Life Care Community
thetam.org
501 Via Casitas
A Life Care Community
sequoias-pv.org
501 Portola Valley Rd
A Life Care Community
sequoias-sf.org
1400 Geary Boulevard
These not-for-profit communities are part of Northern California Presbyterian Homes and Services.
License #210102761 COA #099 I License #410500567 COA #075 I License # 380500593 COA #097
12
EXPRESS
MAY 2014ME02
Job # / WHISTLESTOP
Name: NCPHS-316 Skilled
Nursing_Whistlestop
Date: 04/10/14
Publication: Alternatives for Seniors
Issue date:
Due at pub: 04/14/14
Maria Lopez and Maria Murcia enjoying each other’s company and the
food at the Mulitcultural Picnic.
receive a free lunch if you bring a ‘new’ friend
with you. Exercising together is more fun, but
it also promotes unity and fights off isolation.
Everyone that day will also receive a cool, free
commemorative t-shirt.
Thursday, May 29, is one of our biggest events
of the year where communities come together
to enjoy a good time. That’s right, it is the
Annual Multicultural Picnic held at Pickleweed
Community Center. Last year, 140 folks from
different cultural backgrounds, languages and
cities came to enjoy a show and picnic food. This
year we will have dancers who will wow you with
their performance and make you move your feet.
We will have healthy and affordable picnic food
and raffle prizes. Our goal is to make this the
biggest and most fun multicultural picnic yet!
Be part of the active aging movement and
encourage others to do the same by getting active
with us. Come join us this May! F
We Help You Move to Your New Retirement Home
You Want a Personal, Respectful Approach
•We cover all phases of moving you to your new
home: from inventory and dispersal of personal
property, to full brokerage and multiple listing
service for your home sale.
•We know that this is a huge transition you are
about to undertake, and are here to help you
sort through the process in a sensitive, caring
manner, and at a pace you can manage.
Estates
Inquire today at (415) 459-6637 or visit http://estatesintransition.com
for details on our exclusive service packages.
SM
Nona Knows Best
by MARY ANN MAGGIORE
Bumper Sticker
Philosophy
Y
ou can get a lot of philosophy from
bumper stickers, don’t you think? “If
you’re not outraged, you’re not paying
attention,” is one of my favorites. “I play the
ukulele and I vote!” cracks me up every time.
Here’s one we all can relate to: “Old age ain’t
for sissies.” What do you think? For me this
last phase of life has just about everything
moving in shifting waves. How’s it going for
you?
I feel best when I keep my body moving.
Scientists are now saying that with cars and
computers so handy, too many of us live a
lifestyle that is essentially “bed rest.” Yikes!
That can’t be good. “Take the stairs not the
elevator!” I command myself at work. Still
many people feel that we should just do
our own thing. One sticker I saw recently
protested: “I’m 70, leave me the hell alone.”
And speaking of work, with the economy
still so tough and so many of us unmarried,
retirement’s nowhere in sight. Another
bumper sticker made me laugh aloud. It said:
“I’m having an out-of-money experience.”
And still another: “I make my own beer, so
I have that going for me.” With sky-high
living costs and shrinking incomes, shall the
communes and shared houses of our youth be
the solutions of our future? Could be fun as
it once was. Or could be super annoying as it
once was, too. Can we go back to adventuring
like that again? One mini-van sign answered
ruefully: “I used to be cool.”
What about families? How’s it going with
yours? Are they launched and out on their
own or do you have children or grandchildren
coming home to stay for the duration? What’s
that like? I passed a grandparent’s car with
this phrase glued to it: “ If Mama ain’t happy,
ain’t nobody happy. If Grandma ain’t happy …
Run!” That’s the spirit!
Yeah, yeah I say to my friends, who are
talking about their hearing loss and their
bad knees and their tremulous memories.
It’s happening. Why make it a topic of
conversation? My friends are starting to
disappear, so I’ve got to make younger friends.
I have a crick in my neck, so I take some
Tylenol. I still read, think, work, learn and
wonder. My neighbor’s bumper message sums
it up nicely: “Enjoy life. It has an expiration
date.” F
Mary Ann Maggiore consults with teens, young
people & their families on building a successful
life. Contact her at:
maryannmaggiore@gmail.com, 577-6627.
A Senior Services Agency
offering
Geriatric Care Management
RN resource specialist and advocate
for seniors and their families
Home Care Aide Services
Full-Service Agency: Agency is Employer; Insured, Bonded
ection Since
1954
prEss
p
Whistlesto E
Marin's Older
unity Conn
Adult Comm
top.org
Whistles
FEBRUA
RY 2013
its
using Un
able Ho
th Afford
pand wi
top to Ex
Whistles
p is plan
histlesto expansion
ning an anticipate
to
project
rT train
ntown sMA transthe dow The plan will
a
station. Whistlestop into
50
form the building with ing for
five-flooraffordable hous
units of ts.
aissance
older adul
top’s ren
idWhistles received cons a
level
has
ding
footprint.
ect
inclu
proj
the rent
Whistlestop
icity,
fic sun
That is
ng of new
erable publy in the paci
$1,040. ed for the 50 one-the
in
Concept drawi
cover stor le in the Mar
envision apartments on
artic
define
s
CEO, Joe
and an
bedroom top site.
Can youable”? Do folk
stlestop
e quesin
IJ. Whi answers som
é
Whistles
“afford be from Mar
a,
kson Caf
?
rth
O’Hehir t the transform
have to to be eligible
Is the Jacbe on the Fou t
buildabou
top
s
to
nty
tion
to this
Cou
Whistles
so, wha the
going
in’s
tt answer
side? If
tion of the er serve Mar
Street benefits be to
The shor is that the apardable
ing to bettts.
will the ity?
question s will be affor whose
older adul
units be
ents
commun to relocate the end
ment rent
housing
to
And
adult resid
is
h
in 30%
Will the or for rent?
to older
Our planCafé to the nort ers
falls with family
son
for sale group?
ian
income
that bord locaJack
med
erty
oom
age
the
nty.
what
in Cou
50% of
one-bedr
of our prop et. This newverfor Mar
ed
ned 50
rent
stre
income affordable if exThe plannts will be offer
Fourth ld increase the ral
is
A unit ty costs do not
apartme al basis. At this s
tion wou the café for seve ,
total
of
know
and utili of a family’s
on a rent e will be no unitAs
satility ns. As many n
rent
.
ceed 30%The monthly onetime ther lable for sale ing
new optio et is the maion page 2
stre
continued
income. utilities for a
made avai e senior housage
Fourth
prodabl
including apartment is
an affor ity, the planned. The
to
be 60+
bedroom range from $624
New
commun
p
Whisents will
jected to
Whistlesto
of resid average age of
Volunteer
current clients is 70.
Housing
tlestop’s
Leader
Workshop
13
9
Send in
ed
Personaliz
Valentines
3
W
Want to
Advertise?
Contact
the Pacific Sun
at 485-6700
for rates and
deadlines
Dignity • Respect • Personal Care • Safety
All Services Managed by Owner
Nancy Mack, RN, PHN, GCM
(415) 457-2256 • HealthCareConnectionLLC.com
whistlestop.org 13
We Care Every Day
In Every Way®
Save The Date
for ‘Whistlestock’ on Sept. 28
Bathing Assistance • Dressing Assistance
Grooming • Assistance with Walking
Medication Reminders • Errands • Shopping
Light Housekeeping • Meal Preparation
Friendly Companionship • Flexible Hourly Care
Respite Care for Families • Live-In Care
(415) 499-1200
www.JMHomecare.com
I
n celebration of Whistlestop’s 60th anniversary this year, we’ll be hosting a
‘60s themed afternoon of rock n’ roll,
BBQ and good times at Rancho Nicasio on
Sept. 28. Our benefit concert, “Whistlestock,” will feature ’60 rock legends like
Big Brother & the Holding Company,
Country Joe McDonald and more!
Stay tuned for future “Whistlestock”
updates in the Whistlestop Express and be
sure to visit whistlestock.com to buy
tickets. F
All Cases are Managed by a Licensed Nurse.
HOURLY AND LIVE-IN
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Light Housekeeping & Laundry
Meal Preparation & Clean Up
Medication Reminders
Personal Care
Respite Care
Wardrobe, Dressing Assistance
Help with Daily Grooming
Toileting Assistance
Help with Ambulation
Bed-bound Assistance
Protective Supervision for those
with Impaired Judgment
• Companionship, Conversation
• Encouraging Hobbies
And much, much more…
When She Needs You
Are You Ready?
Medications. Treatments. Insurance...
There are so many decisions when your loved one faces
challenges. But finding good information isn’t easy. Between
our highly knowledgeable staff and public seminars, we give
you the information you need to make good decisions.
Let us help. Our expert staff can answer your questions.
Call today to schedule your visit.
415.233.6095
almaviaofsanrafael.org
AlmaVia of San Rafael, an Elder Care Alliance community is cosponsored by the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas West
Midwest Community & the Sierra Pacific Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. RCFE Lic # 216801868.
14 WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS MAY 2014
1309216-ECA-AVSR-WhistleStop-1101-3.4479x4.5.indd 1
10/14/13 11:35 AM
Volunteer Team for May
‘Smart’ Spoon Allows Easier
Eating for People with Tremors
T
While studying at MIT in Boston, Meg Margolis
created a new way to relieve pain that teaches
you how to exercise in a supported position. It is
a tool to access the extraordinary repair and pain
relief capacity we were born with. Luckily for us
she brought her technique to California in 1976,
where she has been developing and teaching her
pain programs to community organizations all
around Marin.
Meg Margolis has been teaching the
Whistlesizer class since June and Tony has
been her student for many years. For the past
few months, while Meg was recuperating from
surgery, Tony has taken over teaching the class
and Meg has been his student.
he most common symptoms of
Parkinson’s are related to movement.
The basic act of getting food from plate to
mouth can be difficult and frustrating because
of tremors. LiftLabs, based in San Francisco,
has developed a small device that tracks and
compensates for small vibrations and tremors.
Anupam Pathak, founder and CEO of
LiftLabs, explained that the technology behind
Liftware is similar to the image stabilization
feature in high-end cameras. “What we have
done is taken that same concept and applied it
to a handheld device, that would help people
with a lot larger jitters,” said Pathak. “A tiny
computer inside runs an algorithm, that would
basically sense the person’s motion, determine if
that was intentional or unintended, and if it was
unintended, move opposite to what that motion
does. The result is the device remains smooth
and level, despite the movement of the user’s
arm or hand.” F
Better Care
Starts at Home
Tony Blandino moved to Marin from
Nicaragua in 1978 because the weather, scenery
and trees reminded him of his homeland. Always
an outdoor & sports enthusiast, he was stopped
in his tracks by a serious accident which left
him with considerable pain. His Kaiser doctor
recommended that he consult with Meg and
from that referral, a great partnership was
born. “We are so lucky to have them teaching
at Whistlestop,” says class participant, Shirley
Young. “I look forward to coming twice a week for
the music and yoga-like exercises.”
Their combined knowledge, compassion, and
skill make for a fun and energizing class. Check
out their new website: www.painreliefexercise.
com, which will soon have instructional videos in
both Spanish and English. F
90% of seniors prefer to remain
at home as they age.
Seniors At Home is the leading provider of senior care
in the Bay Area. We help seniors live safer, healthier,
more independent lives in their own homes.
Call 415-449-3777
Seniors �At �Home
B E T T E R C A R E S TA R T S AT H O M E
info@SeniorsAtHome.org • www.SeniorsAtHome.org
whistlestop.org 15
Whistlestop
E PRESS
Marin Senior Coordinating Council
930 Tamalpais Avenue
San Rafael, CA 94901-3325
Whistlestop.org
Do you want the best in home care for your family? Call Home Care Assistance.
“Named national winner of the ‘Best of Home
Care Award’ by Home Care Pulse.”
It starts with our caregivers. We carefully
screen nearly 25 applicants for each caregiver
we hire. Only the best are good enough for
Home Care Assistance!
Hourly caregiving works well for many families.
In this situation we provide trained caregivers on
an hourly basis. Here the caregiver focuses all
her attention exclusively on the senior.
We follow this with extensive training. Finally
we invite geriatric experts to meet with our
caregivers so that they are up-to-date with the
newest ideas about senior care.
Live-in care differs from hourly care in that we
provide personal aides on a daily basis. Live-in
caregivers are often the best choice for those
seniors who need the companionship of another
person, but who do not have intense “all the time”
personal needs.
Hourly and Live-In Care. Our caregiving
services focus on two basic types of care:
hourly and live-in. The service you choose
is determined by your particular needs.
At Home Care Assistance we mean it when we
talk about providing the best in senior care–
whether it is on an hourly basis or a live-in basis.
Meet Francie. Francie Bedinger is the Home Care Assistance Kentfield client
care manager and works directly with clients and their families throughout
Marin County. With a masters in Gerontology, Francie is an expert in health
and wellness for older adults and works hard to ensure her clients are happy
and healthy at all times.
415-532-8626 • HomeCareAssistance.com
919 Sir Francis Drake Blvd. Ste.107, Kentfield, CA 94904
16 WHISTLESTOP EXPRESS MAY 2014