Last issue, Feb/Mar, I talked about the importance of stretching and staying flexible to maintain function. I focused on stretches for the lower body. In this issue, we’re going to look at some upper body stretches.
First, remember to warm your muscles up. You can do arm circles to warm the shoulder joint. Shoulder rolls help to warm up the shoulder girdle (upper back). Shrug your shoulders toward your ears, then roll them back bringing your shoulder blades together, then dropping them down to where you started. Repeat.
Other things to consider is getting enough magnesium, which helps in contraction and relaxation of muscle tissue. Staying hydrated and getting enough healthy oils daily help keep your muscles lubricated & supple for easier stretching.
Join Diane online at www.shapingup808.com, or call 808-221-3905; email shapingup@hawaii.rr.com.
Chest/Front of Shoulder Stretch: Reach back side-ways on the wall and lean in to feel a nice pull. You can reach High, Med & Low for different chest fibers.
Rotator Cuff / Tricep Stretch: Holding a band or towel vertically behind the shoulders, pull up to stretch one side; pull down to stretch the other.
Side Shoulder Stretch: Bring arm across chest, pull in toward your body, keeping your arm straight.To stretch the back of your shoulder, bring your arm up higher.
Forearm Stretches: Bend over onto a chair, rotating the wrist outward. Lean back just enough to feel a pull. Rotate the wrist inward to stretch other side.
Lat Stretch (side of back): Turn top arm in; grab doorway or pole; then pull back and lead with the spine keeping your back flat with butt out. Alternate side.
Spine-on-the-ball Stretch: Opens the vertebrae, internal organs and arteries. (Without a ball, lay on the floor reaching arms out and feet away from center.)
Last issue, Feb/Mar, I talked about the importance of stretching and staying flexible to maintain function. I focused on stretches for the lower body. In this issue, we’re going to look at some upper body stretches. First, remember to warm your muscles up. You can do arm circles to warm the shoulder joint. Shoulder rolls…
For the past 50 years, May has been a month to appreciate and celebrate the vitality and aspirations of older Americans and their contributions to our communities. Many seniors are productive, active, and influential members of society, sharing essential talents, as well as passing on wisdom, and life experience with their families, friends, and neighbors.
With busy lives, it can be hard to find time to volunteer. However, the benefits are enormous to you, your family, and your community. The right match can help you find friends, reach out to the community and even learn new skills.
Volunteers are often the glue that holds a community together. It allows you to connect to your community and make it a better place. However, volunteering is a two-way street. Dedicating your time expands your network and can help you maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Hawai‘i’s BBB recommends taking the four following steps to make sure your time and energy are put to great use as a volunteer:
Identify your skills. Volunteering opportunities are available for any skill level. Consider what you’re good at and what services you’d be particularly well-equipped to provide. From stuffing envelopes to construction, to providing pro bono legal advice, you can find a good fit regardless of your education or talents.
Consider your passions. Maximize your enthusiasm for volunteering by finding an issue that resonates with your own personal passions. If you’re a runner, consider a marathon fundraiser. If you like history, look for opportunities to help out at an archeological dig. By identifying your passions, you’re more likely to stay engaged with the charity and be a more effective volunteer.
Determine your availability. Make a realistic estimate of how much time you’re willing to give. Maybe it’s just a weekend of picking up trash at a park, a week of building schools in a foreign country or maybe you’re willing to make a long-term commitment to tutor someone to read. It’s better to volunteer the amount of time you can reasonably handle, rather than drop out in the middle of a longer commitment.
Research the charity thoroughly. Just as you would before making a cash donation, research the charity fully before you volunteer to make sure the organization has a commitment to standards and accountability. You can contact Hawai‘i’s BBB to hear or get news on local and national BBB charity reviews.
Better Business Bureau, Hawai‘i 808-536-6956 | 877-222-6551 Neighbor Islands
For the past 50 years, May has been a month to appreciate and celebrate the vitality and aspirations of older Americans and their contributions to our communities. Many seniors are productive, active, and influential members of society, sharing essential talents, as well as passing on wisdom, and life experience with their families, friends, and neighbors.…
Yes. Adult Foster Care, also known as the Community Care Foster Family Home (CCFFH), is a program that offers an alternative long-term care option to individuals who are unable to live independently and in need of medical care. This program was created to prevent the institutionalization of older adults and promote quality of life. It’s not only less expensive, but allows aged and disabled persons to reside in homes throughout our community instead of institutional facilities such as nursing homes. The foster home setting provides a home-like environment, where residents receive personalized care and closer relationships with their caregivers.
Each home and its caregivers are licensed under the State of Hawai‘i’s Department of Human Services. Whereby, each home is required to work with a licensed case management agency that provides care coordination, support and ongoing monitoring of the resident and home. A case manager (licensed RN or social worker) provides face-to-face visits with each resident once a month. Interaction between the resident, caregivers and case manager ensures the overall health and well-being of the resident being cared. The CCFFH Program accepts individuals who meet the medical criteria and those covered under Medicaid or that’s privately paying. To find out if you or your loved one is eligible, please see www.humanservices.hawaii.gov/ssd/home/adult-services for more information on the CCFFH Program and for a list of licensed case management agencies.
Nightingale Case Management, Inc. has been a part of the CCFFH Program for over 12 years. For a free assessment and consultation, please contact: (808) 484-2205, nightingalecmi@hotmail.com, or visit www.nightingalecmi.com
Yes. Adult Foster Care, also known as the Community Care Foster Family Home (CCFFH), is a program that offers an alternative long-term care option to individuals who are unable to live independently and in need of medical care. This program was created to prevent the institutionalization of older adults and promote quality of life. It’s…
Many people think that when they retire they would be able to travel, or sit and read a book worry-free. Sadly, many also express that their experience during retirement is not at all that way. Some are caring for spouse’s who have dementia or other mental or physical challenges. Some are fearful that they do not have enough money to last their lifetime. Others face their own mental and/or physical challenges as well.
These challenges can turn into crisis rapidly in all areas of life, including mental, physical, legal, economic, social and spiritual.
Successfully managing these myriad of issues requires family members and their advisors to unify their efforts together in a holistic approach synergistically to ensure that our elders remain safe, healthy and as independent as possible, preserving their dignity for the duration of their life.
For this purpose, engage in a family meeting with all family members, fiduciaries and the financial advisor so that everyone gains an understanding of the estate plan and the underlying intent and wish of the maker of the plan. Not only can this provide for a meaningful discussion, a “circle of trust” can be established to provide protection from anyone outside of this circle attempting to take advantage of our elders.
Many people think that when they retire they would be able to travel, or sit and read a book worry-free. Sadly, many also express that their experience during retirement is not at all that way. Some are caring for spouse’s who have dementia or other mental or physical challenges. Some are fearful that they do…
Change is inevitable. We all experience it on almost a daily basis. How we adapt to that change can make the difference between moving forward — or not. It may be an easier task for seniors to adapt to change that you might think.
For one thing, and I know you have heard a senior friend say this, “I’ve seen it all.” It may not be totally true but simply by the fact that seniors have spent more time on this mortal coil than their juniors, they have seen a lot. When a curve ball is thrown their way, their first thought could very well be, “I’ve seen this one before.” Seniors are better equipped to knock that curve ball out of the park, again just by virtue of having been around the block a time or two. One of my favorite sayings these days, “This isn’t my first rodeo.” Sounds a bit cryptic, but the meaning is basic … it’s going to take a lot to surprise me.
There will always be little bumps and potholes on life’s highway. When I was a teenager, every-thing that happened — EVERYTHING — was a major turning point. Oh, the drama! I get my drama on Netflix these days, and I’m glad about that. There are resources all around that can help seniors cope if they run into a roadblock, if the change seems just too much to handle. One of those resources is this very magazine. I’m so proud to be a part of it and I want that association to go on for a long time.
Change is inevitable.
How we handle that change will certainly make a difference in our lives and in the lives of those around us.
Change is inevitable. We all experience it on almost a daily basis. How we adapt to that change can make the difference between moving forward — or not. It may be an easier task for seniors to adapt to change that you might think. For one thing, and I know you have heard a senior friend say…
On deck (row 1): Beatrice Kong, Eleanor Takahama, Erin Berhman (row 2): Wally Kawachi, Jan Youth In the pool (top–bottom): Ruby Hayasaka, Lilian “Lee” Deir, Bev Coito
For generations, the Y has provided a place of wellness and community bonding for Oahu residents from across the island’s economic, social and age groups. In keeping with this tradition, the Y is now making a name for itself among local seniors. With similar activities specifically design for them, the overall experience remains, well … fun!
As a result, more and more seniors have been joining the Y for fun, health and social activity.
Michael Broderick, CEO of the YMCA Honolulu
“Yes, physical fitness is a key component of the Y’s approach to providing senior services, but that’s only the beginning,” says Michael Broderick, CEO of the YMCA Honolulu. “One of the things I love about the Y is the social and emotional benefits it gives our seniors and how much it means to them to stay healthy, active and involved.”
“When most people think of seniors and the Y, they only think of our healthy living focus,” Broderick says. “But we also have two other focus areas — youth development and social responsibility. Y seniors are able to get involved with the latter two areas because of the inter-generational makeup of Y members.
“Think about it. How many other places can you find 4 year olds learning how to dance hula, folks in their 90s playing bingo, and every age and activity in between — all happening in the same place and at the same time? Our seniors teach our keiki so much, and our keiki bring our seniors much joy. And that exchange is really a neat thing.”
The focus on seniors comes at an opportune time, when the number of Hawai‘i seniors is growing at an unprecedented rate. And the Y is ready! Offering an impressive breadth and depth of senior oriented programs and classes designed specifically to fit the interests, needs and unique abilities of seniors.
Erin Berhman has been the Senior Healthy Lifestyle Director for the Y for the last eight years and part of the organization since 1995. “The underlying idea is to help our seniors build healthy bodies, minds and spirits through an array of fitness and exercise classes, as well as social activities, specialty classes and arts and crafts,” Berhman says. “And it’s not just the number of classes and events that we offer that’s important, but it’s the way in which we’ve made them more senior friendly. That includes making it easier for them to get started through one-on-one orientations and friendly and knowledgeable trainers available on our fitness and exercise machine floors to help them.”
Staying active is not only good for the body —it’s also good for the mind and spirit. Social events, such as potlucks, bingo, bridge, flower arranging, crafts, cooking demos and even hiking, help Y seniors build friendships and ties that last a lifetime.
“I’ve watch smaller groups within the classes form that are very tight knit and become like second families,” she says. “You can literally feel it in the air. When someone doesn’t show up, there is immediate concern among the others.”
Volunteer Aunty Carolee and her ku¯puna volunteers can be found almost daily at the Nu’uanu Y teaching a variety of Hawaiian cultural activities!
Berhman believes much of this camaraderie and compassion begins with the Y’s instructors and staff members.
“Some of our instructors are among the most passionate teachers I have ever seen,” she says. “They love what they do and build a strong connection with their students.”
The gift of the kupuna
Carolee Nishi has been engaged and enamored with her involvement with the Y and community for 45 years. This spritely ku¯puna shares her gifts of aloha in the Hawaiian Studies program at the Nu‘uanu YMCA. Every day, participants from 3 to 85 are learning to dance hula, sing and play the ‘ukulele, as well as Hawaiian language and culture.
Generations of girls and boys have flourished under “Aunty Carolee’s” disciplined and loving guidance. She credits the success to her ku¯puna volunteers and the children in the program.
Volunteer George Kam teaches speed boxing for free to any Y member who wants to learn.
Like Nishi, George Kam has been volunteering at the Nu‘uanu Y since his retirement in 1986. An avid speed bag (boxing) fan all of his life, he now dedicates three days a week at the Y to teach a “George’s speed bag club” class.
George has trained people of all ages —even a couple in their 80s. Teaching speed boxing is what George says keeps him young. He says it’s a blessing every day — he gets to meet new people, help people with a variety of problems — he never knows who will walk through his door.
Having fun is ageless
Zumba Aqua classes in the warm pools at the Windward, Leeward, Nu’uanu, Kaimuki¯ and Central Y’s are popular!
Maggie Boloson is a mermaid. You can often find her in the Leeward YMCA pool swimming with other mermaids. But Maggie and her swimming buddies are not your stereotypical movie mermaids. Michael Broderick, president and CEO of YMCA of Honolulu, explains:
“I was at the Leeward Y not long ago and a ‘seasoned’ woman came up to me, and asked who I was. After I identified myself, she gently took my arm and told me with a smile that she was a ‘mermaid’ and wanted me to meet the other mermaids. She then introduced me to three other equally charming ladies.”
“Aunty Maggie,” as the Leeward staff affectionately calls Boloson, went on to tell Broderick that the Y has become a very important part of her life, and that she comes to the Y every day. In fact, Boloson is not only a regular swimmer at the Leeward Y pool, but also participates in a number of the Y programs designed for seniors, including Total Body Conditioning and Zumba Gold. But her real passions are the Leeward Y Group Interaction potlucks and Y Bingo days.
“All of our branches are full of people like Maggie, whose lives are deeply integrated into the fabric of the Y,” Broderick says. “They are living proof that the Y is first and foremost about community.”
Beatrice Kong loves the social and health aspects of Tai Chi.
Beatrice Kong, 82, of Alewa Heights is a retired public school teacher and administrator who attends tai chi classes at the Nu‘uanu YMCA.
She speaks warmly about tai chi instructor Tom Amina’s passion for teaching, his endless patience, and willingness to volunteer his services not only at the Y but throughout the community.
“Tommy’s such an outstanding instructor who brings out the best in all of us,” Kong says.
Tai Chi instructor Tommy Amina says Tai Chi is beneficial for seniors of all ages and abilities!
“I can’t tell you how much I look forward to his classes. I appreciate all that the Y has to offer.” Beatrice appreciates the relaxing and comfortable environment for meeting old friends as well as making new ones.
She says that tai chi provides her with many health benefits, especially maintaining her flexibility and providing her with endless energy to do all the things she loves. “I live alone but I like my independence. That’s why I need to take care of my health,” Kong says. She says taking tai chi also improves her coordination, posture and balance, and eases her fear of falling — a fear shared by many seniors.
Wally Kawachi used to harbor a different fear. Four years ago, he could barely climb a stair. After heart surgery, his doctor told him to go to a Y and get some exercise. He did, and has been religiously going five days a week to the Kaimuki¯ Y to work on the treadmill and exercise machines. Today, at 91, his kids say he walks like a young man.
Wally Kawachi, 90, works out 5 days a week at the Kaimuki¯ Y. His kids say he now walks like a young man.
Kawachi is just one of 16 active members who are part of Kaimuki¯ Y’s Over 90 Club. They’re living proof that it’s never too late to get fit. You can’t have fun if you’re not fit.
Berhman says that maintaining an active lifestyle is important for people of all ages, but especially for seniors whose health is often susceptible to injuries and illnesses. Regular exercise can boost energy; reduce risk of heart disease, diabetes and even help manage symptoms of chronic illnesses such as Parkinson Disease, arthritis, diabetes or pain.
According to Berhman, Zumba Gold sessions are the Y’s most popular and fastest growing classes. They are followed by tai chi and aqua classes in the Y’s heated pools — all designed with seniors in mind. For example, aqua Zumba, Pilates and tai chi are great fitness alternatives for those with fragile joints.
The Y has also been adding classes under its Chronic Diseases Program. It includes a fitness program for seniors suffering from Parkinson’s Disease that has been offered for the past two years at the Windward Y with great success. Thanks to a $10,000 contribution from the
National Parkinson Foundation–Hawai‘i, the program will be expanded to all eight Oahu YMCA branches as a weekly class by this summer.
Ruby Hayasaka learned to swim at the Y at age 60 and lost 140 pounds!
Similarly, the Y has started a GlucoFitClub™ to help fight diabetes. The program offers people with diabetes or pre-diabetes a uni-que and fun way to improve their health, track their blood sugar, lose weight and get fit.
GlucoFitClub includes a membership, special fitness classes, one-on-one counseling with a fitness trainer, nutrition classes, a free glucometer, glucose monitoring and discounted glucose strips — all for one monthly fee.
The program is currently offered at the Y’s Leeward, Nu‘uanu and Windward branches. Just three months old, the GlucoFitClub program has already been generating some amazing results. “We have GlucoFitClub members who have dropped their blood sugar rates by a 100 points, have lost weight and feel great—all while having fun and meeting new friends at our GlucoFitClub classes,” says Berhman.
“While some seniors may experience health or chronic disease challenges, it doesn’t mean they can’t stay healthy and fit. With a little creativity, sensitivity and compassion, interesting and satisfying classes are offered at the Y to meet their physical, mental and social needs.”
“There is an ever increasing need to help seniors to not only stay healthy in body, mind and spirit, but to keep them active as an integral part of our ‘ohana and community,” Broderick adds.
“Retiring doesn’t have to mean closing up shop. Rather, it should mean an opportunity to fully enjoy life. We want to provide those with the most knowledge, expertise and experience the chance to use their skills and leadership to help others; and to contribute to society in new, exciting and meaningful ways.
“That is my definition of retirement,” says Broderick, “and that’s what makes it fun … and truly golden.”
Membership Classes & Activities
Membership at the Y offers complete access to all eight YMCA workout facilities on Oahu, including their heated pools and aqua exercise classes.
ACTIVE OLDER ADULT (AOA) FITNESS
Specific to seniors. Classes cover balance, agility, cardio and strength training. Classes are easy on the joints and back, simple to follow and range from low to moderate levels:
Level I & II — From a beginner chair class that utilizes various pieces of equipment to a 45-minute moderate level exercise class.
AQUATICS H2O PROGRAMS (in the pool)
H2O, H2O Arthritis, H2O Pilates — A variety of low-impact pool classes offer both aerobic and strength benefits utilizing aqua bells, noodles and joggers. Classes focus on stretching and core strength, while helping with weight loss, injury recovery and special conditions. (Cover-ups in pool are acceptable.)
Aqua Zumba — Most popular low-impact & high-resistance of water exercise. And definitely fun!
MIND, BODY & SPIRIT
Hatha Yoga — This is a “gentle yoga” with slow transitions, with emphasis on stretching & breathing; improving posture, alignment and balance.
Pilates — Pilates (derived from gymnastics, ballet and yoga) helps with overall strength and posture.
Qi Gong — Qi means energy. It involves coordination of breathing patterns, postures and motions.
Stretch and Relax — Enjoy full body stretches, breathing techniques and restorative poses that help with balance, flexibility and relaxation.
Stretching Classes & Meditation — Transcend to a level where mind and body becomes one.
Tai Chi — Often referred to as “Chinese Yoga” or moving meditation, Tai Chi uses movement to find your inner energy.
Tai Chi/Arthritis, Tai Chi Yoga Flow — Designed for people with arthritis to reduce pain and improve health — a gentler form without the deep bends. Slow moving hands, stepping and body weight transfer and some balancing postures.
SPECIALTY FORMATS
Beginning Boxing — Learn true boxing techniques, drills and training with our professional teachers. Gloves and hand wraps are required.
Belly Dancing, Line Dancing, Salsa — From East to West, unleash your creative spirit! Low-impact aerobics, but with a fun twist.
Zumba Gold — Same fun and energy of Zumba (cardio-fusion dance), with more modifications.
SPECIAL PROGRAMS
YMCA’s GlucoFitClub™ Diabetes Program (Nu‘uanu, Leeward and Windward only) — As a complete package to manage diabetes, the program reduces blood sugar, lowers weight/bmi, body fat and blood pressure. You’ll benefit with a Blood Sugar Tracking Glucometer, glucose test strips, nutrition, diabetes classes and counseling and specially tailored GlucoFit exercise classes.
Parkinson Disease Fitness Classes (Windward) — Specially designed to work on balance and fitness to minimize the effects of the disease.
ADD TO YOUR REPERTOIRE
Each Y branch offers special events and educational programs. Here’s a sample for this spring, April through June. Call your local Y for details.
Life in Balance class • Lunch & Learn Series • Conquering Stress • Bingo & Snack Potluck • Potluck & Lecture • Quick Fits Fitness Assessments • Group Hike • Book of the Month Club • Fall Prevention• Hypertension Explained • Go Get Outside • Health Care Fraud Prevention • Healthy Eating Island Style • Brain Fitness
AFFORDABLE MEMBERSHIP FOR ALL!
Senior Rates:
$47 per month first year
$41 per month second year
Financial Assistance: Sliding scale rate based on income level
Free Membership with Medicare Plan Benefits: AlohaCare, Ohana Health and UnitedHealthcare (selected plans), HMSA (SilverSneakers®), Humana (SilverSneakers®), Kaiser (Silver&Fit®). Please check with your health plan provider for details.
For generations, the Y has provided a place of wellness and community bonding for Oahu residents from across the island’s economic, social and age groups. In keeping with this tradition, the Y is now making a name for itself among local seniors. With similar activities specifically design for them, the overall experience remains, well … fun!
Many people save time by going online to take care of everyday tasks. For example, they shop online to avoid going to crowded malls or stores. They pay bills and check their account balances online to save a trip to the bank.
It’s true of Social Security business, too. You can save a lot of time by visiting www.socialsecurity.gov. Here, you can handle much of your Social Security business quickly and securely from your home or office computer. At the Social Security website you can:
create a my Social Security account for quick access to your information
get an instant, personalized estimate of your future Social Security benefits
apply for various things such as retirement, disability, spouses, and Medicare benefits
check the status of your benefit application
change your address and phone number, if you receive monthly Social Security benefits
sign-up for direct deposit of SSA benefits
use our benefit planners to help you better understand your Social Security options as you plan for your financial future
request a replacement Medicare card
apply for Extra Help with your Medicare prescription drug costs
Looking for more Social Security information? Go online to find out almost anything you need to know about the Social Security program. Information is available on subjects ranging from how to get a Social Security number for a newborn to returning to work while receiving disability benefits.
And since April 22 is Earth Day, here’s another tip: going online is good for the planet. It saves more than just your time — it also saves paper, emissions and energy.
If you need to reach us by phone, call toll-free at 1-800-772-1213. We treat all calls confidentially. We can answer specific questions from 7 a.m.– 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Generally, you’ll have a shorter wait time if you call during the week after Tuesday. We can provide information by automated phone service 24 hours a day. (You can use our automated response system to tell us a new address or request a replacement Medicare card.) If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you may call our TTY number, 1-800-325-0778.
No matter how you choose to contact us, Social Security is here to assist you. We encourage you to give our website a try. You’ll get fast, convenient service.
Many people save time by going online to take care of everyday tasks. For example, they shop online to avoid going to crowded malls or stores. They pay bills and check their account balances online to save a trip to the bank. It’s true of Social Security business, too. You can save a lot of…
April is Encore Entrepreneur Mentor Month and AARP Hawaii, the Filipino Community Center and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are teaming up to help Hawai‘i residents age 50+ interested in starting their own small business or expanding an existing business.
Entrepreneur Mentor Day will be held at the Filipino Community Center in Waipahu from 9 –11 a.m. The event features a panel of seasoned entrepreneurs and business experts who will share their experience and offer advice on such topics as writing a business plan, seeking start-up capital and finding helpful resources from the SBA and other organizations. To register, go to aarp.cvent.com/encoreentrepreneur or call toll-free 1-877-926-8300.
Many Hawai‘i residents are rethinking their retirement goals — either for financial reasons or to stay active and engaged in their senior years. Some are testing the entrepreneurial waters to follow through on a business idea they’re passionate about but never acted upon.
“Many new entrepreneurs are saving their best acts for their encore performance,” said AARP Hawai‘i State President Gerry Silva. “They’re using their decades of expertise and their connections to start new businesses and to finally pursue that venture that has been stirring their dreams for all these years. Encore Entrepreneur Mentor Day will link Hawai‘i entrepreneurs with experienced business owners who can help transform these dreams into a reality.”
New research has found that one in four Americans between the ages 44 and 70 are interested in starting their own business or nonprofit venture in the next five to 10 years. Nearly half of these aspiring entrepreneurs have reported a desire to start a business with a positive social impact.
Encore Entrepreneur Mentor Day is part of a larger national effort by SBA and AARP to counsel more than 100,000 entrepreneurs and small business owners over the age of 50. During the month of April, events will help connect encore entrepreneurs with mentors such as those from SBA’s network of Small Business Development Centers, Women’s Business Centers, and SCORE chapters who can help throughout the life of an entrepreneur’s business.
In addition, AARP has launched a dedicated webpage containing a wealth of advice for new and existing older entrepreneurs with links to a 50+ toolkit that includes free online courses targeted at helping encore entrepreneurs start or grow their business. For this and other resources available for entrepreneurs over the age of 50, visit www.aarp.org/startabusiness or call 1-888-OUR-AARP.
April is Encore Entrepreneur Mentor Month and AARP Hawaii, the Filipino Community Center and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are teaming up to help Hawai‘i residents age 50+ interested in starting their own small business or expanding an existing business. Entrepreneur Mentor Day will be held at the Filipino Community Center in Waipahu from…
Spring is here and it’s time to get moving! More and more research is telling us that as we age, we need to get in shape to stay out of the hospital. Generations Magazine will feature more proactive resourceful information to do just that. As a baby boomer, I have begun my quest to keep myself healthy and help my peers to do the same.
Thanks to the YMCA, we can all do more to live active lives. As the Y’s CEO Michael Broderick points out, exercising is only the beginning. The Y also offers many social and emotional benefits, especially for seniors who enjoy the Y’s activities and cultural classes…and making friends along the way.
If you are 65 or turning 65, remember that some Medicare plans offer free YMCA membership. Yes, free membership. Check with your plan and ask for all the benefits. If you are one of the 86,000-plus older residents in Hawai‘i, check out the YMCA.
Percy, Dan, Les (Dad), Shirley (Mom), Sherry, Arlene and Cathy; missing is Les, Jr.
With Mother’s Day right around the corner, I wanted to send my thoughts and thanks to my mother, Shirley Ihara. My mom raised my brood of siblings with never ending care, instilling values and endless love to us all. To this day, I don’t know how she did it all—the grocery shopping, cooking, cleaning, vacuuming, laundry, chauffeuring, assisting with our homework and traveling around the country lugging six kids for more than 30 years as my father was a career Army officer. Can you imagine that? I still remember my mom’s words “We will always love and be here for you.” Mom, I send you my love, along with my siblings, and all of your 14 grandkids and four great-grandchildren send their love on Mother’s Day!
And lastly, SAVE THESE DATES!
ARTHRITIS WALK–May 5th at Kaka‘ako Waterfront Park 7:30a.m.–11a.m.
Join in for great fun, resourceful information and for a wonderful cause.
For details call the Arthritis Foundation at 596-2900.
2013 Elderhood Project’s 7th Annual “AGING IN PLACE” WORKSHOP August 9th at the Ala Moana Hotel 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Come listen to presentations on Financial/Legal Issues, Caregiving Resource’s, Healthy Living Tips and State/Federal Programs for Seniors and their families.
Live Well,
Percy Ihara, Editor/Publisher
Spring is here and it’s time to get moving! More and more research is telling us that as we age, we need to get in shape to stay out of the hospital. Generations Magazine will feature more proactive resourceful information to do just that. As a baby boomer, I have begun my quest to keep myself…
Some 26 million Americans suffer from Chronic Kidney Disease (CDK), but experts predict this number will rise due to high obesity rates (approximately one-third of all adults) and high blood pressure. Both of these are risk factors for CKD. The aging of baby boomers will also increase this number because age over 60 is also a risk factor for CKD, making kidney disease a very important issue for seniors.
Most people have no symptoms until CKD is advanced. If you wait until you have symptoms to be tested, you’ve waited too long. Therefore, taking care of overall health should not be postponed. Wise practices for seniors include exercising regularly, a low-salt diet, controlling weight, monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose levels, not smoking, drinking moderately, avoiding non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and getting an annual physical.
For spring cleaning, start in the kitchen to take steps toward kidney health. Get ready to clear out some common grocery items that could be wrecking your kidneys. The kidneys work 24/7 to clean out toxins in the body, so keep them healthy by cleaning out your kitchen. Now is the perfect time to trash the following:
SALT SHAKER. Believe it or not, Americans today consume 50% more than the recommended daily amount of sodium. Diets high in sodium increase blood pressure levels and high blood pressure damages the kidneys over time. It’s 2,300 mg of sodium (or 1 teaspoon of salt) per day that should be the limit.
RED MEAT. High protein diets, especially those containing large quantities of animal protein, may harm the kidneys. Red meat is also high in saturated fat—another no–no.
SODA. Sugar-sweetened beverages, such as sodas are high calorie and contain no nutritious value. These beverages are linked to the presence of protein in the urine, one of the earliest signs of kidney disease. Colas also have phosphorus
additives which can harm the kidneys.
PROCESSED FOOD. Crackers, potato chips, deli meats, cheese spreads, instant potato mix are all examples of processed foods that are high in sodium and phosphorus additives — both which can have negative effects on the kidneys.
SUGAR. An overdose of sugar can lead to health problems such as diabetes and obesity. As these are risk factors for kidney disease, eliminating or reducing sugar intake can reduce your kidney risk as well.
With CKD, there are many dietary considerations and options. On the Internet, search for “kidney friendly recipes” to discover a wealth of helpful information. Start with our own Calabash Cookbook at www.kidneyhi.org/index.php?cid=16. Pay special attention to foods recommended for kidney patients and consult an expert if you are already diagnosed with CKD, because diets are especially critical for different stages of the disease.
National Kidney Foundation of Hawaii 1314 South King St., #304, Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96814 808.589.5976 info@kidneyhi.orgwww.kidneyhi.org
Some 26 million Americans suffer from Chronic Kidney Disease (CDK), but experts predict this number will rise due to high obesity rates (approximately one-third of all adults) and high blood pressure. Both of these are risk factors for CKD. The aging of baby boomers will also increase this number because age over 60 is also…
According to the U.S. 2010 Census, there were more than 2.7 million households with grandparents raising their grandchildren … and growing. As grandparents age, raising children can sometimes be challenging. Grandparents need to take care of themselves mentally, physically and spiritually, as it is vital to overall health and to live prosperous lives raising healthy grandchildren.
Grandparents often step in because of the “missing generation” of parents who are unable to care for their own children because of their immaturity, substance abuse, domestic violence, AIDS or death.
How could grandparents adapt to this new role?
Get help and support, join a support group.
Stay healthy by getting regular check ups.
Remember your age. Acknowledge how you feel and your capabilities.
Encourage open and honest communication.
Don’t neglect the relationship with your spouse.
Make it legal, seek advice of an attorney.
Find out about public assistance.
Take advantage of tax breaks.
Start an education fund.
Stay positive. Focus on creating a stable environment.
What programs are available in Hawai‘i?
Foster Grandparent Program is a part-time volunteer program that enrolls eligible low income seniors statewide to assist children with special needs. Stipends are provided. 808-832-5167.
Grandparents Support Group at the Queen Lili‘uokalani Children’s Center conducts support groups for grandparents raising grandchildren. 808-235-7613.
Hawai‘i Family Services, Inc. provides information on program services for grandparents providing care to grandchildren. 808-696-3482.
Na Tutu is an advocacy group comprised of grandparents, relatives and organizations concerned with issues facing the caregiving of children. 808-239-8908.
PATCH provides information on licensed day care centers. 808-839-1988.
Senior Helpline provides information on grandparent support groups, legal services and housing assistance. 808-768-7700.
The Parent Line provides resources for caregivers and children. 808-526-1222.
Tutu Support Group offers emotional support, counseling and information for grandparents caring for children. 808-696-3482.
Tutu and Me is a mobile preschool program targeting Hawaiian communities. 808-524-7633.
According to the U.S. 2010 Census, there were more than 2.7 million households with grandparents raising their grandchildren … and growing. As grandparents age, raising children can sometimes be challenging. Grandparents need to take care of themselves mentally, physically and spiritually, as it is vital to overall health and to live prosperous lives raising healthy grandchildren. Grandparents…
Like many retirees and widows, Margaret has been relying on a fixed income. Suddenly, she receives a letter from the pension company stating that her monthly pension of $800 was an error and will be reduced to pay back a $4,000 overpayment.
The pension is Margaret’s only income and already doesn’t cover basic living expenses. She recently moved in with her elderly father, has no medical insurance, is a month behind on her car payment, and visits food closets for groceries.
Unable to afford an attorney, Margaret turns to the Western States Pension Assistance Project (WSPAP), a federally funded program that provides free pension assistance by phone to people who live or have worked in Hawaii, California, Arizona or Nevada. The counseling project, one of seven nationwide funded by the U.S. Administration on Aging, serves all ages and income levels.
“Pension law is complicated, and many retirees, surviving spouses and their family members are not able to afford to hire an attorney when a problem occurs,” said attorney Parisa Ijadi-Maghsoodi, who directs the project. “We provide vital legal assistance to hundreds of workers and their families, many of whom would otherwise have little or no access to expert advice regarding their retirement benefits. Since the project started in 2007, we have helped retirees and surviving spouses access more than $10 million in retirement benefits that they earned.”
In Margaret’s case, WSPAP successfully represented the senior before the pension plan, defending against the recovery of the overpayment. The company agreed to waive the overpayment and restore Margaret’s monthly benefit.
Many people contact WSPAP after trying unsuccessfully to track down pension benefits from a company that no longer exists, whether due to a bankruptcy, a merger or a sale.
“We do a lot of detective work,” Ijadi-Maghsoodi said. “In order to find lost pensions, we conduct extensive research, review pension plan documents, file FOIA requests, write letters and make many phone calls.”
Language access can make it difficult for clients with limited English proficiency to receive the pension that they or a spouse earned. A 76-year-old widow called WSPAP after trying unsuccessfully for three months to get her small survivor benefit started. The woman, who was living on a small Social Security check, spoke very limited English. Before passing away, the widow’s husband had hand-written a letter for her to sign and submit to the plan in the event of his death to ensure that she would receive her survivor annuity. Her husband died in September but by late January, the plan had still not started her benefit — or even told her when it might start.
Attorney Ijadi-Maghsoodi intervened, asserting the client’s right to the survivor annuity and informing the plan that ignoring the widow’s claim for survivor benefits violated federal law. Within two weeks, the plan distributed a retroactive payment for the payments she should have received. In addition, she will receive a survivor annuity for the rest of her life.
After assisting hundreds of people with pension problems, the Western States Pension Assistance Project attorneys have a few tips:
Keep all documents related to your pension or retirement savings account.
Never destroy old tax records.
Think carefully before taking a lump sum instead of a monthly pension.
Do not give up your right to a survivor benefit through your spouse’s pension plan unless you have enough retirement income of your own to live comfortably after your spouse’s death.
For more tips and fact sheets, visit the Pension Rights Center online at www.pensionrights.org. For help with your pension, please contact the Western States Pension Assistance Project toll free at 866-413-4911.
Like many retirees and widows, Margaret has been relying on a fixed income. Suddenly, she receives a letter from the pension company stating that her monthly pension of $800 was an error and will be reduced to pay back a $4,000 overpayment. The pension is Margaret’s only income and already doesn’t cover basic living expenses.…
According to the U.S. 2010 Census, there were more than 2.7 million households with grandparents raising their grandchildren … and growing. As grandparents age, raising children can sometimes be challenging. Grandparents need to take care of themselves mentally, physically and spiritually, as it is vital to overall health and to live prosperous lives raising healthy grandchildren.