December 10, 2020
Mike
December
BOONE COUNTY
SENIOR LIVING A MONTHLY FOUR PAGE SECTION FOR SENIORS
Keep Safety In Mind When Decorating For The Holidays Decorations help make the holiday season a magical time of year. Stores are awash in color & twinkling lights, & similar imagery is on display in private homes. Designing holiday displays can be a great way for families to spend time together & kick off the celebration. In fact, according to Electrical Safety Foundation International, around 90% of Americans decorate their homes for the holidays. When trimming the tree & decorating this holiday season, families must keep safety in mind. A little planning & some precautionary measures can ensure displays are enjoyed all season long. Travelers Insurance offers the following holiday decorating safety tips. • Do not overload outlets. Plan displays according to the number and location of available outlets. • Never exceed the maximum number of light strands that can be attached together. • Use lights and products that have been tested for safety. Certification marks like UL, ETL and CSA are from nationally recognized laboratories. • LED lights should be used when possible. Such lights consume less energy & run cooler than other bulbs. • The ESFI says candles start almost 50% of all decoration fires. Minimize the risk by using candles only when they can be monitored. Artificial candles can be used in place of real candles. • Check for freshness in live trees. A fresh tree will last longer & is less of a fire hazard than an old tree. • Place Christmas trees at least three feet away from all heat sources, including fireplaces & heaters. • Use decorations that are non-combustible or made from flame-resistant materials. • Pay attention to the age recommendations of decorations to see if they can be used in homes with young children. Some items, however common, are choking or strangulation hazards. • Exercise caution when hanging decorations at high heights. Make sure the ladder is secured & have a spotter who can hold the ladder & pass items up safely. • Outdoor electric lights & decorations should be plugged into circuits protected by ground fault circuit interrupters, or GFCIs. • Exercise caution when decorating near power lines that extend to the house. • Keep hung stockings far away from open flames so they do not catch any errant embers.
Christmas Tree Recycling When choosing a real Christmas tree for holiday celebrations, consumers should think about the many ways that trees can be repurposed after the holiday season. Some towns collect discarded trees to use them for various purposes. However, homeowners can get in on the action as well. The Old Farmer’s Almanac offers these great ideas for post-holiday tree use. • Prop up the tree near a bird feeder to provide another perch and shelter to birds that stick close to home in winter, such as chickadees and finches. • String the tree with various treats for birds & put it in a sheltered location. Ideas include homemade suet, cranberries & millet. • Mulch the tree & use it in the garden in the spring. • Use boughs to insulate perennials in the garden. • Keep some branches to use as kindling, or as aromatic logs for next year’s yule fire. • Sink an old tree in a personal pond. Fish & tadpoles will live & lay eggs around this sheltered area. • Collect some pine needles & sew them into fabric packets to make scented sachets for closets or drawers. There are many imaginative uses for Christmas trees once the holiday season ends.
We don’t rent rooms, we enrich lives! “So thankful I found Crimson Pointe. The staff is very caring and kind. The maintenance director put dad’s scooter together and Physical Therapy is helping dad. Thank you for caring for my dad, I have peace of mind.”
Page 7
Home caregiver for son, Brian
supporting
First in
you at home
Caring for a loved one at home can be one of the hardest roles you’ll face in life — especially now. Northern Illinois Hospice is here for you with the expert support you and your loved one need, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Visit northernillinoishospice.org or call us at 815.398.0500 © Northern Illinois Hospice 2020
Belvidere Family
YMCA
• For Youth Development • For Healthy Living • For Social Responsibility
815-547-5307
• Programs Recommended By Arthritis Foundation • Fitness Center With Trained Staff • Fitness Classes Free With Membership • 85 Degree Swimming Pool • Adult Lap & Open Times Throughout The Day • Discounted And Subsidized Memberships • Silver Sneakers And Silver & Fit Accepted
220 West Locust, Belvidere, IL 61008 www.belviderefamilyymca.org
Free Consultation • Wills • Trusts • Probate • Powers of Attorney • Nursing Home Planning • Real Estate
John H. Maville Attorney At Law 815-544-3165 www.mavillelaw.com Suite 307, 600 S. State, Belvidere
Power Recliner By We Also Carry Lift Chairs By Ultra Comfort & Best Craft
815.398.7792 lifeatcrimsonpointe.com FURNITURE
7130 Crimson Ridge Dr. Rockford, IL 61107
315 S. State St. • Belvidere • 815-547-6672 HOURS: Mon.-Thurs. 9-5; Fri. 9-7; Sat. 9-4; Closed Sun.
Page 8
December 10, 2020
BOONE COUNTY
Inside O’Brien’s Pharmacy
SENIOR LIVING A MONTHLY FOUR PAGE SECTION FOR SENIORS
Print • Pack • Ship • Shred • Mailboxes
Do They Know Your Story?
DISPILL Medication Packaging System
Article Submitted By: Maria Kresal - Heritage Woods Of Belvidere Jean and Frank, Ruth and Robert. Those are the names of my grandparents. Most of us know at least, that much about our grandparents. I am sad to say I do not know very much about mine. I know they loved me. I know what they did for a living & the families they raised. But I don’t know very much about the people they were. I wish they were still here to ask them what their favorite foods were, what was their favorite story from school. I give you the advice to share your story with your family. It has always been a priority to me that my children spend time with their grandparents. Quality time, getting to know each other. Does your family know your story? So many hours, days, weeks, years are filled with empty moments, let’s give purpose to that time. Leave behind your story for another generation to carry on. The holidays are coming, what a special gift you could give someone, of your memories. Whether you spend the day talking about memories or record a video of yourself talking about your life. Have a grandchild that is tech savvy help you, what a great bonding time that would be. Don’t be afraid to start, not sure what to talk about? Start anywhere. We all have a story to tell. A special time in our lives. Share a favorite memory you have of your parents, or siblings. A special trip you took, an honor you received. Life is long & full of challenges, adventures & passions. Were you part of a club, organization, a church? Maybe you were a crafter, carver, singer, sewer, artist or a gardener. We mean so much to our families, after all they would not be here if two people hadn’t fallen in love. Share the story of how you met your spouse. Share all about your wedding day. When you found out you were expecting. Telling your story is a great way to share the gift of your life, so don’t hesitate. Start today.
This Month’s Healthy Recipe Weeknight Skillet Lasagna
Directions
The UPS Store®
Ingredients 8 oz. lasagna noodles (half of standard 16 oz. pkg. of noodles) 15-16 oz. container part-skim ricotta or cottage cheese 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried basil
Recipe Provided By The U of I Extension Office
1 clove garlic, minced or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1 jar spaghetti sauce (20-24 oz.) low sodium preferred 1 pkg. (16 oz.) frozen broccoli cuts, thawed & drained 1/2 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded
To Prevent Your Loved One From Missing Medications Or Taking Too Much. Filled Directly By Our Pharmacist, So There Are No Mistakes. Your Co-Pay Is The Same Anywhere You Go. So Why Not Support Your Local Pharmacy?
• Competitive Pricing • Personalized Patient • We Accept All Major Insurance Consultations • Diabetic Shoes & Medicaid/Medicare HOME HEALTH CARE DEPT. Support Stockings Braces/Splints Lift Chairs Bath Benches Wheelchairs Walkers Crutches & Canes Commodes Hospital Beds
WHO NEEDS A DRIVE-THRU WHEN WE DELIVER! Delivery Available 6 Days A Week Mon.-Sat.
O’Brien’s Pharmacy 216 S. State St., Belvidere • 815-544-3433 Pharmacy Hours: Monday-Friday 9 am - 7 pm; Saturday 9 am - 4 pm; Sunday 9 am - 1 pm
Nutrition Facts Servings Per Recipe: Per 1/8 Recipe Amount Per Serving: Calories 280 Total Fat 9 g Sodium 190 mg Carbohydrates 35 g Dietary Fiber 3 g Protein 16 g
1. Cook lasagna noodles according to pkg. instructions, drain & set aside. Tip: Add a small amount of vegetable oil to cooking water to avoid noodles sticking together. 2. Mix ricotta or cottage cheese, parmesan, oregano, basil & garlic in small bowl. Add about 1/4 jar spaghetti sauce to large skillet. Place 3 cooked lasagna noodles in skillet to make a layer of noodles. 3. Spread 1/2 cheese mixture on top of noodles. Cover with 1/4 jar of sauce, 1/3 pkg. of broccoli & 3 noodles. 4. Spread remaining cheese mixture on top of noodles. Cover with 1/4 jar of sauce, 1/3 pkg. of broccoli, & 4 noodles to make final layer. 5. Top with remaining sauce, broccoli & mozzarella cheese. Turn heat to low on stovetop. Cover & cook until hot throughout & cheese is melted, about 30 to 40 minutes.
How To Practice Food Safety At Home In a typical day, few people may pay much mind to food borne illnesses. But once a person gets sick from food poisoning, the experience is something they don’t soon forget. Food safety can prevent many instances of food poisoning, which is one reason why restaurants must adhere to strict protocols. Routine inspections by government officials ensure those guidelines are followed, but what about cooking at home? When cooking at home, the family chef can follow these steps to reduce the risk of food borne illnesses. • Clean your hands & the surfaces in your kitchen. Germs can not only survive in many places around the kitchen, but also spread throughout the kitchen. Prior to preparing a meal, clean all countertops where you will be dicing, slicing, etc. In addition, before touching any food, wash your hands with soap & water for 20 seconds, & be sure to do so each time you finish working with one food & before working with another. • Rinse fruits & vegetables. They may contain harmful germs that can increase your risk of food borne illnesses. Salmonella, E. coli & listeria have each been found on fruits & vegetables. • Separate foods. Keep raw meat, poultry, seafood, & eggs away from other foods. Keep foods separate in shopping carts, grocery bags & then in the refrigerator upon arriving home. When preparing dishes that include meat & fresh fruits & vegetables, use separate cutting boards for each raw food. • Cook foods to the correct temperature. Foods are only safe to eat when they reach certain internal temperatures. A list of foods & their corresponding temperatures can be found at www.foodsafety.gov. • Cool foods at the right temperature, too. The CDC advises keeping refrigerators at 40 F or below. When thawing foods, do so in the refrigerator in cold water or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Foods should never be thawed on the counter, as bacteria can multiply quickly.
• All-On-4 Implants • Dental Implants • Implant Support Dentures • Bone Grafting • Cosmetic Dentistry • General Dentistry • Sleep Dentistry
PLEASE STAY SAFE & HEALTHY. WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU SOON!
2nd Opinions & Complimentary Consultations 140 N. State St., Belvidere, IL 61008
815-544-5144 CHAPKOANDSHAH.COM
Page 9
December 10, 2020
BOONE COUNTY
SENIOR LIVING A MONTHLY FOUR PAGE SECTION FOR SENIORS
Please Consider Donating To The Keen Age Center Affordable Assisted Living Community For Seniors 65 & Older Of All Incomes. Call For A Tour Today!
Letter From: Kelly Hillan, Executive Director of The Keen Age Center Greetings!
From all of us at Boone County Council on Aging, we wish you a very happy holiday season! We sincerely care about you, and we stand by our promise to be here for you & your loved ones.
ONSITE: • Beauty Parlor • Country Store • Physician Visits • Mail Service • Nursing Staff • Private Senior Apartments • Restaurant Style Dining • Housekeeping & Laundry • 24 Hr. Personal Care Assist. • In-House Emergency Response System • Medication Reminders & Assistance • Daily Activities & Transportation
This year has challenged us like never before. Throughout the pandemic we continue working to keep providing the essential services our community needs. Due to the current mitigation efforts, we have closed the Keen Age Center. We continue to provide Public Transportation, Information & Assistance, Community Care Program, & Lending Closet. We also introduced new virtual activities, reassurance calls, & pen pals to help fend off the isolation that has been so difficult on us all.
While government funding currently remains, we are cautiously awaiting news of looming budget cuts & we are losing out on roughly $40,000 from special events that normally sustain us. We hope you can help us bridge that gap. Please mail your donation to us at 2141 Henry Luckow Lane, visit our website at www.keenage.org or call us at (815) 544-9893.
We are so grateful for every donation that supports YOUR Boone County Council on Aging & Keen Age Center.
4730 Squaw Prairie Rd. Belvidere
815-544-9495 www.hw-belvidere-slf.com Managed by Gardant Management Solutions
Complete Service Of Cars & Light Trucks
We Carry
See Our “Pros” For
• Brakes & Suspension • Wheel Alignment • Shocks & Struts • Air Conditioning
• New Tires • Roadside Tire Service • Small Engine Sales & Service
R. J. Daniels Fuel & Tire Fairgrounds Rd., Belvidere, IL 815-544-2118 8094Open Daily 7-5; Sat. 7-Noon
Thank you!
Kelly Hillan Kelly Hillan - Executive Director
Modifications Can Make Driving Safer For Seniors Driving provides an almost unrivaled level of independence. The ability to travel beyond a neighborhood or even one’s hometown without a chaperone is probably what excites new drivers so much & makes them eager to get their licenses and cars. Senior drivers also may define their independence by their ability to drive. Few things diminish senior dignity & independence faster than losing the ability to drive. Despite popular misconceptions, seniors are some of the safest drivers around. The experts at Hartford Auto Insurance indicate that the number of accidents involving older drivers actually decreases as age increases. It’s the risk factors like medical conditions, medication usage & reduced physical function that increase the risk for accidents & injuries involving older drivers. Thanks to technology & some other well-designed devices, seniors may be able to continue driving longer than the aging drivers of years past. • Cushions & seat pads: Cushions do more than just alleviate hip & back pain while sitting. Cushions & pads can raise drivers up & improve their line of sight. Swivel pads can make it easier to enter & exit the car as well. • Adaptive cruise control: This can adjust speed automatically to maintain consistent space between vehicles. • Adaptive headlights: These headlights, also known as steerable headlights, can improve visibility by changing the direction of the light beam with the movement of the steering wheel. • Pedal extenders: Extenders help short drivers reach the pedals while maintaining a safe distance from the steering wheel & potential airbag deployment. • Hand controls: Whether one has sensory changes in the feet from surgery or a medical condition, adaptive hand controls can move the “pedals” up to the steering column. • Blind spot warning & other sensors: Today’s cars can be equipped with sensors that can detect oncoming traffic, cars to the left or right, items or cars behind the vehicle when reversing, & even if the vehicle has drifted out of the lane. These are all great safety features for any driver, but may be especially helpful to seniors. • Parking assist: Parking assist technology can steer the vehicle into a space with little input from the driver. • Voice control: Avoiding distractions & keeping hands on the wheel is enhanced by voice controls, which can be set up to do things like turn on the radio or adjust climate control. • Convex mirrors: Special mirrors increase the field of vision. Seniors have many tools available to make driving safer & more comfortable, which can prolong their years behind the wheel.
Our Family Is Here For Yours.
Our mission is to celebrate one’s life and help families navigate the journey of loss with a sense of hope. One of the most painful events we experience in life is the loss of a loved one. We believe that finding an appropriate and meaningful way to celebrate your loved one’s life while giving thanks to God for their life is the necessary foundation to healing. - Stephen Anderson
218 W. Hurlbut Ave. Belvidere 815-544-2616 www.AndersonFCS.com
Whether you call it a funeral service, memorial service, or commemoration service. Whether you choose burial or cremation, whether your budget is large or small. Whether you invite friends and community, or journey simply with your closest family members. We will help you design a unique and special ceremony.
Page 10
December 10, 2020
A simple phone call could make someone’s day.
SENIOR LIVING
Reduce the burden of loneliness Connect with an older adult from the comfort of your home.
A MONTHLY FOUR PAGE SECTION FOR SENIORS
CONNECT
BE THE ONE
MAKE THE CALL
We seek to alleviate chronic loneliness through fun, social phone calls.
We need you. Regular interactions are proven to foster a sense of well-being & improve physical health. You have the power to help.
A friendly phone call can make all the difference in someone’s day or even week. We will teach you how to share your stories & experiences with participants & how to listen to someone tell you about theirs.
Boone County Council On Aging 2141 Henry Luckow Ln., Belvidere • keenage.org SIMPLE ACTIONS CAN MAKE A HUGE DIFFERENCE. Volunteer today or refer someone who may be in need. Call 815-544-9893.
AS IF HIS LIFE DEPENDS ON IT ...because it did.
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT
BOONE COUNTY
815-965-8751 rrvbc.org
BELVIDERE CEMETERY ASSOCIATION “Established 1847”
• Pre-Burial Arrangements • Cremation Burials • Columbarium Niches
• Memorial Markers • Affordable Prices • Park-like Setting
Frank Lloyd Wright Pettit Memorial Chapel On Cemetery Grounds 1121 N. Main, Belvidere • 815-547-7642 belviderecemetery@comcast.net
SHADLEY APARTMENTS 1151 NETTIE STREET, BELVIDERE • MANAGED BY LUDWIG AND COMPANY •
SECTION 8 AFFORDABLE HOUSING These conveniently located and newly rehabbed, one bedroom apartments in Belvidere are specially designed for seniors and people with disabilities. Shadley Apartments is customized to facilitate independent living in a fully equipped apartment among friends and neighbors who share similar interests. Please contact Kelly Sumwalt (815) 547-5255 Property Manager for private showing.
ksumwalt@ludwigco.com fax: (815) 544-9568
Staying Physically Active During COVID Article Submitted By: Jen Jacky, CEO Belvidere Family YMCA It is easy to use the pandemic as a reason not to work out. But, with the stress of the situation, staying active is more important than ever. According to Mayo Clinic, “Exercise in almost any form can act as a stress reliever. Being active can boost your feel-good endorphins and distract you from daily worries.” There are many ways to stay active based on your comfort level: Exercising at Home - Check out online videos or on demand to find at home workouts that meet your activity level. If that option doesn’t appeal to you, then do activities such as walking or jogging in place, jumping jacks, arm curls with hand weights or even cans of soup. Get creative & incorporate everyday items around your house into your fitness routine! Doing chores is even a workout. Turn your mundane tasks into a cardio routine & get your blood flowing. At the end of it, not only will you have a clean house but will also feel good from putting forth some physical activity. Walking - Walking is a great activity, whether it is walking up & down the stairs or around the block. Set a goal of either how many steps or an amount of time to walk; push yourself & increase it as your current goal seems more easily achievable as you build your stamina. Be careful in the winter to watch for slippery spots & black ice. Attending a Fitness Facility - If you are more motivated by getting out of the house to workout, consider joining a gym. Check out what the gym’s guidelines, safety & sanitation guidelines are during the pandemic. Under current mitigation, masks are required doing any activity except swimming. While working out masked may be a bit more difficult, you can always dial back your workout a bit in order to compensate for the mask. The important part is that you are still staying active! Information about the Y - The Belvidere Family YMCA is a full service wellness facility featuring cardio & strength equipment, an 84 degree pool for lap swimming & water walking. Fitness & aquatic classes will resume as soon as mitigation allows. The Y takes the safety of its members very seriously & follows stringent sanitation guidelines. Please review the safety playbook at www.belviderefamilyymca.org. The Y offers many types of memberships including open door scholarships, Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit and veteran discounts.
Shovel Snow Safely This Winter The beauty of freshly fallen snow is undeniable. If it was as convenient as it is beautiful, snow would likely be welcomed with open arms whenever the local weather person includes it in his or her forecast. But heavy snowfall can be inconvenient, making it difficult to travel & even creating more work for individuals responsible for shoveling their driveways & walkways. Shoveling snow can increase a person’s risk for injury, & some may be surprised to learn just how frequently such injuries happen. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission notes that, in 2018, more than 137,000 people needed medical assistance for injuries that happened while shoveling snow or using snowblowers. Sprains & strains in the back & shoulders are the most common injuries when shoveling snow. But people also can suffer lacerations & injuries related to below-freezing temperatures when shoveling snow. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends people keep these safety precautions in mind when shoveling. • Stretch before shoveling. Just like you would do before exercising in a gym, stretch prior to picking up your shovel. Warm up with some light exercise for 10 minutes to reduce your risk of sprains, strains & muscle tears. • Stay hydrated & take frequent breaks. The AAOS notes that shoveling & snow blowing are aerobic activities. Such activities require participants to be hydrated. In addition, taking frequent breaks can help prevent injuries. • Avoid shoveling snow if you’re at risk for heart attack. Some people should avoid shoveling snow entirely. Researchers found that there was a 34% increase in heart attack deaths the day after an 8” snowfall, & those rates increased when snowfall increased. Most deaths were men, but both men & women who are at risk of heart attack should avoid shoveling snow, particularly after heavy snowfall. Adults who are unsure of their heart health should consult with their physicians prior to shoveling snow. • Use the right equipment. Ergonomic snow shovels make shoveling less taxing, reducing your risk for sprains & strains. Spacing hands on the grip can increase leverage, making it easier & less likely to lead to injury. • Pushing snow instead of lifting it. The AAOS recommends pushing rather than lifting snow when possible. If snow must be lifted, squat with your legs, knees bent & back straight. When lifting, lift with your legs & do not bend at the waist. Scoop small amounts of snow at a time & walk to where you want to dump. Do not hold shovels full of snow with arms outstretched, as doing so puts too much weight on the spine. Snow should not be thrown over the shoulder, as such a technique requires a twisting motion that puts stress on the back. In addition, the AAOS notes that heavy wet snow should be removed in pieces & not all at once. Anyone can get injured while shoveling. Such injuries are preventable when certain safety measures are taken.
Specializing In Short & Long Term Care Quality Healthcare Provided By A Professional Staff In addition to the highest quality care, we also strive to maintain the highest quality of life.
MapleCrest
4452 Squaw Prairie Road, Belvidere, IL 61008 tel: 815.547.6377 • fax: 815.547.3857 symphonymc.com
For A Private Tour Call Our Admissions Department Today
Rehabilitation Services Our rehab services extend far beyond the physical - it is about serving every aspect of an individual with care, kindness & respect. Our goal is to provide the necessary approach to facilitate a complete return to health & successful return to home.
Serving Boone County Over 40 Years!
Nor thwoods
2250 Pearl Street, Belvidere, IL 61008 tel: 815.544.0358 • fax: 815.544.5006 symphonynorthwoods.com