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Printed on recycled paper Volume 30 | Issue 6
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June 2020
June 2020
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June 2020
Ask A Health Care Professional Wei-Ann Bay, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico
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s we age, our vision changes. The changes can affect our ability to do daily things like read the newspaper or, more significantly, drive safely. Eye diseases are common and can result in problems ranging from blurry vision to blindness. As our aging population increases, the number of people with vision loss will increase. In fact, vision loss is considered a public health problem. It is estimated that as many as 80 million Americans have potentially blinding eye diseases, and the cost of vision loss is estimated to be $35 billion or more. What are the common eye diseases? The common eye diseases are refractive errors, cataracts, macular degeneration, retinopathy and glaucoma. Refractive errors are the most common eye problems. This condition is usually corrected with a pair of glasses. Presbyopia, or trouble focusing up close, is
an example of a refractive error related to aging. Many of us started experiencing presbyopia in our 40s and 50s. Cataracts occur when the lens in your eye becomes cloudy. Things may look blurry, hazy or less colorful. This can be treated with surgery that removes the cloudy lens and replaces it with a clear, artificial lens. Which eye diseases can lead to blindness? Macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma are common eye diseases that can lead to blindness if not treated. Macular degeneration, also known as age-related macular degeneration, causes loss of central vision. The cause is still unclear, but the risk increases with age. Objects look blurry in the center of your vision and clearer off to the sides. There are two types of macular degeneration: wet and dry. This condition can be treated with a certain combination of vitamins and minerals, special medicines called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors that go
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directly into the eye, or other treatments. The most common form of retinopathy is diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of uncontrolled diabetes. High blood sugars can lead to damaged blood vessels in the eyes, causing decreased blood flow and abnormal growth of new blood vessels. This condition can be treated with laser surgery, VEGF inhibitors, and surgery if needed to remove blood from the vitreous humor. The vitreous humor is the clear, gel-like fluid behind the lens in the eyeball. Retinopathy can also be caused by uncontrolled high blood pressure. Glaucoma is a disease that affects the main nerve in the eye called the optic nerve. There are two types of glaucoma: open-angle (the more common one) and angle-closure. Open-angle usually does not cause symptoms. However, when vision
loss is noticed, it is described as having tunnel vision — vision is clear in the center but not off to the side (opposite of macular degeneration). Angle-closure glaucoma happens when the fluiddraining system in the eye gets blocked, which can cause the eye (continued on next page)
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June 2020
Ask A Health Care Professional (cont.)
Table of Contents FEATURES
(continued from previous page)
2 Ask A Health Care Professional 4 Can Covid-19 Cause Kidney Damage 5 The Public Health Threat No One Talks About 7 Summer Indulgence
COLUMNS
6 13 14 15
Eating a healthy diet with lots of fruits and leafy green vegetables can provide the important vitamins and minerals your eyes need. Always wear sunglasses with UV protection to cut down on the harmful radiation from the sun. Be sure to know your family’s eye health history and share that with your health care provider. Stop smoking — smoking has been related to an increased risk for eye diseases.
pressure to rise. Both types of glaucoma can lead to blindness if not treated. Treatment usually involves medicines, laser therapy, or surgery, depending on the type of glaucoma. What symptoms should I be looking for? Call or see your doctor as soon as possible if you have eye pain, a red eye, drainage from your eye, decreased vision in general, double vision, flashes of lights, floaters (tiny specks that float before your eyes), or circles arounds lights (halos). But remember, some eye diseases have no symptoms, and the only way to find out is by getting an eye exam.
Shannon Wagers Bugman Dr. Muraida Herb Doc
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If you have a health question that you would like to be considered in Ask a Health Care Professional, please email AskHealthcareProfessional@ bcsbsnm.com. BCBSNM will select questions that may appear. Questions will not be personally answered. The opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and not necessarily those of BCBSNM. This column is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care.
What is my action plan? Just like taking care of your heart or your lungs, taking care of your eyesight is equally important. The only way to know if you have eye disease or have risk for vision loss is to get regular eye exams.
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June 2020
COVID-19 Can Cause Kidney Injury, Yet Most Americans Don’t Know It
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ccording to a recent Harris Poll, too many people don’t know all they should about the dangers of coronavirus— particularly how it can affect the kidneys.
COVID-19, it seems, attacks more than just the lungs. In the new National Kidney Foundation-Harris Poll Survey on COVID-19 and Kidney Health, the findings show low levels of awareness on both the risk of developing an acute kidney injury as a result of COVID-19 and of the long-term effects of kidney damage.
“A significant number of patients going into the hospital to be treated for COVID-19 are coming out as kidney patients,” said Kevin Longino, CEO, National Kidney Foundation and a kidney transplant patient himself. “We believe this may be a looming healthcare crisis that will put a greater strain on hospitals, dialysis clinics and patients, for whom chronic kidney disease will be a lasting remnant of the coronavirus crisis—even after a vaccine is, hopefully, found.” Acute kidney injury Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a sudden episode of kidney failure or kidney damage that happens within a few hours or a few days, and is happening in about 15 percent of all hospitalized coronavirus patients, many of whom now need dialysis. If a patient ends up in the intensive care
unit (ICU) their odds worsen; reports indicate that one in five intensive-care patients have lost kidney function. COVID-19 will likely result in a higher number of Americans with chronic kidney disease and/or kidney failure than before the pandemic. Once kidneys fail, dialysis or a transplant is needed to survive.
Hospital shortages Hospitals aren’t prepared for the expected increase of kidney patients. In hot spots of the outbreak there are shortages of dialysis equipment, supplies and nurses properly trained to administer dialysis in the ICU. Most Americans, according to the Harris Poll, are concerned and want the federal government to step in. Further, the Harris Poll found that the vast majority of Americans want the federal government to provide more resources toward diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of kidney disease, and significantly increased funding for kidney research because of kidney-related illness from COVID-19.
More poll results The poll also found: • Only 17 percent Americans are aware of acute kidney injury as a result of COVID-19; • Only 46 percent of Americans are aware that COVID-19 will likely increase the number of Americans with chronic kidney disease or kidney failure; • 58 percent of Americans are aware that COVID-19 can cause acute respiratory failure; • 54 percent know it can cause pneumonia; • 52 percent of those surveyed know COVID-19 can cause acute respiratory distress syndrome. Learn More Additional information about COVID-19 and how it affects kidneys can be found at www.kidney.org/coronavirus. — (NAPSI)
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The Public Health Threat No One Talks About: Loneliness
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here is a public health threat looming across the United States that’s not visible to most but affects nearly half of all Americans daily: loneliness. Social isolation is as bad for your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day and is twice as harmful as obesity. Worst of all, loneliness is a contributing factor in senior suicides, which are rising in the U.S. While it is not something people like to think about, now more than ever, Americans must remove the stigma around mental health and spread awareness to better combat loneliness. Many of the 12 million Americans over age 65 who live alone are entering the time of year where that lack of companionship and isolation is most palpable: winter. Whether physical or travel challenges keep seniors from attending family gatherings or the harsh weather deters them from venturing out for a social event, seniors can suffer from prolonged
loneliness that can quickly manifest into more serious issues. Loneliness does not have to be synonymous with getting older or with aging in place. Here are tips on how to help keep loneliness— and its negative health effects— at bay: • Intervene early: Spotting loneliness in yourself or someone you love can be difficult. The most common physical and behavioral signs of loneliness include persistent sadness, impaired cognitive performance, lower self-esteem, or lack of motivation and energy. Early intervention can positively affect one’s quality of life, so it’s important to address these symptoms as soon as possible before they become overwhelming. • Leverage technology: Technology can play a key role in reducing loneliness, ensuring seniors are always connected to loved ones and care teams who can
monitor and interact with them. For example, Philips Cares is a mobile application that helps connect seniors who are subscribers to Philips Lifeline service with their family and friends, helping to enable these caregivers to be there for their aging loved ones, easing and enriching their aging journey. • Make a connection: Connecting with people, purpose and passions will help eliminate feelings of isolation. Consider organizing a reoccurring social gathering, such as a book club or a group fitness class. Explore local activities organized by a senior community center or find a National Council of Aging program through www.ncoa.org/ncoa-map. Learn More For further facts about the latest technology to help seniors stay connected with their care circle, visit https://philips.to/2MGDqLm or call (855) 223-7395. — (NAPS)
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PRIME TIME
June 2020
The Texas-Santa Fe Expedition Of 1841 By Shannon Wagers
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f you were living in New Mexico back in the 1970s, you might remember seeing bumper stickers reading, “Texan Go Home,” or, in a lighter vein, “If God Had Meant Texans to Ski, He Would Have Given Them a Mountain.” I haven’t seen either one of those in many years, but resentment against our Tejano neighbors still simmers among us, and it isn’t just because they talk funny and have more oil than we do. It has deep historic roots.
In the 1830s, Texas, like New Mexico, was part of the Republic of Mexico. But some 30,000 Anglo-Americans—mostly southerners—had migrated to Texas, bringing with them their racial and religious prejudices. Many hoped to see Texas annexed by the U.S. as a slave state. In 1835, they revolted, and after a couple of years of hard fighting, defeated the Mexican army and raised the Lone Star flag over their new Republic. Unfortunately, the Treaty of Velasco, which ended the conflict, defined the
boundaries of the new nation somewhat ambiguously. Many Texans interpreted it to mean that their territory extended to the Río Grande, or possibly farther, encompassing more than half of present-day New Mexico. They advocated taking the land, by force if necessary.
Moreover, Texas wanted to cash in on the lucrative commerce moving over the Santa Fe Trail, which crossed the Kansas prairie to the north. Some envisioned opening a competing southern trade route that would link Santa Fe
with ports on the Gulf coast, and in 1841, Texas President Mirabeau Lamar authorized an expedition for the purpose of exploring the feasibility of such a route. Whether the objectives of the expedition were primarily military or commercial is a question still debated by historians. No doubt it was a little of both. The Texans made no secret of it. Reports of the preparations were even published in Austin newspapers, giving New Mexico ample time to prepare a defense.
Rumors that the Texans were organizing an invasion reached Governor Manuel Armijo in Santa Fe as early as the summer of 1840. He immediately notified his superiors in Mexico City and begged them to send reinforcements to defend the beleaguered frontier. But the central government was in disarray and nearly bankrupt, so no aid was forthcoming. New Mexico would have to defend herself as best she could.
Gov. Armijo is one of the more colorful and controversial figures of 19th century New Mexico. The famous quip, “Pity poor New Mexico: so far from heaven and so close to Texas,” has been attributed to him. He has been represented as corrupt, cowardly and corpulent. No doubt there’s some truth to that, but on this occasion at least, he appears to have acted decisively and taken immediate steps to organize a force to repel the invaders. It consisted of about 100 regular troops from the Presidio at Santa Fe, augmented by a citizen militia recruited from towns and pueblos across New Mexico. Few owned firearms. Most were armed only with lances, bows and arrows. Armijo took command personally, deployed his forces along the eastern frontier, and waited. The Texans were better equipped but badly organized. The expedition comprised a number of merchants and a train of wagons laden with trade goods, accompanied by 270 well-armed troops, including an artillery unit with a brass howitzer in tow. By the time the wagons began rolling westward it was already early summer. The prairie grass that had been lush in the spring was withering and water holes were
drying up, leaving sparse forage for their animals. Then they became lost and wandered for weeks on the vast expanse of the Llano Estacado, where they were harassed by bands of Comanches. Provisions grew short. Finally, the commander of the expedition, Col. Hugh McLeod, made the fatal decision to divide his forces. The New Mexico troops, guided by veteran comancheros who knew the plains well, intercepted the scattered groups of demoralized Texans, disarmed them, relieved them of their teams and wagons, and marched them off to Mexico City as prisoners of war. They were not well-treated, and their ordeal has even been compared to the infamous Bataan Death March of World War II. With their recent rebellion so fresh in memory, the Mexican authorities were not kindly disposed toward the Tejanos, and they narrowly escaped execution as spies. Many of the prisoners died before they were repatriated the following year. But that was not the last time invaders from Texas crossed our borders. Several attacks were made on outlying settlements in retaliation for the harsh treatment of the prisoners. Finally, in 1862, during the Civil War, a Confederate force composed mostly of Texans marched up from El Paso and managed to do what the 1841 expedition could not: capture Santa Fe. But they held the capital only briefly before once again being chased back to Texas by our loyal New Mexico volunteers (with a little help from federal troops at Fort Union and some Colorado volunteers.) Since then, the Tejanos have left us alone (except for skiers.)
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June 2020
A Menu Made For Summer Indulgence
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summer weekend isn’t complete until you fire up the grill, but flamekissed steaks are just the start to an unforgettable meal that celebrates all the best of the season. To create the perfect main dish, start with high-quality protein, like Omaha Steaks’ Private Reserve Boneless New York Strips. Thick, juicy and full of flavorful marbling, these premier steaks are meticulously aged for optimal taste and tenderness with robust, beefy flavor brought out when cooked properly on the grill. If you’re opting for burgers, elevate your menu with a flavorful accompaniment like crisp candied bacon for a menu you won’t soon forget. Find more ideas for upgrading the grilling experience in your own backyard at OmahaSteaks.com. Dry-Brined New York Strips with Grilled Brown Butter Balsamic Onions Prep time: 1-12 hours Cook time: 30-40 minutes Servings: 4
Candied Bacon
• 1 pound (1 package) Omaha Steaks Applewood Smoked Steak-Cut Bacon • 1 tablespoon fresh ground black pepper • 1 cup packed light brown sugar Heat oven to 375 F. Place wire rack on foil-lined baking sheet. Place strips of bacon on wire rack and sprinkle with black pepper. Lightly pat brown sugar on top of bacon in thin layer. Place baking sheet on center rack in oven and bake 25 minutes, or until brown sugar melts and bacon is crisp. Remove from oven and cool 10 minutes. Using tongs, transfer bacon to parchment-lined baking sheet and cool to room temperature. Store in airtight container up to 3 days at room temperature.
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Grilled Onions: • 2 large sweet onions • 4 wooden skewers, soaked • 1 tablespoon olive oil • salt, to taste • pepper, to taste
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S R U O E K I L YL I M AF R U O Y TA E R T E W
Butter and Balsamic: • 4 tablespoons salted butter • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme
steaks to desired temperature. When steaks are 5 F from desired temperature, remove from grill and let rest 5-10 minutes. Remove onions from grill. Carefully remove onions from skewers and place in serving dish. Top with remaining brown butter balsamic mixture and serve with steaks.
Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 25 minutes Servings: 8
Dry Brine: • 4 tablespoons Kosher salt • 1 tablespoon coarse ground pepper • 4 (11-ounce) Omaha Steaks Private Reserve Boneless New York Strips, thawed
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To make dry brine: Combine salt and pepper; season steaks generously on all sides. Place steaks on elevated rack on baking sheet and refrigerate at least 1 hour or overnight. To make butter and balsamic: Heat small skillet to medium high heat. Add butter and cook until butter begins to brown and smell nutty. Remove from heat and add balsamic vinegar and thyme. Set aside. To make grilled onions: Peel off outer layers of onions. Slice into 1/2-inch slices. Lay onions on flat surface. Push skewers through centers of onions; two onion slices per skewer. Brush onions with olive oil and season with salt and pepper, to taste. To cook steaks and onions: Make two-zone fire on charcoal grill with coals on one side and no coals on the other. Place onions on cool side of grill; flip and rotate every 10 minutes until golden brown, approximately 25-30 minutes. Total time will depend on how hot coals are and how close onions are to fire. When onions are golden and tender, brush with brown butter balsamic mixture. On hot side of grill, during last 15 minutes of cook time for onions, cook
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June 2020
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For A Healthy Life
Barry W. Ramo, MD, FACC • Director New Heart Fitness and Health • Cardiologist, New Mexico Heart Institute/Lovelace Medical Group
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enry is a 64-year-old salesman referred to New Heart Fitness and Health for cardiac rehabilitation one week after suffering a heart attack when a stent was placed in a coronary artery. Before I even started my consultation, Henry let me know how much he hated to exercise and was only here because his wife insisted. He explained he really didn’t have time to exercise. Our goal for him was to find a workout program that he would like and stay with. His other risk factors for a second heart attack included obesity (BMI a measure of height vs weight normal is 18-25). that we would address with nutation classes emphasizing
Can’t Stand To Exercise, Try This the Mediterranean diet. His cardiologist started medication for hypertension and a statin for his cholesterol.
I explained that he would ultimately like to achieve the goals advised by the American Heart Association: 150minutes of moderate aerobic exercise (75 minutes of high-level exercise) and strength training 40minutes a week. Sadly, studies have found that after 3 years fewer than 40% of patients like Henry were even exercising regularly and only 20% were following the guidelines. At least 80% of second heart attacks are due to lifestyle. Patients who complete the 36 one-hour session over 3 months program have fewer heart attacks and are more likely to be alive 10 years later than patients who come to one session and quit. Exercise is a key element in producing that benefit.
New Mexico’s Leading Medical Gym
Henry’s challenge was finding an exercise program that He might like and would continue long term. I told him that after 3 months, he would feel better than he had in years because I have seen what happens when people who are unfit become fit. He didn’t believe me.
At New Heart, which is a medical gym, we utilize a program called high intensity interval training (HIIT) because of its benefits over continuous aerobic exercise training (CAET) and because people like it better. Each session has two parts. High intensity alternating with low intensity. We recommend and teach it to patients who range from no heart disease yet to those with serious heart damage. It is safe and patients find it very satisfying. In addition to being satisfying, HIIT provides important benefits. First, it is great for a busy person. With HIIT, research has shown that one can achieve the same level of fitness achieved with continuous aerobic exercise (CAET) in a shorter period of time. HIIT has many forms and you can easily create your own program. Learn about them from many sites. A wonderful website established by entrepreneurs from Albuquerque. (grouphiit.com). A typical workout begins with a 3-5 minute warm up. That is followed up by sequences of high intensity (7 out 10 scale intensity) to a comfortable intensity of 4 or 5. We individualize the program for each patient.
Fitness for Hearts, Lung and Cancer Patients 601 Lomas NE 505 881 8195 Newheartnm.com
Henry found that mixing up the exercises was actually enjoyable (much to his surprise). Part of his exercise was on a treadmill and part on an exercise bike or an elliptical. HIIT can even incorporated into strength and balance training with squats or with weight machines. After completing, the 36-session program, he admitted he was looking forward to the 30-minute workout.
A bonus of HIIT is the effect on weight and body composition. Research has shown that HIIT is associated with greater weight loss for the same duration of exercise compared to CAET. This is attributed to an “afterburn” effect. Research has shown that HIIT causes calorie burning to remain high even after stopping exercising. A finding not seen with CAET. Studies have shown that total body fat and specifically abdominal fat distribution were reduced and lean body mass(muscle) increased. The loss of abdominal fat reduces insulin resistance so is important for people with prediabetes and diabetes. At the completion of the program. Henry was exercising for a full hour three times a week. He lost 3 inches in his waist size and 8 lbs. He finished our program 2 years ago and is still exercising. Henry’s findings are not unique. One study of walkers using HIIT found that after two years, nearly all were averaging 3 workouts a week. We don’t recommend more than 3 HIIT a week so that you have time to recover and avoid injury. The other exercise can be CAET. If you would like to learn more about New Heart New You go to NewHeartnm.com.
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Shoppers Save Big On Groceries With Healthy Savings® Powered By AARP Foundation
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ood nutrition is important at any age. But for older adults on a tight budget, regular access to nutritious foods can be limited—and expensive. A new program aims to change that by making it easier to get healthy foods at the local grocery store for an affordable price. With Healthy Savings® powered by AARP Foundation, shoppers pay a small fee of $4.99 per calendar year for a card that can save them up to $200 a month on groceries. The program is part of AARP Foundation’s work to help people over 50 with limited income eat more nutritious foods, ultimately improving their well-being. Research shows that more than 10 million older adults don’t get enough nutritious food on a daily basis, most often because they can’t afford it.
Eating healthy is about more than affordability, however. Not only does Healthy Savings reduce costs, it also identifies healthy options in the store. All products available through Healthy Savings are scored against the USDA’s Healthy Eating Index to make sure they qualify as nutritious. The index makes it convenient to choose the healthiest foods, which include lean meats, eggs, yogurt, whole grains, and a wide range of other options.
The typical over-50 diet scores low in key food groups like whole grains and dairy. By encouraging the purchase of more of these nutrients through coupon discounts, Healthy Savings can help older adults: • Lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. • Reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. • More easily manage a chronic
June 2020
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disease. • Increase or maintain energy levels.
Shoppers who sign up for Healthy Savings receive a card in the mail and can download a mobile app, both of which can be used at 22,000 grocery stores across the U.S. for instant savings at checkout. The savings come on top of any from store loyalty cards and manufacturers’ coupons (so long as coupons don’t add up to more than the price of the item). Each week, new coupons are automatically loaded onto the card and app—no coupon clipping
required. Over the course of a year, Healthy Savings can save shoppers as much as $2,400. More information, including recipes and tips for shopping smart, is at aarpfoundation.org/save. (NAPSI)
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10 June 2020
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This newly remodeled 2BR/2Bth home located on a corner lot in the Albuquerque Meadows age 55+ Mobile Home Community has a bright and open floor plan. Enjoy your morning coffee and the mountain views from your deck. Laminate wood flooring flows through the living room, dining room and kitchen. The large living room brags of big bay windows that let in lots of light Call Us for Cooler Start-Ups and and views of the mountains. Conversion to Refrigerated Air The kitchen is appointed with a new tile backsplash and granite countertops and all appliances except the washer Heating and Air Conditioning and dryer stay. The separate Plumbing den would make a great TV room and there is an addition Lic. #034393 off the den that could be an www.ANCAE.com office, library, or craft room. The guest bedroom is carpeted and HOMES FOR SALE has a walk-in closet and the guest bathroom has a walk-in shower. The master bedroom is carpeted and has a large closet. The master bathroom has two sinks, a higher toilet and a garden tub. There is a covered carport and a shed for your extras. Call Pat or Craig at (505) 821-1991.
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(stock photo) Relax on the front porch of this beautiful new Cavco home located in the Albuquerque Meadows age 55+ Mobile Home Community. Cathedral ceilings accentuate the bright and open floor plan that has a large living and dining room. The gourmet kitchen is any chef’s dream with plenty of cabinets and counter space and beautiful stainless steel appliances. This home has 2 bedrooms with an optional 3rd bedroom, den, or office. The nice-sized master bedroom has a walk-in closet and a ceiling fan and the master bathroom has double sinks, a walk-in shower and a large linen closet. The pretty guest bathroom has a tub/shower combination. This home comes with a manufacturer’s one-year warranty. Add tape and textured walls throughout, refrigerated air, a covered carport, and there’s no question that with one look you will want to call it home! Don’t miss this gorgeous home!! Call Pat or Craig at (505) 821-1991.
Located in the Albuquerque Meadows age 55+ Mobile Home Community, this home priced at $13,900, has a nice 2BR/2Bth floor plan, but just needs a little TLC. The floors have been updated with pretty laminate wood throughout. All appliances except the washer and dryer will stay. It has a split floor plan with the one bedroom located at each end of the home, making it nice when you have overnight guests. You can enjoy your days on the nice shaded deck. There is a fenced-in area for your dog, a covered carport and a shed for your extras. This home won’t last long. Call Pat or Craig at (505) 821-1991.
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The City of Albuquerque Department of Senior Affairs RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Program) is recruiting volunteers 55 years of age and older for the following opportunities. For more information call 767-5225. Senior Transportation Ride Coordinator Answer phones, confirm ride requests and match rider and driver. (Coordinate rides). Enter information into the data base, complete rider intakes over the phone and mail packets. Volunteer must have good phone etiquette, patient, and be familiar with data entry. You must take an Abuse Awareness training class. 2-3 volunteers are needed 2.5 hours per day, 5 days per week. For more information call 767-5225. CASA (City of Albuquerque Senior Affairs) Kitchen Looking for volunteers to support a state-of-the-art commercial kitchen that prepares food for seniors in the community. Hours are anytime between 4:00a.m. – 12p.m, Monday through Friday. Participate in preparation and distribution of food. Follow proper procedures in handling of food, portion control, sanitation, nutritional requirements and safety procedures. Some food handling experience is preferable; however volunteers will be trained for areas of help where are needed. Most volunteer activities will involve food prep (slicing, dicing, serving, and packaging) and kitchen
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June 2020
Classifieds sanitation (wiping, sweeping, mopping and dish washing). Call the RSVP office at 505-767-5225 for more information. The Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) Advisory Council Needs members to join its efforts in promoting awareness and educating the community about FGP and senior issues. Council members advocate on behalf of FGP volunteers, evaluate the Program’s effectiveness, and assist in the recognition of Foster Grandparents by raising funds and in-kind resources. The Council currently meets once a month at the Barelas Senior Center. For more information call 767-6412. Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) is looking for volunteers age 55 and older who are interested in making a difference in a child’s life. Foster Grandparent volunteers must be willing to serve an average of 20 hours per week and must be able to pass a background check, physical, and tuberculosis test. Foster Grandparent volunteers serve one-onone with children, working with them to build their social and emotional development as well as help improve their literacy skills. Volunteers receive mileage reimbursement, supplemental liability insurance, meals while on duty, pre-service and monthly trainings, and recognition throughout the year. Volunteers can also receive a small stipend if they meet the income
Crossword
ACROSS 1. Fisherman’s worms 5. Barriers 9. Feuds 14. Melville novel, for short 15. __ surgeon 16. Salk’s subject 17. Come into sight 18. One currency replaced by the euro 19. Flawless 20. Woes 23. Physical therapist’s recommendation 24. Gun rights org. 25. Fifth, for one: abbr. 28. Drove 32. Looked daggers at someone 34. Second-largest “Great” 35. Hot stuff 37. Floating lockup 38. Opposed to, hillbilly-style 39. Cut of beef 40. V e x 41. Curved molding 42. Dill herb 43. Colorado, for one 44. Eye parts 46. Translated 48. Summertime, in NJ 49. Sea feeder 51. Floor covering 52. Abuse 58. Capital city 61. Engrossed 62. Word with for or what 63. Like an acrobat 64. Response to “Get it?” 65. Forbidden action 66. __ off; lessen 67. Mimic 68. __ off; angry
Department of Senior Affairs Home Services is looking for volunteers to assist with yard work, minor home repairs, painting, building of wheel chair ramps and modified steps. Experience in minor home repairs and yard cleaning the use of yard tools, shovels, rakes and painting preferred but not required. Days/hours are open depending on volunteer. Time commitment: M-F 7:30-3:00. On the job training will be provided. Ombudsman Program Ombudsmen are advocates and problem solvers for residents in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Please apply if you are looking for a rewarding experience that makes a difference in the lives of the elderly. Time commitment: 3 hours per week, any day MondayFriday. For more information call 767-5225. Mileage reimbursement is available to RSVP volunteers. RSVP is part of Senior Corps and is administered by the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS). The purpose of RSVP is to recruit senior volunteers into public, government and non-profit organizations to meet community needs. For information on these and more volunteer opportunities call 767-5225.
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DOWN 1. Leave suddenly 2. Love deity 3. MI 4. Engraved markers 5. Buck 6. Musical number 7. Place to shop 8. Killed 9. __ column 10. Whale schools 11. Potable 12. Aunt Juanita 13. Sun, personified 21. Preposition 22. Liver or heart 25. Show up 26. Concealed 27. Lawn tool 28. Assaulted 29. Acquaint with a particular situation 30. Spirited enthusiasm 31. Showed boldness 33. Digest 34. Non-native, on Maui 36. Mark one’s choice 39. Garden herb 43. Overwhelming defeat 45. Part of a pencil 47. Bowl-shaped cavity 50. Central courts in old Roman houses 52. 1.6097 kilometers 53. Grate 54. Fencer’s prop 55. Bacchanals’ cry 56. Hawaii’s state bird 57. Trampled 58. Nixon or Buchanan 59. Muslim title 60. Seamy problem? 8
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How To Make The Most Of Your Telehealth Appointment
D
ear Savvy Senior, I manage a large doctor’s clinic that treats hundreds of seniors each month. We are moving to more telehealth visits to help keep our patients safe at home during the coronavirus pandemic, but this new way of seeing a doctor is befuddling to many of our elder patients. Can you write a column educating patients on how to prepare for a telehealth appointment? Regular Reader Dear Reader, I’d be happy to help! To help keep patients safe and at home during the coronavirus crisis more and more doctors and other health care providers are turning to telehealth (a.k.a. telemedicine) appointments, which are
remote e-visits using a digital communication device like a smartphone, tablet or computer. Although telehealth has been around for a few years now, recent updates to regulations and a surge in demand has made it the easiest way to get many different types of medical care. Most telehealth appointments today tend to be primary care or follow-up visits that can assess symptoms or check on people who have had a medical procedure. Telehealth also works well for some specialties like dermatology or mental health care (counseling/therapy) services. So, what can patients expect from a telehealth visit, and how should they prepare?
Robert Benjamin
~ New Mexico Landscape Series ~ Limited Edition Giclées by Robert Benjamin www.RobertBenjamin.com RobertBenjaminLandscapes@live.com
The first step is to call your doctor’s office to find out whether telemedicine visits are available and whether you will need to set up an account or install special software on your computer, phone or tablet. Until recently, doctors were required to conduct telehealth visits through platforms such as Doxy, Thera-Link or MyChart that were compliant with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, or HIPAA. But some of those requirements have been relaxed in the current crisis, so many providers are using popular apps such as FaceTime, Skype and Zoom to conduct visits. Once you know what technology you will be using, get familiar with it. You don’t want to spend the first 10 minutes of your visit trying to figure out how to unmute the audio.
The length of the appointment may depend on the problem. A routine visit could be very quick, while others, such as a physicaltherapy appointment, may last as long as a session at a clinic. Waiting rooms are sometimes replaced by virtual waiting rooms.
For older patients that aren’t familiar or comfortable with technology, ask a relative or friend with a smartphone, tablet or laptop to assist you.
Before the visit ends, make sure you know the follow-up plan. Do you need to schedule an in-office visit, fill a prescription or get a referral to a specialist?
Take the time to clarify the purpose of the televisit before it begins. Prioritize a written list of three or four issues you want to discuss with your doctor and make a list of the medicines you’re taking, along with the dosages.
Right now, Medicare and Medicaid are covering the cost of telehealth visits (see medicare. gov/coverage/telehealth for details), and most private insurers are following suit.
Also, have relevant medical devices or logs on hand, such as a penlight or smartphone flashlight for viewing a sore throat, a bloodpressure cuff and thermometer (or recent readings), blood-sugar logs if you’re diabetic or a food log if you have gastrointestinal problems.
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If you’ve received medical care at different places, such as an urgent care facility or another doctor’s office, have your latest medical records with you during the telemedicine visit. Wear loose clothing that will allow you to show your medical provider what is concerning you.
If, however, you don’t have a primary care physician or need urgent care, you can get help through virtual health care service like Doctor on Demand (doctorondemand. com) or TeleDoc (teladoc.com). These services currently do not accept original Medicare, but they may be covered by private insurers including some Medicare Advantage plans – be sure you check. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.
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Ask The Bugman Email questions to AskTheBugman.com or call (505)385-2820
M
oths are out in large numbers in many cities around New Mexico. This is largely due to lack of rain in the mountains and outlying desert regions. Many of the plants they live on are drying out, and they need moisture.
June 2020
mosquitoes. Mosquitoes, however, are a primary food source for bats. One bat can eat 1,000 mosquitoes in one night. Now, with the presence of moths, bats can feed on them instead. If we didn’t have the moth swarms, many bats would leave the area and would not be here when the rains come. Then, when the mosquitoes start breeding, we wouldn’t have the bats to help control them. Thanks to the moth populations, that’s not going to be a problem, as the bats will stick around. The bad news is that when the mosquitoes show up, pesticides are sprayed over large areas to kill a couple of mosquitoes. Many beneficial insects are killed, and many birds and in some cases, pets that may be outside can be
we made sure everyone knew what they could do to control mosquitoes in their own yard without using toxic pesticides. The system worked, and we had no issues with mosquito diseases. It is also vital that during this COVID-19 pandemic that you do not use any pesticides in your home or business or around their outsides. There is nothing essential about spraying pesticides along baseboards in a home or power spraying pesticides around the outside of a house. If you use an exterminator, I suggest that you insist they only use Environmental Protection Agency exempt pesticides. I know a lot of companies will say the pesticides they use are made from chrysanthemums and are safe. That is not true. There may be a fraction of chrysanthemums in the pesticides, but they are mostly made of inert
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ingredients, many of which can be toxic. Just tell your exterminator to only come out when you call them for an emergency pest issue, such as an infestation of yellowjackets or for termite control. There is no reason for regular treatments of pesticides. In most cases, you can control pests in your home yourself, without using any toxic pesticides. I will conduct free consultations with anyone who has a pest issue, and I have handbooks I can provide via email. If you have any pest questions, email me at askthebugman2013@ gmail.com or call me at 505-385-2820.
Difficulty hearing over the phone?
The moths are attracted to urban areas because of the humidity emitted from homes. They are also attracted to lights, so they may swarm homes with exterior lighting. They are not going to do any damage to your home. When we start getting some rain, they will spread out over a larger area and many will go back to the desert and mountains. This moth swarm is beneficial in an environmental way. Because of the lack of rain, we have few
harmed. Also, the pesticides that are used aren’t safe for people, and they can compromise your immune system and make you more susceptible to getting a virus, including COVID-19. Mosquito control should be about public education and not pesticide pollution, but that isn’t the case in many areas. When I was integrated pest management manager in Santa Fe, we never allowed mosquito spraying. We used larvicides where the mosquitoes would breed, and
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people around the world is now the handshake. Fast forward to early 2020, when the world-wide Coronavirus pandemic struck. No longer are we encouraged to greet each other physically, no handshakes, hugs or cheek kisses. So, what is the new norm? Many options have arisen in this time of special creativity. Adoption of more formal cultural greetings are returning such as bowing to each other, and performing Namaste. This is the act of putting one’s hands together near their chest, as if praying and greeting someone non-physically. Air kisses and waving are still considered safe. More modern modes of greeting may fall by the wayside such as the fist- bump, the elbow bump and certainly the “high five.” It is not clear if what is referred to as the Wuhan Shake, a foot tap, will catch on. Nevertheless, social distancing, frequent hand -washing, wearing a mask in public and now novel greetings are the new norm. Follow our local guidelines for protection. Be well, be kind, be patient and be safe. It’s a whole new world!
Volume 27 | Issue 5
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C
ovid -19 has changed our world, our lives and how we interact with each other! Who would have thought 5 months ago we would be wearing a mask to go to the grocery store? PPE (personal protective equipment), self-quarantine, and social distancing are words previously not
for Michelangelo’s The Creation of Adam in the Sistine chapel, where Adam’s hand is reaching towards God’s outstretched hand, as a sacred gesture.” In literature one can trace the handshake to 8 or 9 BC when the Iliad mentions two characters “shook hands and swore brothers”. More recently, shaking hands commemorated the establishment of treaties, surrenders, and even closure of business deals. Greeting each other, around the world has not been limited to handshakes. There’s an amazing diversity of greeting customs around the world. In Tibet sticking out your tongue can be a way of welcoming people. In New Zealand, Maori greet each other by touching noses. Ethiopian men touch shoulders, and in the Democratic Republic of Congo, male friends touch foreheads. In many Asian countries, people bow to each other when meeting. And in some European countries, as well as Arab countries, hugs or kisses on the cheek are more the norm. While this wasn’t always true, the most common physical way to greet
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Dr. Muraida is a Hospice and Palliative Care Specialist.
part of our common vocabulary. We greet each other from afar with a wave, a hello shout-out but no close contact, handshakes or hugs. While we contemplate the handshake becoming history, let’s examine the history of the handshake. Although a misnomer to start with, the handshake was more of a forearm grab. The history of the handshake dates back to the 5th century B.C. in Greece. It was a symbol of peace, showing that neither person was carrying a weapon up their sleeve. Romans, likewise, had a similar custom of greeting each other. This is especially true after Julius Caesar’s demise in the Ides of March. While the “arm grab” examined the cloaked arm for weapons, the shake it is theorized, was a maneuver to shake loose and reveal concealed arms from the upper arm. Some sources believe the act of shaking hands stems from a Egyptian leader who grasped the hand of a statue for strength before a battle. After a successful campaign the practice of touching hands was established. This Egyptian custom is believed to be the inspiration
Volume 27 | Issue 9
The Doc Is In
A Whole New World
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Dr. Gerard Muraida
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pg 12
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PRIME TIME
Shellie Rosen, DOM
Herb Doc
Shellie Rosen is a Doctor of Oriental Medicine. She can be reached via her website at Bodyvolve.com
I
s yogurt a healthy, low-fat, highprotein probiotic food? What about the adverse side effects of other potential ingredients that may result in more harm than good? The good news for yogurt lovers is that yogurt brands have expanded to cater to health-minded yogurt lovers. Read on to learn about what you might be looking for in your next yogurt concoction. The Process Yogurt is heated (fermented) milk with bacteria (usually Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Streptococcus thermophilus). These bacteria turn milk sugars called “lactose” into lactic acid, producing the signature sour taste of yogurt. Greek yogurt has increased firmness from straining a portion
Yogurt: Naughty Dessert Or Healthy Snack? of the whey liquids from the initial fermentation. Icelandic yogurt strains all whey, leaving none behind, resulting in the most protein and firmness. Australian is similar to traditional yogurt, the least firm, since it retains the whey liquid. These variations may affect the grams of protein per serving. For those on high-fat and high-protein diets, the thicker varieties may be the best fit. Dairy or Non-Dairy Dairy yogurt uses cow or goat milk. The best cow milk yogurt begins with grass-fed cows not treated with growth hormones like rBST. Lactose is an ingredient in dairy-based yogurt that can cause uncomfortable side effects. Some individuals cannot digest lactose, and others are simply lactose sensitive. The side effects may range from bloating and gas to inflammation and abdominal pain. Non-dairy yogurts are made from soy, cashew, hemp, oat, almond,
coconut, or plant combinations of nuts, cassava root, and plantains. Most soy is processed and genetically modified in such a way that it can make it difficult to digest for some. Frequent consumption of soy is a controversial debate since it is an estrogenic food that may cause harm to those with certain cancers. The debate is ongoing about soy, so consider the many other dairyfree options if you have a concern. If new to dairy-free yogurt, the consistency of coconut or almondbased brands might be the best place to start; some are closer to ‘Greek-style’ yogurt than others. Dessert or Healthy Snack The biggest health concern with most commercially produced yogurt is the amount of sugar by volume it contains. If you aren’t eating yogurt as a sweet dessert, it’s imperative to keep an eye on the amount of sugar per gram in each serving. High sugar yogurt without fiber to slow the release into the bloodstream can cause unhealthy
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and uncomfortable side effects. Sugary foods disrupt healthy intestinal microbiome (microbacteria) by promoting harmful bacteria to populate in the gut. As gut health declines, intestinal integrity weakens and increases the chances of harmful bacteria passing through the intestinal wall into the bloodstream. For those with pre-existing gastrointestinal illnesses, consuming sugary yogurt may worsen their digestive conditions. To slow the digestion of sugars, add organic granola or grain-free granola (nuts) to yogurt to create a well-rounded snack or meal. When adding yogurt to a smoothie or any other recipe, consider a low- to no-sugar option. Yogurt is a great replacement for ice cream and latenight snacks. Abundant blessings finding the best yogurt for all your healthy summer snacks. Dr. Shellie L. Rosen, L.Ac. DOM.
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