It’s that time again
(October 2023) By Ashley Wicker
There’s a lot of publicity this time of year to remind folks to check their smoke detector batteries when Daylight Savings Time is over. It makes sense to tie that chore to something that occurs on a regular basis (why not Valentine’s Day?), but I almost always forget to do it. It seems there are always other more pressing duties on the “to do” list, like finishing up in the yard, switching out those summer clothes or cleaning the gutters.
Another reminder that comes this time of year is mail regarding the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) that’s bombarding the mailboxes of Medicare-eligible individuals. While annoying and overwhelming, it’s incredibly important for recipients to review their health care coverage every year to see if their current plan still meets their needs. The days of one size fits all are over.
If you are a caregiver, a change in your loved one’s situation may indicate the need for different coverage. Have they started traveling more? Less? Did their medication needs change, including new prescriptions or treatments for a chronic illness? Did their primary care physician retire or relocate? Did their current plan change, and does it still suit their needs? It’s time to explore your options.
We know you’re busy, so let’s look at a few resources:
A great one is Medicare online (www.medicare.gov). This site is relatively easy to navigate and packed with information. You can check your plan’s star rating while you’re at it.
Another great resource is your state’s Department on Aging. They offer impartial counseling services for people who are Medicare-eligible.
Your local Area Agency on Aging is a gold mine. Find one near you at http://www.n4a.org/.
Our Health Alliance website https://healthalliance.org/medicare/ is easy to navigate and gives a nice overview of the options we offer in your county.
Once again, the AEP for Medicare is October 15 until December 7 for a January 1, 2024, effective date. The sooner you review your needs and gather information, the better equipped you will be to make an informed choice. When you are done, you can move onto something really important – like cleaning out the junk drawer in the kitchen. I know, I know; that’s not going to happen! LOL.
Ashley Wicker is a community and broker liaison at Reid Health Alliance. Born and raised in Fayette County, she is a devoted mother who enjoys the outdoors, cooking, and the arts.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
No More Eeny Meeny Miny Moe
(September 2023) By Sherry Gordon-Harris
It’s a children's counting nursery rhyme, used to select a person in games such as tag. You can replace “catch a tiger” with any word (catch a boy, catch a girl, etc.) or any animal. While this method was a fun one to use for selecting a member for a tag team, it might not be wise to use it in selecting a Medicare Advantage plan.
This is September. It’s time for Medicare! “I thought October 15 through December 7 was the time for Medicare?”, you ask. Yes, but September is preparation time, as I call it.
September is the month when Medicare plans normally send out what’s called an Annual Notice of Change (ANOC). If you’re in a Medicare Advantage (Part C) or a Stand-Alone Prescription Drug plan (Part D) you should receive this from your plan in late September. The ANOC includes any changes to your current plan in coverage, costs and more that will be effective the following January.
If your ANOC has changes you don’t like, or if your needs have changed or you feel like it’s time to look for something else, you can consider switching to a new plan. So be sure to open any letters you get in the mail from your plan, especially in September. Review and determine if you may need to make a change during the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), also known as the Annual Election Period, Oct. 15 through Dec. 7.
This ANOC information can help you make informed decisions on things such as premium, physicians and prescriptions. So, no need to use the “Eeny Meeny Miny Moe” method to select a Medicare plan.
Want to learn more about Medicare in general and how all of its “parts” work? Or are you about to turn age 65, the common age of eligibility for Medicare, and would like help sorting out all the potentially overwhelming information?
Health Alliance is happy to help. You may attend one of multiple presentations happening in your local area, both virtually and in-person.
1) Online Prepare for Medicare: Wednesday, Sept. 20, 2 p.m. CST.
This presentation webinar offers an overview of Medicare coverage options as you turn 65 and become eligible for Medicare. We'll help you sort through your Medicare research and answer any questions. Join us!
2) What’s Brewing With Medicare? Come Sip and “C”: Wednesday, Sept. 27, 6 p.m. CST.
Industry Brewery Co., 8012 N. Hale Ave., Peoria Heights, IL
It's already a great hangout. Why not stop in for a drink and appetizer while you learn about Medicare? This presentation offers an overview of Medicare coverage options as you turn 65 and become eligible for Medicare. We'll help you sort through your Medicare research and answer any questions. Join us! RSVP is highly recommended as space may be limited.
For questions about the online or the in-person event or your registration, please contact us at Outreach@HealthAlliance.org or self-register at HealthAlliance.org/events.
Sherry Gordon-Harris is a community liaison at Health Alliance. She’s a wife and mother of two boys. She enjoys traveling, collecting dolls, and hosting princess parties and pageants.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
Check It Off Your Fall List.
(August 2023) By: Carol Timms
As the seasons change and August rolls around, parents everywhere find themselves immersed in the annual back-to-school frenzy. Pencils, crayons, tissues, notebooks and backpacks become the focus, but have you ever stopped to consider what you can do for yourself?
Once the school year begins, your beloved children will come home with all sorts of germs they've picked up from their peers. While they may only experience a case of the sniffles, you might find yourself knocked down for the count. Protecting yourself from these invaders is crucial, and one of the best ways to do so is by getting the flu shot. It's a simple, safe measure that is likely covered by your insurance.
September through October is the optimal time to get your flu shot. Keep an eye out for vaccination events at churches and local gatherings, making it even more convenient for you to receive it. Your local pharmacy is also a reliable option.
Parents and grandparents play an essential role as role models for their children. Take your children with you when you go for your flu shot. When the pharmacist asks if you want the flu shot, confidently reply with a "Yes, thank you," and roll up your sleeve. By doing so, you're not only taking care of your own health but also showing your children the importance of maintaining healthy habits.
As you take your children for their school vaccines, they might notice your enthusiasm. Reinforce this by expressing your joy in being able to protect them from illnesses. Remind them of past challenges, such as the fight against polio or the concerns surrounding COVID. Letting them know that scientists are always working to keep us safe can alleviate their fears, allowing them to focus on what matters most – education and socialization. Who knows, they might even be inspired to pursue a career in science!
If you're seeking ways to reduce the stress of busy fall schedules, consider dusting off your trusty crockpot. This friendly appliance can prepare breakfast, lunch and dinner with ease. A quick online search will unveil a wide range of healthy and delicious recipes at your fingertips. And as an added bonus, you'll even reduce your energy consumption!
So, as you check off your back-to-school list, don't forget to take care of yourself. Get your flu shot, be a role model for your children and simplify mealtime with the help of your crockpot. Embrace the autumn season with a focus on health and ease, ensuring a smooth transition for the whole family.
Carol Timms is a community liaison at Health Alliance. In addition to her commitment to volunteering, she enjoys cooking, driving in parades and hanging out with her two CavaPoos. Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
Sources: Retirement | USAGov
Did I save enough money for retirement?
(July 2023) By: Derek Brawner
Benjamin Franklin’s saying, “A penny saved is a penny earned,” is still true today, especially when thinking about retirement. I think about the possibilities occasionally, but it seems, too, that I might not have thought about it enough when I was younger and am now playing catch-up.
I know that in my grandparents’ day, retirement didn’t require much planning. Most folks didn’t live long enough for it to be a problem. These days with modern medicine, longevity is a much more attainable goal. It’s the actions we take to prepare for it that have the most impact on our quality of life.
I also look at my parents, who are currently retired, and think back that maybe they were onto something about saving money for the future. While I was growing up, my father lived a very frugal life and tried to save every extra dime he had into his retirement fund. He was a schoolteacher and had a pension fund set up by the state he taught and lived in. He always put in the maximum amount he could each year to capitalize on his pension fund. He would tell me every time that he received a pay increase at work, he put that into his retirement fund. Do you think I did the same? Of course not.
When I was thinking about this article and doing internet research for it, I came across the website Retirement | USAGov. So I clicked on the link to check out the information. Boy, was I amazed at the plethora of information this website has for planning for retirement.
Retirement requires a lot of planning and consideration. In addition to finances, you need to think about when and where you’ll retire. Experts advise that you may need as much as 80 percent of your pre-retirement income to continue your current standard of living. The exact amount will depend on your individual needs.
As you plan, consider these important questions:
● At what age do you plan to retire?
● Can you participate in an employer's retirement savings plan? This includes 401(k) plans and traditional pension plans.
● If you have a spouse or partner, will they retire when you do?
● Where do you plan to live when you retire? Will you downsize, rent or own your home?
● Do you expect to work part-time?
● Will you have the same medical insurance you had while working? Will your insurance coverage change?
● Do you want to travel or pursue a costly, new hobby?
Plan Ahead with Health Insurance
While planning for your retirement, you also must make sure you can cover medical and hospital costs when you need to. To learn more about Medicare, wellness and general health insurance, visit HealthAlliance.org.
Derek Brawner is a community and broker liaison at Health AllianceTM. He’s a small-town guy living in the big city of Springfield, Ill., married with two kids, a huge “Star Wars” fan and a griller extraordinaire.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
Sources: Retirement | USAGov
Staying cool in a hot world
(June 2023) By Sherry Gordon-Harris
I’ve always been a fan of Motown, or the Motown sound, a style of rhythm and blues music named after the famous record company originated in Detroit. One of my favorite Motown singers is Diana Ross. Some say I kind of look like her because of my big eyes. I even sang one of her songs, “I Will Survive,” in a company karaoke team-building activity.
Another one of my favorite Motown sounds came from the group Martha and Vandellas. Their famous song “Heat Wave” was released in 1963. The lyrics of this song talked about a certain burning inside in the heart whenever nearby a certain gentleman. The burning was identified as a desire. But the questions were asked: “Could it be the devil in me? Or is this the way love’s supposed to be?”
The feeling was ultimately compared to a heat wave in the lyric “It’s like a heat wave burning in my heart.” This metaphor of a burning fire led to another question in the lyrics of this song: “Has high blood pressure got a hold on me?”
While this metaphor is talking about a crush or being in love, the physical effects of an actual heat wave can be dangerous. Everyone, especially older adults, children and pets should take precautions against excessive heat during extremely high temperatures. Heat-related injuries such as heat exhaustion, heatstroke and dehydration may develop with or without feelings of discomfort. So staying cool in the summer heat is a matter of paramount importance.
Here are a few tips to prevent heat-related injuries:
Try to stay cool, preferably in an air-conditioned area and wear light-colored, loose clothing.
Limit outdoor activities and avoid vigorous physical activities in hot, humid weather.
Take frequent breaks and drink plenty of water, regardless of your activity level. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink.
Avoid liquids that contain caffeine, alcohol or large amounts of sugar that cause loss of body fluids.
Check in with family, friends and neighbors who may be affected by extremely high heat.
Sometimes local senior centers or senior-focused organizations such a Senior Care Network conduct drives to distribute fans to senior citizens during the hottest summer months.
There could also be several cooling centers in your local area such as:
1. Department of Human Services
2. County health department
3. Bus transit stations
4. Police station
For more information on heat wave safety and cooling resources, call the Heart of Illinois United Way at (309) 999-4029 or visit https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/heat-wave-safety.html.
Sherry Gordon-Harris is a community liaison at Health Alliance. She’s a wife and mother of two boys. She enjoys traveling, collecting dolls and hosting princess parties and pageants.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
No One like a Mother
(May 2023) By Sherry Gordon-Harris
We all know one, you may even be one, or you were blessed to be raised by one. You know exactly what I am talking about. A mom – otherwise known as Mommy, Momma, Mother, Mama and a slew of other nicknames that come with her role.
Some of these moms are different, though. Not all may be flesh and blood. Some adopt, some took on roles to be a team mom and some may care for four-legged creatures. However they came to be mothers, they all deserve to be celebrated.
One of the neatest things to watch is someone become a new mom. The instant change of realizing how much love there is to give and how your heart hurts with happiness is indescribable.
May is the month we celebrate mothers, and no matter what kind of mom they are, one thing they all have in common is LOVE! We celebrate all moms for giving birth, feeding, clothing, playing, crying with and for you, and loving you through good times and tough times.
To those who have lost your mother, my heart hurts for you, and I send my deepest condolences. Please know there are resources out there for you, like https://www.ourhouse-grief.org/grief-pages/death-of-a-parent/adult-death-of-a-parent/.
I hope you are able to remember the special times and celebrate her. There is an unspeakable bond between a mother and child, and the idea of losing that is simply devastating.
Please remember this Mother’s Day to tell those moms you know just how special they are. Take a little extra time out of your busy schedule to plan ahead and treat them with the same love and care they’ve treated you with for all those years. There is really no one like a mother.
Happy Mother’s Day to all you moms out there!
Sherry Gordon-Harris is a community liaison at Health Alliance. She’s a wife and mother of two boys. She enjoys traveling, collecting dolls and hosting princess parties and pageants.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
Tax Time is Here Again
(April 2023) By: Derek Brawner
April 15, 2023, is fast approaching for all young, middle age and senior adults alike. Tax Day, as most adults call April 15, is the day of the year when taxes must be filed with state and federal departments of revenue and postmarked by midnight. This year, though, taxes will be due by April 18, due to April 15 falling on a Saturday and the following Monday being Emancipation Day.
This gives taxpayers a few more days to get their taxes done, but I suggest not waiting until the last minute like most. Now if you are like me, I bet you waited till the very last minute to file your taxes in 2022. This article is about how the senior/elderly population can go about getting help filing their taxes.
The IRS.gov website has a good amount of information available to help seniors at tax time. Senior taxpayers on a fixed income need to be able to save every penny they can when it comes to preparing, filing and paying their taxes. Available on IRS.gov, IRS Free File provides free online tax preparation for taxpayers with income less than $73,000 a year. Seniors and retirees can browse through 10 brand-name tax-software providers to find the right help. IRS Free File also offers electronic filing, and senior taxpayers can use smart phones or tablets to file their taxes for free by accessing IRS.gov/freefile on their device. Senior taxpayers might even be able to file their state taxes for free or for a small fee.
For elderly taxpayers who don’t feel comfortable or have electronic devices such as a smart phone, tablet or computer, there are also local programs seniors can go to for free help. VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) and TCE (Tax Counseling for the Elderly) are grant-based programs offered by the federal government on the local level to help seniors with their taxes. Seniors should also check with their local senior service agencies, libraries and churches for any tax preparation help they might offer for free or for a small fee.
With that much tax help available for seniors, there’s no need to be scared when it comes to filing taxes. There are some programs out there to help.
Derek Brawner is a community and broker liaison at Health AllianceTM. He’s a small-town guy living in the big city of Springfield, married with two kids, a huge Star Wars fan and a griller extraordinaire.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
You’re my angel.
(March 2023) By Sherry Gordon-Harris
As a little girl, I played with baby dolls. I combed their hair, changed their clothes and fed them. I even put Band-Aids on their imaginary “boo-boos” just like when I got a minor scrape or bruise. I took care of them as I experienced my parents take care of me.
But my patients were only baby dolls. Many U.S. Army soldiers injured in combat received much-needed nursing care from one of the most honored women in American history. Her name is Clarissa “Clara” Harlowe Barton. She was a hospital nurse during the American Civil War.
Nursing education was not very formalized back then, so Clara provided self-taught nursing care. Her first nursing experience began in her teen years when she helped care for her seriously ill brother.
Clara also helped distribute needed supplies to the severely wounded soldiers in the Army. Her intense devotion to helping others earned her the nickname “Angel of the Battlefield.” Her mantra was “You must never think of anything except the need and how to meet it.”
Clara went on to become the visionary leader and founder of the American Red Cross. Its mission is to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. The legacy of Clara Barton lives on through the many volunteers and employees of the American Red Cross bringing help and hope across the nation and around the world.
Clara was also recognized for doing humanitarian work and civil rights advocacy at a time before women had the right to vote. She was inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame in 1973. Clara is just one of the many women who are deserving of recognition during March, Women’s History Month.
You can count on Health Alliance for a coordination of trusted high-quality health care, coverage and support. Like Clara Barton, we also have a passion and dedication for helping for people. We’re dedicated to providing innovative health solutions to take care of our members and our community. For more information, you can visit HealthAlliance.org.
Sherry Gordon-Harris is Community Liaison/Medicare Advisor at Health Alliance. She’s a wife and mother of two boys. She enjoys traveling, collecting dolls and hosting princess parties and pageants.
Have a community outreach need or upcoming event we should be a part of? Or like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
It’s Mardi Gras Party Time!
(February 2023) By Derek Brawner
Mardi Gras refers to events of the Carnival celebration, beginning on or after the Christian feasts of the Epiphany (Three Kings Day) and culminating on the day before Ash Wednesday, which is known as Shrove Tuesday. Mardi Gras is French for "Fat Tuesday," reflecting the practice of it being the last night for eating rich, fatty foods before the ritual Lenten sacrifices and fasting of the Lenten season. In 2023, Mardi Gras will fall on February 21. In Springfield, IL, on Saturday, February 25, if you are looking to let loose and party, please join Health Alliance and AgeLinc (Area Agency on Aging for Lincolnland) for the second annual Mardi Gras Gala.
The Gala is a fundraising event to help support AgeLinc and the numerous programs they offer to seniors in a 12-county service area in central Illinois. AgeLinc funds transportation and nutrition programs, assists with applying for discount license plates and bus passes, helps with Medicare enrollment, provides educational opportunities as well as support to caregivers and older adults who identify as LGBT+. The goal of AgeLinc is to help older adults maintain dignity, health and independent living in the 12 counties they serve. Health Alliance is proud to once again be a sponsor for the 2023 Gala. Many local community businesses that support older adults also sponsor this event for AgeLinc.
This year’s Gala takes place from 6 – 10 p.m. Saturday, February 25 at the Crowne Plaza in Springfield. This masquerade, cocktail, black-tie-optional event will be a great time for all. AgeLinc will crown the best-dressed (in Mardi Gras attire) king and queen of the Gala. There will also be a silent auction, a Cajun dinner and live entertainment by local DJ Troy Armstrong.
I can tell you from last year’s event, it will be another rocking good time for all that attend. Please know that seating is limited, so if you would like tickets, please contact AgeLinc either by phone (217)787-9234 or on their website.
Health Alliance, AgeLinc and I hope to see you at this year’s event. AgeLinc cannot provide the great services to older adults without the support of the local community and area businesses.
Supporting local organizations that serve the community is important to us. This is one example of ways local organizations are working together to support the needs of the communities we serve. If you know of an upcoming event that you would like us to be a part of, please reach out to your local community liaison or feel free to reach out to our team email included below.
Derek Brawner is a community and broker liaison at Health Alliance. He is a small-town guy living in the big city of Springfield, married with 2 two kids, as well as a huge “Star Wars” fan and griller extraordinaire.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
Do you want to build a snowman?
(January 2023) By Sherry Gordon-Harris
Back in the day when I was a youngin, I’d usually still be on winter break from school during the first week of January. There would be lots of snow on the ground and plenty of time to pass until the next semester of school began. One day while suffering a bad case of cabin fever, I suggested to my two younger brothers, “Let’s go outside and build a snowman!”
We sang the theme song from the cartoon we watched every winter of a famous snowman named Frosty. Not only did we build a snowman, but we also built the wife and children of the snowman. We clothed them with garments, hats and scarves. Creating the snow family was a positive sibling-bonding and teamwork-building activity to do in our spare time.
What do you like to do in your spare time? There are many activities that can be done as recreation or to simply pass the time. January is National Hobby Month. This is a time where hobbies are celebrated. And new hobbies can be explored. Many hobbies of all kinds have been created by people over the eras. These have included knitting, stamp collecting, doll collecting, reading, writing, making jewelry, cooking and more.
If one of your hobbies is cooking, you may enjoy the live healthy cooking demos and articles with delish recipes provided by Health Alliance™ through its Hally® health program. Hobbies can be fun and healthy. When cooking, you can even get the whole family involved with kid-friendly recipes everyone can make together!
Hally health is all about helping you live your healthiest life while giving you plenty of ways to do so. Hally health, to put it simply, is an ally in all things health. It’s a full suite of tools, resources and more to help you live your healthiest life – and a valued benefit to Health Alliance members and plan participants. Check it out today!
And also be sure to check out Simply Well – our quarterly newsletter that contains wellness tips and encouragement from our Hally health team.
So, whether cooking is your current hobby or about to become one of your new favorites, you can whip up some delicious and healthy meals for breakfast, lunch, dinner or desserts with ideas from Hally health. Celebrate National Hobby Month this January – let’s cook something delish!
Health Alliance wishes you and yours a happy and healthy New Year!
Sherry Gordon-Harris is a community liaison at Health Alliance. She’s a wife and mother of two boys. She enjoys traveling, collecting dolls, and hosting princess parties and pageants.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
Tis the Season
(December 2022) By Sherry Gordon-Harris
December – it’s the last month of the year. A lot is going on this time of year. There’s the extra shopping, holiday parties and festivities, family gatherings, decorating, gift wrapping, and other end-of-the-year wrap-up (pun intended!) activities.
The thing I like the most about this time of year is giving gifts and charity. I usually give a donation to those ringing a bell outside store entrances or the mall, collecting for The Salvation Army. Of course, I give to my family, loved ones and those close to me. At least one organization or community group I’m connected to has an event where there’s a white elephant gift exchange. That’s always fun to select an item for that!
In addition to giving gifts and charity, I love gift wrapping. I’m the one who meticulously pre-measures the wrapping paper, folds and presses the edges, and places the tape in just the right place. Peoria Neighborhood House has a program called Santa for Seniors. It brings me joy to volunteer to help wrap gifts for these older adults in our community. Even though I may not know who the receiver of each gift is personally, I get greater joy knowing that each will go to someone who’ll truly appreciate the love.
This is also the time of year when Health AllianceTM experiences a huge upswing in call volume. In the Medicare world, the first week of December is the homestretch and close of the Annual Enrollment Period (October 15 until December 7) – when people covered by Medicare Advantage plans can make changes in their medical and pharmacy coverage. Although it’s recommended to shop and select a plan before the last minute, Health Alliance is committed to being available and helping up to the very end of the period.
Health Alliance takes pride in helping Medicare beneficiaries with Medicare Advantage health plans made with them in mind – plans for them, their unique lifestyle, their specific health needs, in their local community. It’s all about giving you access to the doctors you know and trust, high-quality pharmacy coverage, and extra programs and perks that you deserve.
Medicare Advantage (also called Part C) replaces Original Medicare and is sold and managed by private insurance companies. Like Original Medicare, all Medicare Advantage plans include Part A (hospital coverage) and Part B (medical coverage). But unlike Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans often include Part D (pharmacy/prescription drug coverage) and extra perks, like fitness benefits and wellness programs. I think of Medicare Advantage plans as an all-in-one, perfectly-wrapped gift. And the bow on top is the Health Alliance customer service representatives who are always ready to help.
With your Medicare Annual Enrollment Period shopping and selections all wrapped up, you can focus on all the other fun festivities that take place in December. This month is truly one of joy, cheer and togetherness. All of us at Health Alliance wish you and yours good health and wellness always!
Sherry Gordon-Harris is a community liaison at Health Alliance. She’s a wife and mother of two boys. She enjoys traveling, collecting dolls, and hosting princess parties and pageants.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
The Great Thanksgiving 2022 Dilemma: How to Cook the Turkey This Year
(November 2022) By Derek Brawner
It’s November – that means the Thanksgiving holiday will soon be upon us. This year, I’m faced with a true dilemma of how to cook the turkey. I have three possible options. For the past 13 years, I’ve taken it upon myself to cook the turkey for the entire family that gathers for Thanksgiving at my dad’s. One of the great things about working for Health AllianceTM is that we’re given either a turkey, ham or fruit basket for the holiday. So turkey in hand, I face the dilemma of three possible options for cooking this bird!
Option one: the traditional way of cooking a turkey – roasting it in the oven. This method is the most-used choice. Most of us remember growing up as children, the family all gathered together waiting for the turkey to be cooked…the house smelling fantastic as the turkey roasted in the oven (or roaster) for about four hours…family members opening the oven to baste the turkey and…finally…waiting for it to be carved and served. Delicious memories! This was the way I always remember the Thanksgiving holiday and still like it myself. But times have changed – and there are a couple other options available!
Option two: fry the turkey. Turkey frying became popular in the early 2000s. It’s a much faster way of cooking, and it usually takes about an hour-and-a-half to two hours depending on the turkey size. Now don’t get me wrong – frying a turkey can be a bit dangerous with some of the old turkey-friers out there – but technological advances have made it much safer these days. Also, if you’re trying to be health conscious, frying a turkey might not be a very healthy method. I personally love frying a turkey – I inject the bird with a Cajun butter you buy at the store and season the outside with Cajun seasoning. Mmm! My family loves it.
Finally, option three: smoke the turkey. My wonderful wife just bought me a smoker, since I love to cook outdoors and consider myself a griller extraordinaire. Smoking a turkey is quite an easy way to cook it too – you put it in the smoker and check on it every so often. You can also brine your turkey or inject it for the smoker. The only issue with smoking a turkey is the time, since it takes up to seven hours. But a smoked turkey is also a little bit healthier than the other two options – however, in my opinion, the time frame makes it a little harder to pull off for Thanksgiving.
As you can see, I face quite the dilemma in choosing between three quality options! The same can be said about healthcare coverage options for older adults. There are so many Medicare Advantage plans out there for those 65 and older. I implore anyone 65 or older to please check out all Medicare options that are available in your ZIP code. Evaluate each plan and find the best one that fits your needs for the upcoming year. Don’t be a turkey and get caught uninformed!
As for me and my Thanksgiving dilemma, I’ll probably choose option two, frying the turkey. At this time, it’s my best way of preparing the bird and the quickest – giving me more time to spend with my family. From all of us to you, have a wonderful Thanksgiving this year!
Derek Brawner is a community and broker liaison at Health Alliance. He’s a small-town guy living in the big city of Springfield, married with two kids, a huge Star Wars fan and a griller extraordinaire.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
AAEP – and Asking the Right Questions
(October 2022) By Denny Mekus
There’s something to be said about being the oldest sibling. The “oldest-sibling” stereotypes have actually been pretty accurate in my life: being bossy, taking on a lot of responsibility, being fiercely loyal and protective, and using (on repeat!) my favorite mantra…“You can’t treat my siblings like that, only I can treat my siblings like that!”
In short, being the oldest sibling means having the life of a trailblazer, and it’s important to ask for help, especially when we feel forced to make important decisions by ourselves. Such is the case when turning 65 and enrolling into Medicare. My family has shared their own stories of feeling overwhelmed and pressured when being inundated with mail advertisements and phone calls claiming the “only way” they could get enrolled was “by doing so that day, with that specific company.” At Health Alliance™, we want you to know that should never be the case.
Our communities are filled with helpful resources for those who are eligible for Medicare, and we encourage everyone to reach out to your local SHIP (Senior Health Insurance Program) offices, regional Agencies on Aging and local centers for older adults. They all work hard to identify any annual changes to Medicare, and they’re there to provide the best information possible. From October 15 to December 7 every year, those who are eligible for Medicare are able to pick the Medicare plan they’d like for the upcoming year. Medicare Advantage plans – a popular option – are offered by many insurance companies, including us at Health Alliance.
I am grateful to be part of an amazing team that fosters training and truly encourages our communities to be as informed as possible about their Medicare options by providing unmatched resources and direct communication. For everyone who’s eligible for Medicare – and especially all those oldest siblings like myself – know that there’s plenty of help out there and now’s the time to look for it. Please feel free to reach out anytime – it’s our job, and we’re always happy to help!
Denny Mekus is a community and broker liaison at Health Alliance. He’s a husband, a father of twins, an avid golfer and a performing musician who lives in the Quad Cities.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
Take action against Alzheimer’s.
(September 2022) By Sherry Gordon-Harris
As days go by, we never really notice change until we sit down to reminisce and look back at our past. Every couple of years, I look back at old family pictures and home videos – and realize how much has changed. This triggers memories and further discussion on that particular time in my life.
As we go through our lives, we meet so many people. It can be hard to remember all their names (well, at least for me!), but I always remember faces for some reason. I love to see people I remember, even if I don’t quite remember their names.
In this line of work, I get to see so many people with different backgrounds and (unfortunately) different illnesses. When I first encountered the illness of Alzheimer’s, I wasn’t sure how to approach it or even how to act. People I met with Alzheimer’s didn’t always show obvious signs of the disease. Instead, it was often very subtle. I really had to pay attention and see the ways the illness was affecting those who had it.
After my first experiences getting to know people with Alzheimer’s, I started to do my research on what happens when a person gets diagnosed with the disease. I came across the Alzheimer’s Association®. I learned so much on its website, alz.org, and realized how Alzheimer’s is so common. Did you know that Alzheimer's is the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S.? The disease also accounts for 60% to 80% of all dementia cases.
This illness takes away so many of our loved ones, neighbors and friends. So what’s being done? How can we help stop this terrible illness from taking so many memories away? One thing to keep in mind if you or a loved one is going through this – you’re not alone. In fact, the Alzheimer’s Association has walks all over the country each year to raise awareness and funds for research for a cure for Alzheimer’s. The walks bring people together to build up Alzheimer’s care, support, research and more.
Health AllianceTM sponsors several Walks to End Alzheimer’s. Here in the Midwest, the details for this year’s walks are:
Champaign-Urbana Area (Illinois): September 17 at Meadowbrook Park in Urbana. The opening ceremony starts at 9:30 a.m.
Kankakee and Iroquois County Area (Illinois): September 17 at Kankakee Community College. The opening ceremony starts at 9:30 a.m.
Mattoon and Charleston Area (Illinois): September 17 at Peterson Park in Mattoon. The opening ceremony starts at 9:30 a.m.
Knox and Warren County Area (Illinois): September 24 at the picnic area at Lake Storey Park in Galesburg. The opening ceremony starts at 9 a.m.
Take action – and show your support for this important cause. Join the Alzheimer’s Association at one of these walks. It’s an opportunity to be a part of the change for the many living with Alzheimer’s, all of whom need our awareness, our care and our constant support.
Sherry Gordon-Harris is a community liaison at Health Alliance. She’s a wife and mother of two boys. She enjoys traveling, collecting dolls, and hosting princess parties and pageants.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
OMG, AEP is coming! Just two months until October.
(August 2022) By Derek Brawner
The next time you’re at a party or family gathering and the conversation starts to lag, I have three words that will fire things up with your Medicare-aged family members: AEP is coming (any “Game of Thrones” fans out there?). Yes, I know this is a volatile subject, but it’s something we caregivers and advisers need to keep an eye on. Everyone seems to have a viewpoint, young and old. As someone who’s been in healthcare for a few years, I have a few opinions, too.
First things first – the basics of AEP. It might only be August, but October is right around the corner. This means AEP (Annual Enrollment Period) for your 2023 Medicare plans. From October 15 to December 7 every year, those who are eligible for Medicare are able to pick the Medicare plan they’d like for the upcoming year. Medicare Advantage plans – a popular option – are offered by many insurance companies, including us at Health AllianceTM.
At Health Alliance, we submit plans to the federal government to approve. Every year, they approve the new Medicare plans we offer, making sure we’re giving our members everything we’re supposed to (in fact, we pride ourselves on giving our members even more!) and that we’re following all the government’s rules. We have a Compliance department whose sole purpose is to review and help us implement every new government rule, regulation and law. They keep us compliant with any changes needed. These coworkers are experts in their field. They patiently wade through the piles of rules and laws, helping us understand them so we can educate our members. I admire their attention to detail and focus.
Our communities are blessed with many wonderful resources for our older adults. The SHIP (Senior Health Insurance Program) offices, senior centers and regional Agencies on Aging, among others, are all hard at work deciphering the current changes and looking to the future – all so you and your loved ones can get the very best information and advice. If you need a local resource, let me know, and I’ll find you one.
In the end – regardless of changes, new rules and anything else – it’s pretty simple. If health insurance providers like us don’t offer products that fit people’s needs, people will look elsewhere. The customers, in the end, are the deciding factor – you and your loved ones pick what’s best for you. At Health Alliance, we’re proud to listen to you and search out your needs. Health insurance is a business, and you tell us what you want – and we try our hardest to offer Medicare plans that meet (and exceed!) these needs. It’s as simple as that.
I know it’s only August, but October will be here faster than you think – and as the Boy Scouts always say, “Always be prepared.”
Derek Brawner is a community and broker liaison at Health Alliance. He’s a small-town guy living in the big city of Springfield, married with two kids, a huge Star Wars fan and a griller extraordinaire.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
Olive Oil & Vicks VapoRub
(July 2022) By Denny Mekus
“Keep your feet warm, your head cool, and you’ll never be sick a day in your life…Denny, would you please just put on a hat! You’re laughing now, but you’ll remember me when I’m gone!”
– My grandmother
I heard this statement more times than I can remember – and I never knew how to respond without laughing and shrugging my shoulders. It’s one of many ridiculous sayings I miss from my childhood, only to find that I now repeat it as a parent. Daily affirmations of unproven health tips – served with a heap of confusion, and a side of guilt. Earaches were met with warm olive oil and stuffed with cotton the size of golf balls sticking out of our ears; and colds, headaches and all sorts of body aches were treated with heavy lathers of Vicks® VapoRub™ and cans of McNess® Menthol Rub resembling shoe polish from my grandfather’s barbershop. Hungry? Here’s a glass of warm milk and homemade bread with a mashed garlic spread in place of butter. I realize in writing this that it’s a miracle I was ever able to date. I’ll save the clichéd Big Fat Greek Wedding references and simply reminisce growing up in a Greek American family in a sea of blond and blue-eyed Iowa classmates.
First and foremost, it’s important to know everybody’s mother is the best cook they’ve ever known, and may God have mercy on your soul if you’re caught saying otherwise. To this point, my friends quickly learned our home had enough food to feed a small army at all times. They were also incapable of saying “no” to any Greek woman in the house, so in the midst of my 1990s teenage angst, quickly picking me up and rushing out the door was impossible. Our house was a revolving door of family and friends where once you entered, you were not allowed to leave until you’d eaten something, received a warm hug and provided a detailed update to my family on how your family was doing. No matter how many aunts and grandmothers may have been over when visiting, each gave you a hello and goodbye hug, and pressed the back of their hand to your forehead for a lovingly inaccurate health check before you left. I feel compelled to add that my mother is the best cook in the family.
The men all looked like the cast of “The Godfather,” and whereas most grandpas wore Dockers® and golf shirts, mine mowed their lawns in button-down dress shirts and polyester pants that their wives had hemmed into shorts. Our family events never truly commenced until you gave individual hellos and hugs; you were immediately tasked to see if our moms needed any help; and you received unsolicited life advice from your uncles. My grandparents and great grandparents had next to nothing when they arrived. They worked hard and cherished everything they made, and they fiercely loved and protected their growing families. My family’s story is unique to me, but relatable to many who have immigrated to this county. What I defined as overbearing was to an extent a form of Preventive Services.
I’m grateful for all of those little health checks I received growing up, disguised in loving conversations and daily family interaction. To quote the expression, “the best medicine is preventive medicine.” At Health AllianceTM we can help get you started with the many preventive services we cover if you’re in need.
I often look back at my childhood for answers or references as I navigate the waters of parenthood, and I hope I always remember these steps ingrained in me from my own upbringing. These principles remind me now to check in on the older members of my own family, and if I’m half as overbearing to my children as my family was to me, I’ll know I’m doing something right. If not, there’s always olive oil and Vicks VapoRub.
Denny Mekus is a community and broker liaison at Health Alliance. He’s a husband, a father of twins, an avid golfer and a performing musician who lives in the Quad Cities.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
Hey June!
(June 2022) By Sherry Gordon-Harris
Every season, I can’t wait for the next season to be here (like when it’s finally summer, I’m waiting for fall and the cooler temperatures). I’ve always done that, but I’m getting better about living in the moment. Hey June!
Hey June! Now that the beginning of summer is here, I’ve started thinking about a few questions. How do you want to enjoy the season we’re in? What would you like to accomplish this summer that maybe you’ve wanted to accomplish in summers past, but haven’t?
Here’s my “goal list” for a really fun family summer:
1. I want to travel more – much more. I didn’t get to go visit my Mama for the holidays because of the weather and the safety risks. Now that the snow is gone and the weather is warmer, it’s time to travel.
2. I want to take the family to a water park and amusement park.
3. I want to attend family reunions, picnics in the park and outdoor music festivals.
4. In the vein of family dinners, I want to try more fun summer recipes that will make me a culinary legend in my family’s eyes.
While you’re out accomplishing your summer goals, don’t forget about summer safety tips. Remember to never leave little ones or animals in any hot car (or hot area in general), drink plenty of water and make sure that your loved ones are getting enough hydration too – fur family included!
If you take walks late in the evening or early in the morning when there’s less light, remember to wear light or bright clothing, and maybe have a reflective light or flashlight with you – or even a reflective vest – so that people can see you and you stay safe.
Sunscreen is always important, no matter what time of year. Don’t let a cloudy day fool you when it comes to sun protection. Wearing sunscreen on cloudy days is as important as wearing it on sunny days – but on cloudy days, the sun is being sneaky, and you don’t realize how much sun you’re getting.
Summer fun awaits – have a safe and goal-filled June and beyond!
Sherry Gordon-Harris is a community liaison at Health AllianceTM. She’s a wife and mother of two boys. She enjoys traveling, collecting dolls, and hosting princess parties and pageants.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
What will your story be?
(May 2022) By Denny Mekusr
We’ve all experienced that look…Not the dreaded, “I’m not mad, I’m just disappointed” kind, but the one a parent gives you at a pizza buffet when they say their child is 5, and the kid blurts out, “No, I’m 7!”
It’s been 20 years, and I still have never felt this look as bad as when my dad turned 55 and took me to Hardee’s for his first Senior Discounted meal. He meticulously planned that we would split a 2-for-1 sandwich deal, and each get a small coffee totaling $2.75. To celebrate his newly minted discount status, he even planned to pay in quarters. His plan was playing out perfectly until I blurted out, “Can I order two extra sandwiches?” Having a shared birthday month, we’d always celebrate together in little ways. Not today. You’d swear someone blew out the candles on his birthday cake with the look of disgust I endured for the next 20 minutes. How dare his working 24-year-old son with the metabolism of a horse mess with his plan? Full disclosure…I ate three of the four sandwiches.
From a young age, my dad’s life was saddled with health concerns that were outside of his control. Where most people fight to defy the effects of father-time, he accepted aging as a welcomed inevitability. This is who my father was. He lived into his 60s never having owned a computer, purchasing his first flip-style cell phone well into the era of smartphones and continually seeking every senior discount or age-related benefit whenever possible.
This is not my mother’s story. She too had more than her fair share of health concerns, but she sees the world through completely different eyes. My mom is the kind of person who wakes up every morning and looks ready to attend a luxurious ballroom event. She’s never asked for a senior discount, and she glowingly smiles each time I (her oldest son) am as confused as her husband. I don’t share her excitement in that situation, but I do recognize that my parents lived very different stories. The older I get, I wonder what my own story will be and question if one path is better than the other.
Within our Health AllianceTM menu of educational programing, we offer three presentations that celebrate the thoughts and concerns that come with aging, each with unique perspectives into this very idea:
Don’t Call Me Old – Offers interesting stats and helpful tips to catch the ear of the Baby Boomer generation.
Healthy Aging – Tips for keeping our minds and bodies active, cutting down disease risks and saving money to live longer and fuller lives.
Your Emotional Health – Health is not only physical, but psychological health is essential too.
If you’d like to schedule a Health Alliance presentation or see a full list of our educational programs, please contact your local Community Liaison. We love talking with you and helping you in all ways.
Circling back to my parents. The other day I shamelessly bought a pair of 33-waist jeans with two inches of “built-in-flex” so I can live a lie – and I swore I felt that look again from my dad. And I still can hear his laugh when my children summon that same look out of me. Meanwhile, I’m challenged weekly by their politely-rude questioning as to why grandma is always dressed nicer than me, and I’ve never forgotten my own grandfather sharing how – even at the age of 86 and after all he did in life – he still saw the world with the same eyes as when he was 17.
The lesson? There may not be one right way to age, but if we take what we’re given – and make the best of it – we can create our own unique story.
Denny Mekus is a community and broker liaison at Health Alliance. He’s a husband, a father of twins, an avid golfer and a performing musician who lives in the Quad Cities.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
Tax Day is fast approaching – HELP!
(April 2022) By Derek Brawner
April 18 is fast approaching for all young, middle-age and older adults alike. Tax Day – most years on April 15, but this year on April 18 due to a holiday – is the day by when taxes must be filed with state and federal departments of revenue. Now, if you’re like me, I bet you waited until the very last minute to file your taxes! Hopefully this article can help – specifically those of you who are in the older generation and need help with filing your taxes.
The IRS.gov website has a good amount of information available for older adults to get help filing taxes. Perhaps most helpful is this handy webpage. Taxpayers on a fixed income need to be able to save every penny they can when it comes to preparing, filing and paying their taxes – and IRS Free File provides free online tax preparation for taxpayers with incomes less than $69,000 a year. The IRS Free File (available here on IRS.gov) offers brand-name tax-software products to help older adults and retirees file returns. You can browse multiple options to find the right help. Free File also can be filed electronically, and you can use your smartphone or tablet to file your taxes – just go to IRS.gov/FreeFile on your device. You might even be able to file your state taxes for free or with a small fee.
For older taxpayers who don’t feel comfortable with technology or who don’t have electronic devices such as a smartphone, tablet or computer – there are possibly local programs you can go to for free help. Click here to learn about the IRS programs called VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) and TCE (Tax Counseling for the Elderly). These are grant-based programs at the local level to help older adults with their taxes. You should also check with your local service agencies, libraries and churches for any tax prep help they might offer. In short, don’t be afraid to search and ask for the guidance you need – it’s often closer than you think.
Derek Brawner is a community and broker liaison at Health AllianceTM. He’s a small-town guy living in the big city of Springfield, married with two kids, a huge Star Wars fan and a griller extraordinaire.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
Turning Loss Into Luck
(March 2022) By Denny Mekus
March is a special month for me because of St. Patrick’s Day. A day burned into my memory like no other. My beautiful wife and I were married nearly 10 years, and we wanted nothing more than to become first-time parents. Our prayers were finally answered, and we were headed to our doctor’s visit. I remember the excitement of it all. How my wife squeezed my hand walking in from the parking lot; how perfectly warm the exam room was; how I confidently smiled like I had been there many times before; and how I felt totally at peace as our kind and soft-spoken ultrasound technician began the process. The next three minutes of silence were deafening, until she quietly muttered, “Will you please excuse me?” She then left the room to find the doctor. The look on her face spoke 1,000 words … we had lost the baby.
The days that followed felt like an eternity. I promised myself I would not let that moment break me, but I became lost in my emotions and couldn’t stop questioning everything I knew. For all the times I had heard, “You’ll be an amazing father someday,” I wondered, “Are you sure?” “What did I do wrong?” “Maybe I wasn’t meant to have children.”
In the world of social media and the ability to share your feelings at will, my wife and I grieved in silence. It was with the help of our good friends who had gone through the same experience themselves that we were able to pull ourselves out of the darkness. They quickly became our health advocates – and were empathetic yet tenacious in their guidance. “Are you asking the doctors the right questions?” “Have you spoken to a fertility doctor?” To this day I still do not understand “unexplained infertility,” which is probably why it’s so perfectly named! That said, I’m forever grateful for my friends’ guidance and encouragement – and the advocacy they provided when we didn’t realize we needed it most.
Whether you need someone yourself, or see an opportunity to be a health advocate for a friend or loved one, I encourage you to find (or be) that person when the opportunity arises. At Health AllianceTM, we have care coordinators to help you through this journey.
I said before that March is a special month for me. Nearly two years after that fateful day in the doctor’s office, my wife and I welcomed our twins Max and Mia into the world on March 17 … St. Patrick’s Day.
Denny Mekus is a community and broker liaison at Health Alliance. He’s a husband, a father of twins, an avid golfer and a performing musician who lives in the Quad Cities.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org . Thanks for reading!
My Love Language
(February 2022) By Sherry Gordon-Harris
My husband has a favorite football team, the Chicago Bears. Every Sunday he can be found in front of the television with his team jersey on. He’s equipped with snacks, drinks and now a brand new blue-and-orange throw blanket.
He’s a fan – but not what I’d call an extreme fanatic. The jersey and maybe a drinking cup was pretty much all he owned with the logo on it. So when I saw this blue-and-orange throw blanket, I bought it for him.
In addition to having the image of the mascot – Staley Da Bear, which resembles a grizzly – it has several other icons that I knew he’d like. There’s an orange pennant flag that says “Da Bears,” the outline of the state of Illinois and the year 1920 (when the team was first established). Most of all, I knew he’d like the football play diagram with “X’s” and “O’s.” My husband always tries to explain the plays to me using these symbols and an arrowed line to show the formation the players will take when trying to move the ball or score!
My husband loved the gift. But what he loves even more is me sitting close and watching the game with him. Even though I’m not a football fan, I sometimes sit with him out of love. Out of all the love languages, quality time is his favorite.
Everyone has their own love language – and everyone has their own preference for getting the things they need. Don’t we all like getting things, or finding things out, in our own certain ways? Which brings me, surprisingly, to health insurance! At Health AllianceTM, we offer multiple ways to receive information, in several different formats. Some prefer the paperless way of getting information through email, while others like printed paper documents and letters. We also offer lots of our information in Braille, large print or audio cd.
Whenever possible, Health Alliance is more than happy to provide you the materials you need, in the way that best fits your life. It’s what I call the “preferred information love language.”
Sherry Gordon-Harris is a community liaison at Health Alliance. She’s a wife and mother of two boys. She enjoys traveling, collecting dolls, and hosting princess parties and pageants.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
Please remember to smile.
Community Liaison
(January 2022) By Jonathan Davis
No doubt like many of us in the past few years, my family attended a funeral of a close friend not too long ago. And once again the mind of my 10-year-old surprised me and taught me something to remember.
As we sat down at this small intimate gathering of family and friends – some laughing, some crying, others sitting quietly in disbelief – my son sat quietly between my wife and I taking it all in. He sees one of his friends playing and giggling with her cousin on one side of the room. He sees close relatives comforting one another toward the front of the room. And he sees the open casket of a man he had known and loved for many years laying there too. As I prepare myself to answer any question he may ask, my son leans over and – gesturing toward the casket – says, “Dad, why isn’t he smiling?” Of all the things to notice, it was the lack of a smile that was missed most.
Friends, please remember to smile. Here we are at the beginning of a new year. New possibilities and new plans. Smile when you make eye contact with that stranger. Smile when you see a loved one. Smile when you speak with your doctor or care coordinator. Smile when you’re on the phone with a friend. Smile when it’s hard to smile. Because if a 10-year-old boy has learned to look for that reassuring smile, imagine how encouraged the rest of the world feels when they see yours.
Jonathan Davis is a community and broker liaison at Health AllianceTM. Husband and father living in central Illinois!
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
Santa Claus, a.k.a. Your Local
Community Liaison
(December 2021) By Derek Brawner
One of the best perks about being a Community Liaison for Health Alliance™ is not just educating people about Medicare and the wonderful plans Health Alliance offers. For me, one of the best things is being able to build great partnerships with the community providers in my area. Today, I’m going to let you know about one of the perks I got to do in December 2020. Let’s just say it made me jolly!
The Senior Services of Central Illinois is a local community provider of services for older adults in my territory. They don’t only provide a safe environment for these adults to go to during the day, but offer countless other services as well. They provide counseling, Meals on Wheels, education services, bingo and too many more to list. Health Alliance and I partner with Senior Services of Central Illinois to help them be able to put on activities for the older adults in their care, through sponsorship donations. Barb Hipsher, activity director for Senior Services of Central Illinois, plans many great activities every month. Barb also makes sure to invite and include me at every activity she puts on, as a thanks for sponsoring their events.
I love all the activities – but by far my favorite event is her Christmas Holiday party. Now, the last two years have had to be a little different due to COVID-19, and it had to become a drive-thru Christmas event. Last year Barb asked if I’d like to assist in handing out gifts at the drive-thru. I jumped at the chance and had a surprise for her when I showed up! I went and bought a Santa outfit to wear as I helped hand out the gifts – just my way of bringing extra cheer, since 2020 had been a tough year in so many ways. Those who came to the drive-thru event to collect gifts were so excited to see Santa – it just made their day far more than receiving a gift. And seeing their reaction really made my day. Just another great perk of my job.
The 2021 holiday season is now upon us and I was approached again to attend the Senior Services of Central Illinois Christmas event. I gladly accepted – and I just bet that Santa will also be back again this year.
Derek Brawner is a community and broker liaison at Health Alliance. He’s a small-town guy living in the big city of Springfield, married with two kids, a huge Star Wars fan and a griller extraordinaire.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
The Quality’s in the Stars
(November 2021) By Outreach Team
Kudos – it’s what we give someone when they do a good job, accomplish something incredible and inspire us. Kudos are important. Why? Because recognizing others helps them realize their efforts have not gone unnoticed.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) instituted a five-star rating system for Medicare Advantage plans.* It helps consumers compare plans based on the plan’s achievements in a number of quality measures – like helping members get important cancer screenings and better manage their chronic illnesses, and providing great customer service to both members and doctors.
Although there are many factors in place when choosing a Medicare Advantage plan, quality is key. You can review the performance of different plans over time to see if an insurer is improving the quality of their care (or not). You can also switch to a five-star plan just about any time throughout the year. This means more flexibility for you and a chance to leave lower-rated plans. As an incentive to achieve high quality for members, Medicare reimburses insurers with higher Star Ratings at a higher rate of payment. These “bonuses” must go toward improvements in the plan’s quality efforts and benefits. Some examples include wellness rewards for members who complete health screenings and transportation benefits for those with follow-up visits after a hospital discharge.
Health AllianceTM is focused on great Medicare Star Ratings as we “Strive for Five.” We take pride in our focus on quality to better improve health outcomes and the member experience for those we serve, and we strive to help improve the overall health of our communities. The Medicare Star Ratings team at Health Alliance is a wonderful group who work year-round with many other Health Alliance teams and with doctors and health systems in our communities, to continue to improve all areas of our Star Ratings.
As one of the team’s leaders told me, “We’ve been focusing on member experience – curating a comprehensive suite of health and wellness resources and information (found at hally.com), developing the Hally® mobile app for our members to use for their health and wellness journey, and much more – while also working with doctors and educating our members about the importance of engaging in activities that prevent disease and promote good health. Ultimately, we’d like to see our members stay healthy and enjoy the best quality of life possible.”
Which brings me back to kudos – to the Health Alliance Medicare Star Ratings team, we all so deeply appreciate what a great job you’ve done. Your hard work has brought better health and wellness to so many people. Thank you!
We try to provide regular “kudos” for a job well done to the people around us. We think it encourages them to reach higher accomplishments, and it gives a boost at the same time. Give it a shot and let us know if it works for you, too.
*Medicare evaluates plans based on a five-star rating system. Star Ratings are calculated each year and may change from one year to the next. That information and more can be found at medicare.gov.
At Health Alliance, our team is here to partner with you and help the members of the communities we serve together. For us, it’s all about helping community members make sure they have the information they need every step of the way as they navigate through the healthcare coverage system and life in general. Have a community outreach need or upcoming event we should be a part of? Or like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
Shopping Into the New Year This AEP
(October 2021) By Sherry Gordon-Harris
October is one of my favorite months – changing fall colors on the tree leaves, brisk walks that leave a nice rosy glow to the skin, stores filled with our favorite Halloween treats and decorative costumes. And – last but certainly not least – October is a month for celebrating fall festivals with my friends and family!
I love going to a local apple orchard where you can not only get seasonal goodies, but have good family fun. Caramel apples, homemade fudge, fresh apple pies and (another favorite!) apple cider donuts are all so yummy! Family fun includes pumpkin decorating, barrel train and pony rides, and hayrack rides in a wagon or cart pulled by a tractor.
Here at Health Alliance™, October is one of our favorite months too. The Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) for Medicare starts October 15 and runs through December 7. During this time, Medicare beneficiaries can review their Medicare plans. If after reviewing their current plan’s Annual Notice of Changes (ANOC) they find their plan doesn’t best fit their needs any more, or if they’ve had changes in their medications or overall health, they can shop for something new.
Shopping? Now that’s one of my favorite things too! But some Medicare beneficiaries aren’t sure where to start.
How exactly do you shop for a new plan?
Go to medicare.gov. This website is fairly easy to navigate for those who like to shop online.
Another great resource is your state’s Department on Aging. They offer impartial counseling services for people eligible for Medicare. Find one near you at n4a.org.
You can also contact your local State Health Insurance Program, or SHIP. SHIP is a free health benefits counseling service for Medicare beneficiaries, their caregivers and families. SHIP’s mission is to advocate, educate, counsel and empower people to make an informed decision about their healthcare benefits. Locate a SHIP counselor near you at SHIPhelp.org. Finally, our website, HealthAlliance.org/Medicare , is easy to navigate and gives a nice overview of the options we offer in each county.
Everyone has different needs and certain plans may work better for some than others. Here are some questions you may want to ask yourself while shopping for a plan (and before deciding what plan would work best for you).
Am I fairly healthy, and is saving money important to me?
Do I take prescription drugs for certain health conditions?
Do I currently have certain health problems and expect them to be ongoing based on my health history?
Do I want certain benefits that Original Medicare doesn’t cover, like dental, vision or hearing services?
Do I want to see a specific doctor or specialists?
Just as some people like hayrack rides more than pony rides, or apple pie more than fudge, we all have our own preferences and needs when it comes to healthcare coverage. It’s important to shop for a Medicare plan that best fits your needs.
Plans chosen during the Annual Enrollment Period will be effective January 1 in the upcoming year. And remember, Health Alliance is here for you. Whether you want to learn more about insurance, find helpful resources or get answers to questions big or small, it’s always easy to connect with us.
Sherry Gordon-Harris is a Community Liaison at Health Alliance. She is a wife and mother of two boys. She enjoys traveling, collecting dolls and hosting princess parties and pageants.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Longview@HealthAlliance.org.
Thanks for reading!
Look Closer – A Lesson From My Son
(September 2021) By Jonathan Davis
“Look closer and you will see a surprise.” These are the words my son whispered as he convinced me to peer into a microscope focused on a slide labeled “Berry Hair.” I was amazed at what I saw. What looked like a tiny hair to the naked eye actually appeared to be tiny blue and red spikes or stars. We spent the rest of the morning looking closer at all kinds of things, each more surprising than the last. From dragon fly wings to feathers, his microscope never failed to produce something amazing.
In today’s world – with social isolation, Zoom fatigue, anxiety and new daily stresses – we need to try and look closer at those around us. Allow me to explain.
When saying hello or asking someone, “How’s your day going?”, a lot of the time we wait for the programmed response and move on. But when someone says, “I’m good” or simply hello, that may not be the entire story. We need to look closer.
When older people ask follow-up questions like, “What was the best part of your day?” or “What will you do next?”, it gives that older person the opportunity to share wisdom, interest and knowledge that the younger person may not have gotten otherwise. When a younger person asks follow-up questions like, “What do you enjoy about days like this one?” or “Can I assist you with anything today?,” it gives that younger person the opportunity to share time, interest and even physical assistance.
The goal is to continue to connect with those around us. Both young and old, we all have something to offer each other. You might learn something new, maybe help where you didn’t know you could or simply have more than a programmed response to the world around you.
In today’s world, social isolation, Zoom fatigue and anxiety are real things many live with in our community. The next time you greet a loved one – or even a stranger – “look closer,” and the way you connect might be an unexpected surprise.
Jonathan Davis is a community and broker liaison at Health Alliance. Husband and father living in central Illinois! Like this article? Feel free to respond to Longview@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
Medicare: The 5-Part Saga
A Deep Dive into Medicare Mini-Series
(August 2021) By Derek Brawner
We know Medicare can be confusing – we’re here for you. Health AllianceTM is excited to announce that we’re presenting a new five-part mini-series on Medicare, its various parts and what you need to know to get the coverage that’s best for you.
Every year during the Annual Enrollment Period or AEP (October 15 – December 7), Medicare enrollees have an opportunity to review and accept their current plan’s upcoming changes – or they can opt to pick a new plan. In order to gear up for this time period, and to help you decide if making a plan change might be right for you, this five-part mini-series is made to give you the foundation needed to make an informed plan choice.
Each Community Liaison from across the country will present on a topic related to Medicare in this first-ever virtual educational event. In providing this mini-series to our various communities, and in a safe virtual environment, we hope to give you the knowledge you need to make informed choices.
Starting Thursday, September 2, at 1 p.m. CT / 11 a.m. PT, the mini-series continues on every Thursday at the same time through September 30.
ABCs of Medicare</br>
September 2 – 1 p.m. CT / 11 a.m. PT
To register: HealthAlliance.org/events
This course teaches the basics of the federal Medicare program and introduces your options, like Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement and prescription drug plans. You’ll learn about Medicare timelines, requirements to qualify, ID cards, enrollment methods and more. At the end of the course, you’ll know key Medicare terms and have a better understanding of the healthcare coverage options available to people who qualify. Great for individuals just turning 65 and enrolling for the first time, and as a refresher course for current Medicare members.
Medicare Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage
September 9 – 1 p.m. CT / 11 a.m. PT
To register: HealthAlliance.org/events
This course will teach you the basics of Medicare Supplement and Medicare Advantage plans. You’ll learn what these programs are, how they’re similar, how they differ, and pros and cons of signing up for one vs. the other.
Part D
September 16 – 1 p.m. CT / 11 a.m. PT
To register: HealthAlliance.org/events
Learn how Medicare prescription drug coverage works and how it can be helpful. Hear more about the options you have, drug coverage costs and how to enroll. Plus, get some helpful tips for keeping your drug costs low.
Medicare vs. Medicaid
September 23 – 1 p.m. CT / 11 a.m. PT
To register: HealthAlliance.org/events
This session teaches the basic components of Medicare and Medicaid and will explore the purposes of both entitlement programs and who qualifies for each.
Debunking Myths / Address and Prep Checklist for AEP
September 30 – 1 p.m. CT / 11 a.m. PT
To register: HealthAlliance.org/events
We’ll separate the myths from the facts, and you’ll learn how a Medicare Advantage plan can benefit you. This presentation also contains a preparation checklist for the upcoming Annual Enrollment Period (AEP).
Register today – we look forward to seeing you at this one-of-a-kind virtual learning series!
Derek Brawner is a community and broker liaison at Health Alliance. He’s a small town guy living in the big city of Springfield, married with two kids, a huge Star Wars fan and a griller extraordinaire.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
Bologna, Cheese and Me: A Multi-Generational Sandwich
(July 2021) By Lora Felger
My favorite sandwich is bologna and cheese on wheat bread with butter and ketchup. I buy the thick-sliced bologna from the meat counter at Fareway. I’m not sure how much of it they sell in a day, and I do feel the judgy sideways glances I get as I shout my order over the glass counter to the butcher. I’m not going to apologize for this childish choice – I like what I like.
As a member of Generation X, I’m part of what’s called the Sandwich Generation. I serve as the filling between my Baby Boomer parents as the top slice of bread and my one Millennial and one Generation Z sons as the bottom slice of bread. Somedays I’m the bologna, a bit childish and not necessarily “good for you”; some days I’m the cheese, silly and easy to melt; and the rest of the time I’m the butter and ketchup binding the sandwich all together.
Strange metaphor aside, there are days when I feel like I’m stuck in the middle. My parents, though blessed with pretty good health and independence, are still “gettin’ up there” in age. With them I need to be more patient, move a bit slower, plan things out carefully and be more supportive of the aches and pains they feel on a daily basis. Do I roll my eyes as I explain to my mother how to send a picture from her iPhone for the 20th time? Yes. Am I embarrassed by the white socks my father insists on wearing everywhere? Yes. Do I have a responsibility to them to be more available when they need me? Absolutely. Recently they traveled south for a month of warmer weather. This meant hauling a month’s worth of clothes, bicycles and other supplies with them. I offered to ride along just to offer that extra sense of security should they need it during the long trip. I wasn’t quite sure how they would take the offer. I wasn’t saying I didn’t think they could do it themselves, just that maybe in this case three heads might be better than two. In reality, I think they were relieved that I offered and we had a really fun road trip. Did you know Cracker Barrel has a $4.99 lunch special?
My sons are in their twenties and still learning about how life works. From them I get text pictures of eyeballs asking me if “this looks like pink eye?” My oldest son and his girlfriend recently moved to Colorado Springs. This was his first “big move” and he needed to rent a U-Haul. I offered to help them load the truck and brought along my trusty two-wheeled hand cart and my box-tape gun. I knew they could do it themselves, but when moving three sets of hands were better than two. We got into a pretty good rhythm, me filling and taping up boxes, them hauling things down the elevator.
We hit a glitch as we loaded his very tricked-out Mustang onto the trailer to tow behind the U-Haul. We couldn’t open the Mustang’s door to get out. We didn’t think the boy’s 6’2” frame or my not-exactly-svelte frame could fit through the backseat trunk access. Needing my knowledge of maneuvering a stick shift and his muscle behind to push the car, I climbed in “Dukes of Hazzard” style through the window and released the brake, clutched the car into neutral to let it roll back a bit, but still no luck with the door. So out I came back through the window, feeling frisky knowing I could still climb in and out of a NASCAR racecar if the moment ever presented itself. In the end we had to tape up the window with heavy duty tape loaned to us from a very kind trucker, and off they sailed for the West. I took a mental health day from work that following Monday. Momma needed some “me” time.
Are you part of the Sandwich Generation too? Do you find yourself the in-between person tasked with supporting aging parents and your children as they move into adulthood? Please always take the time to care for yourself as well. Your own mental health is the single most important tool you have and without it you will not be a support to either piece of bread in your sandwich. Thanks to the technology in our lives, support is available via telehealth services and you can talk to someone face-to-face right from your phone. You’re not alone in life’s pursuits – all you have to do is ask.
Lora Felger is a community and broker liaison at Health Alliance. She is the mother of two terrific boys, a world traveler and a major Iowa State Cyclones fan.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
My Post-Pandemic Travel Fantasies
(June 2021) By Sherry Gordon-Harris
Picture it: I’m somewhere on a warm sandy beach, leaned back on a comfortable beach chair and sipping on an icy drink from a tall glass with an umbrella hanging off the side. Or maybe I’m exploring the cobblestone streets of an Italian city seeing wonderful items in the marketplace and smelling freshly baked bread. Or maybe my more adventurous side has me climbing a famous mountain in the Himalayas or hang gliding from Lookout Mountain in Georgia. A girl can dream, cant’s she?
Before all this pandemic stuff happened, my husband and I traveled more often. My favorite vacation was when my husband flew me to Myrtle Beach, SC. We stayed at a hotel resort along the many miles of sandy beaches. We enjoyed amusement parks, arcades, miniature golf courses, local music and comedians, and souvenir gift shops. Of course being so close to the ocean, there were a plethora of seafood restaurants.
My favorite souvenir were these beach cups with built-in straws. The lids had a shape of a smiling sun wearing sunglasses. My cup had the message “Summer Vibes.” And my husband’s cup said “The Beach is my Happy Place.” My next favorite souvenir was the pink crown-shaped princess coin bank. My husband tried to steer me away from that section of the gift shop before I could see it. But I and my princess radar sensors prevailed!
One night while in Myrtle Beach, I looked out at the beach from my room. I saw a bunch of little lights moving around on the ground. My husband and I went to check it out. A massive amount of jellyfish had washed ashore. People were picking them up and throwing them back into the ocean. But not me! Supposedly, these type of jellyfish were not harmful. But I didn’t want to take any chances.
There are so many places in the world to visit to enjoy relaxation, festivals, amusement parks, and other cuisines and cultures. I hope to one day return to Myrtle Beach again, among other places. It’s our hope that someday soon it’ll be safe to dust off our passports and head out to our fantasy destinations.
Whether traveling near or far, members of a Medicare Advantage plan have coverage for emergency or urgent care should it become necessary. This is true regardless of whether the type of Medicare Advantage plan is a PPO, POS or HMO. Don’t worry – these plans have urgent and emergent coverage, as if in-network, available to members while traveling.
Health Alliance is always here to help you answer these types of questions – about coverage no matter where you travel – and any others you may have about your plan. Our hope is that you and your families stay well and safe. So have peace of mind on your dream vacation. Find a warm, sandy stretch near the ocean – and I’ll bring the beach chair.
Sherry Gordon-Harris is a Community Liaison at Health Alliance. She’s a wife and mother of two boys who enjoys traveling, collecting dolls, and hosting princess parties and pageants.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
Rediscovering the Lost Art of Letter Writing
(May 2021) By Jonathan Davis
How long has it been since you received an actual letter in the mail? You know what I mean – something from a friend or family member that’s handwritten and addressed with a real stamp on it. Yep, same here – it’s been a while.
I understand and appreciate the expedience of email and texting, especially for something brief and to the point. Even social media platforms contribute to modern communication. With all the communication options available today, a letter is not only a rarity but a definite attention getter. We know a lot of our Health Alliance Medicare members prefer things in writing.
I have to say I’m curious how the younger generation will learn the basics of communications. So how about a Senior Pen Pal Program?
With more school-aged children learning from home and spending more time than ever on electronic devices, let’s not forget the basics of pen and paper. In years past, there have been programs such as the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) that organized Senior Pen Pals by pairing about 200 seniors with local fourth and fifth graders. The teachers use the letter-writing exercise as a learning tool to expand the youngsters’ communications skills beyond the electronic word: email, texting, etc. The seniors and students exchange letters throughout the school year, sharing personal stories and experiences. Why not start a program like this one that can help break down age-related stereotypes and bridge the generation gap for the seniors and students?
If something like this interests you, reach out to any of your local retirement, assisted living or senior living facilities. See if they have individuals interested in sharing in this great project. You might be surprised with the overwhelmingly willing response. Or maybe you know a senior who would appreciate something in her mailbox besides a bunch of coupons or a reminder card from his dentist.
If you’d like assistance in getting local contact information, please send me an email here at Health Alliance. Of course you can always send me a note – if you can find a stamp – to this address:
Jonathan Davis is a community and broker liaison at Health Alliance. He’s a proud husband and father living in central Illinois!
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Longview@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
Virtual Visits With Your Doctor:
Pros and Cons
(April 2021) By Derek Brawner
COVID-19 took hold of not only the world stage in March 2020, but it took hold of our local communities as well. U.S. doctors limited in-person appointments and many patients avoided them for fear of infection. The result was a huge increase in the volume of virtual medical and behavioral health visits. According to a recent article by McKinsey and Company I read, doctors conducted 50 to 175 times the number of virtual visits in spring 2020 than they did in years prior. In this article, we’re going to take a look at some pros and cons of seeing a doctor via virtual visit. Please make sure to check with your medical provider to see if they offer virtual appointments. If so, most medical insurance providers now offer a virtual appointment health benefit (often referred to as telehealth or telemedicine benefits), and it would be best to call them and see if this benefit is available to you and what it entails.
Let’s start with the pros of virtual visits:
1. You usually can get an appointment quicker than trying to schedule an in-person visit.
2. You might not need to take time off from work to do a virtual visit.
3. If you don’t drive or have reliable transportation, you won’t need to worry about scheduling a ride to your appointment.
4. You don’t have to visit a crowded doctor’s office, where it’s possible to catch an infection or infect others.
5. The cost of virtual appointments might be lower than in-person appointments.
Now for some cons:
1. Some medical conditions and diagnoses require you see a doctor in-person.
2. You’ll need good internet access for virtual visits. Some rural areas might not have access to high-speed internet.
3. You might not feel as comfortable speaking with a doctor virtually, especially if you like the one-on-one aspect of in-person visits.
It’s worth noting that some people may fear that their medical information or personal data may possibly be at risk for hackers and possible identity theft. But if you use the virtual visit platform your provider or insurance company makes available to you, you can almost always have confidence that it’s safe, private and secure.
As technological advances continue, you might see more and more doctors utilizing virtual visits to see more patients and provide timely diagnosis of medical issues. You may not get that same closeness you like when you see them in person, but with new technology you can still meet with you doctor one-on-one virtually in the comfort of your own home.
I can speak from a personal experience of a virtual doctor’s appointment I’ve had. Most platforms for virtual visits let you select a backdrop on the computer, so you could have a backdrop of outer space, a beach, a garden or a family photo. During the virtual visit I felt much more relaxed at home instead of in the small, dull exam room at the doctor’s office. This made speaking with my doctor much easier. I felt that I was not rushed, and since I was more relaxed I was able to better relay my medical issues to the doctor for treatment. The best thing about the virtual visit was the amount of time I had with my doctor – they were not rushing from one exam room to the next trying to see all their patients. For me, the more one-on-one time with my doctor was a huge benefit because I felt I had the doctor’s full attention – which is what most patients want when they see the doctor, virtual or not. I’m thankful for this technology that has helped keep our life semi-normal, and grateful for these virtual visits that help keep people safe, secure, healthy and heard.
Source used to help write this article:
Oleg Bestsennyy et al., “Telehealth: A quarter-trillion-dollar post-COVID-19 reality?,” McKinsey & Company, 29 May 2020, https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/healthcare-systems-and-services/our-insights/telehealth-a-quarter-trillion-dollar-post-covid-19-reality.
Taking Time to Laugh
(March 2021)
Once we’ve made it to March, it’s usually a good sign winter is almost over. Hopefully this winter, you’ve found some time to laugh a little.
I know there hasn’t been much to laugh about these past 12 months since COVID-19 stopped us in our tracks. But hopefully, maybe, possibly, you found time for at least a little giggle? Like that first time spotting a robin tells you it’s time for bees, trees and flowers, one small little snort can lead to big laughs.
Several old friends from high school and I have a Messenger group chat we call the Hot and Sassies. We are all in our early 50s now, so “hot” takes on a whole new meaning from what it meant in our 20s. We share funny stories, wish each other happy birthday, plan on where to meet for drinks, stuff like that.
Sometimes my day can get so busy that several hours go by before I have the time to check and see what the Hot and Sassies have going on. I’ll pause while waiting in line at Walmart and read the discussion chain that has taken off without me. There are days when I literally snort out loud with laughter as I read the 10 – 20 messages that have flown by throughout the day.
My grandfather used to tell us kids, “That kind of laugher just added an extra week to your life.” Who’s to say he wasn’t right?
Laughter is part of every culture, and the physical and mental benefits are widely known. I notice laughter comes so naturally to kids and babies. Have you ever seen an 8-month-old baby who thinks his dog is just hilarious? If you need a pick-me-up today, log in to Facebook. I’m sure you can find a post that’s nothing but babies giggling. How wonderful.
In the last 12 months, I’ve realized I could use some more humor in my life, and I’m sure you could too. So let’s all have a collective laugh already. Try to keep it clean and silly though, no need to hurt any feelings. Dust off those old knock-knock jokes, slap on some giant-sized red shoes and fill up that squirting flower pin. Take the time to giggle today, and share it with someone you love while you’re at it.
Lora Felger is a community and broker liaison at Health AllianceTM. She’s the mother of two terrific boys, a world traveler and a major Iowa State Cyclones fan. Like this article? Feel free to respond to Longview@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
Thanks for reading!
My First Love
(February 2021)
My 3-year-old niece, Haddariah Rose, loves the Minnie Mouse talking doll and play costume I got her for her birthday. She holds it, talks to it, tries to feed it and makes sure her Minnie Mouse doll gets her naps too. She gives love to this doll in the purest way she knows how.
I thought she might like Minnie Mouse because she seemed to have a great admiration for polka dots. She got a polka dot dress at her first birthday party, and she didn’t want to turn it loose. She had other dresses to choose from. But she only grabbed the dress with the polka dots. (Most models of Minnie Mouse wear a polka dot dress and a gigantic bow with white polka dots.)
This got me thinking about some of the toys and styles I fell in love with during my childhood. I had a life-size doll when I was younger. And since I was an only child at that time, this doll was my playmate and best friend. I dressed her. I combed her hair. And she even wore glossy, black, patent leather shoes like I wore to church on Sundays. And I just loved having her around.
Do you remember your first favorite toy and why you fell in love with it? Was it Mr. Potato Head and his many different looks? Was it Chatty Cathy, the talking doll and her several different phrases? Was it the Howdy Doody doll from the children’s television show, the Spirograph with its many design possibilities or the Etch A Sketch mechanical drawing toy?
What causes us to become so enamored with a particular toy or first love? It could be different for all of us, and one may never know. But one thing we know is we love what we love.
Nowadays, I love helping people. And here at Health Alliance, we love always being here for you. Whether you want to learn about insurance, need helpful resources or have member questions, it’s easy to connect with us. We love to help!
Sherry Gordon-Harris is a community liaison at Health Alliance™. She’s a wife and mother of two boys. She enjoys traveling, collecting dolls, and hosting princess parties and pageants.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org.
Thanks for reading!
From the first time I saw a character on TV reach into their pocket and pull out a small device to connect with someone miles above, orbiting the planet, I’ve been fascinated with high-tech communication. (January 2021)
From the first time I saw a character on TV reach into their pocket and pull out a small device to connect with someone miles above, orbiting the planet, I’ve been fascinated with high-tech communication.
Not too long ago, cellphones were the size of a small bag (and very impractical), and tablets and video calling didn’t even exist. But now more than ever, we rely on technology to connect us nearly every day.
The telegraph was the first electrical telecommunications system, developed in the late 1830s. From then until now, so many different types of communication have come and gone, all designed to connect people across long distances. We could spend hours talking about each level in the evolution of communication, but besides stirring up some feelings of nostalgia, there would be no point.
In 2020, the way we connect with one another on a daily basis transitioned almost entirely to phone calls, text messaging, emails, conference calls and video calls. Wi-Fi speeds became more important than ever. Even 5-year-olds are using video calls to talk to their teachers and classmates, and patients of all ages are connecting to doctors through virtual visits. And even though it’s been difficult, some positive changes (like embracing virtual visits and telehealth) have been mixed in.
When it’s safe to get together again (and even as we’re still using technology to communicate), take time to remember the ways we’re able to be nice to each other. Smile at someone – even if it’s through your computer screen. When someone is speaking to you, actively listen. Remember to use the words please and thank you. These things go a long way, whether the words are typed or spoken.
When it comes to our communication, if we embrace being kind, active listeners, we’ll accomplish great things this year.
Jonathan Davis is a community and broker liaison at Health Alliance. Husband and father living in Central Illinois!
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Outreach@HealthAlliance.org.
Thanks for reading!
Thank you to our caring heroes. (December 2020)
These past eight months haven't been an easy adjustment for a lot of us during this COVID-19 pandemic. But despite the challenges of the rapidly spreading virus, home schooling, working from home and natural disasters, essential healthcare workers have more than met the challenge.
Caring for patients at their bedsides and/or in their homes was a normal part of work duties for healthcare workers before COVID-19. But soon, numerous senior centers and adult day cares closed, hospitals limited admittance, some restaurants closed and grocery stores limited operating hours.
Healthcare heroes, as we call them, emerged and helped those most at risk: seniors and those with underlying health conditions. Many stories were shared about the heroic efforts.
One of the stories was about staff from some senior centers who took care packages to the homes of seniors. Care packages included personal protective equipment (masks, hand sanitizer, etc.). They also gave rides to doctor appointments.
Another story was about staff at a senior living community building a hug station. Family and friends can make appointments to get the chance to safely hug their loved ones who are residents there. Not only were time and resources spent to build this hug station, but more work is done to clean and sanitize it after each appointment.
Yet another story is of a healthcare worker who wrote a children's book titled Heroes of a Pandemic. This is a book written specifically for children to explain how the virus began and celebrate the heroes who have emerged. And as the pandemic spread to regions with fewer resources throughout the world, the author committed all proceeds from the book to an organization he believes will be there to help, Doctors Without Borders.
And finally, I heard about some home health aides who went above and beyond the call of duty after the recent derecho, the severe storm that devastated parts of the Midwest, causing long power outages in some areas. At a particular memory care community, the residents were without power even with a generator, so the home health aides visited and sat with clients who were afraid of the dark. They also monitored the unlocked electric memory care doors for 24 hours for the safety and protection of patients.
To all of the caring heroes, we send a collective thank you! You're amazing, and we're humbled by your sacrifice. Thank you for taking such good care of our members and others.
Sherry Gordon-Harris is a community liaison at Health Alliance™. She's a wife and mother of two boys. She enjoys traveling, collecting dolls and hosting princess parties and pageants.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Longview@HealthAlliance.org.
Thanks for reading!
Toilet Paper Shortage of 2020 (November 2020)
This year has been a very interesting year to say the least. The United States has gone through months of federal, state and local stay-at-home orders due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic that’s swept the globe.
Back when it first hit the U.S., stores across the country weren’t prepared for the rush of Americans wanting to bulk up on items, and supplies ran short. The first week when officials talked about possible stay-at-home orders, stores ran out of toilet paper.
News stories and social media talked about people rushing out to buy as much toilet paper as they could. You would see stories of people with carts full of 45 rolls of toilet paper – the bulk packages, not just one, but like three or four of them. You would also see stories of people getting into fights over toilet paper in the stores. Stores finally had to limit the amount of toilet paper you could buy to try and ensure people could get it. Some stores even had to move the toilet paper to a safe spot in the store or have employees guard it in the aisle.
I will admit that at first, I was a little surprised by the rush on toilet paper versus other items I would deem essential. The first few days that I heard about stores running out of toilet paper, I wondered if I should get some or just continue to buy the usual amount when I do my weekly shopping.
I didn’t want to rush out and buy up a bunch of toilet paper, but my dad and grandparents have always taught me to be prepared and sometimes buy items in bulk if prices are right.
Alas, I succumbed to the fear of possibly not having any toilet paper for me or my family, so I did buy some. I asked my wife when I was at the store if I should buy a bunch of rolls. She said no and that I should buy just enough for us to get by until supplies get balanced back out and to think of others that also need toilet paper.
I didn’t buy any more than I thought I needed, so I basically bought a month supply instead of the amount I normally buy. The supply I bought was able to hold me and my family over until the stores could start keeping supply on the shelves.
(Now for the funny part to this toilet paper shortage of 2020.) When the shopping rush calmed down and supplies started to come back into the stores, some of the people who had rushed out and bought up so much toilet paper could not resell it on the internet, so they tried to return it to the stores. Some people even had to resell the toilet paper at a loss just to get rid of all the extra they had.
I guess the lesson I’ve learned (and the moral of this article) is to please be thoughtful of others. We as a society need to think of everybody and not just ourselves, even when it comes to purchasing essential supplies for a crisis. Please be thoughtful when shopping. There might only be four packages of toilet paper, hamburger, canned vegetables, etc., so ask yourself if you need all four or maybe just two so the person behind you can get some also.
Derek Brawner is a community and broker liaison at Health Alliance™. He’s a small-town guy living in the big city of Springfield, married with two kids, a huge Star Wars fan and a griller extraordinaire.
Medicare Retail Therapy (October 2020)
October is a great month for fall colors, brisk walks that leave a nice rosy glow to the skin and stores filled with our favorite Halloween treats! The smell of fire pits and pumpkin spiced everything fills the air. College football is in full swing (fingers crossed for this year!). I’ve found that there’s a very special shade of blue in the sky during the month of October.
Shopping is another fall favorite, as the season’s latest fall-colored sweaters and cozy lounge wear arrive in the stores. Unfortunately, the tactile satisfaction I get by flipping from one hanger to the next on a round rack of sale items lately hasn’t been the most comfortable endeavor depending on how many COVID germs are floating about. Practicing (most likely perfecting) retail therapy online has been my saving grace.
Your Health Alliance™ team considers October one of our favorite months too. It kicks off the start of the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) for Medicare beneficiaries. October 15 through December 7 is Medicare AEP, and during this time, beneficiaries can review their Medicare plans. Times change and so do our life situations. Sometimes what worked for you in the past doesn’t work for you today. Changes in medications, your health and even your doctors can be the reason to look into making some changes to your total Medicare package. Did you know that shopping for Medicare plans can offer you a chance to practice some online retail therapy too? How exactly do you shop for a plan?
If Medicare is new to you, start with the basics. Go to Medicare.gov. This website is fairly easy to navigate for those who like to shop online. Another great resource is your state’s Department on Aging. They offer impartial counseling services for people who are Medicare eligible. Find one near you at n4a.org.
You can also contact your local State Health Insurance Program, or SHIP. SHIP is a free health benefits counseling service for Medicare beneficiaries, their caregivers, and families. The mission of SHIP is to advocate, educate, counsel and empower people to make an informed decision about their healthcare benefits.
If you’ve had Medicare for quite some time but want to shop around a little, consider looking a little deeper into the companies that serve your area.
Social media is a great shopping tool. Health Alliance has developed a series of social media-hosted mini classes and webinars geared toward helping you build your Medicare wardrobe that’s custom-made for your needs. Search for companies and Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to see what they have to offer.
Company websites are another good resource. Our website, Medicare.HealthAlliance.org/ is easy to navigate and gives a nice overview of the options we offer in each county.
Just like the perfect pair of blue jeans, everyone has different needs and certain plans may work better for some than others. Here are some questions shoppers may want to ask themselves before deciding what plan would work best for them.
Am I fairly healthy and is saving money important to me?
Do I take prescription drugs for certain health conditions?
Do I currently have certain health problems and expect them to be ongoing based on my health history?
Do I want certain benefits that original Medicare doesn’t cover, like dental, vision or hearing services?
Do I want to see a specific doctor or specialists?
It’s important for beneficiaries to weigh the options and find the right balance in their Medicare plan. Plans chosen during the Annual Enrollment Period will be effective January 1, 2020.
Lora Felger is a community and broker liaison at Health Alliance. She is the mother of two terrific boys, a world traveler and a major Iowa State Cyclones fan.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Longview@HealthAlliance.org.
Thanks for reading!
Everybody Needs a Play Break (September 2020)
In mid-March, so many things changed. Life as we knew it would be different moving forward. Instead of telling you about how I began watching the news every night, or how the world’s current count would rise every morning or recapping how I tried to become an expert on all things transmittable, only to find out what I learned an hour ago had no bearing on what was stated in the last 30 seconds, I would rather write about something that has surprised me during this time period. My eight year old son and his adaptability.
Due to events in March, I now work from home. Right away, my son helped me settle in. He would bring me water and coffee. He would deliver messages from my wife. He would ask me how work was going. He would update me on his latest Lego project. Never staying too long, knowing I had to work. I knew all this was just an excuse to come visit me in my guest bedroom/converted office. Always knocking before entering the room and always saying, “I’ll see you soon” as he left. He was going to take full advantage of having me at home.
After about a week the “new normal” was starting to get to me. My job had changed, my social, spiritual and physical schedule had changed. Realizing how I was feeling, I spoke with my family. Both my wife and son said they were doing fine. Later that day though, my eight year old stops by for one of his normal visits. He knocks softly on the office door then enters. With a mischievous smile he says, “Dad I have a plan.” He spends the next few minutes explaining that we need to take play breaks every day. It would keep us happy and besides, it will be fun. Play breaks, so simple yet so effective.
Now, when I hit a wall at work or my stress level gets a bit high, I know it’s time for a play break. Fifteen or twenty minutes with my family and Legos, a puzzle or a simple conversation goes along way. That brings me to my point of all this. We all had to figure out how to adapt to our new normal. If an eight year old little boy can figure out ways to do this, so could anyone else. A phone call to a friend, a walk around the block, a jigsaw puzzle or Legos, you decide what the best play break for you should be and add it to your new normal. If we can become as adaptable as a young child, no matter how many things change, we will always have something to help get us through.
Remember, Health Alliance™ is here for you when you need us. If you are a Health Alliance member or you are serving a Health Alliance member, you have access to a care coordinator or health coach to help you navigate things in your life.
Jonathan Davis is a community and broker liaison at Health Alliance. He’s a husband and father living in central Illinois.
Old MacDonald Had a Farm (August 2020)
One of my favorite childhood nursey rhyme songs is “Old MacDonald Had a Farm.” It was super-duper fun to sing ee-i-ee-i-o! Not to mention singing the sounds of some animals he had on his farm. The cows said moo-moo! The chicks said cluck-cluck! And the pigs said oink-oink!
As an adult I wonder, “What other animals did Mr. MacDonald have on his farm?” And did he grow any vegetables? When I attend farmers markets today, I mostly see fresh produce, fruits and vegetables. I also see some value-added products made with the produce, such as canned jams, canned salsa and zucchini breads. I’ve seen one or two farmer vendors that sold frozen beef, chicken and pork. They were no longer saying moo-moo, cluck-cluck, or oink-oink!
The first week of August is National Farmers Market Week. This year, it will be August 2 - 8. Some communities celebrate National Farmers Market Week with fun events, food, music, craft vendors, resource vendors, specials, contests and activities.
Celebrating National Farmers Market Week is a great opportunity to show the nation how much value markets bring to their communities. Farmers markets make positive impacts on their communities’ health and wealth.
Farmers markets help do several things, including the following:
• Preserve farmland.
• Stimulate local economies.
• Increase access to nutritious foods.
• Support healthy communities.
• Promote sustainability.
Health Alliance™ supports the purposes of local farmers markets. A partial list of farmers markets in areas we serve includes:
• Peoria Riverfront Market – Peoria, IL
• Galesburg Farmers Market – Galesburg, IL
• Kankakee Farmers Market – Kankakee, IL
• Edgebrook Farmers Market – Rockford, IL
• Macomb Farmers Market – Macomb, IL
• Champaign Farmers Market – Champaign, IL
• Old Capitol Farmers Market – Springfield, IL
• Freight House Farmers Market – Davenport, IA
As you visit your local farmers markets, remember Mr. Old MacDonald and his farm. You may even see a friendly face of a local Health Alliance community liaison.
Easter Eggs Year Round (July 2020)
The English author and cleric Robert Aris Willmott said, “Joy and grief are never far apart.” I’ve found that in my own personal grief situations, I do have to work at the joy part. Looking for joy is like flexing a muscle, and every day I seek to strengthen my awareness of joy all around me.
I recently lost a friend, co-worker and mentor to cancer. To say she fought her battle in the most beautiful, joyful way sounds strange, but that was Merv. She was a beauty both inside and out. I was angry that she didn’t get what she was joyfully certain she would achieve, which was victory over her disease. She simply saw no other alternative and because of her, we didn’t either. Merv died on a Sunday, the day after another dear friend, co-worker and mentor would have celebrated her 78th birthday. Her name was Margo and she appears in my sub-conscience every now and then with one of her little words of wisdom, or to whisper calm down Lora Sue, or to simply give me the inspiration to sparkle something up in my life. I know this makes no sense to anyone but me, but I’m certain Margo and Merv are sharing a bottle of wine in the afterlife. They’ll hit it off. They both had a deep certainty that there was good everywhere. This to me is joy in the face of grief.
Are you familiar with the movie and television industry’s little trick called Easter eggs? It’s something that certain writers like to do. They hide a secret little image or message in the background of their programs and call them Easter eggs. Alfred Hitchcock and Stan Lee were both famous for doing this. Both would insert themselves somewhere in the background of a scene. It’s really kind of genius if you think about it. Hunting for an Easter egg makes you pay more attention to the movie. Some other fun Easter eggs in movies includes hidden hieroglyphs of C-3PO and R2-D2 in Raiders of the Lost Ark or Sid’s reappearance in Toy Story 3.
While I’m writing this, people have to stay at home for Easter egg hunts thanks to a rotten egg called COVID 19. The grief caused by this virus is all around us – the loss of friends or loved ones, the loss of important family events like weddings and graduations, and the loss of businesses and jobs. Loss, loneliness and anxiety cause us to grieve. It’s OK, even healthy, to grieve and we need to recognize that when it happens to us. But try and look for some joy too. Have an Easter egg hunt and look for joy. Doing so won’t minimize or eliminate the grief, but it might add more dimension and meaning as we heal.
Because we write these articles months in advance sometimes, we may be a long way from Easter when this goes to print. This seems OK to me though, because I think we’re all going to need some time to recover from the grief handed out in the spring of 2020. So I say to you, keep your Easter baskets out and collect those eggs year round. Joy isn’t going anywhere.
Dedicated in loving memory of Mervet Adams, long time Health Alliance Community Liaison and great friend.
Lora Felger is a community and broker liaison at Health Allianceô. She’s the mother of two terrific boys, a world traveler and a major Iowa State Cyclones fan. Like this article? Feel free to respond to Longview@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
OMG I'm Turning into My Father (June 2020)
In the 10 years we’ve been married, my wife says more and more frequently, “You’re just like your father.” The truth is I think my father’s the greatest man I know. Here are a few examples of the things I’ve picked up from him.
I’ve started waking up early on the weekends. While I was growing up, my dad would get up every morning around 5 a.m. to start his day whether it be a weekday or weekend. I would always wonder why he was up that early and now that I’m in my 40’s, I understand. Getting up early on the weekend and starting my day, I have noticed that I can get most of my chores, errands and other stuff done before noon. We work all week to make it to the weekend, but being adults, we still have responsibilities even on the weekend. The great thing about getting everything done before noon is that I have the rest of the day to do what I want. My wife, on the other hand, will sleep in until noon or 1 p.m. on the weekends and lose most of her day. When I was in my 20’s, I would want to sleep in as long as I could on the weekends too, but my body is happier now rising and shining early to start my day.
My father and I had season tickets to the University of Illinois basketball games when I was still in my 20’s. We lived about an hour and a half away from Champaign. My younger self could not comprehend why we needed to leave at 9 a.m. for a 1 p.m. tip-off. Insanity! We’ll be four hours early! Now in my 40’s, I completely understand. One reason was that we never knew what kind of weather we’d be driving in. Illinois can experience all four seasons in one day. Fog between Springfield to Champaign was always possible. Secondly, the early bird avoids the long food lines. Neither my father nor I like standing in lines, especially when hungry. Truth be told, I love being the one driving my wife nuts now with my very early departure times.
This last one I enjoy the most because it frustrates my wife the most. I do the majority of the shopping for the house. As I mentioned in the first paragraph, this happens very early before she even wakes up. I like to pre-map out an efficient circle that I follow when running errands. By circle, I mean that before I even leave the house, I lay out a route where I start at my house and end at my house with no unnecessary deviations. It drives my wife crazy because I’m talking out loud to myself mentally laying out my route before leaving the house. She would rather just fly by the seat of her pants and see what happens. To me, she sounds like the crazy one. I try to explain that careful routing and planning means less meaningless wandering and more efficient use of our time. Thanks again dad.
Many of us declare in our youth that, “I will not be like my father.” But as time goes by, many of my dad’s little quirks start coming out in me drip by drip. I say don’t be mad or sad, embrace them! These quirks have probably been passed down for generations in your family. I have two kids and am trying to teach them the wise and wonderful traditions I’ve learned from my dad. They’ll appreciate this someday, but it might take a few decades. Happy Father’s Day to all of you quirky and wonderful fathers out there.
Derek Brawner is a community and broker liaison at Health Alliance. He’s a small town guy living in the big city of Springfield, married with two kids, huge Star Wars fan and griller extraordinaire.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Longview@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
Rediscover Lost Art of Letter Writing (May 2020)
How long has it been since you received an actual letter in the mail?
You know what I mean, something from a friend or family member that is handwritten and addressed with a real stamp on it? Do you even keep stamps in the house? I usually keep a few for the one or two bills I don’t have set up for online payment.
Right now, my stamp supply still features Santa Claus’ face. That’s how many letters I send these days.
I understand and appreciate the quickness of email and texting, especially for something brief and to the point. Skype is helping to keep many businesses moving as they adjust to so many employees working from home.
With all the electronic communication options available today, a letter is not only a rarity but a definite attention getter. Chances are, if you’re getting something in your mailbox with your name handwritten on it and an actual stamp attached, it’s from a parent or grandparent remembering your birthday.
I can still remember how much I enjoyed getting letters when I was at camp. My cousin and I went to Girl Scout camp in Wisconsin when we were about 8 years old. We got postcards each day from our parents and grandparents that ended with the exact same line, “Remember to change your underwear.” It still sticks in my mind some 45 years later, so it really meant something.
Attention to all of you: It’s that time again to honor those who gave us life or those not related to us who gave us a new outlook on life, Mother’s Day!
How can we honor mothers and grandmothers in this new world where a seemingly undetectable germ for some can cause a dire illness or hospitalization for others, especially in the older population?
After weeks of being apart, can you imagine the joy a handwritten letter could bring to our mothers (and fathers)? Handwritten letters take more time than typing, but they tend to make us more focused on what we are actually taking the time to write. Handwritten letters are straight from the heart and out through our fingertips.
While you’ve got that pen/pencil/crayon in your hand, let’s keep the good mojo going. Contact your local senior center or senior living facility and offer to write to someone they suggest that could use some cheering up.
Being a Part of Something Special (April 2020)
I was recently part of helping with the community commitment grants review committee for the Community Foundation of East Central Illinois (CFECI).
It all started through joining an effort with CFECI for the Aspiring Philanthropists Giving Circle. They asked if I would be interested in supporting the community commitment grant review. I was honored. This meant I had the privilege to review multiple applications from many important not-for-profits that serve central Illinois.
I got to go out into the community and visit with some of the organizations that applied for grants to see the work they do and learn more about their needs. These organizations serve the community in very different ways, which makes the review process that much harder.
I was familiar with some of the organizations through my outreach work for Health Alliance. We drive out to the communities we serve to build relationships there.
That’s our local commitment. We’re not just all about health insurance but rather, how to keep a community viable and sustainable so people who live there feel good about where they live. It’s very important for us to engage and participate in these communities by serving in capacities like I do with the Community Foundation of East Central Illinois.
But let me get back to sharing my experience with the grant reviews.
There’s so much value in getting to spend time with individuals who are so passionate about the work they do. Did you know that Rantoul, IL, has the Rantoul Historical Society Museum? I really enjoyed meeting with Jim and learning more about its mission. It also preserves the brown and white mustang horse that used to be at the Ben Franklin dime store, which brought back so many memories of riding that horse when I was younger.
I also got to spend time meeting with Patrice from the Peace Meal Senior Nutrition Program, working by the Community Service Center of Northern Champaign County in Rantoul, Marcie from the Survivor Resource Center in Danville, and Beth from the Hoopeston Multi-Agency Service Center. It was such a pleasure to meet all of them and hear about the important needs their organizations have.
They all demonstrate passion for serving their communities, working on very limited resources and budgets while staying positive so the clients they serve have the best experience.
The volunteers who serve in these organizations exhibit the same passion and commitment to showing up every day to make a difference. Each one of them lit up when they were describing their programs and services and how they impact people’s lives.
That meant a lot to me during the grant review process. When you go in thinking about how you’re going to support this important financial decision you need to know that the people behind it are also just as committed to using dollars wisely and creating successful outcomes.
This is one of the many reasons I love working for Health Alliance. We’re committed to helping care for those in the communities we serve.
If you get an opportunity to participate on a committee or board in the nonprofit space, it’s very fulfilling. A great place to start is with joining programs like Aspiring Philanthropists or projects the United Way supports. Or if you feel compelled, donate.
If you have questions on where to turn, don’t hesitate to reach out. We may not have all the answers, but we know who in the community does and are happy to connect you!
Terra Mullins leads the Community Outreach Team at Health Alliance. She is a wife, a mother, and has two really cute Mal-Shi pups! She loves nature and learning new things.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Longview@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!
The Power of Pets (March 2020)
My mother received a puppy as a gift. My father-in-law found this little chocolate Labrador lost in the woods where they live in rural Mississippi. She named him Cocoa. She sent me a photo and called me with such joy and happiness. She was holding him all wrapped up in a blanket like a baby.
Cocoa gave my mother such needed companionship. She is usually at home all day by herself while her husband is at work. She has her household chores and hobbies, like sewing, to keep her busy throughout the day. Despite those activities, she has often stated that she experienced boredom before Cocoa came into her life.
Studies have shown that the bond between people and their pets can reduce loneliness and bring happiness to their owners. Nothing compares to the joy a pet companion brings.
Their unconditional love can actually do more than keep someone company. Human-animal interactions can be therapeutic, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Pets may also decrease stress, improve heart health, and even help children with their emotional and social skills. Pets can increase opportunities to exercise, get outside, and socialize.
I recently learned during my visit to an assisted lifestyle community that even though some buildings’ policies don’t permit pets, there are exceptions. Pets that are service or support pets may be permitted. At this particular place, a support pet may be permitted under certain conditions.
1. A note from the resident’s doctor must be obtained stating that the pet is needed for emotional support.
2. The resident must take the pet to the veterinarian and show proof that the pet has received their appropriate shots and medicines.
3. The resident must sign an agreement that they will take care of the pet.
To learn more about adopting a pet and pet wellness, visit JustAnimals.org and PetFinder.com.
When it comes to health, I hope that every human-animal interaction is “PAWSitive!”
Sherry Gordon-Harris is a community liaison at Health Alliance. She is a wife and mother of two boys. She enjoys traveling, collecting dolls, and hosting princess parties and pageants.
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Longview@healthalliance.org. Thanks for reading!
How Do You Take Your Doctor? (February 2020)
I will do absolutely anything to avoid going to the doctor. I think it’s because I’m part of that sandwich generation, where my elders seem to schedule their social lives around doctor’s appointments, and my children think you can just watch a YouTube video and cure anything.
Let’s be honest here. My top reason for not wanting to go to the doctor is having to get on the scale. The whole process drives up my blood pressure and impacts my perfectly oblivious state of mind. I’ll try just about everything first to avoid asking for some help.
I recently had to visit a doctor because I needed to have something lanced. I’m not going to get any deeper into detail here, but there is a show on cable TV that shows a dermatologist building her practice around “popping” things that grow on our bodies. So that was the vision I had in my head.
I had already tried every Pinterest home remedy I could find. Nothing worked, so Monday comes around, and I finally decided I needed to see a doctor. Thankfully, I had several options for how to receive my “doctoring.” I like options. They make me feel like I have some semblance of control over what is happening.
Do you realize you have a menu of choices when it comes to seeing a doctor?
1. Traditional primary care clinics. This is most likely the best option for all of us. Having a primary care provider who knows us well, understands our medical history, and has developed a care treatment plan unique to our own special needs is ideal. I have one, haven’t seen him in about a year so it is time again, but I do have one.
I didn’t choose this option for a few reasons. A.) His office is a bit of a drive. B.) I probably needed to get in that day. C.) I didn’t want to have to answer questions like, “What were you thinking?”
2. House calls. Here in the Quad Cities, we are lucky to have some primary care providers willing to make house calls. This particular practice is targeting those who have mobility challenges, like aging patients, but hey, if you like this idea, check it out.
Again, not a good choice for me because there is some lead time needed to make an appointment. Check with your local health systems to determine if there are house call primary care practices available in your area.
3. Virtual Visits and Telemedicine. Because technology is our friend, many insurance plans are offering members the ability to use their smart phones (sorry, Dad, not the flip phone), tablets, or computers to consult a doctor, 24/7 and 365 days a year, wherever you are. This option can help with well over 50 health conditions, but I didn’t choose this one because I thought the doctor would need to perform a procedure.
I’m sure someday we’ll all be going online to order a robotic arm accessory for our phone so a doctor can remove our appendix. Someday, but not today.
4. Convenient or urgent care clinics. This is the option I chose after discovering that I could go online and choose my time slot. I also discovered that sometime over the summer, a brand-new clinic opened up about 1,000 feet from my residence. It even had a little clock showing how long the wait times were if I had just walked in off the street. No lines, no waiting, no commute, no excuses not to go.
I scheduled a 9:30 a.m. appointment and was off the scale (I didn’t look) and in the examining room by 9:40. The doctor checked me out and laughed at my Pinterest mishaps. I was out by 10:10 a.m. and off to the pharmacy.
So the moral of the story here is pretty simple: Doctors and other healthcare professionals want to help you get better. It’s pretty much what they do, and they went to school for a lot of years to learn how.
Healthcare professionals understand that the modern lives we live can complicate fitting an office visit into an already full schedule. In an effort to meet you where you are, they’ve gone to great lengths to offer options to suit your needs. Location options, options around operating hours, options using technology. Let them help you (like I eventually let them help me).
Lora Felger is a community and broker liaison at Health Alliance. She is the mother of 2 terrific boys, a world traveler, and a major Iowa State Cyclones fan.
20/20 Vision for the New Year (January 2020)
Happy New Year to all! I think this year is going to be kind of fun as we set our sights on new adventures and keep an eye on our health and well-being!
For the past few years, I’ve steered clear from New Year’s resolutions and have tried to find new ways to view what’s ahead. This year, I decided to create a vision board! There is no better time than 2020, right? Some of you may be wondering what a vision board is, how it works, and how it can make a person happy.
A vision board is a collage of pictures and/or words that represent the life you want to live. It could be what you are hoping for, certain things you want to focus on for your future, or just the things that make you happy! It can have as many or as few representations as you want. It’s up to you. What matters is that you are the one creating it, and every time you see it, it’s a reminder that you are unique and that what inspires you doesn’t need anyone else’s approval.
Visualization is one of the most powerful mind exercises you can do. It helps erase negative thoughts in a way and keeps your mind clear to let positive thoughts in.
I love creativity and being crafty, so for my vision board, I am getting a poster board and using scissors and glue the “old school” way. Of course, there are other ways, like a digital vision board, Pinterest, or other forms of social media. It’s up to the individual.
Once you’ve made your vision board, you can put it in a spot where you will see it most often. Throughout the day, you will end up doing brief visualization exercises, and believe it or not, what you focus on expands. Wouldn’t you rather think happy thoughts throughout your day and throughout the year?
So what does my vision board look like in 2020?
Just to give you a glimpse of what makes me happy, my vision board will have pictures of my family (to represent love), flowers, birds, waterfalls and the sky (to represent nature and calmness), words that represent health (like energy, balance, and healing), and beads and baubles (just for fun to give my board more texture and dimension).
In this new year, visualize a happier you. Let’s have 20/20 vision in 2020 to clearly reach your dreams! What will your vision board look like?
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Longview@healthalliance.org. Thanks for reading!
Mervet Adams is a community liaison with Health Alliance. She loves her grandson, family, nature, and fashion. Like this article? Feel free to respond to Longview@healthalliance.org. Thanks for reading!
Healthy Holidays! (December 2019)
As I’m on my journey of healthy eating and living, I fret about the challenge of the upcoming holidays. Normally around December and January, there are holiday celebrations where there’s an abundance of food, deserts, and candy.
There are potlucks at work with colleagues. There are holiday parties with friends. There are feasts at our places of worship with fellow congregants. There are family get-togethers with parents, siblings, nieces, nephews, and other relatives. And if you’re married, there may be those types of gatherings on both your and your spouse’s side. Yikes! Double whammy!
It seems there are carbs, sugars, and calories flowing everywhere. “Will my willpower be strong enough?” I ask myself. “Will I be able to resist or keep it to a reasonable limit?”
Recently, I came across an article titled “Realistic and Healthy Holiday Eating Tips” in a publication called Live Well. Some of the suggestions included:
Use a smaller plate. This helps encourage proper portion sizes and can help prevent overeating.
Start each meal by filling half your plate with fruits and vegetables. The idea is to run out of room for the other less nutritious foods.
Include lots of fiber in your diet. High-fiber foods, like beans and legumes, are very filling. They satisfy hunger without all the extra calories.
Choose a broth-based soup instead of a creamy soup. Try one with a variety of vegetables, beans and spices, with low-sodium broth if possible.
My plan is to try these suggestions so I can enjoy friends, family, and food without worrying about putting on extra pounds. Mindful preparation and mindful eating is the secret to healthy holidays!
Of course, it’s always wise to talk to your provider about your specific nutrition needs.
Happy and healthy holidays from Health Alliance!
Like this article? Feel free to respond to Longview@healthalliance.org. Thanks for reading!
Sherry Gordon-Harris is a community liaison at Health Alliance. She is a wife and mother of two boys. She enjoys traveling, collecting dolls, and hosting princess parties and pageants.<
Winter Is Coming Again: You Can
Pout a Little but Don't Get SAD (November 2019)
Everyone who thinks last winter was a delightful experience, raise your hand. Anyone? Anyone? I didn’t think so.
I can remember days last winter when I was dressing in 6 or 7 layers to take my dog out to do his “business.” I was certain he was making an obscene gesture behind my back.
Who could blame him? Nobody wants to take care of such delicate natural business on a glacier. OK, penguins and polar bears maybe but certainly not yellow Labrador retrievers.
I think it’s safe to say that we here in the middle parts of the country were a bunch of collectively grumpy popsicles. I’m willing to wager that mental health practitioners saw a drastic upswing in seasonally related depression.
As we make the swing into November and the winter months ahead, I notice things like how dark it is as I head to my car at the end of the workday. Unfortunately, the decrease in sunlight hours affects some people in a more serious way.
Many notice a lack of energy and loss of interest in their work and social activities. For some reason, winter saps their enthusiasm for everything. If you find yourself nodding your head, you are not alone in feeling this way.
If you or a loved one suspects you have seasonal affective disorder (SAD), there are ways to help.
I found some sound advice from a former Health Alliance medical director that might be helpful to you:
Start with your primary care provider to make sure there aren’t any other underlying medical issues. He or she can provide treatment or refer you to a specialist. It’s important to pay attention to the onset of symptoms and what you are experiencing.
Ask about treatment options, like light therapy, counseling, and antidepressants. Would a vitamin D supplement be effective?
Wouldn’t it be great if we could get a prescription from our doctor for travel to a beach in the Caribbean? Maybe with a small $10 copay? It probably won’t happen anytime soon, but certainly getting away from what is depressing you can help. Head south! Or hang a poster of a beach in Tahiti above your bed – whatever it takes to change your mindset away from what is actually happening outside your door.
Have a frank conversation with your loved ones about what they are feeling and experiencing. Or if you need help, please tell a friend or family member and your doctor.
We are all rugged Midwesterners. Just like the squirrels in our backyards, we can start storing away the things we might need to survive the winter.
I'm considering a snowmobile suit to match my spike-bottomed expedition boots. What can you do to better prepare for this condition ahead of time and make this winter as warm, snuggly, and enjoyable as possible?
Lora Felger is a community and broker liaison at Health Alliance. She is the mother of two terrific boys, a world traveler, and a major Iowa State Cyclones fan. Like this article? Feel free to respond to Longview@HealthAlliance.org.
Thanks for reading!<
Weigh Your Options This AEP (October 2019)
October is my favorite month—fall colors, brisk walks that leave a nice rosy glow to the skin, stores filled with our favorite Halloween treats, and last but not least, celebrating my birthday month with my friends and family!
I am the true Libra child, always trying to provide peace and harmony regardless of what setting I’m in and trying to keep everyone happy. My zodiac symbol is the scale, which means I always strive to create balance when things seem off, and I also weigh options before making decisions.
Here at Health Alliance, October is one of our favorite months too. It kicks off the start of the Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) for Medicare beneficiaries. October 15 through December 7 is Medicare AEP, and during this time, beneficiaries can review their Medicare plans. If they find theirs doesn’t work for them the way it used to, or they have had changes in their medications or overall health, they can shop for something new.
Shopping? Now that’s one of my favorite things too! But some Medicare beneficiaries aren’t sure where to start.
How exactly do you shop for a plan?
Go to Medicare.gov. This website is fairly easy to navigate for those who like to shop online.
Another great resource is your state’s Department on Aging. They offer impartial counseling services for people who are Medicare eligible. Find one near you at n4a.org.
You can also contact your local State Health Insurance Program, or SHIP. SHIP is a free health benefits counseling service for Medicare beneficiaries, their caregivers, and families. The mission of SHIP is to advocate, educate, counsel, and empower people to make an informed decision about their healthcare benefits.
Our website, HealthAllianceMedicare.org, is easy to navigate and gives a nice overview of the options we offer in each county.
Everyone has different needs and certain plans may work better for some than others. Here are some questions shoppers may want to ask themselves before deciding what plan would work best for them.
Am I fairly healthy, and is saving money important to me?
Do I take prescription drugs for certain health conditions?
Do I currently have certain health problems and expect them to be ongoing based on my health history?
Do I want certain benefits that original Medicare doesn’t cover, like dental, vision, or hearing services?
Do I want to see a specific doctor or specialists?
Just as the Libra scales remind us, it’s important for beneficiaries to weigh the options and find the right balance in their Medicare plan. Plans chosen during the Annual Enrollment Period will be effective January 1, 2020.
Mervet Adams is a community liaison with Health Alliance. She loves her grandson, family, nature, and fashion. Like this article? Feel free to respond to Longview@HealthAlliance.org. Thanks for reading!<
The Pursuit of the Greater Good (September 2019)
I’ve come to the conclusion that pursuit of the greater good can require financial sacrifice, possibly some short-term pain, and definitely a little patience. Darn it.
As I write this article, the Quad Cities is wading through a historic flood of the Mississippi River. Today in particular, the people of the Quad Cities can choose a drive-thru location in either Illinois or Iowa to drop off monetary donations. What a great opportunity as fellow Quad Citizens to make a financial sacrifice to the greater good of helping our community as it recovers from this flood.
How nice of the organizers of this event to recognize the greater good of having donation drop-off sites on both sides of the Mississippi River. Why? Because it saves many of us questioning the temporary not-so-great good of having to deal with the construction of our brand-new beautiful Interstate 74 bridge (which will serve the greater good) and with the flooding around the other two metro bridges.
My son Scoobs recently had to have his wisdom teeth removed. As he dramatically explained to me that the pain made him think he knew exactly how Jesus felt on the cross, I rolled my eyes and reminded him of the greater good of getting them out now versus dealing with dental problems later. Short-term pain equals long-term gain. And while Jesus is considered by Christians as the ultimate example of greater good in action, my son’s temporary pain was not nearly that Earth-changing.
I must confess to you that during a recent knee injury, my patience was tested as I pursued the greater good of getting a working leg again. In fact, I have no patience whatsoever when it comes to going to the doctor. If you must know, I’m down right cranky.
My very capable and wonderfully kind primary care provider thought it would be more efficient for me to have an MRI completed and available prior to referring me to an orthopedic specialist. Perhaps the fact that he had an extremely impatient and cranky middle-aged woman in his office demanding he simply wave his magic wand and fix me motivated him to find a solution more quickly than prudence and medical science would allow.
When my health insurance company (which happens to also be my employer) denied the preauthorization request for an MRI, I admit I was a bit ticked off. Who are they to say what my doctor can and cannot order for me?
In my mind, being told “no” was standing between me and getting my knee fixed. Well, truthfully, a team of other doctors offered a different approach. While one doctor felt like the MRI would be helpful before I saw the orthopedic specialist, the preauthorization process of best practice reviews by other doctors pointed out that maybe the specialist would be better able to decide whether such a procedure was necessary based on his or her specific skills and experience.
The preauthorization process is like getting a second opinion from other medical professionals. It helps mitigate excessive treatments that may cause more pain and expenses than necessary. My first doctor wasn’t wrong or trying to add excessive charges to my bill. He simply made a decision (most likely based on trying to be responsive to my own impatience) that he thought might help move my diagnosis closer to a resolution. Other doctors, who see more knee injuries in their medical specialty, believed that perhaps the MRI wasn’t necessary until after the orthopedic specialist had a chance to take a look.
In my case, the orthopedic specialist determined an MRI wasn’t necessary after all. His experience in working with knees like mine led him to conclude to a high degree of certainty what needed to be done next just by looking at my X-rays. I didn’t have to incur the cost of an MRI. I didn’t have to spend some time in deep meditation and prayer preparing myself to not jump out of that very narrow little tube and run screaming down the hall. Oh, and the best part is my knee did get better, which is the greatest good of all.
If you are a statistics guru, you might find this interesting. Johns Hopkins University recently surveyed American Medical Association physician members. With a response rate of 65%, the physicians concluded that 15-30% of medical tests are unnecessary.*
The moral of the story here is that many times achieving the greater good is a team effort, especially during major floods, certainly when your mother says it’s time to get those pesky wisdom teeth removed, and fortunately for all of us, when we have a health condition moving from diagnosis to treatment and finally to resolution.
*Source: Johns Hopkins study of 2,106 physician members of the AMA, published 9/6/17, PLOS ONE
Lora Felger is a community and broker liaison at Health Alliance. She is the mother of 2 terrific boys, a world traveler, and a major Iowa State Cyclones fan.
Can You Fry an Egg on a Sidewalk? (July 2019)
It's July, the hottest month of the year, so hot that you could fry an egg on a sidewalk!
Most of you have heard that saying and know that extreme heat I'm talking about. You know, when you run out to get your mail barefoot, your feet hit the concrete, and you are doing a quick, high-stepping dance all the way back to your front door or to that patch of grass to step on for quick relief? And has anyone ever tried to fry an egg on their sidewalk when the temperatures get so high?
I know I haven't, but I have often wondered.
The heat and humidity in July can be overwhelming, especially for older adults. Scorching temperatures can cause a body to overheat. When you begin to overheat, your brain sends a signal that prompts your body to release hormones that cause you to sweat, and when you sweat, you are actually cooling yourself down both on your skin's surface and internally.
As we get older, our bodies can become less efficient, and that cooling mechanism doesn't' work like it used to. There are many factors that can put us at risk for overheating, like decreased blood circulation, a salt-restricted diet, or even certain medications, such as heart and blood pressure drugs, tranquilizers, or sedatives.
The key is to know when your body is overheating. If you recognize certain symptoms, you can avoid heat exhaustion and even heat-related illnesses, like heat stroke. Symptoms of overheating can range from sudden dizziness, headache, and cramping to lack of coordination, fatigue, or swelling in your ankles.
Heat stroke may require emergency medical care and can have signs of high body temperature that goes over 104 degrees, confusion, acute change in behavior, fainting or staggering, and even lack of sweating and flushed skin. Know these signs, and seek medical attention if you have any doubt.
You can take steps to reduce your risk this summer by staying indoors and creating a cool environment when the weather gets too hot. Listen to the forecasts and get ready for the heat waves. Keep your home cool with fans or air conditioning. During the hottest hours, shut your blinds or draw your curtains to keep the sun's rays from getting in. Even taking a cool shower helps cool the body down.
Avoid exercising or working outdoors on hot days. If you need to go out, dress appropriately with light-colored clothing made from natural fabrics and bring along some water to stay hydrated. You also want to make sure to put on that sunscreen before you step outdoors. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
If you have older neighbors living alone, you may want to check on them during hot days, just to make sure they are staying cool.
And if your curiosity gets to you, on one of the hottest days of the year, grab an egg from the fridge on your way out the door and test it out. As for me, I think I will stick to frying eggs in my kitchen!
Mervet Adams is a community liaison with Health Alliance. She loves her grandson, family, nature, and fashion.
Who's in Your Circle? (June 2019)
With May being the month for Mother’s Day, it brings so many memories, and I think enough time has gone by that I can share a little about our experience now. Along with celebrating those still with us, it reminds us of those who are no longer with us and how we can continue to honor them and their memories.
One of my favorite and one of the most-rewarding things to do is to encourage people, whether it’s people who are sad from a loss, are dealing with an illness, or could just use an extra pick-me-up.
For the past few years, I have made encouragement baskets for a couple of my aunts who are breast cancer survivors. And I usually invite the one who lives locally to a breakfast for breast cancer survivors, caregivers, and friends, called Circle of Promise.
The Circle of Promise event is hosted by the Susan G. Komen Memorial, an organization to help end breast cancer. Circle of Promise is a movement designed to rewrite the story of African Americans and breast cancer by:
Motivating and empowering the community
Encouraging women to mobilize and get active in public policy efforts to improve access to care
Dispelling myths that prevent women from getting the needed care that can save their lives
Although breast cancer impacts people from all backgrounds, the Circle of Promise is important because there are significant differences in the mortality rates among various racial and ethnic groups. From 2001 to 2005, African American women had a 37 percent higher death rate than other women. That gave them the highest death rate and poorest survival rate of any racial or ethnic group for breast cancer.
While 90 percent of white women diagnosed with breast cancer survive for at least five years, only 77 percent of African American women survive for that long. There is also evidence that tumors are more aggressive among African American women. These are some of the key reasons that Susan G. Komen for the Cure has launched the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Circle of Promise campaign.
At this event, breast cancer survivors are celebrated and encouraged by family, friends, and the community. Each survivor is asked to stand according to the number of years (in ascending order) that they have been a survivor. They are given a loving applause by the audience. Additionally, they are given a special gift.
At the last breakfast, Health Alliance was one of the two sponsors of the survivor gifts. There was also a panel of healthcare professionals to answer audience questions about breast cancer.
Thanks to improvements in early detection and treatment, there are many more survivors of breast cancer than there were two decades ago. There are more than 2.5 million survivors in the U.S. today!
Two of my aunts are part of those surviving numbers. And thanks to the movement of the Circle of Promise, women with breast cancer have a local support. And others have a primary location to answer the movement’s call to action to eliminate breast cancer by taking control of their health and by helping other women do the same.
I am so proud to work for a company that supports great organizations and causes like the Susan G. Komen Memorial Circle of Promise.
Sherry Gordon-Harris is a community liaison at Health Alliance. She is a wife and mother of 2 boys and enjoys traveling, collecting dolls, and hosting princess parties and princess pageants.
What is a "Wakey Wake" Anyway? (May 2019)
With May being the month for Mother’s Day, it brings so many memories, and I think enough time has gone by that I can share a little about our experience now. Along with celebrating those still with us, it reminds us of those who are no longer with us and how we can continue to honor them and their memories.
My mother-in-law passed away on March 24, 2016, and we miss her. She pops up in our day in different ways. Smells, songs, movies, memories, foods. The flood of tears comes now and then, oftentimes when least expected. We think that is her reminding us to find joy in each moment. She was always good at that. She was the spark and light of my husband’s family, my “milly” (mother-in-law), and she was always a happy, funny (and at times, sarcastic) lady. She had beautiful eyes. The kind that smile at you when you look into them. Those are the best kind of eyes.
We miss her dearly. She got sick, and it was cancer. We were lucky, and the initial prognosis of 6 months to live turned into almost 4 years that we got with her.
My husband and I then embarked on the caregiver and advocate journey. Sometimes when things are new, they can feel like a maze, but in fact, if you partner with the right people, there are so many support systems out there to help you.
I am blessed to work for Health Alliance and knew the team to ask to find out what resources were available to her. The community outreach team and care coordination team helped point us in the right direction. Sometimes just having someone to talk with to know where to go is the starting point.
Your doctor’s office, health plan, and social workers can help you find resources when you need them. Health Alliance collaborates with many community resources to help you know where to turn and to share resources, like the United Way 2-1-1 or something similar depending on the area of need.
Now, back to what I was sharing about my mother-in-law. When we learned her time with us was nearing the end and our glimmer of hope for a cure changed to trying to create peace for her final days, we shifted the focus to doing things that kept her smiling as long as we could. We didn’t want to focus on the end being an end but instead focusing on what she wanted and what made her at peace with what was going on.
We started to talk about the food people serve at funerals. She was a foodie, so it was important to make sure the food would be what she wanted. While she was talking about it, she decided all the food sounded too good, so instead of planning a funeral, we decided to plan a “Wakey Wake!”
It was a celebration, sort of a wake while being awake. To us, it was our chance to say goodbye while she was with us instead of after she passed away. It was intimate, special, and exactly what she wanted. It left us all with a memory of her that was bright and cheery. People shared so many sweet words with her, and it lifted her up. We had it in late January, and she passed away in late March.
We didn’t have a full-fledged plan made in advance, but we moved quickly to make sure things were taken care of in a way that respected her wishes. It’s important to take that step so you can be in the moment when the time comes, and it doesn’t have to be a dreadful thing. Think about it like writing a story and figuring out how you want it to end.
That reminds me of my grandmother, who had a different plan. She was such a spunky, strong woman. She was a leader in her small town and an advocate of many things. She had her end-of-life arrangements all planned out with every detail outlined in her spiral notebook.
To some of our family, it seemed overwhelming to think about, but I tell you that there were no family fights, no arguments, and nothing to take the focus away from where it needed to be during a time of transition.
She had it all spelled out, all the way down to who was going to say what at the funeral, what songs she wanted played, and who the pallbearers would be. It was a true blessing to have that to reference and to know it was what she wanted. No guesses, no guilt, no asking ourselves if we are doing it right. It very much eased the stress that could come along with someone passing away.
It makes you really think about having that out of the way, already figured out so you can be present in each moment, celebrate each part of life, and choose what makes you happy at each phase.
Every phase is different for different people. If things change with your health and you would rather have a “Wakey Wake” instead of a funeral, then do it. If you would like your ashes to be in a tree urn so you can grow into a tree (that’s what I want), then do it.
I cannot thank a dear family friend enough for something she said to us at just the right time during our grief process. She taught us that there are no rights, no wrongs, and no sorrys in living and dying.
Pause and say that to yourself for a minute. Did you feel that? It takes so much pressure out of the grieving process. It’s OK to make decisions in the best interest of the living and the deceased in that moment. Do you have good intentions? Yes. Does it harm anyone? No. Then it’s OK. It’s also OK to talk about your wishes (and to get it documented somewhere).
Make sure you complete your Planning Ahead booklet from Health Alliance or refer to Five Wishes. You can also get similar copies from your doctor’s office, Health Alliance, your attorney or estate planner, and other community resources. The main point is to make sure you write down what you want to see happen if something happens.
Terra Mullins manages the community outreach team at Health Alliance. She is a wife and mother and has two really cute Mal-Shi pups! She loves nature and learning new things.
Don't Be Fooled This April (April 2019)
I grew up in a small household and was the baby in the family. I always loved to laugh and still do today. It’s one of my daily doses of medicine!
As a kid, I always liked April Fools’ Day. I would spend the night before thinking of how I could fool my older sister and parents.
One year, I screamed and got my family’s attention by saying there was a mouse in the kitchen. My sister stood on top of a chair at the kitchen table, and my mom went to get my dad to set the mouse trap. Once everyone was gathered, I said, “Do you know what day it is?” It took a minute or two, but when they saw the fooled-you-again grin on my face, they knew. April fools!
Every year, I would come up with something fun, and wouldn’t you know, my family would fall for it—every, single, time. The point was to get them to laugh, and of course for me, it was another successful first day of April for the books!
Little pranks are fun when you’re a kid, making your family laugh and being the clown of the family. But these days, we see pranks that aren’t so fun that target our senior population, and the point isn’t laughter, but rather to take advantage of them. These pranks are called senior scams, and April is prime time for scammers to come out and make their move.
One of the biggest scams every year is the IRS phone scam. With many people still filing their taxes in the final two weeks of tax season, we all should be on the alert. These scammers will use fake names and badge numbers, and they can even alter caller ID to make it look like the IRS is calling. As tax filing season draws to an end in April, these scammers will threaten police arrest or possibly make other threats to prey on the senior population.
Why are older citizens targeted?
Many seniors have some kind of “nest egg” they rely on, and this population is also known for having excellent credit. Also, people who grew up in the 1930s through the 1950s were generally raised to be polite. In other words, they may listen longer without cutting off conversations. This allows the scammer more conversation time to be convincing and possibly get their victim to fall for the scam.
Some general tips to remember are that government agencies do not perform their work over the phone. They also don’t use email, texting, or social media to reach out to consumers. If you’re approached by any of these means, report it. If you’ve been targeted by this scam, you can go to FTC.gov and use the Federal Trade Commission’s Complaint Assistant or call them at 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357).
Don’t get fooled this April. Get your dose of the last laugh as you stay focused on not being a target of senior scams.
Mervet Adams is a community liaison with Health Alliance. She loves her grandson, family, nature, and fashion.
Safety in the Details (March 2019)
Some people say I get into details too much. To some, paying attention to details is a strength. To others, it may be irritating. However, specific details make a difference, depending on the situation.
I remember an incident where a friend was going to meet me after I got off work. The friend called me to ask what time I was getting off work. I told them the time and asked them to meet me after work. Well, I assumed they knew where to meet me since we had met before at the same place.
Well, this person met me at the right time but at the wrong place. I was in front of my house. But they were in front of my workplace. The biggest issue is that I commuted to work about 40 miles away, so I had to sit and wait until they traveled back. Time, money, and patience were wasted all due to an assumption, lack of clarification, and lack of details.
Earlier this year, I gave a presentation on health advocacy to a Parkinson's disease support group. One of the points made is that it is important for patients to speak up to their healthcare provider. It is important to speak up about concerns, needs, and expectations. One of the things patients are encouraged to speak up about is their prescription medications. Questions to ask a provider during an appointment included 1) What will the medication you are prescribing do? 2) How do I take it? 3) What are the side effects?
There was a point made in the open discussion at this presentation on instructions about how often and when to take a particular prescription commonly used to treat Parkinson's disease. An instruction on the medication label said to take it four times a day. Being familiar with this medication, the person knew the instructions usually said to take four times a day during waking hours. The person inquired about it and found that those details had been omitted by the pharmacist. But the doctor's intent was for it to be taken during waking hours. This was an important detail for treating a Parkinson's patient.
I'm not sure what adverse effect may have happened if the medication had not been taken during waking hours. But any risk is too much of a risk to take when it concerns taking medication and your good health. Following the directions of prescription medication labels can help avoid the risk of having adverse reactions. It can also help the patient to gain the full intended benefit of the drug. It is also important to ask any clarifying detailed questions before taking medication.
Health Alliance wants you to be your best and to take charge of your health. When it comes to your health and wellness, don't be afraid to speak up and ask questions. There is safety in the details.
Sherry Gordon-Harris is a community liaison at Health Alliance. She is a wife and mother of 2 boys and enjoys traveling, collecting dolls, and hosting princess parties and princess pageants.
Sack Those Winter Blues,
Get Active at Winter Senior Games (February 2019)
When I was in high school, I had a crush on the hunky, curly-haired quarterback for the Iowa Hawkeyes, Chuck Long. Sigh, just saying his name takes me back to those days.
In my youth, sports of any kind ruled my world. Volleyball, softball, track and field, and basketball, I took a shot at all of them. I even earned a varsity letter for basketball in high school. I often say that the first thing God is going to let me do when I get to heaven is shoot the gap, slam through on the blind side, and sack the quarterback. But that quarterback will be someone I don’t like, like Tom Brady or Aaron Rogers, not Chuck.
Well, as it tends to happen, I grew up. I decided to become a Cyclone instead of a Hawkeye, got married, and raised a family. I stopped having crushes on college quarterbacks and started dreaming about minivans that could corner on a dime and the day my sons would stop taking swings at each other and just get in the car. Oh, and I went to work for Health Alliance, a company based in Champaign, IL, and full of Fighting Illini. Go figure. But I’ve always hung on to that love of sport. The body doesn’t always cooperate, but the heart is still alive and willing to give it a try.
February is a great month for all lovers of sport because Health Alliance is sponsoring the Winter Iowa Senior Games in the Quad Cities, and you are invited whether you’re an Illini, Hawkeye, Cyclone, or something else. You don’t need to be an Iowa resident to compete. In fact, competitors come from all over the United States. The only requirement is that you must be over 50 years old.
Still worried about the heart being more willing than the body? Don’t, everyone else is in the same boat because you compete with your own age group. Age groupings start at 50 and go up to over 90 years old. The playing field is even!
Registration is being taken for bowling, pickleball, swimming, table tennis, tennis and all track and field events. Events will take place throughout the Quad Cities, but most will happen at Augustana’s PepsiCo Arena in Rock Island. Yes, that is an indoor track.
Here is the best part. Chuck Long runs the Iowa Sports Foundation, the sponsoring agency of the Iowa Senior Games! Sometimes he even comes out to run the 800 meters in his age group. Making one’s heart go pitter patter is an aerobic exercise, don’t you know? Come out and have some fun and shake off those winter blues.
The Winter Iowa Senior Games will be held February 22–24 in the Quad Cities. Register for events at IowaSeniorGames.org or by calling 1-888-777-8881.
Reading this article too late for the Winter Games? The Eastern Iowa Senior Challenge happens in April in Cedar Rapids, and the Iowa Senior Games is later this summer in West Des Moines. Check the Iowa Senior Games website for all available events and dates.
Lora Felger is a community and broker liaison at Health Alliance. She is the mother of 2 terrific boys, a world traveler, and a major Iowa State Cyclones fan.
New Year's Reset (January 2019)
Happy New Year, everyone! Here is hoping that 2019 is your best year yet. Now, I am sure my readers are thinking my next line will be something about what my New Year's resolution is going to be. No, not this year.
I have a different take on 2019 that I would like to share. Resolutions make us obsess about outcomes. The outcomes are sometimes tied to successes, but they're also sometimes tied to failure. So this year, I am substituting the term "New Year's resolution" with "New Year's reset!"
It seems like every year, many of us find a way to ring in the new year, like watching the ball drop on "Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve" with the countdown "3-2-1, HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!" Or maybe we skip staying up all together because this whole New Year's Eve thing is overrated. Nevertheless, the next day, we close the book on last year, and just like that, we are on to a brand-new year and a brand-new start.
Starting that diet? Setting the goal for financial freedom? Both? These are the good old New Year's resolutions, the imagined future, where we all vow to make a change. Our minds are set and ready to move on to a better us! "This is the year that you are going to do it," we tell ourselves.
What I have learned over all the years is that my ready-set-go approach is good for maybe the first week or two (maybe the first month or two if I'm lucky). The adrenaline is high. I go out and buy all the organic fruits and veggies and local health food to fill the fridge. Then, I head out to the mall to find sweatpants and a matching headband, maybe even a new pair of shoes to walk and exercise away all those pounds (all on sale of course because I am trying to cut down on spending, too!). Now, it's all set, and I can't wait to start!
Next thing you know, good intentions are interrupted. In the mail, there's an invitation to the wedding event of the year (with of course, lots of food and drinks to be served), and no doubt, I have to find the perfect dress and accessories to wear to the big gala. Or maybe it's the annual Super Bowl party invite with more food and drinks (at least sweatpants are fine for this occasion). There go the resolutions, just like that! And here come the struggles and guilt with all kinds of mixed feelings! What about the diet and saving money? Why do I do this every year?
Why put yourself through that?
This year, wouldn't it be easier if we lived in the moment and not the imagined future? If each day, we took a short, mindful pause? Stop and reset? What is going on around you right this minute? You might see the most wonderful sunset or maybe kids sledding down a hill. Maybe you hear the humming sound of the fan or just that peaceful serenade of silence.
You don't have to worry about the entire year or even tomorrow, just be in the moment. Mindfulness is putting the attention on the present, and doing it purposefully. You aren't imagining it, you are living it! Go out for a walk or take that spare change to the bank. Make it intentional! It's that small space in time that you can slow down, replenish, and reset your mind and body.
In 2019, maybe we can all learn to hit the reset button and find how the power of taking just a few minutes of each day can lift your spirit, boost your mind, and achieve successes! Here's to a wonderful start for 2019!
Mervet Adams is a community liaison with Health Alliance. She loves her grandson, family, nature, and fashion.
