October 2020

E L D E R A F F A I R S . O R G

ELDERELDERUPDATEUPDATEOCTOBER 2020 NEWS BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE DEPARTMENT OF ELDER AFFAIRS VOL. 31, NO. 3

Safe MobilityGet Moving! ............................................................. 2AnnouncementsFlorida's New State Ombudsman ......................3Online Shopping With EBT Cards ......................3Fraud AwarenessStay Alert for COVID-19 Scams ..........................4Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones Against Medicare Fraud During COVID-19......................5SHINE - Medicare AdviceDear Judy: Your Questions Answered ...............6Medicare Open Enrollment  .............................. 7Coverage Choices During COVID-19 ...................8Now Is the Time: Login at MyMedicare.gov ......9

Americans with Disabilities ActCelebrating 30 Years of the ADA .....................10Falls PreventionYou Have the Power to Prevent Falls ............... 12Primary ElectionMake a Plan to Vote This Fall ..........................14Memory DisordersDITDOT: My Best Teacher ................................ 15Should I Be Concerned? .................................. 16Living with Change ........................................ 17Community SupportJacksonville’s New Town Community .............18Florida Supports Socially Isolated Elders and Caregivers .................................... 19

Florida VeteransVeterans’ Benefits Guide Available .................20Office of Financial RegulationWe’re Looking out for Floridians ..................... 21Alzheimer’s Awareness ..................24

A LOOK INSIDE

ELDERAFFAIRS.ORG

I hope this edi-tion of Elder

Update finds you safe and healthy. During the months since COVID-19 hit the United States, and specifi-cally Florida, we have experienced our share of social isolation – and the many challenges social isolation brings, as we find new and innova-tive ways to continue our lives while maintaining health and safety guide-lines put forth by our state and fed-eral agencies.

I’d like to acknowledge Governor DeSantis for his leadership during these unprecedented times. We know that COVID-19 has a disproportion-ate impact on older adults, and from day one he has been focused on reducing the exposure of this virus on that vulnerable population.

At the Florida Department of Elder Affairs, our mission remains to pro-mote the well-being, safety, and inde-pendence of Florida’s seniors, their families, and caregivers. We also make it a top priority to ensure Flori-da residents have accessibility to ser-vices and community-based support throughout the state.

Each extended program, each new initiative, and every interaction with our 11 Area Agencies on Aging and many, many local providers has had one driving force behind it: to meet the needs of Florida’s aging popula-tion until that day when, once again, we can experience those connections and relationships that bond us all and

Message From the SecretarySecretary Richard Prudom Florida Department of Elder Affairs

@ElderAffairs @ElderAffairs

D u r i ng t h i s unprecedented time, my focus has been, and

continues to be, to protect the most vulnerable. To that end, I recently announced the launch of a new sur-vey tool, designed specifically to help protect older Floridians, and to help us further our efforts to mitigate the spread of this disease and bring another layer of protection to those most at risk of severe symptoms from COVID-19.

The Florida Safe Survey CV19 Check Up is a free resource avail-able through the Florida Department of Elder Affairs at floridasafesur-vey.com. The release of this survey allows us to unite in the fight against COVID-19.

The survey remains anonymous and takes only a few minutes to com-plete. When you finish the survey, you receive a Safe Behavior Report that offers customized recommen-dations, and guides you to different local, state, and national resources based on your answers to geographic location, lifestyle, and personal expe-riences. It covers such important top-ics as health risk awareness, possible new or unmet needs, and mental health.

First Lady Casey DeSantis has made mental health a priority for all Flo-ridians, and she has been pleased to lend her support to this impor-tant new opportunity. Together, we encourage you to take the time and answer the online questionnaire to

Governor Ron DeSantis

FEATURE MORE ON PAGE 13

Continued on page 13 Continued on page 13

OCTOBER 2020Elder Update2

ELDER UPDATEELDER UPDATE(USPS 403-710/ISSN 1060-4545)Elder Update is a bimonthly publication mailed in state to Florida residents at no cost to recipients. Out of state, Elder Update may be accessed at elderaffairs.org.Ron DeSantisGovernorRichard PrudomSecretaryRebecca RobertsCommunications DirectorMackenzie LittleEditor-in-ChiefLiz JamesonEditorHaven CaponeLayout Editor & Graphic DesignElder Update welcomes submissions from readers. However, due to the volume of submissions, acknowledgements cannot be mailed. Articles selected for publication must provide accurate information to Florida’s elders about aging-related programs and services and complement the Department’s mission. The editor reserves the right to edit submitted material.Department of Elder Affairs4040 Esplanade WayTallahassee, Florida 32399-7000Phone: 850-414-2000TDD: 850-414-2001POSTMASTER: Send address changes to:Elder UpdateDepartment of Elder Affairs4040 Esplanade WayTallahassee, Florida 32399-7000Periodicals postage paid at Tallahassee, Florida, and additional offices.In accordance with United States Postal Service regulations, the Florida Department of Elder Affairs publishes and distributes five regular issues and one special edition of Elder Update each year. To view Elder Update’s 2019 Statement of Ownership form, please email your request to information@ elderaffairs.org or call 850-414-2000.

Gail M. HolleyFlorida Department of Transportation

Our new normal means spending more time at home. But that does not mean you can’t stay active while following physical distancing guidelines. If you are able and feel comfortable going outside, take advantage of the fresh air and consider going on a walk or bike ride. It can help improve your health and boost your mood while allowing you to practice active mobility, which means using physi-cal activity to get around.

A walk with household members allows you to exercise, socialize, and get outdoors all at once. Remember to prac-tice safe walking habits:

• Obey all state and local traffic laws• Always use crosswalks• Wear clothing that keeps you visible

If you take your wheels for a spin, whether on a trail, in the roadway or on a sidewalk, practice these safe biking habits for each ride:

• Always wear your helmet• Stay alert to drivers and people walking• Ensure that your tires have air, brakes are working,

and chain is secure• It’s also a good idea to use sunblock, bring along

water, and pack an umbrella, just in case.

As you incorporate biking and walking into your life, think about how you can use these modes as ways to improve your mobility. Take note of places near-by that are within walking or biking distance, such as a family member’s home, your local library, a nice park, or stores. Need help getting started? Safe Mobil-ity for Life can help you take control of your transpor-tation future right from your own home with our free resources, including a Bicycling Booklet with more tips for safe cycling. There are three ways you can request materials directly to your mailbox; online at safemobilityfl.com/resourcecenter.htm, via email at contact@safemobilityfl.com, or call us at 1-833-930-2952.

Whether you are walking or biking, making physical activity a regular part of your life and transportation plan can improve your health and help you support your inde-pendence as you age.

Get Moving! Using Active Mobility to Stay Safe, Mobile, and Independent

OCTOBER 2020Elder Update 3ANNOUNCEMENTS

Thanks for Your SupportElder Update staff is deeply gratified by the many generous donations given recently by our readers. Your generosity and kindness are truly appreciated, and your donations will be used to ensure the continued production of Elder Update.

Recent Contributors:• Susan Posey• Annie Flynn• Irene Neese

If you would like to make a contribution to the Elder Update, send a check or money order to:

Elder UpdateDepartment of Elder Affairs4040 Esplanade WayTallahassee, FL 32399-7000

Michael PhillipsState OmbudsmanFlorida Deportment of Elder Affairs

I’m truly grateful to Secretary Prudom for appoint-ing me as the new State Ombudsman for Florida’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program. It’s been my joy to work in the program for the past 14 years, and now to serve as its leader is indeed an honor and privilege.

Some of you are already familiar with the Ombudsman Program and have reached out to us for assistance, but too often I speak to people who are surprised to hear that such an organization as ours exists to exclusively address the needs of resi-dents of long-term care facilities.

Every state in the Union is required to have an Ombudsman Program under federal law, and I would like you to read not only why the Florida Legislature saw the need for our program, but also how it should be structured.

Chapter 400.0061, Florida Statutes(1) The Legislature finds that conditions in long-term care facilities in this state are such that the rights, health, safety, and welfare of residents are not fully ensured by rules of the Department of Elderly Affairs or the Agency for Health Care Administration or by the good faith of owners or operators of long-term care facilities. Furthermore, there is a need for a formal mechanism whereby a long-term care facility resident, a representative of a long-term care facility resident, or any other concerned citizen may make a complaint against the facility or its employees or against other per-sons who are in a position to restrict, interfere with, or threaten the rights, health, safety, or welfare of a long-term care facility resident. The Legislature finds that concerned citizens are often more effec-tive advocates for the rights of others than govern-mental agencies.

The statute continues:

(2) It is the intent of the Legislature, therefore, to use voluntary citizen ombudsman councils under the leadership of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman and, through them, to operate a state

ombudsman program, which shall, without inter-ference by any executive agency, undertake to dis-cover, investigate, and determine the presence of conditions or individuals that constitute a threat to the rights, health, safety, or welfare of the residents of long-term care facilities.

Three things I would like you to know:

One, we exist exclusively to address the rights, health, safety, or welfare of residents of long-term care residents.

Two, we are beholden to no one except the resident. Everything we do in our advocacy is resident cen-tered and resident directed, and

Three, we do this with volunteers.

These volunteers are some of the most amazing Floridians you will hope to meet. Last year these nearly 300 volunteers donated roughly 38,000 hours investigating 4,653 cases, conducting almost 9,000 facility assessments and visits, provided 13,000 consultations, and traveled nearly 280,000 miles while saving the state nearly $1,000,000 for their services.

Who are these people? The demographics reveal the average age is 70.2 years of age, and 80 percent are over 65. They come from all different back-grounds, professions, and walks of life. But who are they really? They are some of the most loving and caring people I have ever met – steeped in compassion and who want nothing for themselves other than to experience the joy of helping resi-dents retain their rights, health, and dignity while living in a long-term-care facility.

Does that describe you? We could really use your help, as we are desperately in need of volunteers. Let me invite you to check out our web page at ombudsman.myflorida.com/Volunteer.php.

For those of you who need or know of someone who could use our help during these difficult times, please give us a call at 1-888-831-0404, and let some of our amazing folks led a hand.

Introducing Michael Phillips - Florida's New State Ombudsman

Online Shopping With EBT Cards Deanna DanielsDepartment of Elder Affairs

The Coronavirus has changed the way many of us shop. The need to avoid crowds and obey stay-at-home orders has caused many people to move to online shopping for essential items, such as groceries. But where does that leave people who rely on SNAP benefits to purchase groceries?

On April 21, 2020, both Walmart and Amazon began offering online grocery shopping with an EBT card. The use of EBT cards for the pur-chase of groceries is restricted to approved gro-cery items only and cannot be used for delivery fees; however, it does give consumers a conve-nient way to shop without physically going into the store. Walmart offers curbside pickup, and, most of the time, shipping is free for Amazon customers. To get more information about plac-ing an online order using your EBT card, visit myflfamilies.com/covid19/accessPurchasing-FAQs.shtml, or for assistance over the phone, please call Deanna Daniels at 850-414-2088.

OCTOBER 2020Elder Update4 CONSUMER AWARENESS

It’s hard enough for all of us during this COVID-19 “new normal life-style”; however, we now must also deal with COVID-19 scams! Unbe-lievable, yet a sad and frustrating fact of life, especially for older adults.

According to a SeniorLiving.org article published in April 2020, scammers tend to target and take advantage of older adults with a vari-ety of schemes. Some reasons for tar-geting older adults include their ten-dency to trust others, higher financial savings, home ownership, good cred-it, and loneliness, etc.

Each year, millions of older adults fall victim to some type of financial fraud. Scammers will gain their trust and may communicate with them directly via computer, telephone, and the mail; or indirectly through TV and radio according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Unfor-tunately, these scams often work.

So, it didn’t take scammers long to begin trying to capitalize on confu-sion and fear over the new coronavi-rus. Federal, state, and local officials across the country have alerted con-sumers, particularly older adults, to be aware of several fraud schemes tied to the virus. Here’s a look at the major schemes that have been identi-fied as of May 1, 2020:

VaccineA phone- and social media-based scam targets people by pretending to be from medical organizations, such as hospitals or the CDC, claiming to have a dose of COVID-19 vaccine ready for the target of the scam. The scammer generally then seeks an over-the-phone payment.

No vaccine has been developed to prevent COVID-19.

CharitiesCharity scams are common regard-less of what’s happening in the news, but fraudsters follow the headlines, and coronavirus is a prime way for them to claim they’re gathering donations for families that have been affected by the virus or the economic fallout.

Research any potential charity, and never give donations through cash or gift cards or by wiring money.

NewsThe coronavirus crisis is rapidly evolving, and many people are eager to make sure they have the most up-to-date information. But it’s still important to avoid expos-ing your devices to harm, such as malware and viruses. For instance, an email scam uses the logo of the World Health Organization to lure users into clicking on a button that unleashes malware, and another uses a mimic of the popular Johns Hop-kins University coronavirus map to install spyware that can steal pass-words, credit card numbers, and other data stored within the web browser.

Closely analyze any URL that you click on to be sure it’s connected to the source; in the case of the fake map, instead of routing to a Johns Hopkins-affiliated site, the fraudsters point to "Corona-Virus-Map.com."

ServicesA tactic like the vaccine scam, many fraudsters call or email posing as professional cleaners or similar ser-vice providers, offering to sanitize homes or businesses. While there

are businesses that specialize in this service, they are not engaged in ran-domly calling potential customers out of the blue.

Reputable businesses don’t engage in hard sells or pressure tactics, par-ticularly if they claim to want to help during this difficult time.

CuresThough not a scam in the same way that scammers use email to tar-get people, many businesses have attempted to sell their existing prod-ucts as treatments or even cures for COVID-19 or coronavirus. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have issued warnings against at least seven companies that the agencies say have been misbranding products as treatments or preven-tives against coronavirus. Products include teas, essential oils, and col-loidal silver.

No vaccines exist, and no drugs are currently available that can prevent or treat coronavirus itself.

Many schemes against seniors are performed over email, the phone, and even through door-to-door advertising. They may take the form of alleged credit card offers, charity donation requests, home improve-ment offers, investment opportu-nities, banking and wire transfers, insurance offers, health products, and sweepstakes and contests, to name a few.

A lot of times, these scams go unre-ported or are hard to prosecute. Of course, they can be catastrophic to senior victims, especially those in vulnerable situations. For example, wealthy seniors are not the only

ones at risk of financial abuse. Low-income elderly individuals are also very much subject to being targeted, and it’s not always strangers who commit these crimes. You may be surprised to learn that more than 90 percent of all reported elder abuse is perpetrated by a senior’s very own family members.

How to Report If you believe you or someone you know may have been a victim of elder fraud, contact your local law enforcement agency, local FBI field office, or submit a tip online. You can also file a complaint with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.

When reporting a scam—regardless of dollar amount—include as many of the following details as possible:

• Names of the scammer and/or company;

• Dates of contact;

• Methods of communication: phone numbers, email addresses, mailing addresses, and websites used by the perpetrator;

• Methods of payment: where you sent funds, including wire transfers and prepaid cards (pro-vide financial institution names, account names, and account num-bers); and

• Descriptions of your interactions with the scammer and the instruc-tions you were given.

You are also encouraged to keep orig-inal documentation, emails, faxes, and logs of all communications.

Sources: seniorliving.org and fbi.gov

Stay Alert for COVID-19 Scams Office of Inspector GeneralFlorida Deportment of Elder Affairs

OCTOBER 2020Elder Update 5MEDICARE FRAUD

Anne Chansler Director of Elder Protection, SHINE ProgramFlorida Department of Elder Affairs

The Florida Department of Elder Affairs’ (DOEA) Serving Health Insurance Needs of the Elderly (SHINE) Program has received multiple reports of Medicare phone scams involving Durable Medical Equipment (DME). The Social Security Act prohibits suppliers of DME from making unsolicited telephone calls to people on Medicare. The reports indicate people have not only received unwanted sales calls, but other people have received unor-dered supplies including back braces. One case involves a person receiving 20 different items from five different companies.

People on Medicare should be aware that DME sent by a supplier needs to be prescribed by their doctor. According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), fraud-ulent telemarketing and DME supplies contrib-ute to the estimated $60 billion in fraudulent Medicare payments each year.

There are several ways to help put a stop to unsolicited calls and unordered supplies. If you receive a call that pressures you to buy medi-cal equipment you don’t want or need, simply hang up. If you receive items in the mail you didn’t order, refuse the delivery or send them back and report it to your local SHINE Senior Medicare Patrol Office at 1-800-963-5337. With your help, we can stop Medicare fraud one case at a time.

To receive help from SHINE, please arrange to speak with a trained SHINE counselor at 1-800-96-ELDER (1-800-963-5337). For a list-ing of SHINE counseling sites and enrollment events, please visit floridashine.org.

Anne Chansler Director of Elder Protection, SHINE ProgramFlorida Department of Elder Affairs

The SHINE Program provides guidance on how to protect yourself against Medicare fraud as the state responds to COVID-19. It is important to be vigilant about protecting your personal information.

Keep this list in mind to help prevent Medicare fraud:

• DO protect your Medicare number and treat your Medicare card like it's a credit card.

• DO review your Medicare claims for errors and problems, including things like fake charges, double billing or other fraudulent activity, waste, or abuse.

• DO visit medicare.gov/fraud to learn more about how you can protect yourself from Medi-care fraud.

• DON’T give your Medicare card or Medicare number to anyone except your doctor or people you know should have it.

Other Ways Medicare Is HelpingEvery day, Medicare is responsible for develop-ing and enforcing the essential health and safety requirements that healthcare providers must meet. When you go to a healthcare provider, you expect a certain standard of care, and we work to make sure you get it. That includes taking the following additional steps in response to coronavirus:

• Establishing new codes to allow providers to correctly bill for services related to diagnosis and treatment of the illness.

• Instructing our national network of State Sur-vey Agencies and Accrediting Organizations to focus all their efforts on infection prevention and other cases of abuse and neglect in nursing homes and hospitals.

• Instructing nursing homes and hospitals to review their infection-control procedures, which they're required to maintain at all times.

• Issuing important guidance answering ques-tions that nursing homes may have with respect to addressing cases of COVID-19.

Reporting Medicare Fraud If you think you may have spotted fraud, you should report it right away. No matter how mini-mal the information you share is, it could be the missing piece to stopping the next fraud scheme. If you are a victim of fraud, know that you won’t be penalized or lose your coverage for reporting it. Even if you are not a victim, it’s important to report any fraud scams you encounter to Medi-care. Report suspected fraud by calling 1-800-96-ELDER or visit floridashine.org and click on the Contact Us tab at the top of the page.

Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones Against Medicare Fraud During COVID-19

Durable Medical Equipment Fraud Scams Are on the Rise

OCTOBER 2020Elder Update6

OPEN ENROLLMENTDear Judy,What is Medicare Open Enrollment?

Thank you, Julie

Dear Julie,Each year you can make changes to your Medicare Advantage or Medi-care prescription drug coverage for the following year during the Open Enrollment Period which is October 15 – December 7. During this period, you may do the following:

• Change from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan,

• Change from a Medicare Advan-tage Plan back to Original Medicare,

• Switch from one Medicare Advantage Plan to another Medi-care Advantage Plan,

• Switch from a Medicare Advan-tage Plan that doesn’t offer drug coverage to a Medicare Advan-tage Plan that offers drug coverage,

• Switch from a Medicare Advan-tage Plan that offers drug cover-age to a Medicare Advantage Plan that doesn’t offer drug coverage,

• Join a Medicare Prescription Drug Plan,

• Switch from one Medicare Drug Plan to another Medicare Drug Plan, and

• Drop your Medicare Prescription Drug coverage completely.

Even if you are happy with your cur-rent plan, it is always wise to check your coverage during the Open Enrollment Period. The Medicare Advantage and Medicare Prescrip-tion Plans are one-year contracts and could change for the next year.

TELEHEALTHDear Judy,My doctor is offering Telehealth ser-vices instead of an office visit. Will Medicare pay for these services?

Thank you, James

Dear James,Medicare has temporarily expanded its coverage of Telehealth services to respond to the current health emer-gency. These services expand the current Telehealth covered services. You can have access from more plac-es, with a wider range of communi-cation tools (including smartphones), to interact with a range of provid-ers (like doctors, nurse practitioners, physical therapists, licensed social workers, and speech pathologists).

During this time, you will be able to receive a specific set of services through telehealth including evalua-tion and management visits (common office visits), mental health counsel-ing, and preventative health screen-ings without a copayment if you have

Original Medicare. This will ensure that you are able to visit with your doctor from your home without hav-ing to go to a doctor’s office or hos-pital, which puts you and others at risk for exposure to COVID-19. If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, please consult with your plan about their Telehealth services.

SHINE

SHINE provides free, unbiased health insurance counseling and information to elders and their caregivers. Through a statewide network of trained SHINE counselors, individuals with Medicare-related questions and issues can receive personal and confidential assistance. Through the SHINE/SMP (Senior Medicare Patrol) Program, SHINE counselors support the SMP mission to empower and assist Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers to prevent, detect, and report health care fraud, errors, and abuse through outreach, counseling, and education. For more information, you may visit our website at FLORIDASHINE.ORG.

Your Questions Answered by a SHINE Counselor

DEAR JUDY:

JUDY ARCHEY is the Area Coordinator for Putnam, Ala-chua, Bradford, and Union counties. She also serves as a statewide trainer for the Department of Elder Affairs’ SHINE Program.

If you have a question you would like answered in our new Dear Judy column, please send an email to information@elder-affairs.org. You may also send a question by regular mail to:

Elder Update: Dear JudyFlorida Departmentof Elder Affairs4040 Esplanade WayTallahassee, FL 32399-7000

OCTOBER 2020Elder Update 7 SHINE

Medicare Options Available During Open Enrollment Anne Chansler Director of Elder Protection, SHINE ProgramFlorida Department of Elder Affairs

Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period occurs each year from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7. This period pro-vides a window of opportunity for making changes in a beneficiary’s current Medicare coverage.

“Annual Notice of Change” letters are sent near the end of September from plans, describing any changes in benefits, premiums, networks, or ser-vice areas. It is very important to read through these changes, as they may greatly affect a ben-eficiary’s health or drug costs for the coming year. During Open Enrollment, beneficiaries should evaluate their coverage and make plan adjustments to better meet their needs. Any changes made dur-ing Open Enrollment are effective January 1.

Be aware of the options available to all Medicare beneficiaries during this period. Now is the time to review your current plan, and see if it meets your needs for 2021.

Stay in Original Medicare Those enrolled in Original Medicare have nation-wide coverage for inpatient (Part A) and outpatient (Part B) services. Through private insurers, ben-eficiaries may also enroll in prescription drug cov-erage (Part D) as well as a Medicare Supplement Plan (Medigap) which bridges the cost gaps asso-ciated with Original Medicare. Those cost gaps include copays, co-insurance, deductibles, Part B excess charges for non-assignment claims, as well as health coverage while on foreign travel. Many beneficiaries find their current coverage is suffi-cient. If that is your case, you do not need to do anything during Open Enrollment.

Add or Change Medicare Prescription Drug Plans For various reasons, some beneficiaries did not elect drug coverage when they first enrolled in Original Medicare. If you find yourself needing to

add drug coverage, Open Enrollment is the time to enroll in a Part D plan. However, keep in mind that if you have been without drug coverage for more than a couple of months, a late enrollment penalty may be added to the plan premium. These penal-ties can add up quickly; if you have not enrolled in Part D, do not delay any longer.

If you currently have drug coverage, you also need to take a good look at your plan. Your prescrip-tions will change periodically. Plan formularies also change, and all too quickly, beneficiaries find themselves in the coverage gap, also known as the “doughnut hole.” While in the gap, a benefi-ciary will pay 100 percent out of pocket for pre-scription drug costs. Some enhanced drug plans offer some coverage even during the coverage gap. During Open Enrollment, beneficiaries may shop for drug plans that better suit their needs.

Switch From Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) Another Medicare option that includes medical care and can provide prescription drug cover-age is a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C), also known as Medicare Health Plans. These plans are also offered by private insurers and must include everything Parts A and B cover. However, while Original Medicare offers nationwide coverage, Advantage plans are more restricted by regions and networks of providers.

Before committing to a Part C plan, beneficiaries should always ask three important questions:

• Does my doctor accept the plan?

• Are all my drugs covered?

• Am I covered if I travel outside the area?

Despite the restrictions, Advantage plans are very attractive to many beneficiaries because many have relatively low annual premiums. Some are offered premium-free. Although anyone enrolled in an Advantage plan still pays the Part B premium, some plans reimburse all or part of this expense.

Return to Original Medicare From an Advantage plan (Part C) 

“Inexpensive” insurance is no bargain if it fails to protect against very high health costs. During Open Enrollment, a beneficiary enrolled in a Part C plan may switch back to Original Medicare with a stand-alone Part D plan.

If you have questions or need more information about your Medicare options, call 1-800-963-5337 and ask for a SHINE counselor. You may also contact SHINE on its website at floridashine.org/Contact-Us.aspx.

OCTOBER 2020Elder Update8 SHINE

Anne Chansler Director of Elder Protection, SHINE ProgramFlorida Department of Elder Affairs

Are you an older adult who may have been laid-off or furloughed due to COVID-19? It’s important for seniors to make appropriate choices when deter-mining how to continue health care benefits if they become unemployed. SHINE counselors can pro-vide valuable information from the Social Security Administration (SSA) and the Department of Labor. If a person is recently unemployed, they may be questioning whether to start Medicare benefits or choose their employer’s COBRA coverage. The final decision is up to the individual, but SHINE counselors can certainly help. Below is some infor-mation and resources available to assist you with your decision.

Medicare Part B InformationIf you have Medicare Part A and need to add a Part B, the SSA office has developed a new method of enrollment for beneficiaries due to the closure of some offices for in-person visits.

Medicare beneficiaries may now fax their Medi-care Part B forms, CMS-40B and CMS L564- Request for Employment Information, along with proof of employment, Group Health Plan (GHP), or Large Group Health Plan (LGHP) to 1-833-914-2016. To mail the forms, search the Social Secu-rity Office Locator for your local Social Security office address. For the latest updates from SSA, visit Social Security & Coronavirus or copy this URL into your browser’s search engine: ssa.gov/coronavirus.

Special Enrollment in Another Group Health PlanThe Department of Labor suggests considering other group health coverage if available, such as a group health plan offered through your spouse's employer by requesting a special enrollment period.

Special enrollment periods offer an opportunity to enroll in a plan outside of the plan's open enroll-ment period. To qualify, you must request enroll-ment within a specified number of days after losing eligibility for the former coverage. These deadlines have been extended during the COVID-19 out-break. This type of coverage might be less expen-sive than other options because the employer often pays a part of the premium.

COBRA Continuation CoverageIf you are losing coverage through an employer that continues to offer a group health plan, you may want to consider electing COBRA continuation coverage. However, if you are Medicare-eligible and enroll in COBRA but have not enrolled in Medicare, you may incur unexpected out-of-pocket costs for benefits paid under COBRA, as well as penalties for late enrollment in Medicare once you enroll. For more information on Medicare, visit: medicare.gov/medicare-and-you.

COBRA allows you and your family to continue the same group health coverage at group rates, but your cost may be higher if your employer is no lon-ger paying a portion of your premium. COBRA normally has eligibility timelines following sepa-ration from an employer, but deadlines have been extended during the COVID-19 outbreak. Cover-age typically lasts 18 months but may last longer in certain circumstances. For more information on COBRA, you can review An Employee’s Guide to Health Benefits under COBRA or copy these words into your browser’s search engine to find this document.

If you have questions and would like to speak with a local SHINE counselor, please call the Elder Helpline toll-free at 1-800-96-ELDER (1-800-963-5337). If you have internet access, you may visit our website at www.floridashine.org for more information on SHINE counseling in your area.

Coverage Choices Available to Seniors Following Employment Loss During COVID-19

OCTOBER 2020Elder Update 9 SHINE

Mary SpinelliSHINE ProgramFlorida Department of Elder Affairs

With the Medicare Open Enrollment Period (OEP) beginning October 15, now would be a great time for you to create a MyMedicare.gov account, if you have not done so already. Dur-ing OEP, SHINE volunteers will be available to assist you with navigat-ing your changing Medicare needs. By having your MyMedicare.gov account set up prior to OEP, this will allow your SHINE counselor to pro-vide you with faster assistance.

A few benefits of creating a MyMedi-care.gov account are as follows:

• See drug prices based on any help you get

• Compare your current plan to others

• Access & store your drug list for future use

To create an account, go to MyMedi-care.gov and select the “Log In/Cre-ate Account” icon. Have the following

information ready (for yourself or the person you’re helping):

• Medicare Number • Last name• Date of birth• Current address with ZIP code

or city• Part A or Part B coverage start

date

You can find this information on your Medicare card. If you’re new to Medi-care and don’t have your Medicare card yet, you can get your Medicare number on the letter you get from Social Security after you enroll.

To receive assistance from SHINE while setting up your MyMedicare.gov account, please arrange to speak with a trained SHINE counselor at 1-800-96-ELDER (1-800-963-5337). For a listing of SHINE counseling sites and enrollment events, visit floridashine.org.

SUDOKUThere is only one valid solution to each Sudoku puzzle. When you start a game of Sudoku, some blocks will be pre-filled for you. You cannot change these numbers in the course of the game. Each column must contain all of the numbers 1 through 9, and no two numbers in the same column of a Sudoku puzzle can be the same. Each row must contain all of the numbers 1 through 9, and no two numbers in the same row of a Sudoku puzzle can be the same. Each block must contain all of the numbers 1 through 9, and no two numbers in the same block of a Sudoku puzzle can be the same. Good luck!

Solution found on page 22. Source: brainbashers.com

4 5 9 7 64 8

7 3 58 9 6 52 4 1 31 7 9 2

8 7 99 2

5 6 8 4 7

Now Is the Time to Login at MyMedicare.gov

OCTOBER 2020Elder Update10 AMERICAN DISABILITIES ACT

Jamie GillhespyAgency for Persons with Disabilities

Governor Ron DeSantis issued a proclamation declaring July 24th

“Americans with Disabilities Act Awareness Day” to commemorate the 30th Anniversary of the federal bill in July.

The ADA was signed into law 30 years ago and has made a tremen-dous impact on the lives of individu-als with disabilities. The ADA is an important civil rights act designed to ensure that people with disabilities enjoy the same freedoms as everyone else. President George H. W. Bush signed the ADA into law on July 26, 1990. Since then, the ADA has had a tremendous impact on American life and culture.

To commemorate Americans with Disabilities Act Awareness Day, a virtual statewide celebration was held with self-advocates, state and community leaders, and disabil-ity organizations. Florida’s cel-ebration of the ADA was hosted by APD, RESPECT of Florida, ABLE United, Able Trust, Florida Asso-ciation of Centers for Independent Living, Ability 1st, Blind Services, Vocational Rehabilitation, Florida Association of Rehabilitation Facili-ties, and many other stakeholders. The celebration included a welcome message from Governor DeSantis, which may be viewed here for online readers or at the following link: you-tube.com/watch?v=DqwNpKMFoLw&feature=youtu.be.

Governor Ron DeSantis said, “The ADA has removed barriers to allow individuals with disabilities the chance to achieve their goals. Flori-da is happy to be an accommodat-

ing state. Florida’s constitution, the ADA, and the laws of our state affirm equality and inclusion for people with unique abilities.”

Kazana McKenzie, a self-advocate with Pyramid Studios, opened the event by singing the National Anthem. Local and state leaders addressed the virtual gathering. The speakers included Governor DeSantis, Com-missioner of Agriculture and Con-sumer Services Nikki Fried, State Representative Loranne Ausley, Sec-retary of State Laurel Lee, Tallahassee Mayor Pro-Tem Dianne Williams-Cox, Leon Commission Chairman Bryan Desloge, EEOC Representative Elaine

McArthur, and ABLE United Execu-tive Director John Finch.

The three keynote speakers shared how the ADA has helped them achieve their goals. They were as follows:

• Whitney Harris, Comptroller for the Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology (FAAST)

• Shevie Barnes, Self-advocate and Ms. Wheelchair Florida 2018

• Peter O’Connell, Executive Direc-tor of the Center for Independent Living of South Florida

Agency for Persons with Disabilities Director Barbara Palmer said, “Amer-ica is a better place because of the ADA. This landmark legislation was critical to allow people to be a part of their communities. The ADA provides vital access to buildings, jobs, educa-tion, and the entire community for individuals with special abilities.”

“Thirty years ago, the Americans With Disabilities Act was signed into law, and since then we've made continued progress in opportunity, accessibility, and equity for people with disabilities," said Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services Nikki Fried. "As we recognize the achievements of Floridians with disabilities, may we

ADVOCATES AND DISABILITY ORGANIZATIONS WERE ENCOURAGED TO STROLL AROUND THEIR BLOCK WHILE SOCIALLY DISTANCING TO CELEBRATE THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ADA.

Celebrating 30 Years of the Americans with Disabilities Act

OCTOBER 2020Elder Update 11 AMERICAN DISABILITIES ACT

Mail this form to:Department of Elder AffairsElder Update 4040 Esplanade Way Tallahassee, Florida 32399-7000

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* If you are a current subscriber providing an updated address, please include your previous address in the comments box below.

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strengthen our commitment to the inclusion and support of those with diverse abilities in our workplaces and communities.”

State Representative Loranne Aus-ley said, “I am honored to be a part of this celebration marking 30 years since the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which marked a life-changing shift in accessibility for millions of Americans with dis-abilities and forced a shift in attitude for Americans without disabilities.”

“The Americans with Disabilities Act is commemorating 30 years of prog-ress in access and inclusion,” said Florida Secretary of State Laurel M. Lee. “The Florida Department of State is doing its part to ensure that persons with disabilities know their voting options, have equal access to voting, and have confidence that their vote is safe and secure.”

“The ADA has done so much for us as a disability community. It has given us access to things that we would not have without it. But we have so much further yet to go,” said Comptroller for the Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technol-ogy (FAAST) Whitney Harris.

“The City of Tallahassee is proud to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act,” City of Tallahassee Mayor Pro Tem Dianne Williams-Cox said. “By breaking down barriers to employ-ment and beyond, this landmark civil rights legislation enables our society to benefit from the skills and talents of individuals with disabilities.”

“Over the past 30 years, the Ameri-cans with Disabilities Act has sup-ported the rights of so many individ-

uals to live, learn, and earn to their fullest potential,” said Leon County Commission Chairman Bryan Des-loge. “While our work must continue, Leon County remains committed to ensuring individuals with disabilities have better access to local govern-ment programs and services and bet-ter opportunities for full and equal participation in civic and community life."

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Miami District Act-ing Director Bradley Anderson said,

“The EEOC Miami District recogniz-es and celebrates the many positive changes brought about by 30 years of the ADA. We will continue to use our resources to advise employ-ers and employees on their respec-tive ADA obligations and rights, and, where necessary, to take steps to enforce the statute. We are proud to play a crucial part in helping to achieve the ADA’s goal of eliminat-ing workplace discrimination against qualified people with disabilities—people who contribute greatly to their workplaces and our country.”

“The passage of the ADA also sparked conversations about the need to provide those with disabilities the opportunity to save,” said John Finch, Director of ABLE United, Florida’s disability savings program. “Now thousands of Floridians are saving for their futures without jeopardizing eli-gibility for current or future benefits.”

Join us in celebrating this historic anniversary by enjoying a recording of the full event by clicking here for those reading online or by copying this link into your browser: youtube.com /watch?v =V VA PMt rBB -c&feature=youtu.be.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10

OCTOBER 2020Elder Update12 FALLS PREVENTION

Mary HodgesFlorida Department of Elder Affairs

Falling is not a normal part of aging. There are many circumstances that contribute to falls in older adults. Identifying and understanding the leading factors associated with falls can reduce or elimi-nate the risks of falling.

According to the National Institute on Aging, Pre-vent Falls and Fractures, individuals may have per-sonal risk factors that lead to falls, such as muscle weakness, problems with balance or walking and postural hypotension. With postural hypotension, there is a drop in blood pressure when a person stands up from lying down or sitting. The drop in blood pressure can cause dizziness, confusion or fainting. Another risk factor is diabetic neuropathy which is nerve damage that can result from dia-betes. According to Mayo Clinic Healthy Living, with diabetic neuropathy, there is nerve damage to a person’s legs and feet, causing pain or numbness. Discomfort from pain, numbness and other prob-lems such as unsafe footwear, can also increase the risk of falling.

In connection with the establishment of a state uni-versity in Virginia in 1817, the third president of the United States, Thomas Jefferson wrote in a let-ter to historian, George Ticknor, “Knowledge is power, safety and happiness.”

Knowing your personal risk factors gives you the power to prevent falls, live safely in your environ-ment and happily maintain your independence.

This year during Falls Prevention Awareness Week (September 21-25), the National Council on Aging is introducing the Falls Free Check Up. The Falls Free Check Up consists of the twelve questions from the CDC STEADI Tool kit, Stay Independent Brochure. The Falls Free Check Up provides an online self-assessment of 12 questions with yes or no answers and explanations. A score of 4 or more indicates risk for falls.

Within 3 minutes of completing the assessment, the user will receive an email with a PDF of the Check

Up results that can be printed and shared with a health care provider and family. Fifteen minutes later, the user will receive an email letter with a personalized score, and information for the health care provider that explains Falls Free Check Up, links to community resources and video on falls prevention. Within three days of completing the assessment, the user will receive information for Benefits Check Up on how to save on paying for food, medication, etc. and explore resources on managing chronic diseases.

Online Falls Free Check Upncoa.org/healthy-aging/falls-prevention/falls-free-checkup

If you want to complete the assessment on paper, answer the 12 questions below from the Stay Inde-pendent Brochure and share the results with your health care provider.

YOU HAVE THE POWER TO PREVENT FALLS

Check Your Risk for FallingCheck Your Risk for Falling

Circle “Yes” or “No” for each statement below Why it matters

Yes (2) No (0) I have fallen in the past year. People who have fallen once are likely to fall again.

Yes (2) No (0) I use or have been advised to use a cane or walker to get around safely.

People who have been advised to use a cane or walker may already be more likely to fall.

Yes (1) No (0) Sometimes I feel unsteady when I am walking. Unsteadiness or needing support while walking are signs of poor balance.

Yes (1) No (0) I steady myself by holding onto furniture when walking at home.

This is also a sign of poor balance.

Yes (1) No (0) I am worried about falling. People who are worried about falling are more likely to fall.

Yes (1) No (0) I need to push with my hands to stand up from a chair.

This is a sign of weak leg muscles, a major reason for falling.

Yes (1) No (0) I have some trouble stepping up onto a curb. This is also a sign of weak leg muscles.

Yes (1) No (0) I often have to rush to the toilet. Rushing to the bathroom, especially at night, increases your chance of falling.

Yes (1) No (0) I have lost some feeling in my feet. Numbness in your feet can cause stumbles and lead to falls.

Yes (1) No (0) I take medicine that sometimes makes me feel light-headed or more tired than usual. chance of falling.

Yes (1) No (0) I take medicine to help me sleep or improve my mood.

These medicines can sometimes increase your chance of falling.

Yes (1) No (0) I often feel sad or depressed. Symptoms of depression, such as not feeling well or feeling slowed down, are linked to falls.

Total Add up the number of points for each “yes” answer. If you scored 4 points or more, you may be at risk for falling. Discuss this brochure with your doctor.

2011: 42(6)493-499). Adapted with permission of the authors.

FALLS PREVENTION AWARENESS WEEK | SEPTEMBER 21-25

OCTOBER 2020Elder Update 13SAFE SURVEY

START your survey, ASSESS your risk, FORM a plan, and EXAMINE your options.

Take the first step at floridasafesurvey.com

lift the physical, spiritual, and mental health of each individual, no matter what their age.

The Department of Elder Affairs and our strate-gic partners have worked diligently to launch ini-tiatives to protect the physical and mental health of Florida’s 5.5+ million older adults. In April, in affiliation with the Alzheimer’s Association, we launched Project: VITAL to keep seniors connect-ed with loved ones via touchscreen tablets from iN2L, which makes person-centered content eas-ily accessible in nursing homes and assisted-living facilities.

In partnership with Ageless Innovation, DOEA began delivering therapeutic robotic pets to social-ly isolated adults living with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementia (ADRD). To date, DOEA has delivered over 1,900 animatronic pets to older

adults throughout the state. The robotic pets offer an alternative to traditional pet therapy and have shown an immense impact on our older adults.

These initiatives, and others, have been successful and will continue to be so, especially for the many, many Long-Term Care (LTC) residents who have no family members to visit them, but for those lucky individuals who do have families that love them and want to see them, hug them, and be with them – these initiatives were always meant to help just a bit until that day when closer contact may be permissible, and that’s where we are today.

It has been my privilege to serve on the Governor’s Task Force on the Safe and Limited Re-Opening of Long-Term Care Facilities in Florida. In September, Governor DeSantis directed revisions to the origi-nal Executive Order to again allow some visitations

to residents of LTC facilities, within the boundar-ies of Task Force recommendations. I look forward to seeing more photographs of the happy reunions as they occur. And our task force will continue to review the step-by-step process of re-opening.

In closing, I’d like to reiterate the message from Governor DeSantis, to please visit FloridaSa-feSurvey.com and see how this online tool may assist you in navigating the challenges still present-ed by COVID-19. Governor Ron DeSantis and the Department of Elder Affairs launched the Florida SAFE Survey several weeks ago to allow anyone to get actionable and responsive feedback from the survey results of their COVID-19 behaviors. I encourage you to get your Safe Behavior Score today.

A MESSAGE FROM THE SECRETARY…CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

help you stay safer, healthier, and more secure dur-ing this pandemic.

The Florida Safe Survey provides respondents with links to useful, curated resources to address self-identified needs such as transportation, medication, food, social services, health care, finances, and other issues. Additionally, printable resources on state and local information complement the nation-al content the survey results provide to consumers.

The survey is offered to anyone and you may answer the questions as many times as you wish. Taking the survey more than once allows you to see how any changed behavior may affect your Safe Behavior Score. You may fill out the ques-tionnaire for yourself, a family member, a friend, or a neighbor. The online platform will generate a report that can be printed out or sent electronically to the other person.

By working with BellAge, Inc., DOEA ensured the Florida Safe Survey CV19 Check Up used a data-driven approach to develop this unique system to help older adults and other at-risk Floridians antici-pate and manage the new realities of life during COVID-19. The survey is available 24/7 on com-puters, tablets, and mobile devices.

The challenges presented to Floridians by COVID-19 have been great, but I know Floridians are resil-ient. I recently directed the state to begin allow-ing limited visitations for essential caregivers at long-term care facilities, to help reduce the effects of social isolation and safely reconnect residents with their loved ones. Know that I continue fight-ing for our seniors and we are here for you. Thank you and God bless!

GOVERNOR RON DESANTIS…continued from page 1

OCTOBER 2020Elder Update14 PLAN TO VOTE

Laurel M. Lee Florida Secretary of State

As the 2020 election approaches, the Florida Department of State wants to make sure that all eligible Floridians are registered and prepared to vote in the November 3, 2020, General Election. You can begin planning now to ensure your voice is heard on election day.

FIRST, YOU MUST BE REGISTERED TO VOTE. You can register to vote or update your voter reg-istration information at registertovoteflorida.gov, where you can submit your voter registration appli-cation online or print a paper application to sub-mit to your local Supervisor of Elections. Florida’s voter registration deadline for the November Gen-eral Election is October 5.

SECOND, MAKE A PLAN TO VOTE. All Florida voters have three options to vote:

• early voting, • vote-by-mail, or • voting at the polls on Election Day.

You can vote in person by voting early or at the polls on Election Day. Early voting for the General Election in Florida runs from October 24 through October 31. Please note, however, that your local Supervisors of Elections might offer additional early voting days, too. Contact your local Supervi-sor of Elections for dates, times, and locations in your county.

You can also vote in person at your polling place on Election Day, which is November 3. If you choose to vote in person, be assured that Florida’s elections officials are doing everything possible to keep you and your family healthy and your vote safe. Local election workers will be following pub-lic health guidance and working hard to keep poll-ing places safe and sanitary.

You can also choose to vote-by-mail from the con-venience of your home. In fact, you can ask your local Supervisor of Elections for a ballot right now. October 24 is the deadline to request a vote-by-

mail ballot be mailed to you for the 2020 Gener-al Election. Remember to fill out the ballot, sign the ballot envelope, and return your ballot to your Supervisor of Elections. The U.S. Mail is a safe and effective method to return your ballot; how-ever, remember, your local Supervisor of Elections must receive your completed ballot no later than 7 p.m. on November 3. If you’re concerned that your ballot won’t be delivered to your Supervisor of Elections in time, we recommend returning your vote-by-mail ballot to a designated secure drop box at one of your county’s early voting sites, or at your local Supervisor of Elections’ main and branch offices. You can also track the status of your vote-by-mail ballot, including when it is received and counted, through your local Supervisor of Elec-tions’ website.

Finally, if you need assistance, please do contact the State’s Voter Assistance Hotline at 1-866-308-6739. If you are hearing or speech impaired, please use the Florida Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1. You can also contact your local Supervisor of Elections for accessible voting options. The Florida Depart-ment of State’s goal—my goal—is to ensure the integrity of our elections and that all eligible voters have their voices heard. We look forward to count-ing your vote this fall!

Make a Plan to Vote This Fall

Important Dates• NOVEMBER 3, 2020 General Election

• OCTOBER 24 - OCTOBER 31 Early voting for the General Election in Florida

• OCTOBER 24 Deadline to request a vote-by-mail ballot

• NOVEMBER 3, 7 P.M. Your completed absentee ballot must be received by your Supervisor of Elections no later than 7 p.m. on November 3

FLORIDA VOTER ASSISTANCE HOTLINE:

1-866-308-6739

OCTOBER 2020Elder Update 15 MEMORY DISORDERS

Joy Barbee, RN, BSN, Certified Dementia PractitionerClinical Coordinator West Florida Hospital Memory Disorder Clinic

Early in my career I met a crusty, disheveled man accompanied by his wife. She had called me asking for help dealing with his bizarre behav-iors. His wife reported that he locks her out of their bedroom and tells her to “leave before his wife comes home.” He will not let her help him bathe or dress. She was sitting in a wheelchair, and he pushed her to get around. He drives the car and she navigates the car. She told me how he wanted to talk "nonsense."

"He does not know who I am and tells me to get out of our own home!" she said. His wife just couldn't under-stand how that man had forgotten her after 43 years of marriage. Maybe the reason I connected with the woman was that I too had been for-gotten as a daughter. My mother had Alzheimer’s disease years before.

I took him into a private room, and he said, “dotdotdotdot dot dot dot-dotdot dot.” I looked right at him and said,"Ditdot." He smiled and we became buds. Ditdot seemed to trust me. He made several attempts at con-versation in my world but to commu-nicate with Ditdot, I had to go into his world. Every time he tried to talk, it was a series of dits and dots that sounded very purposeful, but I did not understand. His puzzled facial expressions in response to my not understanding him were so heart-breaking. Something was definitely going on with him, so I had to talk with his wife.

She revealed he had been a Morse code operator during WWII aboard a submarine. They had met and mar-ried quickly before he went out to sea. Tearfully, she recalled how much in love they had been. Back in WWII communication was often every four-to-six months because he served in the Atlantic theater. She saved every letter he wrote, and he saved hers. I asked her whether she tried to com-municate in Morse code with him.

“No,” she said, with tears in her eyes. "I want a real conversation with him." I had read about how sometimes a dementia patient will revert back to a second language. Often it is the first language learned that the patient will go back to using. This gentleman was age 18 at the start of WWII and his career in the Navy. The nurse in me loves detective work. I went to my computer and pulled up Morse code and printed out a copy. It had been a long time since I learned about Morse code in Girl Scouts.

Using Morse code, I told Ditdot he was safe and I was a medic. A big smile of relief came over his face. I even got a hug. Ditdot then told me in plain English, "I don't know who that man is in the mirror. He follows me around the house all the time."

I had read about this behavior but never heard anyone describe it per-sonally. I asked Ditdot to show me what he looked like. He then pulled out an old, worn wallet from his pants. Slowly opening the tattered wallet, he showed me a picture of a sailor who was about 18 or 19 years old. He was dressed in that classic blue sailor uniform. He said, "That's me." Ditdot was a very handsome young man. Opposite his picture was

a picture of an absolutely gorgeous woman about the same age. Ditdot told me, "That's my wife, pointing to her picture. I don't know who that woman is out there, but when my wife gets home, she is going to whip her butt."

Wow! I still get chills thinking about that experience. He did not recog-nize his wife in present reality. He did not know his face in the mirror. However, he did point to a picture of a young 18-year-old sailor in the Navy, and he knew it was he him-self. He recognized with pride the picture of his young bride. Ditdot did not want “some woman” moving his wife’s things around and his wife reported him saying, “Leave her stuff alone!” even when she tried dusting the furniture.

I believe the most valuable service provided by our clinic was explain-ing to Ditdot’s wife how her hus-band did remember her; he wanted to honor those vows he made so long ago to her about love, faithfulness, honor, and cherishing till death. He could point to her picture and tell her how much he loved the wife in the picture. All three of us were in tears. This was a very special moment in

my nursing career and a bittersweet moment for his wife.

I talked at length with the wife over several months about the feelings evoked when an Alzheimer’s fam-ily member just walks by you like they have never met you. In truth, it hurts like nothing I can describe. Remember that in the AD person’s reality, they have not met the present day you. You may be called a differ-ent name. You may be named for the object you give to them. I was called the banana lady, not daughter, but that was the role my mother saw I provided. Oh yes, I have been called worse names in my nursing career. I had to learn how to adapt to this new role not of daughter but, rather, pro-vider of her favorite fruit.

It is you and I that have to change to whatever the new normal has become. Our lives don’t return to a

“pre-Alzheimer’s” life. We have to adjust to whatever they say reality is at this moment. In order to make these adjustments, it is so important to get involved in a support group. Learn new managing skills and learn what behaviors are normal for a per-son with AD.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

DITDOT: MY BEST TEACHER FROM AN ALZHEIMER’S VIEWPOINT

OCTOBER 2020Elder Update16 MEMORY DISORDERS

Gabriella Grau BA University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine

Our population is aging. The United States Census predicts that by 2030, one in five individuals will be of retirement age. It is normal to expe-rience some decline in memory and thinking abilities as you get older. Our cognitive abilities typically peak at around age 30 and gradually decline thereafter. However, not all memory problems can be dismissed as normal aging. A portion of the population will develop a clinically significant memory disorder, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, and the rates of this dis-ease are increasing along with our rapidly aging population. By 2030, it is estimated that 82 million Ameri-cans will suffer from this disease. Becoming more educated on the common symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, as well as better understand-ing the distinction between common aging issues and clinically significant decline is essential for those above the age of 65, as aging is one of the greatest risk factors for developing this disease.

What Are the Symptoms?Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by a gradual decline in memory and thinking, usually over the course of several years. Early symptoms include forgetfulness, confusion, misplacement of items, and get-ting lost. These symptoms gradu-ally worsen over time and eventually begin to interfere with activities of daily living, such as work, house-hold chores, hobbies, and socializing. As the disease progresses, memory problems worsen, and it becomes

more difficult to learn and retain new information.

Other thinking abilities, such as lan-guage and visuospatial skills, may also be affected as the disease pro-gresses. One might experience dif-ficulties coming up with the correct words to use in a sentence or have trouble communicating thoughts in a conversation. Older adults may find an increase in occurrences of not finding their car in a parking lot or getting lost in a familiar area.

Along with changes in thinking and functioning, Alzheimer’s disease often affects mood and behavior. Adults with Alzheimer’s disease may become more irritable, agitated, or depressed. Changes in personality or social presentation are also common. Some people may become more out-spoken or inappropriate in conversa-tions; whereas others become more withdrawn or apathetic.

When to Be ConcernedWhile some memory complaints are common among older adults (e.g., forgetting why you entered a room, what you were about to say, or the name of someone you don’t see very often), others are more concerning (e.g., forgetting a close friend’s name or a major event you attended recent-ly). It can be difficult for older adults to know which symptoms are nor-mal and which should be concerning. Before you start to worry, there are a few things to consider:

Has there been a change? When it comes to memory and other cog-nitive skills, we all have different strengths and weaknesses. Therefore, it is important to consider whether there has been a significant change

in your own abilities. For example, if you have always been the kind of person who must write things down in order to remember them, then relying on lists and reminders is less concerning than it might be for someone who has always been known for her superior memory. Similarly, if you have never been good with maps or directions, then it is not a surprise if you get lost occa-sionally when traveling to unfamiliar locations. On the other hand, if you were always great with directions, or if you are suddenly getting lost in familiar areas, these changes might warrant concern.

Are these problems affecting your everyday life? When problems with memory or thinking begin to inter-fere with your everyday activities, it is often a good sign that something is wrong. However, we sometimes miss these signs because we develop strategies to help compensate. For example, have you started carrying a notebook around so you can write everything down, or setting remind-ers on your phone so you don’t for-get to take medications? While these kinds of strategies are useful for peo-ple of all ages, they may be a sign of cognitive decline if you have never relied on such strategies before. Sim-ilarly, some people gradually adjust to cognitive changes by giving up their hobbies or passing off respon-sibilities to other people. If you are suddenly reassigning chores to other family members, defaulting to other people to calculate the tip at a restau-rant, or avoiding book club because you can no longer follow the plot of a book, your life is being affected. It is important to be honest with yourself if you start noticing these changes.

Have other people noticed a change? We are not always the best judges of our own abilities, especially when it comes to memory. You might not have noticed any changes in yourself, but maybe other people are telling you that you are repeating yourself in conversations or forgetting what they have told you. It is important to get feedback from other people, as they may be more likely to notice impor-tant changes.

What to Do if You Are ConcernedIf you are concerned about your memory or thinking, there are sev-eral actions you can take. First, it is important to talk to your primary care physician, who can make appro-priate treatment recommendations and refer you for a memory evalu-ation if needed. Memory evalua-tions can help detect early signs of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Additionally, you can significantly reduce the risk of cog-nitive decline by making lifestyle changes such as exercising, follow-ing a healthy diet, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol consumption, man-aging your heart health, and getting enough sleep.

Research OpportunitiesIf you are interested in contribut-ing to Alzheimer’s disease research, consider participating in one of our memory studies at the University of Miami’s Center for Cognitive Neu-roscience and Aging (CNSA). CNSA is currently recruiting adults 35 and older who are concerned about their memories, as well as healthy adults with no memory complaints. To learn more about our ongoing studies, please call (305) 355-9000.

Memory Problems in Older Age: Should I Be Concerned?

OCTOBER 2020Elder Update 17 MEMORY DISORDERS

Marc Agronin, MDChief Medical Officer MIND Institute at Miami Jewish Health

There is not a clinician among us from the memory disorder centers in our group who has not lost one of more patients to the COVID-19 scourge. I count four in the last two weeks alone. These were not just patients, but they were special mem-bers of our center and beloved indi-viduals to family and friends. They were not just patients who suffered from an ailment called Alzheimer’s disease, but they were vibrant, deter-mined people who were living with changes in their cognition. These neurocognitive changes limited them in some ways but didn’t define them. It is especially critical during this pandemic for all MDC staff to take note of how the very language we use to describe the people we work with can influence how we see them. Word that connote decline and decrepitude can leave us feeling sad and constrained, while words that connote life and hope can spur open-ness and creativity.

Several years ago, a woman named Angie came to our center seeking an evaluation for mild memory com-plaints. From our first meeting, it was clear to everyone she met that Angie was an energetic, intelligent woman who was once a devoted reading teacher. She loved opera, Spanish literature, and politics. Her husband was equally bright and eager to understand what was causing her cognitive changes. The evaluation revealed a one-year history of occa-sional memory lapses. Her neurologi-cal exam and lab work were normal, and an MRI of her brain showed only age-appropriate atrophy. Neu-ropsychological testing confirmed relatively average verbal memory performance, but this was concern-

ing given an estimated superior IQ. Angie decided to get screened for one of the anti-amyloid immunother-apy studies and turned out to have a positive amyloid-based PET scan. She began antibody infusions a few weeks later.

That was five years ago. I recently got a call from Angie asking when we were starting up our brain fit-ness classes which she loved so much. She was laughing over the phone when describing how her hus-band was going stir crazy at home during the pandemic. I heard about what her children and grandchildren were up to, and her thoughts on the latest political events. She remem-bered our last discussion about our center’s foray into telehealth. Let me repeat: Angie is five years post her positive amyloid PET scan results and an immunotherapy trial. She does not present as suffering from a disease; she shows me how she is thriving in the face of it. I would not have been faulted five years ago for using the words “disease” and “decline” and “dependence” when breaking the diagnostic news to Angie. And, in fact, I did not candy-coat the test results. But neither did I try to define who she was and who she would be based on her diagno-sis of Alzheimer’s disease. Our team recognized and communicated then, as we do now, that Angie would con-tinue to “live” with her neurocogni-tive changes, and this living could be shaped by what she wanted it to be. And she has! Not every course of a neurocognitive disorder is as benign as Angie’s, but it is clear that all of these disorders have heterogeneous expressions and variable courses, and our ability to predict a given person’s journey is nearly impossible. Given the certainly of that uncertainly, why are we sometimes so negative and harsh in our words and predictions?

There are two key lessons to be learned. The first lesson is that our words do matter. A person described as “suffering from a disease” might deserve our pity and care as we escort them down the hill, constrain our expectations, and focus mostly on easing the burden. Such language will influence our treatment plans to be palliative and formulaic. In con-trast, a person described as “living with neurocognitive change” will be seen more as a partner to be guid-ed and bolstered by a creative and expansive plan that seeks to enrich their life, sculpted to the changes we see. The second lesson is that a more positive approach to neurocognitive changes can change the dynamics of our relationship with the affected person and thus influence its very course in certain ways. This les-son was emphasized by the vision-ary British doctor Thomas Kitwood (one of the first clinicians to coin the term “person-centered care”), who urged us to break free from the stan-dard care model he referred to as a

“malignant social psychology” and focus on meaningful interactions that can bolster mind, brain, and body. The “personhood” that emerges is, in his words, the status we confer

on other human beings that shows “recognition, respect, and trust” (Kit-wood, 1997, p. 8).

To apply these lessons requires a commitment to analyzing our own attitudes and interactions with the people who come to our MDCs. We have the unique opportunity not only to care for them, but to get to know them and allow them to care for us as well. They are living with changes as we all do in different ways as we age. We are obligated to be faithful to the current scientific understand-ing of Alzheimer’s disease and other neurocognitive disorders, but we also have to realize that every disease state dwells within a unique person and will be shaped by a multitude of ever-changing factors. Positive, mutually interactive approaches can identify and leverage each person’s strengths and help promote living over declining. Whether we do that in person, over the phone, or on a video chat these days, it really makes all the difference.

Marc Agronin, MD is a psychiatrist and Chief Medical Officer for MIND Institute at Miami Jewish Health, the newest MDC in Florida.

LIVING WITH CHANGE

OCTOBER 2020Elder Update18 COMMUNITY SUPPORT

Francine C. Parfitt, MS, CNPResearch Education SpecialistMayo Clinic

The Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (ADRC) at Mayo Clinic promotes research and educa-tion about healthy brain aging, mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's disease, and other relat-ed dementia disorders. For patients and families affected by Alzheimer's disease or a related demen-tia, the ADRC at Mayo Clinic offers education and support programs, as well as opportunities to par-ticipate in clinical trials and research discoveries.

The Outreach, Recruitment, and Engagement (ORE) core of the ADRC provides the most cur-rent information about healthy brain aging and dementia to people who participate in center studies, as well as the community at large. Edu-cation is provided about risk factors for memory loss, how dementia is diagnosed and treated, and how patients and caregivers can live well despite a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. Core activities also involve outreach and research for improving the day-to-day lives of patients, care partners, and families of those with dementia.

In 2018 the ORE Core team began working close-ly with the New Town neighborhood of Jackson-ville, Florida. A primarily residential community, New Town is located in Jacksonville's Urban Core, immediately northwest of Downtown. It is bound-ed by Kings Road to the north, I-95 to the west, Seminary Street to the east, and Beaver Street to the south.

New Town was developed in the early 20th cen-tury to house African-American railroad workers and those who worked in nearby industrial areas. It is home to Florida's oldest historically Black col-lege, but by the 21st century, the neighborhood fell into urban decay, plagued by crime, failing schools, health problems, and endemic poverty. Situated in Jacksonville’s Health Zone 1, a region designated as having the highest degree of health disparities, the city established the New Town Success Zone in 2008. Originally modeled after New York City's Harlem Children's Zone, the program provided comprehensive social and educational programs and services to children. Over time, however, the New Town Success Zone expanded its programs to promote health and wellness for all community residents, including elders.

In 2018 the Mayo Clinic ADRC outreach team partnered with New Town community stakehold-ers to embark on a mission to make New Town a “Dementia Friendly Community.” A Dementia Friendly Community is described as a place where people living with dementia are accepted, under-stood, respected, and supported as a community member. A Dementia Friendly Community allows those living with people living with dementia to remain involved in and respected by the communi-ty. In a Dementia Friendly Community, people will be aware of and understand dementia, and people living with dementia will be included and have choice and control over their day-to-day lives and level of engagement. (Alzheimer’s Society Ontario, adapted in part)

The first step in this project was to listen to what the community felt was needed regarding dementia awareness, resources, and care. Over 100 commu-nity members participated in focus group meetings, and top areas of concern were identified, includ-ing dementia education and awareness, insufficient caregiver resources, and lack of access to safe and appropriate social activities to combat isolation and stigma related to having dementia. After several workshops where participants discussed and priori-tized programming themes, a group of community volunteers and Mayo ADRC outreach staff devel-oped and implemented education programs, skill-building workshops, a caregiver support group, and a social activity program for the New Town community.

CARE PARTNER SUPPORT GROUP A local sup-port group for care partners of loved ones with dementia was created and facilitated by a commu-nity volunteer, who often enlists a guest partici-pant to generate discussion and provide support on topics important to caregivers. The support group leader also personally calls participants in between group meetings to check in.

COMMUNITY EDUCATION PROGRAMS Guest speakers provide monthly presentations on the latest research and treatment of dementia, infor-mation on the diagnosis and care of people with dementia, and resources for community members who have memory loss or are caring for a loved one with dementia. During the current COVID-19

CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

Outreach and Community Engagement in Jacksonville’s New Town Community

PICTURED ABOVE: JACKSONVILLE'S NEW TOWN COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS

OCTOBER 2020Elder Update 19COMMUNITY SUPPORT

Fae WilkesLibrarian, Planning and EvaluationFlorida Department of Elder Affairs

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many changes to be made in our lives and in how Florida deliv-ers elder care services. Senior centers, adult day centers, and congregate meal sites were closed, and many are still closed. Long-term care residents have not been allowed to have visitors, and some older adults and their caregivers may be feeling isolated and lonely without the everyday activities and social events they are used to. These programs and services can be especially important to older adults with suspected Alzheimer’s and related dementias (ADRD), who are already at a greater risk of isolation and depression, and their caregiv-ers. Some daily programs may not be available due to closures or the need to social distance, and new elder care services and supports are being deliv-ered in ways that would have seemed improbable just a few years ago.

Robotic pets, MP3 personal music players, and Project: VITAL’s computer tablets are three new ways that the Florida Department of Elder Affairs is bringing activities and outside connections to older Floridians and their caregivers who are stay-ing home and socially distancing.

Pets offer love and entertainment, and they make people happy, but many older adults are not able to have a pet due to the cost, because they live in a place that does not let them have pets, or their caregiver may not want the extra care of a pet. The Department has sent over 2,450 robotic cats and dogs to older adults with ADRD and their caregiv-ers, offering the benefits of pet ownership without the costs or care. Soft and furry, the robotic cats and dogs are small enough to sit on a lap; their heads, paws, and tails move; the cat purrs and meows; and the dog barks. Also, living animals might bite or scratch, but not the robotic pets, and

they don’t carry fleas or ticks. With these pets there aren’t any food or vet bills, and of course, “Fluffy” requires no litter box or dog run. One caregiver said that her mother was so happy to have a pet and that she thinks the cat likes her best because it sits in her lap and meows and purrs.

The MP3 personal music players are another way the Department is supporting over 1,000 of Flor-ida’s home-bound older adults and caregivers, through musical entertainment and enjoyment. Each MP3 player is programmed with personal favorites and arrives ready to strike up the band. The players are portable, easy to use and clean, and they aren’t too big or small for older hands. Music helps relax and calm people and can give a boost to physical exercises through dancing or just by keep-ing the beat. Music can bring back positive memo-ries that may soothe or distract those who are agi-tated or depressed. Caregivers and family members say that music helps them deal with behavior issues and problems with their loved ones, and that they feel less stress and depression themselves.

Project: VITAL (Virtual Inclusive Technology for All) was developed by DOEA in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association, Inc. Since the pandemic began, 300 specially designed, easy to use and sanitize computer tablets were provided to older adults at senior facilities across the state. The tablets are already loaded with applications including video chat, games, music, and internet browsers. Residents can go online, listen to music, and watch videos and movies. The tablet’s most popular use is video chat, and some staff members say that the only real problem they have is having enough room in the schedule for all the residents who want time online for family chats.

For more information about the robotic pets, MP3 players, and Project: VITAL, please contact your local Area Agency on Aging or call the Elder Helpline at 800-963-5337.

New Ways That Florida Supports Socially Isolated Elders and Caregivers

PICTURED ABOVE: SYLVIA AND HER ROBOTIC PET CAT

PICTURED BELOW:A SENIOR PARTICIPANT OF PROJECT: VITAL MAKING A VIDEO CALL TO A LOVED ONE

OCTOBER 2020Elder Update20 VETERANS' AFFAIRS

Lee Ann Sferrazza-RiosPublic Affairs ManagerFlorida Department of Veterans' Affairs

The 2020 edition of the Florida Veterans’ Benefits Guide is now available in print, courtesy of the Florida Veterans Foundation. The 32-page full-color guide, with new legislative and COVID-19 updates, is also available online at floridavets.org/resources/va-benefits-guide.

To request an individual copy of the Florida Veter-ans’ Benefits Guide, please email FrazierM@fdva.state.fl.us. To request guides in bulk of 50 copies or more, please email Sferrazza-RiosL@fdva.state.fl.us.

Governor’s 2020 Budget Highlights Veteran-Related InitiativesGov. Ron DeSantis signed several veteran-friendly bills from the 2020 Florida Legislative Session into law. Here is a summary of changes impacting older veterans in the Sunshine State:

HB 877 – Ad Valorem Tax Discount for Spouses of Certain Deceased Veterans Who Had Per-manent, Combat-Related Disabilities. Proposes amending the State Constitution to authorize the surviving spouse of a deceased combat-related dis-abled veteran to carry over certain discounts on ad valorem taxes on homestead property until the surviving spouse remarries or sells or otherwise disposes of the property.

HB 879 – Surviving Spouse Ad Valorem Tax Reduction. The bill implements HB 877 by plac-ing the legislation as a proposed Constitutional Amendment before Florida voters on the Novem-ber 2020 ballot. If voted favorably, the amendment extends the homestead tax exemption of veter-ans 65 and older with combat-related disabilities who pass to the surviving spouse. At present, the exemption ends upon the death of the eligible veteran.

HB 1249 – Transfer of Tax Exemption for Veterans. The act adds a provision to an existing

law requiring that veterans who were honorably discharged with a service-connected total and per-manent disability or their surviving spouses who are entitled to receive ad valorem exemptions on property taxes for one property, may receive a pro-rated reimbursement of taxes paid on any property they buy between Jan. 1 and Nov. 1 of any year.

Highlights Within the Appropriation for the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs

• $9 million in non-recurring General Revenue to help complete the costs of the Lake Baldwin State Veterans’ Nursing Home in Orlando and the Ardie R. Copas State Veterans’ Nursing Home in Port St. Lucie. Both are scheduled to open in late 2020.

• An additional $1.8 million to finish the grant application to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for federal dollars to complete the Lake Baldwin State Veterans’ Nursing Home.

• 104 new positions to staff the Lake Baldwin State Veterans’ Nursing Home and Ardie R. Copas State Veterans’ Nursing Home.

• Five new positions for the FDVA Benefits and Assistance Division to aid our state’s veterans in connecting them with earned services, benefits and support.

Services Available to Veterans and FamiliesTo contact a teleworking FDVA Veterans’ Claims Examiner, call (727) 319-7440 and they’ll return your call within 24 hours. Their role is to connect Florida veterans with earned services, benefits and support at no charge. You may also contact them via e-mail at VSO@fdva.state.fl.us.

Crisis Counseling AvailableFor 24-hour counsel, call the National Veteran Cri-sis Hotline at 1-800-273-8255. Veterans in Florida may also call the Florida Veterans Support Line at 1-844-MyFLVet (693-5838) or 2-1-1.

National Cemeteries Resume Committal ServicesU.S. Department of Veterans Affairs national cem-eteries resumed committal services in June at all Florida VA national cemeteries. Interments will be offered the option of a committal service at the time of interment. Military funeral honors, cus-tomarily provided by the Department of Defense and volunteer honor guards, will be based on local availability. For more information, contact the National Cemetery Scheduling Office at (800) 535-1117.

VA Caregiver ProgramThe U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Caregiver Support Program (CSP) recognizes caregivers play a critical role in caring for veterans every day, and even more so now, in the time of COVID-19. Your local Caregiver Support Coordinator (CSC) can link you to important resources and services that are available to you, as a caregiver, and to the vet-eran. The Caregiver Support Line, 1-855-260-3274, is available and offers support by caring licensed professionals.

FLORIDA VETERANS’ BENEFITS GUIDE NOW AVAILABLE IN PRINT

OCTOBER 2020Elder Update 21OFFICE OF FINANCIAL REGULATION

Commissioner Russell C. Weigel, IIIOffice of Financial Regulation

As we continue to navigate the new normal during this global pandemic, I want to reassure you that the Florida Office of Financial Regulation (OFR) is continuing to supervise the financial services industry and serve our citizens. Our office over-sees the regulation of state financial institutions, consumer finance businesses, money transmitters, securities broker dealers, and investment advisers.

Elders who are avoiding social contact can actu-ally make themselves more vulnerable to financial scammers. Financial scammers take advantage of desperate situations, and tragedies like the pan-demic can create the perfect climate for financial crime.

Here are some of the new pitches from scammers:

SCAMS OFFERING COVID-19 VACCINE, CURE, AIR FILTERS, TESTING: If you receive a phone call, email, text message, or letter with claims to sell you any of these items – be wary. It is likely to be a scam.

FAKE CORONAVIRUS-RELATED CHARITY SCAMS: Be careful about any charity calling you asking for donations. If you are able to financially

assist the fight against COVID-19, visit the web-site of the charity of your choice to make sure your money is going to the right place.

“PERSON IN NEED” SCAMS: Scammers could use the circumstances of the coronavirus to pose as a grandchild, relative, or friend who claims to be ill, stranded in another state or foreign country, or otherwise in trouble, and ask you to send money. Don’t act! Instead, call your grandchild or friend’s phone number to see if the story checks out.

SCAMS TARGETING YOUR SOCIAL SECU-RITY BENEFITS: Any communication that says the Social Security Administration will suspend or decrease your benefits due to COVID-19 is a scam, whether you receive it by letter, text, email, or phone call. Report Social Security scams to the SSA Inspector General online at oig.ssa.gov.

OFR is looking out for your financial wellbeing, and we hope that you find these tips helpful during this challenging time. As always, you can visit our website, flofr.com, to verify that you're working with a licensed professional. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, do your homework, and contact OFR to report financial fraud or suspicious activity at (850) 487-9687 or online, flofr.com.

Introducing Office of Financial Regulation Commissioner WeigelCommissioner Weigel is an AV-rated securi-ties attorney, with more than 30 years of legal experience, and a published author. In 2005, he founded a securities transactional and litigation firm. Prior to that, he served as a securities transactional and litigation attorney for two other law firms, as an enforcement attorney with the Securities and Exchange Commission for more than 10 years, and as an assistant state attorney for the Office of the State Attorney, Tenth Judicial Circuit. He holds an undergraduate degree in econom-ics from Vanderbilt University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Miami School of Law. Mr. Weigel was appointed Commis-sioner of the Office of Financial Regulation in December 2019 by Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet.

WE’RE LOOKING OUT FOR FLORIDIANS AND THEIR FINANCIAL WELLNESS

OCTOBER 2020Elder Update22

pandemic, these presentations have increased to twice monthly and featured virtually on alternate Wednesday evenings via Zoom.

MEMORY CAFÉ With assistance from two com-munity coordinators, a Memory Café was estab-lished for those with dementia and their care part-ner. Memory Café offers a social opportunity to have fun and connect with others in a safe and non-judgmental environment. The New Town Memory Café typically meets monthly, but is on hiatus during the current COVID-19 pandemic.

COMMUNITY AWARENESS EVENTS The Mayo Clinic ADRC outreach team maintains a communi-ty advisory board that is committed to developing and implementing free, large-scale, annual com-munity events raising awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. In 2017, The Rev-erend Al Sharpton, co-chair of African Americans Against Alzheimer’s, presented a call to action for the Jacksonville African American community to avoid denial of the disparate impact of Alzheimer’s disease on the community and to participate in research seeking to cure dementia. In 2018, a stag-ing of the award winning play, “Forget Me Not,” was brought to Jacksonville for two performances at The Ritz Theater. The play chronicles the ways

in which an African American family comes to grip with signs of Alzheimer’s disease in a loved one, and was presented along with a panel discus-sion featuring dementia experts. In 2019, ADRC community outreach advisors created partnerships with area churches to present a brief dementia awareness program during Sunday services fol-lowed by an opportunity to speak with staff and community advisors after worship. Those interest-ed in or concerned about memory loss were given resource information and an opportunity to sign up for free community memory screenings.

COMMUNICATION In addition to the programs, events, and activities discussed above, the Mayo Clinic ADRC outreach team also works with com-munity partners to produce a bi-monthly newslet-ter containing news, articles, facts, and tips about dementia. A calendar of community dementia pre-sentations and events is also included. Additionally, the Mayo Clinic ADRC also maintains a website of dementia-related information and opportunities to learn about and participate in ongoing discovery programs to fight Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders.

Our community participants and volunteers have expressed gratitude for the programs provided in

New Town. Here are some comments from partici-pants involved with the project:

“It is a pleasure and privilege to have such a rich opportunity to be a part of the NEW TOWN COMMUNITY CONNECTION.”

“Meeting and greeting new people and learning about Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.”

“To be under the tutorship of such kind and car-ing people.”

For more information contact the Mayo Clinic Alzheimer’s Disease Center Outreach Team:

Phone: 904-953-6523Email: FLAMayoADRC@mayo.edudementiaoutreach.mayo.edu

New Town DFC program was funded by grants from the FL DOH Ed & Ethel Moore Alzheimer’s Disease Research Program (#8AZ08), the Nation-al Institute on Aging (AG16574/AG62677), and the Grace H. Osbourn Endowment at The Community Foundation of Northeast Florida.

OUTREACH AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT…CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20

His wife was grateful to understand that Ditdot’s behaviors had a purpose and were common in patients with advanced AD. She was optimistic about trying to have a conversation using Morse code. She was still able to learn new things. I explained that he could not learn new things as he had once done. Understanding the way AD affects the brain and how her husband’s behavior had meaning did help his wife. I was so touched when his wife said, “He did remember me.” It gave her some hope.

Ditdot and his wife did come to several Alzheim-er’s disease-training classes and our Alzheimer’s 101 monthly support/education meetings. Even with community resources for respite care, his wife did not want to leave him at home. Whenever they came to the meetings, I always greeted him with

“Ditdot” and he would tap dotdashdashdash dash-dashdash dashdotdashdash, which meant “joy” in Morse code! I remember that he loved cookies, and

I would fix him a plateful. He smiled so happily. When he would begin tapping, I would know he was communicating, and I kept my Morse code copy in my hand. Just in case you are wondering what Ditdot asked me when we first met it was “HELP.” He too was searching for answers.

I learned so much about communication, behav-ior, love, commitment, and reality from this man. I have shared his story (with permission) over the years because they demonstrated love and commit-ment to each other. Our Memory Disorder Clinic provided not only an MD diagnosis, but informa-tion, education, compassion, community resources, support groups, detective work, and a desire to show compassion to our AD community and their caregivers. This is an example of the service you can expect from any of the 17 Department of Elder Affairs’ designated Memory Disorder Clinics even if you are not a patient.

DITDOT…CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

www.brainbashers.com

SUDOKU SOLUTION4 1 2 5 9 7 3 8 63 6 5 4 1 8 7 2 99 8 7 2 3 6 5 4 18 9 3 7 2 1 4 6 52 5 4 8 6 9 1 7 31 7 6 3 4 5 8 9 26 2 8 1 7 3 9 5 47 4 1 9 5 2 6 3 85 3 9 6 8 4 2 1 7

OCTOBER 2020Elder Update 23ELDER RESOURCES

Information & Referral:

1-800-96-ELDER(1-800-963-5337)

Information and referrals for elder services are available through the Elder Helpline within each county. For the deaf or speech impaired, all Elder Helplines can be accessed through the Florida Relay by dialing 711 from anywhere in Florida.

Florida Area Agencies on Aging (Counties Served)

Northwest Florida Area Agency on Aging, Inc. 5090 Commerce Park Circle Pensacola, FL 32505 850-494-7101 (Escambia, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa and Walton Counties)

Advantage Aging Solutions 2414 Mahan Drive Tallahassee, FL 32308 850-488-0055 (Bay, Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Taylor, Wakulla and Washington Counties)

Elder Options 100 SW 75th Street, #301 Gainesville, FL 32607 352-378-6649 (Alachua, Bradford, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hernando, Lafayette, Lake, Levy, Marion, Putnam, Sumter, Suwannee and Union Counties)

ElderSource 10688 Old St. Augustine Road Jacksonville, FL 32257 904-391-6600 (Baker, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Nassau, St. Johns and Volusia Counties)

Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas, Inc. 9549 Koger Boulevard North Gadsden Building, Suite 100 St. Petersburg, FL 33702 727-570-9696 (Pasco and Pinellas Counties)

Senior Connection Center, Inc. 8928 Brittany Way Tampa, FL 33619 813-740-3888 (Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, Manatee and Polk Counties)

Senior Resource Alliance 3319 Maguire Boulevard, Suite 100 Orlando, FL 32803 407-514-1800 (Brevard, Orange, Osceola and Seminole Counties)

Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida 2830 Winkler Avenue, Suite 112 North Fort Myers, FL 33916 239-652-6900 (Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Glades, Hendry, Lee and Sarasota Counties)

Your Aging and Disability Resource Center 4400 North Congress Avenue West Palm Beach, FL 33407 561-684-5885 (Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, Palm Beach and St. Lucie Counties)

Aging and Disability Resource Center of Broward County, Inc. 5300 Hiatus Road Sunrise, FL 33351 954-745-9567 (Broward County)

Alliance for Aging, Inc. 760 NW 107th Avenue, Suite 214 Miami, FL 33172 305-670-6500 (Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties)

If you need information about, or referral to, a service provider outside Florida, call the national Eldercare Locator Service at 1-800-677-1116. An information specialist will assist you Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 11 p.m. Eastern time. For people with Telecommunication Devices for the Deaf (TDDs), all Elder Helplines, as well as the Eldercare Locator Service, can be accessed through Florida Relay Service at 1-800-955-8771.

FLORIDA ELDER HELPLINE DIRECTORY Please call the telephone number below in your area for information and referrals.

Are you worried that an elder relative or friend may be the victim of abuse? You can report known or suspected cases of abuse by calling Florida’s Abuse Hotline at 1-800-96-ABUSE (1-800-962-2873).

Elder Helpline Can Assist Non-English Speakers

By calling the Elder Helpline, Florida’s elders can access information and referral services through a translation service. Telephone interpreters provide live, on-the-line assistance by translating from English into as many as 148 different languages.

Alachua . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-262-2243 Baker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 888-242-4464Bay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-467-4624Bradford . . . . . . . . . . . .800-262-2243 Brevard . . . . . . . . . . . . 407-514-0019Broward . . . . . . . . . . . 954-745-9779Calhoun . . . . . . . . . . . 866-467-4624Charlotte . . . . . . . . . . . 866-413-5337Citrus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-262-2243 Clay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 888-242-4464Collier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-413-5337Columbia . . . . . . . . . . .800-262-2243 DeSoto . . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-413-5337Dixie. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-262-2243 Duval . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 888-242-4464Escambia . . . . . . . . . . . 866-531-8011Flagler . . . . . . . . . . . . . 888-242-4464Franklin . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-467-4624Gadsden . . . . . . . . . . . 866-467-4624Gilchrist. . . . . . . . . . . . .800-262-2243 Glades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-413-5337Gulf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-467-4624Hamilton . . . . . . . . . . .800-262-2243 Hardee . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-336-2226Hendry . . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-413-5337Hernando . . . . . . . . . . .800-262-2243Highlands . . . . . . . . . . 800-336-2226Hillsborough . . . . . . . 800-336-2226Holmes . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-467-4624Indian River . . . . . . . . 866-684-5885Jackson . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-467-4624Jefferson . . . . . . . . . . . 866-467-4624Lafayette . . . . . . . . . . .800-262-2243 Lake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-262-2243

Lee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-413-5337Leon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-467-4624Levy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-262-2243 Liberty . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-467-4624Madison . . . . . . . . . . . 866-467-4624Manatee . . . . . . . . . . . 800-336-2226Marion. . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-262-2243Martin . . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-684-5885Miami-Dade . . . . . . . .305-670-4357Monroe . . . . . . . . . . . .305-670-4357Nassau . . . . . . . . . . . . 888-242-4464Okaloosa . . . . . . . . . . . 866-531-8011Okeechobee . . . . . . . 866-684-5885Orange . . . . . . . . . . . . .407-514-0019Osceola . . . . . . . . . . . . .407-514-0019Palm Beach . . . . . . . . 866-684-5885Pasco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 727-217-8111Pinellas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 727-217-8111Polk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-336-2226Putnam . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-262-2243 Santa Rosa . . . . . . . . . . 866-531-8011Sarasota . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-413-5337Seminole . . . . . . . . . . .407-514-0019St. Johns . . . . . . . . . . . 888-242-4464St. Lucie . . . . . . . . . . . 866-684-5885Sumter . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-262-2243 Suwannee . . . . . . . . . .800-262-2243 Taylor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-467-4624Union. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .800-262-2243 Volusia . . . . . . . . . . . . . 888-242-4464Wakulla . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-467-4624Walton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-531-8011Washington . . . . . . . . 866-467-4624

OCTOBER 2020Elder Update24 ALZHEIMER'S AWARENESS

Laura Copeland Dementia Care and Cure Initiative Program CoordinatorFlorida Department of Elder Affairs

November 2020 will mark the 37th anniversary of National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, which was designated by President Ronald Rea-gan in 1983. During this month, the goal is to help the public become more educated about and raise awareness of Alzheimer’s, as the impacts of this disease spread far and wide across the United States. At present, there are more than five million Americans living with Alzheimer’s, which is the most common type of dementia, and is the sixth leading cause of death in our country.

The Alzheimer’s Association estimates that in Florida, there are 580,000 cases of Alzheimer’s, and this number is expected to increase to 720,000 by 2025. These statistics do not include any other types of dementia, nor the over 1.1 million unpaid caregivers who are providing care for their loved ones living with this disease. Alzheimer’s is also the sixth leading cause of death in Florida and is the only top-10 leading cause of death that does not yet have a cure.

There are common age-related changes that occur as we age, but It is important to note that dementia is not a normal part of aging. The Centers for Dis-ease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines demen-tia as a general term for conditions that cause loss of memory severe enough that they may impact a person’s ability to carry out daily activities. The CDC defines Alzheimer’s disease as a type of dementia that causes problems with memory, thinking, language, and behavior, with symptoms that worsen over time.

Issues with cognition may not always be related to dementia, and below is a list of 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s, created by the Alzheimer’s Association:

• Memory loss that disrupts daily life• Challenges in planning or solving problems• Difficulty completing familiar tasks• Confusion with time or place• Trouble understanding visual images

and spatial relationships• New problems with words in speaking

or writing• Misplacing things and losing the ability

to retrace steps• Decreased or poor judgment• Withdrawal from work or social activities• Changes in mood and personality

If you or a loved one are experiencing one or more of the warning signs, help is available. Early detec-tion/diagnosis is advantageous and may result in a higher quality of life and more time to plan. You are encouraged to reach out to your primary care physician or to one of Florida’s 17 Memory Disor-der Clinics (MDCs) throughout the state. MDCs conduct diagnostic evaluations on Floridians of any age suspected of having a memory disorder to determine probable Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias (ADRD). In addition to providing diag-nostic and clinical services, these clinics also pro-vide patient and caregiver support, education, and conduct research. To see a map of the locations and contact information for these clinics throughout Florida, please visit elderaffairs.org. For infor-mation about Alzheimer’s resources in your area, call your local Area Agency on Aging at 1-800-96-ELDER (1-800-963-5337).

Having a diagnosis of dementia is not synony-mous with a death sentence. Many people who have ADRD will continue to live active, mean-ingful, and purposeful lives. The Department of Elder Affairs established the Dementia Care and Cure Initiative (DCCI) in 2015 in response to the increasing incidence of dementia by implement-ing a statewide effort to becoming more dementia-caring – acting to support those diagnosed with and living with dementia, their families, their

loved ones, and caregivers – bettering commu-nities and the state overall. Volunteer run DCCI Task Forces operate in Dementia-Caring Com-munities throughout Florida, and they are making their communities more hospitable and welcom-ing to those affected by dementia by increasing awareness, providing assistance and education, and continuing advocacy efforts, the whole year through. For more information about this initiative or to find a Task Force close to you, please email DCCI@elderaffairs.org.

Most people will have a personal connection to or feel the impacts firsthand of Alzheimer’s disease at some point in their lifetime, and raising aware-ness of this disease and its impacts on families and society is crucial. This year during November, consider registering for a clinical trial through the Alzheimer’s Association TrialMatch®, which is a free, easy-to-use clinical-studies matching service that connects individuals living with Alzheimer’s, caregivers, and healthy volunteers with current research studies, or registering with the Florida Brain Bank to donate your brain post-mortem for Alzheimer’s research. Other ideas include donating to a local or national Alzheimer’s nonprofit, taking a walk to honor a loved one who lived with or is currently living with dementia, or checking in with a caregiver you know. But why just limit yourself to a month? Feel free to carry-out these activities and raise awareness about Alzheimer’s year-round!

@ElderAffairs

National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month