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(NAPS)—Mutual of Omaha’s WildKingdom premiered on NBC on Jan. 6,1963. And television hasn’t been the samesince.

“Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdombrought the world’s most exotic placesand creatures right into Americans’ livingrooms,” said Jim Fowler, who joined thelegendary Marlin Perkins as the show’sco-host. “Over the years it also became aSunday evening tradition for families allacross the country. And we pioneered anew television genre—the reality show.

“Of course, at the time we just wantedto create the most entertaining and educa-tional show we could,” Fowler said.

Mission accomplished. From its pre-miere 50 years ago, Mutual of Omaha’sWild Kingdom has entertained, educatedand inspired generations of Americans.Wild Kingdom received 41 major awardsincluding four Emmys. It was the first tele-vision program to receive the NationalPTA’s endorsement for recommended

family viewing.“I can’t tell you how many people tell

me that they pursued a career in zoology,wildlife conservation or a related fieldbecause of Wild Kingdom,” Fowler said.“Beyond the awards and the ratings, thepositive impact the show has had is trulyastounding.”

NBC was home to Mutual of Omaha’sWild Kingdom until 1970, when it was syn-dicated on the Mutual of Omaha NationalSyndication Network. More than 200 localtelevision stations joined the network,enabling the show to reach the largestaudience in its history.

The original Mutual of Omaha’s WildKingdom remained in production until1986, with Peter Gros joining Fowler asthe show’s co-host upon Marlin Perkins’retirement. It continued in syndicationthrough the mid-1990s.

The Wild Kingdom story didn’t endthere, however. From 2002 through 2011,the Animal Planet network was home to a

new series of Mutual of Omaha’s WildKingdom shows. These programs built onthe Wild Kingdom heritage by offeringviewers compelling wildlife stories in one-hour documentary format.

It’s been quite a ride for the last halfcentury. And the story’s not done yet.

“We’re excited to celebrate a half centu-ry of adventure, and we’ve got lots of excit-ing things planned to kick off Wild King-dom’s next 50 years,” Fowler said. “WildKingdom has always been ahead of itstime, and we’re moving forward on initia-tives that will thrill our current fans andengage new generations.”

Wildkingdom.com is the hub of all thatis new and exciting in the Wild Kingdom,Fowler said. From there, viewers can linkto a new Wild Kingdom YouTube channelthat features a complete library of originalWild Kingdom shows as well as newvideos.

Liking “Wild Kingdom TV” on Face-book and “Wild Kingdom” on Twitter will

allow fans to keep up with all the latestWild Kingdom news, videos, contests andtrivia, he said.

For more information, visitwww.wildkingdom.com.

Wild Kingdom celebrates 50 years on television

The first actual reality show hasentertained, educated and inspiredgenerations of Americans.


Uncle Samwants you to save for retirement(NAPS)—If you ever feel your finances

are too stretched to save for retirement,there could be good news for you. TheRetirement Savings Contributions Credit,also known as the Saver’s Credit—a little-known tax credit made available by the IRSto low- to moderate-income workers—couldmake saving for retirement more affordablethan you think. It may reduce your federalincome taxes when you save for retirementthrough a qualified retirement plan or anindividual retirement account (IRA).

“The Saver’s Credit is particularly greatbecause it offers many workers an addedincentive to save for their future retirement,while potentially lowering their tax billtoday,” said Catherine Collinson, presidentof the Transamerica Center for RetirementStudies®.

Here’s how it works:1. Check Your Eligibility

For singles, anyone earning up to $28,750 in 2012 or $29,500 in 2013 is eligible. Forthe head of a household, the income limit is $43,125 in 2012 or $44,250 in 2013. Forthose who are married and file a joint return, the income limit is $57,500 in 2012 or$59,000 in 2013. (All income requirements are based on Adjusted Gross Income.)

You must be 18 years or older by January 1 and cannot be a full-time student or beclaimed as a dependent on another person’s tax return. If you fit within these parame-ters, the Saver’s Credit may be for you.

Depending on your filing status and income level, you may qualify for a nonrefund-able credit of up to $1,000 (or $2,000 if filing jointly) on your federal income taxes for thatyear when you contribute to a 401(k), 403(b), 457, 501(c)(18)(D), SEP or SIMPLE plan,or an IRA.

2. Save for RetirementIf your employer offers a retirement plan, make sure you enroll. Or open a traditional

or Roth IRA with the financial institution of your choice. If you are enrolled in youremployer’s retirement plan, you may already qualify for the credit.

In general, for every dollar you contribute to a qualified retirement plan or IRA, up tothe lesser of the limits permitted by an employer-sponsored plan or the IRS, you deferthat amount from your current overall taxable income on your federal tax returns.

3. File Your Tax Return and Claim the CreditWhen you prepare your federal tax returns, you then claim your Saver’s Credit by

subtracting this tax credit from your federal income taxes owed.

If you use a professional tax preparer, ask about the Saver’s Credit, called the “Retire-ment Savings Contributions Credit” on Forms 1040, 1040A and 1040NR. Or if you usetax preparation software, be sure to use Form 1040, Form 1040A or Form 1040NR to fileyour return.

The Saver’s Credit is not available with Form 1040EZ, although the IRS has includedinstructions with the EZ directing you to a different form if you choose to claim the cred-it.

Lastly, if you prepare your tax returns by hand, start with Form 8880, “Credit forQualified Retirement Savings Contributions,” to determine your credit rate and corre-

sponding credit amount. Then use Form 1040 or Form 1040A to file your return.

Transfer the amount of the Saver’s Credit from Form 8880 to line 50 of Form 1040,line 32 of Form 1040A or line 47 of Form 1040NR. Have questions? See IRS publication590, ask a tax professional or log on to the IRS website at www.irs.gov.

The 13th Annual Transamerica Retirement Survey found that just 20 percent ofAmerican workers with an annual household income of less than $50,000 are aware thatthe credit exists. Don’t overlook Uncle Sam’s Saver’s Credit; it may help you pay less inyour current federal income taxes while saving for retirement.

For more details on the Saver’s Credit and online retirement planning calculators, vis-it the Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies® at www.transamericacenter.org.

The Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies® is a non-profit, private foundation.

The Retirement Savings Contributions Credit, also known as the Saver’s Credit, is alittle-known tax credit made available by the IRS to low- to moderate-income workersthat could make saving for retirement more affordable than many people realize.

About Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies® .The Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies® (“The Center”) is a non-profit, pri-

vate foundation. The Center is funded by contributions from Transamerica Life Insur-ance Company and its affiliates and may receive funds from unaffiliated third parties.For more information about The Center, please refer to www.transamericacenter.org.

About the 13th Annual Retirement SurveyThis survey was conducted online within the United States by Harris Interactive on

behalf of Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies® between January 13 and 31,2012, among 3,609 full-time and part-time workers. Potential respondents were targetedbased on job title and full-time and part-time status.

Respondents met the following criteria: U.S. residents, age 18 or older, full-time work-ers or part-time workers in for-profit companies, and employer size of 10 or more.Results were weighted as needed for the number of employees at companies in eachemployee size range. No estimates of theoretical sampling error can be calculated; a fullmethodology is available.


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(NAPS)—An apple a day keeps the doctor away? Research shows an aspirin a daymay do the same. How often have you heard about chewing an aspirin if you feel thesymptoms of a heart attack? If it’s that critical to get the medication to your system, isn’tit as important to know you are taking a safe dose? Good news—there is a simple bloodtest that is available to aid your doctor in assessing response to aspirin.

For many Americans, a “baby” aspirin is prescribed—81 mg—for ongoing preventa-tive care post– cardiac procedure or even as a precautionary way to help prevent stroke.In fact, the USPSTF (United States Preventive Services Task Force) encourages aspirinintake for men aged 45–79 years to help prevent myocardial infarctions (also known asheart attacks) and women aged 55–79 years because of a potential benefit of stroke pre-vention. Always check with your physician before embarking on an aspirin regimen.

Since it’s known there are potential side effects with aspirin use, particularly stomachupset due to potential bleeding risks, you will want to be sure you are getting the optimaleffect with the lowest dose possible. The VerifyNow System is a product that tests foraspirin—providing the physician information on platelet reactivity. Aspirin and drugslike clopidogrel (the generic form of the branded drug Plavix) are anti-platelet medica-tions designed to prevent the blood cells from “sticking together.” The medications canhelp prevent a clot, which can lead to a more serious cardiovascular event. Studies showthat up to one in three patients’ platelets do not respond appropriately. Only your physi-cian can check to see how your platelets are reacting and make decisions about yourcare.

As with other medications, some people often wonder if their medications are havingthe desired effect. Stop wondering, and start asking about a chance to see how your

platelets are responding.The next time you visityour doctor, and you areasked for a blood sampleto measure your level ofcholesterol, or the techni-cian measures yourblood pressure, youmight want to ask aboutthe VerifyNow AspirinTest as well. Like thoseother routine measure-ments, this test is alsoavailable nationwide inhospitals and doctor’soffices.

Your health careprovider wants to providethe best protection possi-ble to you or a loved oneand so anyone on anti-platelet therapy should be tested. To find a physician who canoffer the easy-to-administer VerifyNow Tests, including one for aspirin and one called theVerifyNow PRUTest to see how the P2Y12 inhibitors (also known as brand name Plavixor the generic name, clopidogrel) are affecting the platelets, contact the company atwww.accumetrics.com/request or call (800) 643-1640.

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(NAPS)—For optimal health, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Preventionrecommends that older adults get a minimum of two hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or one hour and 15 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activi-ty every week. In addition, muscle-strengthening activities should be conducted two ormore days a week.

Why ExerciseExercise can help prevent many physical problems and chronic conditions that come

with aging, including weight gain, back pain and heart disease. Plus, it keeps the mindsharp and can help you feel happier, improving symptoms of depression and evendementia.

To gain these benefits, however, you need to find a fitness program that provides thephysical results desired and is enjoyable, too, so you’ll stick to it. That’s where thenation’s leading exercise program for older adults comes in. Healthways SilverSneakersFitness Program offers physical and group activities in a comprehensive program thatprovides full access to a health club, senior fitness classes, online resources, and socialexperiences.

“SilverSneakers incorporates a number of interactive and educational events into ourprograms because improving overall well-being includes focusing on both physical andemotional well-being,” said certified personal trainer Sims McMahon. “These eventshelp to create a sense of community and increase the feeling of belonging many of ourmembers hoped to find when joining the program.”

Research shows that participants enrolled in SilverSneakers for two years have fewerhospital admissions and significantly lower overall health care costs.

How To ExerciseBefore you begin any exercise program, McMahon has the following tips:1. See your doctor, especially if you have a chronic condition.2. Start slowly. Begin by walking, say, for 10 minutes or so a day. As you gain energy

and your body builds stamina, increase your activity levels and make it more challeng-ing.

3. Stay motivated. Have realistic short-term goals you can easily meet.4. Don’t be intimidated. Remember that everyone had to walk in the door for the first

time. Don’t let the thought of starting hold you back. You can do it.

Where To ExerciseTo make it all easier, Healthways SilverSneakers Fitness Program is available in

11,000 fitness centers nationwide. It’s free in most cases because it’s covered throughmany Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement and group retiree plans.

The classes are taught by credentialed instructors and focus on older adult-specificprogramming. An online program provides a number of resources, including healthy-liv-ing articles and recipes.

Members can also get exercise and nutrition plans and expert advice.

How To Learn MoreTo find out more information, including nearby locations, visit

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(NAPS)—Innovative technology for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and othermovement disorders was recently implanted for the 100,000th time worldwide, inspiringpeople like longtime fitness trainer Roy Roden to pursue previously impossible goals.

Roden has always had an adventurous spirit, and the 55-year-old and his wife Lynnenjoy participating in many interesting outdoor activities together. This month, Rodenand his wife embarked on their most challenging journey together yet—a 4,500-milecross-country bike ride to raise awareness and research funds for Parkinson’s disease.

Just a few months ago, these activities would have been unmanageable for Roden,who is one of the more than 1 million Americans living with Parkinson’s.

Diagnosed in 2008, he began experiencing difficulty over time with basic tasks, suchas eating and getting dressed. Each day, he was taking 10 different medications, andtheir effectiveness was waning.

“It was crazy—I was taking some medications purely to control the symptoms fromother medications,” Roden said.

Last July, Roden made the decision with his neurologist and family to pursueMedtronic Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) therapy, during which a small, pacemaker-likedevice sends electronic stimulation to a specific area of the brain that controls move-ment. The stimulation suppresses the unwanted motor symptoms of Parkinson’s dis-ease. The device is placed under the skin in the chest, and very thin wires connect thedevice to the brain to enable the electrical stimulation to reach the source of symptoms.

Roden says the tremors he experienced before the surgery have decreased thanks toMedtronic DBS therapy.

“DBS therapy has given me things I never would’ve had without it. I didn’t want to belooking in the mirror in 15 years, wishing I had done the surgery,” he said.

Roden added that when a cure is discovered for the disease, he will be ready. “Thetherapy is reversible, so when they find a cure, my doctor can just take the device out.”

Medtronic DBS therapy can reduce several motor symptoms associated with Parkin-son’s disease, including stiffness or inflexibility of the limbs or joints; slowness/absenceof movement; and involuntary, rhythmic shaking of a limb, the head, or the entire body.Results with the therapy vary; not every individual will receive the same benefits orexperience the same complications. Patients should discuss potential risks and benefitsof DBS with their physician. Medtronic DBS therapy is the only FDA-approved DBS

therapy in the United Statesfor Parkinson’s disease, aswell as essential tremor anddystonia (through a Humani-tarian Device Exemption).

“DBS therapy has har-nessed advanced technologyto meet the varied needs ofpatients and enabled them inmany cases to improve theirability to live well with move-ment disorders,” said BrunoV. Gallo, M.D., Roy’s neurolo-gist and Director of Intraop-erative Neurophysiology &DBS at the University of Mia-mi’s Department of Neurolo-gy.

That is certainly true forRoden. Feeling healthy andstrong, his mission is to edu-cate people who have Parkinson’s about their options for managing their disease. Roy,his wife and brother-in-law are currently on their 3.5-month-long bike ride, which startedin Seattle and will end in South Florida, and are making frequent stops to speak to com-munity groups and raise funds for Parkinson’s research.

“People’s amazing response to what we’re doing has restored my faith in humanity,”he said.

Roden sees his ability to bike cross-country as a true gift.“DBS therapy has opened a door for me. It’s been a great ride so far.”Learn MoreFor fur ther facts about Medtronic DBS Therapy, go to

www.knowbeforeyouneed.com or follow Roden’s journey at www.pdchallenge.com.

Living well with movement disorders

Medical technology has allowed one man withParkinson’s disease to take an epic bicycle jour-ney.


(NewsUSA) - More than 65 million people in the United States act as a caregiver for aloved one. One of those caregivers is Jessica Walker — wife of multiplatinum countrymusic recording artist Clay Walker.

Clay was diagnosed with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis or RRMS — a lifelongand unpredictable disease — at a pivotal time in his life. He was 26 and had just fin-

ished his fourth album, and his oldest daughter had just been born.

Approximately 400,000 Americans have been diagnosed with MS, and the majority ofpeople with the most common form of the disease, RRMS, are diagnosed in their 20sand 30s. Common symptoms reported in RRMS include episodic bouts of fatigue, numb-ness, vision problems and spasticity or stiffness.

Jessica and Clay have partnered with Teva Neuroscience and Clay’s non-profit organi-zation Band Against MS, on the “Share How You Care” campaign to shine a spotlight onthe important role of family caregivers.

Clay’s hectic schedule means he has to take a proactive role in managing hisdisease. A big part of that is made possible thanks to the help of his wife, Jessica. As acaregiver, she makes sure the family sticks to a routine and eats a healthy diet and

that Clay takes his RRMS treatment as prescribed. In recognition of National FamilyCaregivers Month, Jessica and Clay hope to empower caregivers by sharing what care-giving means to them and encouraging others to share their caregiver stories.

Jessica knows that the word “caregiver” doesn’t have one definition, so there is notone-size-fits-all advice. However, there are some helpful tips that she sticks to in her roleas a caregiver:

* Stay in the know, and learn as much as you can about your partner’sillness.

* Communicate and keep an open dialogue.

* Have a daily plan to reduce stress.

* Treat your partner like your partner; you don’t need to baby them — you need totry to be there for them. And most importantly,

* Have your own support system in place because it is important to take time foryourself.

For more on Jessica’s caregiver tips and to participate in the “Share How You Care”campaign, submit your own caregiver story or that of a loved one by visiting

www.BandAgainstMS.org.

Caring for caregivers Cold advice for diabetics

(NewsUSA) - Each year, an average of 200,000 Americans are hospitalized because offlu complications, but people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes are three times more likely toface complications that may be fatal, according to the Centers for Disease Control andPrevention. The best step is prevention, and anyone with diabetes should seriously con-sider getting a flu shot in the fall.

But for those who do get sick, it’s important that people with diabetes be prepared.The following sick-day plan is designed to help diabetic patients suffering from a cough,a cold or the flu.

* Get plenty of sleep, and even when awake, do resting activities (reading, watchingTV, online shopping) as long as you don’t find it stressful.

* “Feed a cold, starve a fever” is not advice you should follow. Eat plenty of healthyitems that are also easy to digest, like soups, sugar-free Jell-O and fruit juice mixed withwater and yogurt. Dehydration will cause your blood sugar to drop, so drink one cup ofsugar-free, caffeine-free liquid per hour.

* Medicine cabinets must go beyond a glucose meter and thermometer. You shouldalso have ketone-testing supplies and appropriate medications for cold and flu symp-toms.

“When suffering from a cough, cold or flu, it’s important for people with diabetes totreat their symptoms with medicine that doesn’t have a negative effect on their dia-betes,” says Debra Spector, registered dietitian and certified nutritionist.

“Most people don’t realize that cough syrups can contain up to 50 percent sugar, andcold and flu medicines may contain alcohol, both of which can raise one’s glucose, possi-bly to dangerous levels. Diabetic Tussin has been trusted by the medical community foryears because it is sugar and alcohol-free, so it’s 100 percent safe for diabetics. It’s evenrecommended for those on a sodium or gluten-free diet,” says Spector.

* Take your insulin and diabetes medicine on schedule, even if you experience nau-sea or haven’t eaten. Check your blood glucose at least four times a day.

* If your symptoms worsen, contact your doctor. Learn more about medicine for peo-ple with diabetes along with additional sick-day advice and nutritional recipes atwww.diabeticproducts.com.


“I’mnotreadyyet.”What is it thatyou’re notready for?

(NAPS)—Here’s eye-opening news: With a little help, the 2.9 million Americans liv-ing with low vision—and the millions more who may have to someday—can maximizetheir remaining eyesight and safely enjoy a productive and rewarding life.

What It IsLow vision means that even with regular glasses, contact lenses, medicine or surgery,

people find everyday tasks difficult to do. Reading the mail, shopping, cooking and writ-ing can seem challenging. Most people with low vision are 65 years old or older. Thechief causes of vision loss in older people are age-related macular degeneration, diabeticretinopathy, cataract and glaucoma. Among younger Americans, low vision is most oftencaused by inherited eye conditions, infectious and autoimmune eye disease, or trauma.

Getting Help“I encourage anyone with low vision to seek guidance about vision rehabilitation from

a low vision specialist,” advised Paul A. Sieving, M.D., Ph.D.A low vision specialist is an ophthalmologist or optometrist working with people with

low vision. He or she can develop a rehabilitation plan that identifies strategies and assis-tive devices appropriate for the person’s particular needs.

Vision rehabilitation can include:• training to use magnifying and adaptive devices• learning new daily living skills to remain safe and live independently• developing strategies to navigate inside and outside the home• providing resources and support.

“A vision rehabilitation plan helps people reach their true visual potential when noth-

ing more can be done from a medical orsurgical standpoint,” said Mark Wilkinson,O.D., a low vision specialist at the Universi-ty of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

More HelpHelp can also come from the National

Eye Institute (NEI), a part of NIH. It offersa 20-page large-print booklet, “What YouShould Know About Low Vision,” a seriesof videos featuring patient stories about liv-ing with low vision.

The NEI, committed to finding new ways to improve the lives of people living withvisual impairment, dedicates more than $24 million to research projects aimed at lowvision. Projects include learning how the brain adapts to vision loss, strategies toimprove vision rehabilitation, and the development of new technologies to help peoplewith low vision read, shop, and find their way in unfamiliar places.

Free ResourcesThe booklet, videos and other resources are at www.nei.nih.gov/lowvision.

Vision rehabilitation can make a world of difference to a person adjusting to visionloss and should be considered part of the continuum of care.

Help for Americans with vision loss

1 0 - M O R N I N G J O U R N A L P R I M E T I M E - S U N D A Y , F E B R U A R Y 2 4 , 2 0 1 3

NewsUSA) - Do you or someone you know take a medication to alleviate a conditionlike chronic pain, or perhaps to treat high cholesterol or high blood pressure? Well,while treating your issue, the medication may also cause a side effect that many of usdon’t want to talk about... constipation.

That’s right, while your medication can effectively manage your condition, it mightalso occasionally cause your bowels to “clog up.”

Constipation is really not that unusual, so you don’t have to feel embarrassed to talkabout it with your doctor or pharmacist. According to Registered Pharmacist Jim Morel-li, “Many people are unaware that their prescription, as well as some over-the-counter(OTC) drugs, can cause occasional constipation.”

The list of culprits include certain products from classes of medications such as anal-gesics, high blood pressure medications, and high?cholesterol drugs.

Occasional constipation can be uncomfortable, but there should be no shame in dis-cussing this condition with your health?care provider. It’s important to talk to your doc-tor about any side effects that you may experience while taking prescription orover?the?counter products.

If you become constipated, try a laxative tablet. The best tablets contain a natural veg-etable laxative ingredient, plus a stool softener, to provide gentle, overnight relief fromoccasional constipation. Please read full product label before use.

Don’t be embarrassed to discuss constipation

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(NAPS)—If you’re one of the 30 million Americans with a new Medicare card, youmay take a healthy interest in how best to benefit from it.

One of the first and most im portant things to consider now that your new plan is ineffect is prescription drug coverage. Perhaps the best way to save on medication costs isto utilize a pharmacy that’s within your Part D plan’s preferred network. Walgreens, forexample, is a part of preferred networks with some of the nation’s largest plans, such asCoventry, Humana, SmartD Rx and UnitedHealthcare.

The benefit to beneficiaries is not only convenience, but cost savings. By using a pre-ferred network pharmacy, you can recognize significant savings on prescription co-paysand medication expenditures.

It’s also important to understand the preventive health ser vices you may need, what’scovered by Medicare and where you can go for these and other services. Immuniza-tions, health tests and annual medication and plan reviews are all available at your localWalgreens, so talk with your pharmacist or plan provider if you have questions on theseor other services.

If you take multiple medications, many Medicare Part D plans will cover face-to-faceannual checkups as well. Your pharmacist will review all your medications, vitamins andsupplements, see if there are lower-cost alternatives and make sure you’re taking every-thing in the right way to get the best possible results.

The pharmacist can then call your doctor to discuss any recommended changes, andyou’ll re ceive a Medication Action Plan that you can share with your doctor.

Medicare covers an annual wellness visit at your doctor’s office, or you can visit TakeCare Clinics, which are located at select Walgreens. You’ll get a personalized plan to helpmanage your health and help you make the most informed decisions with no out-of-pocket costs.

Medicare Wellness benefits provide discounts on medications and services includingimmunizations, screenings for a number of common conditions, as well as education andcounseling to en courage wellness and prevent disease. However, according to the Cen-ters for Medicare & Medicaid Services, only 6.5 percent of eligible seniors have utilized

this benefit. That’s where your pharmacist can be a great resource to help understandwhat services are covered.

Learn More You can schedule appointments and get fur ther information at

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Elderly patients, who tend to take many medications prescribed by more than onedoctor, are at risk for prescription drug abuse, the Miami Herald reports. The articlenotes health experts are concerned about the increase in the number of patients overage 50 who require intervention and treatment for addiction to medication and othersubstances.

Nearly three in 10 people between ages 57 to 85 use at least five prescriptions, accord-ing to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).Between 1997 and 2008, the rate of hospital admissions for conditions related to pre-scription medications and illicit drug use rose by 96 percent among people ages 65 and84; for people 85 and older, admissions grew 87 percent. SAMHSA notes medicationmisuse and abuse can cause a range of harmful side effects, including drug-induceddelirium and dementia.

“There are physical, psychological and social factors that make elderly people morevulnerable to addiction,” Angela Conway of the South Miami Hospital’s Addiction Treat-ment Center, told the newspaper.

She notes the elderly may become dependent on drugs prescribed to deal with joint

pain, sleeping problems or injuriesfrom falls. She adds sadness over los-ing loved ones, or being far from fam-ily, may also increase the risk of drugdependence.

Conway says the main sign that aperson may be addicted to a medica-tion is if he or she is constantly think-ing about it and fears not being ableto function without it. Another warn-ing sign is when a person starts tak-ing medication at different times andin different doses from what theirphysician has prescribed.

Dr. Daniel Varón, neurologist at Mount Sinai Medical Center’s Wien Center forAlzheimer ’s disease and Memory Disorders in Miami Beach, told the newspaper elder-ly patients should undergo testing to distinguish memory loss or confusion caused bymedication from that caused by early Alzheimer’s.

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(NAPS)—Preparing for retirement can be a challenging process—and emergingsocial and economic trends are making the practice all the more important.

That’s the word from experts who say that longer life spans, uncertainty with SocialSecurity and Medicare, changes in employee benefits, and the rising cost of health careare placing more of the burden of funding retirement squarely on the shoulders of con-sumers.

Without a proper plan in place, it’s projected that many will fall short of their retire-ment goals.

Insured Retirement Institute (IRI) President and CEO Cathy Weatherford said IRIresearch has found that those who have the highest levels of confidence in their financialsecurity had developed a plan—complete with a targeted savings goal.

That’s why the National Retirement Planning Coalition, a group of prominent finan-cial industry, consumer education, and advocacy organizations spearheaded by the IRI,has organized National Retirement Planning Week, running April 8–12, 2013, to remindconsumers of the importance of having a comprehensive retirement plan.

The week’s events are designed to help consumers think about their long-term finan-cial goals and take the first steps toward developing a retirement plan.

A variety of retirement planning resources are available on the coalition’s website atwww.retireonyourterms.org to help consumers begin the process.

Those who need additional help are encouraged to consult a professional financialadviser.

The need to develop a retirement plan

(BPT) - Here’s a look at five common myths that could derail your expectations forincome when you retire.

Myth 1: You won’t be around long enough to go through your money

The reality: Life expectancies are at record highs in the United States, so it’s impor-tant to acknowledge that you or a family member may spend as many years in retire-ment as you did working. According to a 2010 report by the National Academy of SocialInsurance, for a 65-year-old married couple, there’s a 48 percent chance that one spousewill live to age 90.

To help stretch your money, consider incorporating immediate and deferred annu-ities into your planning. Created to provide guaranteed, lifelong income in retirement,they can also offer guaranteed growth while you’re saving for it, Gipson explains.

A long retirement extends your exposure to one of financial planning’s most subtleenemies: inflation. As you invest, it’s important to seek a mix of assets that guard againstthe declining value of the dollar and that is in line with your risk tolerance and goals.

Myth 2: You should get out of stocks when you retire

The reality: Stocks can help provide the long-term growth you need to make yourassets last longer since your retirement could span several decades.

You’ve probably heard you should reduce your investment risk as you age. But withtraditional pensions being replaced by 401(k) plans, you’re wholly responsible for mak-

ing asset allocation decisions. As Gipson puts it, “Everyone now has to be a pension fundmanager with their own money, and most people just aren’t equipped to do that.”

Gipson agrees with the notion of dampening portfolio risk at retirement, but thatdoesn’t mean getting rid of stocks entirely. Rather, regularly reviewing, and if necessary,rebalancing your portfolio based on your risk tolerance can lock in gains from strong-performing asset classes and allow you to buy those that underperform at cheaperprices.

Myth 3: You can just keep working

The reality: Counting on being able to work as long as you want is dangerous, Gipsonsays. Employers are feeling pressure to cut costs, and with high unemployment, findingwork is always a challenge. A disability also could force you to stop working prematurely.

Many people think they can simply work longer if they don’t have enough money toretire. According to a recent survey by the Employee Benefit Research Institute, 74per-cent of workers plan to work at least part time during their retirement years, and Schaf-fer notes working in retirement has become a necessity for many.

Good planning doesn’t rely on good fortune. Rather, your plan should both keep youfrom having to work the rest of your life and deal with the consequences of unexpectedsurprises that prevent you from earning a paycheck.

Myth 4: An inheritance will bail you out

The reality: You may be hoping for an inheritance as a potential retirement boost. Buthope is not a strategy, and counting on an inheritance can create big problems if it does-n’t come through.

Many people who expect to inherit money never do so, Gipson says. And even forthose who do inherit money, it’s often too little or comes too late to make a difference intheir retirement planning, he adds. The safer thing to do is to treat an inheritance as anunexpected bonus rather than relying on it.

Myth 5: Your taxes will be lower in retirement.

The reality: Big government deficits make future tax increases much more likely.Also, taking money out of retirementaccounts, such as traditional IRAs and401(k)s, creates taxable income that canpush you into higher tax brackets.

One suggestion Gipson offers is to con-sider converting part of your eligibleretirement assets to a Roth IRA.

By doing so, you’ll pay taxes now, butyou’ll create a tax-free pool of money to tapin retirement.

Diversifying with both Roth and tradi-tional IRAs is a possible way to handlefuture tax uncertainty.


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(NAPS)—While being active outdoors, even in cold weather, can be both fun andhealthful, it’s important to protect your body. For example, ears are particularly sensitiveespecially because they tend to be exposed to the elements—but there are ways you canprotect them.

The ProblemRough weather, particularly cold conditions, can present challenges. Ears cool down

very quickly because they have no protective fat tissue. The nerves in the ear canal rununprotected under the skin and may react with a strong pain impulse to changing tem-peratures. The risk of infection in the ears increases in cold conditions, as less blood iscirculated. Cold and wind can irritate the ear canal, which often causes pain, while waterin the ears can cause inflammation. Also, a cold head may cause cramped muscles in theneck region, which can lead to ear problems like tinnitus.

People with hearing instruments should be aware that cold conditions can cause thebattery to run out faster. In addition, condensation can occur inside the hearing instru-ment, causing an electronics failure.

Some AnswersFortunately, the experts at the nonprofit Hear the World Foundation, created by

Phonak, offer these ear care do’s and don’ts:

• Do keep your ears warm by wearing a hat, headband, earmuffs or a ski helmet.• Don’t put cotton wool in your ears to protect them from the wind. This can actually

cause inflammation in the ear canal. • Do dry your ear canal as well as possible after showering, swimming or using a

sauna. With care, you may be able to do this with a hair dryer. • Don’t neglect an ear infection. See your physician or an ENT specialist. Left untreat-

ed, an infection can get worse and cause serious damage.• Do stick to a healthy diet with plenty of exercise to stimulate blood circulation to

your ears.• Don’t use hot water to warm up cold ears. Gently massage them instead.

Tips For Hearing Instrument Users • Always have spare batteries available. If batteries get cold, you can warm them for

five minutes in your closed hand or in a pocket; do NOT use a lighter.• Never put hearing instruments on a heater. • Special drying containers, available from hearing care professionals, can prevent

damage caused by condensation.• Water-resistant hearing devices are less susceptible to damage from condensation.

Learn MoreFor further facts and tips on ear care, go to www.Phonak.com. At that site, you can

also take a free hearing test.

(NAPS)—While colon cancer is thethird-leading cancer killer in the UnitedStates, it is also a preventable and treatabledisease—if diagnosed in its early stages.

If you are turning 50, don’t put off coloncancer screening. While March is officiallyNa tional Colorectal Cancer AwarenessMonth, any time is a good time to learnthe facts about colon cancer prevention.

Silent KillerColon cancer, also known as colorectal

cancer, takes the lives of more than 50,000Americans each year. It’s a silent killerbecause often there are no symptoms untilit is too late to treat. Age is the singlelargest risk factor for the disease. Mostcolon cancers arise from precancerousgrowths in the colon called polyps, whichcan be found during a screening exam andremoved before they turn into cancer.

Screening Saves LivesThe American Society for Gastrointesti-

nal Endoscopy (ASGE), representing the experts in colon cancer screening, recom-mends screening begin at age 50. A person at average risk with normal screeningresults won’t need another exam for 10 years. If polyps or cancer is found, screeningintervals should be more frequent. Colon cancer runs in families, so screening shouldbegin sooner if there is a family history of polyps or colon cancer or if other risk factorsare present. Some experts suggest African-Americans should begin screening at age 45.

Screening methods include colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, stool blood tests such asfecal occult blood test (FOBT) or fecal immu nochemical test (FIT), stool DNA, CTcolonography (virtual colonos copy) and barium enema.

ColonoscopyColonoscopy is considered the preferred screening method be cause it is a preventive

exam: It is the only test that both finds and removes precancerous polyps during thesame exam. With other methods, if a polyp or other abnormality is found, the test mustoften be followed by a colonoscopy. Colonoscopy is a safe, effective and well-toleratedexam.

“ASGE encourages patients to get screened at intervals recommended by their doc-tor, to find a qualified endoscopist for their colonoscopy who has had specialized trainingin the procedure, and to carefully follow preparation instructions to ensure that the colonis thoroughly cleaned so that no polyps or cancers are missed during the procedure,”said ASGE President Thomas M. Deas, Jr., MD, MMM, FASGE. “A quality colonoscopyand appropriate follow-up exams save lives.”

Colon Cancer FactsBegin screening at age 50; family history/other risk factors—screen before age 50;

colonoscopy finds and removes polyps before they turn into cancer; highly treatable ifcaught early; bleeding or unexplained abdominal pain? Talk to your doctor immediately.

Learn MoreFind more information on colon cancer prevention, including where to find a doctor,

at www.screen4coloncancer.org.

Keeping your ears safe Colon cancer screening


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(NAPS)—Knowing a little about strokemay help you to reduce disability or save alife.

Consider what happened to Juaquin“Hawk” Hawkins, a professional basketballplayer, 34 years-old and in top physicalcondition. He had a stroke—and didn’trecognize the warning signs, nor did thepeople around him.

According to the American StrokeAssociation, a division of the AmericanHeart Association, only two out of threeAmericans know at least one of the strokewarning signs. Yet stroke is the No. 4killer for all Americans and the No. 1 pre-ventable cause of disability.

That’s why the American Stroke Asso-ciation’s Together to End Stroke initiative,which is nationally sponsored by globalmedical products company Covidien, ishelping Americans recognize the strokewarning signs in an easy way. Just remem-ber F.A.S.T. and the symptoms that comeon suddenly:

F - Face droopingA - Arm weaknessS - Speech difficultyT - Time to call 9-1-1.

When you recognize a stroke and act fast by calling 9-1-1, you have a greater chanceof getting to an appropriate hospital quickly and improving the outcome.

“Stroke can happen to anyone at any time and it is largely preventable, treatable andbeatable,” says Hawkins. “The American Stroke Association can help to empower you toprevent stroke. When you learn to prevent stroke, you improve the outlook for yourfuture and live a healthier lifestyle.”

According to the American Stroke Association, the actions you take to prevent strokecan also help you to prevent heart disease. For more information about stroke and acomplete list of the warning signs, visit www.stroke association.org/warningsigns.

Be smart about a stroke

When you recognize a stroke andact fast, you have a greater chanceof improving the outcome, as bas-ketball star Juaquin “Hawk”Hawkins discovered.


SALEM Behind Charter Bank

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25 Years Experience!

Dear Evelyn, I finally made it in to see you after various reminder phone calls from you and me resisting each on e. I should have known then that you are a dedicated woman, dedicated to showing people just how much they are missing by not being able to hear well. I was skeptical but that soon left me when you showed me how much hearing loss I really had. You opened up a whole new world to me that I didn’t even know I was missing. Not to ment ion afterwards, the day I came in to get my new hearing aids adjusted when I discovered I was missing my hearing aid. I left them in my truck at home and that day I rode my bike to the appointment. How embarrassing that was! But all kidding aside, anybody who has a hard time hearing should definitely give Evelyn a visit. She will make you feel right at home and you will feel so much better about yourself when you don’t have to say Huh!! anymore. Thank you Evelyn, God loves you and so do I.

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Here are some signs to look for if you suspect yourloved one is abusing prescription medication:

• How much are they taking? If they used to take 1 or2 a day, and now taking 4 a day or 6 a day, that's a red flag.

• Has their behavior or mood changed? Are they argu-mentative, sullen, withdrawn or anxious?

• Are they giving excuses as to why they need thepills?

• Do they ever express remorse or concern about tak-ing pills?

• Do they have a "purse or pocket supply" in case ofemergency?

• Have they ever been treated by a physician or hospi-tal for excessive use of pills?

• Have they ever been treated for alcohol or drugabuse – even earlier in life?

• Have they changed doctors or drug stores?

• Have they received the same pill from two or morephysicians or druggists at approximately the same time?

• Do they become annoyed or uncomfortable whenothers talk about their use of medications?

• Do they ever sneak or hide pills?

• Do they watch the clock, impatiently waiting theirnext dose?

Signs for prescription addiction among the elderly


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