Winter/Spring 2008

Health habits can be hard to change and tough to maintain. But often the hardest part is getting started! Preferred Care health education programs and support services can help you get started and keep you on the road to taking charge of your health.

Classes are FREE or discounted to Preferred Care members. Some programs are open to non-members for a fee.  Space is limited, so register today to reserve your spot!

Health and Wellness

Cataract Surgery: Turning Back the Hands of Time

Ever tried looking through a dirty windshield?  That’s what it is like to have a cataract.  Today, as never before, there are surgical techniques and a variety of lenses to help improve your vision!  Dr. Lindahl will present a brief history of cataract surgery, emphasizing the modern era of intraocular lens implants.  Learn some eye anatomy as it relates to how cataract patients in the new millennium can decrease their dependence on glasses with the latest techniques and technological advancements. 

Dr. Lindahl, a Rochester native and graduate of the University Of Rochester School Of Medicine, is a fellowship trained corneal surgeon, specializing in Cataract, LASIK and Corneal Surgery.  Sr. Lindahl is the owner of Rochester Eye and Laser Center.

Sole Survivor

“Sole Survivor” is a series of programs focusing on overall foot care and problem prevention. 

Let's Get Walking

Presenter:  Ellen Brunner, Fleet Feet Sports

Walking is an easy and inexpensive form of exercise and has many health benefits.  If you are thinking about walking as part of your exercise regime, this program will:

• Teach you how to start a walking program to meet your specific needs
• Give you pointers as to how to properly care for your feet
• Teach you how to select proper footwear for walking
• Give you tips for starting to exercise
  

Common Foot Disorders and Conditions

Presenter:  Massimo Pietrantoni, D.P.M., F.A.C.F.A.S.

At some point in our lives, most people will have some problem with their feet that will require care from a podiatrist.  Some problems can be avoided by wearing proper footwear and regularly checking your feet.  In addition to learning about proper foot care, this program will also cover:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Heel/Arch pain
• Neuroma
• Skin and nail disorders
• Orthotics
• ESWT (Extra Corporeal Shock Wave Therapy)

I Can Cope Series

I Can Cope® is a series of programs designed to support adults with cancer, their family members, and friends.

Understanding Your Cancer Treatments

Participants will learn the goals and methods of current cancer treatments. Treatments goals may be for -cure, remission or management or control of the disease.  An overview of treatments will be discussed as well as discussing the differences between conventional, alternative and investigational therapies. The patient’s role in decision making will also be reviewed. This series is brought to you by Preferred Care in partnership with the American Cancer Society.

Managing Effects of Illness and Treatment

This class concentrates on the health challenges to wellness imposed by cancer. It is an overview of common disease and treatment-related problems and possible strategies, including pain management and nutritional interventions. The information presented is to help participants begin building a repertoire of self-care techniques. This series is brought to you by Preferred Care in partnership with the American Cancer Society.

Relieving Cancer Pain

This class concentrates on the health challenges to wellness imposed by cancer. It is an overview of common disease and treatment-related problems and possible strategies, including pain management and nutritional interventions. The information presented is to help participants begin building a repertoire of self-care techniques. This series is brought to you by Preferred Care in partnership with the American Cancer Society.

Relieving Cancer-Related Fatigue

This class concentrates on the health challenges to wellness imposed by cancer. It is an overview of common disease and treatment-related problems and possible strategies, including pain management and nutritional interventions. The information presented is to help participants begin building a repertoire of self-care techniques. This series is brought to you by Preferred Care in partnership with the American Cancer Society.

Nutrition During Cancer Treatments

Eating well and being physically active are key ingredients of optimal health and contribute to the well-being of individuals with cancer. This class presents basic nutrition information and strategies for participants to develop an individualized healthy eating plan. This series is brought to you in partnership with the American Cancer Society and Preferred Care Health Educator and Registered Dietitian, Susan Figaro Grace, MSED, RD.

Nurtrition After Cancer Treatments

Eating well and being physically active are key ingredients of optimal health and contribute to the well-being of cancer survivors. This class presents the importance of setting and achieving life-long goals for a healthy weight, nutritious diet, and physically active lifestyle, especially after a cancer diagnosis. Participants will be encouraged to set an individualized nutrition and activity goal to strive for. This series is brought to you in partnership with the American Cancer Society and Preferred Care Health Educator and Registered Dietitian, Susan Figaro Grace, MSED, RD.

Macular Degeneration

Age related macular degeneration is the leading cause of visual impairment for seniors.  Katherine White a Doctor of Optometry and Managing Director of Low Vision Services, along with the staff at ABVI Goodwill will address all you need to know on Macular Degeneration.  This program will cover how macular degeneration affects one’s vision, the different types (wet, dry, and combination), causes and risk factors and the current treatments.

Vision Rehabilitation

Katherine White a Doctor of Optometry and Managing Director of Low Vision Services, along with Sharon Schwalm a certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapist of ABVI Goodwill will address vision rehabilitation, identifying needs, setting goals, and low vision evaluation.  This seminar will cover what adaptive technology is available, non-optical solutions, changes to make to your home, and supportive services available in your area. 

Living with Diabetic Retinopathy

Katherine White, a Doctor of Optometry and Managing Director of Low Vision Services and Sharon Schwalm, a certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapist at ABVI-Goodwill will present a class on Diabetic Retinopathy:  A review of causes and risk factors, symptoms and detection, treatments and options for vision rehabilitation. 

Cataract Surgery:  Turning Back the Hands of Time

Ever tried looking through a dirty windshield?  That’s what it is like to have a cataract.  Today, as never before, there are surgical techniques and a variety of lenses to help improve your vision!  Dr. Kenneth Lindahl will present a brief history of cataract surgery, emphasizing the modern era of intraocular lens implants.  Learn some eye anatomy as it relates to how cataract patients in the new millennium can decrease their dependence on glasses with the latest techniques and technological advancements. 

Dr. Lindahl, a Rochester native and graduate of the University Of Rochester School Of Medicine, is a fellowship trained corneal surgeon, specializing in Cataract, LASIK and Corneal Surgery.  Dr. Lindahl is the owner of Rochester Eye and Laser Center.

Pain and Sleep:  Night Time Partners

Would you like to sleep like a baby again?  Come and learn the behaviors that promote a sound and restful night’s sleep.  It will change your life!  If you have Fibromyalgia, Arthritis or chronic pain, this class is for you! Presented by Health Educator Barbara Caccia, BS ED

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a silent disease until it is complicated by a fragility fracture - fractures that can occur in the absence of or following minimal trauma. However, osteoporosis can be prevented, diagnosed and treated before any fracture occurs.

Dr. Stephen Kates, a Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon and Director of the Geriatric Fracture Center at Highland Hospital will talk about the causes, treatments and updates on Osteoporosis.

Alignment:  Understanding More about Chiropractic Medicine

Dr. Charles Goshorn, Doctor of Chiropractic and Certified Chiropractic Sports Practitioner, will present information on why alignment is important, how it affects your health, and what strategies and techniques can be used to improve your alignment.

Skills for Successful Living with Type 2 Diabetes

There are 20.8 million people in the United States, or 7% of the population, who have diabetes, with Type 2 diabetes being the most common form. Finding out you have diabetes is scary. Even though Type 2 diabetes is serious, people with diabetes can live long, healthy, happy lives. This course provides skills and support to live a healthy life with type 2 diabetes.  Learn what’s new in diabetes management and greater eating freedom, and develop personal eating and activity plans.  Workbook included.  Presented by Certified Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Educator, Celia Topping.

Romancing the Stones

Kidney stones can affect both men and women at any age.  Kidney stones form when a change occurs in the normal balance of water, salts, minerals, and other things found in urine. The most common cause of kidney stones is not drinking enough water and may also be an inherited disease.  Dr. Erdal Erturk, Urologist and Specialist in kidney disease and Director of Kidney Stone Treatment Center at Strong Memorial Hospital will present on the medical treatment and aspects and prevention of kidney stones disease.

How to Keep Your Kidneys Strong

Your Kidneys are the master Chemists of your body!  This class is intended for people with kidney disease and their families.  It offers basic information about kidney disease - causes, symptoms, and tests - along with tools to reduce risk factors, and prevent or slow the progression of kidney disease. Presented by the National Kidney Foundation of Upstate NY.

Menopause:  Tips for the Transition

Understand the process from perimenopause to menopause.  Identify the obvious and not so obvious symptoms and explore coping strategies to get you through this change.  Presented by Marie Warda, RN, Associate Director Health Promotion.

Brain Wellness Strategies

This workshop explores normal aging brain changes, survey possible risk factors, for cognitive decline and discusses protective factors to assist with preventing cognitive decline. Presented by the Alzheimer’s Association.

Gender Differences in Strokes

A stroke occurs when the blood vessel in the brain is blocked or bursts.  Brain damage can begin within minutes so it is important to know the symptoms of stroke and act fast.  Dr. Heidi Schwarz, Cheif of Neurology and Director of the Stroke Center at Highland Hospital, will talk about the incidence and consequences of stroke and what you can do to take preventive measures.

Nutrition Series

Presented by Registered Nurse and Certified Lifestyle Counselor, Maria Justice.

Reading and Understanding Food Labels

Do you ever wonder what all those ingredients on food labels mean?  What a good fat vs. a bad fat is?  Maria Justice, Registered Nurse and Certified Lifestyle Counselor will show you how to read food labels, and how to evaluate the health benefit of products you choose to eat.  Participants should bring in label(s) of your favorite foods.

Fitting in the Fiber

Learn how important fiber is to your diet, what fiber consists of and how to find it in the foods you eat.  Participants will receive the top ten fiber-filled fruits and vegetables.

Presented by Registered Nurse and Certified Lifestyle Counselor, Maria Justice.

Taking Salt Out

In this class you will learn about salt, how it relates to Osteoporosis and Hypertension and what some of your salt habits are.  Learn some simple techniques to reduce salt in your diet and still enjoy the foods you love. Presented by Registered Nurse and Certified Lifestyle Counselor, Maria Justice.

Brain Food:  Food That Can Increase Memory Power

Are there days when you feel “brain dead”.  This class will cover the importance of healthy foods to improve your memory.  Come and learn some simple techniques that you can practice and use daily. Presented by Registered Nurse and Certified Lifestyle Counselor, Maria Justice.

Take Three Deep Breaths Series

This two part “experiential” series will explore how breathing techniques can help you connect with your mind, body, and breathe.

Take Three Deep Breaths - Relaxation Breathing Techniques

Explore and learn how the breath can heal, re-energize, relax, refresh and bring a sense of calm to your life.  Wear loose and comfortable clothing.  Presented by Preferred Care Health Educator, Cheryl Minchella.  Limit: 20 Students

Take Three Deep Breaths - Mindful Meditation

Quieting the mind and body can prove to be challenging as we live our hectic lives.  Learn the basics of mindful meditation for a greater sense of calm and relaxation for your body and mind. Presented by Preferred Care Health Educator, Cheryl Minchella Limit: 20 Students

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Out Your Door and Beyond

AARP Driver Safety Program

AARP has developed an eight-hour classroom refresher to help drivers age 50 and older to improve their skills and prevent accidents.  The class covers physical changes that occur in vision, hearing, and reaction time as we age, and provides useful driving safety tips for handling these changes.  The fee for the course is $10 (check or money order).  Contact your insurance agent to see if you are eligible for an insurance discount.  Preferred Care members may be eligible to use HealthDollarssm toward this program.  Limit 28 participants.

Building Healthy Finances

Building Healthy Finances is a workshop designed to provide direction and information about the most important financial matters. Addressing the topics of goal setting, budgeting, saving, wise spending, and money management, this workshop will help anyone improve their financial knowledge and be more empowered to take control of this area of their life. Each registrant will also receive handouts and materials that will give them the tools necessary to get started. Presented by Chad Rieflin, Director of Credit Education Bureau, Credit Bureau of Rochester.

Fraud, Scams and Identity Theft

This workshop will cover the most common scams and fraudulent schemes that can impact you. Jim Lynd, Coordinator of Lifespan’s Scam Prevention Service will present on home improvement scams, telemarketing, lottery scams, identity theft, credit card and investment fraud and how to take preventative measures to protect yourself.

Journaling:  Where do I Begin?

Journaling is a great way to manage stress, better understand yourself, and catalog your life’s events.  Don’t know where to begin?  This workshop will provide the “tools” to inspire and motivate you to embark on your journaling journey.  Topics include the reasons for keeping a journal, themes of journals and writing “rules”.  Writing exercises will be provided to get you started!  Bring your favorite writing instrument and a journal.

Limit:  15 students

Advance Directives

Many people have strong feelings about the kind of medical care they would like to receive or refuse in certain circumstances. An advance directive allows you to clearly state your feelings to your doctors, families, and loved ones and it can be the most important pieces of paper in your life.  This class will provide you with an outline for thinking about these issues and providing guidelines, as well as, helping you to understand the medical, legal and personal choices you may face in the future. Presented by Preferred Care Health Educator Suzanne Feather.

The Story of My Life:  Beginning to Write Your Memoir

Your life story is unique!  If you have considered “getting it down on paper”, this workshop is for you.  Writing your memoir is a gift to yourself and others, and honors your life.  Writing exercises and “prompts” will be provided to get you started and keep you motivated to write about your life.  Bring your favorite writing instrument and a journal or notebook.

Limit:  15 students

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Physical Fitness

Body in Motion

A fun and challenging physical activity program focusing on joint range of motion, muscle strength and endurance, flexibility, agility, balance and coordination, and lots of camaraderie!

NEW!   Safe Stepping Balance and Strength Training

Join this on-going weekly exercise class at any time to help reduce your risk of falling. The class will focus on balance and strength-building exercises combined with a brief discussion of strategies to reduce falls.  Members should dress in comfortable clothing and wear sneakers. It is always recommended to discuss any exercise class with your health care provider prior to beginning the class.

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Gentle Yoga For Seniorssm

Gentle Yoga For Seniorssm offers an individualized, safe and effective approach to the time-honored practice of Yoga. The program includes peaceful strength exercises, stretching and plenty of relaxation. You can practice while sitting in a chair, or if you prefer to enhance your practice, bring a yoga mat or beach towel.

A few of the many benefits you can enjoy through the practice of yoga are:

• Improved endurance, strength and flexibility
• Boosted energy level
• Enhanced joint health and range of motion
• Deep relaxation and stress release
• Renewed zest for living

Qi Gong

A series of gentle exercises to promote qi (energy) flow in the body. Qi Gong can improve posture, balance and flexibility as well as functions of the respiratory and digestive systems. Emotional benefits include calming the mind and stress relief.

SilverSneakers® - Cardio Circuit

Combine fun with fitness to increase your cardiovascular and muscular endurance power with a standing circuit workout. Upper body strength work using hand-held weights, elastic tubing with handles, and a ball is alternated with low-impact aerobic choreography. A chair is offered for support, head to toe stretching, and complete relaxation in a comfortable position.

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SilverSneakers® - Muscular Strength & Range of Movement

Have fun and move to the music through a variety of exercises designed to increase muscular strength, range of movement and activity for daily living skills. Hand-held weights, elastic tubing with handles and a ball are offered for resistance; and a chair is used for seated and/or tanding support.

SilverSneakers® YogaStretch

YogaStretch will move your whole body through a complete series of seated and standing yoga poses. Chair support is offered to safely perform a variety of postures designed to increase flexibility, balance and range of movement. Restorative breathing exercises and a final relaxation will promote stress reduction and mental clarity.

Tai Chi for Arthritis

For centuries, the Chinese have used Ta'i Chi is an effective treatment for arthritis. This 12-movement Tai Chi is a gentle, relaxing exercise program that is simple to follow and easy to learn. Medical studies show Ta'i Chi to be an effective for increasing your flexibility, muscle trength, lung capacity and heart function. It has added  benefits for relaxation, balance posture and immunity to improve your quality of life.

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Yoga

Take a break from stress with yoga. Yoga helps calm the nervous system and builds flexibility and strength. In this course, you will learn classic yoga postures, breathwork and relaxation. No prior experience needed; people with all levels of fitness are welcome. Wear loose, comfortable clothes and bring a mat and pillow. Space is limited! Register Today!

Qi Gong Meditations

A series of gentle exercises to improve sense of well being, increase physical energy levels, increase the awareness of mind and body integration and provides an increased synergistic balance in the mental, physical, and emotional relationship.  Emotional benefits include calming the mind and stress relief.  Space is limited- Register Today!

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Last updated:  December 10, 2007