Visiting Angels - February 2021

Visiting Angels - February 2021

February 2021

5274 Scotts Valley Dr., #102 Scotts Valley, CA 95066 831-430-0616 www.VisitingAngels.com/CentralCoast 229 Reindollar Ave., Suite E Marina, CA 93933 831-392-0876

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Why It’s Important to Recognize and Combat Loneliness Creating Companionship

Memories can be wonderful things. They can transport us back to a time when we were really happy or a moment that has long since become family lore. For many, the memories of how their loved ones met are treasured stories passed down through the generations. Personally, I hold my grandparents’ story very dear. One year, I happened to be visiting my grandma on Valentine’s Day and curiosity struck me.

was so happy as she read me phrases like, “I think you are the prettiest girl I have ever seen” and other sweet words Grandpa had written to her. Those love letters tied up in a ribbon and stashed away in a box in her room were treasured memories she chose to share with me. I reveled in “hearing” my grandpa’s voice again, even if they were words he had written to her so long ago. Every Valentine’s Day, I think back to that moment. It serves as a great reminder of the power of memories, but it also reminds me just how lonesome this holiday — and ultimately, this pandemic — can be for older adults who have been widowed or cannot see their loved ones. Winter months without a pandemic can feel isolating, leading a lot of seniors to become depressed. The focus on love and relationships can increase that sense of loneliness, and that can be detrimental to a person’s health. (To learn more, check out our article on Page 3.) This year, loneliness has become exacerbated. Social distancing has become a vital part of the fight against COVID-19, but it has also had a detrimental effect on older adults who commonly live alone and in a population that is vulnerable to this

virus. This isn’t lost on us at Visiting Angels, especially as Valentine’s Day approaches. The connections we create are more than just memories; they are vital to our health and well-being, and we cannot forget that. Part of what I love so much about Visiting Angels is how our caregivers are able to help alleviate loneliness. Yes, we go in and help with meal prep, light housekeeping, or driving to doctor’s appointments, but the most important service we offer our seniors is social interaction and companionship. Having someone around to spend time with, to listen to their stories, and to just talk with over lunch can foster human connection that we all need and crave. Our job is about so much more than the services we provide. It’s about what we can do to bring happiness to an older adult’s life. We’re honored to provide that during this pandemic and to have been doing it for years. If you’re experiencing loneliness, or know an older adult who may be too isolated, please don’t hesitate to contact our team. Remember: You are not alone.

“How did you and Grandpa meet?” I asked her.

Grandma smiled. She started telling me about how my grandpa was her best friend’s brother and that they had met in school. At that point, she paused. Getting up, she went into her room and returned with a box. She pulled out stacks of old papers tied up with pretty ribbon, and after untying it, she carefully unfolded one of the papers and started reading. My grandma’s whole demeanor changed. She was reading the words of the man she fell in love with when she was 18 years old, the man who she had built a life with for well over 65 years until he passed away. Grandma

Cindy Saunders, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

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THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH Could Be the Key to the COVID-19 Vaccine

Vaccines have been the light at the end of this long, dark tunnel we call the COVID-19 pandemic, but scientists don’t yet have a full picture of the virus or its treatments. In an effort to better understand the coronavirus, researchers are looking at how medical professionals can better treat our most vulnerable populations or prevent them from ever contracting COVID-19. Experts have long feared that a COVID-19 vaccine may not help the older adults who need it most, as these individuals are often more at risk of contracting the disease and having a weakened immune system. However, some researchers hypothesize that anti-aging medications may boost the effectiveness of the vaccine for older adults, and there are some promising results from early studies. One study published in Nature found that a drug that limited the creation of the protein mTOR lengthened the lifespan of fruit flies and mice. Anti-aging expert Jan Mannick explains that researchers think mTOR may contribute to failing immune systems in humans, so blocking the production of this protein could drastically improve the success rate of a COVID-19 vaccine in older adults.

As promising as these results and many other studies are, medical experts are quick to remind the public that more research is needed to understand the possible link between anti-aging medications and their effects on the efficacy of a COVID-19 vaccine in older adults. These medications include treatments that indirectly affect aging like some diabetes medication. The good news is that you don’t have to wait for researchers to find a “miracle pill” to boost your immunity. Incorporate natural remedies into your routine

instead! Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and other foods rich in vitamin D that boost your immune system — like salmon, mushrooms, and greens — and remember to drink plenty of water. While you’re at it, wear sunscreen to prevent the sun from aging your skin prematurely and increasing your chance of having other health issues. It’s important to stay optimistic and do what we can with what we know now while researchers work toward an effective vaccine.

HERE ARE 3 WAYS TO PROTECT YOURSELF RIGHT NOW Money Scams Are Skyrocketing

No one from any federal agency will ever call you out of the blue. Anyone claiming to have a cure or pretending to be in desperate need of money is also trying to scam you. Never say a word back to them. Cut them off and go about your day. 2. Sign up for Informed Delivery by USPS. This free service is a great way to monitor your incoming mail. Every morning, USPS sends you an email with scanned images of the day’s mail (this doesn’t usually include larger parcels). When you pick up your mail later in the day, you can verify if anything is missing. Scammers may prefer phone calls, but mail thieves are still very much on the prowl. 3. Sign up for an identity protection and fraud detection service. You never know who might end up with your personal information, but you can take steps to keep it safe. There are several services, like LifeLock, Identity Guard, and Intelius Identity Project, that offer comprehensive identify protection. They monitor credit cards, addresses, phone numbers, bank accounts, and more with the purpose of scoping out unusual or fraudulent behavior. Many services can be customized to fit your specific needs.

For the past year, scammers have been working full time to fleece people. As a result of COVID-19, federal financial relief efforts, and state-level relief efforts, scammers have found a new way to get into their victims’ pockets. Now, they’re using COVID-19 again, this time with the “vaccine scam.” Through this scam, they’ll sign you up for the COVID-19 vaccine in exchange for a fee. They are also using variations of the grandparent scam, in which scammers pretend to be a family member in trouble (this time, they have COVID-19 or have lost their job) and they need money. Scammers make phone calls, send text messages, and craft phishing emails, hoping you’ll take the bait.

How can you protect yourself from these financial scams and more? Try these three different ways!

1. Shut them down. If you get a call from a scammer, hang up immediately (better yet, don’t answer unknown callers at all). At the same time, delete scam texts or emails the second you see them. If you get a call, text, or email from someone claiming to be with the government or a government agency, it’s a scammer.

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Why Is Isolation So Dangerous? WE CAN HELP PREVENT THE HEALTH EFFECTS OF LONELINESS

Humans are social creatures. We form “packs” by establishing friendships or building families. We send cards around the holidays, celebrate our lives at birthday parties, and share in the humor of a great TV show or movie. Interaction is a basic component of survival and one that is often missing or overlooked for older adults. Interaction can be difficult for older adults, especially during COVID-19. Limited mobility, health concerns, limited funds, the death of loved ones due to age, and the exhaustion that can come with aging can all limit an older adult’s ability to interact with others. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has identified loneliness and social isolation as significant health risks to older adults. In particular, older adults who experience isolation have an increased risk of premature death and

are 50% more likely to get dementia. It also worsens chronic conditions, such as heart disease and obesity. Mental wellness also decreases when loneliness and social isolation are present. However, we can fight this! Your loved ones don’t have to spend their days feeling lonely. Here are the ways we can combat loneliness. 1. Do Video Chats: Technology has made the world smaller than ever before, so encourage your loved one to hop on a video call with their grandchildren, bridge group, knitting circle, or Bible study group! Our angels can help with the tech and set up the call, so all they have to do is spend time with those they love. 2. Send Snail Mail: If technology isn’t their thing, the U.S. Postal Service will work great, too. Send letters, postcards,

or greeting cards to loved ones, old friends, military service members, and others who could be great pen pals. They will look forward to the mail every day! 3. Schedule Check-Ins: Your loved ones would be thrilled to hear from their family on a regular basis. Set up a schedule to connect with your loved ones so they don’t go a day without a call or letter from someone they know and love. Loneliness is common in older adults, but it doesn’t have to be the norm. If we can do more to help you combat your loved one’s loneliness, please call us today!

ZUCCHINI NOODLES WITH TURKEY BOLOGNESE

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If you love spaghetti, you’ll love these zucchini noodles!

Directions 1. In a large sauté pan over medium- low heat, warm 2 tbsp olive oil. 2. Add garlic and onions and stir constantly until garlic is golden and onions are translucent. 3. Increase heat to medium and add ground turkey, break apart, and cook thoroughly. 4. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, salt, pepper, and sugar. Reduce heat to low. Stir occasionally. Ingredients • 3 tbsp olive oil, divided • 1 tbsp garlic, minced • 1/2 cup onions, diced small • 1 lb ground turkey • 1 28-oz can crushed tomatoes

• 2 tbsp tomato paste • 1 tsp salt • 1/2 tsp pepper • 2 tsp sugar • 3 medium zucchini • Parmesan cheese, for garnish

5. Using a spiralizer, mandolin, or vegetable peeler, cut the zucchini into noodles. 6. In another large sauté pan over medium-low heat, add remaining olive oil and zucchini noodles, tossing constantly for 2 minutes until slightly wilted. 7. Plate the zucchini noodles, top with the turkey Bolognese, and garnish with Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Inspired by JustATaste.com

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Scotts Valley Office Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday–Friday

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Inside

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The Value of Companionship

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Anti-Aging Medication and the COVID-19 Vaccine Protect Yourself From COVID-19 Scams!

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Stay Connected: It’s Good for Your Health! Zucchini Noodles With Turkey Bolognese

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New Ways to Experience Local Spots

Become a Tourist

Without Leaving Your Hometown souvenirs from your “trip.” While you’re there, plan your next adventure for when it’s safe to go inside restaurants and attend events again! Natural Bridges State Park Where: Santa Cruz When: All year long! Website: Parks.CA.gov Check out the winter home of monarch butterflies before they leave our region this spring and summer! Natural Bridges State Park is a winter refuge site for monarch butterflies, and the park has a dedicated center for the orange and black winged creatures. Enjoy their delicate dances or check out the beach, where you’re sure to see flocks of birds perched on the only natural arch left in the park. Be sure to bring your camera! You’re going to want to snap some photos.

As a local, you may know this region better than any tourist, but have you really explored all it has to offer? Live like a tourist this February and check out these local spots! Note: While we have chosen to feature places with COVID-19 protocols, please check with each establishment for rules, hours of operation changes, and more. The Mystery Spot Where: 465 Mystery Spot Road, Santa Cruz When: All year long! Website: MysterySpot.com There’s a legend just outside of Santa Cruz, California, that has fascinated tourists, hikers, and locals alike for generations. The Mystery Spot was first discovered in 1939 by local surveyors who were amazed

to find that this particular area of the redwood forests didn’t obey the natural laws of physics. In 1940, the official tourist attraction was opened, and today, participants of all ages can take part in its mind-bending antics. A visit to the spot can include a guided tour down the trail, too! Check it out and be amazed.

Old Fisherman’s Wharf Where: Monterey When: All year long! Website: MontereyWharf.com

If you’ve lived in our region for an extended period, you’ve likely been to the wharf, but have you experienced all that it has to offer? Take a walk along the wharf and find new shops or restaurants you may have never visited before. Learn more about the history of Monterey at the Custom House. You can even buy a few

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