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Senior News
THE AREA AGENCY ON AGING OF SOMERSET COUNTY●FEBRUARY 2021
Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program
Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program claimants now have the option to submit program
applications online with the Department of Revenue's myPATH system. Filing online
leads to fast processing, easy direct deposit options and automatic calculators that
will help you apply for your rebate. Visit mypath.pa.gov to file your application.
The rebate program benefits eligible Pennsylvanians age 65 and older; widows and
widowers age 50 and older; and people with disabilities age 18 and older. The income
limit is $35,000 a year for homeowners and $15,000 annually for renters, and half of
Social Security income is excluded. Spouses, personal representatives or estates
may also file rebate claims on behalf of claimants who lived at least one day in
2020 and meet all other eligibility criteria.
The maximum standard rebate is $650, but supplemental rebates for qualifying home-
owners can boost rebates to $975. The Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program is one of
five programs supported by the Pennsylvania Lottery. Since the program’s 1971 in-
ception, older and disabled adults have received more than $6.9 billion in property tax
and rent relief. The rebate program also receives funding from slots gaming.
Homeowners receive:
Income Maximum Rebate
$0 to $8,000 $650
$8,001 to $15,000 $500
$15,001 to $18,000 $300
$18,001 to $35,000 $250
Applications must be postmarked by June 30. The PA1000 booklet, used to apply for
rebates, is available in late February at www.revenue.pa.gov or by calling, toll-free,
1-888-222-9190. Once you qualify for your first rebate, the department will automati-
cally send you an application the next year unless you prepared and filed your claim
using computer software. If you used software for a rent rebate, the department will
send you a copy of the rent certificate for the next year to complete and provide with
your software completed claim form. Rebate checks are mailed beginning July 1.
Your local Somerset County Senior Center will also have PA1000 books available.
h ps://www.revenue.pa.gov/GeneralTaxInforma on/PropertyTaxRentRebateProgram
h ps://www.revenue.pa.gov/FormsandPublica ons/FormsforIndividuals/PTRR/Documents/rev-573.pdf
OMBUDSMAN PROGRAM
WHAT IS THE LONG-TERM CARE OMBUDSMAN?
Under the Federal Older Americans Act every state is required to have an Om-
budsman Program that addresses complaints and advocates for improvements
in the long-term care system.
WHAT DOES THE OMBUDSMAN PROGRAM DO?
The Ombudsman Program Coordinator and a group of volunteers advocates for
residents of nursing homes, board and care homes, assisted living facilities
and other similar adult care facilities. Ombudsmen work to resolve problems
individual residents and effect change at the local, state, and national levels to
improve quality of care.
Ombudsman responsibilities include:
Educating residents, their family, and facility staff about residents’ rights and
good care practices;
Ensuring residents have regular and timely access to Ombudsman services;
We are always seeking Ombudsman volunteers;
Providing technical support for the development of resident and family coun-
cils;
Advocating for changes to improve residents’ quality of life and care;
Providing information to the public regarding long-term care facilities and
services, residents’ rights, and legislative and policy issues;
Representing resident interests before governmental agencies;
Seeking legal, administrative and other remedies to protect residents.
Call your Ombudsman if you need help to resolve a problem. We are trained to
protect your rights, investigate and help resolve problems. Somerset County
Ombudsman 814-483-6068.
2 Senior News February 2021
Seven Steps to Prevent Cancer
Nearly 1,736,000 Americans will be diagnosed with cancer this year and more than 606,800 will die.
However, research shows that up to 50% of cancer cases and about 50% of cancer deaths are prevent-
able with the knowledge we have today. Prevention and early detection are more important than ever —
and are proven, effective strategies to lower health care costs.
You make choices every day that affect your health. Follow our Seven Steps to Prevent Cancer to reduce
your risk.
DON’T USE TOBACCO
The use of tobacco products has been linked to many types of cancer, including lung, colorectal, breast,
throat, cervical, bladder, mouth and esophageal. It’s never too late to quit. About 90 percent of all lung
cancer is related to smoking. Non-smokers who are exposed to secondhand smoke are also at risk for
lung cancer and other respiratory conditions.
PROTECT YOUR SKIN FROM THE SUN
Skin cancer is the most common and most preventable cancer in the United States. More than 96,400
people are diagnosed with melanoma annually. Exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet radiation causes most
skin cancer. Be sure to use adequate sun protection year-round. Never use indoor tanning beds.
EAT A HEALTHY DIET
Eat lots of fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains. Limit red meat and cut out processed meats. For
healthy recipe ideas, visit our blog. It is also important to limit alcohol consumption because alcohol can
increase your risk for liver, colorectal and breast cancers. If you drink alcohol, have no more than two
drinks a day if you are a man or one drink a day if you are a woman.
MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT AND BE PHYSICALLY ACTIVE
Getting at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day can make a big difference in your general
health and well-being. Inactivity and obesity have been linked to breast and colorectal cancer, and there
is also some evidence of a link to lung and pancreatic cancer. Add exercise to your routine to reduce
stress, increase energy, boost your immune system, control your weight and reduce your risk for cancer.
PRACTICE SAFE SEX AND AVOID RISKY BEHAVIORS
Many strains of the human papillomavirus, also known as HPV, are spread through skin to skin contact
during vaginal, anal and oral sex. High-risk strains of HPV have increasingly been found to cause many
types of cancer. The Hepatitis B virus (HBV) can also be spread from person to person through unpro-
tected sex. It can cause long-term liver infections that can increase a person’s chance of developing liv-
er cancer.
GET IMMUNIZED (HPV & HEPATITIS VACCINES)
Certain viruses have been linked to cancer, but are preventable through vaccination. Talk to your health
care professional about the age recommendations for HPV vaccines. In the U.S., approximately one-third
of liver cancers are linked to the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV). An HBV vaccination
is available and is recommended for babies, older children who were not vaccinated earlier and adults
who are at risk for HBV infection.
KNOW YOUR FAMILY MEDICAL HISTORY AND GET REGULAR CANCER SCREENINGS
Talk to your health care professional about cancer screening. Some tests can help detect cancer early,
when treatment is more likely to be successful, and some can also detect precancerous conditions be-
fore they become cancer. While screening has been proven to save lives, screening guidelines aren’t
always “one size fits all.”
https://www.preventcancer.org/education/seven-steps-to-prevent-cancer
3 Senior News February 2021
Sponsor a senior
IN HOME DELIVERED MEALS PROGRAM
As you may know, our senior center activities have been suspended during the
COVID-19 pandemic. We are still continuing to prepare our Home Delivered Meals
for our seniors of Somerset County. Our Home Delivered Meals have grown to over
900 meals delivered daily. Our suggested donation is $3.00 per meal; however, some
find it difficult to make that donation. We are asking for your support and help. Alt-
hough all donations are welcomed, please consider sponsoring a senior for $60.00
which will cover the cost of one month of meals.
The Federal Government, local funds and the Pennsylvania Lottery provide only a
portion of the total cost. This is why we depend so much on donations. In order to
continue and increase quality meal service, we need your help.
Your tax-deductible gift provides hot meals to those among us who are most in need.
The names of all contributors will be acknowledged in the Daily American in February,
2020 unless anonymity is requested. Donations can also be made in Remembrance.
Any questions please call 814-443-2681.
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Donation Coupon
Make your donation payable to: AAA of Somerset County
Mail to: Area Agency on Aging, 1338 S Edgewood Avenue, Somerset, PA 15501
Name:______________________________________Donation$____________
Address:__________________________________________Zip Code_________
Donation for or in Remembrance of____________________________________
May we tell your recipient you are the donor? Yes No
Do you need a receipt? Yes No Thank you!
4 Senior News February 2021
Centenarian Program
KNOW SOMEONE WHO IS 100 YEARS OLD?
If you know someone who has reached this remarkable mile-
stone, please contact the Agency at (814) 443-2681 or Toll Free
at 1-800-452-0825 between the hours of 8:30 AM and 4 PM
Monday through Friday (Except those days designated as county
holidays). Their biography can be featured in a future edition of
the Senior News.
COVID-19 CRISIS COUNSELING PROGRAM
GET CONNECTED WITH A FREE CRISIS COUNSELOR
Please call our Pennsylvania Support and Referral Helpline
1-855-284-2494 TTY: 724-631-5600
There are trained professionals available 24/7 ready to help
you navigate these unprecedented challenges.
These services are FREE & CONFIDENTIAL
ELDER ABUSE REPORTING NUMBER 1-800-233-8911
If you are receiving this publica on in error or changing your address, please call
the Somerset County Area Agency on Aging at 814-443-2681.
If you have an email, please let us know so we can send the newsle er to you
electronically. You receive it faster and in color and its FREE! You can email us at
webmaster@somersetaaa.org, to let us know you would like to receive the
monthly Newsle ers. Never miss an issue when you are on vaca on or visi ng
family or friends.
5 Senior News February 2021
20 Most Fantas c Facts About February
February is mostly recognized for Valentine’s Day, flowers, and depending on where you are, being
incredibly cold! Oddly enough, even though it’s just another month, there’s a lot of history behind this
month of romance and love!
1. February fluctuates between having 28 and 29 days per year. The 29th day only occurs every 4
years during leap years.
2. The length of February was finalized when Julius Caesar remade the Roman calendar and as-
signed the month 28 days and 29 days. In 713 B.C., February was officially added to the Roman
calendar.
3. If you were born in February, your birthstone is an amethyst and your flower is a primrose.
4. The western zodiac signs in February are Aquarius which is until February 19th, and Pisces, which
is until February 20th.
5. Over time, the length of February kept changing. At one point, it had as little as 23 days.
6. In the Northern Hemisphere, February is the third month of winter. Meanwhile in the Southern
Hemisphere, February is the last month of summer. Between the North and South Hemispheres,
February is the equivalent of August.
7. The name of February comes from the Latin word “februum” which means purification.
8. February was named after a purification ritual which was like an early Roman spring cleaning festi-
val.
9. In Welsh, February is sometimes known as “y mis bach” which means “little month.”
10. February and January were the last months added to the Roman numeral calendar.
11. The Saxons called February “Sol-monath” which means “cake month” because they would offer
cakes to the gods during February.
12. Of all the words you can misspell, February is one of the most misspelled words in the English lan-
guage. Even the White House has misprinted the word “February” before in a press release!
13. February is the only month where it’s possible to go the entire time without having a full moon.
14. February has been Black History Month for over 40 years.
15. The odds of being born on February 29th are about 1 in 1,461. Those born on a leap day can be
called a “leaper” or “leapling.”
16. February, March, and November always start on the same day of the week unless it is a leap year.
17. It was in February 1964 when The Beatles made their first American television appearance on the
“Ed Sullivan Show.” Over 73 million Americans watched!
18. There are many U.S. states that entered the Union during the month of February. These include
Massachusetts, Oregon, Arizona, and Mississippi, which was readmitted.
19. Sadly, February 1st, 2003 was when the Space Shuttle “Columbia” broke apart in flight, which
killed all seven crew members. The accident was believed to be a result of damage which oc-
curred during liftoff. The tragedy occurred only 16 minutes before the shuttle was scheduled to
land.
20. On February 2nd, 1848, U.S. and Mexico signed the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo which ended
their war. The U.S. paid Mexico $15 million in exchange for California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona,
New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, and Texas. https://www.thefactsite.com/february-facts/
6 Senior News February 2021
February 2021 Menu
1 BIRTHDAY LUNCH 2 3 4 5
Roast Pork w/Gravy Barbequed Chicken Chile w/Cheese Roast Turkey Hot Dog on Bun
Mashed Potatoes Potato Salad Mixed Green Salad w/Gravy Baked Beans
Italian Blend Green Beans w/Grape Tomatoes Mashed Potatoes Melon Cup
Vegetables Mandarin Oranges Ranch Dressing Winter blend
Apricot Halves Rye Bread Fresh Apple Vegetables
Chocolate Cake Corn Muffin Cranberry Salad
w/Icing Wheat Dinner Roll
8 9 10 11 VALENTINE’S 12
Macaroni & Cheese Salisbury Steak Rigatoni w/Meat DAY LUNCH Vegetable Lasagna
Stewed Tomatoes w/Gravy Sauce Stuffed Chicken Mixed Green Salad
Three Bean Salad Mashed Potatoes Broccoli Florets Breast w/Gravy w/Eggs
Pineapple Tidbits Brussel Sprouts Mozzarella Cheese Parslied Red Diced Peaches
Fresh Orange S ck Potatoes
Tropical Fruit Salad Mixed Vegetables
Fruit Cup
Cherry Pie
15 16 17 ASH WEDNESDAY 18 19
Honey Mustard LUNCH Stuffed Pepper Egg Omelet w/
President’s Marinated Pork Potato Crusted Cod Mashed Potatoes Cheese
Chop Tartar Sauce Corn Yogurt
Day Au Gra n Potatoes
Normandy
Pierogis
Fresh Citrus Salad
Creamed
Cucumbers
Fresh Banana
Whole Grain Muffin
Vegetables Cole Slaw Quartered Fruit V8 Juice
Closed Baked Apples Salad
Wheat Dinner Roll Cheddar Cheese
Rectangle
22 23 24 25 26
Baked Chicken Ham Pot Pie Meatloaf Creamed Chicken Vegetarian
w/Gravy Tossed Salad Scalloped Potatoes over Biscuit Vegetable Soup
Seasoned Whole w/Cheese & Sliced Carrots Peas & Carrots Egg Salad on Whole
Mini Potatoes Tomatoes Mandarin Oranges Fresh Apple Grain White Bread
Peas Italian Dressing Co age Cheese Carrot Raisin Salad
Diced Pears Fruit Cocktail Fresh Clemen ne
Mozzarella Cheese
S ck
All Bread and
No one is Milk
rich enough Served Rolls are
to do with Served
without a Every with
neighbor Meal
Margarine
So you can enjoy a relaxed and comfortable dining experience, reservations are recommended.
Lunch is served at each center at 11:30 AM. Please call the Center you plan on attending by 11:30 am
the day before. Please indicate your preference for the hot meal or salad/café meal (Option B). The
menu is subject to change due to typographical errors or other unforeseen circumstances.
7 Senior News
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Senior News
Published monthly by the
Area Agency on Aging of Somerset County,
a department of Somerset County
Government under the
Commissioners of Somerset County
Gerald Walker, Chair
Colleen R. Dawson, Vice Chair
Pamela A. Tokar-Ickes, Secretary
James T. Yoder, Administrator
Melissa Beam, Deputy Administrator
Linda Myers, Advisory Council Chairperson
This project is funded, in part, under
contract with the PA Department of Aging.
If you would like to obtain further infor-
mation about any newsletter topic or Agency
services please call the Somerset office at
(814) 443-2681 or 1-800-452-0825
www.somersetaaa.org
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