3rd Act Magazine – Spring 2016

SPRING 2016

Partners in

LIFELONG

Learning

Evolution of a Caregiver

Spring

into a Healthy

SUMMER Reimagining

HOME IT TAKES A VILLAGE

BOLD

Ideas

for Living Your 3rd Act

BERNARD SILBERNAGEL instructs a class on the Cosmos for Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, which holds classes at Era Living’s retirement communities.

“You can’t help getting older, but “You can’t help you don’t have getting older, but to don’t get old. ” you have to get old.”

– George Burns – George Burns

At Garden Court, residents live as if there is no tomorrow.

Why Forget about the cooking, yard, and At not?

Garden Court, residents live ascleaning if there isand no the tomorrow. spend your lifeForget doingabout thosethe things that fill you upand andthe make youand laugh.

Why not? cooking, cleaning yard, spend your life doing those things that fill you up and make you laugh.

Call today for lunch and a tour – just for the fun of it. 425.438.9080 Call today for lunch and a tour – just for the fun of it. 425.438.9080

425.438.9080 425.438.9080 520 - 112th Street SW RETIREMENT COMMUNITY RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Everett 98204 520 - 112thWA Street SW www.gardencourtretirement.com Everett WA 98204 www.gardencourtretirement.com

Get closer to Get closer to what most. most. what matters matters most.

Whatever your passion, Era Living offers eight Whatever your passion, Whatever passion, Era Era Living Livingoffers offerseight eight unique retirement communities designed to unique retirement retirement communities unique communitiesdesigned designedtoto bring you closer to everything you love. bring you you closer closer to bring to everything everythingyou youlove. love.

Aljoya Aljoya Aljoya Mercer Island MercerIsland Island Mercer (206) 230-0150 (206) 230-0150 (206) 230-0150

Ida Culver House Ida Culver IdaBroadview CulverHouse House Broadview Broadview (206) 361-1989 (206) (206)361-1989 361-1989

Ida Culver House Ida Culver House Ida Culver House Ravenna Ravenna Ravenna (206) 523-7315 (206) 523-7315 (206) 523-7315

*University House The Lakeshore The Gardens at Town Square * The Lakeshore The Gardens at Town Square *University House The Lakeshore The Gardens at Town Square University House South Seattle Downtown Bellevue Issaquah South Seattle Downtown Bellevue Issaquah South772-1200 Seattle Downtown Bellevue Issaquah (206) (425) 688-1900 (425) 557-4200 (206) 772-1200 (425) 688-1900 (425) 557-4200 (206) 772-1200 (425) 688-1900 (425) 557-4200

*University House *University House *University House Wallingford Wallingford Wallingford (206) 545-8400 (206) 545-8400 (206) 545-8400

Aljoya Aljoya Aljoya Thornton Place Thornton Place Thornton Place (206) 306-7920 (206) 306-7920 (206) 306-7920

Call visit, or or view view video video Call today today for for a a personal personal visit, Call today for a personal visit, or view video testimonials at eraliving.com eraliving.com testimonials and and more more at testimonials and more at eraliving.com *Proudlyaffiliated affiliatedwith with *Proudly

Over Overtwo twodecades decadesofofproud proudaffiliation affiliation with with

Over two decades of proud affiliation with

*Proudly affiliated with

Living Life at Green Lake In all of Seattle, there’s no community quite like Green Lake—and no retirement lifestyle quite like ours.

The Hearthstone is the retirement destination for people who love life! Enjoy the natural beauty of Green Lake from your own balcony. Dine on fine cuisine prepared by our Executive Chef. Everything you love about Seattle is just minutes away—and we’ll take you there. Plus, you’ll have the assurance of continuing care at our Life Plan Community.

You may think you can’t afford a lifestyle as rich as ours.

You’re in for a surprise.

Call us today for more information and to schedule a tour.

206-517-2213

www.hearthstone.org 6720 E Green Lake Way N Seattle, WA 98103

206-517-2110

www.villagecove.org 6850 Woodlawn Ave NE Seattle, WA 98115

NOW OPEN—Village Cove 28 deluxe apartments for condo-style living. Perfect for the active retiree and just steps from Green Lake with access to all of Hearthstone’s generous amenities.

Spring 2016

27

Lifestyle

24

It Takes a Village

29

Creating a Community for Aging in Place

26

Head of the Class

34

The Joy and Benefits of Lifelong Learning

30

The Road Not Taken A Chance to Recreate Your Life

31

My Third Act A Seattle Playwright Goes Back to the Future

32

Bold Ideas for a New Future

6

Draw a Map to Your 3rd Act

34

Artful Aging

Zoomers Boomers in Retirement

35

6

Spring Training

Blunt Talk on Getting Older

Are You on the Right Team?

39

8

Paradise on Earth

18 21

The Greatest Gift An Age-old Initiation

Preventing Colorectal Cancer

22

Don’t Die Needlessly

The Right Questions to Ask Answer These Before Making A Move

Longer Days, Shorter Nights

23

Are You Getting the Sleep You Need

17

Tips for Moving a Parent Close to You How to Ease the Transition

Wellness

14

Time to Talk Conversations between Adult Children and Parents

Tulips Bloom in the Skagit Valley

12

Aging Deliberately

Wakes & Vigils The Benefits of Grieving at Home

Get a Little Spring in Your Step

25

Walking and Hiking

Seeking Assisted Living?

You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

28

Evolution of a Caregiver Alzheimer’s and the Artist Within

37

The Surprises of Aging Learning to Be by Being Around Longer

38

Coming Attractions Spring events and engagements

32 Reimagining Senior Life

13

40

Brain Games Take your brain for a brisk walk with these word puzzles spring 2016

| 3rd Act magazine

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PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

Here We Go! New Beginnings

W

elcome to the first edition of 3rd Act Magazine! We’re not new to the community; as Senior Guidebook we’ve been providing information and resources to Puget Sound’s older adults for years. We’re evolving, just as the conversation and conventional wisdom around aging and retirement is evolving. And our evolution is more than a new title and look. In these pages we invite you to Reimagine Life as an older person— beyond the stereotypes so prevalent in our culture.

As a group, generation, or cohort, we’ve spent decades growing into our third act of life—a time when the gifts and losses are many and we sometimes find our self-concept challenged. At 3rd Act Magazine we’re leading the conversation on how to positively shift perceptions about growing older and becoming an elder. To that end, we bring you the Northwest’s best writers and experts on aging. They offer

insights, strategies and resources to help us embrace who and where we are now.

On page 21, writer David Korten tells us about a gift he received on his 65th birthday that shifted his perception of getting older. Few would consider having a mother with Alzheimer’s a gift, yet in The Evolution of a Caregiver on page 28, Marilyn Raichle shares the many gifts she received as she learned to meet her mother where she was, instead of where she wanted her to be.

Living our third act is not just about getting older, it’s about living the best lives we can. Our feature story on Osher Lifelong Learning reminds us about the joy of discovery—of learning new things just for the fun of it. On page 32, Patti Dobrowolski invites us to reimagine this third act of life— showing us how to visualize the future we want and map our way there.

Be sure to check out our new website at 3rdActMagazine.com, where you can share our articles and join in on our forum. Like us on Facebook and join our community. We want to hear your voice. Let’s become a chorus to herald a time of new beginnings—a time to Reimagine Senior Life in Western Washington.

Victoria, David & Oshi

OU R VI SI ON We are a trusted resource to enlighten, to inspire, and to entertain our Boomer generation and elders; to replace the worn-out perceptions of aging with a dynamic new vision; to reimagine our senior lives.

PU B LI SH E RS

Victoria Starr Marshall David Marshall EDITOR Victoria Starr Marshall ASSOCIATE EDITOR Gretchen M. Krampf COPY EDITOR Gayle Fox ART DIRECTOR Mara Doane WEB PRODUCER Philip Krayna ADVERTISING Victoria Starr Marshall DISTRIBUTION & CIRCULATION

David Marshall CONTRI BUTI N G WRITE RS

Allan Ament, Ashley T. Benem, Kyle Ciminski, Patti Dobrowolski, Adam Eckes, Dennis Friedman, Alice Kalso, David Korten, Gretchen M. Krampf, Nancy Linde, Lynnaea Lumbard, Mary Mesheau, Jane Meyers-Bowen, Kellie Moeller, Marilyn Raichle, Liz Taylor, Scott Warrender, Tracy Willis, Nancy Werner COVE R PH OTOG R APHY

Stewart Hopkins WRITE TO US 3rd Act Magazine wants to hear from you!

Email your comments, ideas, and questions to info@3rdActMag.com or mail to 81 Canal Lane, Brinnon, Washington 98320.

3rd Act Magazine is published quarterly by Oshi Publishing, LLC. The opinions, advice or statements expressed by contributing writers do not reflect those of the editors, the publisher or of 3rd Act Magazine.

No part of this magazine may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher. It is your responsibility to evaluate the accuracy, completeness or usefulness of any information, opinion, advice or other content contained herein. Oshi Publishing, LLC makes no representation and, to the fullest extent allowed by law, disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied. The content published herein may include inaccuracies or typographical errors.

Copyright 2016 Oshi Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved.

Oshi Publishing, LLC 81 Canal Lane Brinnon, WA 98320 360-796-4837 Email: info@3rdActMag.com For subscriptions and additional information, see us online at www.3rdActMag.com.

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3rd Act magazine | spring 2016

www. 3rdAct Mag.com

BELLINGHAM

OAK HARBOR

BURLINGTON

EDMONDS

HomePlace Special Care at Burlington Memory Care Homeplaceburlington.com

Edmonds Landing Assisted Living Edmondslanding.com

HomePlace Special Care at Oak Harbor Memory Care Homeplaceoakharbor.com

360-715-1338

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425-744-1181

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BREMERTON

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Bay Pointe Retirement & Memory Care Baypointeretirement.com

Where The Heart Is Assisted Living & Memory Care Whereheartis.com

The Terrace at Beverly Lake Memory Care Theterraceatbeverlylake.com

Clearwater Springs Assisted Living Clearwaterspringsseniorliving.com

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360-755-8007

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The Bellingham at Orchard Memory Care Thebellinghamatorchard.com

n

AGING DELIBERATELY

How Time Flies

Liz Taylor, an eldercare specialist for 40 years, lives in the San Juan Islands where she is semi-retired. She wrote a popular column on aging for The Seattle Times for 14 years, and has consulted with thousands of older adults and their families. Liz can be reached at lizt@ agingdeliberately.com

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How time flies when you’re having fun—and even when you’re not. I swear life passed at a slug’s crawl when I was young, but now it leaps by like a deer.

Today it’s spring. In the blink of an eye, it’ll be fall again—two years from now, will soon be in the past. Where does time go? And does the pace get faster as we get older?

All to say: life is change. One minute I’m seven, learning to ride a bike, the next I’m 35, expecting company for dinner. Now I’m 70, well beyond middle age, an age I never ever thought I’d be. Surely that’s not me in the mirror with wrinkles and gray hair!

Whoever you are, and whatever you’re doing right this minute, can you imagine who you’ll be and what you’ll be doing five, ten, or twenty years from now?

The funny thing about human beings in this era of longevity is that everyone thinks everybody else

3rd Act magazine | spring 2016

is aging—but not themselves. It’s always the other guy! I’ll stay young, while you’ll grow old.

Denial is not just a river in Egypt (as the saying goes). Blinders on, we steadfastly refuse to plan for the day when (not if) our physical or mental health declines. Ironically, those over age 75 are the most closed minded. Then comes the crisis that forces hasty, poorly thought-out decisions, and other people end up making important choices for us.

How will you grow older—accidentally or deliberately? If you want to do it successfully— which I define as having some control over what happens to you—you need to get your ducks in order ahead of time.

Let’s start at the beginning: become aware.

Awaken your imagination and senses to all the things that can change as you change with age: your vision, your stamina and flexibility, your adaptability, and lots more. All these will have a huge impact on the many things you do, like getting groceries, climbing stairs, mowing the lawn, driving. How will you prepare?

And, please, don’t assume just the negatives— old age is a stage in all of our lives that we’ve never had before, and it comes with some amazingly positive attributes.

Think about where you’ll live. Most of us want to stay in our own homes, but most homes were built for hearty thirty and forty year olds, not frail 85 and 90 year olds. Are there stairs outside, inside? A bathroom on the main floor? Stairs to your laundry? Is your home easy to clean?

Maintain? Is it close to a grocery store and public transit? How will you get around when you can no longer drive?

The more you become aware of the changes you’re likely to experience as you age, the more prepared you can be. www. 3rdAct Mag.com

CELEBRATE LIFE EVERYDAY This is how you envision retirement: carefree living with appealing amenities, engaging activities and a break from routine home maintenance. All in a warm, welcoming community where you can be comfortable, be inspired and be yourself.

You will call it the retirement of your dreams!

NOW LEASING! Our beautiful apartments are leasing quickly. Visit LegacyARC.com or call today, 360-515-5248.

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Request a brochure at LegacyArc.com.

time to talk “Sandwich Generation” used to refer to adults with children at home and aging parents. As we live longer, it’s more likely to apply to adults who are grandparents themselves with parents in their 80’s, 90’s and beyond. Navigating and talking about the changing needs of everyone can be difficult, but necessary. To help facilitate these important conversations, I’ll explore some of the more common and pressing questions.

Kellie Moeller has worked in the senior housing industry in the Northwest for more than a decade.

With an insider’s view and a passion for serving seniors, she gives a fresh perspective to aging in place. Email your questions to TimetoTalk@3rdAct Magazine.com or mail your questions to Time to Talk, 3rd Act Magazine, 81 Canal Lane, Brinnon,WA 98320.

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My kids are talking to me about getting more help at home or moving into a retirement home.

I’m doing fine, so how can I get them to back off?

There is a great quote from the book The Art of War

by Sun Tzu: “When in difficult country, do not encamp. In country where high roads intersect, join hands with your allies. Do not linger in dangerously isolated positions”. Some of the greatest life changes take place after retirement and the best allies can be your adult children. Sometimes, those around us see things that we don’t. Whether it is a decline in health or cognitive abilities, or just noticing how difficult it is to keep up a large home, our family members are usually the first to notice that things are slipping. Don’t be afraid to have an honest conversation with your children and ask them to share with you their specific concerns. Be willing to listen and express what is important to you. You will find yourself in a better situation if you tackle these hurdles early on rather than waiting to be forced into making choices from a hospital bed.

Having children that care enough to speak up now reflects that they are willing to stay by your side as you age and will continue to be your allies. Join the allies to win the battle.

My 84 year-old mom is adamant about staying in her home. We notice that she is having a hard time keeping up the house, she has fallen several times, and is not getting out much. She is becoming more and more isolated. I feel like our family is her only social circle now and I’m worried. I have tried talking to her about looking at retirement places, but she wants nothing to do with it…Help!

One of the biggest challenges in aging is that we lose control of life little by little. Health challenges can take away our mobility, our mental capacity, and

3rd Act magazine | spring 2016

can leave us isolated. To combat this life thievery, we take control of whatever is left. Your mother is faced with diminishing control and is fighting to keep it. She may have negative preconceptions of what life would be like in a retirement community.

Ask her to go to lunch with you at several places, just to prepare for the future. If you can have her visit during a social event that reflects her interests, even better. Tell her that you want to respect her wishes by having a plan in place. Afterward, compare the costs vs. benefits of each, ask the hard questions, and come up with a plan together.

We have been living in Seattle the bulk of our lives and just retired five years ago. Last month, we had a friend end up in a nursing home and is paying over $12,000 a month for care. This has taken us by surprise and we would like to make plans for the future. We are in our mid 70’s…is it too early to make plans? We don’t want to be in the same tight spot if something happens in the future to us.

Benjamin Franklin said, “There are only two things certain in life: death and taxes”. But I’d like to add a third certainty: long-term care.

Almost 70% of people turning age 65 will need long-term care at some point in their lives so it is never too soon to start planning. If you have ample resources you may qualify for a Life Plan Community where, while you live independently, there are assisted and skilled nursing services available and included when the need arises. A substantial investment is required up front, but it gives you that peace of mind you are looking for and frees up your family from the burden of care later on. For others, as health needs change, a month-to-month retirement community option works best. It is still expensive, but frees up your assets for other investments and does not require a hefty outlay. There is a great resource to help you evaluate and prepare for the costs of retirement by the U.S. Department of Labor called “Taking the Mystery out of Retirement Planning” You can access it free on line at the link below or request an alternate format: http://www.dol.gov/ebsa/pdf/ nearretirement.pdf. www. 3rdAct Mag.com

Home is where you do your best Judy Garland imitation in the shower.

Where you watch a movie and eat ice-cream at 2 a.m. Or celebrate becoming a “Great” with your granddaughter. It’s where you live life on your terms, by your values, and make your own decisions.

Home is where you can just be you.

At CarePartners Living, you’ll find a new place to call home. To learn more about carefree living in your neighborhood and to schedule a tour of one of our properties, visit us at www.CarePartnersLiving.com.

23008 56th Ave. W. Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043 425-678-6008

13200 10th Dr. SE Mill Creek, WA 98012 425-379-8276

10519 E. Riverside Dr. Bothell, WA 98011 425-485-8900

2204 12th St. Everett, WA 98201 425-258-6408

1216 Grove St. Marysville, WA 98271 360-322-7561

SPONSORED CONTENT

LIVING WELL IN EVERY SEASON

by Lindsey Hanson The days are getting longer, flowers are blossoming, spring cleaning is underway. In a season that is synonymous with new growth, spring can also be a time to reflect on wellness. Wellness is an active and continually evolving process of achieving one’s full potential. By focusing on how to live each day to its fullest, the personal growth from pursuing wellness can affect life in momentous ways. Wellness is multi-dimensional and encompasses all components of a person’s life, throughout all seasons of life. It includes not only personal growth, but how a person contributes to their community. While overall wellness can’t be measured, it consists of active decisions and actions that a person takes.

More than just a number on a scale or a healthy recipe, it encompasses physical, social, occupational, intellectual and emotional dimensions.

According to the National Wellness Institute, the six dimensions of wellness are the pathway to optimal living, affirming and mobilizing a person’s positive qualities and strengths.

CRISTA Senior Living’s Live Well program addresses these interconnected components of wellness to provide residents with the opportunity to continue to flourish. The retirement years allow for new opportunities and experiences, as well as time to focus on the things in life that truly matter. The Live Well program thoughtfully provides a framework to include activities, services and events that develop positive and transforming relationships, stimulate the mind, strengthen the body, nurture the heart, and ultimately give glory to God.

to ensure optimal health. Try aiming for at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, stay hydrated, and wear sunscreen daily.

SOCIAL Social wellness emphasizes interdependence with others, recognizing an individual’s role and the importance of being in community. To foster social wellness, try setting a weekly time to call family members who live far away, share a meal with friends, or invite a neighbor over for coffee.

OCCUPATIONAL The occupational dimension of wellness recognizes the satisfaction and enrichment in one’s life through work, volunteering, and hobbies. It recognizes that contributing your unique gifts, skills, and talents to your community through various outlets is personally meaningful and rewarding.

INTELLECTUAL Creativity, learning, and problem solving are included in intellectual wellness. Pursuing personal interests as well as current issues can expand and challenge the mind. Join a book club, visit a museum, or attend an educational presentation.

EMOTIONAL The extent to which a person feels positive and enthusiastic about life is encompassed in emotional wellness, as well as the capacity to recognize and accept feelings. To develop even greater optimism, note three things you are grateful for every day, listen to calming music, or write in a journal.

To learn more about the Live Well program at CRISTA Senior Living, call 206-546-7565 or visit cristaseniorliving.org.

Interested in pursuing wellness this spring? The following six dimensions of wellness provide ideas to try in every aspect of life. Making just one small change at a time can lead to significant results!

SPIRITUAL The spiritual dimension of wellness recognizes the search for purpose and meaning in life. Try beginning the day in prayer or meditation, or becoming involved in a weekly church service or Bible study.

PHYSICAL Physical wellness is achieved through regular exercise and healthy eating habits, as well as taking preventative measures

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3rd Act magazine | spring 2016

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Live life Imagine living in a place where you’re connected to all generations, where you can be part of a vibrant community filled with people of all ages.

Imagine knowing that you have all the extra help you need to stay independent and productive—and that more care is available if it is required.

That is what you’ll find at Cristwood.  Independent Living  Assisted Living  Memory Care  Nursing Care  Respite Care  Outpatient Therapy

connected.

Call for a tour today: 206.546.7565

19303 Fremont Avenue N Shoreline, WA 98133

cristwood.org

Take Action NOW to Prevent Colorectal Cancer

M AN OUNCE OF PREVENTION IS WORTH A POUND OF CURE—AND COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE.

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ore than half of all colon cancer deaths treatable. Those who have polyps or early-stage could be prevented with early detection colorectal cancer usually don’t have symptoms, screening. especially at first. So don’t wait for symptoms to According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), appear before getting screened. colorectal cancer (often called colon cancer) is the The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recomsecond leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the mends screening for those age 50 to 75, using U.S. and is expected to cause nearly 50,000 deaths high sensitivity fecal occult blood testing (FOBT), during 2016. While each death brings immeasur- sigmoidoscopy, or colonoscopy. For those at a higher able sorrow and loss, there is an risk of colon cancer—due to • Fecal occult blood testing tests a close relative having colon overarching tragedy: 60% of all stool samples for hidden blood, colon-cancer deaths in the cancer, having inflammatory which can be a sign of growths within U.S. could be prevented if bowel disease or a genetic the colon.

It is recommended annually, everyone 50 and older colon disorder—screenor every three years if done in combination were screened for colon ing may start sooner. with a sigmoidoscopy. The procedure consists of cancer.

In A nacor tes, collecting small stool samples at home, then mailing Island Hospital’s The risk of them to a lab for testing. cancer program colorectal cancer • Flexible sigmoidoscopy is used to look for growths or recent ly increases with cancer in the lower colon.

This test is recommended once conducted a age; more than every five years. A small flexible tube with a tiny camera at study to deter9 0% of c a ses the end is inserted into your rectum to allow your doctor are diagnosed in mine the late-stage to view your rectum and lower colon. individuals over 50. and metastatic Men and women are (when cancer cells • A Colonoscopy is a procedure that looks for h a ve migrated to nearly equally susceptible, growths or cancer in the entire colon, and is recommended every ten years. This with approximately one in another part of the body) procedure also uses a small flexible 21 men and one in 23 women colorectal cancer incidence tube with a tiny camera. diagnosed each year. Risk rate for the years 2009 through factors include family history of 2013. The study showed 47% of the disease, obesity, poor diet, and unhealthy lifestyle; patients diagnosed with colon cancer had late stage but even those without any risk factors can and do get or metastatic disease. colon cancer.

The ACS estimates that nearly 135,000 new cases One of the few cancers that can be prevented of colorectal cancer will be diagnosed in the U.S. in through early detection screening, colorectal cancer 2016. This number could rapidly decrease in coming often starts with a polyp—a small growth on the lining years if more diagnoses are made at an earlier stage, of the colon or rectum. Doctors can remove polyps when treatment is less challenging. during screening, often stopping the cancer before it For more about colorectal or other cancer-related can start. Polyps are common and most often are not topics, visit the ACS website at www.cancer.org. cancerous.

The Merle Cancer Care Center at Island Hospital provides state-ofToday’s screening techniques are mostly painless the-art pretreatment, staging, treatment and clinical follow-up for cancer patients. It is fully accredited by the Commission on and are able to detect the cancer in its early stages. Cancer of the American College of Surgeons. For information call When caught early, colorectal cancer is highly 360- 299-4200 or visit www.islandhospital.org.

3rd Act magazine | spring 2016

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A

fter a long day of work, household chores, playing with our grandchildren, or catching up with friends and neighbors, most of us enjoy climbing into bed, pulling our blankets over our bodies, and closing our eyes as we drift away to sleep. But as we get older, it can sometimes be hard to fall asleep, and even harder to stay asleep.

We all know how important sleep is to our health and well-being, but many of us struggle with understanding why our bodies don’t cooperate with us.

It’s important to know that as we age our sleep patterns naturally change.

We often go to bed earlier and wake up earlier. However, just because our sleep patterns change doesn’t mean we should experience excessive fatigue or symptoms of insomnia. If this happens, many people turn to medication sleep aids, but these are only effective for short-term use, and do not promote the deep sleep that our bodies need each night. Fortunately, there are many holistic techniques we can incorporate into our lives to improve our “Sleep Hygiene” and get a good night’s rest.

1.

Create a sleep schedule—Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. Keeping your sleep schedule consistent will help you fall asleep more quickly and wake up more easily.

2.

Create a comfortable sleep environment—Background noise and light can sometimes be comforting but may result in poorer quality sleep and waking up more frequently. Make sure your bedroom is comfortable, quiet, and dark. Avoid watching TV right before bed and make sure your TV is turned off during the hours that you sleep.

3.

Avoid using stimulants or depressants before bedtime— Things like caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol can impact our ability to fall asleep and can result in less quality sleep so we wake up groggy.

4.

Increase physical activity during the day—More activity during the day gets your body ready for recovery during the night. Try increasing the amount of steps you take during the day or attending a group activity class to get your heart rate up. This will help you drift away to sleep

more quickly. The added activity will also benefit your overall health and well-being.

5.

Practice relaxing—Before bedtime, do something relaxing—read, take a bath, or meditate. This is not only a great way to prepare for sleep but also promotes positive mental health.

These sleep hygiene techniques are not quick fixes. It can take time for your body to adjust to them and they need to be done routinely to work well. Try one or two of them for a few weeks and see how they work with your lifestyle, then adjust them as you see fit. If you have questions about your sleep habits or think you have a problem with sleep, there are other techniques that your primary care doctor can share with you.

Sleep health is an incredibly important part of our quality of life and should be taken seriously. It’s important to know that if you have any difficulties sleeping, you have options, and you’re not alone in this. Strike up a conversation with family and friends, and consider talking with your primary care doctor if you have questions or concerns.

Adam Eckes, MSW, LICSW, of Iora Primary Care is passionate about health care that honors and integrates the life experiences of each patient. He enjoys exploring and eating all the different foods Seattle has to offer. When not eating, Adam can be found running, watching baseball, or spending time with his wife and his dog, Tully.

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3rd Act magazine | spring 2016

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Since 1958

See What Everyone’s Talking About!

Our “rejuvenation” is complete and it’s the talk of the town!

Come by for a visit soon to see our beautiful new look and feel.

Let us show you why we’re the new leader in Eastside senior living.

Madison House

Independent & Assisted Living Community A Koelsch Senior Community

(425) 821-8210 12215 NE 128th Street, Kirkland www.madisonhouseretirement.com

Reimagining Senior Life

spring 2016

| 3rd Act magazine

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Only at Mirabella Seattle

Living here means being surrounded by the best the city has to offer. With easy access to such popular restaurants as Canlis, Osteria Rigoletto, and Aqua, you’ll experience sophisticated urban living at its most delicious.

Call today for a tour and find out how you can retire in the middle of it all.

206-254-1441 • retirement.org/mirabellaseattle 116 Fairview Avenue North, Seattle, WA 98109 Equal Housing Opportunity.

Mirabella Seattle is a Pacific Retirement Services Community. Equal Housing Opportunity.

FITNESS

Get a Little Spring in Your Step

N

ow that it’s Spring, the Great Northwest is greeted by warmer, if not drier weather.

After being cooped up inside for the winter, I know I am ready to get outside and stretch my legs by either walking or hiking Washington’s scenic trails. As with all physical activities, a little preparation goes a long way. Planning for the proper equipment will leave you ready to face nature’s challenges with confidence.

For those who enjoy walking, investing in proper shoes and clothing will help make your walk more enjoyable and beneficial to your health. Shoes should provide adequate support for the arch of your foot while a lighter weight option will prevent leg fatigue. Shopping for shoes from a walking or running store will provide more selection and knowledgeable staff. Clothing should not be restrictive or encumber movement. For many, this means jeans or slacks are not an ideal option. A sports fabric will allow your body to move more freely and provide a greater range of motion.

Hiking poses its own challenges, everything from uneven terrain to quick increases in elevation.

Hikers should be prepared for the obstacles they may face. I recommend carrying folding walking sticks when exploring new trails. These provide security if you meet rough or steep paths. Practice with these on familiar trails before heading out on a new adventure. Finding proper hiking boots will allow you to hike longer with less pain. Look for a lighter weight pair with ankle support and a gripping tread. Outdoor and sporting good stores

Reimagining Senior Life

will have durable options with associates who can give recommendations.

Paying attention to your technique while you walk or hike will help prevent injury and improve posture. Hold your shoulders back, chest high, and head straight. Your foot should touch the ground first with your heel, rocking forward to your toe before leaving the ground. Be aware of your gait; walking too fast may cause irritation or pain in your hip or lower back. Most of us take walking for granted, but being aware of your posture while walking has long lasting benefits that will allow you to walk further with ease.

Now that you have the proper equipment and form, let’s work on isolated exercises that will strengthen your legs, core and back for a better active experience. Start by climbing stairs with or without a handrail, depending on your stability.

Stairs help prepare your legs for the range of motion you will likely experience on a hike, as well as strengthen your quadriceps and gluteus muscles.

I also recommend calf raises to strengthen your calves and ankles. Strong lower legs provide more push to propel your stride forward.

These tips will help you prepare for Washington’s outdoor season. Remember to stay hydrated and invite a friend to explore new paths or trails with you. Planning ahead will keep you moving and injury free to enjoy the fresh air all spring and summer. spring 2016

Kyle Ciminski, a personal fitness trainer, holds more than 30 training certifications, including TRX Master Trainer.

His specialty is injury recovery and training active seniors.

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TRANSITIONS

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iles—and even states—separate many of us from an aging parent.

That distance can create havoc: lost days of work, flying back and forth as crises occur, and lost sleep wondering what will happen next.

Depression, falls, dementia? Now it’s finally time to make a change. Our parent agrees that they need to move close to us. Here are some tips to help the process.

1.

Decide on a place to live—It’s best to start early looking at types of housing: retirement communities, assisted living or adult family homes. Once you and your parent make a choice, make sure you’re added to the waiting list and keep in close contact with the marketing director as the time for their move draws near.

2.

Get help with the home sale and with sorting through belongings— Most families move their loved ones before putting the home up for sale. Connect with a Realtor here who can refer you to a credentialed Senior Real Estate Specialist® where your parent lives. Your Realtor may also be able to recommend a professional organizer to help sort and prioritize beloved possessions.

3.

Find a doctor—A call to your own doctor may help you locate a physician specializing in geriatrics. Assisted living nursing staff can also provide referrals.

Alice Kalso, of Silver Age Referrals, has helped families find housing and care for their loved ones since 1994. Her blog, boomersguidetoeldercare. com, is for people grappling with issues relating to aging parents.

Contact Alice at alice@ silveragecare.com.

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4.

Ask for your parent’s medical records to be transferred—As soon as possible, schedule a visit with the new physician. If you’re moving them to assisted living, an adult family home or nursing home, the physician will need to see your parent before they can move in.

5.

Make sure your parent’s insurance is valid here—If not, you’ll need to disenroll your parent from their current insurance and enroll in

3rd Act magazine | spring 2016

a comparable plan near you. Connect with customer service from both companies to assure a smooth transition. For more information on Medicare supplemental insurance and managed care plans, call Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) at 800-562-6900. SHIBA is affiliated with the Washington State Insurance Commissioner’s Office, and uses trained volunteers to educate consumers on the various insurance options.

6.

Check out legal documents—Powers of attorney and advance directives are worded differently from state to state, but generally transfer across state lines. A visit to an attorney in Washington is a good idea so you and your parent can make changes if needed.

7.

Find fun things to do—If he’s a bridge player, check out opportunities at the local senior center—Washington State has some great ones!

Ask for a catalog of activities, and peruse them to see which might spark an interest. If she has attended a church or other religious group, find a similar congregation locally. Other associations your parent has had in the past, such as garden clubs, the Elks, Rotary, etc., may be available in your area. Don’t forget veterans’ organizations. If your parent is moving to a retirement or assisted living community, staff will do some of the work of finding the right opportunities for your parent.

Moving parents closer to you is still a move away from their home, friends and community. Helping them through each step will ease this often difficult but necessary transition. www. 3rdAct Mag.com

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3rd Act magazine | spring 2016

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WISDOM

I

t was 2002 and I was coming up on my 65th birthday. I knew it as a defining marker in our contemporary culture— the year to retire and go away to play golf or sit on a sunny beach sipping Mai Tai’s. I had no interest in golf, had transitioned to a retirement income years before, and in the course of my life had already enjoyed many of the world’s most beautiful and exotic beaches. So what was I to make of this defining anniversary?

The central thought going through my mind was, “I am now passing to the stage of life when my primary responsibility is to prepare for death. I began making a list. Make sure my will and my financial asset records are in order. Phase out of my organizational leadership responsibilities.

Face up to the fact I will not be writing any more books. Move to a retirement facility.

And select a burial plot.

Grim stuff, but one does have to be realistic and responsible.

I was slipping into deep depression, when Fran, my wife of then 40 years cheerfully announced, “I’m organizing a party to celebrate your 65th birthday.” I responded, “What’s to celebrate? This is the beginning of the end.” Undeterred, she responded, “Oh, it will be great.” She mentioned nothing of the surprise she was planning.

The day came. Our friends gathered on the back deck of our home for a

Reimagining Senior Life

bar-b-que dinner. They included Timothy “Tim” Iistowanohpataakiiwa, a Native-American elder.

Early in the evening, Fran asked for everyone’s attention and announced that Tim was going to perform a ceremony. It was simple and no more than 10 minutes long. He initiated me into elderhood, the time in my life when my role is to serve as teacher, mentor, and wisdom keeper of the tribe—potentially the most important, beautiful, and rewarding time of one’s life.

In that moment, my whole world shifted.

Tears came to my eyes. A burst of energy and awareness flowed through me. This was not the end. It was a new and deeply meaningful beginning.

I am now 78 and the years since I turned 65 have indeed been the best of my life. I still don’t play golf. I occasionally visit a beach. Fran and I just moved from our suburban home to a condominium in the heart of town and we plan in due course to join an aging in place support group. I continue to serve as board chair of YES! Magazine, and since 2002 have published five more books, and participated in forming several new organizations.

That ten-minute gift on my 65th birthday made the difference. Thank you, Tim. Thank you, Fran. You knew the gift I most needed.

spring 2016

David Korten lives on Bainbridge Island, WA with his wife Fran. He is currently president of the Living Economies Forum, board chair of YES! Magazine, co-chair of the New Economy Working Group, and the author of numerous books, including When Corporations Rule the World, The Great Turning: From Empire to Earth Community, and Change the Story, Change the Future: A Living Economy for a Living Earth.

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The Right Questions to Ask Before Moving into Assisted Living

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y grandparents were healthy, active, and extremely independent until the day my grandfather got lost on his daily jog through the park. My grandmother, 83, panicked when he didn’t arrive home at his usual time. A neighbor went out looking and, thankfully, found him safe, sound and very confused. Within a week she and my grandfather made the decision to move to an assisted living community.

I sent them the following information, to help them prepare for their search.

Tracy Willis serves as Director of Corporate Development for Village Concepts. She is the founder of Village Concepts University, a lifelong learning program currently operating in several VC communities. An advocate for seniors for over 15 years, she also serves on the PAC Board of Directors for Washington Health Care Association.

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TRANSITIONS

THE WHY AND HOW OF GOOD GRIEF

I

magine a gathering of friends and family, dressed in common clothes, gathered around a low table in a familiar, comfortable, casual environment. Each with a glass of beer, whiskey or tea, hand raised to the ceiling, toasting the guest of honor.

Good Grief We gather to celebrate; we gather to grieve. A wake is an age-old way of honoring a person’s dying. The open format of being in a home with several rooms allows for flexibility to process the loss. A place to cry and express grief, to be alone with the dead, to be with others to share stories, to celebrate and toast their accomplishments and their struggles. With no time keeper like at a busy funeral home, you have the time you need to be in your grief process, either at the side of the dead or in the kitchen.

Seeing is Believing The human animal is visually dependent. We are hardwired to be a see-it-to-believe-it critter.

This leads to an internal conflict in our grief process when we have not actually seen the body of our dead. Intellectually we know that they died. We went to the funeral, we saw the box, we saw the grave. But if we didn’t see the actual

Reimagining Senior Life

And since it falls upon my lot that I should raise and you should not, I raise a glass and boldly call, may love and peace be with us all.

THE PARTING GLASS, TRADITIONAL IRISH WAKE TOAST

body, our visually dependent animal mind says that it never really happened. This leads to a blockage in the somatic (body-mind) process of grief and loss.

How is it done?

Usually, the loved one is laid out at home on a massage table beautifully draped in lovely cloths.

Dry ice is placed under their back to prevent the body from breaking down too quickly. There is a side table full of memorial items: flowers, candles, pictures, mementos, spiritual objects, cards, and sometimes whiskey. The kitchen is full of potluck dishes, a pot of tea and mugs of coffee. Sometimes it’s a blessing or two, sometimes it’s a harpist or a guided meditation. Sometimes it’s fiddle tunes and laughter to the point of tears. The vigil or wake matches the character of the person’s life.

Many spiritual traditions around the world believe it takes up to three days for the spirit or soul to fully leave the body. A wake or vigil allows for that time to pass with the body witnessed and undisturbed. It allows for integrating the body, mind and spirit of the deceased and the people left behind.

Wakes and vigils provide a place, a time and an organic ‘how’ to help in dealing with the mystery of death. In a nutshell: see, toast, and cry for your dead at home.

spring 2016

Ashley T Benem, Death Midwife, LMP and Minister, is the founder of the nonprofit A Sacred Passing: Death Midwifery Service and the creator of The Art of Death Conference.

She is an advocate for palliative and end-of-life care issues, empowering and supporting families to reclaim their right to die in congruence with their lives. Contact Ashley at asacredpassing@gmail. com.

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REIMAGINING HOME

Janet is 87 years old and in decent health.

She lives alone in a two-bedroom house on two acres of land a block and a half away from the nearest bus stop. Janet has not driven a car since contracting macular degeneration three years ago.

Frank lives alone in a semi-rural Washington State town on a street where residents of the nearby city own most of the houses for weekend use. His adult children, who live on the east coast, worry over who will care for their elderly father when he is unable to do everything himself.

Luckily, Janet and Frank live in communities with membership-based, non-profit organizations connected to the Village-to-Village Network. Through volunteers and vetted providers, individual village organizations support their members’ desire to live independently, in their own homes, as long as possible.

Village volunteers provide transportation, shopping, yard work, minor household repairs, and other services. Through Frank’s village membership, his children have some assurance he is not alone. If Frank needs help, he need only make a phone call. Janet can get to doctor appointments and community events, as well as having someone read her mail to her and help with other household chores, all with a call to the village.

Founded fourteen years ago by neighbors in the Beacon Hill neighborhood of Boston, the village concept is a simple one. Adults 60 and over who live within the area served by the village join by filling out an application and paying a membership

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VILLAGE ORGANIZATIONS HELP OLDER RESIDENTS REMAIN IN THEIR HOMES AND STAY ACTIVE IN THE COMMUNITY

BY PROVIDING ACCESS TO VOLUNTEER ASSISTANCE, DISCOUNTED LOCAL SERVICES, AND EDUCATIONAL AND SOCIAL ACTIVITIES. fee. The fee, ranging from $100 to $1000 a year, varies from village to village depending on the cost of living in the area, services provided and other factors.

Members receive three benefits: 1. access to volunteers to do household chores, provide transportation, make house calls, and similar activities; 2. a list of trusted and vetted businesses and professional service providers, many of whom give discounts or other priority treatment to village members; and 3. access to social and educational programs, which may be the most important benefit. According to a study recently published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science, “The fewer social connections a person

had, the poorer their health, and vice versa. With each additional social connection that you have, you get an added beneficial effect for your health.

The more, the better.”

Since the establishment of the initial village in Beacon Hill, 190 others with more than 25,000 members have been started across the country. An additional 185 villages are in development.

Washington State has four active villages and another seven in development.

Most local villages are members of the Village-to-Village Network, a national association that provides resources, educational services and support to individual villages through a yearly conference, a website replete with resources, and online forums for member villages to share information.

The mission statement of South Whidbey at Home Village summarizes the objectives of a village concept: “to help older residents…remain in their homes and stay active in the community by providing access to volunteer assistance, discounted local services, and educational and social activities. We are committed to improving the social, mental, and physical wellbeing of our members and to connect people of all ages in a respectful, responsive, and mutually beneficial way.”

As a recent AARP study has shown, 90% of older Americans prefer to remain in their own homes as they age. Yet when no longer able to handle all the activities of daily life, moving is often the only option. Villages have become an increasingly important resource

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and option available to people who want more control over their life, to continue to live in their own homes, and remain engaged with their community as they age.

Exploring a Move?

Allan Ament is the author of Learning to Float: Memoir of a Caregiver-Husband, as well as other articles published in literary and academic journals and trade magazines. He is the vicechair of the South Whidbey at Home (village) board of directors and the past CEO and board chair of the Northwest Institute of Literary Arts.

Allan lives on Whidbey Island with his wife, an award-winning writer, and their semi-neurotic cat.

Many years ago, before I entered the senior living industry, I was faced with the sudden quandary of moving my father from his independent retirement home to a Memory Care community. I was completely overwhelmed. So much so, that I was unable to think clearly about what the options might be. There were many events that led up to this predicament. Most took place within a short time. My husband and I did analysis of the criteria crucial to your not feel we had the knowledge, nor the family. For example, one assisted time, to consider all the options. We community may have lots of outdoor were in full crisis mode. Dad’s dementia space for your mom to walk but may required that he move very quickly. We not offer memory care if she develops had no plan and no help. That stressful Alzheimer’s disease. With the help of scenario would be very different now. a professional you can decide which Today, when it comes to exploring the vast assortment of residential communities amenities are truly important and which ones you may need in the future. and senior programs, we are blessed Price is often a deciding factor and not to have excellent resources here in the Puget Sound area. They are called senior all communities are priced the same way.

A professional placement specialists, or senior care advisor can advisors. Many are Certified Senior Advisors. This national credential assures research the cost they are trained in assisting the elderly and of care for you. their families with sensitivity and expertise. They can help These professionals have experience with you consider the different types of care arrangements, value versus price. This not and have screened the assisted living Nancy Werner is the owner of Transitional only saves hours communities for quality of care and Marketing Services. of your time but financial integrity. They can assess and Following the passing of her father from define what qualities are most important will surely help Alzheimer’s disease she to you in terms of living environment, cost, you narrow your began her third career decision. in the senior healthcare location, and future care, and can bring and housing industry.

Once you much needed objectivity to the process.

Contact Nancy at nw@ understand your They are not unlike the travel agents of the transitionalmarketingservices.com. past who booked your vacation and sent options, the plan to help your loved one can unfold. you on your way with confidence, and like travel agents, they receive a fee from Placement advisors can be extremely valuable in a crisis, but don’t wait for the the providers they utilize. crisis to arrive; research this valuable Through private consultation on service before you need it. Your family the phone or in person, placement will thank you. professionals complete a detailed

VILLAGES IN WESTERN WASHINGTON OPEN NEST (Seattle) 206-525-6378 www.nestseattle.org PNA Village (Seattle, Phinney Neighborhood Association) 206-789-1217 www.phinneycenter.org/village Wider Horizons (Seattle) 206-650-3586 www.widerhorizonsvillage.org

IN DEVELOPMENT Bainbridge Island Village 206-855-9001 www.bivillage.org Bellingham at Home 360-746-3462 www.BellinghamAtHome.org City of Mercer Island 206-275-7749 Orcas at Home (Eastsound) 360-376-7373 South Whidbey at Home (Langley) 360-610-7127

Reimagining Senior Life

CONSIDER USING A PROFESSIONAL

spring 2016

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEWART HOPKINS

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3rd Act magazine | spring 2016

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didn’t appreciate college when I went through it the first time in my late teens.

Eager to explore grown-up life and new adventures outside the classroom, I could barely sit through the ramblings that were going on inside.

How I’ve changed! Today I’d sit through those classes in a heartbeat. I’m not alone.

Having lived long enough to know how much we don’t know, many of us in middle age and beyond hunger for the adventure of learning, for the pure joy of stimulating our brains and making today’s world a little easier to understand.

Thanks to the Bernard Osher Foundation, we can.

For those ages 50 and over, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute—affiliated with 119 universities and colleges throughout the United States—provides high quality, low cost non-credit courses on a wide variety of topics for those who simply want to expand their horizons. No longer concerned about earning a degree, students need not worry about entrance exams, rusty arithmetic or old transcripts.

While adult education is a mainstay in many communities, “lifelong learning” is a term that suggests more in-depth subjects and greater engagement with fellow students.

The University of Washington is the resource for Osher programs in the greater Puget Sound area, offering about 20 Osher courses every spring, winter, and fall to 1400 members. Initiated by a million-dollar endowment from Osher in 2011, the UW Reimagining Senior Life

offers classes in multiple locations.

“Location is key,” says Natalie Lecher, the program’s director at the UW. “We want our classes to be convenient for as many people as possible.” Ranging from community and senior centers to art studios and retirement communities, classes are also held on the main UW campus and South Lake Union.

Retirement communities are popular venues. “Era Living, for example,” says Lecher, “has been a big supporter of our program. It has much to offer: a beautiful setting, lots of adults living there who are interested in what we offer, and well-equipped classrooms, plus accessibility, like free parking.”

“Lifelong learning is part of our core mission at Era Living,” says Jacob Almo, Vice President of Operations at Era Living. “We are pleased to host the high quality Osher Lifelong Learning courses. They give our residents opportunities for shared experiences, stimulating discussions, and lasting bonds with each other.”

The cost to take courses is exceptionally reasonable. Together with the original endowment from Osher, students pay $35 as an annual membership fee, plus $30 to $45 per course. Usually held in the morning or afternoon on weekdays, the courses are 3 to 5 weeks in length and given in two-hour segments. Class sizes range from 30 to 40. But in something like jewelry making, which is more hands on, Lecher says, there may be only 20.

“What participants say they love best about our classes,” says Lecher, “is learning along with other people—and having no homework!” The social stimulation is almost as important as the intellectual; friendships often develop.

The courses are wide-ranging and amazingly eclectic. There’s “Understanding Islam” scheduled for this spring in two locations—and it often sells out. A class called “Precursors to the Great Depression” provides background to our financial crisis of 2008 by looking at the development of American banking as far back as the 1800’s. Another looks at great women artists from 1500 to the present.

A course on the American Revolution examines the important intellectual and political ideas that shaped the War and its impact on colonial society.

Bernard Silbernagel, PhD, is both a student and a teacher at Osher. Retired in 2007 as a research scientist with Exxon Mobil’s Corporate Research Laboratories in New Jersey, the class he teaches, “The Cosmos,” examines the fundamentals of deep space, which have fascinated human beings since the beginning of time. “As a teacher, I try to focus on the questions students would most like to know, such as the underlying culture of the people who explored the issues and their impact on today.”

Short courses for people 50 and over are a terrific idea, he says. “If you’re not an expert in something, being able to learn the highlights of a topic in 8 or so hours is just about right. As a student, I don’t take courses in science, but choose topics I don’t know much about, such as Islam and music, and some marvelous art courses.”

Also available to members are free “Lunch & Learns”—monthly noontime talks from experts on a wide range of subjects; special events, such as guided museum and garden tours and summer field trips; and free study groups led by Osher members.

For more information, go online to www.osher.uw.edu or call 206-685-6549. spring 2016

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EVOLUTION OF A CAREGIVER

Marilyn Raichle has spent the better part of her career journeying between politics and the arts. She founded the Seattle International Children’s Festival, introducing children to world culture through the performing arts. She also founded American Voices, engaging people in good humored thought and action on the critical issues facing our world. Now, inspired by her mother Jean’s fascinating artwork, she has found her third act, opening hearts and minds to a compassionate and positive portrayal of people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia, replacing fear and stigma with hope and understanding and helping us all to become better stewards of our aging population.

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As my parents reached their mid-80’s, memory loss, would start the song and she would finish.

Alzheimer’s and dementia emerged and began to take Same for nursery rhymes. We marched. their toll. I found myself in the all too common position I learned the importance of touch. I of becoming a caregiver. began giving gentle neck massages to the Admittedly I was a reluctant caregiver. I begrudged ladies of Supported Living. “Heaven,” Jane them my time (my father could still push my buttons) and would say. “Do you tuck your wings in I resented the person who had “taken” my mother Jean’s a handkerchief when you aren’t here?” place. My visits were perfunctory and I was relieved to asked Gloria. Smiles all around, with each leave. How that must have hurt. taking as much pleasure in her neighbor’s When my father, Mom’s devoted companion of 66 enjoyment as her own. Soon people all over years, died, we began taking her to a painting class the lunch room eagerly awaited their turn. offered by Elderwise at Horizon House. Surprisingly, her What fun! paintings were good, always interesting, and sometimes Caregiving is not always easy. My father’s remarkable. She had never painted a day in her life experience with Alzheimer’s was far more but dementia seemed to silence her inner censor. The difficult. But if I knew then what I know art invited me in—past pain, past denial. Each week I now, it would have been so much better. I was eager to see what she had created and each week I would have realized that he was bewildered marveled at their invention and wit—a window into and terrified of being abandoned. I thoughts and emotions she couldn’t express any other way. know now that I should have just been As I spent more time with her, I began to let go of the there, listening to him, sitting with him, person who used to be and embraced the person who was massaging his neck, smiling, letting him with me now. Thoughts of loss disappeared. I enjoyed her know by my presence that he was not alone. company and looked forward to my visits. She was still That I would not leave him.

Mom, distilled to her essence.

Caregiving can be a gift. Be patient, be Even better, I became a part of her new family in present, and together you may find a world supported living. With Mom and her companions, I of mutual discovery and joy. discovered the peace of the moment, relaxing in an oasis of calm in the midst of a stressful life. No worries, no deadlines, no regrets—just the moment.

I joined Mom on her daily rounds as she greeted members of the staff and residents alike with a smile and a compliment. “My but you look beautiful,” she would say.

And they in turn loved her.

I slowed down and adapted to her pace. She played the piano with her own distinct medley of Silent Night morphing into Polly Waddle Doodle All Day. We played Scrabble. When she could no longer form words, we counted the score and when that was no longer possible I put the game away. She asked me the same questions over and over and it became a game for me to think up new answers which she was always eager to hear. We sang. I

3rd Act magazine | spring 2016

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The paintings below are by the author's mother, Jean Raichle. These and paintings of other adults with dementia are part of the Art of Alzheimer's, an exhibit that shares remarkable art by vibrant people. The exhibit opens hearts and minds to a different way of thinking about Alzheimer’s and dementia and prepares us all to be better stewards of an aging population.

THE ART OF ALZHEIMER'S EXHIBIT The Art of Alzheimer’s The Artist Within exhibit will be at Harborview Medical Center cafeteria level, March 1 to May 29, with a one-day trip to the Convention Center for an Alzheimer’s Association Conference on April 15. All or a portion of the art will be at the NW Folklife Festival at Seattle Center on Memorial Day Weekend. For full details visit theartofalzheimers.net

PROGRAMS The Frye Art Museum Center for Creative Aging provides creative arts programming to adults living with more progressed dementia who are being cared for at home in the Seattle area. For more information, contact Mary Jane Knecht, Manager, Creative Aging Programs, 206-432-8265, mknecht@ fryemuseum.org.

Reimagining Senior Life

spring 2016

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Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.

ROBERT FROST

RECLAIMING THE UNLIVED LIFE

W Lynnaea Lumbard, Ph.D., is co-president of NewStories (newstories. org), a Washington-based non-profit dedicated to illuminating and nurturing pathways toward a life-affirming future. A transformational psychologist, interfaith minister, community weaver, and social change philanthropist, she lives on Whidbey and Cortes Islands with her husband, Rick Paine.

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e have all been at this yellowwood crossroad, where we make a choice to turn down one path and forgo another. Maybe we give up skating to become a money manager, or painting to become an engineer. Perhaps at mid-life a career path gives way to having children, or children leaving home opens a door to a life of travel or leisure.

Sometimes the pieces left behind continue to weave through our lives like golden threads in a tapestry. And sometimes they go underground, like certain seeds in the desert that patiently await the right conditions in which to burst forth from the dark and flower in the sunlight.

I came to this yellow wood in my mid-thirties. Faced with making a choice between pursuing a relationship that might have led to marriage, or committing more deeply into my career, I took the road less traveled and spent my child-bearing years creating a national workshop company, often bushwhacking the trail to open the field of transformational seminars.

But my road-not-taken continued to

3rd Act magazine | spring 2016

call to me in the form of loneliness and longing for intimate relationship. Then at forty-four I met the man I would marry two years later. And so, like Morgaine in The Mists of Avalon (the high priestess who leaves Avalon for a life with a neighboring king and his children), I took a new road into life as a wife.

Carl Jung used the term "enantiodromia" for the emergence of the unconscious opposite in the course of time. This is the path of reintegrating the road not taken, living out the unlived life. These choices can occur many times in our lives, when we shift from one kind of life to another. And now that our generation is living so much longer, and we have new conditions of time, energy and money, we have yet another opportunity to reimagine our own road not taken. What would be in our lives now had we taken that other road so many years ago? And what are our choices now; what’s asking to be birthed, or rebirthed, in this third act of life?

For Victoria and David, it’s taking on this magazine. For me, it’s fulfilling my dream of being a writer. What’s calling you? What part of you is asking to be seen and heard? Yes, there’s always the bucket list of things to do and places to go.

But what do we secretly want to be, to explore or manifest in ourselves? What remains unexpressed of a long-held dream of creativity? What deep inner longing is unfulfilled?

At this new junction in the roads, Mary Oliver’s words come to mind: “what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” Do I have the courage now to once again step onto a road less traveled? I know it will make all the difference. www. 3rdAct Mag.com

ENCORE!

My Third Act Unlike most almost-retirees, many of us with Theater careers find ourselves mulling over Third Act options long before we hit A Seattle Playwright fifty. When I was Goes Back to the Future just forty-five, after deliberating for too many years, I made the difficult decision to go back to school and earn a degree in Music Education.

The experience of being an Adult Learner was thrilling, exhausting, and, to be honest, sometimes humiliating. I learned to wear my sense of humor like a shield, to never take myself too seriously, and to keep my eyes on the prize—a Washington State Teaching Certificate.

On my first day of school, all students were required to audition. After filling out an information sheet—Name of High School? High School choirs? High School music teacher? High School activities? Parent’s name?—I was interviewed by a group of baby-faced teachers who were in preschool when I was thirty.

In my overzealousness, I had practiced my audition piece—over and over—for something like eight hours. I took a friend’s advice: “If your voice is scratchy, swig some olive oil before you sing.” I carried the oil in a Tupperware container and downed it right before my name was called.

Ahhh. Mmmm. Smooth. Soothing. Burning! Acid in throat!

Red-faced, panicky—after a visit to the water fountain— I made it through my little song, gazing out over the heads of the music faculty as I was instructed to do by my voice teacher. I was feeling pretty good about the audition (though not about the friend who suggested the olive oil) until I was asked to sight-read a challenging passage of music. The result was a vocal convulsion while sliding off pitch, best described as the sad moan of an angry cow. The music faculty—all younger than me—whispered and scribbled.

Afterwards, I was encouraged to focus on the piano. “Not everyone can be Pavarotti,” someone said.

After the audition—as if the experience hadn’t been surreal enough—I was offered an apple by a woman holding

Reimagining Senior Life

a basket of fruit: Pacific Lutheran Red Riding Hood.

Back in my car, I reflected on the experience. I was given a shiny red apple for what? For trying, for doing my best.

It would be a while before I would be awarded another apple but I never forgot that kind, strange gesture.

Three years later, degree earned, I found myself on a new stage, standing in front of an audience of first graders, jumping around like a madman, completely lost in the joy of classroom teaching.

Having spent far too many years feeling uncertain and frightened of the future, I had convinced myself that no situation could be as inspiring or as fun as theater.

It wasn’t until I stopped listening to that voice, and took a single step toward a new goal, that I managed to embrace a new stage for myself—my Third Act.

spring 2016

Scott Warrender’s musical Das Barbecu!, a Texan retelling of Wagner’s RING cycle, premiered Off-Broadway in 1994 and it continues to be internationally produced.

His song My Lullaby (cowritten with Joss Whedon) featured in Disney’s The Lion King II: Simba’s Pride and was nominated for the International Animated Film Society’s Annie award. Scott lives in Seattle, writing and teaching, and staying active in local theatre.

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for a New Future REI M AGI N I N G YOUR 3RD ACT

Patti Dobrowolski, author of Drawing Solutions: How Visual Goal Setting Will Change Your Life, is founder of Up your Creative Genius, a consulting firm that uses visuals and creative processes to help companies and individuals around the world make powerful and positive change. A critically acclaimed comic performer, internationally recognized keynote speaker, writer and business consultant, she has brought innovative visual practices to Fortune 500 companies, NGOs and small businesses. Her TEDx talks Draw Your Future and Imagination Changes Everything have inspired hundreds of thousands of people around the world.

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Do you find yourself dragging your heart around every time you think about aging? Nine years ago when I turned fifty, I knew it was inevitable that my thoughts about getting older would enter new terrain. To ward off the blues, I got busy and compiled my top fifty must-do bucket list, and then started bike racing and bungee jumping and book writing, all in an attempt to stay vibrant and healthy.

It was exhausting! All the while, I watched many of my friends buy dozens of jars of beauty products to slow the rising tide of the wrinkly neck, and of course I even witnessed a few contemporaries get facelifts.

In many cultures, older individuals are lauded as elders and holders of knowledge and wisdom.

Why not here in this country? Isn’t it time we shifted the American antiaging media slant and celebrate this stage of our lives? I can hear your resounding “Hell to the Yes!” In my work as a motivational speaker and change agent, I’ve been refining a very simple visual goal-setting process to help people draw their dreams into reality. From corporate board rooms to living rooms, I’ve witnessed powerful, positive change and achievement from simply illustrating the path forward. It works!

You can do it!

3rd Act magazine | spring 2016

1

Get a blank sheet of paper.

Use the image on this page as a template. To start, just include the sky, clouds, mountains, the gap down the center, and the three arrows crossing the gap. Write "Current Reality" on the left and "Desired New Reality" on the right. Then write your name in that cloud at the top.

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Blast Off!

The 3rd Act is just that…a new stage for you to step on to, and every actor needs a rough script or at least some improvisational tools in order to proceed. We’ve all earned the right to be center stage now. So if you feel lost or invisible or wonder what’s next in your life and how you will get there, just make a map and draw your way to where you want to be.

I invite you to join me in reimagining our 3rd Act. Write in your own suggestions, your stories, and send pictures of you with your maps to blastoff.today.

www. 3rdAct Mag.com

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Where Am I Now?

On the Current Reality side of the picture I’ve drawn the entrenched perceptions of aging—one foot in the grave, piles of wrinkle cream, and of course, lots of bus trips. I’ve included both positive and negative perceptions and I am sure you could add a few images of your own to our collective 3rd Act experience.

I now invite you to reflect on the current state of your life. What’s going well and what’s challenging? Look at all aspects of life starting with work.

Are you still working? How’s it going?

What’s happening with your health?

Spirituality? How about with your friendships and support systems? Add to your map what comes to mind, with both words and pictures. Don’t hold

back! Even if you stopped drawing at age five, now is the time to once again let your inner Picasso thrive.

Once you have your Current State filled out, stand up and walk around the room to get your body into a new chemistry, make a cup of tea or coffee, drink some water, and do some stretching or even a little dance.

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Where Do I Want To Be?

Now let’s look at the “Desired New Reality” section. You can see what I put on my picture.

“Old age is the new black” and “Lauded for expertise and life experience” and “Mashing up w/ legacy our new normal.”

It’s your turn. What’s your desired new reality? Imagine it’s a year from today and in the best possible scenario, what’s it like in your world? What are the qualities and characteristics of your experience? Are you more creative? Grateful? Do you feel more love? Feel increasingly useful? Capture in words and pictures the best-case state of affairs that you can imagine.

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Bridging the Gap

It’s now time for the three bold steps that will help bridge the gap between the two sides of the picture. Your brain is already working on this, so make it easy. Look at the left side of the picture you’ve created, then the right, then close your eyes and ask that bigger part of you, “What’s the boldest thing I can do right now to get from here to there?” Once you have one bold step, go back in for the other two. They should be bold enough to Reimagining Senior Life

scare you a little, and yet manageable enough so that you can conceive a few smaller steps to accomplish it.

You can see what I thought the bold steps for us to shift the culture might be. Own it, flaunt it. Create an event for positive media coverage.

To put that picture to work for you, make a mini action plan for each of those bold steps, nothing fancy, just one small action that you can do right away. Know that the picture has already changed your internal chemistry; when you

draw and dream the future, you fill your body with oxytocin and serotonin, so it’s best to do something right away before your life lulls you back to the beach.

If you wrote down “get healthy” then put your shoes on and walk to the store.

When you get home, reward yourself with something good and healthy to eat!

Do one small thing every day to move yourself toward that desired reality. You’ll be shocked and pleasantly surprised at just how easy it is to step into that new reality. spring 2016

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I cringe at the word retirement, and try to avoid using it on forms when I am asked what my employment is, or when someone asks what is it that I do? I look sideways at my friends who use the word and want to correct them, asking them not to sell themselves short with such an archaic word. Like when the word ‘girl’ fell out of favor with women over a certain age. But hey, some girls embrace the word like some are trying to embrace the word slut. I don’t even like typing the word slut, but it rolls off my tongue more easily than the word retire.

I gobble up magazine articles that say that getting older does not signal the end of anything, but the beginning of all sorts of new adventures. Every word and shiny product that I read about tells me that no longer working must involve being

actively engaged and on the go.

The more I read these kinds of messages, the faster I breathe. Much like when I worked full-time and found myself panting with the need to do more, or be more.

When I realized I was doing this again I asked myself, “Why am I still hurrying?

Haven’t I done enough of that already?”

Then the great retirement goal was within reach. We were not going to be the generation that sat in a rocking chair in our ‘old age’. We needed to hurry and find our true passions that we hadn’t been able to pursue before. We could travel, work part time, volunteer and contribute to our communities, or pursue what we really wished we had done forty years ago. One of the most overworked phrases of our Zoomer generation is “I’m busier now than when I worked for a living.”

We even hurry when we say that. And when we turn to meditation as a way

to slow the pace, we look for the faster version. We meditate for five minutes and try to be mindful as we hurry to whatever is next on our daily schedule.

Now our children are being told to ‘lean in’, to reach for the top of the corporate ladder or other career. But I see that my daughters have learned to lean out too. They will say no, I am not going to do that or take that on right now. Maybe they watched their mother and decided that they didn’t need to be like that. Always rushing. Now I too want to learn to lean out, away from the expectations our generation has placed on us to always be busy.

What if we stopped hurrying and embraced the slowness of time and place? What if we really did stay still and quiet during our mindfulness sessions and slowed our pace when we are on the go? Maybe we can pass the baton, and let the young people take over the hurrying now.

Mary Mesheau’s two books: Beyond Me…A Principal Mystery and A Lockdown Murder, written under the name Mary Sawyer, are available on Amazon.com. For more of her wonderful humor, visit her blog at rewireforfun.blogspot.ca.

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3rd Act magazine | spring 2016

www. 3rdAct Mag.com

SPRING TRAINING Old Enough to Play for Fun

W

e are just like the Mariners. Every spring we look forward to the season with hope and optimism. But, unlike the Mariners, we’re no longer kids. We’re senior softball association players, aged 55 or older. Nobody is paying us a million bucks to play a game we all played as kids.

For us, softball isn’t food on the table or a roof over our heads. It’s fun. And if you’re on a team that doesn’t know that, you’re on the wrong team.

You bet it’s fun to win, and on my team we do that almost exactly half the time. We always play our best. And when something goes sideways— when we drop a can of corn in the outfield, throw wide of the first baseman, or dribble a hit out to the shortstop instead of into deep right center as intended—there is always something positive to be said. “Good job! You were there!” “Almost nailed him!” “It’s good to lull those guys into a false sense of security. You’ll get ‘em next time!” We shrug it off, laugh with the guys, and look forward to the next chance to snare a long fly, to make a dazzling play at first, or to tear the cover off the ball. Just like the Mariners, we remain optimistic and when we nail a double play or beat the throw to first, it’s

just that much sweeter because it doesn’t happen all the time and because your buddies in the dugout know what it means as they cheer with you.

Last year, our team picked up two incredible outfielders. They hit, they field, and boy, can they throw. They left a winning team to join us. Why? Because even though their old team was beating the hell out of us on the field, we were still having fun. These two guys smile more now. You don’t even have to ask them. You just have to look.

So why am I writing so little about the game?

Because it’s a game we all know already. It’s a great excuse to get out on the field, be a kid again, and have some fun. And optimism? This is going to be the best season yet.

©Dennis Friedman, 2016. Dennis usually plays 1st or 3rd base for the Crackerjacks in the Edmonds Parks league and for the Schwabbies in the PSSSA but will go where he’s told and plays on both teams with more enthusiasm than ability.

To learn more about playing for the PSSSA (Puget Sound Senior Softball Association) contact Gene Owen at EPOSeahurst@aol.com. If you’re in Snohomish County, contact Elmer Parks at espatmillcreek@gmail.com.

Camlann re-creates the everyday experience of a 14th century rural village typical of Somerset, England: a Living History Museum project for the interpretation, exploration, and enjoyment of medieval culture.

Come for our Spring Special Festivals April 23rd St. George Feast at the Bors Hede Restaurant, 6–8 pm April 30–May 1 Festival for May, Noon to 5 (Feast at 5pm) June 25-26 Midsomer Festival, Noon to 5 (Feast at 5 pm)

Village Days Every Saturday and Sunday in May and June, Noon–5 p.m.

Bors Hede Restaurant Open Wednesday to Sunday, 5–8 pm by reservation 10320 Kelly Road NE; Carnation, WA Reimagining Senior Life

www.camlann.org

425-788-8624 spring 2016

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is now

Brain Games Answers (Puzzles on page 40)

Today’s older adults are redefining how to live and embrace this stage of life—our third act. We are more demanding in where, when and how we spend our retirement years.

Aging also means we can face health, housing, and financial challenges and concerns. With help and advice from Western Washington’s leading experts, our newly designed, quarterly magazine offers new thinking, and a fresh approach to retirement living, health, finance and much more.

1. Cut and Dry 2. Rod and Reel 3. Law and Order 4. Smoke and Mirrors 5. Mover and Shaker 6. Trial and Error 7. Fair and Square 8. Coat and Tie 9. Divide and Conquer 10. Assault and Battery 11. Bow and Arrow 12. Nuts and Bolts 13. Fine and Dandy

Growing older, reimagined.

What a Pair 1. Blood 2. Dog 3. Grand 4. Home 5. Ice 6. Jack 7. Moon

8. Rain 9. Water 10. Green 11. Earth 12. Match 13. Under

Double Trouble LIFELONG

Learning

Evolution of a Caregiver

Spring

into a Healthy

SUMMER Reimagining

HOME IT TAKES A VILLAGE

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BOLD

s Idea for Living

Your 3rd Act

L instructs a BERNARD SILBERNAGE Osher Lifelong class on the Cosmos for holds classes at Learning Institute, which communities.

Era Living’s retirement

Get your FREE 1-year subscription today! Return the subscription card in this magazine or go to

3rdActMag.com.

3rd Act magazine | spring 2016

Rhyming Words and Phrases

Introductory Offer. Get 4 Issues FREE!

Partners in

1. Hocus Pocus (or Abra-cadabra) 2. Prime time 3. Cookbook 4. Backpack 5. Walkie-talkie 6. Big wig 7. Fender bender 8. Brain drain 9. Back track 10. Tepee 11. Blackjack 12. Wonton 13. Mayday

SPRING 2016

www. 3rdAct Mag.com

AGING

Friendships, Creativity and Satisfaction with Life Can Flourish

As a student nurse, my first assignment was on a medical floor in a hospital. And that is where I fell in love with older adults.

Perhaps it was the particular generation I worked with, but their grace, kindness, and sense of gratitude were so present. Now having been in the retirement-living industry for nearly 15 years, I have to say that sharing life with older adults is transformational.

“When we think of old age, we often think of decline and loss,” says Claudia Haase, an assistant professor of Human Development and Social Policy at Northwestern’s School of Education and Social Policy, “but a growing body of research shows that some things actually get better as we age. Our new findings show that trust increases as people get older and, moreover, that people who trust more are also more likely to experience increases in happiness over time.” Though trust can have negative consequences, especially among older adults at risk of falling for scams and fraud, the studies found no evidence that those negative consequences erode the benefits of trust. According to Michael Poulin, Department of Psychology, University at Buffalo, “One explanation for age-related increases in trust is that since older adults are increasingly motivated to give back to others, they believe them to be good and trustworthy.”

“We know that older people are more likely to

Reimagining Senior Life

look at the bright side of things,” Haase added. “As we age, we may be more likely to see the best in other people and forgive the little letdowns that got us so wary when we were younger.”

From my own experience, I find that older adults live in the present. This ability is associated with a certain type of detachment. Having shed many of the world’s possessions and associations with success, power and wealth, they are free to just be there in the moment. They are enlightened and lightened. It’s ironic that today there is a personal development movement of Mindfulness.

The truth is that mindfulness comes naturally as we age—you will learn to “be” just by be-ing around longer.

Being in the presence of elders on a daily basis has radically expanded my perception of what it means to grow old. I better respect the beauty of this life’s stage blessings.

spring 2016

Jane Meyers-Bowen, MN, is the Marketing Director at Garden Court Retirement Community.

For more information, you can contact her at 425-438-9080.

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COMING AT TRACTIONS Make the time to get out of the house in these longer and warmer days. Here are a few of the many events coming up this spring.

APRIL Painted Journeys, The Art of John Mix Stanley THROUGH MAY 1

Sherlock Holmes and the American Problem

APR 22–MAY 22

The American Wild West and Victorian England collide in this original adventure tale. The year is 1887, the occasion is Queen Victoria’s Jubilee, and the coincidences are piling up. Seattle Repertory Theatre.

206.443.2222 seattlerep.org

A sweeping saga of the mythic west and the pursuit of the American Dream, Paint Your Wagon is filled with some of the greatest songs ever written for the musical stage. 5th Avenue Theatre.

206.625.1900 5thavenue.org

MAY

The Lumineers

Book Sale

MAY 6–8

Browse thousands of hardbacks, paperbacks, audio books, CD’s and records at this sale run by the Friends of the Seattle Public Library. Exhibition Hall at Seattle Center.

206.386.4636 friendsofspl.org Opening of Boating Season

See the old west through the eyes of John Mix Stanley. This exhibition brings together, for the first time, works representing every aspect of his remarkable artistic career.

Tacoma Art Museum.

253.272.4258 tacomaartmuseum.org The Upside of Downsizing Conference APR 9

Think of it as right-sizing. Lighten your life and transition into a healthier and more manageable living environment. Gain more time to enjoy yourself. Speakers, exhibits, products and services. Tacoma Dome.

503.614.9778 upsideofdownsizing.com Cherry Blossom Festival

JUNE

MAY 14

Ten grand pianos, ten amazing pianists and one sensational stage—all benefiting education and community programs.

Benaroya Hall.

206.215.4747 seattlesymphony.org Folklife Festival

JUN 2–25

JUN 3

Enjoy an outdoor concert of acoustic Americana on an early summer evening after sampling from some of the best local food trucks and the beer and wine garden.

Marymoor Park.

206.205.3661 marymoorconcerts.com Sheepdogs in Action

JUN 9–12

MAY 7

Festivities include a morning of crew races and the Grand Opening Day Boat Parade.

Watch the races and the parade through the Montlake Cut near the UW. 206.979.1869 nwboatinfo.com Ten Grand Piano Concert

Paint Your Wagon

MAY 27–30

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KIM FARRELL FOR VASHON SHEEPDOG CLASSIC

Picnic in the meadow and watch the amazing working Border collies compete in the field at the Vashon Sheepdog Classic.

Visit the Fiber Arts Village for a walk on the wooly side. Weekend shuttle bus service is available from the Vashon ferry dock. Vashon Island.

206.898.3093 vashonsheepdogclassic.com Graphic Masters: 500 Years of Print Making JUN 9–AUG 28

APR 22–24

Celebrate the beautiful sakura, or cherry tree, and the culturally entertaining and educational blossom it inspires each year.

Japanese art, dance, music, food. Seattle Center.

206.624.7200 cherryblossomfest.org Taste Washington

APR 2–3

Join over 225 Washington wineries and 65 restaurants at the Grand Tasting at the CenturyLink Field Event Center. Or ‘sip’ in on the intriguing tasting seminars at Four Seasons Hotel.

425.412.7070 tastewashington.org

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3rd Act magazine | spring 2016

One of the largest free folk festivals in the country, celebrating the music, dance, stories, and art of the people of the Pacific Northwest. Featuring over 7,000 performers, workshops, crafts, food, and more. Seattle Center.

206.684.7300 nwfolklife.org

Featuring groundbreaking and timeless artists who worked in the medium of printmaking over its 500-year history. See works of Dürer, Rembrandt, Goya, Picasso, Matisse, R. Crumb. Seattle Art Museum.

206.654.3210 seattleartmuseum.org www. 3rdAct Mag.com

Paradise on Earth SPRING BLOOMS IN THE SKAGIT VALLEY

by Gretchen M. Krampf The sun is shining and Spring is in the air. Are you feeling the call of the road, a tug to slip away and head out for some drive time? When beauty calls, here are a few drives that include flowering vistas and more.

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival Originally bred by the Turks (not the Dutch), tulips were considered to be symbolic of paradise on earth.

Discover paradise right here in Western Washington. The festival runs April 1-30 with acres of fields bursting in color, art exhibits, tastings and lots to explore.

An extensive listing of activities and directions are available at tulipfestival.org.

The country roads will be busier on the weekends, so if you can visit on a weekday you’ll find it’s a more relaxed pace.

La Conner is an ideal destination for lunch, exploring shops and galleries, and strolling along the waterfront.

There is plenty of parking, and access for all levels of mobility. Directions and attractions are at lovelaconner.com Before or after the tulips, there are a number of scenic drives and more blooms to enjoy. Extend your day by taking in one of these gems:

Chuckanut Drive Just north of Burlington, on Route 11, Chuckanut Drive is a 21 mile “drive on a dramatic cliff side route that hugs the base of Chuckanut Mountain, weaving its way through evergreen forests along the rocky shoreline of Chuckanut Bay. From the oyster beds and tidal flats of the Samish lowlands, to the historic Fairhaven District of Bellingham, this

Reimagining Senior Life

byway is known for its exquisite sunsets, secluded pocket beaches, migratory birds, and communities reminiscent of early Northwest settlement.”

(WSDOT website) There are beaches, parks and extensive trails to explore, and wonderful local markets and restaurants to discover along the way.

Whidbey Island Whidbey Island

is the first island to be designated a scenic byway and is part of the Cascade Loop. Take Route 20 west to cross onto Whidbey Island using the Deception Pass Bridge. There are stunning vistas with pull-off parking to enjoy the view. Continue south on this 54-mile drive “comfortable in scale, with beaches, pastoral landscapes, watchable wildlife, historic sites and quaint pockets of civilization on and off road—a combination that entices and delights.

Add connections to the mainland by ferry and bridge and you have the Whidbey Scenic Isle Way—the shortest distance to far away.” (WSDOT website)

Meerkerk Gardens If you love

rhododendrons, make sure Meerkerk Gardens, in Greenbank on south Whidbey Island, is part of your day. Pause and explore 10 acres of display gardens with 4 miles of nature trails. It’s dog friendly, too. Bring the grandkids for Fairy Making Magic on April 23rd, noon-4:00. More info at meerkerkgardens.org.

spring 2016

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Exercise your brain and have some fun with these puzzles designed to stimulate different cognitive functions.

Rhyming Words and Phrases (easy)

All the answers in this word definition game have two-syllable or twoword answers that rhyme.

1. Magician’s phrase 2. 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. on TV 3. Compendium of recipes 4. Bag used by students to carry books 5. Portable two-way radio device 6 A VIP 7. Minor car accident 8. Exodus of an intellectual elite 9. Retrace one’s steps 10. Native American tent 11. Casino game also called Twenty-One 12. A Chinese dumpling found in soup 13. Distress call for airmen and sailors

What a Pair (hardest)

Harvard and Yale, Thunder and Lightening, Coke and Pepsi are all common pairs…but what about Wonder and Perrier? If you redefine Wonder and Perrier correctly, you’ll come up with the pairing Bread and Water.

Double Trouble (harder)

In this game we give the second half of some compound words or two word phrases. Identify the one word that precedes each of them. For example, for the words weed, coast and sick, the one word that makes each a compound word is sea (seaweed, seacoast and seasick). Hint: the first letter of each answer is provided at the bottom of the page.

1. Hound, thirsty, stream 2. Catcher, fight, wood, house 3. Mother, father, parent, stand 4. Sick, work, land, room 5. Land, berg, box, breaker 6. Hammer, ass, knife, pot 7. Beam, shine, walk, light 8. Bow, coat, drop, forest 9. Proof, melon, fall, color 10. Back, house, land, grocer 11. Quake, shaking, worm 12. Maker, stick, box, book 13. Study, wear, privileged

1. “Stop” to a film director…and…arid 2. TV’s Mr. Serling…and…a spool of film 3. A bill passed by Congress…and…a meal request to a waiter 4. A method of curing meat…and…reflective glass fixtures 5. The person who transports your belongings to a new home…and…a salt dispenser 6. Court proceeding…and…a mistake 7. Light complexion…and…a rectangle with four equal sides 8. Long jacket…and…to fasten with rope 9. The opposite of multiply…and…to vanquish 10. A physical attack…and…an energizer 11. Clara, the “It Girl”…and…a brand name of dress shirts since 1851 12. Crazy or loco…and…sliding metal bars that lock doors 13. A financial penalty or punishment…and…a man unduly devoted to fashion (Hints for Double Trouble: 1,b; 2,d; 3,g; 4,h; 5,i; 6,j; 7,m; 8,r; 9,w; 10,g; 11,e; 12,m; 13,u)

and and and and and and and and and and and and and

Answers on page 36

Reprinted with permission from Nancy Linde, author of 399 Games, Puzzles, and Trivia Challenges Specially Designed to Keep Your Brain Young, and creator of the website Never2Old4Games.com used by many senior-serving communities and organizations. Nancy’s new book, 417 More Games Puzzles and Trivia Challenges Specially Designed to Keep Your Brain Young, will be published by Workman Publishing in October 2016

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3rd Act magazine | spring 2016

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Welcome to Dolcetto Come Visit Our Newest Addition to Bothell Landing!

Construction is well under way at our Chateau Bothell Landing Campus, with our newest building, Dolcetto. Construction on Dolcetto is expected to be completed in early 2016.

Some features and amenities in our new building include: • Studio, One Bedroom and Two Bedroom Apartments • Additional Dining Room Option • Underground Parking Garage • Multi-purpose Great Room and Recreation Room • Private Conference Room & Additional Library • Functional Outdoor Space & Easy Access to Existing Campus • Beautiful Views of Sammamish River and Bothell Revitalization • Month to Month and Entrance Fee options available

Pre-sales are going on now!

RSVP: 425-485-1155 Reserve your apartment TODAY! Retirement Living, Assisted Living, Memory and Respite Care

www.ChateauRetirement.com

Live Happier, Healthier, Longer!

Village Concepts Locations Brannan Park Retirement Auburn, WA Riverside East Bothell, WA El Dorado West Burien, WA Woodland Village Chehalis, WA High Point Village Enumclaw, WA Sound Vista Village Gig Harbor, WA

Bring Retirement to Life!

Channel Point Village Hoquiam, WA Spiritwood at Pine Lake Issaquah, WA Grandview Village Marysville, WA Mill Ridge Village Milton, WA Harbor Tower Village Oak Harbor, WA Park View Villas Port Angeles, WA Country Meadow Village Sedro-Woolley, WA

1-888-548-6609

Assisted Living, Memory Care, Affordable Senior Living Community Amenities Include* Studio, 1& 2 Bedroom Floor Plans Affordable Monthly Rents

Affordable Living for Independent Seniors*

Convenient City Locations

Covington Place Senior Apartments Covington, WA

Active Social & Recreational Programs

Alder Ridge Senior Apartments Milton, WA

Small Pets Welcome

Pioneer Village Senior Apartments Moses Lake, WA *Income Qualified

Warm Home-Like Settings *Gracious Dining Services *Amenities vary by location

Three generations family owned and locally operated. www.villageconcepts.com