Aging Times Magazine - November 2022

Senior Living THAT’S A STEP ABOVE

Last month’s Message from the Founders was a focus on Breast Cancer Awareness Month. October holds a special place in all of our hearts here at Aging Times however this October became a whirlwind of a month full of flooding, storm damage, and a whole lot of chaos not just for us but for many of you. We hope you are doing well and are on a road to being back in a routine of calm and back in your everyday routine.

In the mix of all the chaos we certainly did not lose sight of the iconic month and participated in many community events and pinking out wherever possible. We want to take a moment for special recognition to the month of October. To our heroes, our family, and friends we hope you had the opportunity to celebrate in your own way. We may have lost half of our month to clean up and working through flooded homes, streets, schools being out of service and more but we certainly did not lose our fight and honor.

November however, is a time of reflection and monumental history. First and foremost, it is National Literacy Month. This month Adrienne is going to take us on an adventure through time and go back to the evolution of ink and text. Yes, I am referencing books and not just e-books we are experiencing paperback and hard cover books! I have a passion for literacy and how far it has evolved; classics like The Odyssey and A Tale of Two Cities remains two of my all-time favorites. Literacy can tell so much in so little; it can also bring us into a world that no one knows except us and the characters in our readings.

Literacy also gives us history. History like we’ve never known it before. We use these readings to tell stories and create imagery of events including some of our most important monumental moments and people, this includes our Veterans' experiences both witnessed and lived through. Veterans Day also is celebrated this month and what an appropriate time to reflect on our history and our heroes. We want to salute all of our Veterans and thank you for your service past, present, families and friends we thank you for all of your sacrifice and dedication to our country.

November is also the kick off to our holiday season. We absolutely must acknowledge Thanksgiving and the holiday season kick off. With the countdown beginning and what we hope are the best times around the corner we wish you blessings and joy in hopes you have the opportunity to be with your family, friends, and loved ones this Thanksgiving. We are blessed to have all of you in our lives and thank you for your continued support.

From Our Family to Yours;

Priscilla & Bruce Kincaid, Founders/Owners

FOUNDERS/OWNERS

Priscilla & Bruce Kincaid

MANAGING EDITOR

Priscilla Kincaid, RN, BSN, MBA

DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING Priscilla Kincaid, RN, BSN, MBA

ART DIRECTOR/GRAPHIC DESIGNER Casey Marshall

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Beth Douglas Adrienne Freeland Karen Heikkila Harry Martinez Amanda Vallone

CONTACT US

Aging Times Magazine 815 S. Volusia Ave., Suite 5 Orange City, FL 32763 Office: 386-626-2446 Email: marketing.agingtree@gmail.com www.agingtree.com Facebook.com//TheAgingTimesMagazine

For advertising inquiries, please contact Priscilla Kincaid at marketing.agingtree@gmail.com or 386-626-2446

©2022 by Aging Tree, LLC. Aging Times Magazine is the official publication of Aging Tree, LLC. All rights reserved. Contents of this publication may not be reproduced without the permission from Aging Tree, LLC.

We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding appropriate use of any treatment.

AUDIENCE VOLUSIA COUNTY

TO

LOCAL SENIOR COMMUNITIES

10,000 Americans retire everyday. 38% of Volusia County residents are 65 or older. Volusia County has one of the highest concentrations of retirees in the state.

REASONS FOR PRINT ADVERTISING

We feature local merchants and vendors, providing value with your sales message alongside other prominent businesses.

Our full color magazine is not just for advertising but an outlet for information and community news.

We showcase your business with ads, editorials, and informative articles.

Each edition reaches over 20,000 local households and businesses.

Our professional team of graphic designers create eye catching ads and editorials.

When you advertise with us for 6 or more months your business is listed free in the Senior Resource Rolodex section.

Each edition has resourceful and educational articles for seniors and their families helping them find solutions in every day living.

VA AWARDS $16 MILLION TO HELP VETERANS AND SERVICE MEMBERS PARTICIPATE IN ADAPTIVE SPORTS

The Department of Veterans Affairs awarded nearly $16 million in grants to qualifying organizations to help more than 13,000 disabled Veterans and members of the Armed Forces participate in adaptive sports.

Adaptive sports are competitive or recreational sports and activities customized to fit the needs of disabled Veterans and athletes, including Paralympic sports, archery, cycling, skiing, hunting, rock climbing and sky diving. These activities allow Veterans to rehabilitate through recreation and encourage an active and fit lifestyle.

This year, participants in VA’s Adaptive Sports Grant program also have the opportunity — for the first time ever — to receive certification in scuba, CrossFit and sailing.

“Adaptive sports empower Veterans to live without limits,” said VA National Veterans Sports Programs and Special Events Director Leif Nelson, DPT. “These Veteran athletes should be focused on having fun, staying healthy, competing, and rehabilitating – free of concern about the structural or financial challenges associated with adaptive sports – and that’s exactly what these grants will help them do.”

Navy Veteran Brad Snyder is a six-time gold medal winning Paralympic athlete who credits VA with the opportunity to participate in grant programs that support the Paralympics.

“VA’s grant program goes a long way toward alleviating the financial burdens associated with athletic competitions, paving the way for some of our country’s most promising athletes to pursue dreams of victory and success in elite competitions such as the Paralympic Games,” said Snyder.

VA has awarded a total of $100 million in adaptive sports grants in the last eight years to improve Veterans’ well-being and independence.

Learn more about the awardees and details of the program. Follow @Sports4Vets on Facebook for information on VA’s adaptive sports and arts programs. For general information or to learn how to get involved today, contact us at sports4vets@va.gov.

Office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs www.va.gov/opa/pressrel/

VETERANS AND ACTIVE-DUTY MILITARY

SOCIAL SECURITY HAS YOUR BACK!

Veterans Day is on Friday, November 11, 2022. Every year on this day, we honor all veterans who served our country and risked their lives to protect us.

Our Wounded Warriors webpage is an important resource for military members who return home with injuries. If you know a wounded veteran, please let them know about our Wounded Warriors webpage at www.ssa.gov/ woundedwarriors.

The page shares information about our Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits for veterans, including:

• How SSDI benefits are different from benefits available through the Department of Veterans Affairs and require a separate application.

• How we expedite the processing of Social Security disability claims for service members. If they develop

a disability while on active military service on or after October 1, 2001, they can file a disability claim regardless of where the disability occurs.

• Answers to questions asked about Social Security.

If active-duty military service members are unable to work due to a disabling condition and continue to receive pay while in a hospital or on medical leave, they should consider applying for SSDI. Active-duty status and receipt of military pay doesn’t necessarily prevent payment of SSDI benefits.

Our webpages are easy to share on social media and by email with your friends and family. Please consider passing this information along to someone who may need it.

Office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs www.va.gov/opa/pressrel/

The “Buddy”® Poppy has been an integral part of the VFW community for more than 95 years. As the VFW’s official memorial flower, the Poppy represents the blood shed by American service members.

The Poppy movement was inspired by Canadian Army Col. John McCrae’s famous poem, “In Flanders Fields.”

The VFW conducted its first Poppy distribution before Memorial Day in 1922, becoming the first Veterans’ organization to organize a nationwide distribution. A certificate was issued on May 20, 1924, granting the VFW all trademark rights in the name of Buddy under the classification of artificial flowers

These small but mighty memorial flowers have raised millions for the welfare of veterans and their dependents. “Buddy”® Poppies are still assembled by disabled, hospitalized, aging and needy veterans in five locations.

Auxiliaries distribute the “Buddy”® Poppy is the official flower of the VFW worn to commemorate those who died for their country.

The VFW and Auxiliary distribute poppies in exchange for charitable donations used to provide financial, social and emotional support to members and Veterans and to support the VFW National Home for Children.

Each month for the Department of Florida a newsletter is sent out by the chairperson Betty A. Bailey, sharing ideas, information about both the “Buddy”® Poppy Program and the National Home for children.

As Chairperson, Betty is available to assist any auxiliary who may need help developing their plans for distribution and use of Poppies all year long. The most important holidays for distribution are Memorial Day and Veterans Day. They are also used in memorial wreaths, Christmas trees and other areas all year long.

Local stores, grocery, gift shops, gas stations allow volunteers to distribute poppies as remembrance, many people donate to help support the “Buddy”® Poppy Program.

Monies received are specifically designated to support the National Home for Children, local veterans in need and other programs as outlined in our by laws.

If you are interested in learning more about the program all Auxiliary chairpersons are available to share information about your program to you individually or any organization.

If you would like to contact Department of Florida Chairperson, Betty A. Bailey, bann652@aol.com.

Karen Heikkila is the Historian Media Relations for District 19 in Daytona Beach. She is also Jr. Vice President, and Legislative Chairman.  Karen's passion is to serve Veterans and their families, and our community.

DO YOU KNOW THE TRUE MEANING BEHIND THE “BUDDY”® POPPY PROGRAM WHICH BOTH NATIONAL AND STATE OF FLORIDA AUXILIARIES DISTRIBUTE?

DISAGREE WITH YOUR DISABILITY DECISION? WE WILL TAKE ANOTHER LOOK

Social Security is here to help millions of people secure their today and tomorrow by providing benefits and financial protection. We continue to protect the integrity of our disability programs by ensuring we make the correct decision on each claim. However, if you disagree with the decision on your claim, you can ask for your case to be reviewed by filing an appeal.

How can I appeal Social Security’s decision on my claim?

Generally, there are four appeal levels. If you are not satisfied with the decision at one level, you may appeal to the next.

The appeal levels are:

1. Reconsideration: A reconsideration is a complete review of your claim by someone who did not take part in the first decision. We look at all the evidence submitted in the original determination, and any new evidence.

2. Hearing: If you disagree with the decision at the reconsideration level, you may ask for a hearing. An administrative law judge, who had no part in the original decision or the reconsideration of your case, conducts the hearing.

3. Appeals Council Review: If you disagree with the hearing decision, you can request a review by Social Security’s Appeals Council. The Appeals Council looks at all requests for review. They will decide whether or not there is a reason to return your case to the judge for further review.

4. Federal Court Review: If you disagree with the Appeals Council’s decision, you can file a lawsuit in a federal district court as the last level in the appeals process.

Please visit our Appeal A Decision webpage for more information at www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/appeal.html.

When should I file my appeal?

If we denied your claim, you have 60 days from the date of the notice to file an appeal. The easiest and quickest way is to file your appeal request online at www.ssa.gov/

APPEAL A DECISION

benefits/disability/appeal.html. This is where you can submit associated documents electronically. You can also call your local Social Security office or 1-800-772-1213 to obtain the forms. You can find your local office at www.ssa.gov/locator.

Do I need a representative to file an appeal?

A representative or attorney is not required to file an appeal. Whether you choose to appoint an attorney or authorized representative is completely up to you. You may choose to have someone help you with your appeal or represent you. Your representative may be a lawyer or other qualified person familiar with you and the Social Security program. We will work with your representative just as we would work with you. They can act for you in most Social Security matters, and they will receive a copy of any decisions we make about your claim.

If you need us to review your case, please go online at www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/appeal.html or call 1-800-772-1213. Please share this information with your family and friends.

Harry Martinez, Social Security District Manager

Phone: 1-866-964-7396 | www.ssa.gov

If we recently denied your claim for retirement, disability benefits, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or a nonmedical related issue, you can appeal our decision. Generally, you have 60 days after you receive the notice of our decision to ask for any type of appeal.

You can request an appeal online for a reconsideration, a hearing by an administrative law judge, and a review by the Appeals Council, even if you live outside of the United States. You will receive

confirmation online when you complete your request. When we made the first determination on your claim, we sent you a letter explaining our determination. This letter contains guidance on what level of appeal you should select.

To learn more about each appeal level, visit www.ssa.gov/appeals/ for Information About Social Security's Hearings and Appeals Process.

WHY AM I SO STRESSED?

Stress management has always been a critical health and social-related topic. Let’s face it, our mental health is dependent on being able to maintain perspective and managing life’s peaks and valleys without getting stuck in unhealthy patterns. According to a recent study by the World Health Organization, the COVID-19

pandemic has resulted in a 25% increase in prevalence of anxiety and depression worldwide.

In addition, the American Psychological Association (APA) 2020 survey reveals that Americans have been profoundly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, and that the other external factors listed in previous years as significant sources of stress have become magnified. These compounding stressors are having real consequences on our minds and bodies. Nearly 2 in 3 adults (65%) say the current amount of uncertainty in our nation also causes them stress.

12 TOP TIPS FOR HANDLING STRESS

1. Turn Off the News

While it may be beneficial to have a grasp of what is going on in the world, it is not necessary to become overwhelmed by it. Many of today’s news topics, albeit interestingly controversial, are not yours to solve. Simply put, do what you can to influence the things over which you have control, and let the rest go. Prioritize your time for things that generate feelings of well-being.

2. Take a Walk

Physical exercise releases endorphins, which trigger a positive feeling in the body, similar to that of morphine. For example, the feeling that follows a run or workout is often described as "euphoric,” known as a "runner's high," can be accompanied by a positive and energizing outlook on life. In addition, cardiovascular activity has been proven beneficial for both heart and brain health.

3. Breathe

Deep breathing and yoga breathing can have a tremendously calming effect on the body, mind and spirit. Recent evidence suggests that the practice of pranayama has positive effects on measures of clinical stress and anxiety. Slowed breathing also modulates the activity of brain regions involved in emotional processing, particularly the amygdala, anterior cingulate, anterior insula, and prefrontal cortex.

4. Count Your Blessings

A positive outlook and gratitude for what we have can create a huge shift in how we feel and what we perceive is possible. Positive energy most often yields a positive result by the simple the law of attraction. If we become focused on negatives, positives can seem nonexistent. But listing your blessings serves as a reminder of all that is good in life. Make

a list, if you need to, to remind yourself of all of the things for which you are grateful.

5. Get Creative

The National Library of Medicine states that there are measurable benefits of engaging in artistic creative activities such as making music, writing, dancing and crafts. Artistic creative activities have been shown to modulate emotions (rapidly-changing reactions to events in the external or internal environment),and result in positive mental health. Most of us can find at least one fun creative outlet if we try.

6. Listen to Your Favorite Music

The healing power of music is undeniable. Music can not only trigger powerful memories, but also boost the brain's production of the hormone dopamine. This increased dopamine production helps relieve feelings of anxiety and depression. Music is processed directly by the amygdala, which is the part of the brain involved in mood and emotions. It reduces stress.

7. Make a List of Things You Want to Do

A ‘To Do’ list is a great way to focus on the positive things you can change or accomplish. Lists are great tools for decreasing anxiety, providing structure and giving us a record of everything we've accomplished in a day. The trick is to reframe your to-do list as a set of miniature goals for the day and to think of your checklist items as steps in a plan. This is a constructive way to channel your energy.

So, what can we do to manage stress and keep a positive outlook?

8. Take a Baby Step

Plan something. Once you take a first step, you will have a sense of accomplishment. Small steps can lead to a good cycle of success breeding success as you establish habits, hit mini-goals, and note your progress. This increases confidence and can be the best way to make great strides and hold onto the gains long-term. It can be something as small as completing a household chore that you have been putting off.

9. Laugh!

A good laugh has great short-term effects and actually induces physical changes in your body. Laughter can:

• Stimulate your organs and increase your intake of oxygenrich air. It also stimulates your heart, lungs and muscles, and increases the endorphins that are released by your brain.

• Activate and relieve your stress response. A rollicking laugh fires up and then cools down your stress response, and it can increase and then decrease your heart rate and blood pressure.

10. Spend Time with Family or Friends

A Medical News Today study on social isolation concluded that “social relationship–based interventions represent a major opportunity to enhance not only the quality of life but also survival. It has been proven that spending social time with others can improve mood and reduce risk of depression, anxiety and many other mental health problems. Social connection also improves your brain performance, including

memory, and lowers your risk of developing dementia later in life.

11. Try Something New.

A famous Emily Dickinson quote comes to mind, “The only difference between a rut and a grave is the depth of the hole.” Sometimes we need to disrupt our routine, break out of our old habits, and force ourselves to leave our comfort zone. Why not do that “thing” you may have been a little hesitant to try? Seize the day! What have you got to lose, really?

12. Seek Professional Assistance

Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. For times when you cannot seem to identify effective ways to alleviate stress, seeking a mental health professional is a wise decision. A professional therapist is best suited for evaluating your symptoms helping you through the process to a better emotional state. Often times, there are recommended treatments and therapies that can allow you to live a happy, fulfilling life.

In short, mental health is as important as physical health. Do not ignore the symptoms of stress taking its toll on your mind, body, and spirit. Heart attacks, strokes, ulcers, and a host of other physical signs can indicate that you need to address the stressful conditions in your life. Don’t wait too long and allow a chronic health condition to adversely affect your life. When you make a concerted effort to address the underlying reasons for your stress, you are well on your way to a happier, more fulfilling path!

Beth Douglas is a marketing communications professional and an advocate for seniors – especially those who are living with dementia-related illness.

Factors & Prevention

Here are some factors that can increase your probably of developing breast cancer and the things YOU can do to detect or prevent it.

5-10%

of breast cancer cases are thought to be hereditary

Those who have 2 to 5 drinks daily have about 1.5x

times the risk of women who don’t drink alcohol

Physical activity in the form of exercise can reduce breast cancer risk by as much as 20%

FIND OUT YOUR FAMILY’S HISTORY OF BREAST CANCER.

LIMIT YOUR ALCOHOL INTAKE TO 1 DRINK A DAY.

To our men and women in uniform, past, present, and future, God bless you and thank you.

EXERCISE AT LEAST 150 MINUTES OF MODERATE INTENSITY ACTIVITY EACH WEEK.

NEW START DATES FOR MEDICARE PART B COVERAGE COMING

Changes are coming next year for when Medicare Part B coverage starts.

WHAT IS NOT CHANGING

If you are eligible at age 65, your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP):

• Begins three months before your 65th birthday.

• Includes the month of your 65th birthday.

• Ends three months after your 65th birthday.

If you are automatically enrolled in Medicare Part B or if you sign up during the first three months of your IEP, your coverage will start the month you’re first eligible. If you sign up the month you turn 65, your coverage will start the first day of the following month. This won’t change with the new rule.

WHAT IS CHANGING

Starting January 1, 2023, your Medicare Part B coverage starts the first day of the month after you sign up if you sign up during the last three months of your IEP.

Before this change, if you signed up during the last three months of your IEP, your Medicare Part B coverage started two to three months after you enrolled.

If you don’t sign up for Medicare Part B during your IEP, you have another chance each year during the General Enrollment Period (GEP). The GEP lasts from January 1 through March 31.

Starting January 1, 2023, your coverage starts the first day of the month after you sign up.

You can learn more about these updates on our Medicare webpage at www.ssa.gov/medicare and our Medicare publication at www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10043.pdf.

Please pass this information along to someone who may need it.

Harry Martinez, Social Security District Manager Phone: 1-866-964-7396 | www.ssa.gov

BEYOND STEM CELLS GET BACK TO LIVING YOUR LIFE

Everyone knows as you age your joints start to give you more trouble, preventing you from doing the things that you love. Playing with your grandchildren, traveling, taking walks with your spouse, playing golf, and many other activities that your painful joints are preventing you from doing.

You are probably worries and tired of taking drugs with dangerous side effects. You may have had cortisone shots which can lead to further joint destruction. You may have even been told that you will have to have dangerous joint surgery that could result in infection, serious complications and even amputation.

There is now another choice.

Dr. Joseph Rosado became medical director at Complete Wellness Medical Centers to offer responsible pain management options so that patients can avoid dangerous pain drugs and surgery. Patients can now get their life back using the latest biological treatments to improve their joint pain and function.

Here at Complete Wellness Medical Centers, we offer an alternative to drugs and surgery to get your life back and enjoy the activities you miss because of chronic joint pain. Our Joint Rescue Program uses the latest biological treatments for arthritic and “creaky” joints.

Many of our patients are returning to an active lifestyle and can now do things that they missed doing. This is an in-office procedure with no down time.

This is an elective program, and many components are not covered by insurance because the insurance companies do not care about what’s best for you.

Call now for a complementary consultation to see if you are a candidate for our Joint Rescue Program to get your life back.

To schedule your appointment, please call 386-734-2592 and consider visiting us online to learn more about what we do and help relieve pain for our patients at completewellnessmedicalcenters.com.

THE ENDURING LEGACY of the Written Word

There are two kinds of people: those who read for pleasure and those who do not. While there are certainly more nuanced ways of seeing the world and the people in it, reading books is a habit that people use to define themselves. We carry books around like trophies and stack them on shelves around our homes. The book people I know own that label with pride.

Stephen King once said, "books are a uniquely portable magic." By my estimation, that makes us all magicians. Books have the power to transport us to other realms, help us imagine ourselves in other people's shoes, and give us a better understanding of the people and places beyond where many of us will ever travel. Besides being one of our most basic forms of entertainment, books are tools that allow us to pass our histories, life lessons, and culture from generation to generation. The written word forms governments and religious bodies and has captured all modern medical research and computer design just for starters. Books make progress possible so that each generation doesn't have to start from scratch but can pick up where their forbears left off. There is no better gift we can give our children and grandchildren than the ability to read, understand, and hopefully enjoy it.

November is National Family Literacy Month®, which reminds us of the importance of making literacy a family project. Literacy is power, and people who wield the power of reading and writing will have much more opportunities as they move through the world.

Before we go any further, let's get on the same page (pun intended) about the definition of the term. Literacy is defined in two ways: the ability to read and write and competency or knowledge in a specified area. In many cases, the former makes the latter possible. There are few fields where you can achieve competency without literacy. That said, some individuals master trades or art forms without ever picking up a book on the subject. For example, the best way to learn fine woodworking or French cooking may be through hands-on experience working with a master. However, for the field of fine woodworking or French cooking to have persisted over time, someone had to write it all down.

Literacy is more profound than seeing groups of letters and knowing what words they represent. We teach our children to sing the ABCs and eventually to memorize vocabulary words. Still, it's not for years later that they understand the power of words, how to string them together to form sentences and paragraphs, and how to tell stories that matter to them. The basic understanding of language is just the beginning, but it's also the fuel that makes communication, learning, selfexpression, and art possible.

Many factors impact a person's inclination toward reading, including their level of education, their family of origin, and the area where they were raised. But there are also people for whom reading is difficult due to learning differences or because they struggle to pay attention. Audiobooks and e-readers have made books more accessible so that even self-professed non-readers can enjoy the world's most important stories.

So what's the big deal about reading anyways? Can't we get all the same information through movies or podcasts? These other forms of technology can indeed expand your vocabulary, broaden your horizons, and inspire your creativity. But reading is especially important as it can physically change your brain's structure, increase the capacity of your memory, and expand your attention span.

Reading and writing go hand in hand. Every history book, religious text, or instruction manual that has ever existed was brought to us by people who had the sense to write things down. Writing is one of our most essential forms of communication. It's a way to ensure that our thoughts, feelings, and opinions outlive us.

We write to capture our present-day experiences for generations to come, we write to communicate our feelings of love and friendship for the people in our lives, and many write for the release it provides them. Anyone who has ever journaled knows the power of writing to help process interpersonal issues or weigh the pros and cons of a big life decision. Writing down your thoughts helps you gain clarity about your life and clear the chaos from your mind onto the page. Writing is as vital to our brains as reading.

As we wind down this calendar year and welcome 2023, millions of people worldwide will make resolutions to read and write more. Motivated for millions of reasons, some will succeed, and many will not. However, the motivation to prioritize the literacy of your whole family is powerful. If your personal and family literacy is important to you, it's worth making it a resolution. Consider trying some of the following to make literacy a central feature in your personal and family life.

PERSONAL LITERACY Join a Book Club

Nothing will motivate you to read more than a monthly date on the calendar. Book clubs are a great way to make reading interactive. And you'll be amazed at how different people perceive the same text differently. Find a book club or start your own. And remember, thanks to modern technology, you can join a book club with friends located anywhere in the world.

Write Your Story

There are programs available that guide writers through a series of questions that help them tell the story of their life.

Coren

continued from page 15

But if you don't want to invest any money in this project, you can begin by writing your life story as you want your family to remember it. Whether that's in a series of letters or as a memoir, your family members will appreciate the opportunity to see life through your eyes.

FAMILY

Read a Book Aloud

Reading aloud to our children and grandchildren seems natural when they're young, but eventually, as our children age, we let that habit go and hope they'll continue to enjoy it for themselves. But what if you kept it alive? What if your family turned off technology and sat together around the living room, taking turns reading an exciting classic like The Lord of the Rings or Swiss Family Robinson? Maybe it's worth a try!

Send Snail Mail

My grandmother was known for her note-writing. From time to time, often out of the blue, I'd get a beautiful handwritten note on her personalized stationery embossed with a gold seashell. These days most of us turn to tech when we want to get ah old of someone. But I think we should bring back snail mail. Start the trend by sending out love notes to members of your family and see who writes back!

The word literacy sounds stuffy and academic. But at it’s core, Family Literacy Month® is about instilling a passion for learning in the people you love the most. Reading and writing are the calming antidotes for a world where everything is getting faster, brighter, and louder. And as with everything, literacy starts at home. If you're not already in a deep love affair with literature, I invite you to dive in and see how the positive effects ripple through your family.

Adrienne Freeland is a freelance writer who specializes in helping business owners communicate more clearly. Using skills developed in her former career as a professional fundraiser, Adrienne collaborates with her clients to craft engaging, targeted content.

ARE CIGARETTES MAKING YOU SICK?

The percentage of people who smoke cigarettes has decreased every decade since the 1940s, thanks to a change in public perception. Many of you remember a time when cigarette brands advertised being “doctor recommended,” leading people to believe smoking was in their best interest. Today, all cigarettes produced in the United States come with a cancer warning.

In the last 40 years, the percentage of Americans who smoke has dropped by more than half from 32% to 12%. As much progress as we’ve made in warning people about the risks associated with smoking, many Americans still pay the price. One common health complication of cigarette smoking is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or COPD.

COPD is an umbrella term referring to a group of diseases that block airflow and make breathing difficult for patients. The two most common COPD conditions are emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Common symptoms of COPD are shortness of breath, chest tightness, chronic cough, and frequent respiratory infections. If you or someone you know have any of these symptoms, we urge you to speak with your doctor.

Cigarette smoking is the cause of nine out of ten cases of COPD. Therefore, we can definitively say that the best way to avoid COPD is to avoid smoking. Unfortunately, for many, smoking cigarettes is a habit that is very hard to shake. Nicotine has been proven to be as addictive as drugs like cocaine or heroin, which is why so many people struggle to quit even when they know the risks.

Smoking cessation programs are a great way to get the support you need to quit smoking for good. Speak with your doctor or insurance company to determine your eligibility for such a program. Here are some important tips to help you quit smoking:

• avoid the things that trigger you to smoke,

• try nicotine products like gums or patches,

• develop new, healthier habits like exercise or meditation.

Unfortunately, you can’t go back and undo years of cigarette smoking, but you can start today before COPD keeps you from living the life you love.

Adrienne Freeland is a freelance writer who specializes in helping business owners communicate more clearly. Using skills developed in her former career as a professional fundraiser, Adrienne collaborates with her clients to craft engaging, targeted content.

HOLIDAY TRAVEL

It’s also the time of year that we get together with our loved ones and remember those whom we’re unable to celebrate with anymore. In our line of business, we’re very lucky. We get to plan memorable adventures and exciting events for our clients and explorers. But we also hear them during these more joyous times of year recalling their grief of loved ones lost and the difficulty it causes to enjoy the same traditional version of a holiday celebration.

We work with plenty of clients booking their airline tickets to visit family for the holidays and helping others get their families to Florida for a visit. But many of our other Explorers decide to get out and see the world during this season. Our Annual Thanksgiving Cruise hosts on average 70+ locals year after year, making it our most festive holiday tradition.

We usually cruise on a premium cruise line for between 10-14 days in the Caribbean. The trip always starts for our Explorers on either a bus that picks up from a local community like John Knox Village or a bus leaving from our Roseborough Travel office in DeLand. On the 3-4 hour journey to Fort Lauderdale or Miami, we get to know one another, start our morning off with mimosas and doughnuts, and make our way as a group to the pier. What better way is there to start off a holiday journey?

This year, we‘ll be boarding a Celebrity Cruise ship and cruising to St. Kitts, Barbados, Martinique, and Antigua. Our group will be hosted by Alyssa Lovejoy from our office, one of our amazing advisors who will organize dinners for the group, an exclusive cocktail party, special shore side events, and so much more.

For our Explorers, they can simply sit back and enjoy their holiday. Everyone is always especially happy to not need to cook or clean up after the big Turkey Day feast. They’re also happy to enjoy a bit of the world around them and then come back to eat dinner with travelers they‘ve gotten to know and become friends with.

If getting out of the house during the holidays is something you’re interested in, we host a Thanksgiving Cruise every year. We would love to have you join us next year when we cruise from Fort Lauderdale to St. Maarten, St. Lucia, Tobago, and Antigua.

Amanda Vallone is the co-owner of Roseborough Travel Agency in DeLand. She is passionate about helping people experience the world around them. She was awarded and or recognized for the 40 under 40, President’s Excellence in Business, Future Leaders in Travel, Best Travel Advisor, and Best of the Best awards over the last 10 years.

Your

Vacation

Priority.

Now is the time of year we’re all getting into our pumpkin spice lattes, decorating for the season, and getting into the holiday spirit.

Timothy E. Parker

To

SUDOKU

HOW TO PLAY SUDOKU

goal of Sudoku is to fill in a 9x9 grid with digits so that each column, row, and 3x3 section contain the numbers between 1 to 9. At the beginning of the game, the 9x9 grid will have some of the squares filled in. Your job is to use logic to fill in the missing digits and complete the grid. Don’t forget, a move is incorrect if:

Any row contains more than one of the same number from 1 to 9

Any column contains more than one of the same number from 1 to 9

Any 3x3 grid contains more than one of the same number from 1 to 9

MONTH’S ANSWERS

THANKSGIVING SIDE DISHES

SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE

You won’t miss the marshmallows in this savory sweet potato casserole. Topped with a creamy, gingery layer of sweet potatoes with a crisp, toasty pecan crumble and plenty of fresh herbs.

Ingredients

5 large sweet potatoes

1 tablespoon extravirgin olive oil, more for drizzling

1 1/4 cup almond milk, more if necessary

1 teaspoon ground ginger

3/4 teaspoon sea salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 cup fresh sage leaves

Crumble Topping

2/3 cup whole rolled oats

1/2 cup pecans, more for garnish

1/2 cup walnuts, more for garnish

1 garlic clove

1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon maple syrup

2 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme leaves

1/2 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary

1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and brush an 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil.

2. Use a fork to poke a few holes into the sweet potatoes. Place on the baking sheet and roast until very tender, about 60 minutes.

3. Make the crumble topping: In a food processor, place the oats, pecans, walnuts, garlic, maple syrup, olive oil, thyme, rosemary, and salt and pulse until just combined. Remove and set aside.

4. Scoop the cooked sweet potato flesh out of the skins and place in a food processor. Add the olive oil, almond milk, ginger, salt, and pepper and process to combine. Spread the mixture into the baking dish.

5. Sprinkle with the crumble topping, additional nuts, and sage. Drizzle with olive oil and bake 20 minutes or until the topping is browned and crisp.

JALAPEÑO CORNBREAD

This sweet and spicy jalapeño cornbread recipe is a perfect side dish for soup or chili. Tip: slather your slice with honey butter to take it over the top!

Ingredients

1 cup cornmeal

1 cup plus 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon sea salt

¼ teaspoon baking soda

1 cup almond milk

1 large egg

¼ cup maple syrup

¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil or any neutral oil

4 scallions, chopped, reserve some for topping

¾ cup seeded diced jalapeño peppers, 2 to 3 peppers, reserve some for topping

¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 tablespoon butter, for greasing the pan honey butter, for serving

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F with a 10-inch cast-iron pan inside.

2. In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.

3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond milk, egg, maple syrup, and oil.

4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the scallions, jalapeños, and cheese.

5. Remove the preheated skillet from the oven using an oven mitt (be careful because the handle will be hot!) and grease it with the butter.

6. Pour the batter into the pan, sprinkle with the remaining scallions and jalapeños, and bake for 20 to 24 minutes or until the center springs back to the touch and a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

source: www.loveandlemons.com/thanksgiving-side-dishes/

Does your family have a "go-to" family recipe and a story to share?

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If you have a recipe to share and a story please submit via email to marketing.agingtree@gmail.com. We want to share your story and recipe with our readers!

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ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITIES

Addington Place of Titusville 563-677-6324 www.seniorlifestyle.com

Alliance Community 386-734-3481 www.alliancecommunity.org

Bishop’s Glen 386-226-9110 bishopsglen.org

Summerhaven Assisted Living 386-668-3674 www.summerhavenassistedliving.com

The Cloisters 386-822-6900 thecloistersretirement.org

The Groves at Alliance Community 386-734-3481 www.alliancecommunity.org/assisted-living

ASSISTED LIVING PLACEMENT & CARE MANAGEMENT

Aging Tree LLC 386-626-2446 www.agingtree.com

CHIROPRACTIC ORTHOPEDIC

Complete Wellness Medical Centers 386-734-2592 www.completewellnessdeland.com

COMPANION SERVICES

No Place Like HomeMaker Companion Services, LLC 386-414-9787 www.homemakercompanionservices.com

ELDER LAW ATTORNEY

Akin Law 386-738-5599 www.akin-law.com

Meeks & Ceely, PL Coren J. Meeks 386-734-0199 www.meeksandceely.com

The Law Offices of Michael Newman 407-413-2588 www.newmanlaworlando.com

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Allen’s Appliance Service 386-668-5441 www.allensapplianceservice.com

Install Don’t Fall 407-496-6066 www.installdontfall.com

INDEPENDENT SENIOR LIVING

Bishop’s Glen 386-226-9110 bishopsglen.org

The Cloisters 386-822-6900 thecloistersretirement.org

Villa Grande on Saxon 386-774-1234 www.villagrandeonsaxon.com

INSURANCE

WellCare Health Plans 407-212-1476 (TTY 711. www.wellcarenow.com

MEMORY CARE

Addington Place of Titusville 563-677-6324 www.seniorlifestyle.com

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

Athens Theatre 386-736-1500 www.athensdeland.com

Barberville Pioneer Settlement 386-749-2959 www.pioneersettlement.org

Elder Source 904-391-6699 www.myeldersource.org

Habitat for Humanity DeLand 386-734-7268 www.wvhabitat.org

MainStreet DeLand Association www.mainstreetdeland.org 386-738-0649

Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center 386-676-3375 www.ormondbeach.org/PAC

The Neighborhood Center of West Volusia & Thrift Store 386-734-8120 https://neighborhoodcenterwv.org

West Volusia Tourism 386-734-0162 www.visitwestvolusia.com

PODIATRIST

Roy Rothman, DPM 386-753-1918 www.rothmandpm.com

PRIMARY CARE PARTNERS

Conviva Care Center 844-910-0332 www.meetconviva.com

TRANSPORTATION

DeBary Sunrail Station 1-855-RAIL-411 (724-5411) www.sunrail.com/station/debary/

TRAVEL AGENCY

Roseborough Travel Agency 386-734-7245 www.roseboroughtravel.com

CLASSIFIEDS

List Your Classified 35 words $25 a month

To submit ad, email marketing.agingtree@gmail.com with your ad typed out, including phone number. Distributed to more than 450 locations throughout Volusia County.

INDUSTRY JOBS

Caregivers N eeded: No Place Like Home - Maker Companion is growing and seeking Caregivers for immediate placement! Do you have a passion or drive to want to help seniors in their home? Responsibilities may include light housekeeping, supervision, laundry, and of course companionship to name a few. Experience with references and a valid driver's license is a must. Call 386-414-9787.

ITEMS FOR SALE

Used Books: The Book Nest used book store in Deltona Library is open every day. Something for everyone: kids, teens, large print, paperback and hardbacks. Also DVDs and CDS. All proceeds support library programs. Deltona Library, 2150 Eustace Ave., Deltona, 386-624-8767.

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