Young at Heart

Young at Heart

News Photo by James Andersen Marcy Sherman shares a laugh during a round of duplicate bridge. Sherman learned the game playing with neighbors and said it helps keep her mind sharp.

S U P P L E M E N T T O T H E A L P E N A N E W S • T H U R S D A Y, D E C E M B E R 9 , 2 0 2 1

‘It’s good for your brain’

DUPLICATE BRIDGE CLUB KEEPS ITS MEMBERS ON THEIR TOES

By JAMES ANDERSEN Assistant Managing Editor ALPENA – On a recent Monday afternoon in Alpena, a group of seniors broke out decks of cards, score sheets, bidding boxes, and brainpower for some friendly competition.

This is the Alpena Duplicate Bridge Club, a group of more than a dozen dedicated players from around Northeast Michigan who gather every Monday in Al-

memory, good communication, sound strategy, and skill.

“It’s competitive, and you have to pay attention,” longtime club member Marcy Sherman said.

Played with four players in two competing partnerships, duplicate bridge is a complicated

pena

to play.

Though it’s commonly thought of as a game for older people, duplicate bridge can challenge anyone and keeps a player’s mind active, club members said. Success requires a strong

News Photos by James Andersen A hand of cards is shown during a round of duplicate bridge. The game requires good memory, good communication, and skill to be successful.

An Alpena Duplicate Bridge Club member keeps score during a game on a recent Monday. ____________________________________________

game that involves bids on the number of tricks a pair intends to take, a 13-card hand for each of four positions, and a special

board. After a number of rounds,players rotate among tables to ensure each pair plays the same hands during a session. Final scores are tallied after comparing a player’s result against other players who played the same hand.

Partners silently communicate during an auction about their hands and how the suits will be distributed as they try to fulfill what’s called a contract.

Sherman is one of several longtime players who taught herself the game. She played with neighbors in

Grand Rapids and said the game helps keep her mind sharp.

“Myself, I used to work at mental health, and one of the docs there made the comment 20 years ago, ‘Keep doing it, it’s good for your brain.’” Sherman said. “And it is. It makes you think.”

Through the years, the club has moved around to different Alpena venues, but it’s still going strong after more than four decades. Club members range

in age from 60 to 90, but have played for years and formed long-lasting friendships.

One couple even makes the drive from Harrisville to play each week.

As rounds pass, talk of competition and laughter fill the air. Longtime friends catch up on life events, asking each other about Thanksgiving festivities. More rounds pass and the chatter quiets down as games become more competitive.

It’s all in fun, but -- make no mistake -- players want to win.

“That’s what keeps it interesting,” member Beverley Rousseau said. “It’s not boring, that’s for sure. And it’s very competitive.”

Rousseau, who is Sherman’s playing partner, is also self-taught and remembers sitting around a picnic table on camping trips with friends, playing the game.

Even with her decades of experience, Rousseau said, she still always finds something new to learn, which she said keeps the game fun.

Asked what keeps her playing, Rousseau said “the challenge.”

“No matter how much you’ve played,” she said, “you always come up with a hand you don’t know what to do with, one that you have to stop and think about it.”

News Photo by James Andersen Beverley Rousseau studies her hand during a round of duplicate bridge on a recent Monday. Rousseau is one of many longtime members of the Alpena Duplicate Bridge Club, which has existed for several decades and meets once a week to play.

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News Photos by James Andersen Top: Beverley Rousseau readies bridge boards before a meeting of the Alpena Duplicate Bridge Club on Monday. Bottom: A pair of duplicate bridge players are pictured on a recent Monday. Over more than four decades, the Alpena Duplicate Bridge Club has moved around to different locations in Alpena and its members have formed long-lasting friendships from playing together over the years.

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Upgrade bathroom safety features Bathrooms can benefit from updates that improve their form and function. While styles and color patterns may inspire bathroom renovations, improvements to safety also should be considered.

Bathrooms can be one of the most dangerous rooms in a house.

Bath and shower areas account for about two-thirds of accidental injuries in these spaces. Many other injuries involve the toilet. In 2008, a thorough investigation of bathroom dangers conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that mishaps near the bathtub, shower, toilet, and sink caused an estimated 234,094 nonfatal injuries in the United States among people aged 15 years and older.

Seniors are particularly vulnera-

ble in the bathroom due to reduced mobility and flexibility, visual impairment and other factors. However, some key modifications can make bathrooms much safer for aging populations.

• Raised toilet seat: Install an ADA-compliant raised toilet seat.

Standard toilet seats are roughly 15 inches high, but elevated seats can raise the bowl an additional two to four inches. Another option is to invest in risers that can be attached to an existing toilet.

• Grab bars: Seniors may use towel holders as grab bars, which don’t have stability and can dislodge from the wall. Install secured side grip bars by the toilet and inside the shower to make maneuvering easier.

• Water temperature: Seniors

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may be vulnerable to hot water temperatures. Lower the water temperature setting on the hot water heater. StaySafe.org recommends 120 F. • Faucets: Change faucet handles to paddle-style handles rather than knobs. Knobs can be challenging to grip for those with arthritis in their hands. Also, handles that are easier for seniors to use can reduce the risk of the elderly losing their balance as they attempt to gain leverage to turn the water on and off.

• Nonslip mats: Nonslip mats or tape strips can be used in showers and tub bottoms, as well as outside of the shower to reduce the risk of slips and falls. Rugs should have rubberized, slip-resistant backing.

• Rounded corners: Choose counters and fixtures with rounded corners. Should a senior fall against something, the rounded corner may prevent serious injury.

• Shower benches and transfer seats: Benches and transfer seats make it easier getting in and out of the shower. Also, sitting while showering reduces the risk of becoming light-headed or losing balance.

• Walk-in tubs/showers: Minimizing the threshold to the shower or bathtub is an important safety feature. Some manufacturers make walk-in tubs with doors that secure and make watertight seals. Showers that don’t have a lip or tub to scale also are better for seniors.

• Lighting: Eyesight weakens over time, so improve lighting with combinations of overhead lighting and softer side lighting. Night lights or soft-glowing toilet lights can make it easier to get around the bathroom in the middle of the night.

These are just some improvements that can create safer bathroom environments for seniors.

How aging adults can maintain a healthy weight Calorie-counting and watching one’s weight is often seen as a young person’s game. But even aging men and women should recognize the importance of maintaining a healthy weight.

Older adults may experience weight gain or unintentional weight loss. Understanding how to address each in healthy ways is important.

Weight loss tips More than two-thirds of Americans, including adults age 65 and older, are overweight and obese, according to U.S. News & World Report. A combination of factors can contribute to weight gain in older adults, including a slower metabolism and a tendency to be more sedentary with age. Empty nesters also may be less likely to cook their own meals, relying on convenience foods — some of which may be high in fat and/or calories.

Sustained healthy weight at any age is linked to improved heart health, mental health benefits like

increased self-confidence, healthy joints, and much more. These tips can help aging individuals maintain healthy weights.

• Incorporate strength or resistance training into your weekly routine. Hormone production slows down as the body ages, and that may result in a loss of muscle mass.

Lifting weights or engaging in resistance training with elastic bands or body weight can restore muscle tone and speed up metabolism. Adults should aim for strength training twice a week.

• Monitor sugar and starch intake. Many older adults have elevated blood sugar levels due to insulin resistance. When cells become resistant to insulin, glucose doesn’t get used up and remains in the blood.

Eventually this can lead to pre-diabetes, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. Many people with these conditions have a hard time losing weight. Avoiding added sugars and extra carbohydrates could help.

• Practice portion control. A 60-year-old can’t eat the same way he or she did at age 30 or 40. Nutritionists say that, with every decade that passes, people generally need about 100 fewer calories a day to maintain their weights. Cutting calories slowly and steadily helps people maintain healthy weights, especially when they couple this with exercise.

Avoiding malnutrition-related weight loss Malnutrition is a common component in unintentional weight loss in aging populations. Reduction in senses of small and taste, smaller appetites and lack of desire to make meals can contribute to malnutrition and weight loss. Underlying

health problems also may lead to unwanted and unhealthy weight loss. Tracking weight loss and getting sufficient nutrients is vital to aging adults’ overall health.

A 2014 study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that having a body mass index at the lower end of the recommended age for adults increased risk for mortality more so than being overweight. Individuals whose BMI is less than 23 could be putting themselves in jeopardy.

Older adults need to adjust their routines as they age in order to maintain healthy weights. Such adjustments can reduce seniors’ risk for disease and improve their quality of life.

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How to plan for medical emergencies Medical emergencies pose a significant threat to human health. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, unintentional injuries accounted for more than 192,000 deaths in 2020. That marks a significant increase since 2015, when NCHS data indicates roughly 146,000 people died from unintentional injuries.

Unintentional injuries are not the only situations that qualify as medical emergencies, which also can result from sudden, life-threatening issues like heart attack or stroke. Knowing what to do in the wake of a medical emergency can reduce the likelihood that such instances end in tragedy.

And though medical emergencies might be most often associated with aging men and

women, such scenarios can affect anyone at any time. That means it’s in everyone’s best interest to learn how to plan for medical emergencies.

• Document your medical history and keep printed documentation in an easily accessible place. Younger individuals likely won’t have as much documentation regarding their medical histories, including existing conditions, medications and even previous emergencies. But all individuals should print out a document that includes a brief rundown of their medical histories, and keep the document in an easily accessible place so caretakers, spouses or roommates can quickly find it and share all relevant information with first responders.

• Pack an overnight bag. Aging men and women or young people with a history of illness and/or medical emergencies should pack an overnight bag or ask their caretakers to pack one for them. Include pajamas, personal toiletries and other care items, and even some books or activity books so you have something to do should you require an extended stay in the hospital. Include a spare phone or device charger in your overnight bag, as it’s easy to forget such items when you’re hurrying out the door in an emergency situation.

• Become CPR-certified. The medical experts at MedStar Health recommend that individuals take classes for first aid and CPR. Such lessons can save lives and help anyone experiencing a medical emergency get immediate attention until first responders arrive to administer additional care.

Some organizations may offer free CPR courses, while others, including the American Red Cross, offer training at affordable prices.

• Map out the quickest route to the nearest emergency room. Modern drivers are accustomed to relying on their car’s GPS systems to get from point A to point B. However, during a medical emergency it’s ideal if individuals or caretakers already know where the nearest hospital is and how to get there. That removes uncertainties from the situation and ensures that precious seconds won’t be wasted trying to get devices to connect with automobiles.

Medical emergencies can affect anyone at any time. Knowing what to do in such situations can save lives and increase the chances of a positive outcome.

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What are the warning signs of a medical emergency?

No two medical emergencies are the same. But the American College of Emergency Physicians notes that the following are some warning signs of a medical emergency: • Bleeding that will not stop • Breathing problem, such as difficulty breathing and shortness of breath • Change in mental status, such as unusual behavior, confusion or difficulty arousing • Chest pain • Choking • Coughing up or vomiting blood • Fainting or loss of consciousness • Feelings of committing suicide or murder • Head or spine injury • Severe or persistent vomiting • Sudden injury due to a motor vehicle accident, burns or smoke inhalation, near drowning, deep or large wound, or other injuries • Sudden, severe pain anywhere in the body • Sudden dizziness, weakness, or change in vision • Swallowing a poisonous substance • Severe abdominal pain or pressure

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Common side effects of medications and supplements Health professionals recommend a bevy of medications to their patients when they the benefits of such remedies outweigh the possible risks. The same can be said for vaccinations and other health therapies, such as vitamin and mineral supplementation.

While supplements and medications are safe when taken as directed, they still have the potential to cause some unwanted side effects .

Over-the-counter medicines, prescriptions or even herbal dietary supplements can cause side effects. WebMD notes that most of these effects are minor and may only be a temporary inconvenience. But some side effects may be more serious.

Recognizing common side effects may not make them easier to confront, but it can give people an idea of what to expect.

WebMD, the DNA testing firm Sequencing and the healthcare services research experts at Sehat report that the following are some common side effects of medications and supplements.

Drowsiness Drowsiness is often associated with antihistamines, anti-tussive (cough) medicines and muscle relaxants. Drowsiness can be exacerbated if medications are mixed with alcohol.

Skin rashes and dermatitis Some topical medications, supplements and other medicines may lead to rashes or itchiness. A rash may be an indication of an allergic reaction. Severe allergic skin reactions may warrant cessation of certain medications and such side effects should be discussed with a doctor immediately. Vaccines also may cause pain or itching at injection sites, but that irritation tends to recede quickly.

Confusion or restlessness Medications such as decongestants may increase blood pressure and contribute to confusion, restlessness, and even insomnia.

Decongestants, when taken in high doses, also can cause an intoxicating high, which is why they are so heavily regulated.

Stomach discomfort Since most drugs and supplements need Weight gain to go through the gastrointestinal system to Certain medications, particularly those be absorbed, stomach discomfort, constipation and nausea can occur. This is one rea- that adjust hormone levels like contracepmodern drug store you areanti-anxiety and antidepresson whyThe experts typically recommend tak-where tives and many ing antibiotics, whichwith can cause indigestion sant medications, can lead to weight gain. greeted a friendly and diarrhea, with food. The vitamins and Medications and supplements are often minerals in multivitamins also can cause the most effective way to help individuals stomach discomfort. Non-steroidal anti- confront issues regarding their physical and inflammatory drugs may cause the forma- mental health. However, if any side effects tion of gastric ulcerspartnered and stomachwith bleeding becometobothersome, individuals should Has now a company when taken for extended periods of time. speak with a healthcare provider to find out dispense Specialty Drugs that require if there is an alternative or if the medicaattentive handling, administration tion should be discontinued.

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