March 2013 Senior Living Magazine by INSPIRED 55+ Lifestyle Magazine

MARCH 2013

50+ Active Living Magazine

A Passion for Food

INSIDE

Author Patrick Taylor

Look for our new

Caregiving Guide

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MARCH 2013

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FEATURES

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Las Vegas ﬁrst-timers pack in enough adventure to keep them buzzing long after the visit ends.

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DEPARTMENTS

10 Looking After Mom

4 The Family Caregiver

13-22 Caregiving Guide

Resources and relevant articles for family caregivers.

by Barb MacLean

38 Bygone Treasures by Michael Rice

23 Caring for the Caregivers

46 Fit for the Adventure

Caring for a loved one can cause stress, fatigue and anxiety, but numerous resources exist to help maintain physical and mental health.

by Eve Lees

48 Forever Young

30 An Irish Country Author

by William Thomas

Highly successful medical professional Patrick Taylor is also a New York Times bestselling author.

52 Reﬂections: Then & Now by Gipp Forster

34 An Island of Peace

Mexico’s La Paz is a place not yet overrun by tourists, despite its 340 days of sunshine per year.

40 The Dahlia Chef

Connie Young-Davis is an executive chef in the kitchen and an award-winning dahlia grower in the garden.

42 Dining Out in Vancouver

Cover: In this issue, ﬁnd resources and recognition for caregivers in our new Caregiving Guide, starting on page 13. Photo: Sandy McElroy Photography

A couple of true-blue foodies hit the palate-pleasing path of the annual Dine Out Vancouver Festival.

44 Multicultural Cuisine

Chef Jini Aroon offers tantalizing courses in Indian Ayurvedic-style cooking, Thai cooking and healthy-licious eating.

Senior Living is distributed at all BC Pharmasave locations.

Senior Living is published by Stratis Publishing.

Editor Bobbie Jo Reid editor@seniorlivingmag.com

SENIOR LIVING

COLUMNS

Whether caring for an aging parent close to home or at a distance, the steps are similar.

Publisher Barbara Risto

47 Classiﬁeds 51 BBB Scam Alert

6 Footloose in Fun City

Head Ofﬁce Contact Information: Box 153, 1581-H Hillside Ave., Victoria BC V8T 2C1 Phone 250-479-4705 Fax 250-479-4808 Toll-free 1-877-479-4705

Advertising Manager Barry Risto 250-479-4705 ext 101 For advertising information, call 250-479-4705 sales@seniorlivingmag.com

E-mail ofﬁce@seniorlivingmag.com Website www.seniorlivingmag.com

Ad Sales Staff Colevin Crause 250-479-4705 ext 103 Mathieu Powell 250-479-4705 ext 104 Barry Risto 250-479-4705 ext 101

No portion of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. Senior Living is an independent publication and its articles imply no endorsement of any products or services. The views expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publisher. Unsolicited articles are welcome and should be e-mailed to editor@seniorlivingmag. com Senior Living is distributed free throughout British Columbia. Stratis Publishing Ltd. publishes Senior Living (12 issues per year). ISSN 17103584 (Print) ISSN 1911-6403 (Online)

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MARCH 2013

THE FAMILY CAREGIVER

THE FAMILY CAREGIVING GUIDE Dedicated to All the Unsung Heros

e are excited to offer something new for all of our unsung heroes in British Columbia – the one million family members and friends who are caregiving. This is for our daughters, sons, spouses, siblings, grandparents, friends and neighbours who, in the face of disease, disability and aging, provide over 80 per cent of the care at home when we need it. The Caregiving Guide contained in this issue (starting on page 13) comes to you in the spirit of true partnership. Senior Living is publishing and distributing the Guide and the Family Caregivers’ Network Society (FCNS) is responsible for the editorial content. We are grateful to have so many contributors lined up from all corners of the province, from other caregiver support programs and researchers to health authorities and freelance writers. At the Family Caregivers’ Network, we focus on issues of concern to family caregivers – education, support, information and working to improve “the system.” We’ve been doing this for 24 years and, in this time, have been dreaming of reaching more people so no one cares alone. Senior Living magazine is bringing this dream closer to reality by offering the Caregiving Guide as part of the

March and September issues. As publishers of Senior Living magazine and as family caregivers themselves, Barbara and Barry Risto saw a way to meet the growing, urgent need caregivers have for information and support. Their vision of a better future paired with the success of Senior Living’s popular Housing Edition led us to this collaboration. A family caregiver shared these encouraging words: “The Caregiving Guide is a fantastic idea, go for it!” And so we are. We hope you find the March and September issues helpful. For everyone who cares, know that you are not alone. Barb MacLean Executive Director Family Caregivers’ Network Society

Barbara & Barry Risto Publishers & Family Caregivers Senior Living

Resources: www.familycaregiversnetwork.org

The Family Caregiver column is brought to you by the generous sponsorship of Saint Elizabeth

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MARCH 2013

Travel & Adventure

Footloose in Fun City BY RICK & CHRIS MILLIKAN

as Vegas is pretty exciting for first-timers like us! Our days overflow with adventures. And in this “Broadway of the West,” musicals fill three evenings. One of Cirque du Soleil’s seven Las Vegas productions, Love, kicks off our visit. Bobbies seat us above a circular stage for this Beatle’s extravaganza. Scenes of war-torn England quickly dissolve as swirling dancers, acrobats and soaring aerialists portray early crowd-pleasers: Get Back, Eleanor Rigby, I Am the Walrus and Hey Jude! Trampolinists, break-dancers and in-line skaters rocket us straight into Revolution! Intricately choreographed, performers hover, whirl and beguile everyone through magical vignettes interpreting further lyrical hits. Sergeant Pepper’s troupe marches us into the rainbow era of peace and love; a kaleidoscope of artistes presents a resplendent Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds, Lady Madonna and sumptuous Octopus’s Garden! Interspersed film clips add the Beatles’ zany presence to this spectacle. John, Paul, George and Ringo are imagined loudly applauding Cirque’s lavish, artistic celebration of their music, just as we do. The following night, Jersey Boys re-enacts early gigs, highjinx… and jail terms of another renowned ’60s quartet. Led by Frankie Valli’s angelic falsetto, we see him and his harmonious buddies struggle from bowling alleys to recording studios… and huge success as the Four Seasons. Chart-toppers such as Big Girls Don’t Cry; Walk Like a Man and Sherry wow us. Overcoming serious setbacks, they teach us tough life lessons, intensified through their heart-wrenching melodies. After the group breaks up, studio managers consistently reject a ballad written for Frankie. Eventually accepted, Frankie records My Eyes Adored You, his biggest selling solo record. Incredibly inspiring, Jersey Boys ends on a high note, delighting us all! And Donnie and Marie proves an extraordinary nightclub show. During a dynamic opening filled with new songs and dance numbers, these show biz icons never looked better! Country specialist Marie even reveals her love of opera with a beautiful aria from Puccini’s Turando. Family slides and videos accompany songs from both triumphant careers. As sis belts out Paper Roses and brother Puppy Love, nostalgic clips show them introducing these hits as teens. In honouring mentor Andy Williams, Donnie croons, Moon River as we watch him on William’s show at age five… and 68

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funny shticks of sibling rivalry lead into familiar duets from their long-running TV program. During a standing ovation, Chris quips, “Y’know, after 50 years’ practice… they SHOULD be this great!” Las Vegas also offers haute cuisine. Joining the new foodie generation, we sample nouveau vittles. At Mirage’s Japonais, we savour succulent sushi; at the Aria’s Juan Serranos, authentic Spanish tapas with luscious sangrias. Even the ambiences are extraordinary! The Aria offers a hotel art walk; Serranos’ restrooms provide amusing Spanish lessons. At Paris Las Vegas, we sup under bluesky ceilings at Le Burger, a sidewalk café. Later, we admire panoramas of the glittering downtown from its faux Eiffel Tower. At Caesar’s Palace, we dine in a pseudo Roman city beside Trevi Fountain. Following fresh pasta here, we sample tiramisu, spumoni… and even icecream spaghetti with dark chocolate meatballs. Leaving through glittering hallways and mall-ways of statuary, we notice that Fountain of the Gods delivers sound and light shows starring an animated Bacchus, Venus, Apollo and Pluto. And buffets still flourish. Inside Travel writers turned tourists in Sin City. Caesar’s Palace, Bacchanal’s master chefs offer global menus. Show kitchens offer scrumptiously fresh Mexican, Italian, Chinese, Japanese and American specialties; other stations prepare seafood, pizza, deli fare and desserts. One night, we walk the famous Vegas Strip. Starting at Treasure Island, we watch a ghost ship’s girly go-go crew battle acrobatic buccaneers from an oncoming red-sailed pirate ship in flashy, splashy and explosive entertainment! Onward, amusing buskers line bustling sidewalks: Batman and the Joker, Sci-fi Transformers, Smurfs, a Grinch and, of course, pompadored Elvises. At Fountains of Bellagio, we see the hotel take on a purple hue above its eight-acre lake. Over a thousand computer-syncopated nozzles blast sparkling, dancing streams, some leaping over fivestories as Andrea Bocelli and Sarah Brightman passionately sing Con Te Partiro. Spanning busy intersections on pedestrian bridges, we encounter folk guitarists, frenzied drummers, a string quartet and kilted piper. Beyond New York, New York complete with Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty, our three-kilometre stroll concludes at MGM Grand… in our home suite home. Visiting old downtown, vintage Vegas proves another winsome activity. Fremont Street now bustles as a pedestrian mall; zipliners fly like birds above us. Inside the refurbished D Hotel, we find Ne-

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vada’s longest bar and antique coin games, including a miniature, mechanical horserace; one gregarious group cheers on tiny jockeys racing around the track. Just past the Neon Museum, the former courthouse, now the home of the new Mob Museum, beckons. Exhibits there detail Mafia history, how gangsters flourished during prohibition… and how even Al Capone funded a popular soup kitchen. Some visitors pose against a replicated bullet-studded wall of the St. Valentine’s Day massacre, where Capone eliminated seven Chicago competitors. A bystander snaps our picture as gun moll and wise guy in a mock line-up. Upstairs we watch movie footage of Senator Kefauver grilling gangsters during his famed hearings in the old courtroom.

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Photos: Rick & Chris Millikan

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Chris on a raft approaching the Hoover Dam.

One room features another crime fighter Elliot Ness and his surveillance techniques, such as wiretapping. Another highlights gangster movies. Interestingly, three films portray “connected” locals. Bugsy depicts Bugsy Siegel, who famously boosted Las Vegas development while managing the Flamingo Hotel for Lansky’s National Crime Syndicate. And in The Godfather, Mario Puzo based characters Moe and Johnny Fontane on the real lives of Bugsy Siegal and Frank Sinatra. Casino reveals the life of Chicago’s Lefty Rosenthal, who secretly ran the Stardust, while safely residing near “the action” inside the local gated Country Club. And the spas! Masseurs give us soothing rubdowns. Aromatic lemongrass and new age music accentuate healing touches proven to enhance blood circulation. While kneading out knots, one tells us that Bob Hope enjoyed daily massages – and lived to be 100! Another spa offers yoga with dolphins. Instructor Willow ex-

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Great ways to explore Saanich trails & parks, get some exercise and meet new people. No registration required.

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Sunday Hike 1:00-3:30pm

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Call for info: 250-475-5408 www.saanich.ca

plains how these mammals frolicking in the adjacent pool stimulate oxytocin, a natural hormone reducing stress. Linked by underwater windows, we attune minds and bodies, stretching into downward-facing dogs, arching our backs as cats and rising as mountains. While assisting individuals with pose and balance difficulties, she tells everyone, “Remember, success does not depend on touching your toes. Gentle stretches best increase flexibility in your muscles and joints.” Though tours of nearby Red Rock, Fire and Grand Canyons are available, we choose a raft ride below Hoover Dam. Once aboard, our captain explains, “This Dam was constructed during The Depression using unprecedented engineering. Primarily built for flood control, it also supplies water and produces electricity. Traffic crawled across Black Canyon atop the dam until that beautiful Colorado River Bridge was completed in 2010.” The water proves cold and clear. “Above us, Lake Mead cools and filters out sediment, creating perfect conditions for the rainbow trout and striped bass that our fishermen and cormorants love!” He grins, “It’s called Black Canyon because manganese-oxidizing microbes, known as desert varnish, have blackened most of the steep walls. But as you can see, the cormorants are whitewashing it!” During our three-hour flight home, we rave over the surprising variety of fun-filled activities and entertainments SL available in Las Vegas. For IF YOU GO information, visit www.seniorlivingmag.com/ articles/funcity

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MARCH 2013

Looking After Mom Family Caregiving

BY JOHN THOMSON

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interviewed – nannies and former nurse’s aides – were trained to be compassionate as well as dutiful. I was hoping chore time would turn into social time. “Living alone in isolation is not meant for anyone,” says Janie Apostolakos of Luxcare Lifestyle Inc. in Victoria. The company offers a range of home care services including getting at-home seniors

The author’s mom.

Photo: John Thomson

ike other adult children of my generation, I was faced with a dilemma. My elderly mother was infirm and her dementia was getting worse. She lived in Calgary; I lived in Vancouver. Should I place her in care or keep her at home? I checked out various facilities and I liked what I saw, but Mom was a shy person unaccustomed to new situations and new people, so I decided to keep her in the family home surrounded by the things that gave her comfort. Over the span of seven years, I employed several caregivers as I ramped up her level of care from part-time to fulltime. Home care, as I discovered, was an evolutionary process comprised of steps or tiers, and although my story takes place in Alberta, the lessons I learned can be applied to BC as well. Step One was to prepare the family home for Mom’s limited mobility. “People want to stay near their friends and in a familiar community for as long as they are able,” says Gardiner MacDermot of Adapt Alterations in Victoria, “and a lot can be done to a home or an apartment to allow the occupant a few more years of independence.” MacDermot will come into the home and assess potential hazards – an audit he calls it – and then build and install fixtures such as grab bars, railings and ramps to make the home safe. In Calgary, I employed a handyman to install grab bars and clear away the clutter. Having refigured the house, I instigated Step Two, bringing in a part-time caregiver to dust, vacuum and do the laundry. I could have employed a commercial cleaning service, but I opted for a home care company because I wanted the personal touch. I feared Mom was retreating into herself and I liked the fact the home care workers I

out of the house by way of escorted day trips to Butchart Gardens, the ballet, opera or the casino. “We design the day for the senior,” continues Apostolakos, “whatever they want to do and wherever they want to go.” Rebecca Auld of Ace Personnel Services in Vancouver agrees. Isolation and loneliness are key issues. “Matchmaking is the key to in-place care giving,” she says. The process is straightforward. Auld matches the caregiver to the client’s age, temperament and personality and sends her into the home for a three-day trial period. If that doesn’t work out, a different worker is dispatched. In my mother’s case, in Calgary, third time was lucky. The caregiver popped in twice a week for a minimum of two hours per visit. Those visits became more frequent as I extended her hours to include grocery shopping, meal preparation and WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM

assisting at bath time. But as Mom’s dementia worsened I eased into Step Three, around the clock live-in care. I found there are two ways to secure fulltime care. One option is to hire the caregiver yourself and look after salary, taxes and unemployment insurance. The other way is to hire a full-service company that supplies the caregiver and looks after all the paperwork. The first route is cheaper, but I opted for the full-service option. The company supplied two RNs (to spell each other off) and I prepared the spare bedroom. The company looked after everything else. I paid approximately $10,000 a month for around-the-clock live-in care, an industry average from a full-service company. Alberta Health Services contributed $3,000 a month in subsidies. Case workers made regular visits to my mother’s house in order to assess her mobility, mental competence and financial need. A dollar figure was affixed to her situation and the home care company I engaged received partial funding. That’s how it worked in Alberta, and that’s how it works in BC too. In BC, the Ministry of Health’s home care guidelines are administered by five regional health authorities. The guidelines dictate how many hours of subsidized service the client can receive – it’s a complicated formula – and the health authority assigns a dollar figure. The difference between what the company charges and the subsidy is borne by the engager, usually a spouse or child. In my case, I paid for my mother’s live-in care by taking out a CHIP loan, in effect a reverse mortgage. I only regret that I didn’t talk to her earlier about her future care and how to pay for it. “We encourage people to have that discussion early on,” says Stasia Hartley of Bayshore Health, Canada’s largest provider of home and community health services. “Either get the family home ready with grab

bars etc. or decide you’re going to sell the home and downsize into an apartment, a one-storey townhome or assisted living.” There are many options, says Hartley. The key is to be prepared. As the years progressed, my visits to Calgary became more frequent. Mom would retreat to her bedroom and return with an armload of family albums, which she would devour while reminiscing about the past. It was a familiar routine that brought her immense joy. Then one day she quietly slipped away while watching television. Experts say that in-home care is a more humane way of caring for the elderly. Some argue that in-home seniors live longer. Did keeping Mom at home prolong her life? I honestly don’t know, but I’m sure about one thing: she was happy being in her own house surrounded by the memories and artifacts that helped shape her life. Given her personality, home care was the right choice for her, which, regardless SL of the cost, I would do again.

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When Seniors Need Help

Photo: Sandy McElroy Photography

BY SUSAN EVANS

aren and Ted are worried about their mother Mary Wells. In their 50s, they both have busy lives in different cities and are a plane ride away. Mrs. Wells, now in her late seventies is still living in her own home but has been experiencing some cognitive impairment. Her children are worried she isn’t eating properly or taking care of herself and are concerned she is showing signs of dementia. They wonder what to do next to make sure their mother stays healthy and safe. George and Betty have been married for 60 years and are still living in the family home. Now in his eighties, George has been diagnosed with dementia and is experiencing some health issues. Betty, still in good health in her late seventies, wants to keep George with her as long 16 14

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as possible but is finding his day-today care exhausting. She needs help but doesn’t know where to turn. These are just two examples of seniors in our community. Many older people live alone, or live as a caregiver to an ailing spouse. Across BC’s Health Authorities, the goal of Home and Community Care is to help seniors to remain independent and in their own home for as long as possible. Evidence shows that home is the best place for seniors to live safely and comfortably and enjoy the best quality of life as they stay active, mobile, independent and connected to family and friends. It also recognizes that some seniors may require extra help in order to be comfortable and safe in their homes. If someone you love is in this situaWWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM

tion, it’s hard to know where to start - the first step may be a visit to their family physician to determine if there are medical issues and to start the conversation about additional support. Their family doctor can refer to their local Home & Community Care Services, where, if appropriate, a file will be opened, an assessment will take place and a care plan may be developed. If there isn’t a family physician, seniors (and their family) can also contact Home & Community Care Services directly by calling the General Inquiries Line for their area (see website addresses for your local Health Authority on page 15). This call will start the process; if needed, a standardized assessment based on clinical needs will help determine their requirements and what their health authority is able to provide.

For example, in the Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA) region, there are a number of ways VIHA can support seniors at home. Depending on their needs and their caregiver’s ability, they may receive regular visits by a community health worker to provide personal care such as bathing, toileting, grooming or dressing along with help managing medications. If there are medical requirements, a care recipient could also receive home visits from a community nurse. There may also be physiotherapy or occupational therapy for short-term rehabilitation services, home-safety assessments and education. For seniors living alone, there are systems that can be put in place, such as automated medication dispensers to manage prescriptions; case managers can also help to connect clients with other services, like Lifeline, which provides a medic alert service. Case managers will also work with caregiver spouses to find respite programs as well as services like adult day care programs that can provide a needed break. Generally, there are no charges for Health Authority ordered professional services like nursing, occupational therapy or case management. Whether there is a charge for home support services is dependent on the net income of the person needing care. For information on how net income is calculated and costs and/or subsidies determined, contact your local health authority’s Home and Community Care office. Seniors and their families are encouraged to explore the many resources available in the community and to connect with neighbours and friends for added support. There are many not-for-profit organizations as well as fee-for-service companies designed to help seniors, providing everything from meals to driving, housework, gardening and snow removal services. Home and Community Care case managers can help identify some of these resources; they can also be found in senior’s publications like Senior Living and online. With the right support, staying healthy and at home is where we all want to be. SL Susan Evans is a writer in the Communications Department at the Vancouver Island Health Authority.

BC Health Authorities

Home and Community Care H

ome and Community Care (H & CC) through your local health authority provides a range of in-home and community-based services to support clients to improve their health and quality of life, and remain independent and in their own home for as long as possible. H & CC also offers clients other options based on their needs, such as residential care and assisted living. Search for Home and Community Care information on your health authority’s website:

Fraser Health Authority Fraser North, Fraser South and Fraser East www.fraserhealth.ca

Interior Health Authority Thompson/Caribou, Okanagan, Kootenay/Boundary, and East Kootenay www.interiorhealth.ca

Northern Health Authority Northwest, Northeast and Northern Interior www.northernhealth.ca Vancouver Coastal Health Authority North Shore/Coast Garibaldi, Vancouver and Richmond www.vch.ca Vancouver Island Health Authority Vancouver Island, the islands of the Georgia Strait, and in the mainland communities north of Powell River and south of Rivers Inlet www.viha.ca

Telephone numbers for each community can be found on their websites.

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Family Caregiver Support Groups: What they are and how to choose one… or two!

BY SARAH GALUSKA

aregiving can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it is also common for caregivers to experience increased stress, health problems and financial consequences. Without support, caregivers can “burn out” and become unable to continue providing care. For the sake of your own health – and that of the person you are caring for – it may be helpful to find out how to take care of yourself and ensure you get the support you need. “I had a lot of guilt when I first came to the group. Attending the group has helped me to feel less guilty. Now I pay attention to my own needs, which helps me take better care of my husband.” –VCH Caregiver Support Group Member What is a Caregiver Support Group? A caregiver support group is a group of caregivers who get together to share information and offer each other emotional support and practical information based on experience. They all share a common experience of caring for an adult family member or friend who lives either at home or in a care facility. Many caregiver support groups are facilitated by staff or volunteers who have experience with family caregiving. The facilitator ensures that the support group runs smoothly, and that all participants who want to share have an opportunity to do so.

What happens in a support group? A support group gives people the opportunity to: • Connect with other caregivers • Explore the challenges • Learn new skills • Share ideas with others in a similar situation • Learn about available resources

Why join a support group?

The motivation behind joining a caregiver support group is different for everyone, but often times it is related to the caregiver’s need for recognition, counselling, support, information, problem sharing, and/or peer socializing. It is easy for the caregiver’s own needs to get lost in the shuffle of juggling multiple caregiving responsibilities, especially if the caregiving responsibilities are on-going, frequent and time demanding. Having a place where caregivers can speak openly about their own needs, emotions and experi18 16

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ences while receiving the positive input of their peers can be very validating.

Support Group guidelines include: Confidentiality – whatever is said about a situation, a family member or friend, a facility or health service, or personal details is NOT to be repeated outside of the meeting. Everyone has a chance to speak – sometimes going around the room giving each person an opportunity (if they want) to share with the others how they have been doing and feeling since the last time the group met is an effective way to ensure each person some time. There will be times when a support group member needs more time to “share” than usual. Silences are Okay. Tears are Okay. Active listening – it is important for everyone to listen when someone in the group is speaking: that is where the support comes from – knowing that people care enough to listen. Avoid giving unsolicited advice – the last thing a caregiver needs is someone telling them what they “should” do. Remember that caregivers come to a support group for an empathetic ear. If they want advice, they’ll ask for it.

Choosing a group that is right for you

It is important to find a support group that is a good match for you. Consider the following when searching for a support group: • Meeting times and location – The easier it is for you to get to the meetings, the more likely you may be to go. • Type of group – Some support groups are general caregiver groups, while others are illness specific and/or relationship specific (i.e. spouses only; long-distance caregivers, etc.). Illness-specific groups can play an important role in educating caregivers about an illness and specific techniques for coping with challenges associated with caring for someone with that illness. Relationship-specific groups allow for more focused group sharing and discussion of issues most relevant to a particular group of caregivers. • Group members’ experience caregiving – Knowing if the group is attended by mostly new caregivers, seasoned caregivers, or both can give you a better idea of how you fit into the group, as well as some of the different perspectives you

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may be exposed to. • Group Atmosphere – The quality of the peer support is crucial. At your first meeting, observe how the facilitator and group members react to new members joining, as well as how attentive group members are towards one another. Hopefully you will feel welcomed knowing you are not alone. • Try More Than One – Feel free to test one or two groups out to compare and see which group you like best. Some caregivers regularly go to more than one meeting, especially if the groups only meet once a month. What is most important is that you feel supported and are getting what you want out of the group. If something isn’t working for you, discuss this with the group facilitator. The facilitator can then work towards adapting the current group to better meet your needs or help you connect with another group that may be a better match for you. See page 22 for current support groups throughout BC. SL Why not give one a try to see if it works for you?

The Value of Support Groups “My mom was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease in 2007. When I first learned about my mom’s condition and that there was no cure for Alzheimer’s, I was devastated. I could not stop crying for weeks. I didn’t know what to do and feared the worst every day. For several years I asked myself, “Why is this happening to me?” Instead of fearing my mother’s dementia and its impact on our lives, I finally decided to accept it and find help. When I attended my first caregiver support group session, there were about 10 members in the group. I received so much support and information from the group, especially around learning about the different home and community services that could help me in caring for my mom. I’ve attended additional support group meetings and workshops offered by the Vancouver Coastal Health Caregiver Support Program which have helped me in my journey. Caregiving requires patience and is a lot of work, but to my surprise, caregiving has helped me become a stronger person and truly value life. My caregiving journey has made me very close to my mom and has helped bring my family closer together than ever before. Most importantly, as a caregiver, I’ve learn how important it is to make time for myself. I’ve learned that in order to take care of others, I need to take care of myself first.”

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–M. Yuen, BC Family Caregiver

Sarah Galuska (MSW, RSW) is the Coordinator of the Caregiver Support Program, Vancouver Coastal Health, Tel: 604-709-643, www.vch.ca/caregivers WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM

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One is the Loneliest Number: Technology with Heart

BY CINDY HUGHES

We are better together The truth is that humans are a highly interdependent species. We heal faster and get sick less often when we have a supportive social network. We’re really only as strong as our inner circle of friends and family. A friendly tool to bring people together Vancouver-based Tyze (www.tyze.com) is a life-changing resource for people who are isolated or who are coordinating care for a loved one. A private online space, Tyze brings together small, intentional groups. Every Tyze network is set up around one person who needs support. Once invited to a network, members log in to do practical things like check in, schedule appointments, plan events on a shared calendar, and upload and share documents. They can also do fun things like share stories, photos and ideas. The simple act of gathering this small group and connecting for one purpose is powerful for everyone involved. It’s also a time saver and reduces the need to make multiple phone calls – one message and everyone is updated. Some people even invite formal care providers like doctors and support workers on to their network, so everyone is on the same page. How are Tyze and Facebook Different? There are many similarities between Tyze and a social media site like Facebook, but there are also some critical differences: Tyze is ad-free, private and secure. Your data is safe and belongs only to you. It’s not about maximizing the number of friends; it’s about maintaining quality relationships and building a helpful community. How Charles Used Tyze Charles was 87 when his health took a turn. A retired banker, he lived alone in a quiet town. He had been strong and fit into his mid-eighties, travelling the world to visit his three children in their far-flung homes. But what to do when his health started to fail? Suddenly his children keenly felt the miles that lay between them. It took less than a week for Tyze to prove its usefulness: linking Charles to his son John, his daughters, Charles’ osteo20 18

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Photo: Sandy McElroy Photography

he research is in – isolation has devastating consequences. Feeling alone is harder on us than physical inactivity and just as damaging as smoking. We need each other. But too often we forget about the huge role that freely given love, care and support play in our healing and wellbeing. Are we trying to be too independent? Are we shy about offering to help others, even though we’d really love to?

path, and a neighbour. The osteopath reported that although Charles was eating well, he had recently spent a whole day in bed. For John and his sisters, these observations provided valuable insight into their father’s health. “These messages identified a bit of loneliness and depression – something we would never have detected because Dad would have shielded us from it. He didn’t want us to worry.” “It’s almost as good as being there with Dad when we get your posts,” wrote one of Charles’ daughters. “Sitting on the other side of the world, it’s a powerful thing to get a note from someone who has seen your dad that morning.” The Tyze network has become the equivalent of a global bulletin board, where care schedules and contact numbers can be accessed along with an increasingly full calendar. “With each of us coming in at different times from different countries,” says John, “the calendar helped us keep track of everything. We are all in the loop now, and we’re working as a team. It’s a game changer.” SL

Why use Tyze to build community or manage someone’s care? • An easy way to share the care and lighten the load • Completely safe and private • Inform everyone with one simple message • Store critical information, important contact numbers and more in one place • Access on-the-go from your smartphone • Share stories and photos and celebrate milestones Cindy Hughes is the Marketing Manager for Tyze, www.tyze.com

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Family Caregiver Support Organizations in BC Family Caregiversâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Network Society 526 Michigan Street Victoria, BC V8V 1S2 Tel: 250-384-0408 Toll-free: 1-877-520-3267 Email: caregiversupport@fcns.ca www.familycaregiversnetwork.org Cowichan Family Caregivers Support Society PO Box 13, Shawnigan Lake, BC V0R 2W0 Tel: 250-743-7621 or email: info@familycaregiverssupport.org www.familycaregiverssupport.org Caregiver Support Program, Vancouver Coastal Health 2450 Ontario Street Vancouver, BC V5T 4T7 Tel: 604-709-6437 Email: caregiversupport@vch.ca www.vch.ca/caregivers

250-384-0408 caregiversupport@fcns.ca www.familycaregiversnetwork.org

Caregiver Support Program, Seniors Come Share Society 15008 26th Ave. Surrey, BC V4P 3H5 Tel: 604-531-9400 ext. 27 Email: info@comeshare.ca www.comeshare.ca Tri-Cities Caregiver Support Program Tel: 778-789-1496 or email: SeniorCaregiverProgram@gmail.com (Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam and Port Moody)

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Caregiver Support Program, North Shore Community Resources 935 Marine Drive, Suite 201 North Vancouver, BC V7P 1S3 Tel: 604-982-3320 Email: karyn.davies@nscr.bc.ca www.nscr.bc.ca/information/caregivers.html Caregiver Network for East Kootenay Seniorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Society Tel: 1-877-489-0803 (within 250 area code) or 250-489-0802 elsewhere Email: lizd@shaw.ca For a complete list of provincial resources, visit the FCNS website: www.fcns-caregiving.org/resources/ provincial-resources Online Support: VON Canada Caregiver Connect www.caregiver-connect.ca

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Calendar of Upcoming Events for Family Caregivers in BC: ��

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FREE Tele-Workshops for Family Caregivers (by telephone only): What Does True Helping Really Mean? March 14, 7–8 PM Underlying caregiving is the belief that helping another really matters. So, how do you know if what you are doing is helping or not? In this valuable tele-workshop, you will learn that helping – true helping – can look quite different from what you imagine. Very often, true helping is more about how well you are connecting with a person than what you doing for them. Come learn how listening to them and not to yourself can really aid the helping process. Facilitated by: Allison Reeves, Registered Clinical Counsellor. Hosted by: Family Caregivers’ Network Society, www. familycaregiversnetwork.org Registration: Call the Care-ring Voice Network at 1-866396-2433 or register online at www.careringvoice.com Making Caregiving Decisions: Which Hat Am I Wearing Today? March 26, 6:30–8 PM As a family caregiver, you have dual relationships with the person you are caring for – whether as their spouse, child, sibling, parent or friend. It is this original relationship that is unique to the two of you, as no one else can be in that particular role. However, sometimes these two roles can collide or become muddled. When is it beneficial to put on your caregiver hat and when isn’t it? The goal of this tele-workshop is to help you clarify these two roles, understand how they can impact each other and points to consider when making challenging decisions. Facilitated by: Allison Reeves, Registered Clinical Counsellor. Hosted by: Family Caregivers’ Network Society, www. familycaregiversnetwork.org Registration: Call the Care-ring Voice Network at 1-866396-2433 or register online at www.careringvoice.com FREE Webinars for Family Caregivers (Webinars are offered online. If you don’t have a computer, you can listen over the telephone.): Navigating the Healthcare System March 5, 6:30–8 PM Are you confused as to who to call if your elderly relative is becoming frailer and needs assistance to help him manage at home? Is your mother becoming more isolated because she is no longer able to get out to her social clubs independently? What is an Adult Day Program and would it help her? Are you

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going away for a two-week vacation and want to know if there is a place where your spouse can stay and be looked after while you are away? My husband ended up in the hospital, and now it looks like he’s going to have to go into a care facility directly from there. Who do I talk to in the hospital to arrange this? If any of these questions sound familiar, this session for family caregivers will provide you with answers to these questions and many more. In an informal setting, where questions and discussion are welcome, learn valuable information to help you understand and navigate the healthcare system. Facilitated by: Maureen Grant, Community Social Worker, Home and Community Care, VIHA Hosted by: Family Caregivers’ Network Society, www. familycaregiversnetwork.org Registration: Call the Care-ring Voice Network at 1-866396-2433 or register online at www.careringvoice.com Lower Mainland Workshops for Family Caregivers Five-Week Family Caregiver Workshop Learn about caregiving such as, taking care of you, of them, planning, etc., 5 Wednesdays, 1–3 PM starting May 1–May 29, Dogwood Pavilion, Central Coquitlam. To learn more, contact Karen Tyrell, Tri-Cities Family Caregiver Support at 778-7891496 or email: SeniorCaregiverProgram@gmail.com Planning and Legal Aspects of Senior Care March 11, 7–9 PM Understanding the common legal issues that arise in relation to senior care, and learning how to plan effectively to avoid crisis situations can make a world of difference. Join us to learn about wills, estate planning, power of attorney and representation agreements. Presenter: Jack Micner, Partner, Spry Hawkins Micner Hosted by: VCH Caregiver Support Program Raven Song Community Health Centre, 2450 Ontario Street, Vancouver For more info and to register for free, call: 604-709-6437 or e-mail: caregiversupport@vch.ca or caregivers.vch.ca The Importance of Legal Papers April 3, 1:30 PM Presenter: Don Drysdale, lawyer Location: Dogwood Pavilion, Central Coquitlam Community Supports for Those With Dementia April 25, 7PM Presenter: Dorothy from the Alzheimer’s Society Location: Maillardville Community Centre, South Coquitlam For more information, please contact: Karen Tyrell, Tri-Cities Family Caregiver Support by calling 778-789-1496 or by email SL SeniorCaregiverProgram@gmail.com

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BC Support Groups for Family Caregivers Family Caregivers’ Network Society (South Vancouver Island) Victoria Support Group 1st Monday, 7:00 - 9:00 PM (April 8 – in lieu of stat holiday on April 1) FCNS office, 526 Michigan Street, Victoria Sidney Support Group 3rd Tuesday, 10:00 AM – Noon Lounge, Shoal Centre, 10030 Resthaven Drive, Sidney Salt Spring Island Support Group Every Wednesday, 11:00 AM – Noon Seniors for Seniors Centre, Ganges (The SSI group is offered in partnership with the Alzheimer Resource Centre, however this group is open to all caregivers.) For more information, call FCNS at 250-3840408 or visit www.familycaregiversnetwork. org Cowichan Family Caregivers Support Society (Mid-Vancouver Island) Duncan 1st & 3rd Tuesdays 4th Tuesday 2nd & 4th Mondays Contact Janis at 250-743-1961 Ladysmith 2nd Tuesday Contact Maggie at 250-715-1998 Chemainus Last Wednesday Contact Maggie at 250-715-1998 or Ranjana at 250-743-7621 Lake Cowichan As needed Contact Janis at 250-743-1961

Renfrew Park Community Centre, 2929 East 22nd Ave, Vancouver Central Vancouver Support Group 2nd Wednesday, 6:30 – 8:00 PM Raven Song Community Health Centre, Room 139, 2450 Ontario Street, Vancouver West Side Spousal Support Group 3rd Tuesday, 1:00 – 3:00 PM Pacific Spirit Community Health Centre, Room 342, 2110 West 43rd Ave., Vancouver For more information: call 604-709-6437, email caregiversupport@vch.ca, or visit www. vch.ca/caregivers Seniors Come Share Society (Surrey) White Rock/South Surrey Tuesdays, 9:30 AM Seniors Come Share Society, 15008 26th Ave, Surrey Surrey 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 9:30 AM Newton Seniors Centre, 13775 70 Ave, Surrey Parkinson Caregiver Support Group – White Rock/South Surrey 1st Wednesday, 1:00 -3:00 PM Seniors Come Share Society, 15008 26th Ave Surrey Caregiver Café Seniors Come Share Society, 15008 26th Ave Surrey. Dates and times will vary throughout the year for the caregiver café. Please call 604-531-9400 ex. 27 for more information or check out our newsletter online, www.comeshare.ca

Youth Caregivers 1st & 3rd Wednesdays Contact Dan at 250-746-0989

Caregiver Support Program, North Shore Community Resources 1st Thursday, 7:00 - 9:00 PM and 2nd Wednesday, 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM #201, 935 Marine Drive, North Vancouver

Comox Valley Senior Peer Counselling Society – Caregiver Support Groups 2 Women’s Groups and 1 Men’s Group meet once a month. Call to register or for more information 250-890-0099.

Tri-Cities Family Caregiver Support Meetings Central Coquitlam 2nd & 4th Fridays, 10:00 - 11:30 AM Dogwood Pavilion

VCH Caregiver Support Program (Vancouver) East Side Support Group 1st Wednesday, 1:00 – 3:00 PM

North Coquitlam 4th Monday, 2:00 - 3:30 PM Glen Pine Pavilion

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South Coquitlam 4th Monday, 10:00 - 11:30 AM Maillardville Community Centre Port Coquitlam 1st Monday, 1:00 – 2:30 PM Wilson Community Centre Port Moody 1st Monday, 7:00 – 9:00 PM Eagle Ridge Bible Fellowship To learn more, contact Karen Tyrell at 778789-1496 or SeniorCaregiverProgram@gma il.com Burnaby Caregiver Support Group Burnaby Hospital, 3933 Kincaid St, Burnaby Call Lorna Gross at 604-434-2100 Langley Senior Resources Society Every Thursday, 1:15 - 2:30 PM Langley Seniors Resources Society, 20605 51B Ave. Langley. Call Sylvia for more information at 778-328-2302 ex. 2 Caregiver Network for East Kootenay Seniors’ Society Cranbrook 2nd & 4th Mondays, 1:00 – 3:00 PM Joseph Creek Care Village Board Room Kimberley 1st Thursday, 1:00 – 2:45 PM “The Pines” Day Program Room Creston 1st & 3rd Fridays, 1:00 – 3:00 PM Community Room – Public Library Golden 2nd Wednesday, 6:30 – 8:30 PM Hospital conference room Invermere 3rd Tuesday, 3:00 – 5:00 PM Columbia Garden Village Fernie 1st Tuesday, 1:00 – 3:00 PM Board room – Public library For more information on all East Kootenaycommunities, contact Liz Duchscherer, 1-877489-0803 (within 250 area code) or 250-4890802 elsewhere, email: lizd@shaw.ca SL

Caring for the Caregivers BY JOHN THOMSON

ure, aging-in-place is a great idea, but sometimes people just can’t afford the extra help. Others feel compelled to look after their loved ones themselves. In fact, a 2010 government report says 80 to 90 per cent of home care in Canada is provided by friends, family or neighbours. That puts a lot of strain on unpaid helpers leading to stress, fatigue and anxiety. Fortunately, there are many roads leading to caregiver mental and physical health. One. Get informed. Agencies such as the Alzheimer’s Society, the Stroke Recovery Association and the Canadian Cancer Society provide fact sheets, workshops and guidance in explaining the disease and advising the caregiver on how to deal with it. “To understand the disease, you have to understand the person is changing,” says Judy Bourne, Support and Education Co-ordinator at Vancouver’s Alzheimer Resource Centre. Although Judy is talking about Alzheimer’s, her advice applies to any caregiver looking after a loved one with impairment. “Without understanding their behaviour the caregiver will feel angry and frustrated.” In addition to disease-specific help, the City of Vancouver, Vancouver Coastal Health and United Way all support a host of Vancouver and area services, often in community centres and other gathering places, where caregivers can get information on practical matters like medications, legal and estate planning and filing for caregiver and other tax credits. In Victoria and area, the not-for-profit Family Caregivers Network Society offers similar workshops and educational programs. For those at home, the Society runs a continuing series of podcasts and webinars on topics such as Life with Aging Parents. These interactive webinars invite caregivers to text their questions, which are answered online and in real time. Two. Get help to lighten the load. There are many agencies, both not-for-profit and fee-for-service, that take care of looking after yard work, grocery shopping and household chores. Volunteers are a crucial part of this scenario. Vancouver’s West End Seniors Network provides volunteers to take the aging-in-place senior for a walk, read to them or fill their grocery list. This gives the caregiver some free time to get out, see friends or even a movie – a necessary component in maintaining the caregiver’s mental health. The service is free to west end caregivers and clients. Other non-profits offer similar nonmedical programs throughout the city.

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For those who require more substantial care, organizations like the Jewish Family Services Agency, available to people of all faiths in downtown Vancouver, supplies trained caregivers to assist in the more personal duties such as grooming, bathing and administering meds. The Agency charges a sliding scale, anywhere from nine to $21 an hour, depending upon annual income. And for those who can afford full-blown paid care, St. Elizabeth Home Care, a private Vancouver company, offers a special caregiver’s rate for those who have hired their services. The company will supply from four to 32 hours a week of free care to eligible clients who are being looked after at home by a family relative. In Victoria, volunteers are also a big part of the equation. Agencies such as the James Bay Community Project and Beacon Community Volunteer Services provide rides to appointments, visiting and reading. With 200 volunteers on its roster, Oak Bay Volunteer Services even helps with gardening. These services are free to qualified residents and can be secured by getting in touch with them directly or through their umbrella organization Volunteer Victoria. For those with a little money to spend, Victoria’s Piercy Respite Hotel, gives aging-in-place seniors a little getaway in the middle of town and frees up some alone time for their helpers too. Administered by the Vancouver Island Health Authority, the facility is a 12-room residence where loved ones can enjoy meals, therapy, activities and overnight accommodation in a hotel-like environment. Guests can stay up to 35 days per calendar year, depending upon need and availability, for an out-of-pocket expense of $31.50 a day. “Our mandate is to provide care for our clients, which in turn provides respite for our client’s caregivers,” says the Hotel’s Lynn McKrank, adding that being a client of VIHA Home and Community Care is the only prerequisite. Three. Seek out a sympathetic ear. Sometimes caregivers just want a chance to express themselves. “I’m here because I thought I’d be allowed to cry,” says Barbara, a first-time visitor to Pacific Spirit Community Health Centre, one of three free monthly support groups in Vancouver administered by Vancouver Coastal Health. “My girlfriends have hit the hills,” she says. The others nod in agreement. Barbara feels abandoned by her friends and family, a familiar refrain among family caregivers. The conversation is frank, intimate and supportive. “I have to do all the banking and the driving and get the groceries as well as look after my husband,” says an older woman suffering from fatigue. “I would love someone to wash my car on Saturday,” she sighs. “Me too,” laughs Barbara. “My alone time is meditation,” says yet another spouse. “I do something that doesn’t require anything of me. If the phone rings I won’t answer it unless it’s [my husband].” United Way runs another five support groups in the Vancouver area. Created in the belief there’s strength in sharing,

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these 10, free consecutive meetings combine empathy with hard information as participants engage in spirited Q and A sessions. “At the end of the course, they leave with friends. They are not alone,” says Beverly Pittman, Seniors Planner at United Way. In Victoria, the Family Caregivers Network Society runs similar monthly evening and daytime support groups. Their website also hosts a series of illuminating videos – caregivers talking to other caregivers about the issues that concern them the most. “Many caregivers are hard on themselves,” says Irene Laing in one video. “There was a time in my life when I was Superwoman trying to do everything and it’s only through the passage of time that you realize yeah, you did a really good job but you’re not Superwoman. Learn to forgive yourself, your frailties,” she advises. “It took me a long time to like myself.” The message is clear. Take care of yourself. There are services in place that provide information, help with logistics and give caregivers a chance to express themselves. As one facilitator put it, if the caregiver burns out, there are two sick people. And an incapacitated caregiver isn’t SL much help to anyone.

THE GLENSHIEL

For a list of family caregiver events and support groups, please see pages 20–22.

606 Douglas Street, Victoria, BC Call 250-383-4164 to arrange a tour

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Enhancing Lives Every Day

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8th Annual

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March 2013 March is Embrace Aging Month! The Greater Victoria Eldercare Foundation invites you to discover resources, activities and educational opportunities available to help embrace the journey of aging.

In Celebration of Embrace Aging Month: Have Fun; Be Entertained; Discover Resources Senior Living Magazine presents: Senior Expo - March 12th - Pearkes Recreation Centre, Victoria Be Well; Be Secure; Be Connected; Be Enriched Free Workshops, Events and Resources for seniors and their families Various Times & Locations during March

For details, contact the Eldercare Foundation. supported by:

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1454 Hillside Ave.,Victoria, BC V8T 2B7 250-370-5664 ��www.gvef.org WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM

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Look Closer…Get Connected

Get connected to inspiring people, ideas, activities and valuable resources during the month of March. There is so much to see and do! For more information, go to www.gvef.org and follow the Embrace Aging links or call the Greater Victoria Eldercare Foundation at 250-370-5664.

Do you sometimes feel that you are invisible to people who are busy working, socializing and raising their families? Do you wonder why all the knowledge and skills you have acquired seem to be unimportant in this world of fast changing technology? If you answered“yes” to either or both of these questions, know that you are not alone. Many seniors experience a sense of disconnection, especially after the death of a spouse or good friend or as a result of increasing physical limitations. It is vitally important to our health to stay involved as much as possible; What does it take to stay healthy and involved at this stage of life? Age does bring limitations, but there is much we can do to …

Be Well, Be Secure, Be Connected, and Be Enriched.

During the month of March, the GreaterVictoria Eldercare Foundation is hosting its 8th annual Embrace Aging Month to help seniors and their families get connected. We invite you to attend some of the free workshops in your community, join us at the Senior Expo on March 12th in Victoria, and connect to inspiring people, activities and resources. If you can still participate in marathons, that’s terriﬁc! If not (or it just doesn’t appeal) there are lots of gentle ways to exercise.Tai Chi, yoga or pole walking might be for you. Keep your brain active by attending the UVic Masterminds lecture series, learning to use a computer with the help of your local library or by teaching someone the skills you have accumulated over your lifetime. Our community needs all of us, young and old, if we are to reach our potential.

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Here are just a few of the free sessions planned in celebration of Embrace Aging Month. Victoria – Yakimovich Wellness Centre March 6 Mature Drivers March 9 UVic Idea Fest March 14 Medication Safety

March 27 Healthy Eating Parksville – Parksville Community Centre

April 6 Oceanside Health & Wellness Fair

Courtenay – Alzheimer Society

March 6 Family Caregivers For a full listing of work– shops, events, community offerings and resource links, go to www.gvef.org and click on Embrace Aging, or call the Foundation office at 250-370-5664. Brochures are also available at Greater Victoria recreation facilities, public libraries and seniors’ centres.

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Live Well. Age Well.

An Irish Country Author BY VERNICE SHOSTAL

Carefree Activities, Outings & Great Meals Call for a Lunch & Tour Today!

ALEXANDER MACKIE Retirement Community

ormer gynaecologist, distinguished medical researcher, boat racer, model ship builder and current author Patrick Taylor recently announced the publication of An Irish Country Wedding, the seventh novel in his New York Times bestselling light-hearted “Irish Country” series. In typical Irish humour, Patrick’s website invites the reader to “come in and make yourself at home.” He regrets that he can’t “pour you a pint.” Growing up in Bangor, Northern Ireland, Patrick attended Campbell College Boys’ school in Belfast and received his medical education in Ulster. Bestselling author Patrick Taylor.

Call 250-478-4888 753 Station Avenue, Victoria www.hayworth.ca

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Having contracted polio when he was nine, Patrick spent three months in hospital. “I was terribly impressed with what the doctors and nurses did,” he says, “and decided when I was nine I was going to be a doctor.” After his training in Ulster, Patrick practised medicine in a rural village before he returned to take further studies in obstetrics and gynaecology. � � Having lived in Belfast through the first two years of the Irish troubles, Patrick and his family immigrated to Canada where Pat�� rick pursued a career in medical research and teaching in the field of human fertility. His contributions have been honoured with three �� lifetime achievement awards including the Lifetime Award of Ex�� cellence of the Canadian Fertility and Andrology Society. Patrick’s first Canadian experience lasted only six weeks. “If I �� could do six weeks as a locum tenens for a GP in Canada, I could make more money than I made in a year in Ireland,” says Patrick, �� “and, at 28, a typical young doctor, I was in debt.” �� When he returned to Canada in 1971, he took a specialist post

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in Welland, but soon moved to Calgary and became an IVF (in Vitro Fertilization) pioneer in Canada, establishing the IVF program at Foothills Hospital, where he stayed until 1987 when he was offered a position in the UK. He moved to Bourn Hall Clinic near Cambridge, working as Deputy Medical Director in 1987 and Medical Director in 1988. Back in Canada, Winnipeg “happened to be looking for somebody of my skill set,” says Patrick. He returned to Canada and took the position of Professor (University of Manitoba) and Division Head of reproductive endocrinology and infertility. Two years later, Patrick moved to Vancouver. He retired there as Head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Saint Paul’s Hospital and Professor Emeritus, Faculty of Medicine at UBC in 2001. While Patrick was immersed in medicine, he never stopped writing. “I started writing when I was old enough to hold a pen in my fist,” he says. At age 16, he received his first writing recognition winning the “Campbellion Prize for Literature.” While he was a university professor in his adult years, Patrick wrote research papers and chapters in books, “So for quite a chunk of my adult life I was writing technical stuff,” he says. His scientific works include 170 papers and six textbooks. For 10 years (1991–2001), he was editor-inchief of the Canadian Obstetrics and Gynaecology Journal. In order to satisfy his creative and humorous side, Patrick began writing medical humour columns in 1991. In the mid-nineties, encouraged by his long-time friend, Jack Whyte, author of the best-selling historical Dream of Eagles series, Patrick began to write serious fiction. His short story collection Only Wounded: Ulster Stories, published in 1997 tried to capture the lives of ordinary people caught up in extraordinary times. The tales are sombre reading. His novel, Pray for us Sinners, was published in 2000 and its sequel, Now and in the Hour of Our Death, was published in 2005. In stark contrast to his later Irish Country series, Patrick’s first three works were darker because they dealt with the issue of war and the troubles in Northern Ireland. His earlier

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works expressed Patrick’s horror of how the deeply held beliefs of both sides led to futile carnage that took 35 years and 3,268 people dead merely to end up politically about where things had been in Ulster in 1968. Although the original novels are out of print, Pray for Us Sinners, a thriller, has been reissued by a major publisher and will be available in June of 2013. In 2005, Patrick’s more light-hearted The Apprenticeship of Doctor Laverty was short-listed for the BC Book Awards Fiction Prize. In 2007, Tom Doherty and Associates republished the book in hardcover as An Irish Country Doctor. It reached the New York Times bestseller list and achieved Canadian bestseller status after trade paperback released it in 2008. It has currently been translated into 13 other languages. An Irish Country Doctor was followed by An Irish Country Village (March 2008); An Irish Country Christmas (October 2008); An Irish Country Girl (October 2009); An Irish Country Courtship (October 2010); and A Dublin Student Doctor (October 2011), all of which have

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achieved Canadian bestseller status. An Irish Country Wedding debuted on the New York Times bestseller list at No. 14 in November 2012. Patrick’s next novel, Fingal O’Reilly: Irish Doctor, will debut in October 2013. The series deals with Doctor Fingal Flahertie O’Reilly, a country doctor whose misadventures are expressed through his own eyes or from the point of view of his young colleague, Doctor Barry Laverty. Also an expert navigator, Patrick began sailing when he was 14. He has been a member of off-shore racing crews and is a frequent contributor of sailing humour to boating magazines. Patrick’s model ship building skills were ignited when someone gave him a model ship building kit. While working in micro surgery and the fallopian tubes, which involves working through a microscope using small artery clamps and needle nosed forceps, Patrick discovered the perfect tools for the fine work of building a model ship. His Rattlesnake, a three-masted frigate and the schooner Bluenose are on display in the local pub on Bowen Island. A distinguished medical researcher, pioneer in IVF treatment in Canada and the UK, off-shore sailor, model boat-builder, author and father of two grown children, Patrick now lives and SL writes on Salt Spring Island. To share a laugh with Patrick, visit his website at www.patricktaylor.ca. For light-hearted, enjoyable reading, purchase An Irish Country Wedding, or any of the Irish Country series available at most book stores.

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Travel & Adventure

An Island of Peace

BY BOB COOPER

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“It costs about half as much to live here, and rain is so unusual that we come outdoors to see it,” says Gari-Ellen. “It’s a good place to retire or semi-retire because you can live simply and live well.” In fact, the New York Times has rated La Paz among the world’s Top 10 places to retire. “We have writers and others who can choose to live anywhere in the world. Some people just come down because they are ready to make a change in their lives.”

Sea Lion Rock, a popular spot for snorkeling and sea lion encounters in the Sea of Cortez near La Paz.

Photos: Bob Cooper

he first clue I was in a different kind of place came moments after the plane landed. When I stepped inside the tiny La Paz (Mexico) Airport, I noticed there were no clocks. Time stands still here, so even if your flight is late, there is no evidence. I soon discovered time doesn’t fly in the town named Peace (Paz) either. This city of 220,000 feels much smaller and safer – the latter perception supported by low crime statistics. It’s a place where offices and shops close from 2 to 4 p.m. daily, so families can come together for comida, the traditional largest meal of the day. The slow pace is most evident while walking the malecon, a palm-lined, beachside promenade that runs for about a mile near downtown La Paz. This is Mexico without the poverty (the state of Baja Sur boasts Mexico’s highest average income) or the drug cartel-fueled violence (the violent crime rate is lower than in most California cities). It is also Mexico without the Spring-Break-for-Adults vibe or higher prices of nearby Cabo San Lucas. These are things it is not, and I soon learned what it is: an historic town discovered by Hernando Cortes in 1535. A fishing town once known for pearls and still known for sport fishing and seafood, La Paz is the only city on the Sea of Cortez, which Jacques Cousteau called the “world’s aquarium” for its 900 kinds of fish and one-third of the world’s marine mammal species (more on that later). It’s a place not yet overrun by tourists, despite its 340 days of sunshine per year. For all of these reasons, but mostly the climate and lower cost of living, it’s also a place where many Canadian, American and European expatriates now live seasonally or yearround. Some own luxury condos, but most are in moderately-priced homes scattered around the city, as there are none of the “expat ghettoes” you will find in cities like Cancun, Mazatlan and Puerto Vallarta. One expat passionate about La Paz is Gari-Ellen Donohoe, a resident from Brandon, Manitoba, who launched its first English-language newspaper, The Baja Citizen, in 2008. She has lived for 12 years in La Paz with her husband, a doctor, and returns to Manitoba only in the summers to escape the heat. “I love walking the malecon on weekend nights when everyone is out,” she says. Another expat called the malecon “La Paz’s living room.” Families stroll the promenade until late at night, socializing and stopping at the many vendors selling hot dogs, agua frescas (fruit punch), paletas (fruit popsicles) and helium balloons.

One of those people is BC resident Gary Green, 69, who, with his wife Cathy, spends six months of each year in Tsawwassen and the other six months in La Paz. “Cathy studied Spanish for years, which opened up many friendships with Mexican families, who now include us in weddings, quinceaneras and other cultural celebrations,” he says. “Our house is across the street from the malecon, so we’re in the centre of the bustle of city living – great for walks and close to restaurants and shopping. Unlike Cabo, where we previously owned a condo for 10 years, La Paz is not just a tourist destination, but truly a Mexican city.” The morning after my arrival, I boarded a tour boat for the day trip to Espiritu Santo, an uninhabited island accorded national park status in 2008. We passed several of the Sea of Cortez’s 900 other islands en route. The first stop was a photo op at a colony of 150 sea lions, including new moms shepherding their pups.

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Next, it was on to Sea Lion Rock for an even closer encounter. Snorkeling equipment was slipped on and we swam to the tunnel-arched islet, noticing neon-coloured tropical fish beneath us as the barking got louder. Apprehension turned to amusement when one young sea lion darted straight at me from below, veering off only at the last moment, then somersaulting past my snorkeling companions. I stifled a laugh into the snorkel’s mouthpiece. The Fun Baja cruise captain’s promise that we would “swim with the sea lions” was not mere hype. The next stop was secluded and deserted Espiritu Santo Beach, set behind a cove of turquoise water. Comida awaited: freshly caught fish, rice, tortillas and Mexican beers. While the others digested this feast at wooden umbrella tables, I took a kayak out on the cove. I quickly spotted many comically bloated puffer fish below, a sea turtle on the surface, brightred crabs on the rocky shoreline and sea birds high above on the rocky cliffs.

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“Another great trip yesterday. I loved the entire day.”

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The cliffs were eyelashed by cardon cacti — the world’s largest cactus species at up to 21-metres tall, which dominate the landscape on the island and throughout southern Baja. The boat ride back was highlighted by a spin past an island where dozens of statuesque great blue herons were preoccupied herding their chicks and the Balandra Bay beach, ranked among the world’s finest for its perfect white sand. Surprisingly few people were on the beach, which is a 30-minute drive from La Paz, if you don’t go by boat. In a final surprise, a pod of dolphins swam and leapt over the waves alongside the boat, nearly within petting distance, as if they were recruited to perform for us. While visitors come mainly for boating, diving, sport fishing and, in the winter months, whale watching, locals spend more of their time on the malecon. That evening, I saw local walkers and joggers doing their workouts on the beachside path, while fishermen cast off the pedestrian pier and teen sweethearts nestled beneath palapa umbrellas planted in the beach sand.

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My two-day visit to La Paz was far too brief. I decided to return some day to visit the seashore cave paintings, whale museum and serpentarium, and to spend more time browsing the Mercado Bravo, a noisy marketplace of merchants hawking exotic fish, cactus fruits, tropical ice creams and so much more. But it was also a more elemental yearning, most eloquently described by John Steinbeck in his 1951 book, The Log From The Sea of Cortez: “We wondered why so much of the Gulf was familiar to us, why this town had a ‘home’ feeling. We had never seen a town which even looked like La Paz, and yet coming to it was like returning rather than visiting. Some quality there is in the whole Gulf that trips a trigger of recognition so that in fantastic and exotic scenery one finds oneself nodding and SL saying inwardly, ‘Yes, I know.’”

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Will You Be The One?

It is estimated that nearly one in 3 people will experience shingles in their lifetime, and the risk increases after the age of 50. YOU CAN HELP PROTECT YOURSELF AGAINST SHINGLES BY GETTING VACCINATED. ZOSTAVAX® does not protect everyone, so some people who get the vaccine may still get shingles. However, if you develop shingles despite being vaccinated, ZOSTAVAX® can help reduce the intensity and duration of pain. ZOSTAVAX® is indicated for the prevention of herpes zoster (shingles) and for immunization of individuals 50 years of age or older. ZOSTAVAX® does not protect all individuals against the development of shingles or its consequences. ZOSTAVAX® cannot be used to treat existing shingles or the pain associated with existing shingles. If you get shingles even though you have been vaccinated, see your healthcare provider promptly. ZOSTAVAX® should not be used if you: are allergic to any of the components of the vaccine, including gelatin or neomycin; have a blood disorder or any type of cancer that weakens your immune system; have been told by your doctor that you have a weakened immune system as a result of a disease, medications, or other treatment; have active untreated tuberculosis; are pregnant. Women of childbearing age should take the necessary precautions to avoid pregnancy for 3 months following vaccination. Like all vaccines, ZOSTAVAX® can have side effects. In studies, the most common side effects were at the injection site and included redness, pain, swelling, hard lump, itching, warmth, and bruising. Headache and pain in the arm or leg were also reported. Additional side effects reported in general use with ZOSTAVAX® include allergic reactions, which may be serious and may include difficulty in breathing or swallowing, and fever. If you have an allergic reaction, call your doctor right away. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist for a more complete list of side effects for ZOSTAVAX®. Talk to your doctor or healthcare professional about vaccination.

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BYGONE Treasures View of Roatan from Valor

Cutlery, Crockery and Peas in a Row

’ve mastered boil-in-a-bag and can zap frozen vegetables like a top chef, but I don’t always get full marks for plating and presentation. Lining up the peas in soldierly rows next to the instant mashed spuds and the eagerly anticipated three sausages takes a skill that warrants more accolades than I seem to receive. So, leaving aside my injured pride, I thought I’d look at the cutlery and crockery that help turn dinner into the daily grand event. Dinnerware sets abound. Even in recent years, supermarkets would offer plates at a dollar ...for the first one...and then charge much more for the rest. Hands up all of you who have a solitary plate that doesn’t match anything else in your cupboard, and has a Shop-Easy sticker on the bottom. Hmm... more of you than I thought. What should you serve on this? A plant pot would be nice. At the other end of the dish line comes that huge china set that’s been passed down for generations in all its chipped glory, and which is guaranteed not dishwasher safe. Such older sets are often a service for 12, along with all the serving stuff. Check the larger and less-often-used pieces for chips, cracks, worn patterns and scorch marks. These have only sentimental value, or residual use as skeet shooting targets. Items in nice condition like platters, gravy boats, tureens and covered dishes have value to both collectors and to individuals trying to complete a set or replace damaged pieces. Most silverware isn’t silver, but rather a base metal alloy that’s been silverplated. Sterling silver will be hallmarked or stamped 925 or “sterling.” Continental European silver often has lower silver content

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and may be marked 800 BY MICHAEL RICE or 720. Some European pieces are stamped 90, and a common mistake is to think this means 90 per cent silver. It means the pieces are nine per cent silver (90/1000). Sterling objects, even damaged ones, can be sold for silver value. While forks and spoons are an easy sell, knives have steel blades and filler in the handles, leaving only a thin shell of silver to be recovered. Larger silver pieces such as soup ladles, basting spoons, sugar tongs and sauce boats, and small silver pieces such as salt spoons, condiment spoons, napkin rings and butter knives are worth more than melt value. Silver items with monograms or initials engraved on them are less desirable, while those with engraved designs or illustrations are more so. As an example, I have a delightful butter knife hallmarked in the 1880s with a songbird engraved on its blade, which I treasure. It works well for lining up peas in SL soldierly rows. If you have older china or older silver pieces and would like to learn a bit about them and their current values, bring along a small side plate or a fork and spoon to the 8th Annual Senior Expo (see details on page 27). I’ll be at my usual booth valuing and chatting about all sorts of small sized old and interesting items and am happy to help. There’s no charge for this, but you must promise to eat all your vegetables. Comments and suggestions for future columns are welcome and can be sent to Michael Rice, PO Box 86, Saanichton, BC V8M 2C3 or via email to fenian@shaw.ca

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Engaged Here 45 Years Ago

The Dahlia Chef BY JUDEE FONG

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orn and raised in southern China, the second oldest of five brothers and a sister, Wellesley’s Executive Chef Connie Young-Davis learned at an early age to help around the kitchen. “My Dad had nine brothers and a sister,” says Connie. “All my uncles cooked in restaurants and one owned a hotel in Hong Kong. Whenever they came home, they would cook for us and I would hang out with them to watch and learn. In my family, all the men are professional cooks, and I’m the only woman.” Moving to Canada, Connie’s first job was waitressing in a Chinese restaurant. When it wasn’t busy, she liked hanging out in the kitchen. “I liked watching the cooks and asking them about their various dishes,” she recalls. Years later, with a formal culinary education and a well-earned chef’s hat, Connie presides over the Wellesley’s kitchen. She effortlessly handles the workday, cooking twice daily meals for almost 300 people that often includes guests and residents. With the help of her capable staff of cooks and servers, The Wellesley also prepares family dinners, buffets and afternoon teas. Connie understands that cooking for senior appetites can be a challenge. Spicy foods are eliminated because it can react with different residents’ medications. Most prepackaged foods contain additives that may cause future food allergies or exacerbate present allergies, so all the Wellesley’s meals are prepared from scratch. “It’s impossible to please everyone, but I try to learn their individual preferences,” says Chef Connie. “Enticing appetites with tempting meals keeps the residents mentally alert, healthy and happy.” At home, the cheerful chef admits her family doesn’t have any favourite dishes. “My husband and two sons eat everything and like everything,” she says with a smile. “My cooking style is a blend of Chinese and Western cooking. I do cook some Chinese food for the Wellesley residents every now and then.” Connie is an unflappable chef and hostess who genuinely enjoy people. “It’s easy for me to cook for large groups as it’s part of my job. When I cook at home for my family, my husband would look at the amount of food and say, ‘Are more people coming?’” For unexpected tea-time company at home or at work, Connie is prepared as she often bakes and then stores a portion in the freezer. “It’s easy to make extra cakes, cookies, pies and pastries for appetizers. Pastries can be tiny quiches, mini sausage rolls and little savory or sweet tartlets.” When not wearing her chef’s hat, Connie grows award-winning dahlias. Seventeen years ago, she met Harry van Dyk, a renowned gardener who provided his plants to Butchart Gardens. Recognizing a kindred spirit, Harry and Connie shared a decade

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lay of 90 minutes at the U.S. border, in high-80s temperatures, while Customs debated whether dahlias fell into the “agricultural” heading, which meant checking that no Canadian bugs were transported across. Timing was crucial because the blooms had to be cut from the garden at least 24-48 hours before the competition. Transporting the blooms from Victoria to Portland took 20-21 hours on an already hot day. Despite the unforgettable road trip, Connie won several awards, including the coveted “Best in Show.” Connie’s future plans include seeing more of the world, meeting and competing with other dahlia growers, as well as judging more shows. “One day, I would like to write a cookbook as I have collected quite a few recipes,” she says. “I would like the opportunity to teach a cooking class to a small group. Lifestyles have changed a lot and these would be healthy and Chef Connie YoungDavis with her awardsimple dishes.” winning Dahlias. Another hobby Connie enjoys reflects her artistic talents. “I have been baking and decorating cakes for all occasions, using my dahlias or other flowers as the decorations. It combines my love for bakSL ing and gardening. My cakes make people happy.” Photo: Judee Fong

of mentorship and friendship. “Harry was the best gardener I ever met who grew all kinds of plants besides his dahlias,” says Connie. “He taught me everything he knew about dahlias and was generous sharing his gardening knowledge. That’s why I wanted to carry on his tradition of passing along what I had learned. I was lucky to have Harry as my mentor.” Connie later joined the Victoria Dahlia Society to meet others and entered her first competition with a single dahlia in 2004. She won in her category. The dahlia was displayed at the banquet’s “Head” table later that night. “That’s how I got ‘hooked’ and I’ve been competing ever since!” In September 2012, Connie and her husband travelled to Portland, Oregon for an International Dahlia competition. In order to have the flowers arrive in their freshest condition to compete, Connie’s husband constructed an addition to their van that was roomier and could be kept cooler. “We called it the ‘Dahlia-mobile’ and it got 220 dahlias to Portland, Oregon,” laughs Connie. Recalling that trip, Connie remembers the nightmarish de-

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Cuisine

Dining Out in Vancouver

BY JANE CASSIE

confess. I’m a true-blue foodie. And it’s no secret that over the years Metro Vancouver has evolved into a globally-acclaimed cuisine machine. The fusion of international specialties ranging from Italian and Greek to Mexican and Thai is guaranteed to tantalize any taste buds – from the most discerning gourmand to indiscriminate locavores like myself. So, every year, when Dine Out Vancouver Festival comes to town, you can count me in – along with my husband, Brent, a big fan of this palate pleaser too! The 17-day flavour-filled festival, put on by Tourism Vancouver, is the largest of its kind in Canada. Over 200 participating restaurants offer menu selections for a prix fixe cost, many pairing their bounty with local wines and microbrews. “We could head to Yaletown for sushi at Bistro Sakana,” I suggest to Brent, when looking online at the cookery line-up. “Or try one of the Glowbal Collections along this trendy restaurant row.” Pasta at Al Porto’s in Gastown, spicy Rendang beef at any of the five Banana Leafs, aboriginal fare at Salmon n’ Bannock Bistro on Broadway – the eateries for this gastronomical grazer, that span from West Van to White Rock, promise a sure-fire cure for any hunger pangs. In addition to fueling our bellies, we can nourish our brains. Special events are featured daily that add a little education to the epicurean experience. We can learn about BC’s explosive wine industry while sipping signature selections, enjoy fine dining and fine arts in restaurants that pair up with performers, or go to one of the many multi-course menus that are dished up by award-winning chefs. “Let’s combine it with a sleepover,” Brent suggests. “There’s a list of participating hotels offering package deals.” Accommodations range from wallet pleasers to chic retreats and we decide to live it up with a little luxury. The legendary Wedgewood, a boutique hotel that snuggles next to the waterfalls of Robson Square, provides us with just that. This posh property is the brainchild of Eleni Skalbania, a successful hotelier who opened Wedgewood’s doors back in 44 42

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1984. Her inspired impetus lives on today and by teaming up with her sister, Joanna Tsaparas-Piche, daughter, Elpie Marinakis Jackson, and General Manager, Philip Meyer, it continues to be the recipient of blue ribbon accolades. It’s also a long-standing member of the Relais & Chateau, a prestigious collection that represents the finest hotels in the world – pretty much says it all. We’re ushered into a fireside lobby that showcases a collection of fine antiques, original art and floral bouquets – rich rosewood, plush furnishings and shimmering chandeliers. This attention to detail extends out to all 83 rooms and chichi suites, one of which becomes our getaway haven for the night. We chill out in thirsty robes, cuddle on a cozy settee and soothe in the deep soaker tub. And before heading out to wine and dine, I go for the ultimate, an hour-long Classic facial at Wedgewood’s award-winning spa. It’s a signature treatment that extends well beyond my Full Bacchus breakfasts jaw line. From my scalp featuring their famous and shoulders to my finEggs Benny. gers and toes, aesthetician Annie magically massages and releases every gnarled knot and ounce of tension. And after exfoliating, extracting, cleansing and masking my aging pores, I emerge aglow, ready to put my best face forward. “Let’s start by whetting our appetites at a street cart or two,” Brent suggests. “In the plaza at the Vancouver Art Gallery, Street Food City II is in full cook-mode.” Music wafts over the crowd and melds with aromas from over a dozen sizzling grills. Pig On the Street, Holy Perogy, Pazza Rella Pizza – most of these popular nosh spots bear a catchy name that depicts their cuisine. We fill up on butter chicken from Soho Road and smoked salmon from The Kaboom Box. And after washing it down with a strawberry smoothie from The Juice Truck, waddle off to our next eating adventure. Edible Canada, a vibrant bistro and foodie favourite in the heart of Granville Island, is a lover of home-grown goodness. As well as hosting gourmet kayaking weekends and chef-guided tours, they offer a ten-part Dine Out series. The combo of spirits

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and specialties changes daily, as do the educational speakers. Jay Drysdale of Bella Wines expands our knowledge about champagne – everything from its creation to cork popping. And served with the bubbly sips are foie gras and caviar canapés, deliciously crafted by Edible Canada’s in-house chef, Gregory Reid – truly a decadent treat! “It’s time for the grand finale,” Brent says, knowing full well that we’ve made a reservation at Wedgewood’s acclaimed Bacchus Restaurant. “It’s one of Vancouver’s finest!” He’s right. For a number of years this fine diner and convivial bar have gained huge recognition. Dark wood, cushy lounges and plush wingbacks set the intimate setting. And presiding above the baby grand is a portrait of Bacchus, the Greek god of wine and revelry.

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�� The author chows down on a kabob from Soho Road.

Executive Chef, Lee Parsons, and his team of experts take full advantage of BC’s abundance. Our meals begin with Woodland velouté, a mouth-watering blend of Portobello and chanterelle mushrooms, and an iceberg wedge exquisitely drizzled with tangy blue cheese. Exceptional entrées follow – for me it’s the wild salmon that’s wonderfully coupled with artichokes, cured tomato and risotto. Brent goes for the beef – a succulent New York strip sidled by a selection of roasted veggies. Each course is complimented with the perfect vino, then topped off by a choice of desserts: sinfully creamy crème brûlée, heavenly rich chocolate ganache and a raspberry custard bread pudding that Brent claims is better than Mom’s – a winner for sure! After Bacchus Eggs Benny the next morning, we stroll away from this eating extravaganza feeling totally suffonsified. It’s been a great way to celebrate our city – and a wonderful sampling of textures, menus and tastes. But there’s no need to wait ’til the next Dine Out to savour Vancouver’s flavours. This cosmopolitan destination has rightly earned its culinary pedigree and will satisfy any true-blue foodie SL any day of the year. For more information on Dine Out Vancouver, visit www. seniorlivingmag.com/articles/diningout

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Photos: Brent Cassie

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MARCH 2013

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Cuisine

Multicultural Cuisine with Jini Aroon

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much time in the kitchen,” she says. “Seniors do love to go to the senior centres where they can have lunch, socialize with friends and also take part in various activities. You can still eat healthy and delicious foods, even if you are not crazy about cooking and don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.”

Chef, cookbook author and instructor Jini Aroon.

Photo: Bev Yaworski

“A

n interest in food and preparing meals in delicious ways is a passion I acquired at a young age growing up on the tropical island of Sri Lanka,” says Jini Aroon, multicultural chef, cooking instructor and cookbook author. “My home country offers lush vegetation of rice, vegetables, fruits, nuts, spices, and an ocean brimming with fish and sea food. Little did I know that at the age of 10, when my dad taught me to cook a simple meal, known as ‘dhal and rice’ – that I would have the love of cooking so deeply ingrained in me!” Jini enthusiastically shares her love and knowledge of international cuisine with Metro Vancouver residents through cooking classes, an informative website and enticing cookbooks. “I have been a vegetarian for over 25 years,” says Jini. “In North America, we are not eating enough fruits and vegetables, which is not a good example for our children. Basically, all foods fall into three groups: proteins, carbs and fats. While we have no shortage of these food groups, our bodies are starved of the real nutrients such as phyto-chemicals and anti-oxidants, which are only present in fruits and vegetables.” “An average North American gets barely two servings of these, whereas the recommended amount is five to eight servings a day. This is a huge hole in our present nutrition that needs to be fixed, if one is keen on achieving a healthy body free of excess weight and diseases.” Jini is gently persuasive, but not preachy with her healthy cuisine message. She particularly encourages people to include spices and herbs to add flavour to meals and thereby reduce salt and fat content. “In my experience, most seniors seem not to be too enthused about spending

Actively involved in teaching cooking classes for 20 years, including classes in Vancouver and through the Delta School District, Jini has organized a winter/spring line-up of tantalizing courses including: Indian Cooking – Ayurvedic Style (Vegetarian), Thai Cooking and a new class called Healthy-licious Eating. The Ayurvedic style of cooking is one of her culinary passions. Ayurveda has its roots in India, dating back about five thousand years. According to Ayurveda, “We are what we eat!” This food science believes most common illnesses are a result of poor nutrition. Ayurvedic nutrition WWW.SENIORLIVINGMAG.COM

BY BEV YAWORSKI

is concerned mainly with the dietary requirements of individuals. Spices and herbs form an integral part of Ayurvedic healing, because of their ability to be easily absorbed into the body. An Ayurvedic diet is rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains and fibrous food – all to help keep the body energetic and in good health. This way of eating is low in salt to prevent potential fluid retention, and discourages coffee, sodas and alcohol. In Jini’s Indian Vegetarian class, you are likely to cook up dishes such as: Kicherie (rice and lentils), Dosa (lentil crepes) or coconut chutneys – all made tasty, but with no butter or cream. Her Thai meals highlight the aromatic flavours of lemongrass, lime leaves, Thai basil and coconut milk combined with meats, seafood, fresh vegetables or tofu. Green or red curries, spicy eggplant and fresh salad rolls with peanut sauce add to her Thai menus. Jini’s commitment to healthy eating spills over into a generous contribution of her vast food knowledge into many charitable events, including to her local food bank and Delta Food Security Committee. Coordinating an annual Christmas Food Bank dinner, facilitating a community kitchen and volunteering with a farmer’s market are some of her volunteer contributions to community food events. For the 2012 Christmas Food Bank dinner at the Ladner Christian Fellowship church hall, Jini coordinated many volunteers and the cooking of eight turkeys, 50 pounds of potatoes, 20 pounds of squash, and six trays of stuffing. It may not have been an example of an ideal vegetarian feast, reports Jini, but it was what people requested. She made sure the holiday meal also included a tasty fresh green salad to round out the festive event. About 100 people attended including about

Featured Business 20 volunteer dinner helpers. In 2004, Jini visited Sri Lanka and witnessed the unbelievable destruction caused by a tsunami. She felt compelled to do something to help. Quickly pulling together a collection of her favourite recipes from multicultural cuisines, she created a cookbook called Ethnic Pleasures – featuring gourmet recipes from four different cultures: Thailand, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and South India. A portion of sales from this first cookbook are donated to the rebuilding efforts for the 2004 Asian tsunami victims. Jini is now in the midst of writing a new cookbook – to be called Healthy-licious Eating – to emphasize her philosophy of simple, easy-to-make recipes that anyone can try, even without any experience in the kitchen. It will have recipe sections for smoothies, raw soups, salads, SL snacks and more. To find out more about Jini Aroon’s cookbooks, free recipe samples, cooking demos or classes, contact her at: jinisethnicgourmet.com

�� Sometimes kids get really impatient as their parents wrap their minds around new concepts, or parents can find the role reversal difficult. “The kids may know how to use technology, but being able to relate what you’re doing to Mom or Dad is a whole different ballgame. It can cause a great deal of anxiety and frustration,” says Jennifer. “Most of the time I am the person people call as a last resort after they’ve tried everything. They’ve done the classroom; they’ve tried learning from their kids... I can’t tell you how many kids phone me about their parent,” she laughs.

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clients had a closet full of film reels she wanted to share with her out of country relatives. She turned to Jennifer to find a solution. “We set her up in her basement with her film reels going, and we re-recorded it with a good quality HD camera her son bought off E-Bay. Then we took the digital format, converted them to PAL, had her narrate them, and finally converted them to DVD discs which she was able to take back to England to show her relatives.” “If possible, I always enjoy getting the children involved with their parents during the learning process. I just finished setting up a couple; they had two new computers – one for the husband and one for the wife. Working with their son living in Edmonton, we set up the whole system and surprised them!”

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Jennifer has never met a person she could not teach. “One of the greatest teaching challenges I’ve experienced was when I worked with a 98 year old lady who was once a code breaker with MI5. It was difficult to convince her that her computer was secure.” Comparisons between older and newer technologies is a tactic that Jennifer and her tutors often employ as a starting point to teach their mature student how to use new technologies. For instance, one of her recent

The couple’s kids were very grateful. Maybe in part because they didn’t have to try to teach their parents, but mostly because a gift of knowledge and family connection is an amazing gift to buy for someone you love. “I just got off the phone with a lady. She and her sister-in-law in England decided that they want to buy a package of lessons for their father-in-law living in Victoria. He was recently widowed, and they want to find a gift that would be of benefit to him and help him out.” A gift of knowledge for your family is a fantastic idea - especially if it is for the demographic that typically has everything! Learn how you can give the gift of knowledge and family connection!

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MARCH 2013

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Fit for the Adventure Enjoying Healthy Ethnic Cuisine

isiting ethnic restaurants is a cultural treat. Unfortunately, some ethnic dishes can be just as high in fat, sugar or salt as our Western foods – a concern for dieters or those with health concerns. Make sensible choices so you can enjoy traditional foods while still eating healthfully. Try to order entrées containing the most vegetables. Choose foods baked, broiled, braised, grilled, roasted, steamed, simmered or sautéed. Limit anything fried, breaded and/or deep fried or swimming in rich sauces. Sauces are usually high in sugar, fat and sodium. Have them served on the side. Some cultures traditionally add lots of salt to their dishes. However, sodium content largely depends on the chef. Request no salt, if you have hypertension. Here are some healthier choices in several ethic restaurants: Greek nutritious choices include grilled fish and spinach or other greens sautéed with olive oil and garlic.

Try chicken, pork or prawn souvlaki (grilled meat on skewers), hummus with pita, couscous, dolmades, baba ghanoush, tzatziki sauce, stifado stew, lamb or fish with steamed vegetables. Share the spinach pie (spanakopita); it’s as rich in calories and fat as a bacon cheeseburger! Italian cuisine offers tossed salad, shrimp cocktail, tomato or brothbased soup (like minestrone), grilled calamari, grilled chicken, chicken cacciatore, gnocchi, marinara/red sauce, steamed, broiled or boiled seafood. Limit the cream sauces (like Alfredo) and fried meat. Mexican cuisine healthful choices include grilled fish tacos and grilled chicken, gazpacho, chicken or vegetable fajitas, grilled chicken-based dishes (like arroz con pollo), grilled seafoodbased dishes (like camarones de hacha), salsa and picante sauces, soft tacos with chicken or beef, tamales, chicken flautas, chile con carne (hold the cheese)

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BY EVE LEES

and pico de gallo. Go easy on the chimichangas, quesadillias, crunchy tacos, taco salad, chorizo sausage, sour cream and sopapillas. Indian health-boosting meals are vegetable curry with dal, chicken or beef tikka and curried vegetables, tandoori chicken or fish, steamed rice, raita sauce, lentil soup, naan bread, lassi, chicken vindaloo. Be prudent of dishes with “crispy” in the name, as well as anything fried, like samosas (pastry puffs). Chinese nutritious choices include hot and sour soup, wonton soup, steamed (not fried) spring rolls, teriyaki chicken skewers made with steamed or boiled chicken or shrimp, steamed vegetables, steamed (not fried) rice. Share the lemon chicken (the meat is breaded, deep-fried and in a sugary sauce). Thai restaurants offer a variety of healthful dishes like yam or yum salad (vegetables and noodles), larb (meat-based salad), steamed dumplings, seafood-based dishes (like steamed mussels). A soup called Tom Yung Gung, made with shrimp and several herbs and spices has a powerful mix of antioxidants that researchers suggest may inhibit tumor growth. Choose less often: Deep-fried spring rolls, satay, peanut sauce or dressing, fried fish, sweet SL and sour sauce. Eve Lees was a Personal Trainer and Nutrition Counsellor for 30 years. Currently she is a Freelance Health Writer and Speaker.

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FOREVER BY WILLIAM THOMAS

Divorce in Britian – Oddest Spouse Out

“L

ove, the quest. Marriage, the conquest. And divorce, the inquest.” So said American humorist Helen Rowland. And no one is more familiar with matrimonial inquisitions than Vanessa Lloyd Platt, a divorce lawyer in London, England. Platt is campaigning to reform the UK’s divorce laws to include “no-fault divorce.” Antiquated British law still grants a divorce based on reasons of adultery, abandonment and, here’s the real culprit, “unreasonable behaviour.” This last loophole of dissolution allows either spouse to stand up in court and slag the other with such petty and crazy accusations, judges often call a recess, in order to stem the laughter. “It’s insane,” says Platt. “These things should not have any part in the procedure.” By these things, barrister Platt is referring to a few of the stranger accusations she has heard in her 30 years of trying to separate spouses on a permanent basis. One Englishman filed for divorce on the basis that his wife “had maliciously and repeatedly served him his least favou-

rite dish, tuna casserole.” “Wot? Tuna again?” In a country where fish and chips are a two- and three-night dinner choice, it’s a wonder anybody stays married. Another man petitioned for divorce because his wife “would, without justification, flirt with any builder or tradesman, inappropriately touching them and declaring that she could not stop herself.” I make that to be Joan Collins’ fourth divorce … as well as an upcoming episode between Becky and Jason on Coronation Street. “Honey! There’s 14 plumbers at the back door! Is the loo backed up again?!” One woman sued for divorce because “her husband insisted she dress and speak in the language of a Klingon character from Star Trek.” It’s called “Captain Kirk’s kinky Klingon syndrome.” The judge ordered both of them to Noshi Shofet and the divorce decree was granted in Di Tsenterpartey. One divorce petition filed by a wife described the scene in which her husband “insisted that his pet tarantula, Timmy, slept in a glass case next to the matrimonial bed.” “Does Timmy want to tickle Mummy’s belly button?” I just don’t see the “unreasonable behaviour” in wanting to have a large, hairy

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venomous spider next to you while you sleep. The most common complaints heard at British divorce proceedings were of husbands with atrocious body odour, and other spouses who changed TV channels too quickly. A combination of both was deadly. This last double whammy – slow on the Speed Stick, rapid on the remote – may have been a factor in the case of a security officer from Walworth, England, named Alhaji Mohamed. He set the record at London’s High Court when he divorced two wives in less than 15 minutes. Both petitioners were initiated by the wives. Maintaining British civility, the presiding judge said: “This must be the very first time in these courts that two ladies have been able to divorce the same gentleman in one afternoon.” Mr. Mohamed’s daily double of divorce could have been much worse. Under Muslim law, he’s entitled up to four wives. That could have taken the better part of an hour and required numbers on the backs of the petitioners. No such speed record for Glynn de Moss Wolfe who was last seen making plans for his twenty-second wedding. Although divorced 21 times, Mr. Wolfe does not take the act of dissolution lightly in that he can recite by heart the names of each of his ex-wives. Englishman David Funk has no trouble remembering the names of his five ex-wives; they were all named Dorothy. Same woman every time. Jerzy and Kathryn Sluckin were married at the registry office in Kensington, England, and within an hour the bride declared it would not work and vanished. I know this sounds kind of fast and frivolous, but really, it was a full hour. Think about it. In that space of time Glynn de Moss Wolfe could have introduced Alhaji Mohamed to three new wives and before the full hour was up, they could have divorced him. All this nonsense is driving people crazy, even newlyweds. So who can blame British groom Max Kay for being a little upset when he was presented with a very high bill at Peckforton Castle in Cheshire, which he had rented for the reception? While his new wife slept in the bridal suite, Max set the castle on fire. In order to calm his nerves, witnesses said Max drank 20 double vodkas at the reception. His wife spent the night on the lawn of the burning castle with 70 friends and family wrapped in blankets. Max got six years for arson; the marriage got nowhere at all. Lawyer Vanessa Lloyd Platt admitted it is sometimes hard to keep a straight face as in the petition claiming, “The respondent is unreasonably demanding sex every night from the petitioner, which is causing friction between the parties.” An unfortunate choice of words since it is the lack of friction between the parties that is at the root of the problem. Brits – not great at marriage; really, really bad at divorce.

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SCAM ALERT

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Point-of-Sale Scams

dentity theft occurs a number of ways. One common way that many people have their private financial information stolen is via point-of-sale (POS) scams. A POS scam occurs when con artists steal debit and credit card information from you while you are paying for an item at a cashier via a POS payment terminal. POS scams take place in both low-tech and high-tech ways. A low-tech way someone may steal your card information could happen when a sales clerk, cashier or waitress writes down your credit card number, name and security code from the back of the card, while you are not paying attention. Another low-tech way your card information could be stolen is when a cashier watches you enter your debit card or credit card PIN number when you pay for an item, then “forgets” to give you back your card after you have paid. To prevent occurrences of these lowtech approaches to identity theft, many stores, restaurants and bars have installed new POS devices that require your debit or credit card to always remain in your personal possession. High-tech methods are also commonly used to steal debit or credit card information. These methods include the installation of false keypads, magnetic strip readers and hidden cameras on or around POS terminals. The intent is to electronically capture your card information and Personal Identification Numbers (PIN) during what appears to be a normal pay-

ment transaction. Handheld card skimmers used by corrupt cashiers can be very small, and fit into the palm of a hand, yet can acquire a great deal of private information very quickly. The main purpose of these devices is to get as much financial account information that they can from your debit or credit card. Scammers then either make purchases online or via phone using your name, accounts and identity OR create actual fake, plastic, fraudulent debit and credit cards in your name. Protect Yourself • Familiarize yourself with what the POS terminals look like that you regularly use. Stop the transaction if you notice anything alarming or odd. • Be wary of cashiers that handle your credit or debit card. If your card is out of your hand, pay attention to where it is being used. • Never allow a sales assistant, cashier or waitress/waiter to swipe your card through a second machine. • Regularly monitor your financial statements. At a minimum, you should be monitoring activity on all your bank and credit card accounts on a monthly basis. If you are an active shopper, you should consider checking your accounts a couple times a month or even weekly. If you feel you have become a victim of a POS scam, be sure to report it immediately to the business, as well as SL your local police.

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MARCH 2013

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Reﬂections THEN & NOW

had someone say to me the other day: “How are you, my friend?” I didn’t realize he considered me a friend, and I felt pretty good about that. By the time I took a breath to answer, he was half-way down the block. (Some way to treat a friend!) I have people ask me “How are you?” all the time. But I know they not only won’t wait for an answer, they really don’t care and don’t want one unless it’s “Fine, Thank you!” or “Pretty good!” Such a greeting is not really an enquiry to our health, but more a salutation to state they know who we are and are letting us know that they notice us. But when you tack “friend” onto it, well, that’s another story altogether. Friend is a sacred word and shouldn’t be bantered around carelessly. I guess we’ve all heard that old cliché: “If you can count your friends on one hand, you’ve lived a good life” (or something like that). It sounds very dramatic and macho and, to some, wise. But, actually, I find it dumb and pretty inaccurate and kind of juvenile. I don’t think we choose our friends. I think they choose us. What I mean by that is I don’t need your permission to be your friend. Even if you despise me, I can still vie to be your friend and

there’s not a thing you can do about it. You can throw stones, spray graffiti on my house, try to hit BY me with your car while I’m crossing the street, ring my doorbell then run… whatever! It doesn’t matter if I refuse to retaliate and get all bent out of shape. If I say good and nice things about you even while being attacked, there’s no defence against something like that. It’s my choice and, therefore, shouts to the world that I am your friend, even if you adamantly claim that you are not mine. I think that’s the kind of friendship and love that Jesus was talking about: turning the other cheek; going the extra mile; praying for your enemies, and so on. Who knows? Maybe, just maybe, the one who maintains he or she is your enemy may, sooner or later, become your friend. A long ago friend (at least I think he was) once gave me this sage advice: “Don’t ‘react’ to a situation. Instead, ‘respond’ and you will probably come to a far different conclusion than you would have had you reacted on the spur of the moment.” I’ve tried to practise that gentle message received so long ago. I’m not al-

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Photo: Krystle Wiseman

YOU’VE GOT A FRIEND

ways successful, but I am aware that I could have taken a better path and I am emotionally “poorer” for making what I feel was the wrong decision. To react is far too often a striking out at someone who may have insulted you or maligned you. While responding you take time to consider what the other person has said or done against you. The hardest thing to do, I guess, is look deep to see if what they have said against you is true. At least it is for me. Often, the truth hurts and it is difficult to face that fact and admit it. The old saying still stands: “Hatred and intolerance vote against you. Peace and patience vote for you. You and you alone have the deciding vote.” This takes me back to the beginning: it is not your choice, but mine, should I be your friend. Friendship is not a trade-off in my mind. It’s a responsibility and one that needs to be taken seriously. If everybody could be everybody’s friend, then I believe that war would end and peace would come. We can wish for peace, but unless we are willing to be active in its responsibility, then it is simply that – a wish! I guess it’s time to get down off my soapbox. But, in closing, I’d like to say this: I never really worry about how many friends I have, but try to concentrate on being a friend to others. Dear readers, should you be alone out there, even as these words may be scattered about in your brain – though we may never meet face to face – you’ve got a friend! SL

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