A guide to good living in the Brazos Valley
Inside...
Summer Cool Down
Chef Diane makes a watermelon gazpacho that’s sure to please Pg. 6
On the Road
AARP driving class gets drivers up to speed on changing conditions Pg. 4
July 2011 • Vol. 4, Issue 3 • A monthly publication of the Bryan-College Station Eagle
EatRight, StayFit Keepupwithyour body’s changing dietaryneeds PAGE 8
50plus
CONTENTS AARP Driving Program Financial Literacy: Picking an advisor Chef Diane: Watermelon Gazpacho Cover: Eat Right, Stay Fit Bradway: Lower Back Pain Money Matters Calendar
4 5 6 8 11 12 13
Calendar events
July 2011
Do you have an event you’d like on the 50plus calendar? Email it to billy.mau@theeagle.com (subject line:50plus calendar) or fax it to 979-774-0053 (attn Billy Mau). Calendar space is first-come-first-served.
50plus is a monthly publication of Bryan-College Station Communications Inc. 1729 Briarcrest Drive Bryan, Texas
PUBLISHER Jim Wilson
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For more information on 50plus advertising opportunities, call the Advertising Department at 979-731-4738
Why it’s hard for old dogs to learn new tricks In last November’s issue of 50Plus, my column dealt with things the elderly can do to stay sharp and improve memory capability. I made the point that “old dogs can learn new tricks,” but it just might be a little harder and take longer. The main point of that column was that older people should take on mental challenges and gain confidence in their ability to remember new things. There are other considerations for learning ability — like stress, for example. New learning requires the junctions between nerve cells, called synapses, to be easily modified by experience. This “plasticity,” as it is called, is affected by stress, the effects of which are more pronounced with age. Stress, or more precisely the cortisonelike hormones it releases, reduces synapse contact points, as can be seen in a
microscope as the number of little spiny projections from the membrane of nerve cells. These spines are the functional contact points between neurons. Researchers in the lab of J. H. Morrison at Mount Sinai School of Medicine have shown that neurons of older monkeys had fewer synaptic Dr. BiLL KLeMM the memory meDic spines, and the amount of decrease in any given older monkey correlated performance on task learning. The researchers then went on to consider why older animals have fewer spines. Since stress was a well-known cause of decreased spines, and older animals have experienced more stress simply from living longer, they reasoned that stress might be the
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underlying cause of agerelated decline in synaptic spines. So, in another experiment, they examined the effects of stress in rats and tested to see if those effects varied with age. Stress was produced by putting young, middle-aged, and elderly rats in a confined space for a few hours. As expected, older rats had fewer spines. But more interesting was the fact that in young rats, the single episode of stress caused dendritic spine loss and altered spine structure, showing that the young brains were responsive to stress. But in middle-aged and aged rats spines were remarkably stable and did not show evidence of structural remodeling in response to the stressful experience.
See Memory Medic page 10
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July 2011
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AARP class helps drivers adjust to new driving conditions By SHARON ROE
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July 2011
Special to The Eagle The first question volunteer Byron Blaschke asks his AARP Driver Safety Course participants is how many years they have been driving. Blaschke, AARP’s Driver Safety Zone Coordinator for Brazos and surrounding counties, is in the business of bringing seniors up to date on all the changes that have taken place since they began driving. “In the 30-60 years they’ve been behind the wheel,” said Blaschke. “Roads, highways, signage, signals and vehicles have changed quite significantly.” According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2009 alone seniors injured in car crashes totaled 187,000, while 5,288 were killed. That year they also made up 16 percent of all traffic fatalities. AARP tailors their course to offset these statistics, providing needed information and training. “The course includes a considerable amount of material on what happens to
bodies as we mature,” said Blaschke. “We discuss changes in eyesight, hearing, reaction time and the flexibility of our bodies, which can have a negative impact on our driving ability and how we drive. The goal of the course is to extend our mobility and independence as long as possible.” The four-hour course can be taken in a classroom setting or online, although the online version takes slightly longer to complete. AARP membership is not required to take the course, but costs a bit more.
Classroom instruction is $12 for members and $14 for nonmembers, while the online course is $15.95 for members and $19.95 for nonmembers. “It’s advantageous to take the course to keep from being involved in accidents or ticketed,” said Fred Forsthoff, District Coordinator for AARP’s Driver’s Safety Course for District 1601. “Most insurance companies offer a discount on the liability portion of your insurance. The amount varies among insurance companies, but it can be substantial savings, so
be sure to check with them.” The course uses various methods to present information, keeping the pace moving. “There’s some lecture, and some video,” said Blaschke. “We give plenty of opportunities for discussion and there are no exams.” Topics covered include minimizing blind spots, making turns at busy intersections, the use of air bags, anti-lock brakes, reactive cruise control and GPS systems, as well as the effects of medications on driving. “We especially bear down on eating, drinking, smoking and cell phone use while driving,” Forsthoff said. “Driving is actually a full time job. When you start tuning the radio or talking to passengers, it takes your mind off of what you’re doing.” All courses are led by volunteer instructors, and are hosted by local businesses and organizations. “We’re anxious to get more hosts,” said Forsthoff. “We would like to schedule classes at night or on Saturdays. These days, many people are working at this age, and can’t get off work
to attend. We want to schedule more classes to reach those people. All we ask is for the host to have a room with a TV and access to a VCR or DVD player.” AARP is also cooperating with the National Teacher Retirement Association, (NTRA) by offering the course during July and August free of charge to retired teachers. Vouchers can be obtained by calling NTRA. “When I started driving back in 1954, if the cars had a heater, you were lucky,” said Forsthoff. “Everything’s different now. We try to offer our participants suggestions on how they can continue driving in a safe manner.” AARP is currently taking registration for two classes, the first to be held July 14 at the Isle of Watercrest in Bryan, which will run from 10 am to 3 pm and will include a light lunch. To register, call 979-7742220. Another, held Aug 8 at the Main Watercrest building, is from 1-5 pm. Register for that class at 979-703-7088. For more information or to find a class, visit AARP.com or call Fred Forsthoff at 979-774-8997.
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Who else will be working on my account? Financial planning often involves others in the office or the assistance of outside professionals. Don’t hesitate to meet the others working with you; gather information about their qualifications and involvement in your investments. If any outside professionals are used, such as an attorney, insurance agent, or tax specialist, get a list of their names and check on their backgrounds. How much time will you spend with me? Advisors usually contact their clients quarterly. This can range from a statement of investment performance to a face-to-face meeting. Find out how accessible this advisor will be for you by phone, email and appointments. Is this firm a SIPC member? SIPC is the Securities Investor Protection Corporation. Congress mandates that it maintain a special reserve to protect customers of insolvent brokerage firms. Not all investments are protected by SIPC, and SIPC is not the FDIC. Some ineligible investments are futures contracts, limited partnerships and fixed annuities. Some firms are actually a group of firms. Be sure your money will be invested with the firm that is a member of SIPC.
May I have your ADV form? If the firm does not have an ADV form, get up and leave the office. This form is required of investment advisors to register with both the SEC and the state securities board. The form comes in two parts. Part 1 includes information about the business, ownership, clients, employees and disciplinary actions. Part 2 is a narrative written in plain English about the kinds of services offered, the fee schedule, disciplinary information, conflicts of interest and backgrounds. What kinds of investments do you recommend? Do you get an answer you can understand? Don’t invest in anything that you do not understand. It is crucial that you know where your money is invested and that your advisor chooses investments in your best interests and to meet your needs, not his or her needs. If you leave this firm, can I follow you or will I be assigned a replacement broker? Know what your options are if your broker leaves. Find out if there would be any fees associated with following your broker
See Stewart page 14
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advisor should be able to hand you a written description of how you will pay him or her. Methods of compensation can include an hourly rate, a flat rate, a percentage of your investments, a commission from products he/she sells you, or a combination of commission and hourly fees. What are your other clients like? You are looking for two pieces of information. One is how much the advisor tells you about his or her clients. Is there a breach of confidentiality? If so, assume that your private information will also be made public. The second is TracY STewarT to find out whether Financial literacy this advisor is a good fit for you. When the other clients are similar to you in their attitude toward risk, wealth level, age, and financial goals, the fit might be good. What services do you offer? Know what your needs are and verify that this advisor’s specialty meets those needs with his or her other clients. Check for consistency between the services and products offered and the credentials on the business card.
July 2011
You want to invest for retirement, but choosing investments is confusing and time-consuming. After reading so many stories about crooked investment advisors, you may be afraid to trust anyone. If you decide to look into working with a financial advisor, consider asking him or her these questions when you first meet. What is your employment history? If the advisor has moved firms often, ask for clear explanations. If none are given, skip this person. If you are still interested, check out this advisor with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority at http://www.finra. org/Investors/ToolsCalculators/ BrokerCheck. Even better, investigate potential financial advisors before your first meeting with them. What are your qualifications? Ask about his or her licenses and certifications. Before hiring this advisor, learn about the quality of the certifications on the Finra website. Go to the web address: http:// apps.finra.org/DataDirectory/1/ prodesignations.aspx to learn about those certifications that adorn the business card. Certifications that take years to attain are better quality than those with a quickie course and openbook test. How are you paid? A financial
50plus
Buyer beware: Tips for choosing a financial advisor
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50plus July 2011 The Eagle • theeagle.com
Enjoy watermelon in a new way with gazpacho During summer in Texas, we all look for recipes to cool off our meals. So at this time of year, my thoughts turn to watermelon—that most refreshing of fruits that can be served many different ways. Watermelon grows well locally, and they are available everywhere. I think you will find this soup cool and inviting. You can serve it for lunch or as an accompaniment Diane LeSTina at dinner. The tomatillos give cook it Simple it a nice zing, www.cheFDiane.com but if you are looking for more spice, add the optional serrano chile. Store uncut watermelon at room temperature, and store cut watermelon in the refrigerator with two layers of plastic wrap because it tends to absorb refrigerator flavors. Use cut melon within 2-3 days.
Watermelon Gazpacho Yield: 4 cups • 6 cups seedless watermelon, cubed • 3/4 cup tomatillos, papery outer layer removed and diced (2 or 3 depending on the size). • 1 cup Asian or English cucumber, peeled and diced • 1 jalapeno or serrano chile, seeded, diced (optional) • Juice and zest of 1 large lime (or 2 small ones) • 1/2 tsp. salt Place watermelon, tomatillos, cucumber and jalapeno, or serrano if using, in a blender or food processor. Working in batches, if necessary, puree until smooth. Add lime zest, juice, and salt and mix to combine. Refrigerate at least 1 hour; garnish with cucumber slices if desired. Can be made one day ahead.
Diane Lestina, a certified personal chef, holds cooking classes and cooks for residents in the Bryan-College Station area. To learn more, visit www.chefdiane.com
Watermelon is a summer favorite, and Chef Diane’s Watermelon Gazpacho is a new twist on serving it. Cucumbers and tomatillos complement the watermelon and serrano chilis can be added to give the dish a little more kick.
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Recipes from Texas AgriLife Extension Service
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What to do: 1. Wash hands and any cooking surface. 2. Preheat oven to 400°F. 3. Place chicken in 2-quart shallow baking dish. 4. Mix picante sauce, sugar and mustard. Pour over chicken. 5. Bake in oven for 20 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. 6. Serve chicken with rice. Cook Time: 20 minutes Prep Time: 10 minutes Cost per serving: $1.29
Chili Mac
What you need: Utensils: • Large skillet with lid • Stirring Spoon • Knife and Cutting Board • Measuring Spoons and Cups Ingredients: • pound lean ground beef • 1 small onion, chopped • 1/2 medium green pepper, chopped • 1 cup elbow macaroni • 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce, no added salt • 2 cups water • 1 teaspoon chili powder • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1 cup cooked beans • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
What to do: 1. Wash your hands and clean your cooking area. 2. In a large skillet, brown the meat. Drain off any remaining fat. 3. Add the onions and green peppers to the meat and cook for 5 minutes on medium to low heat. 4. Add remaining ingredients, except cheese. 5. Cover and cook on low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. 6. Add cheese and heat until melted. 7. Serve immediately. Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Cost per serving: $0.67
Dietary needs change with age. Knowing what to eat can make staying healthy a lot easier for people over 50. By HOLLI L. ESTRIDGE Special to The Eagle
As people age, a loss of lean body mass can reduce the amount of calories their bodies need. “Most of us can’t eat like we did in our 20s and expect to maintain our weight,” said Jenna Anding, associate professor and extension specialist for the Texas AgriLife Extension Service. “Consuming the right foods and the right amount of calories can help us reach and maintain a healthy body weight.”
Add Nutrients and Vitamins for Health
Anding, a registered and licensed dietitian, said older adults should strive to eat meals flush with the following nutrients and vitamins for optimal health: • Calcium and Vitamin D (needed to maintain bone health) - Current recommendations call for three servings of Vitamin D-fortified, low-fat or fat-free milk or yogurt each day. Other calcium sources include fortified cereals, fortified juice, canned fish with small bones and even some dark green leafy vegetables; • Vitamin B12 (a water-soluble vitamin that plays a number of roles in the body including red blood cell formation, protein and fat metabolism, and neurological function) - This vitamin is naturally found in meat, milk, cheese, eggs, poultry, fish and shellfish. Cereals and other plant-based foods that have been fortified with vitamin B12 are also good choices “As we age, declining levels of stomach acid can make it difficult for the body to absorb vitamin B12,” said Anding. “Therefore, it is recommended that adults over age 50 consume foods that are fortified with vitamin B12 or take a dietary supplement of B12. • Fiber - Consuming vegetables, fruits, and whole grains can help supply the dietary fiber needed to help older adults stay “regular” and perhaps help prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
Myplate.gov
Myplate.gov — the USDA’s new dietary guidelines, developed as a revision of its widely-recognized Food Pyramid — is a reliable source of user-friendly guidelines, said Kaye Fitz, a clinical dietitian for the Physicians Centre in Bryan. “The site shows you how to build a healthy plate,” said Fitz. “Half of your plate should be fruits and vegetables — to get that fiber in is so important.” The site also recommends substituting whole grains and skim
or 1 percent milk to cut down on fat, as well as reducing sodium, saturated fat, transfatty acids and added sugars, while increasing fruits and vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products.
Balanced Meals
Fitz recommends three balanced meals for older adults, and two light snacks — though snacking is not essential. “If you are going to have a snack, it needs to be something that fits in the food groups, like lowfat yogurt or vegetables, instead of things like chips and junk foods,” Fitz said. “And keep the portions small.” Anding said older adults could also benefit from a multi-vitamin or mineral supplement, especially if their diets are lacking in targeted nutrients, they take medications that can interfere with nutrient absorption or they have certain medical conditions. “Be sure to select a multivitamin/mineral supplement that is formulated for older adults,” Anding said. “It is always a good idea to check with your physician and let him or her know all the dietary supplements that you take, because some supplements can interfere with medications.” Fitz adds that staying hydrated is extremely important. Six to eight glasses of water a day is standard for individuals wanting to maintain health.
Food Safety
Also as senses decrease, older adults will need to pay closer attention to food safety. Teresa Rivera, nutrition educator for the Texas AgriLife Extension Service program Better Living for Texans, said she encourages seniors to wash fruits and vegetables and keep food in the refrigerator for no longer than two to three days. “They should use a food thermometer to test the foods they are preparing and use freezing to extend the life of their food and keep it safe,” said Rivera. In monthly nutrition classes held at College Station’s Lincoln Recreation Center, Rivera talks to seniors about dating food items and keeping calendars outside their refrigerator. Rivera’s nutrition program is held 10 a.m. on the third Tuesday of every month in College Station. For more information on Better Living for Texans, access www.brazos.agrilife.org.
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What you need: Utensils: • 2-quart shallow baking dish • Measuring cups and spoons • Mixing bowl and spoon • Meat thermometer Ingredients: 4 boneless chicken breast halves 11/2 cups picante sauce 3 tablespoons packed light brown sugar 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 3 cups cooked brown rice
July 2011
July 2011
Texas Two-Step Chicken
Eat Right, Stay Fit
50plus
Senior Dishes
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50plus July 2011 The Eagle • theeagle.com
Stroke strikes younger, more often in Hispanics
(ARA) - Each year, 795,000 Americans suffer a stroke. Though stroke has dropped from the third to the fourth leading cause of death, it remains the leading cause of long-term disability in the U.S. Even more alarming is that strokes occur more often and are deadlier for Hispanics - including young and middleaged adults - than for other races and ethnicities. In fact, the average age for strokes among Hispanics is 67, considerably younger than for white Americans. In treating stroke, every minute counts. Treatments are available that greatly reduce the damage caused by a stroke. Knowing the symptoms of a stroke, making note of the time of the first stroke symptoms, and getting to the hospital quickly within 60 minutes if possible can help spare someone from serious long-term disability. “Fast action is crucial in reducing the long-
term disabilities and deaths associated with stroke,” says Dr. Walter J. Koroshetz, deputy director of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), part of the National Institutes of Health. “If you recognize a sign or symptom of stroke in your friend or loved one, dial 9-1-1 immediately.” A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. Brain cells die when deprived of oxygen and nutrients provided by blood. Because stroke injures the brain, a person suffering a stroke may not realize what is happening. This is why NINDS recommends that bystanders act rapidly if they recognize any of the following signs of a stroke: • Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg. • Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech.
Memory Medic from page 2
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes. • Sudden trouble walking, dizziness or loss of balance or coordination. • Sudden severe headache with no known cause. Making lifestyle changes can help prevent stroke. NINDS is addressing the high mortality rate of stroke by educating the public about the signs and symptoms of stroke and its risk factors, including high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, family history of stroke, high cholesterol and being overweight. People are advised to talk to their doctors and discuss any concerns about the risk factors of stroke, and find out what they can do to address them. More information on stroke, including how to reduce risk factors, is available from the NINDS. Order free Spanishlanguage materials by calling (800) 352-9424 or by visiting www.stroke.nih.gov.
Card Shark
In other words, older rats had fewer spines in the first place and their brains were less responsive to stressful experience. Several interesting conclusions are possible. The most obvious is that older brains can’t learn as well as younger brains because they have fewer spines in the first place and those they do have are not very responsive. Another possibility is that older brains are more resistant to stress. It may be that to an older brain, stress is less stimulating because those neurons have accommodated to a lifetime of stressful experience. The lesser number of spines in older animals raises other questions. What causes the age-related decrease in spines? Did a lifetime of stress do that or was it just some other consequence of aging? Are people who have had a relatively stress-free life better able to learn? What about people who habitually over-react to stress? Do they suffer impaired ability to learn? We all know that
humans differ in their ability to cope with stress. Are the people with strong coping skills less affected by life’s stresses? Is there a beneficial brain effect in people who meditate, practice yoga, pray a lot, or do other things to reduce stress? Does living a less-stressful life provide compensatory protection against dementia and Alzheimer’s disease? These are all important questions to get answered. If stress and our reactions to stress affect the brain over time, then people need to protect their mental capability as they age by reducing the stress in their life and learning better ways of coping with the stress they can’t avoid. Source: Bloss, E. B. Janssen, W. G., Ohm, D. T. et al. 2011. Evidence for reduced experience-dependent dendritic spine plasticity in the aging prefrontal cortex. J. Neuroscience. 31 (24): 78317839.
Dr. Bill Klemm is a Professor of Neuroscience at Texas A&M University. Visit his blog at ThankYouBrain.com for more memory tips.
W
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If you want to keep your true love’s heart beating strong, forget the champagne and oysters. The real food of love is dark chocolate and red wine, said Susan Ofria, clinical nutrition manager at Gottlieb Memorial Hospital. “You are not even choosing between the lesser of two evils; red wine and dark chocolate have positive components that are actually good for your heart,” says Ofria, a registered dietician at the Loyola University Health System’s Melrose Park campus. Dark chocolate with a cocoa content of 70 percent or higher and red wine contain resveratrol, which has been found to lower blood sugar. Red wine is also a source of catechins which could help improve “good” HDL cholesterol. Ofria recommends the following list of heart healthy ingredients: • Red wine “Pinots, shirahs, merlots — all red wines are a good source of catechins and resveratrol to aid ‘good’ cholesterol,” she said. • Dark chocolate (70 percent or higher cocoa content).
“Truffles, soufflés and even hot chocolate can be a good source of resveratrol and cocoa phenols as long as dark chocolate with a high content of cocoa is used,” according to Ofria. • Salmon/tuna “Especially white or albacore tuna and salmon,” Ofria said, “are excellent sources of mega-3 fatty acids, and canned salmon contains soft bones that give an added boost of calcium intake.” • Walnuts and almonds “Both contain omega 3 fatty acids, vitamin E, magnesium, fiber, heart favorable mono- and polyunsaturated fats.”
Women Urged to Use Their Head to Combat Hair Loss
Hair loss happens to women, too. In men, hair loss shows as receding hairlines and balding at the top of the head. Hair-loss patterns in women look different. They typically maintain the frontal hairline but the hair thins over the top of their heads. Female-pattern baldness has no cure but treatment can help maintain hair. In females, the gold-standard treatment is minoxidil. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved
a 2 percent liquid solution for women. There’s also a 5 percent liquid solution and foam that may work a little better. Many generic versions of the liquid solutions are available. The medication is applied two times daily to the scalp in the hair-thinning area. It can take six months or more to see any benefit. Some women experience hair regrowth, but most will benefit by maintaining the hair they have. “This may not sound too exciting,” says Dr. Rochelle Torgerson, a Mayo Clinic dermatologist, “but it can be a significant benefit over time by keeping the thinning hair from progressing.” Torgerson advises women who experience rapid hair thinning to see a dermatologist. Hair loss has many possible reasons. Usually, female-pattern baldness can be diagnosed with a medical history and exam. A dermatologist may want to do a blood test and a scalp biopsy to determine if a hormone problem or underlying illness needs to be addressed. Mature Life Features
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Dear Danny, A healthy back is something that requires a minimum amount of “core” muscle strength. Thus, being de-conditioned, not having adequate strength in those core muscles can lead to back pain. Core muscles are the muscles around your trunk and pelvis and include; abdominals, low back muscles, hip muscles, and gluteus muscles. The best way to strengthen these core muscles is to use a focused exercise program. It is important to remember that
while you may be inspired to do exercises now because your back is hurting, it will be important to continue these exercises even when your back no longer hurts because you don’t want to become deconditioned again. The core muscle strength and flexibility program that I would recommend consists of: · Sitting hamstring stretches: 85 percent of those with back pain can not touch their toes. It is the highest correlation of future back pain that we have. Keeping your hamstrings loose can go a long way toward preventing future back pain. · Wall Plank: The four key muscles that need to be strengthened are abdominal muscles, back muscles, gluteus muscles and leg muscles. One exercise that strengthens all four of these muscle groups is called the plank. For those of us that cannot get down on the floor, the plank can also be done by leaning against a sturdy wall at home. A plank is done by placing your elbows, forearms and hands against a wall; your feet should be together and place them two feet from the wall. In this position tuck in your stomach muscles
Red Wine and Chocolate Help a Healthy Heart
July 2011
Hi, I’m 60 years old and have had back pain off and on for a number of years now. My doctor gave me exercises to do at home but I keep forgetting them and honestly I just don’t have the time to spend 30 minutes a day doing exercises. Is there a streamlined exercise program for back pain that would work for me? My doctor said my MRI indicated that I didn’t have a disc problem. I am 50 pounds overweight and Leon BraDwaY as I said I don’t phySical therapy exercise much so I imagine I’m not in the best condition. Danny. B., Bryan, Tx.
HEALTH MATTERS
50plus
What to do about lower back pain
979-776-7564
or 1-800-338-7864
MARR EYE CENTER William H. Marr, M.D., P.A. Diplomate of the American Board of Ophthamology
Jamie Houser, O.D.
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50plus July 2011 The Eagle • theeagle.com
MONEY MATTERS Stretch and Save Social Security Benefits Whether you’re approaching retirement or already there, The Senior Citizens League has prepared a consumer-savings guide available for $1 for shipping and handling. The latest “Best Ways to Save” publication is designed for “seniors living on fixed incomes to learn how to trim their biggest costs and stretch their Social Security benefits,” said Larry Hyland, league chairman. One of its major headings is “Six Steps For Getting Six Months’ Worth of Prescription Meds for the Cost of Two!” There’s a section on maximizing healthcare tax deductions and another on cutting your way through “free” Medicare preventive benefits that come with strings attached and learning how to prevent unexpected extra charges. To request your free issue, send $1 for postage and handling to The Senior Citizens League, ATTN: BWTS, 1001 N. Fairfax St., #101, Alexandria, VA 22314, or visit the league’s website at www. SeniorsLeague.org.
Aging Population Expands By 2030, seniors between 65
and 74 years of age will account for 10 percent of the U.S. population, almost double what it was at the turn of this century. Those older than 75 will account for 9 percent in that year and grow to 12 percent in 2050. Also, by 2040, this age group will exceed the number of those aged 65 to 74.
Give of Your Free Time at Home “Virtual Volunteering,” which stumbled into the vocabulary a few years ago, means just that: you give of your time and talents without being there. You provide it through and with your desktop or laptop or notebook or whatever-size computer. While it still requires drivers to deliver the food for Meals on Wheels, for example, there are other duties you can do at home. All you have to do is contact the agency in which you’re interested. You can do that by phone or computer. Do you want to support an environmental campaign, local politician, or shelter for the homeless? Just type those words into your search engine and you’ll likely find one or more agencies looking for volunteers. Mature Life Features
Living Life
of aphasia. The doctors didn’t give Coach a strong prognosis. “They all but said he was going to die, that he’d live maybe four or five years, and this is back in 1992”, his son Kevin said. In spite of that prognosis, Coach is living an independent life at Waldenbrooke Estates in his own apartment where he entertains visiting family and friends. He also stays socially active with all the events and activities Waldenbrooke hosts, and still makes time to play catch with the staff.
People may not know his name, but many folks traveling around Waldenbrooke Estates are quite familiar with Don “Coach” Lewis. He’s been brightening people’s days since he moved to Waldenbrooke in 2010, from his spot out in front of the community where he smiles and waves at passing cars. Coach suffered a debilitating stroke in 1992 at the age of 49. The stroke left him partially paralyzed and with a severe case
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Coach is a Korean War Veteran, where he was a Weapons Specialist and drove for a general. Korea was where he met, fell in love and married his wife Barbara. Coach was a Sports Information Director for the Leander School District and the kids lives he touched are still with those kids today. He would make suggestions to help them improve in whatever sport they were in. He always had a positive effect on everyone he came in contact with. Coach is still being a positive influence every day by spreading cheer to those driving by Waldenbrooke on their way to and from work.
When Barbara passed away in 2001, the people of the neighborhood in Leander asked the family to keep Coach there because of the positive effect he had on everyone with his waving. Unfortunately, he had to move to another community in Austin, where he took up his waving routine with the same effect. “We started getting notes,” Kevin said. “People would pull into the retirement home and leave notes for the man in the wheelchair who waves. Kids would draw him pictures and there was this one lady who was going through a difficult time, and she said his presence gave her something to look forward to and gave her a reason to be happy.” When Kevin decided it was time to move Coach closer to family, they chose Waldenbrooke Estates, and all of them couldn’t be happier with that choice. His friendly nature was a perfect fit for the Waldenbrooke atmosphere even though he can only speak a handful of words and phrases, Coach has had no problems making friends and has become quite popular. In fact, he was even named King of the Waldenbrooke Senior Prom. If you see Coach, give him a honk or a
2410 Memorial Drive, Bryan | www.seniorlifestyle.com
INDEPENDENT RETIREMENT LIVING AT I T S B E S T. • Large 1&2 Bedroom Apartments with Full Kitchen • Walk-in Closets • Dynamic Social & Cultural Programs • Three Full Meals Served Daily • Pet Friendly
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wave as you pass. If you or a loved one is considering senior living, say hi to him in person and see what Waldenbrooke Estates Independent Senior Living Community has to offer you and your family.
Ongoing
July 11 Transition of Life Series - This series is offered free for individuals or care providers who are making decisions for themselves, family or friends. Join us on Monday from 10:00 am - 12:00 noon at Southwood Community Center located at 1520 Rock Prairie Rd. Topics include: Independent and Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing Facilities, Hospice and pre-planning for funeral/burial. Refreshments served. Contact Tricia Gonten to make a reservation at 436-2374 or Southwood Community Center at 764-6351. Sponsored by: Physicians Home Medical Equipment and Magnified Health & Rehab of Anderson.
July 19 Free Movie and Popcorn “The Sacketts” - Enjoy a Tom Selleck Western movie and popcorn at Southwood Community Center on the third Tuesday from 1:00 - 3:00 pm located at 1520 Rock Prairie Rd. Contact Southwood Community Center at 764-6351 for more information or College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. July 20 Exploring History Lunch Lecture Series - The College Station Historic Preservation Committee and the Senior Advisory Committee present: “The Eagle, Not Just a One Newspaper Town” with Robert Borden from The EAGLE. Mark your calendar for the Third Wednesday, July 20th at the College Station Conference Center located at 1300 George Bush Dr. Lunch is served at 11:30 am with a reservation. Cost is $5.00 and payable at the door. Speaker begins at 12:00 noon. Please call 764-3491 or e-mail aboykin@cstx.
gov to make your reservation. Genealogy Computer User Group - Learn how to use online programs to research and record your genealogy. Join us on the third Wednesday of each month from 9:30 - 11:30 am at the Southwood Community Center located at 1520 Rock Prairie Rd. Contact Southwood Community Center at 764-6351 for more information or College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.
July 25 Senior Advisory Committee Meeting - Visitors are welcome to attend. The Senior Advisory Committee will meet on Monday at 10:00 am at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Rd. For more information contact College Station Parks & Recreation Department, Senior Services at 764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.
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Expanding our services to better meet your needs We would like to introduce you to you our Medical Directors....
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Affordable Living
July 6 Computer Club for Seniors - All seniors adults are invited to attend the monthly meeting of the Computer Club for Seniors from 9:00 - 10:30 am at the Carters Creek Training Room located at 2200 North Forest Parkway in College Station. No registration required. The topic is “How to Maintain your Computer” with John Rinker. For more information, contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 764-6371 or email: mrodgers@cstx.gov. July 7 Monthly Birthday Celebration - Senior adults are invited to celebrate Independence Day and July Birthdays on the first Thursday at Southwood Community Center
located at 1520 Rock Prairie Rd starting at 1:00 pm. Cake and ice cream will be served by Magnified Health and Rehab. A health topic will be presented and blood pressure check available. Contact Southwood Community Center at 764-6351 for more information or College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov .
July 2011
“Sit & Fit Chair Exercise” Looking for a fun way to exercise in the comfort of a chair? The group meets at Southwood Community Center every Tuesday and Thursday, 12:00 - 12:45pm. The Center is located at 1520 Rock Prairie Rd. Contact Southwood Community Center at 764-6351 for more information or College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 7646371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. Seniors meet to Play 42 - Senior adults meet to play 42 every Thursday at Southwood Community Center located at 1520 Rock Prairie Rd. from 9:30 - 11:30 am. Contact Southwood Community Center at 764-6351 for more information or College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. Friday Bridge - Join other senior adults every Friday from 9:00 am -12:00 noon at Southwood Community Center located at 1520 Rock Prairie Road for a fun day of bridge. Contact Southwood Community Center at 764-6351 for more information or College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 7646371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov Line Dancing - Ready for a great workout? Join other senior adults for Line Dancing at Southwood Community Center located at 1520 Rock Prairie Rd. on Tuesday afternoons from 1:30-2:30pm. Contact Southwood Community Center at 764-6351 for more information or College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 7646371 or mrodgrs@cstx.gov.
July 5 Beginning and Intermediate Computer Class - College Station Parks and Recreation Department is offering summer computer classes designedforsenioradults.Beginning and Intermediate Computer Classes will meet on Tuesdays for 4 weeks starting at 9:00 am or 10:45 am at the Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Rd. Cost is $45.00. To register: please contact the College Station Parks and Recreation Department at 764-3486 or in person at Stephen C. Beachy Central Park, 1000 Krenek Tap Rd. or on-line at parksweb.cstx.gov. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Dept. Senior Services at 764-6371.
50plus
CALENDAR
Dr. Denise Turner, MD
Associate Medical Director
Board Certified in Geriatrics, Hospice and Palliative Care and Family Medicine
....And Our Team Of Caring Professionals.
Planned Resident Activities Fitness Facility Transportation Service Beauty Salon Sparkling Swimming Pool
24 – Hour Emergency Maintenance
Call for move in specials!
979.774.5222
midtowneapts@lankfordinterests.com
Texas Home Health Hospice offers Physician home visits upon admission with follow up visits in your home as needed. Our hospice team is available 24/7
When you call Texas Home Health Hospice after hours an experienced hospice RN will triage your call at once. No delays. No answering service For more information call 1-877-747-3860
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50plus July 2011
Bradway
from page 11 and hold this position for 10, 15 or 30 seconds. Perform 2-3 sets daily. Increase your time 10 – 15 seconds once you feel comfortable. If leaning against the wall is too easy then a plank can be done by lying on your stomach and resting your chest and upper body weight on your forearms/elbows as you press your toes into the surface you are laying on and lifting the entire trunk approximately four inches off the floor or a firm bed. When you are in this position all four major muscle groups function aggressively and help strengthen your core muscles. If you do 20 repetitions of planks and spend three minutes a day stretching your hamstrings in a sitting
Stewart
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from page 5 to another firm. Know whom to call if you receive notice that your broker is gone. What code of conduct do you follow? The “CFA Code of Ethics” and “Standards of Professional Conduct” is a good benchmark answer. (I described the CFA credential in my last column. An advisor does not have to have this credential to follow these behavior guidelines.) Generally, the Code of Ethics requires the advisor to place the interests of clients above their own; to act with integrity and competence; to maintain professional competence. The Standards of
Continued from Page 13
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July 27 Casino Day with lunch “Poker Pals & Gambling Gals” - Join other senior adults on Wednesday, July 27th from 10:00 - 2:00 pm at the Southwood Community Center located at 1520 Rock Prairie Rd, for a fun “Casino Day and Lunch”. Free admission and lunch with a reservation. RSVP College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371. This special event is sponsored by: Magnified Health and Rehab, Physicians Home Medical Equipment, Comfort Keepers Home Health, Fortress Health & Rehab, Lampstand Health & Rehab and Health Quest Home Health. For
position, this will have the most impact of anything that you can do. · If you have additional time, stand and put your hands on your hips and lean backwards (gently…don’t overdo it), sideways and then slowly rotate your trunk left and right. This keeps your trunk flexible. If you would like additional help in doing these important exercises, you can visit our Facebook page (Sports, Back & Pain Management Clinic) or our website BVphysicaltherapy.com. You’ll find a low back exercise video that covers exercises that can help condition your core muscles.
Leon Bradway, PT MS OMPT, Director of Sports, Back & Pain Management Clinic
Professional Conduct include professionalism; duties to clients; investment analysis and recommendations; and conflicts of interest. You can learn more at www.cfainstitute.org. Arm yourself with information. If something doesn’t check out or make sense in the first meeting, skip that advisor and move to the next one. Plan and prepare carefully and thoroughly before making a commitment. Measure twice and cut once.
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more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.
July 29 BINGO for Senior Adults Please join us for Bingo on the last Friday of the month starting at 1:00 pm at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Rd. Prizes provided by SouthernCare Hospice. Refreshments servied. Contact Southwood Community Center at 764-6351 for more information or College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 764-6371 or mrodgers@ cstx.gov
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50plus
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John Russell, Dignity Memorial Jay Meador, Raymond James Debbie Davis, Dexter Mortgage Brad Cernovich
July 2011
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50plus
YoUr cHoIce. THe TrUSTeD cHoIce.
July 2011
Over 30 specialties, plus onsite lab, radiology and therapy services
Keep Up YoUr pace. Doctors of podiatric medicine and surgery (podiatrists) are physicians/surgeons who diagnose, evaluate and treat a wide range of conditions that affect the foot. Foot health affects all parts of life — that’s why you should trust the podiatrists at Scott & White Clinic – College Station. Drs. Joe Martin and Corey Pollard treat patients of all ages and activity levels and work as part of a comprehensive medical team at Scott & White helping to address more complex health concerns such as diabetes, arthritis and sports injuries. Patients’ surgical needs will be addressed in the Scott & White Clinic – College Station on-site ambulatory surgery center. Taking care of your feet will help you take care of life. For more information about this or any of our specialized practice areas, or to schedule your appointment, please call 979-691-3300.
1600 University Drive East | 979-691-3300 | bcs.sw.org Scott & White accepts all major insurance plans.
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Your Podiatry Team at Scott & White Clinic – College Station: Joe Martin, DpM corey pollard, DpM
t
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Healthy Feet. Healthy Lifestyles.
Primary Care Family Medicine Geriatrics Internal Medicine Pediatrics Specialty Care Allergy Anesthesiology Audiology Cardiology Cosmetic Surgery Dermatology Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Gastroenterology (GI) General Surgery Hematology Neonatology Obstetrics / Gynecology Occupational Medicine Oncology Ophthalmology Optometry Orthopedics Physical Therapy podiatry Psychiatry Psychology Speech and Language Pathology TodayCare Urology Subspecialty Care Child Development Nephrology Pediatric Cardiology Pediatric Endocrinology Pediatric Neurology Pulmonology On-Site Ancillary Services Infusion Therapy Laboratory Radiology