50 plus 06 02

A guide to good living in the Brazos Valley

Inside...

Mental health

How to help someone who is grieving

Pg. 3

Financial literacy

Will Social Security go bust?

Pg. 4

June 2015 • Vol. 14, Issue 3 • A monthly publication of the Bryan-College Station Eagle

Exercise for seniors: Swimming, scuba in B-CS PAGE 6

50 Plus is a monthly publication of BryanCollege Station Communications Inc. 1729 Briarcrest Drive Bryan, Texas

Dedicated to being your preferred provider of medical equipment & supplies

Lawn & Gardening Services We are a mom & pop lawn service team that offers professional services for all your lawn and garden needs. Our work is done with pride to your specifications. We are always personally on every job site and available for consultation.

References available from our satisfied customers!

Mowing • Edging • Trimming Bed Preparation/ Planting • Mulching

100 off

$ PUBLISHER

Crystal DuPre

DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING

SPECIAL PROJECTS EDITOR/ PUBLICATION DESIGNER

Julian & Jan McMurrey

with

979.777.1714 | dist7461@hotmail.com

delivery

Shauna Lewis

shauna.lewis@theeagle.com

Jeff Smith

DISPLAY ADVERTISING MANAGER Linda Brinkman

SPECIAL PROJECTS/ MARKETING COORDINATOR Erika Liesman

CONTENTS

979.696.0261 | altusmedicalequipment.com 2551Texas Ave South Suite A | College Station,TX.

Free Estimates!! Give us a call!!

Physical therapy: Solutions to help with pelvic pain

4 Feature: Exercise for seniors

6

Financial literacy: Will Social Security go bust?

4 Memory Medic: Aging research

8

Services Include Nursing:

www.healthquesthomehealth.com

Kimberly John, LVN Trini Perez, Owner Cody John, Marketing

Locally Owned and Family Operated “At HealthQuest, we understand that quality home health care begins with respect, compassion, and understanding.”

• Medication Administration • Diabetic Management • Blood Pressure Monitoring • Wound Care/Wound V.A.C. • Catheter Care • Colostomy Care • Enteral Feeding • PEG Care • PICC Central Line Care • IV Therapy

Medical Social Work:

- Trini Perez, Owner

HealthQuest Home Health

Certified Nurse Aide:

• Bathing • Toileting • Dressing • Linen Changes

Therapy:

• Physical Therapy • Ultrasound Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Speech Therapy

MSW helps with social and emotional concerns related to the patient’s illness. That includes, but is not limited to, the education of community resources.

Phone: 979-846-7870

Payment Options: Medicare (covers 100% in most cases) •Medicaid • Limited Private Insurance • Self-Pay • Worker’s Comp 2 | June 2, 2015

(but are not limited to)

50PLUS

T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

How to help someone who is grieving

“She’s hurting and it’s so hard to watch. I feel helpless. What can I do?

What can I say?” Sandra asked.

Sandra’s good friend, Norma, had just lost her husband.

Though they knew each other well, Sandra found herself in unchartered territory.

Norma’s heart was Gary Roe Hospice broken, and Sandra wondered how to respond.

Most of us have faced similar dilemmas. Watching people we care about suffer isn’t something we look forward to.

Why is this hard for us?

First of all, grief is uncomfortable and its intensity can be unnerving.

Second, others’ grief often triggers our own. We’ve all had losses. Their pain exposes ours, and that hurts.

So usually we do one of two things: we avoid their grief, or we try to fix it.

We laugh and joke, desperately trying to keep the conversation from going there. Or we minimize and patronize, saying things designed to silence their grief and to help them feel better. We say we’re thinking about them, but in reality we’re thinking about ourselves.

We avoid the uncomfortable.

If we’re going to help those who are hurting, we have to get used to large doses of uncomfortability. Tragedies will happen. Our closest friends will lose parents, siblings, spouses and perhaps even children.

What can we do?

The better question is, “What do they need?” Those who are grieving need safe people in their lives.

Safe people don’t try to fix others or situations. They don’t compare losses or judge. They don’t make it about themselves and how they’re feeling.

Safe people meet others where they are, accept them and walk with them in their valley.

Recently when I spoke on this subject, someone raised their hand and asked, “Where do you find people like that? I don’t think I know any!”

Everyone laughed. We could relate.

Safe people can be hard to find.

If we want to help someone who’s grieving, our first goal needs to be to become as safe as possible. This begins T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

with our hearts.

We prepare ourselves to accept others where they are, with all the pain and roller-coaster emotions that come with grief. We coach ourselves to resist the temptation to fix. We chunk any personal agenda we might have, and make it our goal to love them in a way that is comforting and healing.

Many ask, “What do I say?” If we want to be safe people, here are some things NOT to say: • “It’s OK.” It might be OK one day, but it’s not now. Their heart is broken, and it hurts.

• “I know how you feel.” No, we don’t. This was their loss, and it’s unique to them. Maybe we had a similar loss, but it’s not the same.

• “He’s in a better place.” That may be, but she misses him HERE, NOW. • “Life goes on.” Yes, it does, but their world has cratered. It’s like they’ve been hit by a train and are in the grief hospital ICU. They’re in shock and need lots of time to recover.

• “It’s time to move on.” Who are we to say this? Grief has no timetable. It takes as long as it takes. The intensity of grief is completely individual, depending on the closeness of the loss, the relationship and circumstances involved, personality, personal background and prior history of dealing with loss. Grief is not a simple 1-2-3 process.

So what do we say?

As little as possible. Our presence is the key. We need to show up in their lives and just be with them. As we focus on them and attempt to hear their hearts, we’ll be entering their world and walking with them there. This is part of love.

In my experience, safe people are good listeners. They accept us where we are, and open the ears of their hearts. They let us ramble, rant and vent. They listen to the same stories and questions over and over.

Meeting people where they are, opening our hearts and ears, and journeying with them in their grief - I call this “valley-walking.”

Our world is in a lot of pain. We need some good valley-walkers. As you join someone in their valley of grief, here are some things you can expect: • Expect them to be emotional.

When hit by loss, our normal

equilibrium is shattered, and we operate more on emotion than usual.

This is draining and exhausting.

Anxiety, depression, confusion, fear and anger are all a part of this.

• Expect them to be different. Their life has been altered forever. It’s not business as usual for them, so it won’t be for your relationship either. They don’t feel like themselves, so they won’t seem like themselves to you.

• Expect inconsistencies. Grief is a bumpy road. They’re trying to cope with their loved one not being here, and that means adjusting to a new normal – a new life. This can be staggering and overwhelming.

• Expect this to last awhile. How long? As long as it takes. We never get over a loved one. We learn to cope and compensate. Finally, we move on without them, but in a new way.

• Expect changes down the road.

If they are grieving well, they will change. People either get stuck in grief, or heal and grow.

If you want to help others heal, you’ll need to challenge your comfort

50PLUS

zones and grow with them through this. It will be hard, but worth it. As you walk the valley of grief with them, you’ll be reminded of your own losses.

This gives you opportunity to heal a little more. That’s the way valleywalking is intended to work. As we slog through knee-deep mud with those who are hurting, we get stronger as well. We heal best when we heal together.

Chances are all of us have a specific person in mind. How can we show up for them? How can we become safe and accept them more fully? What comfort zones do we need to challenge in order to be truly loving in this situation?

It’s not about getting it right.

Valley-walking isn’t about perfection, experience or skill. It’s about love. So here we go. Show up. Say less. Listen well. Serve from the heart. Then watch the healing happen over time.

Gary Roe is an author, speaker and chaplain with Hospice Brazos Valley (979-821-2266). His most recent book, “Heartbroken: Healing from the Loss of a Spouse” is available on Amazon, www.garyroe.com and at Hospice Brazos Valley in Bryan.

June 2, 2015 | 3

There are solutions to help with pelvic pain in men

I’m 55 years old and have been fairly active up until a few months ago. I was playing basketball with a friend and felt a sharp pain in my groin area.

Ever since then I have had pain in my lower stomach and groin, and can’t sit without pain. I’ve been to several doctors, have been on antibiotics, have had several different diagnoses, and have been told I’ll likely need surgery, but am now wondering if I just pulled a muscle.

Any ideas?

Pain in the pelvic area can originate from many different Leon Bradway Physical Therapy causes, so it is often difficult to pinpoint the true underlying cause and treat it successfully. The National Institute of Health even created a new term, “chronic pelvic pain” (CPP) to describe pelvic pain that is not related to prostatitis because prostatitis was being used as the diagnosis for most pelvic pain patients even if they did not have a bacterial infection. Other causes of pelvic pain, or CPP, include those that originate in the neuromuscular system. This is often difficult to diagnose and does not commonly come to mind as a cause. However, many men do in fact suffer pelvic pain due to muscle issues. As a physical therapist who specializes in male pelvic pain and erectile dysfunction, I know how successfully this can be treated with physical therapy, but I also know

it is often difficult to get the right diagnosis and a referral to physical therapy. In addition, not all physical therapists treat pelvic pain. Examples of the musculoskeletal impairments responsible for pelvic pain include: hypertonic muscles, connective tissue restrictions, pudendal nerve irritation and myofascial trigger points.

• Hypertonic muscles - Chronic contraction of a muscle in response to genetic, mechanical, chemical or psychological stressors. Can contribute to and prolong your pain response.

• Connective tissue restrictions - Connective tissue restrictions occur primarily in the fascia, which is a thick but strong connective tissue that is continuous throughout the body. One visible example is a scar from an injury or surgery. Other restrictions can occur in deeper layers of the fascia and may go undetected.

• Pudendal Nerve irritation Pudendal neuralgia is defined as pain in the distribution of the pudendal nerve, specifically the rectum, vagina, penis, perineum and mons pubis. It can refer to nearby areas in the pelvis, but the predominant area of pain is in the areas described initially. Pudendal neuralgia, or nerve entrapment, often involves a component of biomechanical dysfunction in the SI joint, as well as pelvic floor muscle tightness, including Connective Tissue Dysfunction (http:// www.pelvichealthsolutions.ca/for-thepatient/pudendal-nerve-irritation/).

• Myofascial trigger points – “The term “trigger point” was coined in

1942 by Dr. Janet Travell to describe a clinical finding with the following characteristics: 1) Pain related to a discrete, irritable point in skeletal muscle or fascia, not caused by acute local trauma, inflammation, degeneration, neoplasm or infection.

2) The painful point can be felt as a nodule or tight band in the muscle and a twitch response can be elicited on stimulation of the trigger point.

3) Palpation of the trigger point reproduces the patient’s complaint of pain, and the pain radiates in a distribution typical of the specific muscle harboring the trigger point.

4) The pain cannot be explained by findings on neurological examination (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ Trigger_point). There is general agreement that direct trauma to the muscle can lead to the development of trigger points as well as muscle overuse that may develop during occupational, recreational or sports activities when muscle use exceeds muscle capacity and normal recovery is disturbed (www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ pmc/articles/PMC3440564/).

While trigger points and spasms may go away on their own, often if they come on suddenly, you will need a professional’s help to resolve them.

Physical therapists are qualified to address the neuromuscular system with natural, conservative treatment methods -- always a good place to start. It will be clear within the first two to three treatments if

4 | June 2, 2015

where will they get the money to pay your Social Security check when you retire? Will there be enough payroll taxes coming in to cover your benefit check?

To answer those questions, we must first address the common confusion about how the Social Security system works. A recent podcast at the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) – accessible only to AICPA members – explains how the Social Security system works.

Via the payroll tax system, we tax current workers via FICA withholding at 6.2 percent to the employee and 6.2 percent is paid by the employer with 12.4

Leon Bradway is a doctor of physical therapy and director of the Sports, Back and Pain Management Clinic. See www. bvphysicaltherapy.com.

K. RAGUPATHI

GASTROENTEROLOGY

Specialization in Diagnosis & Treating

Social Security: Will it go bust?

According to Forbes magazine, Social Security replaces about 40 percent of the average person’s retirement income and is the largest source of retirement income for most people. Contrary to common assumption, your contributions are not really going into an account with your name on it. TracY Stewart Financial Literacy They are going out to those who are currently getting Social Security checks. You may ask,

physical therapy is the right treatment; however, it may take several weeks to resolve the pain completely and require follow–up visits periodically or if the pain returns. CPP symptoms can include: urination problems (i.e., painful, frequent, hesitant), pain in different areas of the body (e.g., penile, scrotal, rectal, perineal, stomach, pain when sitting) and bodily dysfunction (e.g., bowel and sexual). I treat male pelvic pain by addressing trigger points, lengthening tight muscles, manipulating connective tissues and correcting structural abnormalities.

While physical therapy is an effective treatment for male pelvic pain, it is often difficult for the patient to find the right provider or they may not be referred to physical therapy at all. In addition, not all physical therapists treat pelvic pain and not all of those that do treat male pelvic pain.

Also, your doctor may be unaware that physical therapy is an effective treatment option. So it is important to talk with your physician about referring you to a physical therapist experienced in treating male pelvic problems and to do some research.

percent to the self-employed.

These dollars go into the Social Security program and are turned around to pay out to current retirees in Social Security benefit checks. This has been how it has worked for the past 30 years. We have had more money coming in from payroll taxes than going out in benefit checks. Thus, we have a surplus called the Social Security Trust Fund, which funds have been invested in special government bonds that did not have any interest rate risk.

See Stewart page 5

50PLUS

•Abdominal Pain • Gallstones • Ulcers • Diarrhea • Constipation • Pancreatitis • Hepatitis • Colon Cancer Screening • Endoscopy • LiverBiopsy • ERCP Dr. K. Ragupathi Gastroenterology (979) 693-6641 After Hours & Emergencies (979) 361-5082 1602 Rock Prairie Road • Suite 200 • College Station Most Insurance Plans accepted | www.bcsgastroenterology.com T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

Stewart

from page 4 This year, however, we are nearing a crossover point. The money being paid out to retirees is a little bit more than the money coming in from payroll taxes. We are beginning to have to sell bonds to get cash.

If we literally do nothing to fix the system for the next 100 years, the benefits paid out will not go to zero. Not even close. The worst situation will be that in 100 years the Social Security benefit checks will be 75 percent of what they are now. That is the situation if we do nothing and run this puppy off the cliff.

Many people are saying the Social Security system is bankrupt and they either need to start taking money now while they can get it or they assume they will get nothing. This is not a 100 percent problem. This is a 25 percent problem. In the AICPA podcast, Michael Kitces, nationally known financial planner, says, “about 20 years from now you might have to take a 25 percent haircut if we literally do nothing.”

Kitces explains further that no one took a benefit cut after the 1984

law instituted taxation of Social Security and increased the age for taking normal benefits. “By the time the 30-somethings reach retirement, they could be waiting until age 70 to start getting Social Security and will have been paying another 1 percent in payroll taxes. Sustainability of Social Security is not a mystery of what to do.

It is actually just one giant actuarial math problem. We know how to do the calculation.” With technology, our ability to calculate projections is far greater now than it was 30 years ago.”

Also on the AICPA podcast is my friend and colleague, Ted Sarenski, CPA/PFS, CFP. He is an expert on Social Security and wrote the “CPA’s Guide to Social Security Planning” for financial planners. He points out the general concern is that the lower paid people will be hurt the most.

In the podcast, he explains a simple scenario. If the FICA withholding is increased by 1 percent (half a percent for the employee and half a percent for the employer), that would generate $100 per year to Social Security on a $20,000 per year employee. Over 40 years, that is $4,000 extra for Social Security. When this employee retires, they will get $1,000 per month in Social Security benefits. They will have recovered their money in four and a

half months. In contrast, the higher earners never recover get their money back under the current system. Sarenski tells us that even if we increased the withholding amount, we would still be skewing the benefits to the lower earners.

Each year the Social Security trustees say there are only two solutions: raise the payroll tax rate and/ or reduce the benefit check amounts. These Comfort is our Specialty. Trust is our Promise. two gentlemen say that Experienced Hospice & Palliative Care: · Physicians, Nurses & Aides increasing the payroll · Social Workers Bryan: 979-821-2266 tax rate by just 2 to 3 · Volunteers Brenham: 979-277-9525 · Bereavement Counselors percent will get our La Grange: 979-968-6913 · Chaplains Social Security paid up Inpatient Facility: 979-821-5030 for the century. “Moving www.hospicebrazosvalley.org the normal retirement Your t age a few years out hospice of choice almost completely since 1989 resolves the shortfall issue.”

There is a lot of understanding in your financial and paranoia out there about a bankrupt retirement planning.

Social Security system. Understanding Contact Tracy B. Stewart, CPA, how the system really works helps PFS, CFF, CDFA, CFP® at www. clear up this fear. CPAs say to use this TexasDivorceCPA.com.

The Most Important Thing in any Relationship

TIRED OF

CONSTANT

DENTAL PROBLEMS? Implant retained restorations can be the answer.

Dr. Reece’s expertise and in-house team can give you the healthy, natural smile that will let you stop worrying and start smiling again. Get the look, the feel, and the function of real teeth that you wear 24/7. Learn more with w a no obligation free consultation.

after

before

Dr. Michael Reece, DDS

Robert Herring, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology

VOTED Texas Monthly • Super Dentist • 2004 – 2014 WINNER • H-Texas Magazine Houston’s Top Dentist Award • 2014 WINNER • The Eagle Readers’ Choice Award Best Dentist • 2006 – 2014

3091 University Drive East, #410 Bryan, TX 77802 www.listenhearaudiology.com

LVI Master Dentist & Chief Clinical Instructor INVENTOR • New You Dentures™

drreece.com • videos, information, patient stories 979.846.6515 • Bryan, TX T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

50PLUS

June 2, 2015 | 5

Getting in

Swimming, scuba classes avail

By HOLLI L. KOSTER Special to The Eagle

Swimming is the fourth most popular sports activity in the United States – and with good reason. With just two and a half hours per week of swimming or water-based aerobics, seniors can substantially decrease their risk for chronic diseases, experts say.

“The biggest thing that water-based exercise allows for is non-weight bearing exercise,” said Brian J. Goerig, a physician in family and sports medicine at College Station MedPlus. “This means seniors are not likely to suffer from any pounding on

the joints, since you have the water there as a support mechanism.”

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, water-based exercise is particularly beneficial for people with arthritis because it improves use of affected joints without worsening symptoms. People with rheumatoid arthritis have more health improvements after participating in hydrotherapy than with other activities.

Goerig said the resistance against water is also beneficial for strength and muscle building, as well as for bone protection, stimulating bone growth and helping to prevent osteoporosis.

Aerobic exercise Swimming is one of the best exercises seniors – in need of an option for regular exercise – can do, Goerig said.

“Light walking is good, but if patients have access to a pool, swimming is a wonderful way to stay active and fit without experiencing the stress of joint issues they might experience

otherwise if they were out pounding the p According to the National Swimming P regular aerobic exercise such as swimmin risk of coronary heart disease, it also low preventing fatty build-ups in the artery.

Strength training In addition to aerobic activity, Goerig seniors do some type of resistance trainin ideally, and using water as a resistance.

“Weights in and of themselves can be Goerig said. “Being in a pool is a safe way build muscles and strengthen bones.”

Seniors can do exercises focusing on t upper body, as well as target individual m can promote overall health, fitness and ge said.

According to the NSPF, water is appro denser than air, meaning swimmers are p to use when they move in water. Each arm functions as a form of resistanc

Getting started The cities of College Station variety of swimming and other seniors can use to advance their exercise.

For $40 Bryan residents can at noon during any one of five s Bryan Aquatic Center at 3100 O Bryan. Classes run from June 1 information, visit www.bryantx 5222.

The city also offers water aer through Friday for a $3 daily fee Fitness class that meets Tuesda four weeks in sessions from Jun Bryan Aquatic Center.

The Water Fit class focuses o and toning of the body by using water and a variety of challengi An individual class is $10 for a r sessions are $70. Classes are hel from June 2 to Aug. 27 at the Br The city of College Station o swim lessons at 8 a.m. Tuesdays over five sessions running from Adamson Lagoon located at 190 Station.

Classes cost $45 for residents

6 | June 2, 2015

50PLUS

T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

n shape for summer

lable in Bryan-College Station

Popular sports for seniors

pavement.”

Pool foundation, ng not only reduces the wers inflammation by

Metro Creative Connection

Age doesn’t have to stop older men and women from enjoying their favorite sports. In fact, remaining active can improve physical and mental health.

If a doctor has confirmed that it is OK to participate in sports, these activities can help men and women 50 and older enjoy friendly competition and physical activity.

said he recommends ng twice per week,

difficult to manage,” y to essentially help

the lower body or the muscles. Water aerobics eneral tone, Goerig

oximately 12 times putting every muscle m stroke and leg kick ce training. information, visit cstx.gov or call 979-764-3540.

and Bryan offer a exercise programs r swimming skills or

take adult swim classes sessions, held at the Oak Ridge Drive in 1 to Aug. 14. For more x.gov or call 979-209-

robics 9 a.m. Monday e, as well as an Aquatic ays and Thursdays for ne 2 to Aug. 27 at the

on aerobic conditioning g the resistance of ing aquatic exercises. resident, and full ld 5:30 p.m. in sessions ryan Aquatic Center. offers adult beginner s through Fridays m June 2 to Aug. 14 at 00 Anderson in College

s. For more

Scuba diving This summer the city of Bryan is partnering with Aggieland Scuba to offer PADI Open Water Diver Scuba courses, which will be held in various locations with the pool diving portions of the class at the Bryan Aquatic Center and classroom presentations and exams at Aggieland Scuba, located at 2151 Harvey Mitchell Parkway South #108 in College Station.

Participants will learn to use basic scuba gear, including a dive computer and standard accessories.

Jackie Maynard, an owner of Aggieland Scuba, said scuba diving can be a major calorie burner, but for some who may have scuba diving on their bucket lists, getting back into shape may be the first step.

Class participants over the age of 45 must have approval from a physician to participate in the class – and all participants must be able to complete a 200-meter swim and a 10-minute float. Maynard said the swimming and floating exercises are untimed.

Maynard said the class will begin with an academic section to teach participants scuba diving skills, which they will then practice in a swimming pool or some other controlled environment.

In the third phase of the class, students will go out to a body of open water to demonstrate their mastery of the skills.

For more information, visit aggielandscuba.com or call 979703-7949.

T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

Fishing Fishing is more than just a leisurely day at the lake. Casting and reeling in your catch provides a good workout for the arms, legs and core muscles of the body.

If you fish on the water, rowing out to your lucky spot provides additional cardiovascular exercise.

Golf Golf is enjoyed by people of all ages. Requiring a combination of strategy and skill, golf also pays several physical dividends. Play at your own pace, taking your time walking from hole to hole so you can enjoy the sunshine and soak in the beauty of the course.

Swimming A few laps around a pool works your whole body. Swimming is

50PLUS

attractive to seniors because it works the muscles and provides a cardiovascular jolt without putting any strain on the joints.

Cycling Many seniors are avid cyclists.

You can ride a bicycle in competition or for pleasure. You can even vary your route depending on how physically intense you want the ride to be.

Seniors need not abandon their love of sport just because Father Time is catching up with them. Many sports can be enjoyed by athletes of all ages.

June 2, 2015 | 7

Aging research is entering golden age The March 2015 issue of The Scientist magazine has a theme of “The Toll of Time.”

The focus is not on the diseases that accompany aging but on basic biological processes on the life span of cells and how time degrades molecular and cellular function.

The large numbers of Baby Boomers has stimulated interest in aging research.

In 25 years one in five people in the U.S. will be over 65. Federal dr. BILL KLeMM governmentTHe MeMory MeDic sponsored research on aging is the official mission of the National Institute on Aging. In addition to multiple foundations for specific age-related diseases, basic aging research is the main mission of several foundations (such as the American Federation

We Are Now At Our New Clinic Location 3608 E 29th St, Ste 113 • Bryan

FREE

90-Day Trial on all digital hearing devices

for Aging Research, Glenn, Ellison, MacArthur, McKnight Brain Research, Methuselah, SENS Research).

Aging-dedicated organizations Making life less complicated include the American for families and their loved ones Geriatrics Society, American 979.204.7273 Society on Aging, and www.rahcentex.com the National Your choice for Senior Home Care!

Council on Aging. Multiple universities have research centers dedicated to dividing after about 50 divisions. aging research.

A key discovery about cellular aging reported in 1961 revealed See Memory Medic that normal cells in culture stop page 10

Senior Circle is out to expand your horizons

Ronny Baker B.S.,A.C.A.

3608 E 29th St, Suite 113 • Bryan 979.776.5875 • rdabaker@yahoo.com

2010 Business Performance Award

Come play with someone your own age!

with an exciting calendar of events scheduled around town and around the world. If you’re 50 or better, want to meet new people, learn more about your health, travel and just have fun, then Senior Circle is for you. Dues are just $15 a year.

To join or for more information, call 979-764-5107 or visit CSMedCenter.com.

Become part of the Circle.

8 | June 2, 2015

the

ears Experience Carin Y 0 3 e eeds of the Brazos Valley N g n i r !

Hea

50PLUS

T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

CALENDAR Ongoing

Sit and Fit Chair Exercises - Workout while sitting in a chair. Seniors meet at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, from noon to 1 p.m. For more details, contact 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Line Dancing - Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, holds line dancing for seniors on Tuesdays from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. and on Fridays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. For more information, contact 979-764-6351, 979764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Bluegrass Jam Session – Bluegrass Jam Session is from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Tuesdays at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. All levels. Bring string instruments and a friend. For more details, contact 979764-6351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Friday Bridge - Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, offers bridge for seniors on Fridays from 9 to 11:30 a.m. For more, contact 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Learn how to play 42 dominoes Learn the game of 42 every Wednesday from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov for more information.

42 dominoes - Seniors meet every Thursday to play 42 at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. For more details, contact 979-7646351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Bible study – Bible study is held for seniors at 9:15 a.m. every Thursday at Lincoln Center, 1000 Eleanor St. in College Station. Contact 979-764-3779 or awilliams@cstx.gov for more information.

Dominoes - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays dominoes all day on Tuesdays and Fridays and from noon to closing Wednesdays. Sack lunch for those playing dominoes from 11:30 a.m. to noon Wednesdays. For more details: 979-8226873/ www.brazoscountyseniorcitizens. weebly.com.

Bridge – Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

plays Bridge 12:30 p.m. until closing on Tuesdays; noon to closing on Thursdays; and 12:20 p.m. to closing Fridays. Partner needed Tuesdays and Thursdays. For more details: 979-822-6873 or www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.

Games - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays board games, Scrabble and other card games on Tuesdays.

For more details: 979-822-6873/ www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.

Bible study - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, holds Bible study 9:15 to 9:45 a.m. on Wednesdays. For more information, call 979-822-6873 or visit www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.

Exercise class - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, holds exercise class 9:45 to 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays. For more details, call 979-822-6873 or visit www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.

Bingo - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays Bingo 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays.

For more details: 979-822-6873 or www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.

Canasta - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays Canasta from 11:30 a.m. to closing on Thursdays. For more details, call 979-822-6873 or visit www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.

Dominoes 9 - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays Dominoes 9 all day Fridays.

For more details: 979-822-6873 or www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.

Potluck luncheon - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, has a potluck luncheon 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Fridays. For more, call 979-822-6873 or visit www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.

Learn to play Maj Jongg - Seniors interested in learning the game will meet at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station on Thursdays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. For more information, call 764-6371 or email mrodgers @cstx.gov.

One-on-one computer help - Held 10 a.m. to noon on Saturdays and 6 to 8 p.m. on Mondays, at Larry J. Ringer Library, 1818 Harvey Mitchell Pkwy. S. in College

Station. Contact the Reference Desk to schedule a 30-minute session, (979) 7643416. For more information, visit www. bcslibrary.org.

Free computer class for adults – Held 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Thursdays at Clara B. Mounce Public Library, 201 E. 26th St. in Bryan. No reservations needed.

For more information, call (979) 209-5600 or visit www.bcslibrary.org.

Free computer class for adults – Held 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Fridays at Larry J. Ringer Library, 1818 Harvey Mitchell Pkwy. S. in College Station. No reservations needed.

For more information: (979) 764-3416 or www.bcslibrary.org.

June 2

Afternoon Book Club – Held 5:30 to 7 p.m., Larry J. Ringer Library, 1818 Harvey Mitchell Pkwy. S. in College Station. Group will discuss “When Books Went to War”

by Molly Guptill Manning. All adults are welcome, second Tuesday of the month.

For more information, call (979) 764-3416 or visit www.bcslibrary.org.

June 3

Computer Club for seniors: “How to Use Open Office” - The Computer Club is open to all seniors interested in learning more about computers. Held at the Carter’s Creek Facility Training Room, 2200 North Forest Parkway in College Station at 9:30 a.m. No pre-registration needed. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@ cstx.gov.

Summer Opening Party for Adults – Held 6 to 8 p.m. at Larry J. Ringer Library, 1818 Harvey Mitchell Pkwy. S. in College Station. First in a series of free summer programs for adults, Wednesday evenings. No registration required. For more information, call (979) 764-3416 or visit www.bcslibrary.org.

June 4

Stained Glass Art Class - Learn how to create stained glass artwork, windows or wall hangings from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursdays, June 4 to 9, at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Each student must purchase their own project glass, foil and soldering supplies. Cost is $65. Register at rectrac.

50PLUS

cstx.gov or visit the College Station Parks and Recreation Department, 1000 Krenek Tap Road. Call 979-764-3486 for more information.

June 6

Coffee Flavor: a new approach - 10 a.m. at Clara B. Mounce Public Library, 201 E. 26th St. in Bryan. Free program for adults. No reservations needed. For more information, call (979) 209-5600 or visit www.bcslibrary.org.

June 8

Beginning Computer Class - Held from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays, June 8 to 17, at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Start with the basics and progress to creating and saving files, email, editing and printing using Windows 7. Cost is $45. Register at rectrac.cstx.gov or visit the College Station Parks and Recreation Department, 1000 Krenek Tap Road. 979-764-3486 Intermediate Computer Class – Held 10:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays, from June 8 to 17, at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. The next step for those who have the basics and would like to learn more about using Windows 7. Cost is $45. Register at rectrac.cstx.gov or visit the College Station Parks and Recreation Department, 1000 Krenek Tap Road. 979-764-3486 Beginning Line Dance Workshop - Free workshop for seniors who are beginners, held 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. June 8 and 15 at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station.

Learn the steps and terminology. No registration necessary. Call 764-6371 or email mrodgers @cstx.gov for more.

June 9

Free Help for IPad Users - Class size is limited and you must register. Meets from 9 to 10 a.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. To register call 979-764-6351.

Free Help for Tablet Users - Class size is limited and registration needed.

Class meets from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at

See Calendar page 10 June 2, 2015 | 9

Calendar

from page 9 Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. To register call 979-764-6351.

June 10

Cards for Soldiers – Held 6 to 8 p.m. at Larry J. Ringer Library, 1818 Harvey Mitchell Pkwy. S. in College Station. Free program for adults. Registration required; call (979) 764-3416. www.bcslibrary.org Books & Beans Book Club – Held at 6 p.m. at The Village Cafe, 210 W. 26th St. in Bryan. Book club for adults, discussing “The Handmaid’s Tale” by Margaret Atwood. Second Wednesday of the month.

For more information, call (979) 209-5600 or visit www.bcslibrary.org.

June 13

Honey Bees in the Library – Held 10 a.m. at Clara B. Mounce Public Library, 201 E. 26th St. in Bryan. Free program for adults. Call (979) 209-5600 or visit www.

Memory Medic from page 8

An everyday illustration of this limitation is that our skins get thinner as we age because many skin precursor cells have stopped dividing.

In subsequent years, it became clear that aging has multiple causes at the cell level, ranging from DNA damage to chemical miscommunication among cells. The hard truth is, as cell biologist Derrick Rossi of Harvard said, “We are programmed to die.”

The most common animal model for aging research is a nematode, C. elegans. Scientists have discovered that altering certain genes can extend their lifespan considerably. However, even when their life spans have been extended they become frail toward the end of their life span.

Current aging research findings reviewed in the magazine’s special issue include the discovery of mobile genetic elements, called transposons, which wander around inside cell nuclei and insert themselves into damaged places in the genome. DNA does have some repair capability, but it is hard to keep up with the rate of aging damage.

Certain parts of DNA are normally methylated (have a CH3 group attached) and this can restrict reading that part of the genetic code. Such

10 | June 2, 2015

bcslibrary.org for more details.

June 16

Free Seminar: “Ins & Outs of Medicare” - Learn the basics of Medicare with lead benefits counselor, Stacey Urbanczyk.

Program will be held at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, from 10 to 11 a.m. Call 764-6371 or email mrodgers @cstx.gov for more information.

Nutrition Education - Texas A&M AgriLife presents monthly cooking demos with new recipes and food choices for healthy living. Seniors are invited and the program is from 10 to 11 a.m. at Lincoln Center, 1000 Eleanor St. in College Station. For more information, contact Annie Williams at 979-764-3779.

June 17

Exploring History Luncheon: “Texas World Speedway” - The College Station Historic Preservation Committee and the College Station Parks and Recreation Department present monthly lectures on the history of the community. Held at genes are said to be repressed, that is, not expressed. With aging, the location of these methylated sites changes.

Some sections of DNA become more methylated, others less. Since methylation is controlled by external influences, called epigenetic, it is assumed that age-related methylated changes reflect the lifetime of exposure to environmental hazards such as chemicals, radiation, allergies and infections.

A hot area of research involves telomeres, which are DNA repeats that form some kind of protective cap at the ends of chromosomes. Each time a cell divides, the telomeres get shorter. This affects gene expression, because as chromosomes fold in the nucleus the telomeres contact faraway genes and can alter gene expression.

As telomeres shorten with age, they attach to different genes, producing different kinds of gene expression that likely have deteriorating effects. When telomeres get too short, cell division stops.

Another hot area of research involves age-related changes in chemical communication among cells.

One interesting study showed that blood from young mice could restore some of the heart, brain and skeletal muscle function of aged mice.

Research also indicates that moderate caloric restriction can

Aldersgate Church, 2201 Earl Rudder Fwy S. RSVP is necessary for lunch by the Friday before. Cost is $5. Lunch served at 11:30 a.m. Speaker at noon. Reserve at 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

PG-13 superhero movie – Held 6 to 8 p.m. at Larry J. Ringer Library, 1818 Harvey Mitchell Pkwy. S. in College Station. Free program for adults. Call for movie title. For more details, call (979) 764-3416 or visit www.bcslibrary.org.

June 18

Library Reading Group - Meets 6:45 p.m., book discussion 7 to 8 p.m. At Larry J. Ringer Library, 1818 Harvey Mitchell Pkwy. S. in College Station. Discussing “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” by Mark Twain. All adults welcome. Contact Peggy at (979) 209-5600 or the library at (979) 764-3416. www.bcslibrary.org

June 24

Ice Cream Social with College Station Fire Department - Get an ice cream sundae and learn safety tips from the College Station Fire Department from 2

to 3 p.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station.

Free. Ages 55 and over. Contact 764-6371 or mrodgers @cstx.gov for more details.

Brazos Valley Jewelry Artists Guild – Held 6 to 8 p.m. at Larry J. Ringer Library, 1818 Harvey Mitchell Pkwy. S. in College Station. Free program for adults. Learn to make earrings. RSVP at 979-764-3416.

June 26

BINGO & Birthday Celebration Seniors are invited the last Friday of each month to celebrate birthdays for that month with cake and bingo, at 1 p.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station.

June 30

“Feelings of Anxiety & Depression” presented by St. Joseph, Navasota Seniors are invited to learn more about Feelings of Anxiety and Depression from 10 to 11 a.m. at Lincoln Center, 1000 Eleanor St. in College Station. For more information, contact 979-764-3779.

Memory Is the Canary in Your Brain’s prolong life. Restricting caloric intake Coal Mine,” available in inexpensive in rats reportedly increases their e-book format at www.smashwords. life span by 50 percent, and similar com/books/view/496252. See also his effects have been reported in other recent books, “Memory Power 101” species. These effects seem to be due (Skyhorse) and “Mental Biology. The to improved metabolism of sugar and New Science of How the Brain and insulin function.

Mind Relate” (Prometheus).”

What we all want to know is how much of this research will produce discoveries IN-HOME SENIOR CARE SERVICES fast enough in time to ® help us age well. Living longer has a physiological cost, and research on increasing life span needs to be accompanied by Interactive Caregiving® is the unique way our Comfort Keepers® research aimed at helping deliver care to our clients. It centers on four interrelated aspects us to age well. In the – engagement of the mind, an active body, proper nutrition, and meanwhile, what we can all do to increase our life safety. A plan of Care which addresses these aspects, together, span and health as we age will enhance quality of life and ultimately, independence. is to control our eating habits, exercise and SERVICES learn to cope better with Companion Care • Personal Care emotional stress.

Light Housekeeping Sources: In-Home Safety Solutions 1. U. S. Dept. Health and Human Services, National Institute on Aging. www.nia.nih.gov 2. The Scientist. www. the-scientist.com “Memory Medic’s latest book is for seniors: 244 Southwest Parkway East • College Station, TX 77840 “Improve Your Memory for a Healthy Brain. w w w. s e n i o r c a r e c o l l e g e s t a t i o n . c o m

50PLUS

Interactive Caregiving Makes Every Moment Matter

(979) 764-3076

T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

A SIGN OF HEART PROBLEMS?

CENTRAL TEXAS HEART CENTER

THE TRUTH ABOUT VARICOSE VEINS AND CHRONIC VENOUS INSUFFICIENCY S having her third child- varicose veins weaving down her right leg, starting from the back of her right thigh to just above her rassed. While most of us worry about how they look, we rarely

consider varicose veins to be a potentially are more than the unsightly consequences of age or of vascular problems.

At least half of all Americans over the age of 50 and twoand the vascular system. Early

KNOWS ABOUT VARICOSE VEINS AND CHRONIC VENOUS INSUFFICIENCY

1

these diseases can provide patients better outcomes. Be aware and share this knowledge.

3

If you are noticing them

BE AWARE & SHARE:

icose veins don’t directly translate into a genuine vascular not even considered a potential symptom of vascular weakening, even by medical professionals.

Both Peripheral Artery Disease

4

(CVI). It is a progressive disease that can be debilitating and even cause chronic infections and

procedure with the ClosureFast Radiofrequency Catheter. A into a diseased vein, which is so it doesn’t require a hospital

same. Sometimes varicose veins just happen. Only a physician can share the cause- and whether CVI is part of the problem.

Some common symptoms of CVI : varicose veins, restless legs, aching, cramping, burning or itching of the skin on the legs, leg ulcers, or open sores.

THEY ARE MORE THAN COSMETIC.

increase of varicose veins, visit a vascular specialist.

2

VARICOSE VEINS ARE NOT CVI.

from varicose veins. For some, not seeking treatment can progress into a more serious form of vein (venous) disease called

DISCOVER & DO SOMETHING.

medical solution is minimally invasive. It is a non-surgical, outpatient procedure that is usually covered by insurance.

in an hour and the patient can resume normal activity with-

5

PURSUE PREVENTION.

Avoiding varicose veins and the potential of CVI is the best solution. Basic lifestyle changes- being physically active and not being overweight are a start. Avoid prolonged standing or sitting, and tight clothing around the waist, thighs, and legs also helps.

skin ulcerations. CVI occurs when stresses on the venous system- even prolonged standingweaken and stretch vein strucblood pools in the legs and the veins begin to bulge and rise to the skin’s surface.

BOTTOM LINE, Varicose Veins and Chronic Venous one men, women, young, and old. In fact, more than 30 million Americans suffer from Varicose Veins and ciency. Only 1.9 million seek treatment annually.Be aware, be proactive, and seek quality care from quality medical professionals.

Take the next step and schedule a consultation with a Brazos Vein Physician, or sign up for a 979.776.9255(WALK) WWW.BRAZOSVEIN.COM

Free VEIN

CENTRAL TEXAS HEART CENTER

SCREENING! leg pain • swelling • cramping restless legs • spider & varicose veins

Call 979.776.WALK to schedule yours today!

The cause of these symptoms CAN be treated.

2700 East 29th, Suite 235 Bryan, TX 77802

WWW.BRAZOSVEIN.COM

T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

50PLUS

J u n e 2 , 2 0 1 5 | 11

S T.

J O S E P H

O R T H O P E D I C S

’S FOR US, IT’S

PERSONAL NAL FOR YOU, IT’S QUALITY ITY OF LIFE

My greatest reward as an orthopedic surgeon?

Relieve pain and return my patient to the he activities that bring them happiness.

JUSTIN BRAZEAL, MD

Dr. Brazeal feels the highest compliment a patient can pay him is to say they were treated like family. As part of St. Joseph Orthopedics, he’s committed to a personal approach to treatment – backed by experience and anchored in superior outcomes.

St. Joseph Orthopedics offers patients a conservative approach based on their unique needs. We never rush to surgery. And we make individualized patient care our first priority. From major joint replacements and joint revisions to sports medicine and general orthopedics, St. Joseph Orthopedics is focused on getting you back to your life and the things you love.

To make an appointment,

call 979.731.8888 or go online to st-joseph.org/ortho for your free consultation.

ST. JOSEPH ORTHOPAEDIC ASSOCIATES 2803 Earl Rudder Fwy. Suite 103 College Station, TX 77845 979.731.8888 From major joint replacements and joint revisions to sports medicine and general orthopedics, we get you back to the activities you love.

Joseph J. Iero, MD | Anthony Zissimos, MD | Mark Riley, MD | Barry Veazey, MD

st-joseph.org 12 | June 2, 2015

50PLUS

T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E