50 Plus by The Eagle Advertising Department

A guide to good living in the Brazos Valley

Inside...

Care taking

Author Jane Gross reminds those caring for elderly to care for selves

Pg. 16

Richard simmons

What he says about exercise and nutrition after age 50 Pg. 9

July 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ Vol. 5, Issue 3 â&#x20AC;˘ A monthly publication of the Bryan-College Station Eagle

Back to school More seniors nationwide going to college PAGE PA GE 10

Is doctor advice needed for diets, exercise routines? PAGE PA GE 6

50plus July 2012 The Eagle • theeagle.com

Yoga helps with focus, relaxation Last month’s column discussed the high-incidence of falling down and the resulting need for medical treatment. I mentioned dr. BiLL KLeMM then some The memory meDic preventive enti entive measures the elderly elder can take, with emphasis on vitamin D. I also mentioned the value of exercise and that yoga can build muscle strength and balance. After just a six-week’s course in yoga, I can’t claim to be an expert, but I know enough to suggest it might be a good idea for seniors. Yoga does two things, one which everybody knows: it is a form of meditation that relieves stress. I have ha written about the bad effects ef of chronic stress on memory and brain function, so you can see why I would recommend anything that relieves stress. I don’t go in for the mumbo-jumbo chanting that goes with some forms of yoga, but yoga does emphasize relaxation of muscles. You can’t relax muscle tone without relaxing your mind. And that’s a good thing. Part of the meditation drill is the requirement to focus. Faltering attention in seniors is something else I have ha written about. You may recall my discussion that the major cause of memory problems in seniors is deteriorating ability to pay attention. Yoga

Bradway: Tennis elbow

Financial Literacy: Retirement beneﬁts

Chef Diane: Zucchini salad recipe

Health: Richard Simmons

Cover: Seniors in college

Calendar

18 50plus is a monthly publication of Bryan-College Station Communications Inc. 1729 Briarcrest Drive Bryan, Texas

PUBLisHeR Jim Wilson

sPeCiaL PRoJeCT PR s ediToR Shauna Lewis shauna.lewis@theeagle.com

disPL adVeR disPLay adVeRTisinG VeRTisinG manaGeR mana Joanne R. Patranella joanne.patranella@theeagle.com

sP sPeCiaL PRoJeCTs/maRKeTinG PRoJeCT oJeCTs/maRKeTinG CooRdinaTo oRdina R oRdinaTo Dawn Goodall dawn.goodall@theeagle.com

requires one to concentrate, especially on very slow breathing — six counts inhale, eight counts exhale. When you train the mind to focus on breathing, you are teaching it to be attentive tenti and tentive re reject distracting thought.

See Memory Medic pa 4 page

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I love playing pla tennis and it is great gr exercise er ercise for me; however, I seem to develop tennis elbow every year. ar Is ar. ther anything I can do to preve there pr nt this and if not what is the most effecti eff ve tr treatment?

addition, try to avoid topspin shots, especially when first returning to play. Topspin causes a great deal of stress on the extensor muscle and tendon. You may want to start the season off of with a counterfor counterf ce brace, which reduces the stress forces of the extensor tendon on the elbow. Exercises can also help, both befor bef e tennis season begins and while playing. These include full wrist flexion, full wrist extension, full wrist supination (which is turning the wrist palm up) and pronation (which is turning the palm down). For a video demonstration of how to perf m these exercises to achieve perfor the maximum benefit, please visit BVph BV ysicaltherapy.com and Facebook.com/sbpmc . Initially, strengthening exercises should be perfor perf med using a 2- to 3-pound dumbbell. Perfor rf m all rfor exercises for 50 repetitions. Do the acti activity for three days and then progress to a 5-pound weight. In the

future, be sure to do your stretching and strengthening exercises two weeks befor bef e beginning to play tennis, and when you begin to play, try to hit the ball at 50 percent effo ef rt for the first few days, then gradually intensify the stroke over a fivesession period. In addition to using a counterfor counterf ce brace at the elbow, ice your elbow down for a minimum of 10 minutes following your workout, as well as your tennis playing activities acti . Ice should be applied 6 inches below the elbow (on the outer part of your forearm) and 6 inches above the elbow for 10 minutes every time you play. If you begin having ha tennis elbow symptoms, contact your physician or physical therapist as soon as possible. Tennis elbow is a very common problem for the tennis player. By ear season preparation, you can early prevent the condition from occurring – and if it does occur, occur eliminate it early ear by receiving cei ceiving ear season early physical therapy to the elbow.

July 2012

Tennis elbow or Lateral Epicondylitis is an inflammation of the wrist extensor muscle, which is hea y invo heavil in lved in grasping acti activities . It is a very common injury for tennis players, hence the name. The Leon Bradway dw dway onset of the Physical TheraP heraPy injury is most noticeable when you first start playing tennis again and/or if you increase the time and frequency of play. This is due in part to range of motion issues and lack

of adequate strength in the extensor musculature. In addition, if you fail to stretch and warm up gently, you can stress the muscles. The backhand stroke causes the greatest stress for tennis players. By developing an improved backhand stroke, the risk of tennis elbow decreases. The technique of hitting a backhand should include positioning the shoulder such that the elbow is flexed approximately 70 degrees at impact. The backhand stroke should be made by attempting to hit the ball directly in the center of the racket and keeping the elbow and wrist immobile when contact is made with the ball. Your grip should be relaxed at impact, and you should avoid gripping the racket tightly through the stroke phase of ball contact. By enlarging the grip handle, you can maintain adequate grip with less force. If you purchase a lighter racket, it will cause less stress on the elbow. In

50plus

How to prevent or treat tennis elbow

What to know about Social Security retirement benefits

Not just a paragraph in the decree When it comes to a di rce, it is crucial to use divo a QDRO (qualified domestic relations order) to divide di the qualified plan accounts. Qualfied plan accounts include defined contribution plans such as 401(k), 403(b) plans and defined benefit plans (pension plans). Plans that are not divided di via QDRO include, but are not limited to IRAs, deferred compensation plans, executive ecuti bonus plans, ecutive group carve-out plans, stock options and restricted stock. Without a QDRO, the amounts that are split between divo di rcing spouses, as well as subsequent withdrawals, are subject to federal taxes and early ear -

withdrawal penalties. There are many details to consider in every QDRO, but the first step is agreeing on the split --either a percentage division di or a dollar amount division di of the account. Percentage versus dollar amounts I’ve seen instances of both methods, but I am wary when a couple wishes to Tracy STewar ewarT ewar arT di divide an Financial liTeracy iTer account in terms of dollars instead of percentages. For example, if the total account value is $800,000, and they wish to split the account 50-50, the decree might state that one spouse will be awarded $400,000. The couple assumes that $400,000 will still be half the account value at the date of divo di rce, so the decree is silent on the amount of retirement funds the other spouse will be awarded. The risk here is that if the in stments lose value, inve one spouse will be awarded $400,000 while the other spouse will be awarded less than $400,000. I am aware of a case where spouse A had to pay additional funds to spouse B, because they had agreed to a dollar amount di division with a specific dollar

amount to spouse B. Between the time the decree was filed with the court and the day the account was actually divided, di

the retirement account had lost so much value that the funds remaining in the retirement account were

See Stewart pa 13 page

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Splitting up the retirement accounts in a divo di rce is not as simple as many couples think. Here are some mistakes to avoid. Most of my divo di rce clients are in their 50s or older often described in the older, media as “gray divo di rces.” These couples’ retirement accounts are their largest assets. Unfor Unf tunately, di rcing individuals divo indi often don’t understand the rules of di dividing retirement assets in di rce nor how complex the divo di division process can be. What they don’t know will hurt them.

Listen Hear Audiology Center Robert Herring, Au.D.

50plus

Memory Medic from page pa 2

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July 2012

Once the brain develops a habit of attentive tenti ness, it can be applied to all tentive aspects of living, li including learning and memory. You don’t have ha to tie yourself up like a pretzel, as you may have ha seen in many pictures of people in yoga exercises. In fact, for seniors, I would say that these extreme postures can actually be harmful, especially if you ha artificial knees or hips. But in have the yoga exercises we did in my class, the instructor was wise enough to emphasize that we should do what

we can and not force ourselves into extreme positions. One thing I had not appreciated about yoga is that it is great exercise. Gi n what I said earlier Give ear about relaxation, you may question how you can relax and exercise at the same time. Well you can. Yoga teaches you to eliminate stressful thought via the relaxation poses, but even in the ones that are strenuous, you are still concentrating on slow breathing at the expense of distracting and stressful thought. The exercises are isometric. Remember “Char “Charles Atlas?” His muscle-building for “90-pound weaklings” were yogalike isometric exercises. Trust me; if

my arms held out to the side like a wire-walker, er and even then, only for a er, few seconds. Most beneficial of all, after only 10 weeks I actually feel better (though still sore). It is hard to explain, but somehow I am less frustrated by things I can’t change and more at peace. Not only is my back stronger and my balance better, better but I can relax at any moment just by the slowbreathing drill.

you do the right yoga postures and exert yourself, you will be sore the next day. After six weeks, I still get sore. (Hot tubs are great). Everybody knows that seniors lose a lot of muscle as they get older. That is why they look — and are — frail. That is why they tend to have ha back problems and fall down so much, breaking hip joints. Yoga exercises are especially good for building back strength. There are also a couple of yoga postures that also strengthen balance. Ever see the picture of people standing on one foot, with hands raised together over the head? I can do that now, for up to a minute! I am 78 this month. Can you do that? At first, I could not do it at all without

Dr Bill Klemm is a Profes Dr. of sor ofes of Neuroscience at Texas A&M Universi er ty. ersi ty Visit his blog og at ThankYo nk uBrain.com for more nkYo memory tips. ti

Seven simple steps to senior bathroom safety (ARA) - One in three seniors over the age of 65 will experience at least one fall annually, according to the Centers for Disease Control. The bathroom is one of the most dangerous rooms in the home for the elder . Slick floors, small spaces, elderly sharp edges and few things to grasp make mobility difficult dif and increase chances for dangerous falls. Unable to complete everyday tasks with the same mobility they once had, many senior homeowners are left with unsafe measures to prevent falling in the bathroom. These may include insufficientl insuf y secured towel racks that could fall when gripped for support, shower chairs that are not slip resistant and sliding shower doors that could move unexpectedly when entering and exiting the tub. “W want seniors to live “We li safely and comfor comf tably in every part of their homes. It’s important that senior homeowners are aware of the challenges independent living li can present and take the appropriate precautions,” says Larry Rothman, Roto-Rooter’s director of plumbing services. Roto-Rooter, ooter America’s largest ooter, provider of plumbing and draincleaning services, is offering of tips on what to install in the bathroom to keep it safe for loved ones so they can maintain an independent lifestyle with easier mobility.

• Equip showers and surrounding walls with sturdy grab bars anchored to wall studs so they can support the full weight of an adult. Some portable safety handles use super strong suction cups and are easy to apply and remove. • Consider installing nonskid tape or mats on the floor of a shower or bathtub. • A shower chair is also a safe solution that can be easily placed where balance is a challenge. • Flexible handheld shower wands with an on/off on/of button might be easier to use than a traditional shower head. These are especially useful in combination with shower chairs. • Toilets can be replaced with ADAapproved raised-height models to lessen the chance of a harsh fall. Alternative ti ly, tive ly raisedheight seats can be installed on existing toilets. • Check temperature settings on water heaters, as water hotter than 120 F can scald skin.

Special no-scald faucets or a noscald regulator can be installed as a secondary layer of protection. •Some faucet handles are difficult dif for arthritic hands to grip and turn. These should be replaced with models that are easier for seniors to use. A study by the Home Safety Council found that falls are the leading cause of home injury-related deaths among older adults. Making simple home installations can make day-to-day living li for seniors easier, easier

reduce their risk of falling and give gi peace of mind to those close to them. Most of the devices Roto-Rooter suggests can be installed by most anyone and are recommended for overall safety and optimal mobility for seniors. Visit www.RotoRooter.com/ plumbing-basics to view an inf mational video on installing infor bathroom safety measures and other doctor-recommended advice ad for independent senior living. li

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Zucchini Carpaccio Salad

Diane Lestina, a certified pe personal chef, holds cooking in classes andd cooks ing for residents nt in the Brya nts Br n-College St ion area. To learn more, Stat re visit re, www hefd www.c he iane.com.

Celebrate.

This Zucchini Carpaccio Salad is a way wa to use up zucchini from a summer garden, and goes well with anything, according to Chef Diane Lestina.

Something special is happening in the Ci Circ Circle. rcle. le. If you’re 50 or better and want to meet ne meet new w peo p people, eople, ple, lear learn n aabo about bout yo your ur health, tr travel el and ha have fun, then SSenior ior Circle is ffor you. For jjust $15 a year, members enjoy social events, health seminars, prescription discounts, and more! To find out more, just come to our 5th anniversary eevent.

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2 medium zucchini, washed but unpeeled

1 large lemon ¼ cup extra virgin olive oli oil 2 tablespoons chives, snipped with scissors 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or basil, dill, mint) ¼ cup crumbled goat cheese (or feta, or shredded parmesan) Cherry tomatoes for garnish Sea salt and freshly ground pepper Slice the zucchini as thin as you can – around 1/16 to 1/8 inch thick. (If you have ha a mandolin, it’s quick). Arrange on a large platter in one layer and season with salt and pepper. Zest your lemon and place it in a 1- or 2-cup liquid measuring cup. Juice the lemon and add to the container with the zest; add the olive oli oil and whisk to combine. Pour this mixture over the zucchini and let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Just befor bef e serving, sprinkle with chopped herbs, cheese and cherry tomatoes for garnish. Serves 2-3.

July 2012

If you are looking for something new to do with zucchini this summer, summer here is a great recipe. It’s light and refreshing and will go well with whatever else you are serving for dinner. Carpaccio traditionally refers to meat or fish served raw and sliced thinly, and some restaurants ha taken to have naming any dish of thinly sliced food carpaccio. For this salad, diane LeSTina cook iT simPle it is important www.cheFDiane.com to use a good quality extravirgin olive oli oil. If you go to the Brazos Valley Farmers Marke Mar t in Bryan, you might be able to purchase a bottle of Amici from Carolyn Adair. It’s wonderful. You can also have ha fun substituting dif ent herbs and cheeses in this differ recipe.

50plus

Use your summer zucchini with this salad

Join the College Station Medical Center Senior Circle Chapter for its

5th Anniversary Celebration Monday, July 9 Pebble Creek Country Club

Doors open at 11:30 a.m. Lunch at Noon Speaker presentation at 1 p.m. Dale Smith Thomas, Founder/CEO of Winners By Choice, Inc., will speak on Age-Defying Attitude. RSVP: 764-5107 $10 tickets purchased in advance. You need not be a member to attend.

50plus The Eagle • theeagle.com

July 2012

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Are You Interested in Getting Involved in Research at Texas A&M University? The Texas A&M University Department of Psychology is looking for volunteers to participate in research studies on cognition. Compensation and parking will be provided. Who:

We are looking for volunteers who are over the age of 65.

What:

Studies typically take between 1 and 2 hours. You will be asked to take various memory and attention tests.

adult wants to begin a vigorous intensity program and has risk factors – like a family history of heart disease, cigarette smoking, obesity, hypertension or prediabetes – then they are at moderate risk for cardiovascular disease and should have a medical exam first. As such, anyone with a full-on cardiac, pulmonary or metabolic disease, asthma, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, thyroid disorder, renal or liver disease should also see a doctor. Even if you don’t fall into one of the above categories, Bushman says it’s never a bad idea to speak with a doctor anyway. “I personally feel keeping open lines of communication with one’s health care provider is a good thing,” she says.

Milner also advises a mindful approach to the mixture of certain medications, as that can play a role in exercise performance. “As we get older, so many of us are taking more than one medication, and the interaction between the two is having an effect,” he says. He advises being open with doctors so they’re aware of what’s going on and can prescribe according to a specific lifestyle. For any older individual looking to start a new exercise program, Milner suggests taking it slow and starting with a solid comfort level. “A lot of people throw themselves into it,” he says. “They go too hard, too fast. Just start off at a place that feels comfortable, and grow from there.”

Caring ring for the Eyes of Texa xas R.J. Maggs, OD Therapeutic Ther Optometrist

2414 A Texas Avenue enue South College Station, TX 77840

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for people of all ages, especially those middle aged and older. An active lifestyle manages weight and decreases the likelihood of chronic illness, and is also extremely beneficial to cognitive function, according to a 2007 report from the ACSM. Best of all, it’s mostly riskfree. “Eight-five percent of people have at least one chronic health condition by the time they’re 65, but many of those conditions are improved with exercise,” says Milner. According to the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, “the health benefits of physical activity far outweigh the risks.” So when is it important to get a consultation? According to Barbara Bushman, Ph. D., a Department of Kinesiology professor at Missouri State University, the ACSM guidelines suggest older adults do not require an exercise test prior to initiating a moderate physical activity program. But if an older

July 2012

Everyone’s heard it: It’s important to consult with a doctor before trying a new diet or exercise regimen. It’s in the footnotes of every infomercial, magazine article, diet handout or meal plan. It’s the go-to mission statement for any lifestyle change. But how important is it, really? That depends, according to professionals. “Unless you have some type of pre-existing health condition that requires you to check in with your physician, you really don’t need to,” says Colin Milner, CEO of the International Council on Active Aging. But it isn’t just Milner’s opinion that counts. The American College of Sports Medicine released an official statement last year declaring that consultations with a medical professional when beginning a new exercise regimen are “useful when clinically indicated, but are not recommended with universal screening.” Experts can almost unanimously agree that exercise is important

Percentage decline in number of U.S. adults with high total cholesterol.

50plus

A heAlthier lifestyle doesn’t AlwAys hAve to be doctorApproved. but some experts sAy: better sAfe thAn sorry.

979.764.0009 764.0009

Jon House, use, OD Therapeutic Ther Optometrist Optometric Glaucoma Specialist

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Where: The Department of Psychology at Texas A&M University.

To hear more details and decide if you are interested please contact: The Aging and Cognition Lab (979) 458-0901

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50plus July 2012 The Eagle • theeagle.com

10 signs that indicate Alzheimer’s Few families are fortunate enough to say they have ha not been impacted by Alzheimer’s disease. A progressive, ssi ssive, degenerative ti disease of the brain, tive Alzheimer’s impairs thinking and memory accounting for 50 to 80 memory, percent of dementia cases according to the Alzheimer’s Association. Though many people’s experiences with Alzheimer’s disease invo in lves an elderly elder relative, ti tive, the disease is not exclusive usi to the elderly usive elder . Up to 5 percent of people with the disease ha early have ear -onset Alzheimer’s, which most often appears when someone is in their 40s and 50s. In 2011, 59-year-old Pat Summitt, the all-time winningest coach in NCAA basketball history and a beloved figure on the campus of the Uni rsity of Tennessee, revealed Unive that she had been diagnosed with ear -onset dementia, Alzheimer’s early type. That announcement opened the eyes of people across the country, country who might otherwise would never ha known that dementia could have strike so early ear or to someone who seemed as healthy as Summitt, who vowed to continue coaching despite the diagnosis. Because it can strike men and women even if they aren’t elderly, elderly ly, it’s important to know these

10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s, courtesy of the Alzheimer’s Association and the Alzheimer Society of Canada. 1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life. Memory loss is one of the most common signs of Alzheimer’s. This is especially so if men and women forget things that happened very recently, which can negative ti ly impact their tive daily live li s. 2. Difficulty Dif planning. Some people might start to exhibit dif difficulty following a plan or working with numbers, be it following a recipe or paying the monthly bills. Concentration is often difficult dif for those exhibiting symptoms of Alzheimer’s. 3. Difficulty Dif completing familiar tasks. Daily tasks such as driving dri to work or remembering the rules of a familiar game will prove difficult dif for people with Alzheimer’s. 4. Disorientation with regards to time and/or place. Near everyone has had Nearly momentary lapses where they forget what time it is or what day it is. But

such lapses are not momentary for people with Alzheimer’s, who might even get lost on their own street and not remember how to get home. 5. Trouble understanding images and spatial relationships. Some people with Alzheimer’s ha difficulty have dif reading, judging distance or determining color or contrast. For example, a person with Alzheimer’s might walk past a mirror and not realize he or she is the person in the mirror. 6. New problems with words in speaking or writing. People with Alzheimer’s might experience trouble holding or joining a conve con rsation. An example is stopping in the middle of a con rsation and having conve ha no idea how to continue. They might also struggle with vocabulary, lary often having lary, ha trouble finding the right word to express what they’re thinking. 7. Misplacing things. People with Alzheimer’s might put things in unusual places and then experience difficulty dif retracing their steps to find those items. This tends to occur more frequently over time, and they often accuse others of stealing

items they simply can’t find. 8. Decreased or poor judgement. Poor judgement, such as not visiting the doctor or mishandling finances, is another warning sign for Alzheimer’s. These poor decisions can extend to personal grooming, which men and women with Alzheimer’s might neglect. 9. Withdrawal from society. Men and women with Alzheimer’s might start to withdraw from society, society removing themselves from social acti activities , projects at work or hobbies. Avid sports fans might no longer be able to follow their favo fa rite team, while social butterflies might grow reclusive usi . usive 10. Changes in mood and personality. People with Alzheimer’s might experience mood swings for no apparent reason and can become anxious, confused, depressed, fearful, or suspicious. Acting out of character might also be indicative ti of tive Alzheimer’s. More infor inf mation about Alzheimer’s disease is available at www.alz.org and www.alzheimer.ca.

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50plus

Ask the expert:

richArd simmons Richard Simmons has been inspiring people to lose weight and feel great since the 1970s, when he opened his own exercise studio and created a fitness empire, complete with videos, radio shows and infomer inf cials. At 64, Simmons has kept up his own 100-plus pound weight loss with the help of daily exercise, proper nutrition and a positive positi outlook on life. Here, Simmons speaks up on fitness over 50, and why it doesn’t have ha to mean accepting less than your best.

How have ha you personally pushed past the age barrier to achieve a maintainable physique? I never think about my age. Because I exercise every day, I look younger than the average 64-year-old. I only get one day at a time, and I fill it up. I think being silly and comical keeps you young at heart, too. I hope to have ha that philosophy when I live to be 100.

How does exercise change when you reach 50? As you get older, you have ha to be more careful. You cannot over-exercise. You still need to warm up the body and give it daily toning and cardio. Remember how old your parts are, and remember that you don’t want to wear them out.

Are you in need of Bioidentical (natural)

So in general, is losing weight harder at an older age than a younger one?

What are some exercises that you would recommend for people

Have you noticed: (check all that apply) Decreased sex drive

Work performance issues

Decreased energy levels

Decreased quality of life

Loss of strength

Changes in body composition

Loss of endurance

Increased recovery time

Sexual performance issues

Decreased mental acuity

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How should those 50 and older adjust their diet to keep their weight healthy? Should they eat more or less than younger active people? People over 50 lose weight just like everyone else. A calorie is a calorie. You either store it or burn it. God made six food groups, and you have ha to eat the right portions from all of them.

Q A

Why is being obese in your older years a serious problem? As you grow older, and when you go from being overweight to obese, you lose mobility. That is the really sad part. You go from walking, to walking with a cane, to having ha a scooter or a wheelchair. Obesity robs you of what you used to do. And when you put too much weight on your body, it breaks down, which leads to taking way too much medication.

over 50? Every day you get another day. Open your eyes and get yourself out of bed. Warm up your body, and then plan what body parts you will tone and what kind of cardio workout you will be doing. Will it be walking or swimming or using an elliptical? Or maybe it’s dancing to a fun DVD. At the end of the day, you need to cool your body down and stretch it bef e you go to bed. This is befor what I do. And I’m cute, if I ha to say so myself ! have

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Losing weight is just hard. Whether you’re young or old, a banana split still looks divine. No matter what your age, you will be faced with temptations. And it will never get easy. Even at my age, when I see a billboard with a new sandwich, I drool.

July 2012

Growing older means you might start moving slower and having ha a harder time adjusting to strenuous physical activity. How does a person come to terms with that? You know, I don’t believe this is true. Why? Because I defy nature. At 64, I do not move slower and I exercise every single day for one hour and 15 minutes. You have ha to attack each day that God gives you and not complain and not think negative thoughts. Those kinds of thoughts make you grow older and sadder.

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the option of pursuing traditional degree programs, certifications, online courses and continuing education through Texas A&M, Blinn College and several online programs.

50plus

Bryan couple returned to college later in life to pursue longtime interests. By HOLLI L. ESTRIDGE

worked on differ dif ent degrees after that. He has a bachelor’s in business mar ting and a bachelor’s in marke mathematics with a concentration in computer science from San Jose State Uni rsity. Unive Martin worked at Siemens for 26 years as an engineer, engineer doing hardware and software design related to telephony. “I developed a love of literature over the years,” he said. “Of course, my job as an engineer was 180 degrees away from literature, but I decided to jump in with both feet.” On the heels of a massive massi downsizing at Siemens in 2001, Martin returned to school, and earned a master’s degree in English from Fresno State Unive Uni rsity. He now teaches English part time at Blinn College in Bryan. He said his position at Blinn has come with challenges. Cutbacks have ha left him working part time, but he doesn’t regret the decision to earn his master’s. “If you’re considering college, don’t hesitate,” he said. “It’s rewarding in its own right, and it might give gi you an opportunity to get into some other field – or just the satisfaction tisf tisfaction of knowing you tried.” 50-plus students The number of college students age 50 to 64 increased 17 percent nationwide between fall 2007 and fall 2009, according to the latest data available from the National Center for Education Statistics. Nationally, more than 78 million baby boomers are entering their

Photo by Suzanne Leatham

Ann and Martin Leonard, of Bryan, are ar among seniors who decided to return to college after af years of working to support suppor their children. childr

retirement years and more of them than in past years expect to keep working after they turn 65. Last year about 36 percent of workers said they planned to keep working past age 65, compared with 20 percent in 2001, according to the Employee Benefit Research Institute. As a result, enrollment in colleges across the country could continue to increase. However, er at Texas er, A&M Unive Uni rsity in College Station, enrollment among baby boomers

(tracked as 40 and older at Texas A&M) remained relative ti ly flat over the same tive period, according to data from the uni rsity’s Office unive Of of Institutional Studies and Planning. In spring 2012 the unive uni rsity enrolled 86 undergraduates in that age range, with 332 students in its master’s programs, 499 students in PhD programs and five in professional programs, for a total of 922 students – enrollment numbers similar to those booked five years ago.

Blinn College does not track age demographics for regular admissions, according to Blinn College spokesman Brandon Webb, and does not have ha historical data for workforce program enrollment. He said workforce programs across Blinn’s four campuses (Brenham, Bryan, Sealy and Schulenburg) stood at 256 students who were 50 or older in fall 2011. The figure excludes special training groups for which Blinn provides courses on a contract basis.

Brian Burk, Bur director of Blinn College Workforce Education, said he estimates most of the 256 students were enrolled in the college’s electrical recertification class. Electricians take annual training for license recertification. “Along with that, we also have ha nurse aid classes, med aide updates, pharmacy tech, welding, HVAC HV and more,” said Burk. Bur Locally, students 50 and older have ha

Online programs Uni rsities and colleges Unive throughout the country continue to expand online offerings of , and many target Texas students. Southern New Hampshire Uni rsity, Unive rsity an 80-year-old, not-for not-f profit, regionally accredited unive uni rsity, rsity for example, has Texas-based advisors ad working with about 50 students across the state. “Our online grad enrollment has increased from 6 to 8.2 percent of our overall online population between 2009 and 2012, and our online undergrad population has grown from 3 to 6.4 percent of our overall online population from 2009 to 2012 for those aged 50 and over,” er said Pamme er,” Boutselis, a spokeswoman for the uni rsity. unive She said their advisors ad ha have found that the over-50 population has returned to school for a number of reasons. For some, it’s to finish a degree they started many years befor bef e or to change careers completely or ad nce in their career. adva “Many have ha put children and even grandchildren through school, and now it’s time for them,” said Boutselis. “Sometimes, it’s personal. One older gentleman comes to mind that had retired and started volunteering, teaching math to inmates at a prison in New Hampshire. His experience there led him to want to better understand people and their problems. As a result, he became an online student pursuing a degree in psychology.”

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For many years, Bryan couple Martin and Ann Leonard put off of finishing college to support their five children, but like other seniors, decided to continue their education later on in life. College enrollment by baby boomers, like the Leonards, is on the rise, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Many are turning to college for economic reasons, such as high unemployment, low home values and downsized retirement accounts. Others, like the Leonards, continue college education later in life mostly to pursue their longtime passions. Ann said her age was never a consideration. “Y “You’r e never too old to take ad ntage of education so that you adva can improve your life and help others improve theirs,” Ann said. “If you have ha an opportunity to improve your life and improve yourself, you should take

ad ntage of it.” adva In her younger years, Ann, now 60, studied biomedical science and music at differ dif ent unive uni rsities in Texas, the Uni rsity of Denve Unive Den r, and San Jose State in Califor Calif nia. But she didn’t finish her degree because she was busy raising her children. Ann, whose first passion was music, spent years as a perfor perf mer and priva pri te lesson instructor befor bef e turning to real estate and financial lending to help pay the bills. But she recently enrolled at Sam Houston State Unive Uni rsity to obtain a bachelor’s degree in music therapy. “Music was something that I had always really loved,” Ann said. “I also loved working with people and sharing my knowledge of music.” Martin, a 70-year-old literature buff, ff went to Rice Unive ff, Uni rsity when he was younger and studied English/ humanities and German, but quit during his senior year. He served in the United States Military in Vietnam, and

July 2012

Special to The Eagl Ea e

50plus

Many earning college degrees in their senior years

Photo by Suzanne Leatham

Ann Leonard recently enrolled enr at Sam Houston State University to obtain her bachelor’s degree in music therapy.

Photo by Suzanne Leatham

Blinn College in Bryan

Photo by Suzanne Leatham

Texas A&M University in College Station

50plus

The skinny on living a longer, healthier life packing on pounds isn’t a right of passage for the fifty-plus set, especially considering the myriad of negative health consequences of being overweight later in life.

By Jeff schnaufer

The Eagle • theeagle.com

July 2012

CTW Features atur atures

Many think it’s just natural to put on weight as they age, but some health experts say it may be the worst time in your life to put on weight and get out of shape. Yet unfor unf tunately, more and more seniors are becoming obese. According to Dr. Catherine Loria, nutritional epidemiologist in the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute’s Division Di of Cardiovascular Sciences in Bethesda, Maryland, the rate of obesity among men greater than 60 years old is 37 percent and women greater than 60 is 42 percent. And data from the 2009-2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey reveals that adults age 60 and over were more likely to be obese than younger adults. A myriad of health risks accompany obesity, obesity health experts say. These include hypertension or high blood pressure, high cholesterol and heart disease, cancer, cancer osteoarthritis, and diabetes. For the 50 plus crowd, health experts say obesity can increase these risks even further.

“Probably one of the main considerations there for the 50 plus population is that the conditions have ha had longer to do damage to the body,” says Dr. Vance Blackburn, a physician in Birmingham Alabama who has conducted research for the American Academy of Family Physicians. “Another factor is that people who are overweight tend to ha multiple problems, like high have blood pressure or hypertension and diabetes. As you start adding all of those things together then the health risks significantly increase. Probably one of the main factors is that their body’s metabolism slows down as they age. I often have ha people say they are eating the same things they were eating befor bef e but they are gaining weight. And for those who are obese over 50, they are less likely because of fatigue or joint pain to be active acti . They’re more sedentary. That definitely intensifies problems.”

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Among the trouble areas: Cancer: “In the United States, it has been estimated that overweight and obesity contribute to 14 percent of all cancer deaths in men and 20 percent in women,” says Colleen Doyle, director of nutrition and physical activity acti at the American Cancer Society in Atlanta, Georgia. According to Doyle, overweight and obesity are clearly ear associated early with increased risk for developing many cancers, including cancers of the breast in postmenopausal women, colon and rectum, endometrium, adenocarcinoma of the esophagus, kidney and pancreas. kidney,

Stewart

from page pa 3

What he didn’t know hurt him Husband had save sa d money by doing his own divo di rce without legal ad advice . He had a pension for his retirement. He and Wife No. 1 agreed to split his pension with her getting a $30,000 lump sum. They had gone their separate ways, assuming the retirement account split would be taken care of by virtue of the divo di rce decree. After several years, Wife No. 1 tried to get her lump sum payment from his pension. The pension administrator told her that lump sum distribution to her was not an option and furthermore, since there was no QDRO on file, she had no right to the pension. She began nagging her ex-husband to remedy the situation. When he didn’t, she escalated with a threat to prove that he was still married to her. This made Wife No. 2 very unhappy. I was brought into the mix to straighten out the mess. In retrospect, he regretted his attempt to cut costs during the divo di rce. He ended up spending more to fix the problem than he would have ha if he had sought professional advice ad for the divo di rce. He told me the resulting emotional price was also too high. Avoid buyer’s remorse Most times one member of the

Diabetes: “The risk of diabetes almost exponentially increases with weight gain as we become older,” older says Dr. Jack Dersarkissian, Dersar Regional Lead for Adult Weight Management for

di rcing couple is in a hurry to get divo the deal done. The other half might be still reeling from the realization that they are in a divo di rce. This is called differing dif di rce readiness. divo During the course of the divo di rce, the reeling spouse tries to slow down the process while the other spouse tries to speed up the process. These push-me-pullyou dynamics can result in increased frustration for both spouses. As the di rce progresses, divo spouses can come to a point where they both want to slam through the financial settlement just to stop the emotional pain. It is important to slow down enough that the couple understands all the details of the proposed financial settlement. For pension plans, details include early ear retirement subsidies, post-retirement cost-of-li cost-of-living adjustments, form of alternate payee’s payout (lump sum or monthly check) and pre-retirement survi rship survivo protection for the alternate payee. For defined benefit plans, details include plan loans, dealing with account value gains and losses and an alternate payee’s commencement date and delayed plan contributions.

68 million. The consequence of osteoarthritis is pain and, if the condition worsens, joint replacement. “When you no longer have ha any cartilidge left, as the rate of obesity and OA goes up, the number of people who get joint replacements goes up,” White says.

Osteoarthritis Dr. Patience White, M.D., vice president for public health of the Arthritis Foundation, says one in three people over 65 have ha osteoarthritis, or OA. “If you are obese, she says, “you are going to have ha a 2/3 chance of getting OA.” Put those numbers together and White predicts a “silver tsunami” of people with osteoarthritis, or a breakdown of cartilage in the joints. At this point, 27 million Americans ha OA. But by the year 2030, that have number could jump to as high as

High Blood Pressure or Hypertension “With hypertension, as we gain weight, our blood pressure can go up by 10 to 20 points,” says Dersar Dersarkissian. “If you are 200 pounds and you lose 20 pounds, that can improve diabetes and blood pressure risks and reduce the amount of blood pressure medication your are on.” Fortunately, there is a remedy for obesity for many people, including the 50 plus crowd. While it may not reverse an existing medical condition, the remedy may help prevent the onset of certain conditions. The treatment: lose weight and keep the weight off. of

Rushing through the process at this point can result in buyer’s remorse after the divo di rce. In my collaborative ti law divo tive di rce cases, clients are encouraged to take the time to carefully and fully understand these details. Doing so can have ha a profoundl of ofoundl y favo fa rable effect ef on

their future financial stability. The collaborative ti law divo tive di rce process, while usually faster than traditional litigation, builds in the time and professional advice ad to assist the clients and their attorneys in designing a property division di that fully addresses both spouses’ needs.

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insuf insufficient to fund the amount that was awarded to spouse B. Spouse A was not only left without retirement funds, but also had an obligation to pay spouse B a sum to replace the shortfall tf of funds awarded to spouse tfall B.

Heart Disease: In addition to the risks of high triglycerides and dangerous cholesterol levels, Dr. Robert H. Eckel, past president of the American Heart Association, encourages people who may be obese to be tested for obstructive ucti sleep apnea. “This uctive can lead to a greater risk of heart disease,” Eckel says. “This can be treated. This is an important area that is underestimated.”

the Southern Califor Calif nia Permanente Group. “As we all get older, older we lose our lean muscle mass, so we may stay the same weight, but it is fat. And it’s fat in the visceral area, which is inside the belly. That’s the the most dangerous type of fat. Diabetes in and by itself really cascades into a lot of other diseases, like heart attacks and kidney failure and increase of stroke.”

July 2012

High Triglycerides and Cholesterol: “Obesity definitely increases the

rates of high triglycerides in the blood and that’s a component of the cholesterol levels. It also tends to lower the good cholesterol,” Blackburn says. “Those things are part of the risk factors that can increase heart disease.”

50plus

Trouble areas

50plus July 2012 The Eagle • theeagle.com

Exercise for healthy aging

(ARA) - Sixty-year-old Ester Kurz does a lot of things, but taking prescribed medicine isn’t one of them. While most people her age take a pill for one thing or another, another Kurz, from Baltimore, self-prescribes exercise for healthy aging. On a daily basis Kurz, who will turn 61 in June, goes to the Life Time Fitness in Rockville, Md., to enjoy everything from boot camp to yoga. Her favo fa rite day is Monday, when she goes from kickboxing to indoor cycling class to boot camp. “Each year, ar I seem to up the number and ar, types of routines,” she boasts. Kurz’s attitude is counter to the majority of her peers. Just 30 percent of people between ages 45 and 64 say they engage in regular leisuretime physical activity activity, vity, according to the Centers for Disease Control and

Prevention’s 2010 National Interview Survey. As people get older, older they move even less: 25 percent are active acti between the ages 65 and 74 and only 11 percent of those 85 and older say they are active acti . That’s a problem because studies indicate there’s a correlation between acti activity and a lower death rate in older adults. “Healthy aging is the ability to maintain your mental, physical and cellular health,” says Jason Stella, a personal trainer at Life Time Fitness, The Healthy Way of Life Company. “The process of aging is inevitable, but the choices you make, good or bad, throughout your lifetime dictate the rate at which you will age and the positi or negative positive ti health affects tive af you develop.” In particular, ticular Stella says behaviors ticular, beha

that sabotage healthy aging include eating processed foods, taking too many medications, not controlling stress and inactivity inacti . “I have ha had almost no injuries and very few aches and pains other than when I push myself too hard,” Kurz says. In addition to staying physically acti active, Kurz is a lobbyist for a grassroots advo ad cacy organization, a wife and mother of two sons, ages 19 and 21, as well as a volunteer with several organizations. “A few years ago, I fell down a flight of stairs and, other than a few bruises and scrapes, did very little damage to my body,” Kurz says. “I ha to believe exercise had a great have deal to do with that.” Regular exercise and physical acti activity are critical to helping older adults stay independent as they

age. Strengthening bone and joint health to protect mobility is all the moti tion most active motiva acti older adults need to exercise. Kurz appreciates those benefits, too, but likes the added challenges. In February she competed in the Life Time Fitness Alpha Showdown, a national competition that tests the body’s core energy systems: power, strength and endurance. Most competitors were much younger than Kurz. “I did not win,” she says, “But I don’t think I came in last either, either which was an achievement.” Firmly in the second half of her life, Kurz is certain she has never been healthier or felt stronger. “Every checkup, my doctor asks me, ‘Still exercising like crazy?’” she says. “And then he adds, ‘keep it up.’”

power walker lk thinks positively lker

While she walks dozens of miles a week, she admits, “It’s easy to get discouraged” but urges everyone to “just get out there and walk or run. “I like walking because you can stop and smell the roses.” But she said she rarely stops. Matur Life Mature Lif Features atur atures

HeaLTH maTTeRs smile test can sense stroke ok oke

A stroke can strike you or someone nearby suddenly and, if you know signs to watch for, you can lessen its severity. A stroke can inflict severe brain damage if no one recognizes the warning signs. It’s vital that the victim receive cei medical ceive assistance quickly. Medical experts offer of a simple test. Anyone who may be near an apparent stroke victim can ask the person to do three things: • Smile. • Talk; say a simple sentence like, “It’s a bright day.” • Raise both arms. If he or she has trouble with any one of these tasks, call 911

immediately and describe the symptoms to the dispatcher. There are some things you should be aware of as signs that you might be ha having a stroke. Among them are a sudden: • numbness or weakness in your face, arm or leg; • trouble seeing with one or both eyes; • confusion and trouble speaking or understanding; • loss of balance or coordination, dizziness, or trouble walking, and • severe headache.

While Gladys Burrill didn’t start marathoning until she was 86, she made it into the record books last year by jogging and walking the Honolulu Marathon in nine hours, 53 minutes and 16 seconds – the fastest time for a 92-year-old woman.

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on fixed incomes may not be able to afford to turn on air conditioners because of the power draw. There are different types of heat-related injuries, though heat exhaustion and heat stroke are the most common. Here are signs that a person may be experiencing one or the other. Heat Exhaustion • weakness • tiredness • heavy sweating • paleness • dizziness • nausea • vomiting • fainting • fast, weak pulse rate • headache • fast and shallow breathing

Flying can shorten life By CeCiL sCaGLione Mature Life Features

It’s generally accepted that air travel has become more stressful because of intensified airport security measures and manhandling, and packed planes resulting from slashed personnel and number of flights by airline companies. And we all know stress shortens lives. Now a study indicates that the mere act of jetting through times zones can lop years off your life. Disrupting your biological clock by traveling to faraway places on business or pleasure “can clearly cause accelerated neurodegeneration, loss of motor function and premature death,” according to a recent report out of Oregon State University. The biological clock is a complex genetic mechanism tuned to the 24-hour day and regular cycles of light, dark and sleep, researchers explained. It influences a wide range of biological processes, ranging from fertility and

hormone production to feeding patterns, DNA repair, sleep, stress reactions, and the effectiveness of medications. Strong correlations have been found between disrupted clock mechanisms, aging, and neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s disease. The decline and loss of clock function may be just the beginning of a damaging, circular process, said zoology professor Jadwiga Giebultowicz, project leader and member of the OSU Center for Healthy Aging Research. “When the biological clock begins to fail, rhythms that regulate cell function and health get disrupted, and we now know that this predisposes the brain to neurodegeneration,” she said. That neurodegeneration may cause more damage to the clock function. “A healthy biological clock helps protect against this damage,” she said. “When the clock fails, the damage processes speed up.”

What to do Friends or family members should check in with an elderly relative or friend when the weather is especially warm to ensure they’re safely handling the heat. In addition, people of all ages can take the following precautions to keep cool when the temperatures rise. • Drink cool, nonalcoholic beverages. Water and diluted fruit juices can help rehydrate the body quickly. • Restrict physical activity. • Take a cool shower or bath or wipe yourself down with a damp cloth. • Seek an air-conditioned environment. For those who won’t or can’t turn on the air conditioning, visit a shopping mall or library to keep cool. Some towns and cities also make cooling centers available in extreme heat. • Wear lightweight clothing. • Try to remain indoors during the hottest hours of the day. • Wear hats or use an umbrella to shield your head from sunshine

outdoors. • Eat cool foods, but avoid extremely cold foods. Otherwise you risk the chance of developing stomach cramps. • Do not do laundry or turn on appliances that contribute to extra indoor heat. The heat is nothing to take lightly, especially when it comes to seniors’ health.

Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center A “ Life Li Lived Li for Others Ot is a Life Li Wort Worthw rthwhi hwhile” hile”

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Heat stroke • extremely high body temperature (over 105 F) • red, hot and dry skin • absence of sweat • throbbing headache

• dizziness • nausea

July 2012

Many people might choose a nice, hot day over a blustery, cold afternoon. However, excessively hot days can not only feel uncomfortable, but they can also prove lifethreatening. Elderly men and women, in particular, are susceptible to the effects of hot temperatures. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people ages 65 and older are more prone to heat stroke and heatrelated stress than those of other ages. Seniors’ bodies are not able to adjust to sudden changes in temperature as quickly as younger people’s. A chronic condition that affects the body’s response to heat, as well as taking certain prescription medications also may play a role in seniors’ susceptibility to the heat. The City of Sacramento Department of Parks and Recreation says that around 370 deaths from heat-related illnesses occur across the United States each year. Nearly half of those deaths are people who are 65 and older. Prolonged heat exposure can take quite a toll on the average person. Factor in the more delicate health of many seniors, and the hot weather can be quite dangerous. Further compounding the problem is higher energy costs. Seniors living

50plus

Elderly especially susceptible to the heat

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July 2012

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CTW FEATURES

In “A Bittersweet Season: Caring for Our Aging Parents – and Ourselves” (Vinta (V ge, 2012), newly out in paperback, author Jane Gross chronicles the difficult dif final years of her mother’s life, weaving together intimate experience and practical ad advice . Here, the founder of The New York Times blog, The New Old Age, talks about the hard-earned lessons she’s learned along the way.

Q: What consequences can caring for an ailing loved one have ha on the health of the caregiver?

Q: You must have ha had many realizations during your mother’s decline. What stands out?

“The kindest thing you can do is just be present. Focus on quality of life, talk about your memories and ask stories about their lives. liv ”

“There “Ther may be many options for Mom, but waiting is not one of them. At Crestview Crestview, estview, we found an inspired inspir lifestyle, a loving staff, staf elegant surro sur undings and great gr value.”

Q: How can one use the experience of watching a parent age to make better decisions about their own health future? JG: Well, I don’t want to blame the victim – our parents grew up in a differ dif ent envir en onment than we li in now. I never saw my mother live riding a bicycle or even wearing sneakers, and her worst problems

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JG: Caretakers get a lot of advice ad about being healthy, but this can be dif difficult and becomes just another burden. That said, I started doing yoga when my mother was sick, and it was an enormous help. I got more massages and became a mani-pedi junkie because, at the nail salon, I didn’t know anyone, there were no questions, I was in suspended animation. These things were helpful, but more important was making adjustments inside my head. If I had to do it over, er I would have er, ha done quite well to think about the process differ dif ently. My brother and I were running ourselves ragged, almost as if we thought, “If we just — Jane Ja Gross do everything on our to-do list, everything will get better and we can get back to our live li s.” That doesn’t It’s a very differ dif ent kind of caring that was the epiphany: “I can’t make happen. It’s preordained. The end for yourself that really can take the her well or young, but I can make point is that the person is going to die, stress away. the time very rich for both of us.” whether it’s five years or a week from now. You have ha to think of it like a marathon, not a sprint – maybe then you won’t rush at the beginning, when you tend to make mistakes. There’s a whole school of geriatric medicine called slow medicine: Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should. Mother didn’t want a lot of stupid things done, and said no after a certain point. In my experience, it’s not the old people who want to keep going, but rather the children or medical professionals who ram it down your throat or don’t explain alternative ti s. tive Rather than viewing death as a medical problem with a To find out how you can save $500 per month on solution, you can see it as a natural part Assisted Living or Memory Support, call Eva at of life. The kindest thing you can do is just be present. Focus on quality of life, talk about your memories Crestview Retirement Community AL#104850 and ask stories about 2505 East Villa Maria Rd. • Bryan, TX 77802 • www.crestviewrc.org their live li s. For me,

July 2012

JG: There’s a mess of research on this. The issues are primarily stressrelated, actual diseases, depression and not caring for oneself physically, but there is wide variation. In general, the health of the caregiver correlates to whether they are responsible full or part time, the ill person’s condition, if you have ha help or if they are at home or at an assistedli living facility. But even if they are at a nursing home, you’re not off of the hook – you’re still visiting, advo ad cating and on-call mentally. If you tend to get colds, you will probably get a lot of colds. If you tend to get migraines, then you will likely get a lot of migraines. If stress typically makes you over-eat or under-eat, then it will likely be a problem.

initially were mobility issues. Had she exercised and not been overweight, it probably would have ha changed her particular trajectory. No matter what you do, you are still going to age, but watching someone fall apart and knowing how they ate, didn’t exercise or smoked certainly ought to give gi you pause.

50plus

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July 2012

Sit and Fit - Join other seniors at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road, every Tuesday and Thursday from noon to 12:45 p.m. For more information, contact Southwood Community Center, 979-764-6351 or College Station Parks and Recreation Department’s Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. Line dancing - Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road, holds line dancing for seniors every Tuesday from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. For more information, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or College Station Parks and Recreation Department’s Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. Bluegrass Jam Session Bluegrass Jam Sessions are held on Tuesdays at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road, from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. All skill levels welcome. Participants are asked to bring string instruments, and are welcome to bring guests. For more information, contact Southwood CommunityCenterat979-764-6351or College Station Parks and Recreation Department’s Senior Services at 979764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. 42 dominoes - Seniors meet every Thursday to play 42 at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. For more information, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or College Station Parks and Recreation Department’s Senior Services at 979764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. Bridge - Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road, offers of bridge for seniors every Friday from 9 a.m. to noon. For more information, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or College Station Parks and Recreation Department’s Senior Services at 979764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Line dancing - Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road holds line dancing for seniors from 10 a.m. to noon every Friday. For more information, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or College Station Parks and Recreation Department’s Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

July 3 Transitions of Life Seminar on durable medical equipment and skilled nursing facilities - The free session will feature information on healthcare resources and services available in the Brazos Valley. Seminars are offered of from 10 a.m. to noon at the Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road. Refreshments provided. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department’s Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

July 7 AARP driver safety class – Class in Spanish from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at St. Joseph Healthy Communities, 3030 E. 29th St., Suite 100 in Bryan. To register, call 979-731-1231. The cost is $12 for members, $14 for nonmembers or $5 for active or retired school personnel with a coupon.

July 9 Craft Day - A Southern Care Hospice employee will feature a new craft at 1 p.m. on the second Monday of each month. For more information, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or College Station Parks and Recreation Department’s Senior Services at 979764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov .

Department’s Senior Services at 979764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. AARP driver safety class – Class from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Brenham Senior Center, 1200 Market St. in Brenham. To register, call 979936-6952. Cost is $12 for members, $14 for non-members or $5 for active or retired school personnel with coupon.

July 14 AARP driver safety class – Class from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Watercrest, 3801 East Crest Drive in Bryan. Light lunch provided by host. Call 979-703-7088 for registration. Cost is $12 for members, $14 for nonmembers or $5 for all active or retired school personnel with coupon.

July 11 “Brain Games” activities Health talks are presented by Brazos County Health Department health educators from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on the second Wednesday of each month at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road. Refreshments served. For more

information, contact Southwood CommunityCenterat979-764-6351or College Station Parks and Recreation Department’s Senior Services at 979764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

July 13 Chicken Foot - Chicken Foot domino games held from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on the second Friday of each month at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road. Refreshments provided. For more information contact 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

July 18 Exploring History Lunch/ Lecture presents “Brazos River History and a Levee” with Wendy Patzewitsch – History lesson will be held at noon at the College Station Conference Center, 1300 George Bush Dr. Lunch begins at 11:30 a.m., and is available by reservation. Cost for lunch is $5 at the door. Reserve by calling 979-764-6351 or emailing kkelbly@cstx.gov. Free shuttle of offered from Southwood Community Center to Conference Center with

a reservation. RSVP for shuttle by calling 979-764-6351 or emailing kkelbly@cstx.gov.

July 19 Movie and Popcorn, “Midnight in Paris” – Seniors are invited to a movie and popcorn at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road. Movie starts at 1 p.m. For more details, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or College Station Parks and Recreation Department’s Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

July 20 Bingo and Birthday Celebration - Seniors with July birthdays are invited to bring their friends and celebrate at Southwood Community Center at 1 p.m. with cake and Bingo. Prizes for Bingo. For more information, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-7646351 or College Station Parks and Recreation’s Senior Services at 979-

See Calendar pa 19 page

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July 10 Transitions of Life Seminar on independent living and Hospice – The free session will be held from 10 a.m. to noon, and will feature information on healthcare resources and services available in the Brazos Valley. Seminars are held at the Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road. Refreshments provided. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department’s Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

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July 11 Computer Club - The Computer Club provides a chance to meet with other senior adults and learn more about computer skills. The topic will be “How to maintain your home computer”. Meetings are held at the Carter Creek training room, 2200 North Forest Parkway in College Station from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Free and no pre-registration needed. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation

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from page pa 18 764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

July 24 Computer classes for seniors – Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road, holds basic beginning computer skills in a small group or an intermediate class for those who know the basics. Beginning class meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. for three weeks. Intermediate class meets on Tuesday and Thursdays, from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Cost for each three-week class is $60. Register at rectrac.cstx.gov or visit the College Station Parks and Recreation Department, 1000 Krenek Tap Road. For more information ccontact 979-

764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

July 25 Casino Game Day and Luncheon - Casino games and lunch will be held for seniors from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road. Games, prizes and lunch provided. To reserve, contact College Station Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

July 30 Senior Advisory Committee Meeting - The Senior Advisory Committee will meet at 10 a.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road. For more information call 979-764-6351 or email mrodgers@cstx.gov.

retirement sites Plucking a place to retire that’s to everyone’s preference and pocketbook is not a pastime for the weak. But individuals indi and institutions keep on trying.

Mature tur Life ture Lif Features ur ures

Dr. Cabrera has joined General & Bariatric Surgical Associates in Bryan, TX where she joins Dr. Richard Alford and Dr. Michael Steines. Dr. Cabrera specializes in general surgery with an interest in breast and colon surgery. Dr. Cabrera is accepting new patients. For appointments and additional information, please call (979) 776-5631.

www.GBSABCS.com

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Ninety percent of baby boomers would rather live li at home than move into any of the current seniorhousing options available; according to AARP studies. it was reported in a recent press release by Mainstreet, a Cicero, Ind.-based realestate inve in stment firm that owns several senior-care and housing facilities. “The generation currently li living in senior housing grew up during the Great Depression and is comfor comf table li living a simple and moderate lifestyle,” said chairman and chief executive ecuti officer ecutive of Zeke Turner. “The generation after them is much differ dif ent.” Citing Administration on Aging figures, Mainstreet said the 65-and-over population will increase to 55 million by 2020 from 35 million in 2000. To meet the growing demands of the retiring baby-boomer generation will call for an in stment of $200 billion to inve $300 billion in senior care, he said. Mainstreet’s concept is to offer of facilities with the “look and feel of a cruise ship or vacation property, ty not a ty, hospital” with a heavy hea focus on social amenities such as beauty salons, game rooms, fitness facilities, multiple dining options, ice cream par parlors and pubs.

One way to launch your attempt to get into the game is to type “places to retire” in an Internet search engine. There are choices galore with innumerable conditions and criteria. One example is a list of the worst states in which to retire. A label for those at the top is “Frosty and Costly.” Connecticut tops the list because of a high cost of li living and hefty property and income taxes. Illinois is cited second because of rising income taxes. Rhode Island rides the third spot because of underfunded pension and health-care liabilities. Fourth is Vermont for the same reasons as Connecticut. Massachusetts is nicknamed “Taxachussets” because of high property taxes while New Jersey ranks sixth with the highest cost of living li and highest median property and income tax and budget deficit in the country. Minnesota is listed seventh because, among other things, it has no income-tax exemption for pensions or Social Security and New York is next because of its high cost of living li and property taxes. Ninth is Maine with no income-tax exemption for retirement income and Wisconsin is 10th because of its high property and income taxes. States with no income tax include Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Texas, Washington and Wyoming.

Kimiye R. Cabrera, MD, FACS

July 2012

money maTTeRs new senior housing designed for boomers

50plus

Calendar

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50plus The Eagle • theeagle.com

July 2012

Watercrest at Bryan – The Premier Active Adult Community of the Brazos Valley!

In addition to our award winning Independent Living Community, Watercrest at Bryan is proud to offer a new and unique Personal Advantage Program to the Brazos Valley. This new program offers an alternative to traditional independent living communities by providing three chef prepared meals a day, weekly housekeeping with linen service, escorts to meals and activities, and the peace of mind of knowing that courteous and professional Personal Advantage Associates are available 24 hours a day for emergencies and oversight. If you are determined to maintain your independence but would benefit from some personalized attention, we can now offer this lifestyle to you! Call today for more information. Make Watercrest at Bryan your home and have the time of your life in the prime of your life!

Call Today to schedule your tour, Don’t Forget to ask about “Close Out Pricing!”

1-888-781-3387  3801 East Crest Drive  Bryan (Corner of University Drive and Boonville Road)