50 Plus by The Eagle Advertising Department

A guide to good living in the Brazos Valley

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Shrimp and Grits

This recipe was inspired by A&M’ ﬁrst season in the SEC. A&M’s Pg. 3

Parkinson’s Disease

How physical therapy can help

Pg. 4

September 2012 • Vol. 5, Issue 5 • A monthly publication of the Bryan-College Station Eagle

Senior services Wide variety of assistance available in Brazos Valley PAGE PA GE 10

Boomers benefit from hearing aids as they work longer PAGE PA GE 15

50plus September 2012

CONTENTS Chef Diane: Shrimp and Grits

Bradway: Help for Parkinson’s

Health Matters

Financial Literacy: What to do with files

Cover: Brazos Valley senior resources

Calendar

16 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

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Dawn Goodall dawn.goodall@theeagle.com

Do you keep repeating the same stories?

My father, ther as he got ther, older increased the normal older, tendency to tell the same stories over and over again. Toward the end of his life, he had a brain scan which clearly ear showed early his brain had shrunk. What worries me is that I catch myself repeat Dr. BiLL KLeMM the same the memory meDiC things. So far, the repetition is mostly with differ dif ent people. Most of us seniors think of aging as hardening of the arteries. And it does. But aging also produces “hardening of the categories.” That is, as we get older our learned attitudes and behaviors beha get rehearsed so much that they become well-cemented in memory. This tends to make us mentally rigid and less able to “think out of the box.” It

is no accident, for example, that many breakthrough discoveries in science come from young scientists. Think Einstein. But then also think Darwin. Darwin’s mental breakthroughs came in his old age. How do we explain the discrepancy? Both of these thinkers were very original. But one kind of creative ti thought depended tive on the freshness of youth. The other depended on the experience and wisdom of age. But to get back on point, repeating the same things over and over again, whether to the same or differ dif ent people, is clearly ear a failure early to remember the previous tellings. Memory loss with aging can come from many sources. Silent strokes, which are blood clots in small vessels of the brain, appear rather commonly as one ages. One recent brain-scan study of 658 people, average age of 79 but with no signs

of dementia, revealed that 174 of them had experienced silent strokes. Their mental perf mance, including perfor memory was less than memory, normal. Stroke damage is often progressive, ssi ssive, and it can’t be reversed. The possibility, possibility now being tested, is that silent strokes are precursors to Alzheimer’s Disease. The people with silent stroke also had a smaller hippocampus, the part of the brain invo in lved in forming new memories. Hippocampal shrinkage would make it more diffi dif cult to learn new things, like a foreign language. It could also prevent you from remembering that you told the story right after telling it. Stories that are told and re-told are well cemented in memory and thus the most likely things to come to mind.

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MONEY MATTERS By CECIL SCAGLIONE SCA Matur Life Mature Lif Features atur atures

Shredding Saves Your Past

It used to be you could toss old bills and documents into the fireplace or stove to get rid of those records. Now, you shred them. But deciding what to shred is important to protect your past and future. Don’t burn – that is, don’t shred – your mortgage when it’s paid up. Keep a copy as a record of what you paid for the house to calculate your tax position when you sell it. You should shred bank withdrawal and deposit slips as soon as you check them against your bank statement each month. Tuck those monthly statements into your income-tax file. Experts recommend you keep them at least seven years; some suggest 10 years.

When you pull out your 10-year-old tax package, shred all those documents. Figure out what current receipts you need to keep. Those that aren’t required for taxes or warranties or proof-of-purchase for possible returns should be shredded afte af r you pay your monthly credit-card bill. Some folks even shred envelopes that come in the mail so thieves rifling through their trash won’t get their complete name and address. Keep in mind that identity thieves support themselves by getting your name, address, phone numbers, employer’s r’ name, any r’s inf mation linked to your tax infor preparer, er investment counselor, er, unselor unselor, financial advisor, advisor doctors and medical history, or your bank and credit-union accounts, store-card,

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Shrimp and Grits

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This Shrimp and Grits recipe can be served for breakfast or dinner. Cooking bacon in the oven cuts down on creating a mess. parsley if desired. Don’t forget to pass the 1 minute without stirring, flip shrimp to hot sauce. Bon Appétit! other side and cook 1-2 more minutes until shrimp is almost cooked. Add garlic and lemon juice and cook 1 more minute or Diane Lestina, a certified pe personal chef, until shrimp is cooked. Turn off heat, add holds cooking ing classes and cook ing oks for bacon and green onions. Salt and pepper residents nt nts in th e Br Brya n-College St ion Stat to taste. area. To learn more, re visit re, 5. Spoon cooked grits onto plates, top www hefd www.c he iane.com with shrimp mixture and garnish with

FREE VEIN SCREENINGS

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½ cup stone-ground grits ¾ cup good quality extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

2 slices bacon 10 ounces medium-large shrimp (36-40) , peeled and deveined 1-2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning 1 clove garlic, minced 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice 2-3 green onions – sliced 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley – for garnish 1. Cook the bacon – line a rimmed baking sheet with foil. Place bacon on foil, place in cold oven on middle rack and turn oven to 400 degrees. Cook for 17-20 minutes depending on the thickness of the bacon. When bacon is done (but not too crispy) remove pan from oven and place bacon strips on paper towels (reserving bacon grease). 2. In medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of salted water to a boil over high heat. Slowly pour the grits into boiling water stirring constantly. Reduce heat to low, and stir of n. Simmer the grits until all the water ofte has been absorbed, about 20 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in cheese. 3. Coat the shrimp with Cajun seasoning. 4. When grits are almost done, heat a 12 inch skillet over high heat for 1 minute. Add 1 tablespoon bacon grease from cooked bacon (or butter). Add shrimp, reduce heat to medium-high and cook shrimp for

September 2012

It’s September and for many people, that means only one thing Aggie football! The Aggies’ move to the SEC has inspired me to think about my southern recipes, and this is a good one. I like to cook my bacon on a foillined baking sheet in the oven. Even though you ha another have pan to wash, it controls the stove top mess that splattering bacon causes. Look for stoneground grits or Diane Lestina cornmeal at the Cook it Simple grocery store; www.ChefDiane.Com stone-ground corn makes the best grits (cornbread, too, by the way). This is a great dish for guests, and it can be served for breakfast eakf eakfast or dinner. The recipe makes enough for two, but is easily expanded. If you want to make more, be sure your sauté pan is large enough to hold the shrimp in one layer – or use two pans.

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SEC-inspired Shrimp and Grits recipe

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I was just diagnosed dia with Parkinson’s Disease and have been reading about the disease. Most of what I see talks about medications, medications but some articles mention how physical therapy therap apy can help and new infor inf mation about how vigor vig ous exercise er ercise ma may actually ll slow down the damage lly dama . But some of the articles contradict themselves. Can you shed some light on Parkinson’s? I plan to talk to my doctor as well. JH Brya Br n, Tx This is a great question because many people do not realize that physical therapy can help Parkinson’s patients. In fact, research demonstrates Leon BraDway Dw Dway that working with a qualified phySiCal therap herapy physical therapist results in greater improvements than exercising alone. For readers who may not know, Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a nerve cell disorder affecting af the part of the brain that controls a person’s movements and posture. The

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September 2012

Physical therapy can help Parkinson’s patients nerve cells in the brain responsible for producing a chemical called dopamine (i.e., a chemical that sends signals to other parts of the brain and into the body to coordinate movement and posture) die or stop working properly oper . While no one really knows operly why this happens, many researchers believe it has envir en onmental and biological causes. It is suggested that between 7 to 10 million people worldwide suffer suf from PD and over 60,000 more cases are diagnosed each year (Parkinson ar arkinson Disease Foundation). Most patients who suffer suf PD first noticed symptoms such as trembling in their hands. arms, legs or face, increased stiffness stif in extremities or a slowing of their movements. Over time, all of these symptoms are likely to occur, occur as well as balance problems, rigidity lack of coordination, bent rigidity, posture and pain. While there is no cure for PD, and the disease is progressive, ssi ssive, there are things you can do to improve the quality of your life, reduce your fall risk, decrease pain/ stif stiffness and stay active acti . As you noted, research studies ha had mixed results about how to have combat the disease process. However, er er, more recent studies appear to reflect similar results such as those that in lve the importance of physical invo acti activity/ex ercise befor bef e and during the diagnoses and the effecti effective fectiveness of physical therapy in managing the disease. In addition, there is evidence that more vigorous and varied exercise that invo in lves the brain and the body is most

session last between 30 to 40 minutes. 2. I recommend that you vary the type of exercises you perfor perf m. For example, if you like to ride a bike, vary the intensity of the speed with which you pedal during your routine. You should continue the higher speed for a certain amount of seconds or minutes and make it a goal to work at a higher speed for a certain amount of time. You could also peddle forward or backwards for a period. Some research demonstrates that differ dif ent cueing (verbal, tactile, visual) can help engage the brain and body. This might invo in lve counting, focusing on an object, tapping your leg and so on. Another example of varied exercise would be on the treadmill, you want to vary speed and incline and possible focus on something on the wall and/ or count steps. Swimming is another good example, vary your strokes, count your strokes, open and close your eyes every so many strokes. 3. I have ha listed some basic exercises that you can do at home to get started. The exercises can be viewed on our website at BV ysicaltherapy.com or go to our BVph youtube.com/flexibility (for (f PD).

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effective effecti fective. Based on my 25 years of experience in the field and working with Parkinson’s patients, I know that patients will benefit from physical therapy. I also believe that physical acti activity throughout your life, but particularly ticular if diagnosed with PD is ticularly very important. I highly recommend that anyone diagnosed with PD meet with a physical therapist early ear on and/ or ask your doctor for a referral to physical therapy. It is important to know that it is the quality of the exercise program with varying tempo that is the key to your success. Much can be done to potentially delay the progression, improve your quality of life, and at the very least help you remain independent and safe for as long as possible. This is important for the patient as well as the caregiver. In fact, I always recommend that the caregiver attend the initial meeting with the patient as well as any and all of the subsequent exercise sessions. Example physical therapy program for Parkinson’s patients 1. Here are some hard facts to consider befor bef e starting an exercise program. Individuals Indi diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease need to exercise five to six times a week and the exercises need to vary in intensity. It is also recommended that an exercise

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Discuss your overall goals and find out how each professional can help you meet them. Ask for a list of the specific documents he or she will prepare for you. • Realize that estate planning is an ongoing process. You should update your estate plan every few years or any time you experience a major life change, such as the birth of a child, marriage, divo di rce or death of a spouse or parent. • Finally, once you’ve prepared for your loved ones’ financial future, don’t forget to take care of their

emotional well-being. Estate plan documents are dry and technical, and they won’t communicate your emotions to those you leave lea behind. Consider writing a letter to your spouse and family expressing your final thoughts and feelings. Keep the letter with key financial paperwork or ork and make sure your loved ones know where to locate these items. To learn more about estate planning, visit the NAEPC Education Foundation’s public awareness website www. EstatePlanningAnswers.org.

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professional, gather all your personal and financial infor inf mation, make lists of your current financial advisers ad , assets and liabilities, collect financial documents such as retirement plans, life insurance policies, property deeds, partnership and business agreements and your income tax returns for the past two years. • Write out your own personal goals, concerns and ideas. Identify people whom you would like to have ha inherit your property when you die, and specify what you would like to leave lea each. Make note of any special needs or situations, such as a dependent child or a spouse whose disability will prevent him or her from working. Identify people you would like to name as guardian for minor children, as well as an executor for your will. • Seek out the right professionals. You’ll find any number of people who profess to be estate planners, but NAEPC designees complete rigorous educational requirements for estate planning and adhere to a strict code of ethics. To find an accredited estate planner, planner visit the association’s website, www.estateplanninganswers. org. • Bring your notes and all the inf mation you’ve gathered with infor you to your meeting. Being prepared can save sa you hours of billable time.

September 2012

(ARA) – Setting up an estate plan is a good inve in stment for the future. But you can also be a careful steward of your financial assets now, with careful and organized planning as you go through the estate planning process. Furthermore, the third week in October (Oct. 15-21) is National Estate Planning Awareness Week and the perfect time to put your estate planning house in order. Estate planning is an important component of your overall financial plan, regardless of your age, income or size of your estate. If you own property and have ha heirs, you need to think about estate planning. To do the job well, you’ll need the help of a team of professional accredited estate planners such as a certified public accountant, a lawyer, er insurance er, professionals and financial planners, and trust officers of . Professional fees can add up if you don’t manage time well, so it’s important to prepare for every meeting with your estate planning team members. It’s a great time to think about how you can maximize the value of the time you spend with your estate planning team. The NAEPC offers of this advice ad on how to have ha productive oducti working oductive relationships with your planners: • Befor Bef e meeting with a

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September 2012

Colonoscopies Catch Cancer If you’ve been avoiding, or dreading, a colonoscopy, it’s time to give some thought to this important cancerscreening tool. “A colonoscopy is an amazing tool that allows us to see how healthy our insides are, e,” said Dr. Christine Hachem, assistant professor of ofessor of internal medicine and a gastroenterologist at Saint Louis University. “While you may feel anxious about the procedure, a discussion with your doctor can ease many of your concerns.” The most common use for colonoscopies is for colon and rectal cancer screening in someone without symptoms. They’re also used to evaluate those who are experiencing symptoms, like a change in bowel habits, blood in your bowel movements, or anemia. Screening colonoscopies are recommended for the general population beginning at age 50. However, there are some groups, such as African-Americans, who should start screening colonoscopies at age 45 because of their increased risk of colon cancer. In addition, if you have a disease such as an inflammatory bowel that puts you at increased risk of colon cancer, er family er, history of colon cancer or related cancer, er or er, symptoms or concerning signs, you should

discuss the best time to get the procedure with your doctor. Hachem offers off five reasons why you should talk to your doctor about colonoscopies. 1. The first reason is simple. This single 20-minute test can save your life. lif It helps identify those at risk of developing cancer. Waiting until you develop signs or symptoms may be too late. 2. Your worries may be misplaced. “T to your doctor about your concerns “Talk because there are a lot of ways of preparing for and doing the same procedure and we can tailor the procedure to each patient’s t’ needs,” Hachem said. t’s 3. You probably won’t remember it. Patients usually are given sedative medication that makes them feel relaxed and sleepy. “Most people wake up af rwards asking when the procedure will afte start, t,” Hachem said. 4. Having a colonoscopy at the recommended time helps keep the odds in your favor. During the procedure, your doctor may discover and remove precancerous polyps, which can keep cancer from developing. If the test finds cancer, er treatment can begin right away. er, The sooner a cancer is caught, the better chances you have at beating it. 5. A colonoscopy doesn’t just affec aff t you. It gives your family valuable inf mation about their own risk of cancer. infor

Postmenopausal Bleeding a Cancer Concern

higher risk of uterine cancer

Gynecologists are encouraging women to become aware of cancers involving their reproductive organs. Recognizing possible symptoms of gynecologic cancers can lead to diagnosis and timely treatment, said Dr. Debra Richardson, a University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center gynecologic oncologist. Women who have gone through menopause, for instance, should not experience any menstrual bleeding. “Any bleeding, even spotting, afte af r menopause is not normal and should be checked out by a gynecologist,” she said. Some common causes of postmenopausal bleeding include: – Polyps: usually noncancerous, these growths can develop in the uterus, on the cervix, or inside the cervical canal; – Endometrial atrophy: the tissue that lines the uterus can become very thin afte af r menopause. – Endometrial hyperplasia: sometimes the lining of the uterus becomes thick, usually due to too much estrogen and too little progesterone. Some patients may have abnormal cells that can lead to endometrial cancer, er and er, – Cancer: bleeding afte af r menopause can be a sign of endometrial or uterine cancer. Women who are obese are at

More Women Killed by Heart Disease Than Cancer If you ask women to name the No. 1 cause of death, most will say cancer. But University of Alabama at Birmingham experts say more women die from heart disease than all forms of cancer combined. Many of these deaths are preventable. “One of every three women will die of heart disease,” says Dr. Donna Arnett, president-elect of the American Heart Association and chair of the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s School of Public Health’s epidemiology department. For comparison, she said one in eight women get breast cancer and the survival rate is as high as 94 percent. Yet women are more afraid of cancer than heart disease. “I think with all the media coverage of breast cancer, er women are unaware that er, heart disease actually kills more women, young and old,” Arnett says. “For some reason women still don’t perceive themselves to be at risk for heart disease,” said Dr. Vera Bittner, Bittner professor of ofessor of medicine in UAB’s B’ Division of B’s Cardiovascular Disease and section head

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Memory Medic from page 2

If you do realize that you are telling the same story again and again, that at least is a hopeful sign. If it is any consolation, some people say they notice this story re-telling phenomenon in younger people. This seems to be associated with a lack of social contact, irrespective of age. Another factor that has little to do with age is that we re-tell stories that we like and that worked well socially in earlier re-telling. Boredom could also be a factor. Repetition may occur if you don’t have much else to talk about. Another factor could be that re-telling these stories helps to construct a coherent life history that one needs as life’s fuse is burning out. This could help older people make sense of their life’s journey. I recommend two approaches for the category hardening problem. 1. Reduce physical deterioration with a healthy lifestyle of a proper diet and exercise. This includes eating less fat, increasing the proportion of omega-3 fatty

acids in the diet, increasing intake of anti-oxidants, and probably taking daily aspirin for blood thinning and statins to keep down blood cholesterol. 2. Compensate by increasing your repertoire of new things to talk about. Live life more fully by engaging intensely with people and with the world. Talk more about the present and the future. Sources: Blum, S. et al. (2012). Memory after silent stroke. Hippocampus and infarcts both matter. Neurology. 78: 38-46. Ritchie, K. et al. (2010). Caffeine, cognitive functioning, and white matter lesions in the elderly: establishing causality from epidemiological evidence. J. Alzheimer’s Disease. 20: 161-166. Dr. Klemm is a Senior Professor of Neuroscience at Texas A&M and author of two recent memory books, Better Grades, Less Effort, and Memory Power 101. He also has a learning and memory blog at thankyoubrain. blogspot.com.

Nurse Associations of America and WomenHeart: The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease. The goal of Get Old is to amplify the conversation on aging and learn more about how Americans at all ages are tackling aging for themselves, their family, and society. At the center

of the initiative is a first-of-its-kind online community, GetOld.com, where people can discuss aging by sharing and viewing stories, photos, and videos about getting old. The site provides people the opportunity to vote on how they feel about aging: Angry, Uneasy, Optimistic or Prepared.

Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center Others Is a Life Worthwhile” r o f d e v i L e f i “ L A

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• 51 percent of all people surveyed think they look younger than their age, and 40 percent think they are wiser than their age

• Given a list of lifetime achievements, those 18 to 34 (45 percent) rank having $1 million first, while those over 65 (48 percent) would rather see their grandchild graduate from college “We all have one thing in common - each day we get older. At every age and stage of our lives, we can make choices and take actions that will help us live longer and better. There are so many positive role models today who are changing how people think about aging,” said Dr. Freda Lewis-Hall, Pfizer’s Chief Medical Officer. “There’s a huge opportunity to support the shift that’s underway. At GetOld.com, we want to hear what people want and need to live better and healthier and create a forum for dialogue on what it means to ‘get old’ today.” The Get Old initiative is supported by the following leading organizations: Easter Seals, International Longevity Center at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, Men’s Health Network, National Alliance for Caregiving, National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship, National Consumers League, National Family Caregivers Association, Patient Advocate Foundation, Society for Women’s Health Research, Visiting

September 2012

(ARA) - With 10,000 Americans turning 65 every day - and according to recently released research, a majority of them expecting to live to nearly 90 - the celebration of older Americans is a developing trend, and more people are aspiring to live longer and better than ever before. The latest research conducted by Gallup and Robinson as part of Pfizer’s Get Old initiative asked more than 1,000 Americans 18 to 65+ years old how they feel about getting old. The results showed that priorities and perceptions about aging shift over time. Key findings of the research include: • Nearly half of those over 50 (41 percent) said they were “optimistic” about getting old as compared with “uneasy”, “angry” or “prepared” • A vast majority of those who feel aging is better than expected cite good health (74 percent), wisdom (72 percent) and greater appreciation for friends and family (72 percent) as the top reasons

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What to do with all those files Fill in the blank: I would rather ____ than search for hours through unlabeled boxes and file cabinets for a certain piece of paper. If you wrote something like “do anything,” you’re my kind of person. I am by no means a neurotically tidy record keeper, but I hate to search for misplaced papers because I would tracy stewart rather finanCial literaCy be doing something more pleasant. If your tax records are incomplete, a random IRS audit could cost you money, time and perhaps sanity. You might be assessed additional tax because you cannot provide documentation to prove a large deduction. Divorces are another situation where good recordkeeping comes in handy -- both financially and emotionally. Record retention is no longer simply a matter of

organized and neatly labeled file folders. Your records may need to be stored in more than one place and in more than one medium. In addition to file folders, you may need a safety deposit box, a home safe, CDs, DVDs, the Cloud, an encrypted hard drive, photographs, videotape or off site storage. Your system Create a system that works for you. This system should be secure, easy to maintain, and easily accessible on a weekly or monthly basis for periodic additions and retrievals. If you can make it pleasant, that’s a plus. Choose a system that protects your records from fire, water and smoke damage, insect or rodent chomping and thieves. If you are storing electronic media, be sure to have one or two back up copies. For every CD of records I have, I also have a second identical CD (in a separate location) in case the first CD is damaged or just too tired to work when I

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from page pa 4 Exercises to increase flexibility • Seated Hamstring Stretch - Seated in a chair, air air, place one leg on a coffee cof table. Straighten the knee. Hold for 10 minutes if you are very tight. Stop if your knee begins to hurt. Do the other leg, then try both legs together. Progress at your own pace. Never push until it hurts. • Seated and Standing

Make the switch today Federal benefit recipients can switch to electronic payments online at www.GoDirect.org or through the U.S. Treasury Electronic Payment Solution Center toll-free at 1-800-3331795. It’s free to switch and takes less than 10 minutes. Go paperless per perless today and enjoy electronic benefits for many years to come. The preceding infor inf mation has been provided by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, easury Financial easury, Management Service. The cardholder survey was conducted by KRC Research and commissioned by MasterCard Worldwide on behalf of the Treasury Department’s Financial Management Service. The Go Direct(R) campaign is sponsored by the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the Federal Reserve Banks. The Direct Express(R) logo, Go Direct(R) and Direct Express(R) are registered service marks mar , and the Go Direct(SM) logo is a service mar of the U.S. Department of the mark,

Treasury, easury Financial Management easury, Service. The Direct Express(R) Debit MasterCard(R) card is issued by Comerica Bank, pursuant to a license by MasterCard International Incorporated. MasterCard(R) and the MasterCard(R) Brand Mark Mar are registered trademarks trademar of MasterCard International Incorporated.

Learn more about electronic payments The Treasury Department’s Go Direct(R) public education campaign is working with more than 1,800 partner organizations nationwide to spread the message about the electronic payment rule and to educate federal benefit recipients about their options. The campaign recently introduced a new public service announcement as well as a series of educational videos and print materials that explain how electronic payments work and how to use the Direct At Waldenbrooke Estates, we’ve blended independence and personalized service into an affordable lifestyle to meet Express(R) card. The your needs today and tomorrow. videos and materials Save up to $11,740* a year are available on the Includes over 50 weekly programs, fitness center and classes, three chef prepared meals daily, weekly housekeeping Go Direct campaign website at www. and so much more! *Good through September 30th, 2012 GoDirect.org.

March (Can be done sitting or standing) - Seated: raise one knee up and lower it back down. Then do the other leg. Alternate for 20 repetitions on each side. Standing: make sure you have ha a spotter or counter to hold on to. Raise one knee as high as you can and then lower it. Alternate marching knees for 20 repetitions on each side.

Leon Brad Br way is a phys physical therap er ist andd director of erap the Sports Back and Pain Manage na ment Clinic. Contac nage nt t ntac him at www vphysicaltherap www.b erapy. erap apy.com.

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Easy and safe to use Introduced in June 2008, the Direct Express(R) card has helped more than 3 million Americans to safely and easily access their federal benefit payments. The card, which can be used with no or low fees, provides a more conve con nient way for all Americans to access their federal benefits, while also improving government efficienc ef y and delive deli ring more than $1 billion in savings sa .

Federal benefit recipients also can choose to have ha their benefit payments deposited directly into their bank or credit union account. The Treasury Department published a final rule in December 2010 to gradually eliminate paper checks for federal benefit payments. Since May 1, 2011, anyone applying for new federal benefits, including Social Security, Security Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Veterans Af irs, Railroad Retirement Board, Affa Of Office of Personnel Management benefits and other non-tax payments, ha had to choose direct deposit or have a Direct Express(R) card when they sign up for the benefit. For those who began receiving cei ceiving benefits earlier earlier, lier, March 1, 2013 is the final deadline, and all remaining federal benefit check recipients must start receiving cei ceiving their money electronically.

September 2012

(ARA) - If you receive cei one of ceive the 6 million paper checks for your monthly Social Security or another federal benefit, the time has come to switch to the safety and conve con nience of electronic payments. With less than one year until the March 1, 2013, deadline for all federal benefit recipients to switch from paper checks to electronic payments, a new U.S. Department of the Treasury study has found overwhelming support for its recommended Direct Express(R) Debit MasterCard(R) card. According to a cardholder survey, ey 95 percent ey, of individuals indi who use the Direct Express(R) card to receive cei monthly ceive Social Security payments are satisfied with the card, and 93 percent also report they are likely to recommend the card to others. “W hope that hearing about the “We extremely high satisfaction tisf tisfaction with the Direct Express(R) card will encourage check recipients to make the switch to the card or direct deposit as soon as possible,” says David Da Lebryk, commissioner of the Treasury Department’s Financial Management Service. “This card helps senior citizens, people with disabilities and others who lack access to traditional banking services to pay bills, withdraw cash and make purchases without worrying about their paper checks being lost or stolen or paying check-cashing fees.”

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Social security recipients embrace electronic payments, Treasury-recommended prepaid card

Calendar of Events

Tuesday, September 4th 2:00 pm • Volunteering Opportunities with RSVP Love to help others? Carolyn Kraus of RSVP will discuss volunteer opportunities in the Brazos Valley.

Saturday, September 15th 2:00-4:00 pm • Waldenbrooke Estates Come take a tour and have some refreshments at Waldenbrooke Estates. We have some wonderful floor plans to show and exciting specials to share!

RSVP for all events by calling 888-899-7077

Independent Living 2410 Memorial Drive | Bryan, TX 77802 888-899-7077 | www.seniorlifestyle.com

50plus September 2012 The Eagle • theeagle.com

Special to The Eagl Ea e

The Aging and Disability Resource Center – a grant-funded program under the Brazos Valley Council of Governments – has emerged as a first stop for all disabled residents and seniors seeking help in the community. “The Aging and Disability Resource Center serves customers with disabilities of all ages and seniors to find and access services in the sevencounty region (Brazos, Burleson, Bur Grimes, Leon, Madison, Robertson and Washington Counties),” said Crystal Leon, program manager for the resource center. “Our services include integrated inf mation, referral and assistance to help infor people find resources, system navig na ation to help people find and claim public and priva pri te benefits and long-term options counseling to help people know what long-term care options are available.” Disabled residents of any age and seniors over the age of 60 can begin their search by visiting the resource center office of at 3991 E. 29th St. in Bryan, e-mailing cleon@bvcog.org, calling 979-595-2800 ext. 2013 or visiting www.bvcog.org/ programs/aging-and-disability-resource-center/. Open for six months, Leon said the center – housed at the Center for Regional Services – can assist individuals indi by learning about their needs and directing them to appropriate services and supports, linking them to resources such as those offer of ed by the Mental Health Mental Retardation Authority of the Brazos Valley, lley Texas lley, Department of Aging and Disability Services, local support groups for disabilities and more. Leon said the center exists to educate indi individuals who are aging or have ha a disability to empower them to make knowledgeable decisions, streamline access to a wide variety of services and support and serve as a highly visible and trusted resource. Entitlement programs for all seniors The Brazos Valley Area Agency on Aging – under which the resource center operates – offers of numerous state- and federally-funded programs that benefit all seniors over the age of 60, including the disabled population. From home delive deli ry and “congregate” nutrition programs (in which meals are served at a single site) to programs geared toward minor home repairs, the agency serves the home-bound elder and works to improve the homes of elderly seniors, as an alternative ti to group care. tive “With our Homemaker program, we offer of house cleaning and care around the home,”

Gipson said. “These are individuals indi who can assist with meal preparation and running errands. They can do light housework to make the home safe and healthy to live li in.” The agency contracts with licensed, approved home health agencies for the Homemaker program. Gipson said these workers do not provide any physical contact with clients, such as monitoring or administering meds. However, er through its Respite Care program, er, the agency does provide in-home care to seniors for three to four hours per week, allowing the primary caregiver to take a break from their responsibilities. Respite care providers can work with patients, administering medicine and clearing the home of items that might cause a senior to trip and fall. The agency offers of Emergency Response Systems – electronic monitoring systems that it installs in seniors’ homes free of charge, to alert emergency personnel in case they fall or have ha an accident. The Minor Home Repair Program helps with repairs around the home, as they relate to health and safety issues. “This isn’t for cosmetic work or beautification,” Gipson said. “These repairs are strictly for safety and health reasons.” Possible home improvements can include light plumbing, widening of doors to move wheelchairs through doors, installation of bathroom rails and raised commodes, modification of showers so that seniors can roll in their wheelchairs or walk in, replacement of rotten wood, installation of ramps, pest control and minor roof repair. Transportation services to and from physicians’ offices of , grocery stores and even to senior centers are available. The agency also provides for senior center operations in each of the counties it serves, education programs on chronic diseases and fall prevention (which includes an exercise component to help seniors build strength and prevent injury from falls), benefits counseling programs to help seniors apply to Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security and supplemental insurance programs. Caregivers of individuals indi age 60 or over and seniors taking care of minor children can receive cei ceive support and assistance through the agency, as well. Gipson said the agency is serving more centurions than in previous years, providing for di rse needs across the senior population. dive “The young 60 year old is differ dif ent from the person that’s 103,” Gipson. “Their care needs and

characteristics are very differ dif ent.” Younger, er active er, acti seniors may be interested in the stock marke mar t, retirement, trave tra ling and line dancing, while older seniors may be dealing more with health issues, nursing homes and assisted li living care and are concerned about not outliving outli their income. Among the greatest needs for seniors in the Brazos Valley, lley Gipson said, are affo lley, af rdable housing and respite care. Additional resources Disabled seniors and their caregivers also can find infor inf mation quickly through the Senior Resource Guide, published annually by The Eagle, by dialing 2-1-1 and by attending the Senior Expo offer of ed annually during the month of May. The Center on Disability and Development at Texas A&M Unive Uni rsity also publishes the online Directory of Community Resources in Texas, available at disabilityresources.tamu. edu. Residents throughout the state can search resources – which include support groups, respite care, home health agencies and more – by zip code. Sue Calhoun, a member of the Down’s Syndrome Association of Brazos Valley said other starting points for disabled seniors seeking local help are the Arc of Brazos Valley, lley the Brazos lley, Valley Bomber Booster Club, Junction 505 and The DayBreak Group in College Station. The Arc is a support group that accepts indi individuals with any disability. For more inf mation contact President John Herrera infor at 979-703-1533. The Brazos Valley Bomber Booster Club, formed in the 1980s, supports indi individuals who have ha graduated high school in their participation in Special Olympics. For more inf mation contact Don Calhoun at 979-279-2752 infor or calh4@aol.com. Junction 505 (www.junction505.org) in Bryan is a priva pri te, nonprofit business organized to aid people with disabilities in finding employment. DayBreak Group provides outings, job trainings and other services to individuals indi with disabilities. For more infor inf mation visit www.daybreak-hcs. com. Elder-Aid, founded in Bryan-College Station by Sara Loeppert in 1990, purchases houses and land through monetary donations, fundraisers, government programs and community support. It then recruits volunteers, purchases or finds donations to build or repair houses and then rents them to elderly elder clients on a sliding scale. For more infor inf mation visit www.elderaidbcs.org.

The Eagle • theeagle.com

By HOLLI L. ESTRIDGE

September 2012

including finding a job, transportation and nutrition programs

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Services for seniors Brazos Valley area offers help with needs

50plus September 2012 The Eagle • theeagle.com

How to manage diabetes and its cost (ARA) - Managing diabetes often comes at a great financial cost. Just ask the nearly near 26 million people living li with the disease, many of whom pay out of pocket for treatment and self care. Whether you pay out of pocket or through your insurance co-pay system, you’re not alone if you feel you’re paying too much to gain control of your condition. The American Diabetes Association recommends insulindependent diabetes patients test their blood sugar three times a day, which can set a patient back $1,000 a year in average costs of glucose strips alone. It’s a costly scenario, but medical doctors such as John Agwunobi, president of Walmart U.S. Health and Wellness, agree it should be considered a health priority. “In recent years, diabetes has been ranked the fifth leading cause of death in the U.S. and is now the fastest growing disease in the country says Agwunobi. “It is country,” imperative ti that we help the millions tive of Americans who are struggling to manage their diabetes alleviate some of the financial burden.” The American Diabetes Association offers of these tips for people with diabetes to manage the disease and lower risk for complications and expenses:

MONEY MATT MA ERS from page pa 2

utility-account, retirement-fund, investment-portfolio tf tfolio , creditcard, insurance-policy and Social Security numbers.

Handle Your Plastic With Care Credit card issuers have been paying attention to Albert Einstein, who has been credited by many with proclaiming that the most potent force in the world is compound interest. That’s why your monthly credit-card statement indicates the minimum payment required. It may a boon to your budget

HEALTH AL ALTH MA ERS MATT from page pa 6

of Preventive Cardiology. “Women see it as a men’s disease, and they are more likely to interpret chest discomfor omf t as coming from omfor indigestion instead of a heart attack.” Symptoms of a heart attack in woman also may differ diff from those in men. “Many women may not have the classic chest pain or jaw discomfor omf t. Women may ofte omfor of n

• Schedule regular visits with your doctor and dentist to stay on top of the disease; your local pharmacist also can be a great resource for diabetes-related questions. • Eat a healthy diet that limits carbohydrates and calories. • Exercise with 30 minutes of moderate physical activity acti five days per week. • Join a local diabetes community group to stay moti ted and find a motiva support system. To help people ease mounting expenses associated with diabetes management, Walmart has lowered prices on a wide selection of high-quality ReliOn brand treatment products, which could end up saving sa you or a loved one up to $800 a year on glucose strips alone. This commitment includes low prices on many essential diabetes treatment products including blood glucose

but it’s no way to manage your money. That minimum, usually around 4 percent of your total, may keep you current but it can be costly. If all you pay each month is the minimum required, you are paying interest on the debt as well as on the interest built up over the previous months. That’s compounding interest. And you’ll never get that bill paid. Never. Credit-card issuers also can change your interest rate. Read you monthly statements carefully. Interest rates usually are higher for cash advances. And there’s e’ usually a transaction e’s fee, which can be as much as 5 percent of the amount. have more nausea and vomiting or back pain than men,” Arnett said. To combat the onset of the disease, Arnett cited “Life’ “Life’s e’s Simple 7” plan: manage blood pressure, reduce blood sugar, sugar quit smoking, lose weight, get active, control cholesterol, and eat better. “Women need to take as much care of themselves as they do for their families. You cannot put yourself last, but women tend to do that, t,” she said.

monitoring meters and strips, insulin and 15 differ dif ent diabetes prescriptions for only $4 each for a 30-day supply. “W e worked closely with “We’v our suppliers and found a way to significantly reduce the cost of diabetes products for all of our customers, but this is just one example of a larger commitment

to provide affo af rdable healthcare solutions to Americans,” adds Agwunobi. “We “W want to make sure Americans can affo af rd to stay healthy - whether managing their diabetes or treating the common cold.” For more infor inf mation, visit http:// health.walmart.com/health-tips/ diabetes.

The Most Important Thing in any Relationship of the

Winner

2012

Robert Herring, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology

3030 E. 29th Street, Suite 117 Bryan, TX 77802 www.listenhearaudiology.com

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.

disposing of them. Destroy the labels on your prescription pill bottles and packages befor bef e throwing them away. The OIG also offers of tips for medical identity theft protection, including: • Treat your Medicare and Social Security numbers and cards as carefully as you would your credit cards. • Be wary of anyone who asks for your Medicare number in exchange for “free” medical equipment or services. If what they’re offering of is really free, they shouldn’t need your numbers. • Never let anyone use your Medicare ID card. The Ponemon survey found that a growing number of survey respondents (5 percent more in 2012 than in 2011) ha allowed a family member to have use their personal identification to obtain medical services, including treatment, healthcare products or pharmaceuticals. Doing so is against the law, and may affo af rd unscrupulous indi individuals the chance to use that inf mation for unauthorized infor

purposes. According to the Ponemon survey, ey ey, it takes, on average, about a year to resolve an instance of medical identity theft, and a quarter of the survey respondents said it took more than two years. As with a serious medical issue, resolution can be made more challenging depending on how long the problem is allowed to fester. Take an active acti role in protecting your medical infor inf mation from identity thieves. Check your medical records regularly gular and keep an eye on gularly all your financial and credit accounts. Products like ProtectMyID can help. A comprehensive ehensi identity theft ehensive detection, protection and resolution product, it can help you prevent the damages caused by identity theft. “Medical identity theft hits consumers both medically and financially,” says Dr. Larry Ponemon, chairman and founder of the Ponemon Institute. “For three years in a row, our findings have ha consistently shown that medical identity theft crime continues to increase in terms of prevalence and costs to the victim.”

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

The Eagle • theeagle.com

The Federal Trade Commission recommends you take these steps to help prevent medical identity theft: • Befor Bef e you share medical inf mation with anyone, verify infor who you’re talking to. Never provide infor inf mation over the phone or through the mail unless you initiated the contact and you’re confident you’re dealing with a legitimate organization. Be aware that medical identity thieves often try to scam consumers by posing as representative ti s of insurance tive companies, doctor’s offices of , pharmacies and even government agencies. • Protect your infor inf mation. Keep paper copies of medical or insurance records and forms in a secure, locked file or drawer. When managing your health or insurance accounts online, be wary of any site that asks you to share sensitive sensiti infor inf mation like your Social Security number, mber insurance mber, account number or details of your medical conditions. Look for the hallmar that a website is secure, hallmarks including a web address (URL) that begins with “https” (the “s” stands for “secure”) and a lock symbol in the lower right-hand corner of the page. • Picking through trash is a common ploy of identity thieves. Shred your discarded health insurance forms, bills and medical records befor bef e

September 2012

(ARA) - Two million Americans fall victim to medical identity theft each year, ar according to a study by the ar, Ponemon Institute, commissioned by Experian’s ProtectMyID. While medical identity theft costs victims an average of $22,346, the potential impact can be far greater - medical identity theft could cost some victims their health, or even their live li s. Medical identity theft invo in lves the theft of personal infor inf mation - such as your name, Social Security number or Medicare number - to obtain medical care, purchase drugs or submit false claims to Medicare. The crime can damage a victim’s credit rating and even be life-threatening if it causes incorrect infor inf mation to appear in a victim’s personal medical records, warns the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service’s Office Of of the Inspector General (OIG). According to the study, while more Americans now understand just what medical identity theft is, few are taking the key steps that could help prevent it. Only 57 percent of survey respondents check their medical records for accuracy, and nearly near one in five (18 percent) say they don’t care about the accuracy of their medical records. “There are specific things that people can and should do to protect themselves from medical identity theft,” says Ken Chaplin, senior vice president of ProtectMyID. “People ha to be vigilant with their personal have inf mation and avoid letting their infor guard down, even with family and friends.”

50plus

Take these steps to protect yourself from medical ID theft

979.764.0009 764.0009

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

The Physicians Centre 3201 University Drive Ea East, Suite 140 Bryan, TX 77802

979.731.8446 446

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

www.tso.c www om

50plus The Eagle • theeagle.com

September 2012

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979-595-2800 Ex.2022 14

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The Eagle • theeagle.com

the Better Hearing Institute. Research shows that the use of hearing aids reduces the risk of income loss by 90 to 100 percent for those with milder hearing loss, and from 65 to 77 percent for those with severe to moderate hearing loss. Those with moderateto-severe hearing loss who use hearing aids are twice as likely to be employed as their peers who do not use hearing aids. And three out of four hearing aid users report improvements in their quality of life due to wearing hearing aids. The vast majority of people with hearing loss, in fact, could benefit from hearing aids. Today’s employers recognize the changing demographics of the modern aging workforce and increasingly are making ef rts to hold onto their effo older workers. Employers value the experience that mature employees bring to the job - along with the strong work ethic and other positive positi attributes of older workers. More and more companies, in fact, engage in workplace wellness programs to help keep their employees in good health. And hearing health including hearing checks - is increasingly included in these programs. “Never befor bef e has good hearing been so important - or so attainable,” says Dr. Sergei Kochkin, executive ecuti ecutive director of the Better Hearing Institute. “When people with even mild hearing loss use hearing aids, they improve their job perf mance, increase their perfor earning potential, enhance their communication skills, improve their professional and interpersonal relationships, and stave sta off of depression. “I urge anyone planning to stay in the workforce longer to take that first, most critical step to optimizing your hearing health and enhancing your chances for career success by taking a confidential, online hearing check at www.hearingcheck. org. It will help you determine if you may need a more thorough hearing test by a hearing health professional.”

September 2012

(ARA) - Let’s face it. The Great Recession put a kink in many Americans’ retirement plans. Combine that financial blow with the general uncertainty regarding Medicare and the future cost of priva pri te health insurance. As a result, more boomers are staying in the workforce longer. In fact, between 2006 and 2016 the number of older people in the workforce is expected to soar, soar according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Workers between the ages of 55 and 64 are expected to increase by 36.5 percent; the number of workers between 65 and 74 is expected to climb by 83.4 percent, and even the number of workers who are 75 and older is expected to grow by 84.3 percent. By 2016, the BLS says, workers age 65 and over are expected to make up 6.1 percent of the total labor force - a steep jump from their 3.6 percent share in 2006. So what does this mean for indi individuals? It means people need to do what they can to age productive oducti ly. It means oductive they need to take charge of their health - including their hearing health - so they can maximize their chances for success on the job. Along with maintaining a healthy lifestyle, it’s important that boomers routinely get their hearing checked - and that they address any hearing loss so it doesn’t undermine their ef rts on the job or their effo quality of life. Gone are the days of ignoring hearing difficulties dif . There are no more excuses. And give gi n the technological ad nces of modern hearing adva aids, and the compelling data that illustrate the downside of leaving lea hearing loss unaddressed, there’s only one reasonable course of action. Maturing workers should be getting their hearing checked. And if there is hearing loss, they should discuss with their hearing healthcare provider whether hearing aids could help. More than 34 million Americans suffer suf from hearing loss - about 11 percent of the U.S. population - and 60 percent of them are below retirement age, according to

50plus

Boomers benefit from hearing aids as they stay in workforce longer

50plus September 2012 The Eagle • theeagle.com

CALENDAR Ongoing Sit & Fit – Seniors meet at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, Tuesdays and Thursdays, from noon to 12:45 p.m. For more details, contact the 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 in College Station, of offers line dancing for seniors every Tuesday from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. and every Friday from 10 to 11 a.m. For more information, contact Southwood CommunityCenterat979-764-6351or College Station Parks and Recreation Department’s Senior Services at 979764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. Bluegrass Jam Session – A Bluegrass Jam Session is held from 1:30 to 3 p.m. every Tuesday at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Bring string instruments and a friend. All levels welcome. 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 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. every Thursday to play 42 at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road. 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.

Bible Study - Seniors gather at Lincoln Center, 1000 Eleanor, from 9:30 to 10 a.m. Thursdays for Bible study. For more information call 979764-3779 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or email awilliams@cstx.gov. Friday Bridge - Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, holds bridge for seniors from 9 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. Brazos Valley Community Band – Practices from 7 to 9 p.m. every Monday at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 220 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. For more information, call 865-414-8381 or 979-696-7682. Sept. 5 Computer Club For Seniors The Computer Club will meet from 9 to 10:30 a.m. to discuss “How to navigate the world of Google and its many apps.” The club is a way to meet other seniors and learn about the computers. Meetings are held at the Carter’s Creek Training Room, 2200 North Forest Parkway in College Station. Free and no pre-registration needed. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department’s Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Sept. 7 Game Day – Game Day will be held from noon to 3 p.m. on Sept. 7 and 21 at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in Collee Station. There will be a variety of games to choose from or bring your own. 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. Sept. 10 Computer 101 “Beginning Basic Computer Class” - Learn basic beginning computer skills in a small group (class limit is 5). Classes of offered at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station on Monday and Wednesday from 9 to 10:30 a.m. for three weeks. Cost is $60. To

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Sept. 11 Genealogy Class - Family history classes meet from 9 to 11:30 a.m. on Tuesdays, for seven sessions. Cost is $35. To register, visit rectrac.cstx. gov or contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department at 979-

764-3486 or visit the College Station Parks and Recreation Department at 1000 Krenek Tap Road. For more information call College Station Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or email mrodgers@cstx.gov. E-mail Class - Learn how to set up and manage an e-mail account in a two-day class at Southwood Community Center from 9 to 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday and Thursday. Cost is class is $45. To register visit rectrac. cstx.gov or contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department at 979-764-3486 or visit the College Station Parks and Recreation Department at 1000 Krenek Tap Road. For more information call College Station Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or email mrodgers@ cstx.gov. Senior World Passport Program on China - The A&M International OutreachProgramandCollegeStation Parks and Recreation Department’s Senior Services will teach about Chinese culture on Sept. 11 and 26. Texas A&M University is home to the Confucius Institute, an initiative from China to promote Chinese culture and education around the world. Program

TylerKearney,DPM BrianAbbey,DPM RobertAguilar,DPM EduardoOrihuela,DPM JulieAlbert,DPM

register, visit rectrac.cstx.gov or contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department at 979-7643486 or visit the College Station Parks and Recreation Department at 1000 Krenek Tap Road. For more information call College Station Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or email mrodgers@cstx.gov. Computer 102 “Intermediate Computer Class” - Held from 10:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays for three weeks, at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Cost is $60. To register, go to rectrac. cstx.gov or contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department at 979-764-3486 or visit College Station Parks and Recreation Department at 1000 Krenek Tap Road. For more information call College Station Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or email mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Are you in need of Bioidentical (natural)

Sept. 6 AARP Driver Safety Course will be held from 1 to 5 p.m. at The

Brazos Valley Foot Care has been providing quality caring service for over 30 Years. Our friendly, iendly caring, iendly, efficient staff is here to make your visits with us as convenient and pleasant as possible . Our medical co team te am believes in taking a systematic approach to your foot ot problems, starting with conservative treatment & providing surgical correction when needed.

Senior Circle, 1651 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Cost is $12 for AARP members or $14 for nonmembers. Certificate holders may be able to receive a discount off of their liability insurance premium. Call 979764-5107 to reserve.

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begins at 10 a . m . at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road. No pre-registration necessary. Refreshments served. 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. DisasterPreparednessclass-FortheSept. 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance, Brazos Valley RSVP will provide a Disaster Preparedness class based on FEMA’s FEMA “Are You Ready” campaign from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Brazos Valley Council of Governments, 3991 East 29th St. in Bryan. Those who complete the class and complete a family disaster plan will receive a free family first aid kit and the “Are You Ready” manual. To sign up, call 979-595-2800 x 2026 or email Rick Dysart at rdysart@bvcog.org.

Sept. 19 Exploring History Lunch/Lecture – Dr. John Adams will present a lecture,“Texas lecture,“T A&M Corps of Cadets History” at Aldersgate Church located, 2201 Earl Rudder Fwy S. Lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m., and lecture begins at noon. Reservation is necessary and the cost is $5 for the lunch. Reserve by Sept. 17 with Kelly Kelbly at 979-764-6351 or kkelbly@cstx.gov.

10 a.m. Visitors welcome. For more information contact 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. Sept. 25 Computer Tips Class - This two-day class designed for seniors offers of helpful tips and tricks on how to organize document and folders and teaches how to keep a computer running smoothly. Class meets on Tuesday and Thursday from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road. Cost is $45. To register, visit rectrac.cstx.gov or contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department at 979-764-3486 or visit the College Station Parks and Recreation Department at 1000 Krenek Tap Road. For more information call College Station Senior Services at 979-7646371 or email mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Sept. 17 Sept. 28 Matter of Balance - Free program offered of Bingo and Birthday Celebration – Sept. 20 to seniors who will learn practical strategies to Celebrate September birthdays with cake and reduce the fear of falling and increase activity Free Movie and Popcorn – Seniors are refreshments at Southwood Community Center levels. Exercises offered of to increase strength invited to enjoy a movie, “The Exotic Marigold at 1 p.m. All seniors are invited. At Home Health and balance. Meet with a trained facilitator Hotel” and popcorn at Southwood Community Care provides prizes for Bingo. Bring friends. on Mondays for eight weeks from 1 to 3 p.m. Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road. Movie starts For more information, contact Southwood at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock at 1 p.m. For more details, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or College Prairie Road. To register, contact College Community Center at 979-764-6351 or College Station Parks and Recreation Senior Services Station Parks and Recreation Department’s Station Parks and Recreation Department’s at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@ Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@ Lincoln Center Senior Birthday cstx.gov. cstx.gov. Celebration Pot Luck - September birthday Fit and Be Strong - This free eight-week celebration will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 program is designed to help improve daily p.m. at the Lincoln Center. Bring a dish to share. Sept. 24 activities using endurance, strength, flexibility For more information contact Lincoln Center at Senior Advisory Committee - Senior and balance exercises. The program is proven 979-764-3779 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or to alleviate arthritis symptoms and promote Advisory Committee meets at Southwood email awilliams@cstx.gov. healthy, active lifestyle. Class meets on Monday, Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road, at Wednesday and Friday from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at Southwood Voted “Favorite Nursing Home” in The Eagle Readers’ Choice 2012 Community Center, 1520 Voted “Best Memory Care Center” in The Brazos Valley 2011 Rock Prairie Road. To register, contact 979-7646371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. Sept. 18 Internet Class – Class - that teaches the basics of Internet, its usage and how to

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Sept. 13 Beginning Digital Photography Class Learn how to take better pictures with a digital camera on Thursdays, from 2 to 3 p.m., for four weeks. Class held at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Cost is $45. To register visit rectrac. cstx.gov or contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department at 979-764-3486 or visit the College Station Parks and Recreation Department, 1000 Krenek Tap Road. For more details, contact College Station Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. AARP Driver Safety Class - Will be

Sept. 14 Demo on how to make scented candles - Learn how to make scented candles from 1 to 3 p.m. with Anita Williams from G & Me. Class will be at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road. No pre-registration needed. Refreshments served. For more details, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-7646351 or College Station Parks and Recreation Department’ at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@ cstx.gov.

use various research tools – will be held from 9 to 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday and Thursday from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Southwood Community Center. Cost is $45. To register visit rectrac.cstx.gov or contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department at 979-764-3486 or visit the College Station Parks and Recreation Department at 1000 Krenek Tap Road. For more information, call College Station Senior Services at 979-7646371 or email mrodgers@cstx.gov.

September 2012

Sept. 12 Health Talk “Sexuality Later in Life” - Health talks are presented by Brazos County Health Department from 10 to 11 a.m. the second Wednesday of each month at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road. Refreshments served. 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.

held from 1 to 5 p.m. at St. Joseph Healthy Communities, 3030 East 29th St., Ste. 100 in Bryan. Cost is $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-members. Certificate holders may be able to receive a discount off of liability insurance premium. To register, call 979-731-1231.

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Continued from Page 16

“Meaningful Moments”

Your Local Experts in Dementia-Care provide this distinctive program designed to honor the individual life story of each resident while addressing their unique needs throughout the aging experience.

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50plus September 2012 The Eagle • theeagle.com

Stewart

from page pa 8 need it in a few years. Records needing extra care in storage Safety deposit boxes are good places to keep critical documents and back up electronic data. Items are safe and secure yet accessible when needed. A home safe is an option if it can protect your documents and electronic data from fire, water, ter gas leak explosions and ter, other disasters. Note: Never store your only copy of your will in your safety deposit box unless your loved one co-owns the box. Otherwise, your safety deposit box could be sealed when you pass away. That could leave lea your loved one or executor unable to obtain your will. Safety deposit boxes and secure home safes are appropriate for the following documents:. Birth certificates Social Security cards Passports Military discharge papers

Marriage certificates Di rce decrees Divo Qualified Domestic Relations Orders Wills and estate plans (see note above) Trusts Stock and bond certificates Real property deeds List of personal property Insurance policies Vehicle title documents Accessible Records For records that do not need to be in a safety deposit box, store them where they are safe from damage. Keep files from the last six to twelve months in a location you can easily access. If you feel you need to refer to the documents that are in offsite of storage such as a safety deposit box, keep a reference copy where you can reach it easily. Next month, I’ll review other kinds of records and how long to keep them.

Contac nt t Trac ntac Tracy acy B. Stewart, CP PFS, CPA, PFS CFF, CF CDFA, CDF CF through CFP® ug her blog at ugh www.Texas www.T .TexasDi exasDivorceFin eF ance. eFin com.

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September 2012

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You may be listening to music as you read this feature, or maybe you’re planning to download a new song selection you’re excited about. Whatever the tune, you may benefit in more ways than you expect. Listening to music can inspire you to stick with an exercise regimen. Music can also alleviate anxiety if you’re undergoing a medical procedure, reduce everyday stress and lighten a dar mood. dark Even people who are clinically depressed may be able to improve their mood by listening to their preferred music, according to Brenna Beecroft, board certified music therapist near Milwaukee, Wis. What’s really appealing is that you don’t have ha to limit yourself to a particular type of music. You can stick with your favo fa rite tunes or choose dif ent genres of music for differ dif ent situations. differ Take exercise, which can be tedious. Adding music may encourage you to keep moving. That’s the finding from a research study on the link between music and exercise adherence for overweight to moderately obese women at Fairleigh ir irleigh Dickinson Uni rsity, Unive rsity Teaneck, N.J. In a 24-week program on diet, exercise and healthy lifestyle, 41 women were di divided into two groups. Both groups walked for exercise, but half did so with music and half without. Although both lost weight, the music group lost significantly more weight and body fat, according to Christopher A. Capuano, Ph.D, who conducted the study. It didn’t matter what they listened to, although uptempo music inspired many of the participants, according to Capuano, Unive Uni rsity Provost. It was the distraction, not the tune itself that inspired the music group to push themselves. No wonder you see all those earbuds at the gym. “Music distracted them from the negative ti aspects of tive exercise – perspiring, having ha

to work out,” Capuano says. Music is also used by Alice Cash, Ph.D., to dive di rt peoples’ attention elsewhere. “My biggest focus is music during medical procedures to reduce pain and anxiety,” anxiety says the licensed clinical social worker and clinical musicologist, www. healingmusicenterprises.com. Again, music takes your mind away from the source of stress or discomfor discomf t. “When you’re waiting for a drill or needle, music helps your body release endorphins, a positive positi distraction. Your body has an ‘everything is going to be OK’ feeling, ” says Cash, Louisville, Ky. She recommends music appropriate to your needs. When you’re anxious and want to be comfor comf ted, try familiar music that has welcome associations. When you’re keyed up and need calming, Cash recommends classical music or slower jazz. In her music therapy work, Beecroft makes a distinction between comf ting and relaxing comfor music. Listening to the Beach Boys, for example, may be comf ting because you have comfor ha an emotional connection to the music. However, er you may also er, want music that relaxes you with about 60 to 70 beats per minute, the same as your resting heart rate. Pieces for strings and some for piano may provide the combination of pleasant and relaxing qualities, according to Beecroft. Also look for music that creates predictability. “Slow, no sudden changes in volume or speed. It doesn’t jar your attention,” Beecroft says. Whether you want music with lyrics or not may depend on your needs. “If you’re trying to incorporate other relaxing techniques, stay away from lyrics, which can be distracting,” she says. “But, if you’re in the dentist’s chair, air play a song air, you’re familiar with and sing along in your mind,” says Beecroft, author of “Music Listening for Relaxation” (Music 4 Life Music Therapy Services, 2011).

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September 2012

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