50 Plus, March 2013

A guide to good living in the Brazos Valley

Inside...

Spring recipe

Chef Diane Lestina creates braised cod dish Pg. 3

Finances

Hidden costs of parenting after divorce

Pg. 4

March 2013 • Vol. 7, Issue 3 • A monthly publication of the Bryan-College Station Eagle

Healthy dose of activity Local programs keep seniors busy PAGE 8

Memory decline can be caused by impaired sleep PAGE 2

Travel ideas for active seniors PAGE 12

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Sleep matters

The Eagle • theeagle.com

March 2013

Memory decline with age can be caused by impaired sleep

2

Snore a lot? Get up frequently at night to urinate?

Wake up at 2 a.m. with bright ideas or worries? All these disruptions of sleep are common and more so as we get older. Does it matter? Well, of course such awakenings disrupt our sleep, and maybe Dr. BiLL KLeMM it is just the memory meDiC incon nient. inconve But disrupted sleep not only is more likely with age, it may promote deterioration in mental functioning.

A recent study compared the effects ef of sleeping beha behavior in young adults and seniors. The study invo in lved assessing the memory after sleeping of 18 young adults in their 20s and 15 older adults in their 70s. The subjects were tested on 120 word sets bef e they went to bed, and befor an EEG machine monitored their brain activity acti while they slept. Upon awakening, they were tested once again on the word pairs, but this time they took the tests while undergoing functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scans.

The quality of deep sleep among the older adults was 75 percent lower than the younger ones, and their memory was significantly worse the next day−55 percent worse. The scans suggested deterioration of the frontal lobe. Shrunken brains can occur from aging and shrunken brains impair thinking and memory. But is it possible we have ha the cause and the effect ef backward?

Maybe what happens in the envir en onment, such as impaired sleeping, causes both the shrunken brain and the impaired memory. Or in other words, what causes older brains to shrink?

Scientists consider a decrease of about 2 percent shrinkage every 10 years

as normal. That may not be normal, just what most people experience because they are not taking care of their brains. There is abundant research that shows that exercises for both the brain and body help to reduce brain atrophy.

Of course, anything that damages neurons can reduce the number of their tree-like processes and the density of their contact points with other neurons. The list of such causes is long, including: alcohol abuse, brain inflammation, certain infections, concussion, impaired blood supply, lack of intellectual stimulus and vitamin B12 deficiency. It now appears that we should add fragmented sleep to the list.

Common natural causes of fragmented sleep in older humans are alcohol abuse and sleep apnea. Also, in males, enlarged prostate causes a need for frequent urination. As I have ha explained in my learning and memory blog posts (thankyoubrain. blogspot.com), learning events during the day are consolidated into lasting form during the sleep at night of the same day. We don’t know exactly how sleep helps, but obviously, you have ha far fewer mental distractions during sleep — unless, of course you keep waking up.

Alzheimer’s Disease also causes fragmented sleep.

So, it is no surprise that the brain degeneration by the disease would cause memory problems. But maybe, just maybe, it is the fragmented sleep that accelerates onset of Alzheimer’s disease. Now, this seemingly ridiculous possibility has to be taken seriously in light of new research showing that sleep-disordered breathing, as in sleep apnea, seems to increase the risk of mental

See Memory mor Medic mory pa 6 page

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CONTENTS Chef Diane: Braised cod recipe 3 Financial Literacy: Parenting costs after divorce 4 Bradway: Living with type II diabetes 5 Travel: Travel ideas for seniors 12

Cover photo: Senior Circle members Diana and Barry Stocks, Ann Marsh and Betty Trost pose with their tour guide, Marta, in front of a palace in Wurzburg, Germany during the group’s European Christmas Markets vacation in November. See page 8 for story on local programs that keep seniors active.

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Join.

Life is an adven Lif dv ture. Join the Circle. dven Senior Cir ircle is out to expand your horizons with an excit ex ing calendar of events sc scheduled around town and around the world. If you’re 50 or better, want to meet new w peo people, ple, lear learn n mor moree aabo bout yo your ur health, tr trav avel el and just have ha fun, then Senio ior Circle iss ffor you. Dues are just $15 a year. Cal alll Mandy ndyy W nd Wililliams today dayy at 979-764-5107 and become part of the Circle. da

4. Transfer fish to plates and stir basil and vinegar into the sauce. Spoon sauce over fish and serve. *Chif nade *Chiffo is a fancy word for thin ribbons.

Because basil tends to turn black after being cut, it’s the best way to cut it.

The first step is to stack your basil leave lea s into a neat pile. Place the largest leaf on the bottom of the stack Chef Diane Lestina’s recipe, Braised Cod with Peppers, Onand stack them ions and Tomatoes, can also be made with other types of fish. roughly according to size. Since your basil leave lea s will out of the way when cutting. Using ha a natural tendency to curl, have cur it is a sharp knife, slice the leave lea s across a good idea to place the leave lea s so that into thin, evenly sized strips. they are curling cur upward. This will make them easier to roll.

Diane Lestina, a certified pe personal Once your leave lea s are all nicely chef, ef, holds cooking in classes andd cooks for ing stacked, roll them up like a cigar. reside dents nt in the Brya Br n-College Stat St ion Hold the roll tightly so that it does not area. To learn more, re visit re, come undone, but keep your fingers

www hefd www.c he iane.com.

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Braised Cod with Peppers, Onions and Tomatoes Ingredients • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oli oil • 1 yellow bell pepper, pper cored and pper, thinly sliced • 1 small onion, halved and thinly sliced • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (can

use regular paprika, as well) • 1 teaspoon dried thyme • Salt and freshly ground black pepper • 2 cloves garlic minced • ½ can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained • ¼ cup dry white wine (or chicken stock) • 2 skinless cod fillets (6-7 ounces each) • 2 tablespoons fresh basil chiffo if nade* cut iffo • 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar Directions 1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add oil. When the oil is shimmering, add bell pepper, pper onion, paprika, thyme and ¼ pper, teaspoon salt and cook until softened (about 8 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds 2. Stir in tomatoes and wine, and ¼ teaspoon pepper and bring to a simmer.

3. Pat cod dry with paper towels and season with a little more salt and pepper. Nestle cod into the pan and spoon contents over the fish. Cover and cook on low heat until fish flakes, about 10 minutes per inch.

March 2013

Braising is a form of moist-heat cooking in which the item to be cooked is partially covered with liquid and then simmered at a low temperature. Often you will see meat cooked this way for a very long time in the oven, but the method also works well with fish and can be done on the stove top. The fish come out moist and full of flavo fla r from the braising liquid, which also doubles as Diane Lestina a sauce. I made Cook it Simple this with wildwww.ChefDiane.Com caught cod, but halibut or snapper would work as well.

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Braised fish recipe makes for moist, delicious meal

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Hidden costs of parenting after a divorce

Raising children is a costly endeavor. Add in the difficulties of co-parenting with an ex-spouse and the costs can go even higher.

Most parents will agree that raising children is expensive.

For divorcing parents, that may be the only thing they can agree on when it comes tracY stewart to sharing finanCial literaCy the costs of raising their children.

Child support judgments made at the date of divorce cannot predict the scores of variables that will crop up in a child’s life. Even for parents who are not splitting up, it is impossible to accurately foresee how much it will cost to raise children. For example, select sports teams and their growing costs did not exist 10 or so years ago.

One unhappily divorced Mom’s solution for insufficient child support is perhaps not uncommon, but it is not optimal. “He’ll just have to live with it then. I’ll tell the kids they have to ask Dad every time they want something.“ Making joint financial decisions Splitting couples would do well to learn how to navigate through the decision processes of post-divorce joint parenting. Who will pay for the special needs items, birthday parties, private school tuition, college-related expenses, extracurricular activities, latest technological innovation, singing lessons and tattoo removal?

Sam’s parents have been divorced for several years.

They have been fighting over child support ever since. As a part of the settlement, Mom and Dad agreed to share the cost and insurance of a car for Sam when he reached driving age. When Sam got his driver’s license, he hoped his parents would buy him a truck. But Dad offered to buy him a Nissan 300zx

twin turbo with woofers and tweeters in the trunk. Sam’s friends had cool vehicles and Dad was proud to be in the financial position to buy his son a type of car that he himself had never had. Dad didn’t ask Mom to pay for half the car, but he did want to stick with their divorce agreement that states that Mom pays for half the car insurance. While Mom had planned on paying for half of Sam’s vehicle insurance, she had not anticipated the higher cost of the insurance premium that comes with a teenaged boy driving a sports car. Additionally, she was horrified that her son would be driving such a dangerous car. She saw this as a car teenagers die in.

Not only is this a financial strain for her, but also a source of worry and an emotional disappointment.

Buying her own first car was a fond memory of her teenage years. When she started to drive, her parents spent time with her talking about cars, looking at cars on the weekends, explaining to her the pros and cons of each type of car and ultimately allowing her to make the final decision. This was her first major financial decision in life and she felt it was a big step toward growing up. Mom wanted to be a part of this right of passage experience for Sam. With these financial constraints and emotional concerns, Mom and Dad reached an impasse and shelved the car purchase.

Sam was deeply disappointed, but wouldn’t tell his parents because he loved them both.

Neutral third party mediates financial issues How can parents like Sam’s make mutual parenting decisions when they can’t even talk to each other? They can hire a parenting coordinator to help them resolve their child-related disagreements and avoid numerous trips back to court. The long-term objective is to reduce the conflict associated with their parenting communication and decision- making process.

Parenting coordination is a child-focused alternative dispute resolution process in which a mediation-trained and experienced mental health or legal professional helps parents resolve parenting disputes. These professionals have extensive practical experience with high conflict or litigating parents. This definition may sound touchy-feely, but in fact it is very effective in resolving concrete financial disputes over children’s expenses. This resource comes at a price that parents of moderate means can afford.

According to parenting coordinator, Faith Wilson, MA, LPC, “This is not therapy. It is meant to be short term and action packed.

We come in, get something done and move out.” If

the parents cannot come to a mutually agreeable resolution, the parenting coordinator can act as an arbitrator and make the decision for them. For busy divorced parents, this no nonsense approach is a plus.

It is fast, effective, and can get the couple to a resolution that works.

It is not uncommon for parents to return to court several times over the course of a child’s minority. This is expensive for the parents in time, legal fees and emotional stress. Through their interaction with the parenting coordinator, the parents learn skills for making future joint parenting and financial decisions.

This goes a long way toward reducing the chances that the parents will return to court over parenting issues,

whether financial, emotional or both.

Parenting coordinators can be appointed by judges or selected by attorneys. If you know a couple who could benefit from working with a parenting coordinator, tell them to contact me or a family law attorney for a referral.

Parenting after divorce can come with unexpected financial conflict. Learning how to communicate and make compromises with an ex-spouse can reduce the financial and emotional burden that comes with coparenting in two separate households.

Contact Tracy B. Stewart, CPA, PFS, CFF, CDFA, CFP® through her blog at www.

TexasDivorceFinance.com.

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I am a 55-year-old, ear ear-old, type II diabetic who is not active.

I’ve been dieting since I was 8 years ar old. So while it doesn’t ars look like I’m trying trying, ying, I fight and win food battles every da but it just takes one lost day, battle to put on the pounds.

I’m really getting discourag discouraged aged and overwhelmed. I read so much about what I need to do and what I shouldn’t do, do and often the infor inf mation is contradictory. dictor Can you dictory. provide simple instructions to get me started? Jerrod, Brya Br n

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March 2013

Jerrod, you are definitely not alone in your experiences.

There is a lot of infor inf mation out there and if you followed it all, you probably wouldn’t eat. Befor Bef e we talk about food though, you know you have ha to be more acti . As active someone once said, Leon BraDwaY Dw DwaY you can’t phySiCal therap herapy af rd affo not to exercise. Exercise is that important, not only for losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight but also for healthy aging. You want to remain independent as long as possible, so you must move. As we say in our clinic, “bodies in motion equals lifelong health.” We can make all kinds of excuses not to exercise. But if you look closely at the live li s of those who are healthy, you’ll notice they make exercise a priority; they don’t miss work outs; and they let others know this is a priority for them. Money and time shouldn’t be an excuse. Most people can walk outside, in the park, par in the mall, etc. I would encourage you to do some fast walking or walking that gets your heart rate into your target heart range for at least 30 minutes, preferably one hour (go to BVph BV ysicaltherapy.com for instructions on how to calculate heart rate). If you don’t have ha 30 to 60 minutes all at once, try to do 15-minute increments when you can.

Make sure to drink water bef e and after you walk so befor you don’t get dehydrated. Get into the habit of walking a certain time during the day,

every day. I run versus walk, but I make sure to do this at noon every day or in the morning. If for some reason, I miss either of these, I run at night, but I don’t miss my exercise “appointment.”

Make sure your program is something you can live li with, and commit yourself to putting your health first and taking time to exercise. You can’t affo af rd not to.

Regarding food, there is a lot of infor inf mation about what to eat, how to cook, what to use when cooking and so on. Since you are a type two diabetic you might be interested in Dr. Hyman’s and/or Dr. Weil’s work on eating healthy to avoid inflammation. If your sugar is not well controlled, you should speak to your doctor and a nutritionist. In general, you should watch the amount of carbohydrates (carbs) you consume at any one time, limiting those with a high glycemic index and preferably consuming protein and/or vegetables with carbs. All of this is to help slow down how fast the carbs enter your system, spiking your sugar.

As a diabetic, your body doesn’t process foods you eat ef efficientl y and thus you have ha to limit your consumption of certain carbs and the amount you consume at one time.

Diabetes is a chronic disease that will get worse over time if action isn’t taken. Most research today suggests that Americans should cut down on the amount of animal protein consumed. We need to use animal protein as a minor portion of our meals, not the center of them.

You might try eating more soy products such as tofu (marinate in your favo fa rite fla rs) and edamame for flavo your protein needs. Consider ha having two fish meals, two soy meals, for every animal protein meal. Regarding fat, most experts agree that olive oli and nut oils are good choices, but should be used sparingly.

We also need to eat more vegetables and fruits, trying to get a variety of colors every day. As a diabetic, though, eat more vegetables than fruit.

If you have ha high cholesterol,

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Healthy tips for living Come see how we’re changing the with type II diabetes foundation of senior living

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50plus March 2013 The Eagle • theeagle.com 6

Pain sufferers urged to get safe relief from pain physicians (BPT) - When a person is in pain, he or she will seek options to attempt to reduce or eliminate the pain. For minor pains like headaches, muscle aches and small wounds, often overthe-counter drugs can help reduce suf suffering.

But people with chronic pain may have ha to search for other solutions.

More than 100 million Americans suf suffer from chronic pain, at a cost of $600 billion a year in medical treatments and lost productivity oductivity, oductivity vity, according to a 2011 Institute of Medicine report. As of Jan. 1, 2013, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) started paying providers without formal training in pain medicine to diagnose and treat chronic pain.

The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) advises ad against receiving cei ceiving care from providers without training in treating chronic pain because patient safety can be seriously compromised. In addition to jeopardizing patient safety, safety untrained providers lower the quality of health care and can increase the risk for fraud and prescription drug

Memory Medic from page pa 2

decline and even dementia in older women.

Disrupted sleep may also accelerate normal aging. This is certainly true when the cause is sleep apnea, which raises blood pressure and increases the cardiovascular damage that high blood pressure causes. Blood clotting is promoted, increasing the likelihood of strokes.

Obesity and diabetes are often associated with sleep apnea, and it seems that sleep apnea not only results from obesity but can promote obesity and the diabetes that often accompanies obesity. Diabetes is toxic for nerve terminals. Similar neuropathy may also be occurring in their brain. Sleep apnea causes daytime sleepiness, and that it turn reduces attentive tenti ness and mental tentive activity, activity vity, which when sustained over many years reduces the mental stimulus and promotes atrophy of neuronal processes.

Obviously, blood oxygen drops during sleep apnea. Normally, blood is 94% to 98% saturated with oxygen.

But not breathing for 30 seconds or more during sleep causes oxygen level to drop to 80% or less. Any level below 90% oxygen level is dangerous, especially to the brain which demands nearly near 20% of all the body’s oxygen supply. The adult brain can only survive survi about four minutes once oxygen is completely cut off. of So it is entirely possible that the slipping memory we see in so many

abuse. Untrained providers lack the suf sufficient education and training needed to properly oper prescribe opioids, operly according to the White House Office Of of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP).

Clifton Phillips, 44, of Bowie, Md., has pain throughout his body. He suf suffers from osteoarthritis, migraine headaches, a herniated disc and a pinched nerve in his lower back, which causes discomfor discomf t and burning in his foot. For three years Phillips worked through the pain befor bef e he sought help from an orthopedic doctor who prescribed opioid pain medications for him. However, er er, Phillips soon became dependent upon the medication and suffer suf ed significant side effects ef .

Treatment of chronic pain is complex and can be associated with significant complications. This is due to the potential for severe side effects ef from some of the medications used to treat pain and the anatomy and delicate structure of the spine and nerves upon which many chronic pain interventions are perfor perf med.

Knowing that he couldn’t sustain a

successful lifestyle while taking the highly addictive addicti opioid meds, Phillips looked for alternative ti treatment tive options through his neurologist who referred him to a highly trained anesthesiologist pain medicine physician.

“I encourage others suffering suf from chronic pain to do your due diligence, research your options and don’t be afraid to ask questions about treatments,” Phillips says. “I feel safe knowing a physician who specializes in pain not only safely administers my pain treatments, but also is able to diagnose and work with me to develop a customized and effecti effective fective pain treatment plan.”

Specialized pain physicians ha the education and training to have accurately diagnose, evaluate and treat chronic pain patients using a comprehensive ehensi approach including ehensive medications and pain procedures.

Treatments can range from medical management, physical therapy and psychological therapy, py to py, interventional therapies and other alternative ti medical treatments. tive These therapies can be risky and

require the skill of anesthesiologists or other physicians who possess the training and knowledge to provide safe, competent and appropriate care.

These physicians complete a one-year multidisciplinary pain fellowship in addition to their post-doctoral training, according to ASA. A pain physician, like an anesthesiologist, is a patient’s best solution to finding a well-trained provider to treat chronic pain conditions, similar to what Phillips was experiencing.

Dr. John F. Dombrowski, an anesthesiologist pain medicine physician and executive ecuti director ecutive at the Washington Pain Center in Washington, D.C., began giving gi Phillips steroid injection therapy for a month. Today, Phillips is completely of opioid pain medications and off reports the burning in his foot subsided, making him a happier person.

“I look forward to being more spontaneous and enjoying my life. I believe with these treatments, this could become a reality,” ality he said. ality,” For more about pain treatment, visit physician-paincare.com.

elder is a warning sign of something elderly much more serious. But by the time the memory deficits show up, much of the damage has already been done. Prevention is the best hope.

second edition of his e-book, “Core “Cor Ideas in Neuroscience.” See http://

thank ubrain.com/neur thankyo ubr obook/index. htm.

Sources: Mander B. A., Mander, Rao, V., Brandon, B. L., Saletin, J. M., et al. (2013).

Prefrontal atrophy, disrupted NREM slow wa s and impaired wave hippocampaldependent memory in aging. Nature Neuroscience doi:10.1038/nn.3324 http://www. li strong.com/ live article/161959-whatare-the-causes-ofbrain-atrophy/ Yaffe, ff K., Laffa ffe, Laf n, A. M., Harrison, S. L. et al. (2011).

Sleep-disordered breathing, hyupoxia, and risk of mild cognitive gniti impairment gnitive and dementia in older women.

JAMA. 306 (6), 613619. doi:10.1001/ jama.2011.1115 For those who want to learn more mor about the brain, br Dr Klemm Dr. has just released the

The Most Important Thing in any Relationship of the

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By SHAUNA SHA LE LEWIS The Eagl Ea e

Bradway

from page pa 5

First

the home.

The home features several special items that the family has acquired, including Limoges pill boxes and a captain’s desk that came from a Dutch ship, Smith said. Sissy’s “pride and joy” is a Louis XV chair that she played in as a child.

Separate from the home is a casita, which is especially enjoyed by the couple’s grandchildren. It includes a Murphy bed that is pulled out of the wall.

Tickets Tickets for the house tour are $15.

They can be purchased the day of the event at each house in the tour or from members of The Woman’s Club.

Luncheon tickets are $15, and must be purchased by April 3. To buy house tour or luncheon tickets, contact club director Betty Davis Da at 979-822-5019 or email thewomansclubbcs@verizon. net. Luncheon tickets can also be obtained through Sandra Petty; call her at 979-775-2449.

glass, don’t microwave owa anything in owave plastic, don’t use Styrofoam of ofoam and look for the No. 1, 2 or 4 when consuming beverages out of plastic (these are considered safe, see the bottom of the bottle). My father-in-law gave ga me great advice ad years ago: He said grow it yourself; cook it yourself; and if it can stay on the shelf over a week, it can’t be good for you. In essence, I try to stay away from processed foods when possible.

Good luck with

your effo ef rts. Just writing about your frustration means you are motiva moti ted to change. Be kind to yourself and forgive rgi mistakes. You’ll be healthier rgive bef e you know it. Visit our befor website for additional resources,

bvphysicaltherapy.com.

Presbyterian yt Church Bryan, Texas

Sunday nda Church School - 9:20am nday Sunday nda Worship Services - 10:45am nday 1100 Carter Creek Pkwy • 979-823-8073 www cbryan.org www.fp

Leon Brad Br way is a phys ph ical therap erapist erap and director of the Sp Sports Back andd Pain Manage nagement Clinic. See www. nage www bvphys bvph physicalth therap erapy. apy.com.

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consider shiitake mushrooms, as they ha a substance that encourages the have body to use cholesterol. The key here is balance. Don’t go overboard on exercise or diet. Try to eat healthfully each time you eat. Try to eat at least every four hours and have ha protein and carbohydrates together. Limit your dairy animal protein and fats. In dairy, addition, consider organic or locally grown foods. I personally believe we must be careful with plastics and some canned foods that can leach chemicals (BPA, (BP PVC, etc) into our bodies. I personally store food in

his son, Wade Surovik now live li s in the home.

The home was designed and decorated mostly by Wade, whose love of antiques and auctions is shown throughout the home. It features “understated elegance,” Smith said.

Visitors feel welcome in the home, which – with openness between the kitchen and living li area – is great for entertaining. The home hosts several out-of-town Aggies on Texas A&M Unive Uni rsity home football game weekends.

Wood home Down the street from the Surovik home is the Wood home, which belongs to Woman’s Club member Sissy Wood and her husband, Pat Wood.

The home was built in 2006

by Darrell Bairrington, and has “intimate elegance,” Smith said.

She said visitors will want to look at the enclosed garden area and the beautiful front door befor bef e entering

March 2013

Three homes in well-known Bryan and College Station neighborhoods will be featured during The Woman’s Club’s 45th annual House and Garden Tour on April 10.

The Woman’s Club of BryanCollege Station will hold the House and Garden Tour from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. as a fundraiser for its local community outreach activities acti .A luncheon will also be held from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at The Woman’s Club building, 1200 Carter Creek Parkway in Bryan.

The theme will be “distinctive “distincti homes with a differ dif ent palette.”

Angela Smith, chairwoman of publicity for the event, said the theme is “carried out in the three uniquely elegant houses, with each of the delightful homes revealing the personalities and interests of the owners.”

The houses in the tour will

include the Stribling home, at 5306 Jupiter Hills in the Pebble Creek subdi subdivision in College Station. The other two homes are in the Traditions subdi subdivision in Bryan, which includes a priva pri te golf course and clubhouse.

They are the Surovik home, at 3231 Walnut Creek Court and the Wood home, at 3207 Walnut Creek Court.

Stribling home The Stribling home was built by Clay Kolby in 2010 for Linda and Danny Stribling, and was decorated by the couple’s youngest son, Michael Stribling. Michael is a Houston designer who was featured in 2008 in the HGTV show, “Design Star.”

Smith said the home features “bold elegance,” but it was built so that guests, including grandkids, can relax and enjoy their time there.

Surovik home The Surovik home was built by Marriott in 2008. It was originally built as a weekend home for owner, ner ner, Bob Surovik, who live li s in Abilene, but

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The Woman’s Club annual Home and Garden Tour April 10

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7

50plus

A healthy dose of

Local programs offer w to keep busy, vo

By STACY CANTU

March 2013

Special to The Eagle

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Senior Circle members dance the day away during a steam boat ride on Lake Conroe.

8

Senior Circle members Barbara Williams and Karen and Ralph Freeman stroll the catwalks high above the rain forest in Costa Rica.

A healthy dose of activity In later years, seniors can suffer from loneliness and social isolation, but local programs can help them stay socially active and cope with the changes that come with getting older.

Common issues that affect seniors include: loneliness from losing a spouse and friends; inability to manage regular activities; difficulty coping and accepting the physical changes of aging; frustration with ongoing medical problems and an increasing number of medications; social isolation as adult children become busy with their own lives; feeling inadequate from the inability to continue to work; and boredom from being retired and having a lack of routine activities, according to an article on www. medicinenet.com, “How can social issues affect the life and health of seniors?”

Dr. Theresa Quinn, a psychiatrist at Scott and White in College Station, who has a PhD in psychology, said it is not physically or emotionally healthy for seniors to be inactive. Social events and activities geared toward seniors give them something to look forward to and helps keep depression at bay. Quinn said that family members can help by taking seniors out, by visiting them and by keeping them informed about activities they can participate in.

“Most older adults are afraid to go places by themselves,” she said. “Their family can offer comfort by going along with them.”

Local senior programs Bryan and College Station have several programs to keep seniors busy, including the

Scott and White Helping Hands Volunteer Program, the St. Joseph Health System’s Gold Medallion Club and the College Station Medical Center’s Senior Circle program. In addition to these programs, the City of College Station offers a variety of recreational programs each month that are geared toward keeping seniors physically and socially active.

Senior volunteers of the Helping Hands program offer hands-on help at Scott and White clinics by helping direct patients to where they need to be, getting patient questions answered, serving coffee and by offering wheel chair assistance to and from vehicles, said Kendall Parker, Helping Hands director.

“Some adults feel like no one needs them any more. Well, we need them at Scott and White,” Parker said. “Being part of the Helping Hands program allows seniors to give back to the community; have a feeling of continued self-worth with the tremendous difference they are making through their service with our team members and patients; and allows them to have a commitment that they can look forward to versus just sitting at home and not being around others. Our seniors have so many experiences that they can share, and we can learn from. We consider them to be invaluable in our continued efforts for service enhancements.”

Arlene Griffin, the first senior to join the program, said, “All of the volunteers are so happy to be here and happy to be helping. Working with Kendall has been wonderful.”

Once the new Scott and White Hospital opens in August, the Helping Hands program will need more volunteers.

Additional opportunities, such as working in the gift shop and

helping out in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, will be added to the program. The new hospital will also offer a chapel, and Parker said she would like to find a few retired pastors to help with pastoral care, as well.Helping Hands volunteers are asked for a six-month commitment, and Parker would like them to volunteer at least four hours a week. For more information on Helping Hands, visit www.sw.org/volunteerservices/college-station.

Another program designed to keep seniors socially and physically active is the St. Joseph Health System’s Gold Medallion Club. Elizabeth Johnson, the Gold Medallion Club coordinator, said the club for ages 50 and older has more than 4,500 members.

“Our objective is to keep seniors active as long as they can be,” Johnson said. “Most seniors become secluded; they stay at home, and they don’t come out. What we do is really help them to become active.

And once they meet other seniors, they become even more active because they have someone to enjoy the activities with.”

Club activities include game days; movie theater trips that are usually followed by dinner; trips to nearby casinos; “meet and eats” at local restaurants; and “lunch and learn” sessions that offer education related to seniors.

“We also have a knitting group,” Johnson said. “They knit caps for the new babies born at the hospital among other projects.”

The Gold Medallion Club also takes two in-state trips a year and one international trip a year.

In addition, seniors have access to the St. Joseph Wellness Program, and are able to utilize the gym’s exercise

50plus

activity

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for seniors to enjoy each month.

Marci Rodgers, senior services coordinator for the College Station Parks and Recreation Department, said some of the Mary Bell and Rusty Farquhar participate in a recent 42 dominoes game hosted by the city city’s most popular programs of College Station. include activities that promote fitness, such as line dancing, Sit and Fit and Fit and Be Strong.

Pat Vanderboon “We have a weight room celebrates durand indoor gym at the Lincoln ing the city of Center, where many take College Station’s advantage of walking indoors.

Valentine’s Day We also have some faithful 42 Tea. and bridge players who meet every week at Southwood Community Center,” Rodgers said.

In addition, the monthly Exploring History Lunch Lectures always draws a crowd.

Seniors hear about “how it use to be” at Texas A&M University and in the Brazos Valley during this lecture.

Rodgers said the city of College Station has many willing sponsors in the senior healthcare business and community that provide support for many special events aimed toward seniors. These Rose Mattox, a events include dances, picnics, Helping Hands Senior Expo, Valentine’s Day volunteer, serves Tea, Casino Days, fashion shows and holiday parties. water and coffee to patients at “It is so important for our Scott and White community to provide a place Clinic in College for seniors to meet,” Rodgers said. “They develop friendships Station. and benefit from socializing with others. I think they enjoy meeting their friends and drinking a cup of coffee while playing cards or dominoes at Southwood Community Center or Lincoln Center. It gives them a reason to get up and out of the house each day.”

The Parks and Recreation Department has a monthly calendar planned for senior activities available on the city website. Visit http://cstx.gov/ index.aspx?page=717 for more information.

March 2013

equipment or take a water aerobics class. Instructors are on-hand at the gym to help ensure seniors are exercising properly.

For more information on the Gold Medallion Club, visit www.st-joseph.org/ GoldMedallionClub.

The College Station Medical Center’s Senior Circle program is another program aimed at enriching the lives of adults 50 and older. According to the program’s website, the mission of Senior Circle is to encourage the healthiest, most active lifestyle possible through meaningful education, wellness, health, volunteer opportunities and social activities at the hospital and throughout the community, while providing a forum for fellowship, valuable member-only discounts and privileges.

Members of Senior Circle enjoy exercise classes, holiday parties, volunteer opportunities and game days, among other activities. In addition, members have the opportunity to enjoy in-state and international trips.

Peggy Sessums, an active member of the program since 2008, said Senior Circle has something for everyone, and the most attended event the club offers is “Lunch with an Expert.” During this event, doctors discuss health issues, such as heart trouble and blood pleasure with the seniors.

“I wasn’t aware of Senior Circle until after my husband died,” Sessums said. “I do not have any children that live here, so the members of Senior Circle became like my family. I have nothing but wonderful things to say about Senior Circle.”

For more information on Senior Circle, visit www. seniorcircle.com.

The City of College Station also offers a variety of activities

9

50plus

Oldsters more likely to rise and shine with a smile

By Cecil Scaglione

The Eagle • theeagle.com

March 2013

Matur Life Mature Lif Features atur atures

Researchers have ha found a reason old folks are happier than young ‘uns.

It’s not just because they don’t ha to get up early have ear in the morning and go to work in the morning.

It’s because they do get up early ear the morning, even though they don’t ha to go to work. have Adding luster to the old adage that early ear risers have ha a leg up in being “healthy, wealthy and wise,” a Uni rsity of Toronto study suggests Unive old birds who shake their feathers loose early ear in the morning are happier and have ha a more positive positi and upbeat outlook than their late-night counterparts.

The results of the study, which logged the habits of a group of young adults aged 17 to 38 and a group of older adults ranging from 59 to 79, also revealed oldsters tend to be early ear birds while the younger populace numbers more night owls.

In sum, early ear risers, called “larks “lar ,” tend to be more cheery than “owls,” who sleep until the sun is high in the sky, according to Renee Bliss, who led the study.

Previous studies have ha suggested morning people have ha more stable

personalities and a greater sense of well-being while night-timers are more susceptible to depression and substance use and abuse.

For those of you who hoot and howl into the wee hours and sleep through the early ear hours of the day but would like to learn how to cuddle under the covers earlier ear and bounce out of bed with a sunnier outlook, Cathy Beggan, founder of Rise-NShine, LLC, a New Jersey based producer of an array of health and wellness products, offers of some quick tips.

First off, of avoid chocolate, red wine and coffee cof in the evening. They have ha been found to upset your system and disturb sleep patterns more than other foods.

You should also eat your final meal of the day three or four hours befor bef e bedtime. This allows your food to digest befor bef e lying down.

Now make sure you get enough sleep. Eight hours may be enough, more than enough, or not enough.

You have ha to establish your own norm.

It is important to go to bed and arise at the same times every day, advises ad Beggan.

Make your transition from night owl to morning person by getting some of your everyday tasks and

chores out of the way befor bef e going to bed.

Drink a glass of water when you get out of bed. Your body becomes dehydrated during the hours you’re sleeping and this lack of water is a cause of morning fatigue. A glass of water helps kick-start your body’s metabolism in the morning.

Then stretch and take some deep breaths to boost your blood circulation, the oxygen level in your blood, and your mental and physical energy.

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And, finally think positive positi .

Frowning over the problem you expect during the day only saps your energy and emotions.

If you’re religious, saying prayers bef e jumping into bed at night and befor right after rolling out of bed in the morning can brighten your outlook.

Also, befor bef e going to bed, you might write down some positive positi thoughts, memories or goals and read that when you awaken.

Happy thoughts make happy people, she said.

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By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features

An option to consider is direct sales, such as Avon. The hours are flexible, there’s a social component of hosting parties, and you can make a five- or six-figure salary depending on how much you work. The Direct Selling Association member directory lists companies you might find interesting.

And there’s part-time work.

This means money’s coming in on a flexible schedule.

You might consider continuing your current or old job for less money.

Your history and experience with the company are pluses in your favor. Or you can serve as a consultant or be a tutor or trainer for newcomers to the firm.

High on the grandparents list is free-lance work. The need for such services as bookkeeping and editing is on the rise, since employers are nervous to make full-time hires

in this job market. You can check www.flexjobs.com for short-term professional jobs.

If you’ve earned a teaching credential over the years, you might teach at a nearby community college or fill in for sick teachers at elementary schools.

If you’re handy with tools, you can earn a good wage as a handyman repairing lawn mowers or building fences, for example. If you own a sewing machine, there’s money to be made altering clothing or making custom-made attire.

You can always baby-sit pets while the owners are at work or just take animals for a walk for shut-in owners.

Don’t forget seasonal work. Tax time makes room for folks with accounting skills, nurseries need help with plants during spring, and there’s always a need for store staff during the Christmas shopping season.

Protect your passwords from hackers

By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features

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My wife chuckles when I refuse to ride my bicycle in traffic. I point out she’s never been knocked off a bicycle by passing vehicles.

I have. Twice. Each time by howling yahoos in pickup trucks.

She does, however, take identity theft seriously, because we’ve been victimized. If you haven’t been, you’re probably reacting like she does when she considers my bike-riding paranoia.

In our case, a thief made off with some mail containing checks meant to pay bills. Among the information the crooks netted were the numbers of our bank accounts and a couple of credit cards. We fortunately discovered the theft early and called our banks and creditors and creditcard issuers before any damage was done. But we still had to change all of our accounts and other information, including our online passwords.

And that’s something you should attend to, to strengthen your shield against ID thieves. Hackers using your password can break your bank and shred your economic and emotional life into tatters.

A major mistake is to have one easy-to-remember password for several functions – to get into your computer, log online, check your bank account, contact your credit card, buy from eBay, tap into Twitter, and multiple other uses.

It’s especially dangerous if it’s obvious, like your birth date or an old address.

While many experts warn against

Use your online search engine and With one strong password you this because of the possibility of theft, type “online password management” memorize, you can store all your you can get yourself an address book to shop for what’s available. other passwords on the Internet. And that you can store safely and easily only you can get to them. to log your different passwords for different functions.

Don’t try to U.S. News and World Report releases article on Best Nursing Homes, outsmart the thieves.

They’re way ahead of you. Just make your passwords as difficult as possible for them to guess and access.

Mix capital and lower-case letters with numbers. Using gibberish is much more protective than trying to stick with common-sense words as a basis.

Even spelling words backwards, using a combination of letters and numbers, offers more protection.

And change them regularly.

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March 2013

Boomers, it seems, are not the retiring type.

The percentage of workers older than 55 climbed past 40 percent in 2011, compared with less than 30 percent in 1993, according to a report by the Washington, D.C.-based Employee Benefit Research Institute.

Today’s soft and sparse job market doesn’t look too inviting to aging workers scrambling to stay in the labor force to keep paying their bills, stay active, or whatever reason.

But there are opportunities out there and Grandparents.com has compiled a list of the best jobs for seniors and how to get them. When you visit the website, type “jobs” in the search box.

There are several other online sites to scour. RetirementJobs.com

hosts an Age Friendly Employer Certification program that includes companies with management styles, flexible scheduling, and health-care benefits that tend to be seniorfriendly. Among companies that make the grade are Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, Starbucks, and Target.

Other job sites aimed at the post-retirement crowd include www.retireeworkforce.com, www.SeniorJobBank.org, www.

Workforce50.com and www.

Retiredbrains.com.

If you’re looking to a new career, get into an industry that’s growing, according to many experts feeding these online sites. Among the growing job markets, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, are nursing, retail sales, home-health aides, office clerks, food service, customer service, and truck driving.

50plus

Seniors have many options for second careers

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50plus

Travel ideas for active seniors

The Eagle • theeagle.com

March 2013

Metro Creati Cr ve Connection

12

Those who have ha said goodbye to the work-a-day grind now have ha many hours to settle down and relax.

People who have ha continually put off of vacations in lieu of work responsibilities may now have ha all the time they need to explore the world.

Traveling for seniors can be rewarding and relaxing.

Those with a substantial retirement nest egg have ha numerous destinations at their disposal.

Mature vacationers trave tra l more frequently and stay longer than any other age group. Travel ranks among the top leisure activities acti for men and women over 50, according to the Web site Suddenly Senior.

Seniors can find several tra l adva trave ad ntages at their disposal. Also, thanks to special senior discounts, tra l may be even more trave af rdable than first expected. affo While certain destinations are not always practical for certain age brackets, there are many places to which seniors can visit comfor comf tably and enjoy a wealth of memories.

• Theme parks: par Although theme parks par may seem carved out entirely for the ad nture-seekers, there adve are many other more placid acti activities that would appeal to those who prefer to keep their feet firmly on the ground rather than looping through the air on a rocket-propelled coaster. With animal preserves, water parks par , fine dining, and a bevy of hotels either in the park par or directly on the outskirts, theme parks par provide many activities acti for older trave tra lers. Although theme parks par require a lot of walking, many provide wheelchairs or motorized scooters for those who need to get off of of their feet. They also make a great option for seniors who will be trave tra ling with the entire family, including children.

• Beach resorts: Provided flying is medically safe, a beachside vacation can be the ideal trip for seniors looking for the utmost in relaxation.

For those who have ha passports, the possibilities are endless.

Those who prefer to remain on relative ti ly domestic soil tive can retreat to Puerto Rico,

south Florida, the Califor Calif nia coast, Hawaii, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

• Cruising: Cruising is a preferred vacation choice for the 50+ set because it of offers the conve con nience of an all-inclusive lusi package and lusive transportation all in one.

With the myriad activities acti of ed on board, cruises are offer a versatile vacation option for seniors. Also, there is no need to worry about trave tra ling far for meals and other entertainment options, as everything is self-contained on the cruise ship. For more acti seniors who enjoy the active daily getaway, excursions in ports of call can provide the variety desired.

• Guided tours: Seniors who want to experience a piece of history can sign up for tour packages backed by reputable companies.

The tours may invo in lve train or bus trave tra l, and various attractions will be visited. At the end of the tour individuals tour, indi can choose to extend the vacation by checking into a hotel nearby.

• RV trips: Another selfcontained vacation that is entirely up to the people tra ling is vacationing by trave recreational vehicle. Seniors can customize their routes depending on which areas they want to see. Companies like Cruise America RV enable people to rent an RV so they needn’t worry about the expense of buying one outright.

However, er should RV er, tra ling become addictive, trave addicti there always is the option of buying a camper later on. Setting an itinerary and then establishing the pace enables trave tra lers to tour the country or cross the border as desired. From beaches to national parks par , many areas of offer RV hook-up areas and amenities.

• Exotic tour: Seniors who were never able to affo af rd or spare the time for an extensi vacation may now extensive want to visit those exotic locations that have ha beckoned for years. Now could be the time to book a ticket for Europe and visit all of the cities that have ha made the history books. Those looking for even more adve ad nture can tra l to the South Pacific trave and explore tropical islands.

Others may want to go “down

under” and experience the rugged Outback or the culture of Australian city

centers.

With a bevy of free time and fewer restrictions

holding them back, seniors could be ready for the next great trave tra l adve ad nture.

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Bef e summer gets here, you Befor might want to get your annual skin-cancer screening from a dermatologist. Be on the lookout for any changes in moles or sores that do not heal.

With some planning and care you can prevent summer skin problems from the sun.

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or tightly woven fabrics like canva can s.

Men or women with thinning hair or bald scalp areas should apply sunscreen directly to scalp and hair part to prevent getting a burn with long-term damage.

Sunglasses are a must for summertime protection. People with diabetes are more at risk for cataracts, and sun exposure creates a bigger incidence of cataracts. When you wear dark dar glasses without UV protection your pupils dilate and allow more light, which is worse than no sunglasses at all. The color or tint of the lens is not as important as the UV protection it provides.

And the bigger the better because they will block more sun. Consider wrap-around glasses that protect the sides of your eyes and face.

Foods that may help protect your skin include hot green tea, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, and walnuts.

If you do end up with a sunburn, try cool baths, ice packs and hydrocortisone cream to reduce inflammation, and think aspirin or ibuprofen for pain relief, she said.

Oatmeal baths can help, or aloe vera cooled in the refrigerator and rubbed on gently. Drink lots of water to prevent dehydration.

March 2013

It’s never too early ear to prepare for summer especially for diabetics. summer, As research keeps uncovering more links between diabetes and cancer and since skin cancer is the cancer, most common cancer in this country and is on the rise, it pays to be prepared to make summertime safer and more fun, according to Roberta Kleinman, a registered nurse and certified diabetes educator.

Skin cancer is diagnosed more than that of lung, colon, breast and prostate combined. One in five Americans will develop it in their lifetime.

Basal-cell skin cancer is the most common and most curable.

The second-most common is squamous cell. The most lethal form is melanoma. Most are highly preventable and have ha a 98 percent recovery rate, she said.

It’s important to choose the proper sun screen, make-up, moisturizers, and tanning products.

Until recently, sun-screen SPF (sun protection factor) only measured UVB, which was the culprit that mainly caused sunburn and some forms of cancer.

More important is the UVA UV radiation that penetrates more deeply and causes long-term skin damage, wrinkles, brown spots, and aging as well as most skin cancers. It’s around all year long so people with diabetes should take special precautions.

Look for “Broad Spectrum” on sunscreen labels to protect against both UVA UV and UVB. Try to stick with an SPF of 30 or 45, especially if you plan a day outdoors.

A constant in the sun-screen debate is how often it should be applied. You should slap it on every two hours, and more often when you are in the water. Use at least an ounce – a liquor shot-glassful – each time. Cover all parts of your body not covered by clothing.

Another tip from Kleinman is to look for mineral-based sunscreens, or those that contain zinc oxide or micronized titanium dioxide. These products are friendlier to sensitive sensiti skin than chemical sunscreens.

Use lip balms with SPF. SPF Plain lip gloss will attract the sun and can cause burned lips.

Finally, wear clothing treated with a sun protector and a wide-brimmed hat. Hats should be made from straw

50plus

Diabetics should shun summer sun

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50plus March 2013

Making your home senior-friendly can also lower your bills (StatePoint) More seniors than ever befor bef e are choosing to stay in their homes as they age. According to a study by the AARP, AARP only five percent of Americans ages 65 and older live li in group quarters like nursing homes.

From narrow hallways to steep stairs, design elements in typical houses can make remaining at home dif difficult in our golden years. However, er er, basic upgrades, like handrails and ramps, can go a long way toward making homes safer for seniors. And there are other small senior-friendly changes that can even make homes more envir en onmentally friendly, which can help lower utility bills.

“The aging process can be gradual for some, however others can move quickly from independent living li to a cane to a walker,” er says Joyce er,” Polhamus, Chair of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Design for Aging Knowledge Community.

“Y don’t need to completely “You remodel your home; there are small things you can do now to make it more accessible as the aging process evolves, while also making it better for the envir en onment.”

The Eagle • theeagle.com

Automate to Conserve One of the best ways to help ensure senior safety is to have ha a

well-lit home. But it sometimes can be difficult dif to reach outlets and to remember to turn lights on and of as you move about your house. off Installing sensors, so lights go on and of automatically when you enter off and leave lea rooms, will cut back on electricity costs and ensure better visibility.

As we age, tasks that formerly er erly seemed simple, like watering plants, can be difficult dif and energyconsuming. Polhamus recommends setting automatic timers on sprinkler systems to eliminate the need to do this task yourself, while also helping to conserve water.

Update Appliances Emptying the dishwasher or putting a load of laundry in the washing machine, can put a strain on the body. Consider installing newer appliances designed to be more senior friendly.

With newer dishwasher and refrigerator models, you can open doors and drawers between hip and shoulder height, which won’t require reaching up or bending down. Additionally, replacing older appliances with newer, more energyef efficient appliances can help you reduce your carbon footprint.

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outside.

If electronic curtains aren’t an option, Polhamus recommends ensuring windows are properly oper sealed operly and considering shrubs or bushes outside to act as a buffer ff against wind ffer and cold air.

To find an architect who can help make your home greener and more comf table for seniors, visit http:// comfor architectfinder.aia.org.

With a few updates, you can live li in peace knowing your home is designed for aging.

Ongoing

Computer Class - Learn the basics of the Internet, its usage and how to use various search tools, on Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station.

Cost is $45. Learn how to set up and manage an e-mail account on Tuesday and Thursday from 10:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at Southwood Community Center. Cost of the e-mail is $45.

To register online, visit rectrac.cstx.gov or visit Stephen C. Beachy Central Park office, 1000 Krenek Tap Road. For more information call College Station Senior Services at 979-7646371 or 979-764-3486.

March 6

Computer Club for Seniors - The topic this month is presented by Larry Lippke speaking on “Communicating with family and friends using your computer.” The meetings are held at the Carter’s Creek Training Room, 2200 North Forest Parkway in College Station from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Free and no pre-registration needed.

For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx. gov.

Meditation - Free meditation class held the first Wednesday of every month, from 7:15 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Brazos Healing Center, 1804 Brothers Blvd., Suite D, in College Station. For

March 14

AARP driving course – Held from 1 to 5 p.m. at St. Joseph Education Annex, 3030 E. 29th St., Ste. 100, in Bryan. Call (979) 7311231 to register. Completion of the course may reduce the automobile liability insurance premium. Cost is $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-members.

March 18

A beginning Computer Class just for seniors - Learn basic beginning computer skills in a small group (class limit is 5) with instructor, Donna Ness. Classes offered of at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. The class meets on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 to 10:30 a.m. for two weeks. Cost for the class is $60.

To register online visit rectrac.cstx.gov or visit Stephen C. Beachy Central Park office, 1000 Krenek Tap Road. For more information call College Station Senior Services at 979-7646371 or 979-764-3486.

cstx.gov.

Exploring History Lunch and Lecture - The College Station Historic Preservation Committee and the College Station Parks and Recreation Department present monthly lectures with lunch on the history of the community. The speaker is Sunny Nash, award winning columnist, speaker and author of “Big Mama Didn’t Shop at Woolworths.” The monthly meetings are held at Aldersgate Church, 2201 Earl Rudder Freeway South. A reservation is necessary and the cost is $5. Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m. The speaker will begin at noon.

Make reservations by the Friday before; Call 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@cst.gov.

March 21

Movie and Popcorn “Argo” – Seniors are invited to enjoy a movie and popcorn at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Movie starts at 1 p.m. For more information, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-7646351 or College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

month to celebrate birthdays for that month with cake and bingo. Celebration held at 1 p.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Home Instead Senior Care will provide prizes for Bingo. For more details, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or College Station Parks and Recreation Senior Services at 979764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

March 27

Health Fair for seniors - Free health screening provided by Blinn nursing students will be available at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, from 9 a.m. to noon. Screenings available for high blood pressure, vision, hearing, diabetes, weight and height and osteoporosis. For more information, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or College Station Parks and Recreation Senior Services at 979764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

March 29

AARP driving class – Held from 1 to 5 p.m. at The Carriage Inn, 4235 Booneville Road in Bryan. Call 979-731-1300 to register.

Completion of the course may reduce the automobile liability insurance premium. Cost is $12 for AARP members and $14 for nonmembers.

Intermediate Computer Class just for seniors - Taught by Donna Ness at Southwood March 22 Bingo and Birthday Celebration - All Community Center, at 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. The class meets on Monday, seniors are invited the last Friday of each Wednesday and Thursday from 10:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. for two weeks. Cost is $60. To register online, 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 Balancing a Healthy Lifestyle to register in person. For more information, call Are you looking for ways to best manage your gluten free or diabetic College Station Senior living? Come to this informational series provided by Crestview Services at 979-764-6371 Home Health. Crestview Home Health will provide information or email mrodgers@cstx. answering these questions and many more. Q&A to follow. gov.

Join Us for Special March Events

at Waldenbrooke Estates

Wednesday, march 13th, 3:00 – 4:00 pm

March 20

Genealogy Computer Users Group - The group meets on the third Wednesday of the month at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, from 9:30 to 11 a.m. The group will be discussing “How to get through Family Tree Maker or your Favorite Genealogical Program.”

All are welcome.

For more information, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979764-6371 or mrodgers@

Open House What can Waldenbrooke Estates offer you and your family? Take a tour of Waldenbrooke Estates and let us show you the many benefits we offer. Bring this ad into Waldenbrooke Estates anytime in the month of March and draw from our Pot of Gold for savings!

tuesday, march 19th, 4:00 – 6:00 pm

MySelf Resources Have you ever had a question about who to use as a preferred vendor or needed personal document storage and weren’t sure where to go or who to ask? Join us for an informational presentation provided by Shannon Graff of MySelf Resources. Come hear how MySelf Resources can be your link to concierge services, preferred vendors, personal document storage and much more!

The Eagle • theeagle.com

March 5

more details, visit BrazosHealingCenter.com or 402-3595.

March 2013

Bridge - Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, of offers bridge for seniors Fridays from 9 a.m. to noon. For more information, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@ cstx.gov.

Line dancing - Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, holds 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 details, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-7646351 or College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Sit and Fit - Join other seniors at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, every Tuesday and Thursday from noon to 12:45 p.m. For more details, contact Southwood Community Center, 979-764-6351 or College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Bluegrass Jam Session – Held from 1:30 to 3 p.m. every Tuesday at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. All levels welcome, including beginners. Bring an instrument and a friend. For more details, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx. gov.

50plus

CALENDAR

Wednesday, march 27th, 2:00 – 3:00 pm

to rsvp for thEsE EvEnts, call ambEr or William at 866-708-5136

Independent Living 2410 Memorial Drive | Bryan, TX 77802 866-708-5136 | www.seniorlifestyle.com

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50plus March 2013 The Eagle • theeagle.com

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2505 East Villa Maria Road • Bryan, TX 77802 • ArborOaksatCrestview.com

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A N M RC H E A LT H Y L I V I N G C O M M U N I T Y