50 Plus

A guide to good living in the Brazos Valley

Inside...

Physical therapy

What to do about rotator cuff tears Pg. 4

Mental health

Why grief can be good

Pg. 9

August 2014 • Vol. 12, Issue 1 • A monthly publication of the Bryan-College Station Eagle

Local resources for brushing up on technology skills PAGE 6

50 Plus is a monthly publication of Bryan-College Station Communications Inc. 1729 Briarcrest Drive Bryan, Texas PUBLISHER Crystal DuPre

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Physical therapy: What to do about rotator cuff cuf tears Feature: Local resources for brushing up on technology skills Dealing with loss: Feeling grief can be good Health: COPD is dangerous disease

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Memory athlete gimmicks Tip 4: Story chains As we took our hour and a half drive to Houston, my granddaughter was practicing a school assignment of memorizing the names of the first 10 presidents. By the time we got there, she still had not done it. I told her a simple way to memorize such sequential lists, and showed her that she could have mastered the task in about 10 minutes. The solution is one of the oldest mnemonic devices: create imagebased story chains. The idea is to imagine an image for each item to be memorized and then link them in a story sequence.

As I mentioned for Tip 1, several thousand years ago, ancient Greek orators were noted for their ability to give hours-long speeches from memory.

After all there were no teleprompters then, nor even any practical way to write down a long speech. So how did they pull off such astonishing dr. BILL KLeMM feats? They invented a visual The MeMory MeDic imaging technique where thoughts were mentally captured as images in the mind’s eye because images are much easier to remember than words. They then placed these mental images sequentially in imagined story chains. Thus, they could give their speeches as if they were reading a list of bullet points, but it was all done in their visual imagination.

This approach works because the human brain is wired to construct and remember stories. If you have any doubt, just think of the popularity of the movies, TV dramas and novels (some 100,000 in English each year).

Here is a practical example that should interest school teachers and students. Suppose you wanted to memorize the organelles of a cell.

The picture (above) shows an icon image representation for each major cell component. The table (far right) shows how each icon can represent the name and function of each organelle as well as shows how the images can be linked in a story chain. You might, for example, mentally represent the nucleus as a nuclear reactor. Then, for the Golgi apparatus, you might picture a sound-alike, “gold.”

And so on. The images provide cues that capture some of the function of the organelle as well as just helping to remember its name.

Note that the sequence could be changed. The icons are put in whatever order needed to facilitate a story. If it is necessary to keep track of serial order, as in a list of U.S. presidents, for example, this may affect your choice of icons and it may take a little more imagination to create a story chain.

One thing that I have noticed about story chains is that a lot is remembered just from the process of selecting images and constructing the story. After all, thinking about a subject is a most powerful

Inherited IRAs and bankruptcy: When is an IRA not an IRA?

If you have an inherited IRA or think you might be leaving your IRA to your heirs, this article is for you.

The Bankruptcy Code excludes retirement investments from a bankruptcy estate as long as those investments are held in accounts that are exempt from taxation. However, on June 12 in a unanimous decision upholding a decision of the Seventh Circuit Court, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that funds in an inherited IRA were not retirement funds exempt from a debtor’s bankruptcy estate, TraCy STewarT because inherited IRAs do not FiNaNcial liTeracy operate like retirement accounts.

According to local estate planning and collaborative law attorney, Shane Stibora, “you work hard for your assets and you want those assets T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

to be used to help your children and grandchildren, not used to pay off a creditor in bankruptcy. This Supreme Court case adds yet another complication in working to protect your assets.”

It boils down to the opinion that inherited IRAs are “a pot of money that can be freely used for current consumption … not funds objectively set aside for one’s retirement” (quoting the Seventh Circuit Court). The Supreme Court cited three main points why an inherited IRA is not a “real” IRA. 1. As an owner of an inherited IRA, you cannot make additional contributions to this IRA. 2. You must take required distributions from your inherited IRA regardless of how close or how far you

way to remember it. Another thing is that, as with all imaging representations, the imagination is developed and it becomes easier to come up with creative solutions that you can apply to other memory tasks. Children can probably do this better than adults.

Finally, story chains are applicable to many memory challenges. You can use them for such tasks as speeches, lists, a sequence of instructions or directions, or names of people in a group. And making up such stories can be fun.

Bill Klemm is author of two books on improving memory, Memory Power 101 and Better Grades, Less Effort. His blog is at thankyoubrain.blogspot.com.

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What to do about rotator cuff tears

I’m a 52 year old and try to stay active with walking, low impact aerobics and gardening. Two months ago I was potting plants, tripped and landed on my left side and shoulder. The pain was awful, and I couldn’t raise my arm, so I went to my family doctor, who referred me to an orthopedist.

They did an MRI and said that I had a medium size rotator cuff tear. My question is do I have to have surgery? I really don’t want to Leon Bradway Physical TheraPy have surgery of any kind unless that is my only option. If I decide not to have surgery, will the tear heal itself or get worse? G.W., College Station

Penalties

from page 3 are from retirement.

3. You are not subject to any agerelated penalties for withdrawals from this IRA. The Supreme Court rejected the debtor’s argument that the account was originally a retirement account and should retain that status even after inheritance, stating that the account was set up by an entirely different person.

You may think that being an upstanding citizen you will never be bankrupt. Let’s look at the top five causes of bankruptcy.

1. Medical expenses. According to a Harvard University study, medical expenses are the cause of 62 percent of all bankruptcies. Interestingly, 78 percent of these bankruptcy filers had some kind of health insurance. Serious diseases or injuries can easily mount up hundreds of thousands of dollars of medical bills, thus wiping out savings and retirement. Stibora adds that “in a situation where one of your heirs is likely to face a medical bankruptcy, it may be prudent to adjust your estate plan and not distribute any portion of a retirement account to that heir.”

2. Job loss. The loss of income can be devastating. Not having a sufficient emergency fund can exasperate the

4 | August 5, 2014

This is a great question and one I’m happy to answer. I would also recommend that if you haven’t already done so, talk to your doctor about your concerns and questions, and if you still feel uncertain, obtain a second opinion.

I understand your concerns about surgery. It is always best to look for more conservative treatments first, if possible, considering your injury.

Let me give you a brief background on rotator cuff muscles and their importance in shoulder movement.

There are four muscles that make up the rotator cuff. These muscles are supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor and subscapularis.

The goal of these muscles is to elevate, rotate, depress and help center the shoulder joint and movements.

problem. Loss of income is not the only problem. The loss of health insurance coverage can drain family resources.

3. Poor or excess use of credit.

Those who do not control their spending are more likely to land in bankruptcy court. Payments on credit cards, installment debt, vehicle loans and the like can spiral out of control when you eventually cannot even make the minimum payments.

4. Divorce. Splitting up creates a huge financial strain on both spouses.

The legal fees can be large. Child support and spousal support payments can inhibit the ability to pay the rest of living expenses.

5. Unexpected expenses. Theft or casualty such as earthquakes, floods or tornadoes can devastate a property owner who is not insured. Many homeowners do not realize they need to have separate coverage for certain events like earthquakes. They can lose their homes plus all contents, including wardrobes required to retain their jobs.

What does this mean to you? If you declare bankruptcy while you still own an inherited IRA, those funds will not be protected under federal law. Your chances of getting any protection from creditors for those funds (whether inside or outside of bankruptcy) will now depend on the laws of the state in which you reside.

However, if you inherit an IRA from your deceased spouse and you are the

The rotator cuff muscles attach to the shoulder joint capsule to form a strong, tight capsule. When the shoulder joint capsule has a medium tear, slightly more motion occurs within the capsule itself, which can create pain and inflammation and decrease the patient’s ability to move the shoulder, limiting your ability to do daily activities. As one ages, there is a greater chance of having a rotator cuff tear. In fact for those 60 to 80 years old, the likelihood is 55 percent. Many tears start deep in the shoulder joint capsule at or near the site of the muscle tendon attachment.

Can you have a small or medium tear and not have to have surgery?

Yes. Can a tear heal by itself ? Yes. Can a tear get worse? Yes. Rotator cuff tears are graded as small, medium and

large, which is dependent on the size of the tear. In most cases, non-operative treatment is recommended initially, unless it is a large tear, there is a lot of instability or the patient is unable to participate in the treatment options.

Some of these options include physical therapy (exercise, ultrasound, dry needling and other manual therapies), oral and injected medications, biologic augmentation, ultrasound therapy and dry needling. Many times, the nonoperative approach works well and can help within two to three months.

When the rotator cuff is completely torn, surgery must be done to reattach the tendon to the bone. As noted, non-operative, conservative treatment

See Conservative treatment page 5

in your life or the life of any of your sole beneficiary, you are generally heirs. You must consider the possibility entitled to treat that inherited IRA of a bankruptcy for your heirs in your as your own. You need to make an estate planning and develop a plan to affirmative election or contribute to protect your assets.” the account to do so. When you do, the IRA will not be considered an inherited IRA for the purposes of bankruptcy.

Contact Tracy B. Stewart, CPA, PFS, The case ruled by the Supreme Court CFF, CDFA, CFP® through her blog at involved an IRA inherited by the www.TexasDivorceFinance.com. deceased owner’s daughter, not a spouse.

Keep all of this in mind when you are naming the beneficiaries of your own IRA – especially if you are Life at H Lif Hud udson C udso Cre reek off offer erss tthes er hese thinking about naming amenitie itie itie iess ffor or onee month m thly fee: someone other than • Lice Licens nsed ed nu nurs rsee on on site site 24 ho hour urss a day day your spouse as your • Specially trained staff beneficiary. If you • A ffully supe su rvised, activities program are concerned about • Regularly scheduled social events protecting your heirs • Nutritious meals,, ffurnished linens and routine housekee ek ping ekee from creditors, consider • Beautifully landscaped secured courtyard with walking areas naming a spendthrift • Individualized service plans • Electronically monitored security system trust as your IRA • Support groups ou , educational programs and referral services oups beneficiary. However, be careful to consult a At Hu Hudso dson dso nC Cre reek we spe specializ cializee in cializ in A Alz lzheimer and lzhe qualified professional Dementi Demen tia ti a ccar are, and we pr are, pride ide ou ours rsel rs elve elve vess in pro pro rovid viding vidin ing first, because going outstand outst standin andin ingg ccar aree in a w ar war arm ar m hom omel elike envir elik environ nvironmen ment. t. this route can have significant legal and income tax implications.

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Conservative treatment from page pa 4

for a rotator cuff cuf tear is the best initial approach,

in most other cases. This consists of abatement of pain and inflammation, shoulder protection and physical therapy (with various manual therapies and modalities used). An experienced physical therapist will work to eliminate pain and inflammation, determine if and where muscular imbalances exist and correct postural guarding. They will work with you to regain shoulder range of motion and go over home safety precautions. They will also show you how to protect the shoulder once you have ha healed, as the instances of repeated tears are high.

The bottom line is that a rotator cuff cuf tear identified as a small or medium tear can be rehabilitated through physical therapy with very good functional outcomes where the tear will heal by itself. However, er there are instances er, where surgery may be required if the injury is not responding well to therapies. So my advice ad is to work with your doctor and visit with a physical therapist in an effo ef rt to avoid surgery. If conservative approaches aren’t successful, surgery may be the only option.

If you are worried about surgery, ery discuss your ery, concerns with the surgeon, who can explain the process, discuss the risks and explain why it is necessary. This should help alleviate some of your concerns about surgery. You will be referred to a physical therapist following surgery in order to regain maximum strength and range of motion.

This can be a slow process, as they must take you slowly through stages as you heal (three to four months), but it is essential for full recovery that you follow the instructions of your physical therapist

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Leon Brad Br way is a doctor of phys ph ical therap erapy erap apy and director of the Sp Sports, Back andd Pain Manage na ment Clinic. nage See www.b www.bvphy hysicaltherap erapy. erap apy.com.

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Never too late to learn Bryan-College Station resources for brushing up on technology skills

By HOLLI L. KOSTER Special to The Eagl Ea e

Technology is everywhere, and an increasing number of seniors report they are going online, with a majority of older Internet users going online on a daily basis, according to research.

According to a 2014 Pew Research Center study, most seniors who become Internet users make visiting the digital world a regular occurrence, with more than 70 percent going online every day or almost every day. The report indicated an additional 11 percent go online three to five times per week.

While the study also indicates that seniors are generally slower to adapt to technology than their younger counterparts, basic computer introductory courses and other local resources abound for seniors looking to get online – whether simply to connect with family and friends, to conduct Internet research or even to re-enter the workforce.

Getting comfor comf table behind the screen “An introductory class give gi s seniors a little bit of selfconfidence when using the computer,” computer said Mary Fran Troy. Troy instructs free introductory computer classes at the Larry J. Ringer and Clara B. Mounce Public Libraries in College Station and Bryan.

Troy said experience levels of students in the free course vary widely.

“Some have ha never touched a computer,” computer Troy said, “and some lack typing skills. Some are interested in returning to the job force.”

Troy’s classes begin with a basic introduction to computers and then move on to guide participants through the use of Internet and e-mail and basic instruction in Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel.

Library classes are held at 9:30 a.m. Fridays at Ringer Library and at 10:15 a.m. Thursdays at Mounce. Seniors can also find one-on-one help from 7 to 8 p.m. Mondays at Ringer Library.

For more infor inf mation on library computer classes, contact Mounce Library at 979-209-5600 or Ringer Library at 979-764-3416 or visit the library website, www. bcslibrary.org.

Brazos Valley Center for Independent Living, Li an organization providing services to individuals indi with disabilities, their families and the community, community also offers of

6 | August 5, 2014

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a free basic computer class at 10 a.m. Wednesdays in August.

Program Manager Pat Morse said basic computer classes can cover topics ranging from “what is a mouse?” to “how to use search engines,” and “how to find free music, free art clips and free calendars and forms.”

The center will offer of an intermediate skill level class for individuals indi who request a one-to-one session with an independent living li facilitator, tor for accommodation of needs tor, or training on use of assistive assisti technology.

For more infor inf mation or to RSVP, VP contact BVCIL at 979VP, 776-5505 ext. 2 or visit bvcil.org.

Building on the foundation Troy said individuals indi who have ha started an introductory course to computers might then consider moving on to courses offer of ed by the city of College Station, in order to move to the next level.

The city of College Station has free courses beginning in the fall, from 9 to 10 a.m. Aug. 11, Sept. 15, Oct. 13 and Nov. 13 at Southwood Community Center, Center at 1600 Rock Prairie Road. Class sizes are limited and require registration at 979-764-6371.

The city’s Computer Club for Seniors also covers a variety of topics each month, including “What is New with Printers?” Aug. 6; “How to Set Up a Website” Sept.

3; “Security on the Internet” Oct. 1; “What is New in Computer Retail” Nov. 5; and “Troubleshooting – Q&A” Dec. 3. Meetings are held from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the Carter’s Creek Training Room, at 2200 North Forest Parkway. For a schedule, contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-7646371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Fee-based courses move participants from beginning to intermediate level computer skills, from basic computer skills and how to use the Internet and e-mail to functions, formatting documents, use of picture tools, printers and more.

“I see many seniors in class who might have ha receive cei d ceive a new computer – maybe it’s an older version that their children gave ga them – and they are interested in communicating with family online,” said Donna Ness, computer instructor for the city.

Many participants in the class begin at a low skill level, and some have ha never had access to a computer, computer said Ness. Others come from the workforce, seeking to learn

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additional computer skills.

The city’s Beginning Computer courses run from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Aug. 18 and 27, Sept. 22 and Oct. 1, Oct. 20 and 29, Nov. 10 and 19 and Dec. 8 and 17 at Southwood Community Center.

Intermediate Computer classes for seniors who already possess basic computer skills are held 10:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at Southwood Community Center on the same dates. The fee-based computer classes are $45. For more inf mation or to register for a specific class, call 979-764infor 6371 or e-mail mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Developing computer skills to adva ad nce your career Workforce Solutions Brazos Valley offers of a variety of resources for seniors who might require assistance beyond their own self-directed job search, according to Gaylen Lang, project director for the workforce center.

“Job seekers can attend classes on resume writing and interviewing skills, and we have ha a job club and groups for networking,” or orking,” said Lang.

Some job seekers who might require additional training in order to find work may also qualify for the federal Workforce Inve In stment Act (WIA), which offers of a comprehensive ehensi range of workforce development for ehensive indi individuals who meet a variety of criteria.

Lang says WIA funds can sometimes address shortterm training needs, such as an Excel or Microsoft class and can assist with payment for up to two years of training for work opportunities available in the Brazos Valley area.

Independent of WIA assistance, Workforce Solutions also offers of two classes to assist seniors with Work in Texas, the jobs database for Texas Workforce Commission.

Lang said employees in the Workforce Solutions resource center also will review seniors’ resumes to help them improve their chances of obtaining work, as well as refer them to computer classes in the community to help them boost technology skills.

Workforce Solutions holds its Job Club classes at 9 a.m. and free computer literacy classes at 1 p.m. Mondays.

Resume Writing is at 1 p.m. on Wednesdays and Fridays and Work in Texas orientation is at 9 a.m. Fridays. All classes are held at Brazos Valley Council of Governments, located at 3991 E. 29th Street in Bryan.

For more infor inf mation, call Workforce Solutions at 979595-2800.

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Social media no longer just child’s play Metro Creati Cr ve Connection

The Internet and related technologies have ha been a gamechanger for people of all ages. The instant connectivity connecti made possible by these adva ad ncements has been valued by young adults and children for years. But now social media is attracting an entirely differ dif ent demographic -- seniors.

More than just a method of channeling infor inf mation to the comf t of home, the Internet and comfor the various social media platfor tf ms, tfor including Twitter, Twitter Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram, are ways for older adults to stay connected with friends and family. For seniors faced with mobility issues, social media helps bring the world to them.

Despite the stereotype that seniors do not want to learn to use new technology, gy many seniors are gy, getting on board. Findings from the Pew Research Institute show that social networking or orking use among Internet users ages 50 to 64 grew by 88 percent between April 2009 and May 2010.

The research also found that the percentage of those 65 and older using social media grew from 13 percent to 26 percent during that same stretch.

Although young adults continue to be the primary users of social media, older users are gaining momentum and surpassing youth in the number of new users.

Indi Individuals who are not yet utilizing social media to manage their communication effo ef rts may be inspired by these benefits to doing so.

• Photo and video sharing: The majority of photos being taken today are digital, as fewer people are making prints of their photos.

Rather, ther they are being shared via ther, e-mail or through social media sites. Grandparents can see their grandchildren in photos in real time.

Also, if they’ve managed apps that enable video sharing, they can view and chat with relative ti s who live tive li miles away, ay just as if they were sitting ay, across the table.

• Conve Con rsations with family: In a world where families are no longer centrally located, communication may be lacking. Despite the prevalence

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of mobile phones, fewer and fewer people seem to pick up the phone and make calls as they once did. Instead, they’re texting and updating social media posts. They’re also e-mailing one another. Older adults who have ha no access to this technology could be left out of the mix. This is a way for seniors to stay close to family.

• Conve Con nient check-ins: At times when a full-blown conve con rsation may not be practical, having ha a quick method to check in with a loved one can make social media adva ad ntageous.

People can send a quick text to their parents to find out how they’re feeling or if they need anything. Such ready access can provide some peace of mind to adults concerned about their elder parents. elderly • Online shopping: Seniors who don’t get out much or who cannot safely drive dri a vehicle might not be able to shop as often as they would like. Having Ha Internet access and experience with browsing websites enables older men and women to shop from reputable websites who ship items directly to the house. With the vast array of items now sold online, anyone can have ha their choice of items and not be forced to settle because of their age.

• Improved feelings of wellbeing: Avoiding feelings of isolation and loneliness can benefit older men and women. A study by Dr. Shelia Cotten, a sociologist and associate professor from the Unive Uni rsity of Alabama, Birmingham, revealed that Internet use was associated with a 30 percent decrease in depressive essi essive symptoms among older adults who used it regularly gularly, gularly ly, while other studies ha shown similarly have similar impressive essi essive results.

• Working the mind: Going online, chatting on social media or simply writing an e-mail works areas of the brain. Typing also helps improve manual dexterity. These factors can be beneficial for seniors looking to stay sharp.

Using the Internet for communication is a growing trend among the 50-plus demographic. It enables them to stay connected with family and the world in several ways.

August 5, 2014 | 7

Senior Circle is out to expand your horizons with an exciting calendar of events scheduled better want to meet new people, learn around town and around the world. If you’re 50 or better, more about your health, travel and just have fun, then Senior Circle is for you. Dues are just $15 a year. To join or for more information, call Mandy Williams at 979-764-5107 or visit CSMedCenter.com. Become part of the Circle.

Come play with someone your own age!

Trains, Wineries and Treasures of Northern California April 13-21, 2015 Tour California! From the historical Gold Rush to the awe-inspiring wilderness of Yosemite National Park, experience the countless hidden treasures among the most popular cities of Northern California. The tour begins in San Francisco where we will explore the beautiful “City by the Bay”, which highlights the famous cable cars, extensive Golden Gate Bridge, and the view from Twin Peaks. The guided adventure will take you through the historic Gold Rush towns including Sonora and Sacramento with an opportunity to visit the California State Railroad Museum and unique shops along the way. Then, experience the popular vineyards of Sonoma and Napa. Sonoma County is home to one of California’s most fertile wine-growing regions.

The elegant Napa Valley Wine Train encourages you to relax and enjoy the luxurious atmosphere combined with famous vineyard scenery. To learn more about this scenic adventure, please call the Senior Circle office at 979-764-5107 for a travel brochure.

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Feeling grief can be good for you

“Good grief !”

The first time I remember hearing this phrase was from the Charlie Brown Christmas Special on TV when I was a child. Another unforeseen trial had befallen Peanuts’ character Charlie Brown. Things hadn’t turned out like he’d expected. He’d been misunderstood again.

“Good grief !”

As a child, I remember thinking, “This grief thing, whatever it is, sure doesn’t look or sound good.”

No, it sure doesn’t.

Loss is a huge part of life. It’s not a question of whether we’re going to lose someone or something, but who, what and when.

When we think of grief, our minds typically go to the death Gary roe hosPice of a loved one. To say this can be hard is a gross understatement. The death of someone close to you can be painful, traumatic or even paralyzing. The grief that assaults us certainly doesn’t feel “good.”

And death isn’t the only loss we encounter. We can experience grief as a result of many things: friends and family moving away, relationship estrangements, divorce, abuse, neglect, limiting or debilitating health issues, job termination, shattered dreams and unmet expectations. The list goes on and on.

These losses impact us greatly. They hurt. Most of us try to go around them and ignore the pain, hoping it will go away. We say things like, “That’s life,” “I’m fine” and “Life goes on.”

Yes, life does go on, but our lives have been changed forever by that loss. Sometimes it feels like part of our heart has been torn away. Perhaps we feel lost and don’t know what to do.

Some losses are so devastating we can’t seem to wrap our minds and emotions around our new reality.

Our first instinct may be to run or to hide. Perhaps we want to withdraw and isolate, like an animal when it’s severely wounded. Maybe we’re frightened by the intensity of our feelings. We try to stay busy. We attempt to not think about it, or the person, too much. We valiantly say we T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

need to be strong for such-and-such reason or for so-and-so’s sake.

The nature of grief is that, if we try to avoid it, it will follow us. If we attempt to stuff our pain, it will only leak out anyway, usually in ways that are less than healthy. Unprocessed grief can lead to anxiety, depression, addictions and a myriad of physical and mental health concerns. Our fear of facing the pain can keep us from healing and growing.

Loss is real, and the grief that comes with it is natural. Our losses matter. We’re meant to feel them.

Life can be a tough battle at times, and learning to grieve well can be a powerful weapon in our arsenal. Grief is designed to be a friend that helps us overcome obstacles.

In other words, grief can be good.

My father died suddenly when I was 15. It was just the two of us, and he was my world. It was devastating. The pain was immense. I didn’t have the tools or resources to deal with it, so I buried it.

I immersed myself in activity: school, athletics, friends and a new foster family. I stayed insanely busy. I missed my dad terribly, but didn’t let myself think about it. As a result, the anxiety level in my life began to rise. Over time, it became an issue, and 10 years later I found myself on medication for anxiety attacks. Over the next 10 years, the attacks grew worse and more frequent.

I visited a counselor, who quickly centered on my dad’s death, now over 20 years distant.

Over the next several months, I worked hard at expressing my grief. I cried a lot. I wrote my dad letters. I set up an empty chair in remembrance of him. I imagined myself with him again right before he died, and this time I said everything I wanted to say. The grief began to pour out of me, and I started to feel the pain of his death.

It hurt. Badly.

And then one day, I noticed my heart was more settled. The anxiety attacks stopped and my overall anxiety level plummeted. I felt peace on a deeper level than I ever had before. The color came back into my life.

Grief helped me heal, once I let it.

And I’ve found this to be true in each and every loss since – and there have been some numerous, heavy-duty ones.

I don’t know what your losses are

or have been, but I believe this is true for you, too: Grief isn’t your enemy. If you use and express it well, it can end up being very good. You can make grief work for you rather than against you.

How? 1. You can make the healthy, courageous choice to feel the pain of your loss. It hurts. Whether the loss is a loved one, your health, a sense of control, your independence, divorce or a long-held dream that’s no longer possible, the pain is natural, and real – very real.

2. You can let the pain out by expressing it appropriately. Write it down. Be honest. As much as possible, express what you’re feeling when you’re feeling it. Try speaking your thoughts and emotions out loud. Most people do this with no one else around, but expressing yourself in front of someone you trust can bring a lot of healing.

3. You can assemble a personal grief healing team. Grief recovery is a team effort. None of us grow or heal alone.

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Your team might be a combination of any of the following: a good friend, a family member, a support group, a pastor and a counselor. Your team needs to be composed of safe people who accept you (and your emotions) and have no agenda other than walking with you through this valley of grief.

Books and other resources are very helpful, too - such as Hospice Brazos Valley’s resource library, which provides DVDs and audio recordings, professional periodicals and materials for children, teens and adults. I also have a free online Good Grief minicourse designed to walk you through various aspects of the grief process.

You can check it out at www.garyroe. com/good-grief.

“Good grief.” Turns out Charlie Brown was right. Grief can be good.

Let’s use it well.

Gary Roe is an author, speaker, and chaplain at Hospice Brazos Valley. Visit him at www.garyroe.com or contact him at groe@hospicebrazosvalley.org.

August 5, 2014 | 9

CALENDAR Ongoing

Sit and Fit Chair Exercises - Get a workout while sitting in a chair. Seniors meet at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, from noon to 1 p.m. For more details, contact 979-764-6351, 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

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

Bluegrass Jam Session – Bluegrass Jam Session is held from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Tuesdays at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. All levels welcome. Bring string instruments and a friend. For more details, contact 979-764-6351, 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Friday Bridge - Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, offers bridge for seniors every Friday from 9 to 11:30 a.m. For more, contact 979-764-

It’s a

6351, 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

42 dominoes - Seniors meet every Thursday to play 42 at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. New players welcome. For more details, contact 979764-6351, 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

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

Aug. 6

Computer Club for Seniors - Meeting will be at the Carter’s Creek Training Room, at 2200 North Forest Parkway in College Station from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Topic will be printers. The club is open to all seniors. 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.

Aug. 11

To register contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Aug. 14

STAR+Plus Expansion Information and Enrollment Event meetings - Star+Plus is a Texas Medicaid managed care program for people who have disabilities and/or are age 65 and older. Managed care means that you get Medicaid services through a health plan, such as Superior Healthplan and UnitedHealthcare Community Plan. The transition to Star+Plus, for the Brazos Valley, will take place on Sept. 1. It is important to be informed about choosing the right health plan and provider. The meeting will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Lincoln Center, 1000 Eleanor St. in College Station. RSVP: Crystal Leon, Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) program manager, at Crystal.Leon@bvcog.org or at (979) 595-2800 Ext. 2013. Lunch will be provided.

Aug. 18

Free Beginning Computer Class for Seniors – Will cover the basics of how to search the Internet and use email. Class size is limited.

“Wee w “W wan antt yyou an ou to ask ask you yours oursel rself, elf, “Why “W did did I w wai aitt so ai so long long?”

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Aug. 19

Diabetes Academy - Free class given by Novo Nordisk Diabetes Educator to teach about managing diabetes. Class meets from 10 to 11 a.m. at Southwood Community Center. To register, call 979-764-6371 or email mrodgers@ cstx.gov.

Aug. 20

Beginning Computer Class 101 - This class is designed for seniors who would like to learn how to use the internet and email. Class meets for two weeks on Monday and Wednesday from

beautiful lifestyle at

9 to 10:30 a.m. at Southwood Community Center.

Cost of the class is $45. To register online visit rectrac.cstx.gov or call 979-764-3486 for more information.

Intermediate Computer Class 102 - Basic computer skills required. Learn more tips on creating and storing documents. Class meets on Monday and Wednesday for two weeks from 10:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at Southwood Community Center. Cost is $45. Register at rectrac.cstx.gov or call College Station Parks and Recreation Department at 979-764-3486.

Genealogy Computer User Group – The

See Calendar page 11

•Transportation & Activities • Fully Equipped Kitchen • Light Housekeeping • 3 Meals a Day • Linen Service • Private Patio

out pecial b A Ask er S

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Our Summ

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

COPD is serious disease that affects breathing

By CECIL SCAGLIONE SCA Matur Life Mature Lif Features atur atures

You’ve probably seen the television commercial.

It goes something like this: a silver-haired individual indi announces “I’m C-E-C-I-L and I have ha C-O-P-D.” Its goal is, of course, to sell a product designed to curb this ailment that robs you of participating fully in the normal activities acti of daily life.

But the subject is more serious than many viewers

realize.

COPD stands for chronic obstructive ucti pulmonary uctive disease. It has been cited as the third-leading cause of death in this country.

It’s reported to affect af some 15 million people, and women are at more risk than men of becoming COPD victims.

The simplest way to describe this disease is that it cuts down your ability to exhale enough air from your lungs.

Calendar

from page pa 10 topic will be “Learn how to create a blog.” Group meets the third Wednesday of each month at the Carter’s Creek Training Room, 2200 North Forest Parkway, from 9:30 to 11 a.m. All are welcome.

No registration required. For more information call 979-764-6371 or email mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Smoking is the main cause of COPD. Its onset is marke mar d by

Aug. 21

Movie and Popcorn: “Saving Mr. Banks” – Seniors are invited to enjoy a free movie and popcorn at Southwood Community Center. Movie starts at 1 p.m. Contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or email mrodgers@ cstx.gov for more information.

Aug. 25

SeniorAdvisoryCommitteemeeting-Meets

such signs as wheezing, chest tightness, production of phlegm and sputum and shortness of breath. As COPD progresses, these symptoms get worse.

The problem is that COPD often is not identified or diagnosed until your lungs ha been damaged. And most have lung damage is irreversible.

Your first step, should you experience or think you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, is to see your doctor.

on the last Monday of each month at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road at 10 a.m. Visitors welcome. For more information call 979-764-6371 or email mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Aug. 27

Casino Day Games with lunch - Seniors are invited to a day of fun, casino games and prizes.

Reserve by calling 979-764-6351 or emailing mrodgers@cstx.gov.

If you smoke, stop immediately. Smoking is the No. 1 cause of this disease, followed closely by secondhand smoke and exposure to polluted air, air whether it’s at your workplace or downtown traf . traffic While many folk still ha a rather comical view have of oldsters’ coughing and wheezing, COPD is no chuckling matter.

You have ha to be able to breathe to stay alive ali .

Aug. 29

Bingo & Birthday Celebration - Seniors are invited on the last Friday of each month to celebrate birthdays for that month with cake and bingo. Held at 1 p.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road. For more details, contact Southwood Community Center at 979764-6351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

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August 5, 2014 | 11

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