50 Plus by The Eagle Advertising Department

A guide to good living in the Brazos Valley

Inside...

Coffee break

Study: Coﬀee Coﬀ could reduce risk of prostrate cancer.

Pg. 8

Chill out

Eight ways cut down on stress. Pg. 13

August 2012 • Vol. 5, Issue 4 • A monthly publication of the Bryan-College Station Eagle

Get moving How exercise boosts quality of life in later years PAGE PA GE 10

Questions to ask when planning for retirement PAGE 4

50plus

Fresh corn inspired this dish

CONTENTS Klemm: Meditation

Financial Literacy: Planning for retirement

Bradway: Muscle strength with aging

Cover: Senior fitness

Health: Ways to stress less

Calendar

The Eagle • theeagle.com

August 2012

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

PUBLISHER Jim Wilson

SPECIAL PROJECT PR S EDITOR Foil packets pack mak for moist chicken make chick and an easy clean up with Chef Diane Lestina’s ina’ recipe. ina’s In July when I was in Pennsylvania, I saw lots of pick-up trucks selling freshlypicked local sweet corn and that inspired me to cook this dIane LeSTIna cOOK it siMPle recipe. I also knew WWW.cheFDiane.cOM it would be perfect when I got back home to Texas using that wonderful Olatha corn that is available here in August. I like cooking chicken in foil because it stays moist and cleanup is minimal. Fresh sliced avocado is a great accompaniment, but feel free to cook some rice as well.

Chicken ick Packets icken ck ckets with Corn Medley

Serves two (can easily be doubled, or tripled). 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 ½ tablespoons fresh lime juice 2 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves (12 ounces total) 2 ears fresh corn, shucked 2 tablespoons chopped green onion, white and green parts 1/4 cup poblano pepper chopped 1/3 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese Salt, black and cayenne

pepper to taste pepper, In a large pot of boiling salted water, ter cook the corn ter, for 3 minutes until the starchiness is just gone. Drain and immerse it in ice water to stop the cooking and to set the color. When the corn is cool, cut the kernels off of the cob, cutting close to the cob. While corn is cooling, trim chicken and pound to even thickness (you only have ha to pound the fat part of the breast to the same thickness as the skinny part). Place in baking dish, season with salt and pepper, pper and add lime pper, juice and olive oli oil. Prepare a grill, or preheat oven to 450 degrees. Combine corn, green onions, poblano pepper and cheese in small bowl. Prepare 2 sheets of nonstick heavy-duty hea aluminum foil measuring 12 x 8 inches. Remove chicken from marinade and place each breast in the center of the foil. Di Divide corn mixture and place on top of chicken. Sprinkle with salt, black and cayenne pepper to taste. Bring up foil sides. Double fold top and ends to seal packet, leaving lea room for heat circulation inside. Bake on a cookie sheet for 22-25 minutes or grill over medium-high heat on uncovered grill for 20-25 minutes. Open one end to allow steam to escape befor bef e

opening top of packet. Test chicken for doneness and serve. Do-Ahead: Chicken packets may be assembled up to 8 hours befor bef e cooking and refrigerated. Additional cooking time may be needed.

Shauna Lewis shauna.lewis@theeagle.com

DISPL ADVER DISPLAY ADVERTISING VERTISING MANAGER MANA Joanne R. Patranella joanne.patranella@theeagle.com

SP SPECIAL PROJECTS/MARKETING PROJECT OJECTS/MARKETING COORDINATO ORDINA R ORDINATO Dawn Goodall dawn.goodall@theeagle.com

Listen Hear Audiology Center Robert Herring, Au.D.

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the effects ef of yogic meditation on caregivers of family members of dementia patients. Caregivers experience great stress, often becoming clinically depressed. The study subjects who meditated for 12 minutes a day for eight weeks, while controls spent the same time listening to relaxing music. Subjects in both groups showed less depression and better mental function, but the gains were substantially greater in the meditation group. Thus, relaxation as such seems beneficial. Most surprising was the marke mar d ef effect of meditation on an enzyme that maintains chromosomes by protecting their telomere “end-caps” of DNA (a 43 percent improvement in enzyme activity acti in meditators compared with 3.7 percent in controls). Thus, meditation, even in this short-term test period, seems to ha a special beneficial effect have ef on celllevel aging. This might relate to the relation of stress and aging. Stress erodes telomeres, and that may be the proximate reason meditation protects telomeres and slows aging. There are numerous ways to meditate, and the Internet has more sites on the topic than you have ha inclination to read. I like the idea of mediating while doing yoga, because yoga can improve muscle and joint

function, while providing a venue for meditation. The mediation style can range from simply focusing on slow, deep breathing (six counts on inhale, eight on exhale) or chanting or both. Yoga can stop the constant silent chatter that goes on in our brain and teach us to be more focused and less distractible. I have ha been doing yoga now for several months and I can testify that it is relaxing mentally, though some of the body positions require great physical effo ef rt. Sour Sources: Lazar S, W., Kerr, Lazar, rr C. E., and rr, Wasserman R. H., et al. (2000). Meditation experience Is associated with Increased Incr cortical thickness,” kness kness,” Neurorep or ort (Nov orep (N ember 28): 1893-1897. Luder E. et al. (2012). The Luders, unique brain br anatom of meditation anatomy practitioners: practitioner actitioners: alterations ter terations in cortical gyriﬁ ri cation. Frontiers riﬁ ontier in Human ontiers Neuroscience. 29 Feb. Fe doi: 10.3389/ fnhum.2012.00034. Lavretsky, Lavretsk etsky, H. et al. (2012). A pilot study of yogic yo meditation for family mil dementia careg mily car ivers with depressi depr pressive symptoms: effects eff on mental health, cognition, and telomerase telomer activity. Int. J. Geriatric Psychiatry. Wileyo le nlinelibrar leyo nlinelibrary. ary.com. DOI: 10.1002/ gps.3790.

Now that your insurance allows you the freedom to choose, there has never been a better time to move up to a St. Joseph Physician. St. Joseph physicians are Bright. Energetic. Caring. Convenient. Accessible. And, Award Winning. They love what they do and you’ll love the difference a St. Joseph physician will make in you and your family’s health and well-being. If you’ve seen a St. Joseph Physician in the past, its as easy as calling and making an appointment with that doctor. If you’ve not experienced the St. Joseph difference with our physicians, call 979.774.2121 or go to switchtosj.org to see St. Joseph Physicians across the Brazos Valley.

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think with), stronger connections among brain areas, less-age related brain atrophy and more folding and surf surface area of the cerebral cortex. Moreover, the amount of extra folding positi ly correlated with the years in positive meditation. The study used 50 meditators (28 men and 22 women) who were recruited with various kinds of meditation backgrounds. These were compared to non-meditating control subjects who were matched for age, handedness and sex. Brain scans revealed that the meditating group had more folding in multiple areas of the cerebral cortex. Amount of folding correlated positive positi ly with the number of years a person had been meditating. The group had earlier ear shown a correlation between IQ and the amount of cortical folding. It is thus possible that meditation over many years might even make you smarter. Other studies have ha shown that experienced meditators are masters of introspection, self-awareness and emotional and mental control. Studies of Tibetan Buddhist monks revealed that they can generate an unusual amount of high-frequency brain wave wa s, which are regarded as a signature of intense brain activity acti . Another recent study evaluated

August 2012

In the July issue, I talked about the stress relief and physical benefits that can come from Yoga. Now, I claim that yoga might benefit your mental ability, ility too. What’s so ility, mentally stimulating, you ask, about sitting in a monk-like trance focused on your dr. BILL KLeMM breathing, or playing the MeMOry MeDic with prayer beads or chanting to yourself ? Good question. Meditation teaches you to focus, and loss of focus is progressive ssi in ssive most of us as we age. Aging enhances distractibility and distractibility distractibility, interferes with forming and recalling memories. Practicing mental focus can be intense brain exercise. New York Times writer John Hanc calls meditation exercises “bench press for the brain.” In 2000, a research group at Harvard had shown that meditators who had practiced the art for about six hours weekly for nine years had a thicker cerebral cortex in the right anterior insula and prefrontal cortex than did non-meditators of the same age. Recently, another research lab at UCLA had shown that long-term meditators have ha more brain grey matter (the part you

50plus

Meditation is exercise for the brain

New Doctor?

Make the Switch. Move up to St. Joseph Joseph.

www.st-joseph.org Looking for a Primary Care Doctor? Call our Physician Finder line at 979.774.2121.

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August 2012

How much should I save for retirement?

Will my income cover my outgo?

This question is like a three-legged stool. How old will you be when you retire? How long will you live li ? How much income will you ha in retirement? have You must have ha realistic answers for all three questions befor bef e you can assess whether you are likely to out li your money. live Typically, the younger you are at retirement, the more acti you will be in active your early ear retirement years. This usually indicates more spending in the early ear years. Sometimes people spend more money in the first retirement year simply because they see the need for house repairs that they didn’t notice when they were at work. 2 Y EAR S The longer your G1 O IN retirement, the more income you will need. It is impossible to accurately predict how long you will li . One rule of live thumb in the financial planning industry is 422 TARROW STREET • COLLEGE STATION to add 20 years to your PROVIDING BIOIDENTICAL HORMONE THERAPY & MEDICAL WEIGHT LOSS FOR MEN & WOMEN FOR THAN 12 YEARS grandparents’ life

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You should aim to have ha your retirement income be greater than your retirement living li expenses. This means you need to project how much those future living li expenses will be. Remember there will be inflation. A commonly used inflation rate is 3%. Also, keep in mind that your expenses will change over the years. You might pay off of your mortgage or move into assisted living. li To get started, consider the following list of common expenses. • Housing – mortgage or rent, property taxes, insurance, yard care, repairs and maintenance • Utilities – telephone, cable (internet and television), water, ter gas ter, and electric • Food – groceries, liquor, liquor take home and dining out (for (f you and for guests) • Vehicles – loan payments, insurance, fuel, repairs and maintenance, licenses • Medical – insurance

Will I run out of money?

provide varying monthly benefits. If you have ha a pension, do you know how safe it is? Keep up with the financial news about your pension. If it becomes at risk, you will want to know early ear so you can adjust your retirement funding or change your plans. The same concern applies to annuities. Understand your annuity and your rights, in the event that your annuity company fails. The following inf mative infor ti articles can be found on tive the Texas Department of Insurance website. Understanding Annuities: http:// www.tdi.state.tx.us/pubs/consumer/ cb078.html If My Insurance Company Fails: http://www.tdi.texas.gov/pubs/ consumer/cb006.html You can find additional inf mation on estimating infor your retirement needs at www. TexasDivo xasDi rceCPA.com. xasDivo eCP eCPA.com. Look for my May 2011 Eagle article, Your Retirement: Boom(ers) or Bust? (by entering the word Boomers in the Search box).

As much as possible. Depending on the age at which you retire, you could be looking at 30 years in retirement. Most people need a bigger nest egg than they think. Your own unique situation drive dri s how much you need to have ha put away. Let’s take your sources of retirement income. Do you have ha a pension? Are your Social Security benefits going to be substantial? Do you TracY STewar ewarT ewar arT plan to retire early early, ly, Financial literacy iter say age 50 or 55? Do you plan to work part time during your retirement? Are you going to assist your elderly elder parents? You also need to consider your li living expenses. Everyone can list food, insurance and utilities. Will you have ha a mortgage payment in retirement? Will you be paying for someone’s college costs? How often do you dine out? How much do you trave tra l? The higher your living li expenses, the more you need to save sa for retirement to meet that lifestyle. We’ve all heard that retirement income estimates should be based on a percentage of pre-retirement income. But what should that percentage be? The answers range from 60 to 90 percent. Unfor Unf tunately, the rules of thumb do not consider your particular retirement plans.

span. Another trick is to use age 95 or 100 as your own life span. Whatever you use, be sure you err on the side of a long life. It is better to die with some money left over than to run out of money befor bef e the end of your life. Understand all your sources of retirement income. You might have ha a pension that will pay you a monthly benefit. Other sources of retirement income include a 401(k), a 403(b), IRAs, annuities or other inve in stments. If you have ha inve in stments in mutual funds, stocks or bonds, do you fully understand the inve in stments and your risks? Some inve in stors feel they are dive di rsifying their inve in stments by putting them at more than one institution or with more than one in stment advisor inve ad . If you are one of these and your various advisors ad are not aware of all your inve in stments, you can easily be inve in sted in the same stock over and over. You may think you are dive di rsified when you are not. As for pensions, some require you to choose among options for those benefits, depending on provision for your surviving survi spouse. The options

premiums, deductibles, co-payments, prescriptions, eye care, dental (remember Medicare premiums) • Insurance – long-term care, life (other insurance is covered above) • Gifts – personal and charitable, college funding for relative ti s, caring for your parents tive • Income taxes – this is tricky so you might want to check with your CP CPA • Travel & entertainment –trips, hobbies, other activities acti • Sa Savings – amount you want to put aside each year • Consumer debts – credit cards, personal loans • Assisted living li –home health care aide, nursing home or other assisted living li situation • Helping relative ti s – financial tive assistance for your parents • Other – clothing, grooming, pet care and an estimate of those miscellaneous expenses you can’t remember

C E L E BR A T

50plus

Three questions to ask when you are planning for retirement

• www.nbhlifetimehealth.com

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

growing, global health issue with devastating complications, including heart attack, stroke, blindness, kidney failure and amputations. Ensuring that people with diabetes stay on their medication as directed can go a long

way in helping them maintain and improve their health,” Solow says. To find out if text message reminders are available to you, contact your pharmacy benefits manager or visit OptumRx.com.

The Eagle • theeagle.com

had higher rates of taking their medication as instructed (known as “medication adherence”) than those who did not - 85 percent vs. 77 percent. The adherence rates for those taking medication for diabetes were even higher - 91 percent vs. 82 percent. Even patients older than 60 showed significant improvement in their adherence with the use of text messages. “Many of us are using our phones to do more - check the weather, her read her, a news article, research infor inf mation on a medical condition. It makes sense that reaching patients through technology could improve their adherence, and now we have ha the evidence to prove that it can, even among older patients,” says Dr. Brian K. Solow, chief medical officer of of OptumRx. The study’s findings on diabetes adherence also are important, Solow says. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, near 26 million people in the U.S. nearly had diabetes as of 2010. “Diabetes continues to be a

August 2012

(ARA) - Americans are busy people, and with everything that goes on in our daily live li s, remembering to take a prescribed medication can be a challenge. But studies show that forgetting your medications has consequences, including creating a more serious and even dangerous health issue. According to The New England Journal of Medicine, nearly near 70 percent of medication-related hospital admissions in the United States are the result of not taking a prescription medication as directed by a doctor. The good news is that there are new technologies that are helping remind patients to take their medicines, such as text messages that arrive ri at a precise day and time. In rive fact, a recent study of 580 patients with chronic diseases such as diabetes or hypertension showed that text messaging could help patients stick to their medication schedules. The study, by OptumRx, a leading pharmacy benefits management company, found that patients receiving cei ceiving text message reminders

50plus

Text messages can be used as reminders to take prescribed medications

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Time to get squirrely

Now is a good time to get finances in order. By Cecil Scaglione

The Eagle • theeagle.com

August 2012

Matur Life Mature Lif Features atur atures

If you missed the springtime clean-up of your finances, now’s a good time to follow the squirrel’s instincts and start packing your economic storehouse. It’s an excellent way to prepare for the oncoming onslaught of the annual Christmas-season shoppingand-spending spree. Your first step is to get organized. Start with your bank accounts. Streamline your online statements and bill payments, recommends nationally-recognized consumer and money-saving money-sa expert Andrea Woroch. If you have ha n’t already, consolidate your accounts into one or two institutions. If you’ve moved, you might have ha left some cash behind in an old account. Close it and move your money to where it will work for you befor bef e bank fees throw you into overdraft status. If you’re still paying down debt from last Christmas, eliminating that should top your priority list. Gi special attention to your Give

credit cards with the highest interest rates. Pick up gifts at sales throughout the year to alleviate the stress and strain on your budget.

Use coupons where you can, Woroch suggests, and buy gift cards at a discount from such online sites as GiftCardGranny to sa instantly on gifts as well as save everyday purchases. Now look for fiscal frills you can trim. You can save sa several bucks by canceling your movie channel and downloading films that are more interesting to you. Check and call around for new quotes on car-, home- and life-insurance policies. Update the beneficiaries on your life insurance. It’s a simple sidestep into estate planning at this stage. Create or update your will or trust. Look into setting up a living li will and power of attorney. Destroy old documents so there’s no confusion when you’re gone, Woroch said. And it’s never too early ear to consider tax time. Instead of tossing all your receipts into a shoebox, Woroch suggests you set up an easy-to-use filing system to separate health-care forms, trave tra l records, home-office home-of deductions, and

other documents that not only makes for easier record-keeping but helps keep you aware of your spending status. If you receive cei d a big tax refund ceive this year, ar you’re not withholding ar, enough money from your monthly paycheck or quarterly ter payment. terly Rather than let the government play with your cash all year, ar rework ar, or your ork tax-payment plans and make that money work for you. When you’ve let the dust settle around all this budget bustle, you might consider working with a financial adviser ad to understand where all your money is going and whether it’s working for you. Search on line and check with your tax preparer, er attorney, er, ney and ney, insurance agent for reputable fiscal professionals you can contact and interview befor bef e establishing a relationship. Remember why you’re doing all this: to clean up your act, not enlist more actors -- so you and your advisor ad can review your existing economic edifice to determine if its fiscal foundation is a solid as it should be.

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August 14th Wills and Estate Planning

August 2012

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50plus

Study: Coffee could reduce prostrate cancer risk By James Gaffney

The Eagle • theeagle.com

August 2012

Mature Life Features

If you’re a guy who enjoys a jolt of joe in the morning and who would rather give up driving than coffee, there might be some good news on the horizon. Men who drink coffee on a regular basis appear to have a lower risk of developing a lethal form of prostate cancer, according to a new Harvard School of Public Health study. An unexpected part of the findings was that the lowered risk was the same regardless of whether the subjects drank regular or decaffeinated coffee. “Few studies have specifically studied the association of coffee intake and the risk of lethal prostate cancer, the form of the disease that is the most critical to prevent,” said senior author Lorelei Mucci, HSPH associate professor of epidemiology. “Our study is the largest to date to examine whether coffee could lower the risk of lethal prostate cancer.” Prostate cancer is the mostfrequently diagnosed form of cancer and second-leading cause of cancer death among U.S. men, affecting one in six men during their lifetime. More than 16 million men worldwide are

prostate-cancer survivors. Besides leading to death, lethal prostate cancer spreads to the bones. “At present, we lack an understanding of risk factors that can be changed or controlled to lower the risk of lethal prostate cancer,” said lead author Kathryn Wilson, an HSPS research fellow in epidemiology. “If our findings are validated, coffee could represent one modifiable factor that may lower the risk of developing the most harmful form of prostate cancer,” The researchers chose to study coffee because it contains many beneficial compounds that act as antioxidants, reduce inflammation, and regulate insulin, all of which may influence prostate cancer. Coffee has been associated in earlier studies with lowering the risk of Parkinson’s disease, type 2 diabetes, gallstone disease, and liver cancer or cirrhosis. The Harvard study examined the association between coffee consumption and particularly the risk of aggressive prostate cancer among 47,911 men in the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study who reported their coffee consumption every four years from 1986 to 2008. During the study period, 5,035 cases of prostate cancer were reported, including 642 fatal or

metastatic cases. Among the findings: • Men who consumed the most coffee (six or more cups daily) had nearly a 20 percent lower risk of developing any form of prostate cancer. • The inverse association with coffee was even stronger for aggressive prostate cancer. Men who drank the most coffee had a 60 percent lower risk of developing lethal prostate cancer. • The reduction in risk was seen whether the men drank decaffeinated or regular coffee, and does not appear to be due to caffeine. • Even drinking one to three cups of coffee a day was associated with a 30 percent lower risk of lethal prostate cancer. • Coffee drinkers were more likely to smoke and less likely to exercise, behaviors that may increase the risk of advanced prostate cancer. These and other lifestyle factors were accounted for in the study and coffee still was associated with a lower risk.

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I’m often asked if insurance companies pay for physical therapy and the answer is a resounding yes. They realize how necessary and important this service is in general and as you age. For example, Medicare patients can receive cei up to ceive $1,880 in physical therapy care each year and this can be extended if the physical therapist believes it is medically necessary to continue with therapy. Even if you are uninsured or have ha a large deductible, physical therapy services are very affo af rdable, particularly ticular ticularly considering the alternative ti tive (i.e., surgery, ery injections, ery, pain medications, loss of independence and so on). You can call the number on the back of your insurance card and ask about whether “physical therapy perfor perf med in the office” of is covered. If you have ha additional questions, please feel free to contact our office of . Our staff staf can help you with insurance questions. In addition, follow our Facebook posts for

inf mation about upcoming infor “insurance 101” classes. It should be noted that medical providers are not allowed to waive copayments unless the patient can demonstrate true financial need (generally this requires household financial infor inf mation). In addition, while you can see a physical therapist for an initial evaluation, in Texas, a physician’s referral is required for treatment. Please see our website for strengthening exercises you can safely do at home (BVphysicaltherapy.com). Please remember to check with your doctor befor bef e starting any exercise program and do not exercise alone if you have ha any concerns about balance, falls or general health. “Pr “Preha bilitation” Aids Fr Frail Elder Living At Home Elders A DGReview of :”A program to preve pr nt functional decline in physically ll frail, lly fr elder elderly per persons who live at home.” New England Eng Journal of Medicine (NEJM) (N 10/04/2002

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indi individuals who followed a six-month physical therapy program and continued with exercises saw a 45 percent reduction in disability compared with others who did not participate. Patients who receive cei d a program ceive in physical therapy also had fewer fall-related injuries and were less likely to move into nursing homes. Dr. Gill concluded that “prehabilitation” or preventive enti physical therapy entive for the elderly elder could reduce health care expenses and nursing home admissions. Many elderly elder and their families do not realize that physical therapy can help the elderly elder maintain independent living. li The National Institutes of Health recognizes that physical therapy is good for improving strength, balance, mobility and overall fitness, all factors that can contribute to a patient’s ability to remain independent and avoid falls, which is so critical as people age.

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patient balance problems and falls. Between one-third and one-half of the senior population falls at least once a year, ar often causing hip ar, fractures, other injuries, and in a third of the cases, death. In fact, falling is the No. 1 cause of in-home injury for the elderly elder . Physical therapy training for balance deficits and fall prevention can help. Most people think of physical therapy as something you need after surgery, ery an injury ery, or accident and do not realize the benefits of physical therapy extend well beyond these instances. Research funded by the National Institute on Aging and published in The New England Journal of Medicine provides evidence that physical therapy can reduce and even prevent the functional decline of frail elderly elder individuals indi who receive cei a program designed ceive to improve their balance, strength and movement. In fact, Dr. Thomas M. Gill, associate professor of internal medicine and geriatrics at the Yale School of Medicine and principal author of the study, looked at whether activities acti necessary for independent daily living li -- such as walking, bathing, using the toilet, grooming, dressing, getting up from a chair and eating -- improved with physical therapy. Results of his research showed that frail elderly elder

August 2012

Question: My 75-yearold mother worries me. She looks like she is going to fall at any moment, her balance seems off of and she just seems to get weaker and weaker every year. She sits more than she used to and doesn’t go out much. Whenever I mentioned moving to a place where she could be cared for more dw dwaY closely, she Leon BradwaY Physical theraP heraPy is adamant that she wants to remain in her own home. What can I do to help her? I want to honor her wishes, but not if her safety is at risk. LK, College Station Many people her age experience the same thing. As one ages, physical function decreases, even to a point where they may no longer be able to safely live li alone. An important aspect of physical function is maintaining or increasing muscle strength. Muscle strength declines each decade and after the age of 70 it declines approximately 30 percent a year and for women muscle loss can occur more rapidly than in men. For example, 65 percent of women over 75 years of age cannot lift 10 pounds. Muscle weakness is a contributing factor in

50plus

Muscle strength as you age

William H. Marr, M.D., P.A. Bryan College Station Brenham Toll Free

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50plus

Get moving

Exercise boosts quality of life through senior years

The Eagle • theeagle.com

For people who want to live li a longer, er healthier er, life, the first step is moving. Many people approaching their senior years are active, acti according to a recent survey by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP). The advo ad cacy group found that seven in 10 adults ages 45 and older say they are physically active acti . About half said they exercise up to four hours a week. However, er roughly two-thirds said they are less er, acti than they were five years ago. active According to Chris Woodman, associate professor in the Health and Kinesiology Department at Texas A&M Unive Uni rsity, rsity seniors who have ha spent long periods of time being inactive inacti – moving from the bed to the chair, air watching television and air, remaining sedentary – typically have ha a poorer quality of life than those who exercise. “Exercise is the easiest, most comprehensive ehensi and ehensive ef efficient way of maintaining cardiovascular health throughout your life,” said Woodman. “By staying acti active, you reduce the chance of cardiovascular disease and Type 2 Diabetes.” Woodman points to his father, ther who at age 82, still ther, plays tennis three times a week, canoes, kayaks and climbs mountains on weekends, as an example of the better-than-ave -than-a rage quality of life seniors can -than-ave enjoy when they maintain an active acti lifestyle. The benefits According to the American College of Sports Medicine, evidence indicates that participation in a regular exercise program is an effecti effective fective way to reduce and prevent a number of the functional declines associated with aging. Older adults have ha the ability to adapt and respond to endurance and strength training. Aerobic and endurance training can help to maintain and improve various aspects of heart and lung function and cardiac output. Strength and resistance training helps offset of the loss in muscle mass and strength typically associated with aging, improving functional capacity. Seniors should shoot for 30 minutes of aerobic exercise per day, five days per week,” Woodman said. “And it doesn’t ha to be continuous. Three 10-minute have bouts of exercise is fine, and people seem to get the same basic benefit as they would if they did 30 minutes of exercise at a time.” Woodman said seniors should also

Local resources Many programs exist across the Brazos Valley to help seniors reach their fitness goals. Gold Medallion Club members at St. Joseph’s Regional Health Center receive cei a $5 discount on ceive wellness services they opt to participate in on a month-to-month basis, with no contact. The club is a program for people age 50 or over, er er, of offering health-related programs, social gatherings, group trave tra l and more. The wellness program located in St. Joseph Regional Rehabilitation Center of offers gym, water, ter studio exercise and personal ter, training. For more infor inf mation visit http://www. st-joseph.org/GoldMedallionClub. Senior Circle at College Station Medical Center of offers a twice-weekly exercise class,at 8:45 a.m. Tuesday and Thursday mornings at College Station Medical Center. A personal trainer leads the class in an exercise routine that focuses on aerobics, bands, balls, weights and some senior-adapted yoga (mostly deep-breathing exercises). Participants can perfor perf m the exercises from a seated position, if necessary. Also, Senior Circle member Pat Vanderboom teaches a line dancing class at College Station Medical Center at 6 p.m. Mondays. “It’s a fun way to get in a little exercise,” said Mandy Williams, Senior Circle advisor ad and Healthy Woman coordinator for College Station Medical Center. “She is part of a line-dancing group called the Rhythm Rockers.” Senior Circle is a national, nonprofit organization, offering of free events for seniors, monthly activities acti , educational lunch and learn programs, discounts and other perks per . For more infor inf mation, visit www.csmedcenter. com and select the link for Senior Circle. The College Station Parks and Recreation Department also offers of a variety of fitness classes, including Sit & Be Fit Chair Exercise at noon Tuesdays and Thursdays and line dancing at 1:30 p.m. Tuesdays and 10 a.m. Fridays at the Southwood Community Center, Center located at 1520 Rock Prairie Road. At the Lincoln Recreation Center in College Station, the Parks and Recreation Department of offers Sit & Be Fit Exercise at 9:30 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays and line dancing 10 a.m. Fridays. The Lincoln Recreation Center is located at 1000 Eleanor Street. For more infor inf mation, contact Senior Services Coordinator Marci Rodgers at 979-764-6371. Local gyms also offer of a variety of programs tailored to seniors, as well, from one-on-one training to targeted classes and fitness evaluations to let seniors know where they are in terms of overall fitness, balance and flexibility.

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aim for incorporating strength training into their routines two days a week. Strength training and flexibility exercises help reduce risk factors associated with diseases, including heart disease, diabetes and osteoporosis, helps to improve health status and contributes to an increase in lifespan, according to the American College of Sports Medicine. Getting started Woodman said seniors who have ha not exercised in the past or who want to increase the amount of exercise they are currently doing should first consult with a physician. “Y especially want to do that in Texas, where “You it’s so hot and humid,” he said. “Once you get the go-ahead to start exercise, I’m a big fan of exercise classes – going into an envir en onment where other people are exercising, where you can be sociable and have ha fun.” Another adva ad ntage to group fitness classes, said Woodman, is that an experienced person is leading the class, who understands safety components related to exercise. Most importantly, he said, people are more likely to exercise when they have ha a partner. Seniors should take care to select a class that is tailored to their fitness level, Woodman said. “Most of the health clubs have ha classes geared toward seniors, that are not so intense,” he said. Personal training also is an option for people who wish to exercise with a smaller group, with whom they are comfor comf table, he said.

August 2012

By Holli L. Estridge

50plus

Omega-3 foods to save the day?

The degree to which omega-3 fatty acids will improve health depends on several lifestyle factors. By Bev Bennett

The Eagle • theeagle.com

August 2012

CTW Features atur atures

Eating a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids could reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s disease and memory problems, according to recent research. However, er not all studies reach the er, same conclusions. That may leave lea you wondering what you should be eating, based on the current science. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids should be on the menu, according to Ann C. Skulas-Ray, Ph.D., nutrition researcher Penn State Unive Uni rsity, rsity Uni rsity Park. Unive Omega-3s are a type of polyunsaturated fatty acids found in fatty fish, such as sardines, salmon and mackerel, as well as a few plant foods including flaxseed and English walnuts. The degree to which you benefit from these fatty acids may depend your long-term diet. If you’ve had years of poor dietary and lifestyle habits and you face a health condition, eating salmon steak now as a medical intervention may not be effecti effective fective. “It’s kind of like exercise. Don’t wait until you have ha heart disease to exercise,” she says. Instead, routinely include omega-3 foods. “The observational studies are very strong. People who have ha eaten omega-3 [fat [f ty acids] over a lifetime ha less risk of developing heart have disease and Alzheimer’s disease,” says Skulas-Ray, who studies both

the past, it’s never too late to improve your diet, and it’s not complicated, according to Skulas-Ray. Focus on vegetables, fruits and whole grains and make fish part of your healthful eating plan. “There’s no downside,” she says. The following recipe combines fresh vegetables and herbs with salmon for a delicious and filling chowder. Summer Salmon Chowder 1 teaspoon butter 1 medium red onion, chopped 1 medium green bell pepper, pper cored, pper, seeded, chopped Kernels from 1 large ear of corn (about 1 cup) 3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth 3 small-medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 3 cups) 3/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 12 ounces skinless sockeye salmon fillet, cut into bite-size chunks 1 teaspoon minced fresh dill weed 1 tablespoon flour

1 cup reduced-fat duced-f milk duced-fat Dill weed sprigs Melt butter in large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion, bell pepper and corn. Cook 7 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently or until onion is tender. Pour in ½ cup broth. Scrape up browned bits. Add remaining 2 1/2 cups broth. Add potatoes, salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Cook 10 minutes, or until potatoes are just tender. Stir in salmon and dill. Reduce heat to low, simmer 6 to 8 minutes, until salmon is cooked through. Stir together flour and milk in a small bowl. Stir into chowder. Heat through, stirring frequently until chowder is hot and slightly thickened. Garnish with dill sprigs. Makes 6 servings. Each serving has: 215 calories; 5 grams total fat; 16 grams protein; 26.5 grams carbohydrates; 3 milligrams cholesterol; 450 milligrams sodium and 2.5 grams dietary fiber. Bev Bennett, a veteran ter food writer teran and editor, editor is the author of “Dinner for Two: A Cookbook for Couples” and “30-Minute Meals for Dummies.”

cardiovascular disease and fatty acids. One recent study adds support to this. Scientists looked at more than 1,200 adults older than 65 and free of dementia. The volunteers described what they’d eaten for about 1.2 years befor bef e the study. Then their blood was tested for beta-amyloid, a substance associated with Alzheimer’s disease. The more omega-3 fatty acids the volunteers reported taking in, the lower their blood levels of betaamyloid, according to research published in the online issue of Neurology, gy the gy, medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. Ha Having less betaamyloid in the blood relates to the level of the substance in the Join a Support Group • Get Adequate Sleep • Exercise Daily brain. But even if Eat Nutritious Meals • Utilize Respite Care you have ha n’t been nutrition conscious in

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hormone cortisol. 5. Smile like you mean it. A 2002 study found that volunteers who were instructed to hold a pencil in their teeth, and thus were able to smile, rated cartoons as funnier than volunteers who pursed the pencil between their lips. The findings build on earlier research concluding that involuntary biological changes similar to those caused by emotions were experienced by volunteers instructed to make certain faces. 6. Chew gum, because the rhythmic chomping has been shown to increase blood flow to the brain, improving concentration and memory, Hall says. Chewing gum after meals can also prevent heartburn symptoms by neutralizing acid. 7. Chant a meaningful word, phrase or affirmation. A London study of monks in 2008 found that chanting lowers heart rate and blood pressure. Earlier studies

showed chanting reduces anxiety and depression and increases performance hormone levels. Keep a string of beads on hand. Many religions and cultures “have used the sense of touch, through beads, to guide us back to our center where we experience peace and serenity,” Hall says. “Take a deep breath or repeat an affirmation as you touch each bead.” Or, assign a specific meaning to each bead and reflect on it as you touch it. 8. Go outside for a spell. Several studies have shown that “people who are in frequent contact with nature and the outdoors experience fewer stress-related symptoms than those who routinely stay inside,” says Brant Secunda, director, Dance of the Deer Foundation of Shamanistic Studies, Soquel, Calif. “The fresh air, sunlight, scents, green views and having contact with the earth beneath your feet all have stress-reducing benefits.”

Study: High fiber diet might not be the way to go By James Gaffney High-fiber diets have long been heralded as a potential safeguard against a lower-intestinal disease called diverticulitis, in which pouches develop in the colon wall. After more than 40 years of research, it turns out that the exact opposite might be true, according to a recent University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine study of more than 2,000 people. Its results indicate a diet high in fiber might actually raise the incidence of diverticulitis. “Despite the significant morbidity and mortality of symptomatic diverticulosis, it looks like we may have been wrong, for decades, about why diverticula actually form,” said Dr. Anne Peery, a fellow in the UNC gastroenterology and hepatology division and the study’s lead researcher. “While it is too early to tell patients what to do differently, these results are exciting for researchers. Figuring out that we don’t know something gives us the opportunity to look at disease processes in new ways.” More than one-third of U.S. adults over age 60 are affected by diverticulitis, experts say. Although most cases are asymptomatic, when complications develop they can be severe, resulting in infections, bleeding, intestinal perforations, and even death. Health care associated with such complications costs an estimated $2.5

diverticula than those with the Peery. In fact, the study revealed billion per year. highest fiber intake. those with the lowest fiber intake Since the late 1960s, doctors have were 30 percent less likely to develop recommended a highfiber diet to regulate bowel movements and reduce the risk of diverticulosis. This recommendation is based on the idea that a low fiber diet will cause constipation and, in turn, generate diverticula as a result of increased pressure in the colon. However, few studies have been conducted to back up that assumption. “Our findings dispute commonlyheld beliefs because e make it our top priority to care for seniors with the respect, asymptomatic compassion and dignity they deserve. We understand that caring is diverticulosis has what makes a community and without a sense of caring, there can be no sense never been rigorously of community. It is what sets us apart from any other long-term care facility. studied,” Peery said. The UNC study is Copp Co eras er Hollow llow ll Nursing and Rehabilitation Actual based on data from Resident & provides the following services: Staff Staf member. member 2,104 patients aged 30 • Rehab to Home: short term care to 80 who underwent • Therapy services outpatient colonoscopy at UNC Hospitals from » Physical, Occupational & Speech 1998-2010. Participants • Long term care were interviewed • Respite and Adult Day Care about their diet, bowel • Skilled nursing care 24 hour 7 days a week movements, and level • Optimal Payment Options: Medicare, Medicaid, of physical activity. Managed Care Insurance & Private Pay “We were surprised to find that a low345 Country Club Dr. • Caldwell, Texas fiber diet was not associated with a higher prevalence www.copperashollowcare.com of asymptomatic diverticulosis,” said

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

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Mature Life Features

August 2012

Spa treatments are pricey. And deep breaths don’t always seem sufficient. So what can a person do when stress sends a heart rate skyrocketing? In just a few minutes, some surprising, research-based stress busters can slow a heart rate, stimulate endorphin production and reduce cortisol levels. 1. Watch talking dog or dancing baby YouTube videos, or whatever strikes you as laugh-out-loud funny. Stress constricts the arteries by as much as 35 percent, and laughter opens them up again for increased blood flow, says Dr. Kathleen Hall, founder and CEO, The Stress Institute, Atlanta. 2. Lose your loafers. “Rubbing your bare feet on the floor stimulates over 200,000 nerve endings, one of the densest concentrations on the body,”

Hall says. “Our nerve-dense soles are our tactile contact with the physical world, and without direct contact we lose equilibrium and become disoriented.” 3. Go nuts with your diet. Nuts, seeds, dairy products, legumes, soy products, tuna and turkey all contain tryptophan, an amino acid that helps the body produce the brain chemical serotonin, “which plays an important role in both healthy sleep and mood,” says psychiatrist Dr. David Sack, president and CEO, Elements Behavioral Health, Long Beach, Calif. 4. Hug a loved one. “There are incredible benefits to hugging someone. Your blood pressure decreases and your body produces endorphins and oxytocin, a bonding hormone that makes people feel secure and trusting,” says Hall, citing a University of Wisconsin study in which presentation givers who hugged their moms afterward experienced decreases in the stress

50plus

8 inspirations to stress less for better health

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August 2012

Ongoing Crafts for Seniors - Learn a new craft Wednesdays at 10 a.m. at Lincoln Center, 1000 Eleanor St. in College Station. For more details, contact Lincoln Center at 979-7643779 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or e-mail awilliams@cstx.gov. Bible Study - Seniors gather at Lincoln Center, 1000 Eleanor Bible Study. For more information, call 979764-3779 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or e-mail awilliams@cstx.gov. Sit and Fit Chair Exercise – Seniors meet at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, Tuesdays and Thursdays, from noon to 12:45 p.m. For more information, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or College Station Parks and Recreation Department’s Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. 42 dominoes - Seniors meet every Thursday to play 42 at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. For more information, contact Southwood CommunityCenterat979-764-6351or College Station Parks and Recreation Department’s Senior Services at 979764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. Bridge - Southwood Community Center offers bridge for seniors from 9 a.m. to noon every Friday at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road. For more details, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or College Station Parks and Recreation

Department’s Senior Services at 979764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. Line Dancing - Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, offers line dancing for seniors from 10 to 11 a.m. on Fridays. For more details, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or College Station Parks and Recreation Department’s Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. Game Day – Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, will offer various games from noon to 3 p.m. For more details, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or College Station Parks and Recreation Department’s Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. Line Dancing - Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, offers line dancing for seniors every Tuesday from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. For more information, contact Southwood CommunityCenterat979-764-6351or College Station Parks and Recreation Department’s Senior Services at 979764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. Bluegrass Jam Session - A Bluegrass Jam Session is held from 1:30 to 3 p.m. every Tuesday at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Bring string instruments and a friend. All levels welcome. For more details, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or College Station Parks and Recreation Department’s Senior Services at 979764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Aug. 8 AARP Driver Safety Program - Drivers 55 and over are invited to attend the driver safety program offered at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost is $12 for AARP members or $14 for non-members. Pay at the door. Attendees will need to bring their AARP membership card and valid driver’s license to class. To register for the class, contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department’s Senior Services at 979764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. “Health Talk” Topic: Family Health History - Health talks are presented by Brazos County Health Department on the second Wednesday of each month at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Rd. from 10 to 11 a.m. Refreshments served. Contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 for more information or College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov

Aug. 14 E-mail Class for Seniors – A class on how to set up and manage

an e-mail account will be held from 9 to 10:30 a.m. on Aug. 14 and 16 at Southwood Community Center in College Station. Cost is $45. To register online, visit rectrac.cstx.gov or contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department at 979-7643486. Computer Tips Class for Seniors – A class will be held Aug. 14 and 16 on how to organize documents and folders and create shortcuts. Class meets from 10:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Cost is $45. To register, visit rectrac.cstx. gov or contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department at 979764-3486. Senior Health Talk with Interim Healthcare - Learn about senior health at 10 a.m. with Bill Lartique with Interim Healthcare at Lincoln Center, 1000 Eleanor. For more information call Lincoln Center, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at 979-7643779, or e-mail awilliams@cstx.gov.

Brothers Blvd., will hold a guided meditation and energy share class. Suggested donation is $5. Proceeds will go to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Aug. 16 Movie and Popcorn - Seniors are invited to watch the movie, “The Big Miracle” and eat popcorn at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road. Movie starts at 1 p.m. For more details, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or College Station Parks and Recreation Department’s Senior Services at 979-764-6371.

Aug. 18 AARP Driver Safety Class – Class will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at The Carriage Inn, 4235 Booneville Road in Bryan. Light lunch provided by host. Call 979-731-1300 for registration.

Aug. 22

Aug. 15 Meditation and engery share class - Brazos Healing Center, 1804

Writing Your Family History

See Page 15

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Aug. 31

Senior Advisory Committee Meeting - The Senior Advisory Committee meets at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road at 10 a.m. Visitors welcome. For more information call 979-764-6371 or e-mail mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Aug. 29

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August 2012

Ice Cream Social with College Station Fire Department - Seniors are invited to cool off of with some ice cream and learn helpful tips on fire safety in their homes. Event will be held at 1 p.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. For more information, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or College Station Parks and Recreation Department’s Senior Services at 979764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Bingo and Birthday Celebration – All seniors are invited to celebrate August birthdays at 1 p.m. at Southwood Community Center, with cake and Bingo. Prizes for Bingo. For more details, contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or College Station Parks and Recreation Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov. Lincoln Center Senior Birthday Celebration Pot Luck – Seniors are invited to a celebration of August birthdays at Lincoln Center. Bring a dish to share. For more information contact Lincoln Center at 979-7643779 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or e-mail awilliams@cstx.gov.

Don’t Miss the Bus!

50plus

Workshop – Free workshop will be held at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road from 9:30 -11:30 a.m. To register, contact 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx. gov.

Lincoln Center Seniors’“Recipe Tasting” - Agrilife presents nutrition education with a healthy recipe tasting at Lincoln center, 1000 Eleanor at 10 a.m. For more information contact Lincoln Center from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at 979-764-3779 or email awilliams@cstx.gov.

Continued from Page 14

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50plus August 2012 The Eagle • theeagle.com 16

High temps hike risks for those with diabetes (ARA) - For the nearly near 26 million Americans li living with diabetes, high temperatures and increased sun exposure can pose particularly ticular dangerous health ticularly risks. During warm weather, her her, experts caution that people with diabetes must take extra care to avoid serious, heatrelated conditions. “Heading to the beach, the pool or the park par is a great way to cool down and stay in shape when the temperature rises, but people with diabetes may not realize the heat can place them at greater risk for serious, heat-related illness,” says Dr. Deneen Vo Vojta, senior vice president and chief clinical officer of of UnitedHealth Group’s Diabetes Prevention and Control Alliance (DPCA). “Diabetes actually impairs a person’s ability to sweat, which means that hot, humid weather can dangerously reduce the body’s regulation of blood sugar levels. That’s why it is critical that people with this disease take proper precautions to avoid conditions like heat exhaustion and heat stroke.” Vo Vojta of offers seven simple tips that may help people with this disease to stay acti active, healthy and safe when temperatures are high: 1. Check your blood sugar levels often. Changes in acti activity and heat levels can af affect your body’s insulin needs. 2. Wear sunblock. Sunburn can tax your body and trigger increased blood glucose levels. 3. Stay cool. Take regular breaks from the heat in air-conditioned areas or designated cooling centers,

if possible. Make sure to exercise in an air-conditioned place or exercise during ear morning and evening early hours when temperatures are cooler. 4. Keep medication and supplies cool and away from direct sunlight. Extreme temperatures and sunlight can have ha a damaging effect ef on diabetes medication such as insulin, causing the drug to break down or become less effective effecti fective. 5. Stay hydrated. Dehydration stresses the body and affects af glucose levels. 6. Avoid caffeine caf and alcohol in high temperatures. Both alcohol and caffeine caf ha diuretic effects have ef that can increase risks of dehydration. 7. Be alert for common signs of heat exhaustion. Signs of serious healthrelated illnesses can include: hea sweating, paleness, heavy muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting and fainting. Vo Vojta ad advises that people with diabetes should be on the lookout for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke and seek medical attention right away if they experience symptoms. Additional resources on managing and preventing diabetes can be found by visiting the websites of the American Diabetes Association (www.diabetes. org) and the National Diabetes Education Program (ndep.nih.gov/resources). UnitedHealth Group also of offers a range of helpful tips and infor inf mation on the disease at www. unitedhealthgroup.com/ diabetes.

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“Unf tunately, there are “Unfor some in the trave tra l business who are more concerned with separating trave tra lers from their money than in getting them to their destination,” according to a spokesperson for The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, which oversees industries that sell vacationhome plans in The Sunshine State. He went on to advise ad that, to avoid falling victim to such crooks when planning a trip, make sure the company you plan to do business with is registered in your state and check for any complaints filed against it. Additional tips offer of ed by Car Shepherd, co-founder Carl co-f of the vacation-home company HomeA y.com include: HomeAwa •Deal only with a reputable site where the owners and property managers have ha to join and be vetted; • See how well the property is presented: check descriptions, photos, reviews and previous renters you can contact; • Keep tabs on who is responding, how fast people get back to you, a phone number you can call and how often the e-mail address changes; and •Pay attention to how a renter asks to be paid. “If they want you to wire money via Western Union, that’s never a good idea,” says Shepherd. “The best way to pay is via credit card.” Mature Life Features

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Crabby research project teaches wildlife survival skills

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Caring ring for the Eyes of Texa xas

August 2012

The cruise-ship collision of Italy’s Tuscan coast may off ha give have gi n second thoughts to a person who signed up for a cruise. This give gi s rise to the question: can you buy insurance that will reimburse you if something similar happens on your cruise? Standard Trip Cancellation or Trip Interruption policies spell out your coverage, including reimbursement usually for such things as accident, illness, emergency back home, a lost bag, and providing air evacuation. Some companies sell air evacuation as a stand-alone policy. According to a spokesman for Squarmouth.com, a tra l-insurance comparison trave site, trip-cancellation or tripinterruption polices do not provide coverage for events like the crash off of the Italian coast. However, er many policies er, will offer of such coverage as an upgrade to their standard coverage, under the heading Cancel for Any Reason, with generally a 40 to 50 percent premium increase. Cancel for Any Reason coverage must be purchased within 14 to 30 days of making your initial deposit for the cruise. If you decide to cancel the added coverage you must do so at least two days befor bef e the sailing. If you do cancel, you do not have ha to specify a reason and you can receive cei a refund ceive of up to 75 percent of the trip cost. Squaremouth has a chart for each company’s plans, listing what is covered. To get a quote, you need to provide trip dates and cost, whether you want tripcancellation insurance, and other details, including your age. In the space that asks for destination country, country simply enter one of the countries whose port (or ports) your cruise will visit.

to a remote island for a short guided hike through an oldgrowth forest where they are taught such surviva survi l skills as how to build a shelter, shelter how to identify edibles and how to light a fire. Back on board the expedition’s catamaran, guests will pursue green crabs, an inva in sive si species that has become a threat to the local ecosystem. The trave tra lers will haul sampling crab pots, look for evidence of the crabs, and record their findings for the Unive Uni rsity of Alaska. For more infor inf mation, go to www.allenmarinetours. com, e-mail ketchikaninfo@allenmarine hikaninf hikaninfo@allenmarine . com, or call 907-225-8100.

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TRAVEL SCENE

Moisture Sensor Aqualift Hoses 17

50plus August 2012 The Eagle • theeagle.com 18

Women empowered by opening up about menopause (ARA) - Most women remember having ha “the talk” with their mother. In that crucial time just befor bef e puberty, ty moms provide ty, guidance and wisdom about the changes our bodies go through. But later in life, women experience another important time of change - menopause - and many approach it without the comf t and connection that comfor comes from talking to other women about what they are experiencing. However, er women are er, ready to change that - and as many as 80 percent of women believe it’s time for the conve con rsation about menopause to change, according to a recent study conducted by Harris Interacti for Poise brand. Interactive Despite the fact that most women go through menopause, many feel anxiety about it. The study also found that more than 50 percent of women say that anxiety about menopause is caused by not knowing enough about this life stage. And when only 5 percent of women can name the top five symptoms of menopause, as the study found, it’s no wonder that women are concerned about not knowing what’s coming next. “The symptoms of menopause can vary widely,” says Dr. Cindy Long, an OBGYN and former OB-GYN department chair at North Suburban Medical Center. “Some women will describe very minimal symptoms and many others may have ha severe, sometimes distressing symptoms. Many women are looking for non-medical options to help provide comf t from the variety comfor of symptoms they may experience.” In an effo ef rt to help women approach menopause with confidence, Poise brand is starting The 2nd Talk, a whole new way to talk about this life stage. The company is also introducing a line of feminine wellness products designed to provide comfor comf t during menopause from hot flashes, vaginal dryness and

odor. At the website The2ndTalk.com, women can read others’ stories about going through menopause, as well as get expert advice ad through a question and answer section, articles and more. Talking to other women who are going through menopause is an important way to gain knowledge while also finding support and fellowship. Having Ha a dedicated venue to get the conve con rsation started can give gi women more confidence to bring the subject up in other situations. “No doubt, it can be more fun to chat about vacations, movies or grandkids, but didn’t we share our concerns about pregnancies and childbirth when those topics were on our minds?” asks Dr. Vivian Vi Diller a clinical Diller, psychologist. “By starting the conve con rsation about menopause with openness and confidence - and even a sense of humor - we make it more comfor comf table for women to express what they’re feeling.” Ha Having access to a community of supportive ti tive women can help make the stresses of menopause seem less daunting, and even of offer opportunities to find humor and connection in the experience. “Every woman can benefit from educating herself about physical and emotional symptoms,” says Diller. “We “W need to overcome our need for this long-standing cover-up and let the big secret out.” When you make the effo ef rt to educate yourself, make sure you’re also starting the conve con rsation with other women. Whether it’s a friend, a sister or someone else, you might be able to help her - or learn more yourself - simply by reaching out and speaking up. Go to The2ndTalk.com to learn more about your symptoms from experts, get questions answered and help Poise rally 1 million women to join The 2nd Talk by World Menopause Day on Oct. 18.

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

www.GBSABCS.com

t un co is d a e iv ce re s en tiz ci r o ni se 1000 GEORGE BUSH DRIVE WEST COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS 77845

979.691.4000 bushlibrary.tamu.edu

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Living smarter today for a safer tomorrow Planning for the best in life? Then start by preparing for the worst with these safety must-haves. By Dana Da Carm Ca an CTW Features atur atures

Donating blood saves lives Matur Life Mature Lif Matters Matter

There’s a need for a blood donation every two seconds in the United States, according to America’s Blood Centers, a network or of nonprofit ork community blood centers across the country. Because there is no known substitute for human blood and it cannot be manufactur uf ufactur ed, the entire process relies on donations of real blood from people willing to give gi . And there’s a shortage of donated blood across the country. “An average of 44,000 blood donations are needed each and every day to meet the needs of accident victims, cancer patients, and children with blood disorders,” said Stephanie Millian, director of biomedical communications at the American Red Cross in Washington, D.C. “Maintaining sufficient suf blood to meet patient needs is a delicate balance between supply and demand.” There are four main redblood-cell types: A, B, AB and O. Each type can be either

positi or negative positive ti for the Rh tive factor. A person’s blood type is determined genetically, or passed down from generation to generation. AB is the unive uni rsal recipient and O is the uni rsal donor of red blood unive cells. According to the Red Cross, there are four types of transfusable products that can be derive deri d from a blood donation: red cells, platelets, plasma, and cryoprecipitate. On average, more than one component is produced from a pint of donated blood and each donation has the potential to save sa up to three li s. live “The Red Cross collects and processes more than 40 percent of the nation’s blood supply -- approximately 6 million units of blood each year from nearly near 4 million volunteer blood donors,” said Millian. “These units are then manufactur uf ufactur ed into about 9 million transfusable blood products for patients at approximately 3,000 hospitals and transfusion centers across the country.”

The Garden: Memory Support at Crestview Safe and Sound. And happy, too! That’s how we describe e tthe pampered residents of The Garden. Here, residents enjoy an enviro env nment rich with wit memory ory or support activit activities ivities inspired by the Montessori Method. Music fillss the t halls, comfort-food aromas drift from m the t kitchen. Days include sensory ory or games, roundtable discussions, dancing, and even baking cookies in the country ntry kitchen. It is life the way it used to be—the way they remember it. ntr

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she says, look around the house and consider whether or not the space is one that will continue to work in years to come. (Are there a lot of stairs? Are the rooms big enough?) If stairs are an issue, outside of moving to a new residence, there are a few fixes. One option is to install a stair lift – also referred to as a glider – which is a chair to lift one to an upper floor. Depending on budget and how many floors or stairs are a na ational issue, an elevator or lift navig may be an option. Additionally, outfit the rooms

may want to stock a few things to assist in the event of injury. One such thing is making sure a cellular phone is always within reach if not in the pocket. Walker recommends the Jitterbug phone, with an easy-tosee screen and easy-to-dial keypad. Sometimes, unfor unf tunately, dialing a cell phone isn’t an option due to a fall or other life-threatening emergency. In these cases, a personal emergency response system may help. A helpbutton device is worn and pushed when needed. In some cases, even when not pushed, the device may detect a fall and respond. All experts agree, however, er er, on three major things, which cost nothing and are the most effective effecti fective ways to help ensure a longer independent life in one’s home: exercise, good nutrition and socialization. “People need to plan not to become isolated,” Kennedy says. Keeping friends, making new friends, staying close with family – all those things are critical as people age, he notes. Living Li alone and being alone are two differ dif ent things. Remaining social also means remaining active, acti and intellectual stimulation is important, Kennedy says.

August 2012

People are living li a whole lot longer. This isn’t new infor inf mation by any means, but its relevance persists. Because many will age into their 80s and beyond, it’s time, now, to start planning for life much, much later than 50 Because it’s not just that people are living li well past the age of 80 that is notable. It’s that citizens over 80 are living li well. More, they’re remaining independent and safe at home through products, services and a mindset that is geared toward aging without getting old. Susan Ayers Walker, er founder er, and managing director of the SmartSilvers Alliance in Menlo Park, Calif., says that there are three big disability issues facing older adults: loss of mobility, mobility loss of sight and loss of hearing. She suggests considering family history and current health status for clues as to what one might be facing. For example, if a parent had macular degeneration, could that be in the future? Similarly Similarly, ly, are there currently back problems or knee problems limiting movement? If so,

where the most time is spent to be as safe as possible. “One of the biggest things you have ha to worry about as you get older is your balance and the opportunity for a fall,” Walker says, “because if you fall, it can be a lifealtering challenge for you.” One of the slipperiest of places is of course the bathroom. An easy solution is the grab bar, bar positioned for use in or out of the shower. And these have ha come a long way, notes Walker. Another design element to consider suggests Dr. Gary Kennedy, consider, director of the division di of geriatric psychiatry at Montefiore Medical Center in New York, is to create a shower drain flush with the rest of the floor so there is nothing to step over or into for showering. Speaking of stepping, removing area rugs and keeping cords out of the way are among the AARP’s recommendations. Gabi Redfor df d, editorial projects dfor manager for AARP The Magazine, notes that “the number of people who fall in the middle of the night is enormous” and reiterates Walker’s sentiment that falls can have ha huge health consequences. While these items and elements can help prevent injury, injury seniors

To catch a better glimpse of this lifestyle, call Eva at 979-776-4778.

Thanks for voting us #1 in Bryan/College Station! 2505 East Villa Maria Rd. • Bryan, TX 77802 • www.crestviewrc.org AL#104850

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August 2012

Watercrest At Bryan Is Now Offering A New Program For Independent Living!

The New Personal Advantage Program is designed for individuals that are not ready for an assisted living facility, but would beneﬁt from some personalized attention. Some highlights of the program are 3 chef-prepared meals per day, weekly housekeeping, transportation services, specialized activities and 24 hour availability of a Personal Advantage Associate for emergencies and oversight. This is in addition to our beautiful apartment homes and numerous amenities.

SPECIAL RY INTRODUCTA PRICING IS AVAILABLE! CALL TODAY!

For More Information Call

1-888-738-8069

3801 East Crest DriveBryan (Corner of University Drive and Boonville Road) 20

marketing@watercrestbryan.comwww.watercrestbryan.com