Seasoned

may 2018

Honor

Learning from those who sacrificed their lives

Retirement

What to consider before making the big decision

Sleep

Smartphones may cause us to get less rest

Golf injuries Eliminating low back discomfort and injury

Texas Weekend of Remembrance

Memorial Day event slated for May 25–27 at Veterans Park & Athletic Complex

seasoned PUBLISHER

Crystal Dupre’

A monthly publication of The Eagle 1729 Briarcrest Drive, Bryan, TX 77802

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Discounts available to the over 50 crowd Metro Creative Connection Many people may not look forward to the day they turn 50, but cracking the half century mark can have its perks.

Many retailers and businesses offer discounts to people over 50, and the following are just a few ways to save some money. n Movie tickets: The cost of going to the movies has skyrocketed in recent years, as today’s theaters now offer an array of amenities and a better viewing experience than the theaters the over50 crowd grew up visiting. While film lovers may need to wait until they turn 60 to cash in on discount movie tickets, many chain movie theaters offer discounted tickets to older patrons. n Travel: Those over 50 may be able to save substantial amounts of money on travel simply by typing in their birthdays when purchasing tickets or planning trips. For example, people over the age of 62 are eligible to receive a 15 percent discount on the lowest available rail fare on most Amtrak trains. n Ancestry: As men and women age, many begin to develop a greater interest in their heritage. Those who join AARP (membership is available to men and women who are 50 or older) can receive a 30 percent discount on an Ancestry World Explorer membership in the first year they’re members. n Auto rentals: AARP members also are eligible to save up to 30 percent

on base rates for vehicle rentals at Avis. The discounts are applicable at participating locations in both the United States and Canada. n Hotels: Men and women over 50 may have extra time on their hands once their kids go off to college and then begin careers and families of their own. Many such adults use that extra free time to travel, which requires staying in hotels. Many hotels offer discounted rates to travelers over the age of 50, and such discounts may make it more affordable to book directly through hotel websites instead of using popular travel sites where rates tend to fluctuate by the minute. n Dining: Of course, many restaurants offer early bird specials for patrons who want to eat a little bit earlier than guests typically arrive for dinner. However, many chain restaurants also offer discounts to senior diners regardless of when they arrive. Such discounts are sometimes even applicable to both food and beverages. n Mobile phone services: Men and women over 50 may not have grown up with smartphones in their hands, but chances are they now cannot imagine life without them. Some mobile providers offer discounts to AARP members, while others may offer senior discounts to customers whether they’re AARP members or not.

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Contents

4 The power of service, honor and sacrifice 5 Texas or Florida? Choosing where to retire 6 Texas Weekend of Remembrance 8 Is the light of our lives killing us?

9 Golf and lower back injuries 10 Calendar Retirement can seem like it will never come for young professionals. But time can be a sieve, and retirement age can arrive in the blink of an eye. Young adults who have not planned accordingly for retirement can find themselves in financial straits at a point in their lives when they want to kick back and enjoy themselves. Financial experts from Money, CNN and The Motley Fool advise that financially solvent people should begin saving aggressively

for their retirements early on.

Ideally people should start saving in their 20s when they first leave school and begin their careers. The sooner one saves, the more time money has to grow. Vanguard says that the person who saves $4,500 per year over a career spanning 45 years can reach a goal of having more than $1 million in savings by the time he or she retires.

Compounding interest and investment matches from employers can further secure professionals’ financial futures.

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May 10, 2018 | 3

The power of service, honor and sacrifice In the late 1980’s and early 1990’s, I had the privilege of serving as a missionary in the islands of Japan. I quickly became fascinated by Japanese history, language and culture, especially their deep commitment to duty and loyalty. Bushido, or “the way of the warrior,” called for strict mental discipline and self-effacing humility.

The foundation of the code was “wethinking” rather than “me-thinking,” and this permeated daily Japanese life.

For example, when complimented, Japanese quickly deflected any praise aimed at them as individuals with the standard response, “Okagesama de.”

Literally, the phrase means “in your shadow.” This was their way of saying, “Thank you, but I am only able to do what I do because of you and all those who have gone before me.” This deep respect for the senpai and the sensei – those ahead of us who lead us and those who teach us – pervaded everyday Japanese life. They lived with great gratitude for what they had received, accompanied by a keen sense of obligation to pass it along.

Sir Isaac Newton said, “If I have seen further than others, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” The life we live today has been greatly influenced by those who have gone before us, who forged the trail and led the way.

We stand in the shadow of many who have stood up, stood out and made deep personal sacrifices. Moment by moment, we reap colossal benefits from courageous men and women who chose, at great personal cost, to make a difference.

As Memorial Day approaches, we prepare to honor those who have given their lives to protect us, our freedoms, and our way of life. We owe so much to so many that we have never met and will never meet. This holiday touches some of us to the core, as we remember friends, relatives, loved ones, spouses, parents and children who made the ultimate sacrifice. We live in their shadow. We stand on their shoulders.

The numbers are staggering.

Let’s consider just modern warfare.

Approximately 117,000 American military were killed in World War I and 417,000 in World War II. Another 37,000 died in Korea and 58,000 in Vietnam. gary roe Add another 7,000 hospice from the last quarter century in Afghanistan and Iraq. These numbers represent people. Soldiers.

Each one of them a son or daughter, completely unique in all of human history. There had never been another exactly like him or her and there never will be again. They went knowingly and willingly into harm’s way and laid down their lives for the greater good. We are the recipients of their courage, fortitude and sacrifice.

Some of these warriors suffered greatly, and all who knew and loved them suffered and grieved as well.

Hearts were broken. Families were disrupted. Lives were shattered. The freedoms that we enjoy have come at a terrible price. Freedom is certainly not free.

Freedom is also not necessarily the right to do what we want when we want.

Freedom gives us the right to be seen

and heard as individuals as we all work together to contribute to the greater good of our neighborhoods, workplaces, communities and country. Freedom demands that we rise above self-focused, self-absorbed living to something much larger and greater – a life of honorable service. And this kind of life demands humility and sacrifice.

In our world, most of our thinking seems to be about “me” rather than “we.” “What does this mean for me?”

“How does this affect me?” “Do I like this?” “How can I make this work for me?” Yet, if we look inside our own hearts, we know that life is about relationships. None of us are truly independent. We are all interdependent.

We’re in this together. And if we’re going to progress, heal, and live well (which includes preserving the freedoms we enjoy), it’s going to cost us. Most of the wonderful things we experience now are the result of someone somewhere getting outside of themselves and serving others for the greater good.

Today and Memorial Day (and hopefully many days in-between), we remember these freedom-protectors who gave their all. If they are personally known to us, we see their faces in our

minds and cherish their memory in our hearts. We speak their names. We read, share and tell their stories – over and over again. We will never forget.

We honor them by recalibrating our time and energies to live their legacy by pursuing lives of service and sacrifice.

Service. Honor. Sacrifice. What might this powerful threesome look like lived out in our homes and families? What would they look like modeled in our careers and workplaces? What would lifestyles based on sacrificial service look like in our neighborhoods and communities?

It begins with us – with me and you.

What will we do in response to those who have laid down their lives for us and the freedoms we enjoy? Our lives have been enhanced beyond our imagining by their sacrifices. Every day, we live in the shadow of their commitment and service. Each moment, we stand on the shoulders of these giants.

It is time for us to rise to the occasion.

We must never underestimate the power and influence of a single life – including our own. What will you do?

We-living is the product of wethinking. Shifting from “me” to “we” doesn’t happen overnight, however. If sacrificial service is to be a priority, it must be habitually practiced over time until it becomes part of our character.

If loving service to others can become as natural as breathing for even some of us, the world could be a dramatically different place.

Service, honor, and sacrifice. We have so many examples of these. We celebrate them this Memorial Day. We live in their shadow. We stand on their shoulders.

We relish and live in the freedom they protected. We will speak their names, tell their stories and live their legacy.

Gary Roe is an award-winning author, chaplain, and grief counselor with Hospice Brazos Valley. His latest book, Comfort for Grieving Hearts, was just released last month. Visit him at www.

METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION garyroe.com or contact him at groe@ hospicebrazosvalley.org or 979-821-2266.

As Memorial Day approaches, we prepare to honor those who have given their lives to protect us, our freedoms, and our way of life.

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Texas or Florida? Choosing where to retire If you are wondering about the right place to retire, you are not alone. A recent study from Merrill Lynch found that 37 percent of retirees have moved their homes, and another 27 percent anticipate making the move in the future. Whether you stay or go, your choice of retirement location will have profound impact on your life. What should you consider before making the big decision?

Do your research

Your due diligence should go well beyond daydreaming of hours to be spent enjoying better weather, more time with family, and lower taxes. A home move can be expensive and timeconsuming. While the effort and the expense may be well-worth it, do the math first.

When considering the financial aspects of the move, look at the differential costs. In other words, consider only the costs that would be

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different between the two locations. Let’s say you are thinking about staying in your home in Texas or moving to Colorado.

The expense of TracY Stewart shipping your financial literacy belongings qualifies as a differential cost. On the other hand, the cost of your monthly prescriptions doesn’t qualify, as you would have to pay for them no matter where you live.

This approach can help you focus on the expenses that matter most.

that’s otherwise dry and sunny). Shop at the local supermarkets, learn the driving routes, and make local friends.

The experience will give you fantastic insight into whether a location would be a good fit for you in the long run.

If you are wondering what to do with your current home during that time, think about subletting it. Websites like Airbnb can help you find someone to take over your current home, as well as help you find a place to test-drive your possible retirement location.

Do a test-drive

Gorgeous weather is certainly nice, but it’s actually your social network that can shape longevity and quality of life in retirement. According to the multi-year Blue Zones study from the National Geographic, community is a source of well-being, joy, and meaning as we age. Social engagement, connection over common interests or

Consider your social network

Vacationing in your dream destination isn’t the same as living there full-time. If you are in love with a location, consider doing a “test move” and living there for three to six months.

Ideally, you should time your extended stay with the least favorable time of the year (such as a rainy season in a place

a shared faith, and a friendly face to exchange hellos with on a daily walk can all make a difference. Be honest about your willingness to meet new people and think carefully before you choose a remote location with 15 miles between neighbors.

Get family buy-in

Where you choose to retire is your decision to make. However, getting family buy-in is a smart step. If you are moving to be closer to your kids, get clarity on what that means for you and for your family. Does your son envision a get-together dinner once a month while you are thinking about Sunday church visits, family lunches, and mid-week outings with your grandkids?

Does your daughter look forward to you taking over daily babysitting duties, while you cannot wait for the freedom

See retirement page 10

May 10, 2018 | 5

Texas Weekend of

REMEMBRANCE

New event aims to return Memorial Day to its original purpose Eagle Staff Report

The excitement is building in College Station for the inaugural Texas Weekend of Remembrance set for May 25-27, 2018 at Veterans Park & Athletic Complex.

Military members, veterans, their families, and everyone who would like to honor those who sacrificed their lives in service to our country are invited to attend. The goal is to set a new standard for commemoration events that honor fallen military men and women. The city pledges to do everything possible to make this an annual event that attracts people from across Texas to show their respect for our military men and women who have paid the ultimate price.

College Station boasts big-city amenities but retains a friendly, smalltown charm. The community is located within a threehour drive of more than 80 percent of the state’s population, including five of the nation’s 20 largest cities, and is widely known for its enthusiastic backing of our nation’s armed forces. It is also home to Texas A&M University, which has an outstanding military heritage and maintains a 2,000-member Corps of Cadets. More than 1,200 veterans were enrolled this past fall.

Based on the city’s initial review of Memorial Day weekend events, we are confident the Texas Weekend of Remembrance will help establish College Station as a premier annual destination for Memorial Day weekend.

For more information, call 979-764-3486, email parks@cstx. gov or visit the Stephen C. Beachy Central Park Office, located at 1000 Krenek Tap Road in College Station.

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Schedule of Events friday, may 25 Heroes Sports Softball & Flag Football Tournament: Noon – 10:30 p.m. n Men’s & Women’s Divisions. Three-game guarantee. Ages 18+.

Free to participate. Registration ends May 11.

saturday, may 26 Opening Ceremonies: 10 a.m. – Noon n Brazos Valley Patriot Guard Riders Procession n Parachute Jump-POW MIA – All Veteran Group n Presentation of Colors by the American Legion Color Guard n National Anthem performed by Morgan Ashley n Roll Call by Greg Bailey with Ship Bell provided by Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 937 n Welcome Remarks by BRIG GEN Joe E. Ramirez, Jr. ’79, USA (Ret.) n Keynote Address n Amazing Grace performed by James Mcneely, Jason Neuendorff & Leon Moore n Rifle Salute By The Ross Volunteers n Taps performed by the Texas A&M University Aggie Band Bugler

Photos courtesy of City of College Station texas Weekend of remembrance will have a balance of events that are both fun for families and pay respect to fallen military members. An opening ceremony is planned to have a Patriot Guard riders procession, parachute jump and keynote address along with a rifle salute and taps. Military members also will play in the athletic tournaments, and a military chaplain will give a Sunday service.

Military Booths & Activities: Noon – 6:30 p.m. n Brazos Valley Veterans Memorial Self-Guided Tours n Boot Camp Inflatable Obstacle Course n Zoomz Laser Tag n Home Depot Kids Workshop n Photo Opportunities with Military Vehicles Heroes Sports Softball & Flag Football Tournament: Noon – 7 p.m.

Musical Performances: 6 – 10:30 p.m.

Events Around Town saturday, may 26

monday, may 28

8 a.m. – Team RWB Memorial Day WOD & Ruck: During the route you will have the opportunity to share a quick story of a service member. Free admission.

Spence Park, 400 Joe Routt Blvd. in College Station.

8:30 - 9:30 a.m. – Brazos Valley WWA Flag Placement On Veteran Graves: Wreaths Across America will be honoring those who have lost their lives while serving our country by placing American flags on veteran graves in the BCS community. Free admission.

College Station City Cemetery, 2530 Texas Ave. in College Station and Bryan City Cemetery, 1111 N. Texas in Bryan. Information: 757-478-4747.

11 a.m. – Team RWB Memorial Day BBQ: Memorial Day BBQ after the WOD and Ruck. Come hang out at our BBQ and enjoy some great company! Free admission. Veterans Park Pavilion, 3101 Harvey Rd. in College Station.

sunday, may 27 2 p.m. – Vietnam Veterans Of America 937 Memorial Ceremony: The Memorial Day ceremony includes presentation of the flags, prayers, a speaker, reading of some of the 61 names on the local Vietnam Veterans Monument, family shares and benediction and retirement of the flags. Free admission. Clara Mounce Library, 201 E. 26th St. in Bryan. Information: 979-574-2434.

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11 a.m. – American Legion 159 Memorial Day Service: The American Legion will host the 2018 Memorial Day community-wide service. It features the presentation of colors, prayers, commentary of Memorial Day history, speech by a Gold Star mother, prayer and retirement of colors. Free Admission. Post 159, 101 Waco St. in Bryan. Information: 979-778-1936.

Visit cstx.gov/TWR for more information on must-see facilities in College Station.

sunday, may 27 Kids 1 Mile Fun Run (12 & Under): 8 - 8:30 a.m. n $10/child, shirts will be provided. Guardians can run alongside their children at no cost. Registration ends May 26. Benefiting Brazos Valley Cares.

Heroes Sports Softball & Flag Football Tournament: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

5K Run/Walk: 8:30 – 10 a.m. n $20/person, shirts will be provided. Registration ends May 26.

Benefiting Brazos Valley Cares.

Breakfast With U.S. Army Chaplain Jeremy Troutt: 10:30 a.m. – Noon Military Booths & Activities: Noon – 5 p.m. n Brazos Valley Veterans Memorial Self-Guided Tours n Boot Camp Inflatable Obstacle Course n Zoomz Laser Tag n Home Depot Kids Workshop n Photo Opportunities with Military Vehicles Musical Performances: 2:15 – 5 p.m.

May 10, 2018 | 7

Is the light of our lives killing us?

In Hamlet, Shakespeare coined the famous phrase, “To sleep–perchance to dream.” The context, what Hamlet feared he might dream if he died, is mostly ignored because it makes little sense. But the phrase is remembered. The phrase reminds us of the importance of sleep and dreams. Ever since Freud and Jung, dreams have been considered as a gateway to our unconscious mind and buried memories.

Dream content ranges from ecstasy to entertainment to insight to horror. Historically, dreams have been a source of religious revelation. Prophets, shamans, and other religious leaders have claimed they have been given special access to God via their dreams.

Dreams may well be trying to tell us something, but we seldom know what the real message is.

Sleep is necessary. Sleep helps to restore metabolic and endocrine processes. It allows the pineal gland to produce the anti-inflammatory and biological-clock chemical, melatonin. Sleep also releases growth hormone, and repairs and grows cells. Regular sleep and dream sleep consolidate memories from that day.

Smartphones give off blue light, which suppresses the brain’s release of melatonin and impairs sleep.

The latest studies in mice suggest that sleep opens up lymphaticlike channels in the brain to drain away toxic metabolites that develop during wakefulness.

Loss of sleep leads to disordered thinking. Sometimes people are dr. bill klem manipulated or forced to be sleep the memory medic deprived. Sleep deprivation is a common method of torture. It is also a way to degrade the ability to think straight. For example, the Japanese Aum cult used sleep deprivation as part of its brainwashing regimen to convince followers in 1995 to injure thousands of people by releasing Sarin gas in the subway during rush hour. Some religious groups use “sleep fasting” to promote inspiring spiritual visions, which are actually hallucinations.

A Gallup poll in 2013 reveals that 40% of all Americans get less than 6 hours of sleep per night, yet seven to nine hours of sleep is the optimal amount.

Sleep deprivation reduces workplace productivity, public safety and overall personal wellbeing. It also diminishes thinking ability. A basic reason that sleep deprivation diminishes brain function is that it decreases the metabolic rate in brain, especially in prefrontal cortex, thalamus, and temporal lobes of cortex. Young people are notorious for avoiding the optimal amount of sleep.

This brings up the subject of smartphones.

Really? Yes, really. Smartphones give off blue light, which suppresses the brain’s release of melatonin and impairs sleep. Especially among adolescents, smartphones have created a cultural tsunami that is making a whole generation sleep deprived, first from the time spent on electronic social media, secondly from the fact that teenagers with smartphones go to sleep later than other teenagers, and lastly from the sleep-suppressing effects of blue light.

Recall that a primary benefit of sleep: cleaning out brain metabolic waste products. If adolescent brains are not getting enough sleep, their brains may accumulate waste. Could this lead to increased incidence of Alzheimer’s Disease when this generation becomes elderly? In fact, maybe this is the explanation for the apparent increase in AD that we see now among the elderly. Flat screen television, and fluorescent and LED lighting also emit blue light.

Most of us illuminate our offices and homes with fluorescent and LED lighting. How many of us watch a couple hours of television before bedtime? For many of us, exposure to blue light dominates our waking hours and has been going on for decades.

Among the restorative functions of sleep may

8 | May 10, 2018

be dreaming, which of course is reduced if over-all sleep time is reduced. I have presented evidence that the immediate purpose of dreaming is to cause awakening after a person has had enough sleep. But an established long-term purpose is to form lasting memories of our wakeful experiences. Significant life events and memories are rehearsed in both regular sleep and dream sleep one to two and five to seven nights later. No one knows what the relationship is between dream content and the memories that are being consolidated. In any case, insufficient sleep will interfere with memory formation. Moreover, we need the antioxidant effect of melatonin. And children need their growth hormone.

Dr. Klemm summarizes the effects of sleep on the brain in his lay-audience book, Mental Biology. You can read the rave reviews at his web site, WRKlemm.com (click on “Author”).

Sources: Xie, L. et al. (2013). Sleep drives metabolite clearance from the adult brain. Science.

342(6156), 373-377. doi: 10.1126/science.1241224.

Hongo, Jun (2011). Last trial brings dark Aum era to end. The Japan Times, https://www. japantimes.co.jp/news/2011/11/22/reference/last-trial-brings-dark-aum-era-to-end/#.

WbauUsiGOUk. Accessed September 11, 2017.

Thomas, M., et al. (2000), Neural basis of alertness and cognitive performance impairments during sleepiness. I. Effects of 24 h of sleep deprivation on waking human regional brain activity. Journal of Sleep Research, 9: 335–352. doi:10.1046/j.13652869.2000.00225.x Flora, Carlin (2018). Are smart-phones really destroying the adolescent brain. Scientific American. February, pp. 30-37.

Klemm, W. R. 2011. Why does REM sleep occur? A Wake-up Hypothesis. Frontiers in Neuroscience. 5 (73): 1- 12. doi: 10.3389/fnsys.2011.00073 Van Rijn, E., Eichenlaub, J. B., & Lewis, P. A. (2015). The dream-lag effect: Selective processing of personally significant events during Rapid Eye Movement sleep, but not during Slow Wave Sleep. Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, 122, 98-109.

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Golf and lower back injuries the lower back anatomy. More serious day or two after a There are two main reasons why consequences are the same as those for round of golf or other almost 40 percent of amateur golfers tight hamstrings. experience chronic low back discomfort physical activity, such Weak glutes, butt muscles, can also as raking leaves. More and/or acute injury. The first is play a factor in low back discomfort. technical in nature and the other has to serious consequences Often times the low back muscles will cause the discs in do with muscular deficiencies. try to compensate for weak glutes From a technique perspective, there the back to wear out quicker, leading up to leon bradway placing additional stress on the lower are several very common swing faults physical therapy back. Of note, older male golfers I’ve a nerve impingement that can bring on low back issues. evaluated for back pain have poor glute from a slipped or bulging disc and/or First and foremost is reverse spine or a strength. a narrowing of the space between two leaning of the upper body back toward Awareness plays an essential role in vertebrae. The result can be sciatica, the target during the backswing. Not alleviating and/or eliminating low back buttock and/or leg pain, or numbness only does this fault not place the golfer discomfort and injury among golfers, in the lower extremity. in a good hitting position to initiate especially the older golfer. Identifying Tight hip flexors, seen mainly the downswing in the proper hitting the particular swing faults and muscle in women, causes the hip to rotate sequence, causing the upper body to deficiencies allows for the development dominate the swing, it often times leads anteriorly toward the front causing of a personalized exercise program an arching or swaying of the lower up to low back issues. that will isolate and correct the back. That, as discussed above with A close second is early extension or mechanism(s) causing the pain. This, S-posture, places excessive stress to a moving of the hips toward the ball usually during the downswing. As this occurs it traps or blocks the golfer’s hands and arms behind him, usually causing him to push or hook shots.

Increased upper back curvature and head lift generally accompany this fault. Stress is usually to the right lower back.

Finally, the S-posture or swaying (arching) of the lower back while at address over the ball places excessive stress to the lower back muscles. This position also will cause the abdominals to relax, which can lead up to reverse spine or loss of spine, impacting the swing sequence. This fault is typically seen more often in women and younger golfers.

Anatomically, regardless of swing faults, tight hamstrings in the back of the thigh or tight hip flexors in the front of the hip are major factors that contribute to low back discomfort.

Can you touch your toes without bending your knees? Tight hamstrings, which are seen mainly in men, may rotate the hip posteriorly toward the back causing the low back muscles to stretch and become taut. Early signs and symptoms include tightness in the METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION lower back after sitting for a prolonged Anatomically, regardless of swing faults, tight hamstrings in the back of the thigh or tight hip flexors in period of time and/or stiffness the the front of the hip are major factors that contribute to low back discomfort.

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without a doubt, is the key to painfree golf, regardless of how chronic or acute the condition has been. Dr. Leon F. Bradway PT MS OMPT at the Sports Back & Pain Management Clinic here in Bryan is an expert at identifying golf swing faults to help eliminate your back pain problem.

Case in point is Bill from College Station. An avid golfer, Bill had stopped playing due to pain in his lower back. Upon assessment, among other deficiencies, it was discovered that Bill’s, left lower back muscles and glutes were weak, he shifted his left hip early on extension swing due to a hypermobile hip joint, hamstrings were extremely tight and he showed a marked imbalance in his follow through swing strength. A corrective program to isolate these areas has brought Bill relief and he is now back on the golf course. Here’s what he had to say: “I had been experiencing lower right side back pain for a couple of months that was so bad that I was not able to play golf and experienced constant pain. During that period I saw my primary care provider, had a spinal injection (my back and leg pain came back) and I was told I might need spinal surgery. I had an evaluation with Dr. Bradway and he sat me down and explained to me exactly why I was having my lower back pain. He developed a program for me and told me that if I followed his therapy program and corrected some of the deficiencies he noted during my evaluation it would solve my back problem. Guess what? My back pain problem is solved! I’m back to playing 18 holes of golf and my back doesn’t hurt anymore. What a great feeling.”

Leon Bradway is a doctor of physical therapy and director of the Sports, Back and Pain Management Clinic. See www. bvphysicaltherapy.com.

May 10, 2018 | 9

CALENDAR Ongoing Beginner Mixed Martial Arts & Self Defense for Seniors - Adults 55+ are invited to join this beginner’s class at the Southwood Community Center from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays in May. This beginners class focuses on Taekwondo and Jujitsu principles. Wear loose clothing, tennis shoes or water shoes.

Line Dance Workshop for Beginners Adults 55+ are invited to learn the latest line dance steps and terminology. Join us at Southwood Community Center from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Monday of each month.

No registration necessary. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371, email kpeterson@cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/seniors.

Line Dancing - Join other adults 55+ as they line dance to the hottest tunes and enjoy a great low impact aerobic workout. The group meets every Tuesday and Friday from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Southwood Community Center located at 1520 Rock Prairie Road. For more information contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351, email kpeterson@cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/ seniors.

Sit & Fit - Join other adults 55+ for a gentle exercise class while sitting. Participants follow a video that features fat-burning aerobics and weight lifting exercises. Sit & Fit meets every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from noon to 1 p.m. at Southwood Community Center. The Center is located at 1520 Rock Prairie Rd. For more information contact Southwood Community Center at

retirement from page 5

to explore your new neighborhood?

It’s critical to talk about everyone’s expectations because a mismatch can create stress and friction.

Even if family location isn’t a factor for your move in retirement, family will likely be affected by your choice. Hear their concerns and walk them through your reasoning, as this conversation can bring you closer together.

located at 1520 Rock Prairie Rd. For more information contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351, email kpeterson@ cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/seniors.

BCS Newcomers Club - The BCS Newcomers club is a women’s social club with membership open to both new and established residents of the Bryan-College Station area with a mission to provide opportunities to develop lasting friendships. The club hosts a luncheon at Pebble Creek once a month, as well as activities such as bridge, bunco, Mahjongg, coffees, tours and dining out throughout the year. For more information, contact membership director Carolyn More, 979-255-3412 or visit www.newcomersclubbryancollegestation.com.

979-764-6351, email kpeterson@cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/seniors.

Classic Country & Bluegrass Jam Session - Open to all adults 55+ who enjoy listening or playing Classic Country or Bluegrass music. Bring string instruments and invite a friend! Join us every Tuesday for a Jam Session at Southwood Community Center, located at 1520 Rock Prairie Rd. from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. All levels welcome including beginners! For more information contact Southwood Community Center at 979-7646351, email kpeterson@cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/seniors.

Game Night - Adults 55+ are invited to join the fun every Tuesday evening from 7 to 9 p.m. at Southwood Community Center. Table games and table tennis are available or bring your own favorite game. Meet friends and enjoy a fun game night. For more information contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351, email kpeterson@ cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/seniors.

Learn to Play 42 - Learn the popular dominoes game of 42 every Wednesday from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Rd. For more information contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351, email kpeterson@ cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/seniors.

Forevercise - Forevercise is an exercise class for adults 55+ and offered on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at Southwood Community Center. Class offers individuals healthy lifestyle practices and exercise. Exercises may be done while standing or sitting in a chair. For more information contact Southwood Community

Center at 979-764-6351, email kpeterson@ cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/seniors.

Indoor Walking Group for Seniors - Join our instructor, Ms. Susan Lehr in our free indoor walking class weekly to get your heart rate up with a fun, go-at-your-own pace environment. Class is offered at Southwood Community Center on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 8:30 to 9 a.m. No registration necessary. For more information contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351, email kpeterson@cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/ seniors.

Mah Jongg - Adults 55+ interested in playing the game of Mah Jongg meet at Southwood Community Center on Thursdays from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Beginners welcome! For more information contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351, email kpeterson@ cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/seniors.

Bible Study at Lincoln Center - Join other senior adults every Thursday morning at Lincoln Center, 1000 Eleanor Street in College Station, for Bible Study from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Contact Annie Williams at Lincoln Center at 979-764-3779 or email awilliams@ cstx.gov for more information.

Play “42” Dominoes - Adults 55+ meet every Thursday to play “42” at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Rd. from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. For more information contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351, email kpeterson@cstx. gov or visit cstx.gov/seniors.

Friday Bridge - Southwood Community Center offers a senior friendly environment to play bridge every Friday from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Southwood Community Center is

Plan ahead

that order milk via the Internet before you run out are just some examples), but the degree to which your home and community of choice are retirementfriendly will still make a difference.

friends, think about your future needs – but have the courage to choose what’s best for you. Don’t let uncertainty and fear of change hold you back from enjoying life in retirement!

Choosing where to live in retirement

Tracy Stewart, CPA consults on financial issues related to elder planning and divorce. She can be contacted at tracy@ TracyStewartCPA.com.

Depending on your age, health, and plans, later-life practicality may come into your location decision. Think about your needs in the near future and 10 to 20 years down the line. Are there local services that would support you if you were temporarily unable to drive?

What elder care services are available in your new community? How much home can you comfortably take care of ? Technology may make elder living easier in the future (driverless cars, cleaning robots, and smart refrigerators

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As you weigh the pros and cons of your options, remember that you are making a decision based on what you know today. No amount of careful research can give you a crystal ball!

Take your time, talk to family and

May 2 Computer Club for Seniors: Microsoft Word Tips & Tricks taught by Sherry McKenzie - The Computer Club is open to all adults 55+. This meeting will be held at the Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road from 9:30 to 11 a.m. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371, email kpeterson@cstx. gov or visit cstx.gov/seniors.

May 19 May Family Movie - Bring the family to Larry J. Ringer Library, 1818 Harvey Mitchel Parkway in College Station, for an animated PG movie based on a children’s book about a nice bull. For more information, call 979764-3416.

Source: https://agewave.com/what-we-do/landmark-researchand-consulting/research-studies/home-in-retirement-morefreedom-new-choices/ T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

Brain-healthy habits to embrace damage blood vessels.

Metro Creative Connection The Alzheimer’s Association says that more than five million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. By 2050, that number could rise to as high as 16 million people. More than 747,000 Canadians are living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia, says the Canadian Alzheimer’s Association.

Although there is no definitive way to prevent dementia, living a long, vibrant life may be possible by encouraging some healthy habits for the brain. It is never too late or too early to begin health and lifestyle changes.

that older people who vigorously exercise performed better on cognitive tests than others of the same age, placing them at the equivalent of 10 years younger. Increased blood flow that occurs with physical activity may help generate new neurons in the hippocampus, an area of the brain involved with learning and memory.

The Harvard Medical School says aerobic exercise may help improve brain tissue by improving blood flow and reducing the chances of injury to the brain from cholesterol buildup in blood vessels.

Exercise

The Alzheimer’s Association Consume caffeine indicates that evidence shows smoking Caffeine may help boost memory increases the risk of cognitive decline. performance and brain health. A Smoking can impair blood flow to the Journal of Nutrition study found people brain and cause small strokes that may ages 70 and older who consumed more

Becoming more active can improve brain volume, reduce risk for dementia and improve thinking and memory skills. The journal Neurology found

calendar

from page 10

May 15

Eat healthy foods

Foods that are good for the heart and blood vessels also are good for the brain. These include fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fishbased proteins, unsaturated fats, and foods containing omega-3 fatty acids.

Neurologists state that, while research on diet and cognitive function is limited, diets, such as Mediterranean and Mediterranean-DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), may contribute to a lower risk of cognitive issues.

Quit smoking

meeting is held at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Rd starting at 9:30 am. Visitors welcome! For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371, email kpeterson@cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/seniors.

Movie & Popcorn - Join us for a movie and popcorn every third Thursday at Southwood Community Center from 1 to 3 May 24 p.m. No registration needed. For more information contact Monthly Dance - Adults 55 + are invited to enjoy an eveCollege Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior ning of dancing with a live DJ at Southwood Community Services at 979-764-6371, email kpeterson@cstx.gov or Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Rd. The dance is held from 7 visit cstx.gov/seniors. to 9 p.m. Door prizes and light refreshments served. No reservation needed. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services May 16 Exploring History Luncheon: Ms. Lindsey Guindi of at 979-764-6371, email kpeterson@cstx.gov or visit cstx.

Temple Freda - The College Station Historic Preservation gov/seniors.

Committee and the College Station Parks and Recreation Department present monthly lectures on the history of May 25 our community and state. The luncheon will be held at the Bingo & Birthday Celebration - Join us on the last Friday Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road. A of each month from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. at Southwood Comreservation is necessary for lunch and the cost is $7.00. munity Center for bingo and cake as we celebrate monthly Lunch is served at 11:30 am. The speaker will begin at birthdays! Prizes donated by Signature Select Services. No noon. Please make your reservation no later than the Fri- registration necessary. Call 979-764-6351 for more inforday before the luncheon by calling 979-764-6371, emailing mation. kpeterson@cstx.gov or visiting cstx.gov/seniors.

May 21

are reading. For more details, call 979-764-3416.

If you have an event you would like listed in the monthly Seasoned calendar, please e-mail the details to kelli. weber@theeagle.com.

Care

That’s At Home, Wherever You Live.

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June 5

Afternoon Book Club - Larry J. Ringer Library, at 1818 Senior Advisory Committee Meeting - The Senior Advi- Harvey Mitchell Parkway in College Station, will host a book sory Committee meets on the last Monday of the month club on the first Tuesday of every month at 5:30 p.m. For to discuss programs and activities for adults 55 +. The this June meeting, Open Book Club, discuss any book you T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

caffeine scored better on tests of mental function than those who consumed less caffeine. Caffeine may help improve attention span, cognitive function and feelings of well-being. Information from Psychology Today also indicates caffeine may help in the storage of dopamine, which can reduce feelings of depression and anxiety. In addition, compounds in cocoa and coffee beans may improve vascular health and help repair cellular damage due to high antioxidant levels.

A good way to combine these lifestyle factors is to take an exercise class with friends, mixing the social, stimulation and exercise recommendations together.

Cognitive decline can come with aging, but through healthy habits, people can reduce their risk of memory loss and dementia.

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