may 2019
Diabetes
Exercise is important for keeping the disease in check
Hurt
Common lies we tell our hearts
Brain Health Is it possible to develop new neurons?
Phone Scams
How to deal with robocalls, spam and scams
Just for the health of it
Stay physically and mentally healthy and fit as you enter your senior years
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Crystal Dupre’
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Contents
Metro Creative Connection According to the Department of Health and Human Services, about $117 billion in annual health care costs in the United States is linked to a lack of physical activity. And that burden is not exclusive to the United States, as estimates from the World Health Organization suggest that the global cost of physical inactivity exceeds $54 billion annually. The WHO also notes that, worldwide, one in four adults and, perhaps most
3 Health information overload 4 Lies that can crush the heart 5 Wish you had more neurons? It seems possible 6 Just for the health of it 8 Dealing with phone spam, fraudulent calls 10 Calendar
TRUST
alarmingly, three in four adolescents between the ages of 11 and 17 do not currently meet the organization’s recommendations for physical activity. That’s unfortunate and potentially dangerous, as a lifestyle that includes routine physical activity has been linked to a number of benefits that can promote both short- and long-term health. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases notes that regular physical activity may help prevent or delay type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke. The NIDDK also says that regular physical activity may help people reduce their risk for certain cancers and maintain healthy body weights. Appropriate physical activities depend on various factors, including age and existing physical condition. Adults and children who want to become more physically active should speak with their physicians and get a comprehensive physical exam before beginning a new exercise regimen.
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Health information overload Q: I’m a type II diabetic who is not physically active. I’ve been dieting since I was 8 years old. While it doesn’t look like I’m trying, I fight and win food battles every day but it just takes one lost battle to put on the pounds. I’m really getting discouraged and overwhelmed. I read so much about what I need to do and what I shouldn’t do and often the information is contradictory. Can you provide me simple instructions on how to get started?
etc. I would encourage you to do some fast walking or walking that gets your heart rate into your target heart range for at least 20 minutes, preferably 30 minutes. Visit BVphysicaltherapy.com for instructions on how to calculate leon bradway heart rate. physical therapy If you don’t have 30 to 60 minutes all at once, try to do 10 to 15-minute increments Before I talk about food, you know you have to be when you can. Make sure to drink water before and more physically active. As someone once said, you can’t afford not to exercise. Exercise is that important, after you walk so you don’t get dehydrated. Water consumption in ounces should be half your body not only for losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight but also for healthy aging. You want to remain weight. Get into the habit of walking at a certain time every day. I jog versus walk but I make sure to independent as long as possible so you must “move”. do this every day. Make sure your physical activity is As we say at my physical therapy clinic, “bodies in something you can do three to four days per week. motion – leads to lifelong health.” We can make all Regarding food, there is a lot of information about kinds of excuses not to exercise but if you look closely at the lives of those who are healthy, you’ll notice they what to eat, how to cook, what to use when cooking, and so on. Since you are a type II diabetic you might make exercise a priority, they don’t miss work outs be interested in Dr. Hyman’s and/or Dr. Weil’s report and they let others know this is a priority for them. on eating healthy for diabetics. If your sugar level is Money and time should not be an excuse. Most not well controlled, you need to talk to your primary people can walk outside, in the park, in the mall, care physician and a nutritionist. First and foremost a diabetic should watch the amount of carbohydrates they consume, such as chips, potatoes, pasta, breads or cookies. A diabetic should not eat more than 25 grams of carbohydrates a day. Foods high in sugar should be excluded from your diet. Limiting high sugar foods and consuming protein and/or vegetables is a better combination to control diabetes. Diabetes is a chronic disease that will get worse over time if you don’t take action. Americans should cut down on the amount of red meats. You might try eating more soy products such as tofu (marinate in your favorite flavors), having fish, chicken and turkey meals. Regarding fat, most experts agree that olive and nut oils are good choices but use sparingly. We also need to eat more vegetables and fruit, trying to get a variety of colors every day. Fiber is another important part of food consumption. Males and females should eat 25 – 30 grams of fiber a day. Challenge yourself to count the number of fiber grams you consume each day. You will be totally surprised. A diabetic should eat more vegetables than fruit. If you have high cholesterol, consider shiitake mushrooms as they have a substance that encourages the body to use cholesterol. The key here is balance. Metro Creative Connection Don’t go overboard on exercise or diet. Try to eat healthfully each time you eat. Try to eat at least every Exercise is important, not only for losing weight and maintaining a 4 hours and have protein and carbohydrates together. healthy weight but also for healthy aging. T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E
Limit your dairy, animal protein and fats. In addition, consider organic or locally grown foods. Also, I personally believe we must be careful with plastics and some canned foods that can leach chemicals (BPA, PVC, etc) into our bodies. I personally store food in glass containers, don’t microwave anything in plastic, don’t use Styrofoam and look for the # 1, 2, or 4 when consuming beverages out of plastic. These numbers are considered safe and can be found on the bottom of the bottle. My father-in-law gave me great advice years ago. He said grow it yourself and cook it yourself. If food can stay on the shelf for weeks at a time it can’t be good for you. In essence, I try to stay away from processed foods when possible. Good luck with your efforts – just talking about your frustration means you are motivated to change. Be kind to yourself and forgive mistakes. You’ll be healthier before you know it. Visit our website for additional resources bvphysicaltherapy.com. Remember if your looking for someone to give advice on exercise and diet the Sports Back and Pain Management Clinic can do that for you. Everyone needs a motivator and coach! Dr. Leon F. Bradway, PT MS, OMPT – for more information on hip pain, visit our website at BVphysicaltherapy.com.
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Lies that can crush the heart Over 3000 years ago, a wise king named Solomon said, “Above all else, guard your heart; for it is the spring from which everything else in your life flows.” This world is tough on hearts. Solomon implies that our hearts are under assault. We come out of the womb looking for love and seeking to get our needs met. As we grow, we get hurt along the way. We receive messages from the people and world around us. Disappointment and loss strike. We discover that life is not always easy or accommodating. We struggle to make sense of things. Along the way, some of the messages we embrace are lies. They become thorns in our sides. They trip us up and hold us back. They sabotage our emotional well-being, our careers and our relationships. Here are five common lies that many of us battle with.
“I’m worthless.”
Most of us feel this at some point on some level. We don’t measure up. We’ve failed. “I’ve failed,” morphs into, “I’m a failure,” which then becomes, “I’m worthless.” And yet each of us is one of a kind in human history. There has never been another exactly like us, and there never will be again. We’re all unique, special, valuable and significant. This is true, apart from anything we’ve ever thought, said or done. It’s part of who we are. What if we told ourselves the truth? “I’m unique, valuable and significant.” You matter. You’re here for a reason. You have a mission – unique to you – that only you can live. Worthless? Far from it!
“I’ll never be __________ enough.”
Just fill in the blank. Not smart enough, attractive enough or good gary roe enough. Not talented hospice enough, strong enough or successful enough. Not enough. Wait a minute. Not enough for what? Not enough for whom? I’m not perfect. You’re not perfect. Neither is anyone else. If perfection is the goal, no one measures up. Perfectionism can rob us of joy and dismantle our confidence. We end up climbing onto a never-ending treadmill to chase a phantom that none of us can clearly define. “Not enough” usually comes from comparing ourselves with others. And when we compare, we lose. How do we guard our hearts against this lie? What’s the truth we need to embrace instead of “I’m not enough?” How about this? “I’m imperfect, and that’s okay.” Instead of slogging through life trying to be perfect, we can embrace imperfection and use it as fuel to launch us forward.
“I’m alone.”
Most of us feel alone sometimes – maybe even a lot. No one knows that thought in your head or what’s happening in your heart. But we all feel and think similar things in life. Each one of us is walking our own road while being surrounded by other people walking theirs. Life works much better when we walk together, support each other and cheer each other on. If we get hit enough in life, we tend to withdraw. To protect ourselves, we wall ourselves off from any potential threats
that might be lurking out there. We all tend to retreat when we’re hurting. Do we feel alone or lonely sometimes? Certainly. Are we alone? Far from it. We’re in this together. We’re designed for connection. Life is ultimately about relationships.
real “us” perfectly. None of us knows ourselves completely either. Our hearts are too intricate and complex. We are known by others to the degree that we allow ourselves to be known. We reveal our hearts through our words and actions. It’s our choice to share. It’s their choice to listen and accept us, or not. We all want to be seen. That’s part of the reason why we do the crazy, attention“I’m damaged.” getting things we do. The irony is that When we think we’re damaged, what when we take the time to see others, we we’re usually thinking – and believing – usually get seen by them in return. is that we’re beyond repair. What if we trained ourselves get out We’ve been wounded, perhaps deeply. of our own heads, observe, and see the Maybe we feel like we’re in a pit so deep that we can’t possibly get out. Perhaps we person in front of us? The world would be feel so bruised and broken that we believe a different place. Of course, we won’t be seen by no one will ever love us for who we really everyone. We will be seen, however, by are. those looking to connect, relate, and Maybe we feel rejected or betrayed. listen. A few of those people can make a Those close to us have done us wrong. massive difference in our lives. We’ve been replaced or cast aside. What’s the truth? Perhaps the abuse and pain of the past “As I see others, I will be seen by those is so great that we can’t see a way out. It hangs about us like a cloud and smothers who want to see me.” Lies anesthetize our hearts over our hearts. We feel dirty, worthless, and time. We can get discouraged and go ashamed. Maybe guilt is eating us alive. We can’t into hiding. Our hearts get buried under the weight of expectations, loss, and get over what we’ve thought, said, and disappointment. done. We must find our hearts and unearth Perhaps we’ve lost someone dear to us. Our hearts have been shattered into a them. We must identify the lies we’ve bought into over the years and replace million pieces. We can’t imagine a world them with the truth. When we live in without them. We feel like our lives are truth, everyone benefits. over. Wherever we are and in whatever The rejections, wounds, losses, and situation, our hearts are still our most failures of life can be heavy. Yet, even prized possession. They are the spring with all this, no one is beyond repair. No from which everything else in our lives one is beyond help and healing. No one. flows. What’s the truth? Discover your heart. Guard it. Live “I’ve been wounded, but I can heal.” from it. The world needs you.
“I’m invisible.”
“No one notices me. They don’t even know I’m here.” “No one knows the real me. I’m invisible.” It’s true that no one knows the
Gary Roe is an award-winning author, speaker, chaplain, and grief counselor with Hospice Brazos Valley. Visit Gary at www.garyroe.com, or contact him at 979821-2266 or groe@hospicebrazosvalley.org.
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Wish you had more neurons? It seems possible For over a decade, scientists have debated conflicting findings about whether the adult brain can develop new neurons. The confusion comes from technical limitations in identifying whether any given neuron is “new.” It is possible that certain neurons only seem to be new because of unique appearance and protein profile. They could have been there all along and just now discovered. Also, new neurons could come from residual stem cells left over from infancy. It is not likely that mature neurons ever divide, and there is no such evidence. A just-published study joins several prior studies in various labs indicating that new neurons can appear in healthy adult brains. The investigators, located at the Autonomous University of Madrid, analyzed postmortem brain tissue of 13 healthy individuals who were between 43 and 87 years old and of 45 patients with Alzheimer’s disease between 52 and 97 years old. They found evidence for new neurons in the brains of healthy patients, regardless of age, but the number was tens of thousands less in patients who had died from Alzheimer’s disease. Moreover, the more severe the Alzheimer lesions were, the fewer new neurons were seen. A biochemical signature of a new neuron is a protein called “doublecortin (DCX). Whether or not DCX can be detected is affected by how long a dead brain sits in preservative fluid. The protein will degrade and disappear with fixation times longer than 24 hours. This alone may account for some of the conflicting literature reports about new neurons. The study comparing healthy brains and Alzheimer brains was preceded a year earlier in which the same DCX marker demonstrated the presence of thousands of new neurons in adults who had died from conditions other than T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E
other types of cells, but this new study clearly shows the immature cells are becoming actual neurons. There is the limitation that even if older people can develop thousands of new neurons, the effect is most evident in the hippocampus and the memory functions performed by that part of the brain. While this gives hope that older people can stave off memory decline, other cognitive functions like intelligence and creativity are less likely to benefit directly from new neurons in the hippocampus. However, improving memory, by any means, should improve mental capability, because how much you know influences your ability to think. Incidentally, a lifetime of intense
Alzheimer’s disease. The new neurons were granule cells in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus, the brain area that consolidates dr. bill klemM declarative and the memory medic episodic memories. Prior studies in other labs that claimed to find new neurons usually found them in this same area. These prior studies used other markers of “newness,” and thus the evidence becomes more believable. The failure to see so many new neurons in Alzheimer patients argues against some kind of artifact to account for the finding of new neurons in brain-healthy people. The unanswered question is the mechanism that stimulates appearance of new neurons in the hippocampus. Is it a lifetime of intense mental activity? One of the established factors that can delay or prevent development of Alzheimer’s disease is a lifetime of intense mental activity. The reduction in new neurons in Alzheimer brains was independent of age. This suggests that this disease is being caused by something other than age. In a prior column, I summarized the evidence for some possible causes. Another important finding was that the loss of new cells in Alzheimer’s disease patients could occur even before the formation of many amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Thus, the reduction in new neuron formation could be a biomarker that the disease is developing. The problem is that at present there is no known way to detect new neurons noninvasively in a living person. A criticism of past experiments has been that the new neurons are immature and may be transforming into some
mental activity tends to forestall the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Perhaps, mental activity stimulates the emergence of new hippocampal neurons as reported here. To learn more about Dr. Klemm, see his web site: http://thankyoubrain. com and follow his “Improve Learning and Memory” blog site at http:// thankyoubrain.blogspot.com. His blog posts have over three million reader views. Source: E.P. Moreno-Jiménez et al., (2019). Adult hippocampal neurogenesis is abundant in neurologically healthy subjects and drops sharply in patients with Alzheimer’s disease,” Nature Medicine, doi:10.1038/s41591-019-0375-9, 2019.
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Just for the
HEALTH of it
An apple a day may not keep the doctor away forever, but there’s no reason you can’t stay physically and mentally healthy and fit as you enter your senior years
Daily steps to keep your heart healthy Metro Creative Connection
raising LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Read food labels before buying anything at the store. QQ Keep your mouth clean. Studies show that bacteria in the mouth involved in the development of gum disease can travel to the bloodstream and cause an elevation in C-reactive protein, a marker for blood vessel inflammation. Brush and floss twice daily, and be sure to schedule routine dental cleanings. QQ Get adequate shut-eye. Ensuring adequate sleep can improve heart health. One study found that young and middleage adults who regularly slept seven hours a night had less calcium in their arteries (a sign of early heart disease) compared to those who slept five hours or less or those who slept nine hours or more. QQ Adopt healthy eating habits. Changes to diet, including eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein, can help you lose and maintain a healthy weight, improve cholesterol levels and reduce blood pressure – leading to a healthier heart. QQ Embrace physical activity. Regular moderate exercise is great for the heart. It can occur at the gym, playing with the kids or even taking the stairs at work.
Heart disease is a formidable foe. According the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease accounts for nearly 25 percent of all deaths in the United States each year. Issues relating to the heart affect both men and women, and an estimated 15 million adults in the U.S. have coronary heart disease, the most common type of heart disease. And heart disease is not exclusive to the United States, as the Heart Research Institute says that every seven minutes in Canada someone dies from heart disease or stroke. Such statistics are disconcerting, but they can serve as a wake-up call that compels people to prioritize heart health. Fortunately, heart disease is often preventable and people can employ various strategies to reduce their risk. QQ Stop smoking right now. One of the best things to do to protect the heart is to stop smoking. The Heart Foundation indicates that smoking reduces oxygen in the blood and damages blood vessel walls. It also contributes to atherosclerosis, or a narrowing and clogging of the arteries. QQ Eat healthy fats. When eating, choose polyunsaturated and unsaturated fats and A healthy heart begins with daily avoid trans fats as much as possible. Trans fats increase one’s risk of developing habits that promote long-term heart heart disease by clogging arteries and health.
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Feel your best
starting with your stomach Metro Creative Connection Did you know that they key to personal health may begin in the core of the body? Doctors and researchers are learning more and more about how the immune system and other functions of the body are tied to microscopic players housed in the stomach and intestines. Improving this digestive environment can benefit the body in various ways.
Understanding probiotics
Bodily bacteria outnumber body cells by 10 to one, offers the health and wellness resource Healthline. Most of the bacteria in the body are harmless, and many of them in the gut actually are linked to numerous health benefits, such as weight loss, enhanced immune function, reduced risk of disease, and improved digestion. Unfortunately, bad bacteria also vie for space in the gut. If the good bacteria and yeasts, or probiotics, are not in abundance to push out the bad bacteria, like salmonella and E. coli, those bad bugs can proliferate, causing problems. It is essential to keep an abundance of probiotics available to stay healthy and maintain the “good vs. bad” balance in the gut.
example, probiotic-rich foods and supplements can more readily replace what’s lost. Dietary sources of probiotics include some yogurts, cheeses, kefir, sauerkraut, miso, kimchi, pickles, and beverages like kombucha, a fermented tea. Getting probiotics from foods is the most natural way to supplement good gut bacteria, as the foods meld with the probiotics in ways that doctors may never understand to deliver the most benefits. The downside is it’s impossible to measure just how many probiotics can be acquired from foods. That is what makes supplementation so handy. Capsules and tablets are loaded with a variety of different active
bacteria and yeast cultures to aid the digestive system in measurable ratios. Some tout anywhere from one to 30 billion active colonyforming units (CFUs) per serving.
Side effects
Probiotics are generally healthy for people to consume in amounts found in foods, advises the Mayo Clinic. Most healthy adults can safely add foods or dietary supplements that contain probiotics to their diets. Introducing probiotics may cause temporary and mild flatulence, discomfort and bloating. Probiotics can be yet another tool to improve overall health at any age, but especially for adults looking to minimize illness risk.
Getting probiotics
While the body can be healthy without the addition of probiotics, having more can be beneficial. The Cleveland Clinic says that food and supplements containing probiotics assist the good bacteria already present in your gut. When a course of antibiotics wipes out both good and bad bacteria, for
Yogurt is a dietary source of probiotics, healthy bacteria and yeasts that may improve overall health.
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Tame stress and improve health Metro Creative Connection Stress can affect people of any age. While small amounts of stress may stimulate adrenaline responses and help people power through difficult projects or solve problems, chronic stress can impact the mind and body in harmful ways. WebMD defines stress as any change in the environment that requires the body to react and adjust in response. The body may react to stress physically, emotionally and/or mentally. Positive stress, called eustress, can take the form of getting a new job with greater responsibilities. However, it’s the bad stress – distress – that can cause tension and other negative consequences. Money, health and relationships are some of the common contributors to stress in the United States. Seventy-seven percent of Americans regularly experience physical symptoms caused by stress, and 73 percent experience psychological symptoms from stress. Statistics Canada indicated that, in 2014, the most recent year for which data is available, 23 percent of Canadians ages 15 and older (6.7 million people) reported that most days were “quite a bit” or “extremely” stressful. Stress can have many implications. When the body is stressed, muscles tense up and chronic stress can cause the muscles in the body to stay taut and tense for long periods of time, says the American Psychological Association. This may lead to tension headaches and musculoskeletal disorders. The Mayo Clinic advises that stress can cause fatigue, changes in sex drive, stomach upset, and difficulty sleeping. Stress also affects mood, potentially resulting in lack of motivation or focus, anxiety, sadness, and/or angry outbursts. Healthline links chronic stress to behaviors such as overeating, not eating enough, alcohol or drug abuse, and social withdrawal. Reducing stress is a priority for many people. Although it is not an easy undertaking, slowly removing stressors from one’s life and taking steps toward changing one’s responses to stressful situations can help. There are many stressmanagement strategies, and not every one is right for all individuals. However, the following techniques may be helpful. QQ Exercise: Regular physical activity can help reduce stress. QQ Meditation: Mindful meditation, deep breathing, yoga, and tai chi are ways to focus the brain away from stressful situations. QQ Socialization: Talking and spending time with friends or family can relieve stress. QQ Hobbies: Crafts, hobbies and other engaging activities can direct attention away from stress. QQ Talk therapy: Seeing a therapist may help some people work through stress and discover additional techniques to change how they respond to stress. QQ Situation changes: Changing a job, residence or a condition that removes a source of stress may be handy. Many people suffer from stress, which can be very harmful if not dealt with healthily and readily.
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Dealing with phone spam, fraudulent calls “Do NOT hang up! This is a very important message about your urgent request for a medical-grade orthotic device!” I heard that message boom out of someone else’s phone at the grocery store and chuckled – because I had just fielded the exact same call earlier that day. Yes, robocalls are on the rise. And the trend is showing no signs of slowing. According to call protection company First Orion, half of all mobile calls are expected to be spam by the end of 2019. Why is this happening? Well, for one, the technology to make spam calls is cheaper than ever. Thanks to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), a scammer is equipped to make thousands of automated calls. And those calls can pay off, too. The developers of a phone number search service Truecaller reported that scammers averaged $430 per successful phone call in 2017. Not a bad side hustle! What can you do to stop those annoying calls, or at the very least to ensure that they don’t catch you offguard?
Add your number to the National Do Not Call list
This won’t help with robocalls, but at least you don’t get any unsolicited calls from legitimate marketers. Go to www.donotcall.gov and check to see whether your number is already on the list (you will need an email address for verification). If your number is already on the list – great! If not, get it added.
Don’t let the scammers fool you
Fraudsters take advantage of your fear. They use big scary agency names to trick you into sharing your Social Security Number or making a “payment” via credit card. Remember and tell everyone you know: the IRS, DMV, and Social Security Administration would never call you to collect a debt. All legitimate communications from those agencies
happen by mail first.
Repeat after me: “Just let it go to voicemail!”
If you don’t recognize the caller’s TracY Stewart financial literacy number, don’t pick up. If you decide to answer a call from an unfamiliar number, don’t be too quick to identify yourself. Ask the caller to identify him or herself and state the reason for the call. If it’s a legitimate company and you don’t want to hear from them, it’s okay to ask that they remove you from the list. If the call is a scam, it’s bad enough that they have confirmed your number is in service. Don’t give them any more fodder by sharing your name, city, or any other personal details.
Explore your options for blocking scam calls
The easiest way to block the annoying number is to do it manually. The problem is that the scammer will figure it out quickly and “spoof” a different number for his next call. If you are looking for a more permanent solution, your carrier may have a robocall-blocking service included with your package (or available for a small fee). You might also look into scam call blocking apps. Here are two popular ones: Hiya is free, and Robokiller is $2.49 per month. The main difference between a carrier service and an app is that the carrier can block the call earlier in the chain, resulting in the scammer receiving a “busy” signal that “indicates” an out-ofservice number. The app will just stop your phone from ringing. Finally, you can use the “do not disturb” feature on your smartphone. Choose the numbers you trust from your contact list. Now, your phone will only allow “preferred” calls to come through (and send everyone else to voicemail). You should know that this method will result in fewest
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interruptions to your day, but you will need to check your voicemail for any legitimate calls you will have missed.
Don’t stop with your phone!
The fact that a scammer got a hold of your phone number may point to a bigger problem. So, be sure to check your bank statements and credit cards for unauthorized charges. Remember to review any other digital payment methods you use, like PayPal, Venmo, Apple Wallet, etc. Enable two-factor authentication on all payment gateways as an additional deterrent.
Dealing with phone spam – your way Remember that the phone number you see on your screen may not be real. Call spoofing software allows scammers to hide their real number from you. When in doubt, put the caller
on hold and call back using the number on the screen. Or, better yet, get their information and initiate your own call after you confirm a legitimate number. The most important thing to know about spam and scam phone calls is that no one is immune. Don’t be quick to trust a call from an unfamiliar number – the caller may be “phishing” for information or using your emotions to trick you into handing over your hard-earned money. Stay alert and shield yourself from scammers! Tracy Stewart, CPA consults on financial issues related to elder planning and divorce. She can be contacted at tracy@ TracyStewartCPA.com. Links: https://firstorion.com/nearly-50-of-u-s-mobile-traffic-will-bescam-calls-by-2019/ https://www.cnbc.com/2018/06/12/you-think-its-your-friendcalling-but-its-actually-this-growing-phone-scam.html
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Metro Creative Connection Emergency preparedness strategies save lives. Various preventive measures can protect people and their homes from the potentially devastating impact of natural disasters.
Emergency preparedness tips for seniors Metro Creative Connection Natural disasters can strike at any time, and when they do, the damage is often considerable. According to the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, between 2005 and 2014 natural disasters caused $1.4 trillion in damage across the globe, affecting 1.7 billion people along the way. Various preventive measures can protect people and their homes from the potentially devastating impact of natural disasters. For example, oceanfront communities may be able to decrease property damage by exacting certain measures, such as building homes on stilts. Another way to prevent tragedy related to natural disasters is to develop an emergency preparedness plan before the next storm strikes. That’s important for everyone, but especially so for seniors, many of whom live with mobility issues that can compromise their ability to escape the eye of oncoming storms. In recognition of the potential problems seniors face when natural disasters strike, the American Red Cross offers the following tips to seniors and their families so aging men and women can make it through such situations safe and sound. T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E
QQ Share your evacuation plans. In the wake of recent disasters, many communities that did not previously feel vulnerable to natural disasters have devised evacuation plans for residents. Seniors should share these plans with their support networks. Doing so makes it easier for relatives to find you if you must evacuate your home before help arrives. QQ Share important medical information. Seniors should share
QQ Make arrangements to contact loved ones. Prior to an emergency, seniors and their support network should make arrangements to make immediate contact once a disaster strikes. Determine who will make initial contact and how that contact will be made (i.e., via phone, text message, social media, etc.), as well as who will be responsible for providing assistance if necessary. Such a plan lets everyone within the support network know their precise responsibilities, which limits confusion in the sometimes hectic hours and days after disaster strikes. QQ Exchange keys. Make sure everyone in the support network has keys to seniors’ homes. In so doing, support networks are increasing the chances that someone will be able to reach potentially vulnerable seniors if the primary contacts are incapable of doing so. QQ Let others know where emergency supplies are kept. Everyone should have emergency supplies in their homes. Seniors should not take it for granted that such supplies can be easily found if they become incapacitated during a storm. Make sure such information can be easily accessed during a storm by emailing it to your support network and/or posting the information in a convenient location in your home, such as on the refrigerator.
medical information, such as healthcare providers and a list of the medications they’re taking. This can make things easier for emergency responders to successfully treat people who become incapacitated during storms. Emergency preparedness strategies save lives. More information about how seniors can prepare for emergencies is available at www.brazosceoc.org and www.redcross.org.
Local EMERGENCY NUMBERS BRYAN/COLLEGE STATION
Police, fire, ambulance: 911 Bryan water, wastewater, power outage: (979) 822-3777 College Station water, wastewater, power outage: (855) 528-4278 American Red Cross: (979) 776-8279 Brazos County Emergency Notification System Register online at brazosceoc.org/alerts
COUNTY
Brazos: (979) 821-1010 or (979) 821-1011 Burleson: (979) 567-2001 Grimes: (936) 873-4404 Leon: (903) 536-3158 or (903) 536-4407 Madison: (936) 348-3810 Robertson: (979) 828-5911 Washington: (979) 353-7683
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CALENDAR ONGOING
QQBirthday Celebration – Enjoy a potluck lunch and fellowship on the last Friday of each month. For ages 50+ from 11:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information contact Annie Williams at 979-764-3779 or awilliams@ cstx.gov.
QQB/CS Newcomers Club – The B/CS Newcomers Club is a women’s social club with membership open to both new and established residents. The club hosts a luncheon at the College Station Hilton the first Thursday of the month. For more information, visit newcomersclubbryancollegestation.com. QQBible Study at Lincoln Center – Join other senior adults every Thursday morning for Bible Study from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. ConMay 15 QQFamily History Computer Group: “Let’s tact Annie Williams at Lincoln Center at 979Talk About Ancestry.com” – presented by 764-3779 or awilliams@cstx.gov for more Shelby Rowan. She will show the group information. some tools on ancestry she has found helpful and then invite the group to share their Programs at Meyer Senior own helpful hints. At the Bob and Wanda & Community Center Meyer Senior and Community Center, 2275 2275 Dartmouth St., Dartmouth St. 9:30 a.m. Contact Jerry MarCollege Station kowich, jermar3537@suddenlink.net.
May 29 QQRamblers General Meeting: “Why People Came to Texas – Pre-1836” – presented by Jeff Carroll, local author, historian, Texas A&M and Blinn teacher, radio show host. AT A&M United Methodist Church, College Station, 9:30 a.m. Come early for coffee and join us after the meeting at lunch. Contact Shelby Rowan for more information at shelbyrowan@suddenlink.net.
Programs at Lincoln Recreation Center 1000 Eleanor St., College Station May 21 QQNutrition Education Classes – Each class will have cooking demonstrations, healthy recipes, helpful hints and giveaways; Free for ages 50+ from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. For more information, contact Annie Williams at 979-764-3779 or awilliams@cstx.gov.
May 22 QQMovie & Popcorn – Enjoy popcorn and a movie each month with friends. Free for ages 50+ from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Movie feature this month is “Steel Magnolias”. For more information contact Annie Williams at 979-764-3779 or awilliams@cstx.gov.
May 31
May 10, 17, 24, & 31
sion – Open to all adults 55+ from 1:30 QQAdult Coloring Class – Adults 55+ are to 3:30 p.m. who enjoy listening or playing invited to join the fun every Friday morning Classic Country or Bluegrass music. Bring from 9 a.m. to noon at the Bob & Wanda your instrument and invite a friend! For more Senior & Community Center. Adult coloring information contact Southwood Community books, crayons, & pens are provided or you Center at 979-764-6351 or email kpeterson@cstx.gov or cstx.gov/seniors. may bring your own.
May 11, 18, & 25 QQSaturday Senior Social – Enjoy an afternoon of coffee with friends, play games, dominoes or cards from 1 to 4 p.m. Free for 55+ with membership.
May 14, 21, & 28
QQJamboree Line Dance – Experienced and advanced line dancers meet to learn new dances & techniques at the Bob & Wanda Meyer Senior & community Center located at 2275 Dartmouth Street. For more information contact College Station Parks and May 9 QQBasic Jewelry Making – Learn how to Recreation Department, Senior Services at make basic earrings, bracelets and neck- 979-764-6371 or kpeterson@cstx.gov or laces or repair broken jewelry from 10 a.m. cstx.gov/seniors to noon. Our instructors Joe, Linda and Betty will offer expertise and guidance. You are May 15, 22 & 29 asked to bring your own beads. Free for 55+ QQLearn to Play 42 – Learn the popular domwith membership. inoes game of 42 every Wednesday morning, 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Free for 55+ with May 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, & 30 membership. For more information email QQForevercise – Class from 1:30 to 3 p.m. kpeterson@cstx.gov or cstx.gov/seniors. offers individuals exercise and healthy lifestyle tips. Exercises may be done while May 15, 22 & 29 standing or sitting in a chair. Free for 55+ QQBridge – The Meyer Center offers a sewith membership. For more information nior friendly environment to play bridge every email kpeterson@cstx.gov or cstx.gov/se- Wednesday from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Free for niors. 55+ with membership. For more information email kpeterson@cstx.gov or cstx.gov/ seniors. May 9, 16, 23, & 30 QQ42 Dominoes – Adults 55 + meet every Thursday to play “42” from 9:30 to 11:30 May 31 a.m. Free for 55+ with membership. For QQBingo & Birthday Celebration – Join us more information email kpeterson@cstx.gov from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. as we celebrate birthor cstx.gov/seniors. days each month with cake and bingo. Prizes awarded. Free for 55+ with membership.
May 9, 16, 23, & 30
QQGame Night – Adults 55 + are invited to join the fun every Thursday evening from 7 to 9 p.m. Table games are available or bring your own favorite game. Meet friends and enjoy a fun night out. Free for 55+ with membership. For more information email kpeterson@cstx.gov or cstx.gov/seniors.
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QQGame Night – Adults 55 + are invited to join the fun every Tuesday evening from 7 to 9 p.m. Table games and table tennis 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 or email kpeterson@cstx.gov or cstx.gov/seniors.
May 9, 10, 13, 14, 16, 17, 20, 21, 23, 24, 28, 30 & 31 QQSit & Fit – Join other adults 55+ for a gentle exercise class while sitting from noon to 1 p.m. Participants follow a video that features fat-burning aerobics and weight lifting exercises at Southwood Community Center. The Center is located at 1520 Rock Prairie Rd. For more information contact Southwood Community Center at 979-7646351 or email kpeterson@cstx.gov or cstx. gov/seniors.
May 9, 16, 23 & 30 QQMah-jongg – Adults 55+ interested in playing the game of Mah-jongg meet at Southwood Community Center from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Beginners welcome! For more information contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or email kpeterson@cstx. gov or cstx.gov/seniors.
May 11, 18 & 25 QQSaturday Senior Social – Enjoy an afternoon of coffee with friends, play games, dominoes or cards from 1 to 4 p.m.
May 14, 21 & 28
QQHand & Foot Canasta – All levels are invited learn how to play this fun card game Programs at Southwood Community Center from 1 to 4 p.m. 1520 Rock Prairie Rd., May 10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, College Station 29 & 31 QQForevercise – Class offers individuals exercise and healthy lifestyle practices from QQClassic Country & Bluegrass Jam Ses- 1:30 to 3 p.m. Exercises may be done while
ONGOING
T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E
monthly lectures on the history of our community and state. A reservation is necessary for lunch and the cost is $7. Lunch is served at 11:30 am. The speaker will begin at noon. Please make your reservation no later than the Friday before the luncheon by may 10, 17 & 24 Q Beginner Mixed Martial Arts & Self De- calling 979-764-6371 or email kpeterson@ fense – This beginner’s class from 2 to 3 cstx.gov or cstx.gov/seniors. p.m. focuses on Taekwondo and Jujitsu principles. Wear loose clothing, tennis shoes may 15, 22 & 29 or water shoes. Free for 55+ with member- Q Beginner Tai Chi – Beginner class for Seship. nior Adults 55+ from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Free with membership. standing or sitting in a chair. For more information contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or email kpeterson@ cstx.gov or cstx.gov/seniors.
may 10, 17, 24 & 31
Q Friday Bridge – Southwood Community Center offers a senior friendly environment to play bridge every Friday from 9 to 11:30 a.m. For more information contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or email kpeterson@cstx.gov or cstx.gov/ seniors.
may 15
may 16 Q Movie & Popcorn – Join us for a movie and popcorn every third Thursday at Southwood Community Center from 1 to 3 p.m. No reservation needed. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979764-6371 or kpeterson@cstx.gov or cstx. gov/seniors.
Q Exploring History Luncheon: A presentation on “The Wendish Museum” by Joyce may 23, 30 Bise – The College Station Historic Preser- Q Colored Pencil Drawing Class & More – vation Committee and the College Station Learn how to draw with colored pencils from Parks and Recreation Department present Ann Walton, an award-winning and certified
Texas Art Teacher. For ages 55+ from 2 to 4 p.m.
may 28 Q Potluck and Pizza Social – Bring your favorite dish to share. There will also be pizza and live music with the Jam Session. Players. The event will be held at the Southwood Community Center located at 1520 Rock Prairie Road from noon to 4 p.m. Reservations required. Please RSVP to 979-7646351 or kpeterson@cstx.gov.
may 30 Q Senior Dance – Adults 55+ are invited to enjoy an evening of dancing with a live DJ. The dance is held from 7 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 at 979-764-6371 or kpeterson@cstx.gov. If you have an event you would like listed in the monthly Seasoned calendar, please e-mail the details to kelli.weber@ theeagle.com.
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