septemBer 2018
Stroke
Rehabilitation is important for recovery
Impact
Making a difference in a distracted world
Longevity
Psychological traits that influence how well we age
Medicare
Mistakes to avoid when it’s time to enroll
Fall festivities Upcoming festivals and fairs around the Brazos Valley
seasoned PUBLISHER
Crystal Dupré
A monthly publication of The Eagle 1729 Briarcrest Drive, Bryan, TX 77802
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Linda Brinkman DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING
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Contents
3 Recovering after a stroke
4 Make an impact in a distracted world
5 Psychological traits determine mental, physical well-being
6 Upcoming festivals and fairs around the Brazos Valley
8 Common Medicare mistakes to avoid
10 Calendar
2 | September 6, 2018
When is clumsiness a cause for concern? Metro Creative Connection Who hasn’t tripped over his own feet or knocked over a water glass on a table? No one is immune to the occasional clumsiness, but some people may grow concerned that their bouts of clumsiness are becoming more frequent. For healthy people, bumping into a wall when misjudging a corner or dropping silverware on the floor is often a minor, isolated incident. Lack of concentration or multitasking often may be to blame. In 2007, Professor Charles Swanik and a research team at the University of Delaware studied athletes to discover why some seem to be more injury prone than others. Researchers found that clumsy athletes’ brains seemed to have “slowed
processing speed,” which referred to how their brains understand new information and respond to it. But clumsiness also can be a sign of a bigger issue at play, namely motor problems within the brain. According to Taylor Harrison, MD, clinical instructor in the neuromuscular division of Emory University, coordination of the body is complicated and tied to both motor and senory systems. That means the eyes, brain, nerves, cerebellum, which specializes in coordination and balance, muscles and bones must work together. Clumsiness can result from stroke, seizure disorders, brain trauma or the presence of tumors, and other
See clumsiness page 9
T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E
Recovering after a stroke In order to understand the recovery and rehabilitation after a stroke, it is important to understand what has happened to the body when someone has a stroke. A stroke or “brain attack” occurs when a blood clot blocks an artery or when a blood vessel breaks, interrupting blood flow to an area of the brain. When either of these events happen, brain cells begin to die and brain damage occurs. This includes muscle and nerve damage. Depending on which area of the brain is affected and how much of the brain is affected, a person may lose their ability to speak, move certain body parts and process information. For example, when someone has a minor stroke, they may experience minor problems such as weakness in an arm or leg; however, if someone suffers a massive stroke, they may be paralyzed on one side of their body or lose their ability to speak. Because the stroke damages neuromuscular system, a very effective way to regain function is physical therapy. Physical therapists specialize in neuromuscular problems and how to solve them in a natural way. So whether the stroke was minor or massive, physical therapy can help the patient recover and provide education to help in the future. How much you can recover following a stroke depends on the size and location of the stroke, how quickly you receive care, and, in some cases, other preexisting health conditions. Rehabilitation should begin very soon after your stroke. The therapist’s main goal will be to help the patient return to independent normal activities at home, in the community and at work. The physical therapist will conduct an examination, evaluate the patient’s condition and develop a customized plan focusing on improving the patients functional abilities. Depending on the results of the severity of the stroke, other pre-existing conditions and the time lapse since the stroke, treatment will vary. For example, if a patient had a massive stroke, their initial goals are likely to include being able to move around in bed, sit up, transfer to a chair or wheelchair and walk with an assistive device such as a walker or cane. Stroke recovery continues throughout life. It may be years before a person’s maximum potential is reached if the damage is severe. For example, if the patient had a massive stroke and experienced paralysis on the left side, has been to therapy but is still experiencing difficulty performing daily activities, the patient needs additional therapy. No one should settle for less than they can achieve, so continue to T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E
look for an experienced physical therapist. Often due to insurance issues patients are discharged from inpatient physical therapy or home health physical therapy but can still receive physical therapy on an outpatient basis. It is essential that leon bradway the patient resolve any lingering physical therapy weakness, balance, and/or pain issues to improve their quality of life and help prevent accidents or falls in the future. On a general note, some people recover completely from a stroke. Unfortunately more than two-thirds of stroke survivors live with some type of disability despite diligent medical and rehabilitation efforts. So it is best to prevent strokes before they happen and thankfully up to 80 percent of strokes are preventable. Some risk factors for stroke cannot be changed, such as age, gender, family history, race (e.g., stroke death rates are higher for African Americans even at younger ages) and previous heart attack or stroke. But there are many other stroke risk factors that you can be changed with the following actions; QQ Control high blood pressure (take medication as prescribed) QQ Stop smoking QQ Reduce high cholesterol/increase HDL QQ Reduce risk of diabetes and/or tightly control diabetes QQ Reduce risk of carotid artery disease QQ Lose weight (try moderation, eliminating processed foods, eating fresh/healthy/whole) QQ Increase physical activity (walk, hire a trainer, join a class, stretch) QQ Reduce how you perceive/react to stress (deep breathing, cognitive therapy, quiet time) QQ Consider yoga (restorative yoga is improves blood/ oxygen flow) QQ Change your diet (avoid excess sugar, processed foods, eat organic/local) QQ Stay hydrated (most people are dehydrated, drink clean water – avoid plastic containers) As you can see, all of these risks can be reduced through lifestyle changes, such as improving your diet, reducing how you perceive and react to stress and regular exercise. Whether you have had a stroke or not, a physical therapist can help design an exercise program that will help strengthen your muscles, improve your balance, and improve your overall cardiovascular health. This is particularly important
for those who have suffered a stroke and fear or hopelessness is preventing their movement toward better health. Strokes are the fourth leading cause of death in America and a leading cause of adult disability. The sooner a stroke is identified and a person seeks medical attention, the better the outcome. The following mnemonic, taken from Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor’s book, My Stroke of Insight, is useful in helping to identify symptoms related to stroke: S = Speech, or problems with language T = Tingling, or numbness in your body R = Remember, or problems with thinking O = Off-balance, or problems with coordination K = Killer headache E = Eyes, or problems with vision A stroke is a medical emergency. Call 911. Dr. Leon Bradway PT MS OMPT is owner of the Sports, Back & Pain Management Clinic in Bryan. He has developed conditioning programs and rehabilitated division one college athletes, high school and middle school athletes and elite military forces. He believes that most injuries can be prevented and that no one should have to live in pain as there are natural solutions that work.
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September 6, 2018 | 3
Make an impact in a distracted world Many of us are frustrated. We typically don’t voice this. We smile and say, “I’m fine.” Inside, however, we’re churning. Our minds are spinning. We sense we’re going in circles, chasing our own tails. And we’re tired. Maybe exhausted. Life is busy. Our world is noisy and demanding. Most of us carry a mental (or physical) to-do list a mile long. Relational, vocational, financial and medical issues come knocking frequently. Guilt from past failures and missed opportunities weighs on us. Seething underneath it all is the fear of what might happen based on what has happened. All this combines to produce a hurried, frantic routine of distracted, fragmented living. If we’re not careful, we can get caught in the swirling spiral of self and end up chasing things that don’t matter much in the end. None of us wants to live like this. Deep down we know something is amiss. We need to be continually reminded that we›re here for a purpose. We’re designed to be impact people.
one phrase or short sentence. Don’t make it something to do but rather more about what kind of person you want to be.
Become a good (or better) listener
gary roe Difference-makers listen. hospice They’re interested in other people. They want to know about others’ lives, hopes and struggles. They deliberately get out of their own stuff to enter the world of the person in front of them. Sadly, listening has become a lost art. Most of us fake it well. We smile and nod while we wait for a chance to say what we’re thinking. Amid the digital age of selfies and the “live your dreams” mindset, impact people refuse to make life about themselves. Difference-makers’ thoughts and routines are consistently about other people and the greater good. Developing a difference-making heart begins with practicing the discipline of listening. I’m reminded of the adage: We have two ears, but only one mouth. The Biblical writer James said, “Be quick to listen, and slow to speak.” What is an impact person? Impact people are stellar listeners. An impact person is a difference-maker. Other people respect and follow them. Their advice, feedback and input are sought after. They are mentors who live Become a person of wisely. greater integrity We all know people like this. Chances are someone I say “become” here because none of us has arrived you know considers you to be an impact person in at the magical place of 100 percent integrity. We’re all their life. in process. We’re learning. Fundamentally, we are all impact people. We What does it mean to have integrity? are one-of-a-kind individuals who are unique in all Integrity flows from being an integrated person human history. Out of all the times and places where – whole and undivided. What you see is what you we could have been born and lived, we are here, now. get. No hidden agendas. No nefarious intent. No We’re wired for connection and designed for impact. manipulative motivations. Consistent honesty, The question, therefore, is not whether we will authenticity and trustworthiness. People of integrity have an impact, but what kind? are truthful, decent, sincere, honorable, humble and Here are five quick tips for becoming more of an safe. Their words and actions match. They know why impact person and making more of a difference than they’re here and what they’re about. They are whole perhaps you thought possible. and undivided. Again, it’s not about being perfect. That’s impossible. We all stumble in many ways. If we’re Decide what kind of impact you going to be difference makers, however, we all need want to have to grow and pursue greater integrity. We need to be I’m reminded of Stephen Covey’s book, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. He counsels us to on the road to becoming whole, undivided people “begin with the end in mind.” If we don’t know where who consistently resist the current of self-focused, we’re going, we might end up somewhere we don’t distracted living. want to be. Extrapolate forward and look at the end of your Make life about serving others life. When all is said and done, what kind of impact do Life is about relationships. Getting out of our own you want to have made? heads and entering another’s world brings perspective Don’t complicate this. Keep it simple. Limit it to and cultivates wisdom. When we meet others where
4 | September 6, 2018
they are and walk with them in their stuff (even for a few moments), something happens in our hearts. Life looks different. We see more of the big picture. Our souls rise from the sideline and become more fully engaged. As a bonus, genuine and heartfelt service can also promote healing of our own past wounds. It’s hard to be involved in soul-engaged service and still live in the past.
Be patient with yourself (and others)
Let’s face it. None of us are anywhere remotely close to being perfect. We’re going to fail – often. The key is learning to fail forward. It’s not what we did that matters most now, but what we do next. We can’t afford to let the glitches, gaffs, mistakes and past pain derail us. Life is too precious, and the stakes are too high. We must hold things loosely and release things quickly. If we want to become people of greater impact, we need to travel lighter than ever before. Be patient with yourself. There are seasons where everything seems to be a struggle. We inch forward, leaning into the wind. Three steps forward. Two steps back. At times, it may feel like we’re going backwards. Breathe deeply. Keep your eye on the goal. Don’t make things about you. Forgive others. Forgive yourself. Let the burdens go. Extend to others the patience and kindness you would want them to extend to you.
Have the impact you were designed for
Do you want to have the impact you were designed for? Begin with the end in mind. Decide what kind of impact you want to have. Whatever that is, it will involve listening well, pursuing greater integrity, and serving others for the greater good. Your life is not about you. It’s about us. Take heart. Life is a one-small-step-at-a-time affair. Take the next step. And then the next. And the next... Gary Roe is the award-winning author of multiple books, including the recently released Comfort for Grieving Hearts. A chaplain and grief counselor with Hospice Brazos Valley, Gary and has been featured recently on Dr. Laura, BeliefNet, and Wellness.com. Visit him at www.garyroe.com or contact him at groe@ hospicebrazosvalley.org or 979-821-2266. T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E
Psychological traits determine mental, physical well-being Throughout the world more people than ever are living past age 90, increasing from 7.8 million in 2000 to 16.5 million in 2015. In the U.S. today, statistics indicate that if you make it to age 65, the odds are very high that you will make it to 85. If you make it to 85, odds are very high that you will make it to 92. Mixed blessing as this is, most people dread the prospect of being demented and disabled in their older years. Is there a way to know your longevity prospects? Nothing is reliable, but an indication is your current memory ability, which I call the canary in your brain’s coal mine. I explain this in my eBook, Improve Your Memory for a
them of their younger family members, investigators evaluated the following mental health traits of resilience, optimism, depression, anxiety and perceived stress. Among their findings was a lack of gender difference. Compared to a younger cohort (age 51-75 years), the over-90 group had poorer physical health, as you would expect. However, the over-90 group had significantly greater mental health than the younger cohort. The oral interviews revealed that the 90-plus group were distinct in having: QQ Resilience QQ Optimism QQ Strong work ethic
Healthy Brain, which also explains a host of health and lifestyle things you can do to keep your aging brain sharp. Additionally, dr. bill klemM strong evidence is the memory medic accumulating that psychological traits will influence how well we age. For example, a recent study of Italians over 90 and their family members aged 51-75 years old has revealed that certain psychological traits correlate with optimal extreme aging. Based on interviews and a battery of psychological trait measures of the 90-plus group and the opinions about
The
Standard for ExcEllEncE
QQ Bonding with family QQ Religious beliefs and practice QQ Love of the land QQ Sense of self-efficacy QQ Will to persevere in the face of setbacks The interviews with younger family members confirmed the test and interview results and yielded a consensus opinion that the elderly dealt well with stress and always tried to exert control over life events. Further, these elderly had conspicuous ability to accept misfortune and respond with
See longevity page 10
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Fall FESTIVITIES Citizen’s State Bank in Caldwell. In addition, the Burleson County Czech Heritage Museum, at 200 E. Fawn Several fairs and festivals are coming St., will be open during the Kolache Fesup in and around the Brazos Valley, and attendees can enjoy festivities such as a tival from 10 a.m. to noon. For more information on the Kolache Kolache eating contest, food and wine sampling, wiener dog races, and shop- Festival, visit burlesoncountytx.com/ kolache-fest or call 979-567-0000. ping for arts and crafts and antiques.
Upcoming festivals and fairs around the Brazos Valley
Washington County Fair exhibitors or current exhibitor’s parents the opportunity to return to the show ring for a friendly, fun and maybe comical showmanship competition involving the species that they grew up showing. The entertainment line-up for the fair includes Trace Adkins, Robert Earl Keen, Randy Rogers Band, Josh Ward, Q Kyle Park and Dujka Brothers, among in the BraZos valley Washington County Fair other entertainers. Friday, Sept. 14 – Saturday, Sept. 22 For more information, visit www. 1305 E Blue Bell Rd, Brenham Q Kolache Festival washingtoncofair.com. The Washington County Fair, the Saturday, Sept. 9 • 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. oldest county fair in Texas, celebrates Downtown Caldwell The 34th annual festival will cover its 150th anniversary this year. Events Q Fiestas Patrias Mexicanas the Courthouse Square, as well as the include a rodeo, carnival, live music Sunday, Sept. 16 • Noon – 10 p.m. and concerts, food, a variety of livestock Downtown Bryan adjoining streets and businesses. The festival will feature the Kolache shows, arts and crafts, special attracFiesta Patrias Mexicanas will be held Bake Show as well as Czech bands, a tions, contests, commercial exhibits in historical Downtown Bryan between quilt show at the Civic Center, the crown- and more. A new event, the “Old Timer” 21st and 23rd streets. A parade will being of Miss Kolache Festival, an antique Showmanship Contest, will give former gin at noon and the festival will be held machinery and tractor show as well as a car show at Davidson Creek City Park, a Kolache Krunch 5K run/walk, more than 200 arts and crafts vendors and several food vendors. A Kolache eating contest will also take place at 11 a.m. To kick off festivities, a pre- festival dinner and dance will be held at the Burleson County Expo Center, at 905 State Highway 36 South, on Sept. 8. A dinner of sausage, sauerkraut, fixings and tea will be served from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. There will be a silent auction held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., and The Dujka Brothers, a Czech band from Texas, will provide polka music from 6 to 10 p.m. Tickets will Eagle file photo be pre-sold only and can be purchased at more than 50,000 kolaches are expected to be consumed at the annual Kolache Festival in caldwell. Eagle Staff reports
6 | September 6, 2018
from 1 to 10 p.m. Fiestas Patrias is a patriotic holiday in Mexico, the anniversary of Mexican Independence from Spain. Mexico’s celebration of independence does not celebrate the actual day of independence, but the call for an independent nation. Sept. 16 commemorates Father Miguel Hidalgo, the parish priest of the small town of Dolores, who called for Mexicans to rise up and overthrow Spanish rule. Grito de Dolores, the cry, is widely celebrated all over Mexico today. The celebration will feature traditional live music, traditional dance, traditional foods and traditional dress, as well as a kids area and a petting zoo. There will also be a Polaroid photobooth. For more information, visit www.fiestaspatrias.org or call 979-575-2910. Q Burleson County Fair Monday, Sept. 24 – Saturday, Sept. 29 905 Texas 36 South, Caldwell The Burleson County Fair will include livestock judging events, queen contest, creative living exhibits, a carnival and a parade. For more information, see the Burleson County Fair Association Facebook page. Q
Texas Reds Steak & Grape Festival
Friday, Sept. 28 – Sunday, Sept. 30 Downtown Bryan The 12th annual Texas Reds Steak & Grape Festival, sponsored by the City of T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E
beer and wine tastings, a 5K run/walk, arts and craft vendors and an art contest. The night before the event, a Gala Dinner will be held at 6:30. The dinner will feature a champagne social, a live auction and live music. For more information on the Gala Dinner, contact Susan at galadinner@texasmushroomfestival.com or call 936-348-3333. For more details, visit www.texasmushroomfestival.com. n Brazos Valley Fair and Rodeo Friday, Oct. 19 – Sunday, Oct. 21 5827 Leonard Road, Bryan The Brazos Valley Fair and Rodeo will feature a carnival, rodeo, livestock events, a kids zone, concerts, contests and shopping. According to the fair’s website, The Brazos Valley Fair & Expo was organized for educational, scientific and charitable purposes to encourage, promote and maintain agricultural science, research and educational functions. This will be the seventh year for the fair For more information, visit www. brazosvalleyfair.com.
Eagle file photo The annual Texas Reds festival celebrates two enormous Texas agricultural industries — beef and grapes — while showcasing the Downtown Bryan area. Bryan and Bryan Texas Utilities, will feature more than 25 of the state’s most popular wineries, as well as craft beer breweries, live music, a steak cook-off, artisans, food vendors and a Kids Zone, according to the festival’s website. Headlining the live music this year is country music star Wynonna and The Big Noise, who will perform on Friday at 9:30 p.m. The Saturday steak dinner, from 4 to 8 p.m., will be provided by J. Cody’s Steaks and Barbecue. Each dinner ticket will include a 12 oz. ribeye grilled on site, sides, cobbler and tea. New this year is the Saturday night Unwind and Dine at Madden’s Casual Gourmet, an exclusive multi-course wine and steak pairing dinner from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. The Sunday steak and egg themed brunch will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., accompanied by Texas wines and a mimosa bar. For more information on Texas Reds, including a complete schedule of events, visit www.texasredsfestival.com. n Texas Renaissance Festival Sept. 29 – Nov. 25, Saturdays & Sundays 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. 21778 FM 1774, Todd Mission The Texas Renaissance Festival is the nation’s largest, most acclaimed Renaissance themed park. Each year, more than 500,000 guests pass through the festival’s gates and enter the magic of New Market Village, an authentically recreated 55 acre 16th century English township. The Texas Renaissance Festival presT H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E
ents an enchanted world full of kings and queens, lords and ladies, knights, nobles, fairies, elves, pirates, barbarians and other fanciful interactive characters. Guests will be entertained by an assortment of unique performers: musicians, magicians, acrobats, jugglers and dancers with 200 daily performances on over 20 stages throughout the village. In addition, there are about 400 shops featuring some of the works of artists, artisans and merchants, as well as live demonstrations by craftspeople skilled in the arts of glass blowing, weaving, pottery making, blacksmithing and more. Foods and drinks are offered from all over the world, including Greek, German, Spanish, French/Cajun, Polish, Asian, Italian and traditional English, as well as pub food. The festival will offer themed weekends including Oktoberfest, All Hallows Eve, Highland Fling, Pirate Adventure and Celtic Christmas. Each festival day is closed with a Royal Fireworks show at 8 p.m. For more information, visit www. texrenfest.com.
n Wiener Fest Friday, Oct. 14 – Sunday, Oct. 16 Wolf Pen Creek Park, 1015 Colgate Dr., College Station The 12th annual Wiener Fest, held by Aggieland Humane Society, is the humane society’s largest community event and fundraiser of the year. Events will include Wiener Races, Wanna Be Races for the non-dachshunds, a canine costume contest, 5K Fun Run and best trick contest. Other entertainment will include music, food vendors and vendors who will offer items for pets, as well as humans. For more information on Wiener Fest, visit www.aggielandhumane.org/ wienerfest.
n Texas Mushroom Festival Saturday, Oct. 13 Madisonville The 17th annual Texas Mushroom Festival will be held in Madisonville, the Mushroom Capital of Texas, with opening ceremonies starting at 10 a.m. The festival will include an auto showcase, a biergarten, cooking demos,
n
Wienerspiel Wiener Dog and Wanna Be Races
Friday, Oct. 19 – Sunday, Oct. 21 Wolf Pen Creek Park, 1015 Colgate Dr., College Station Wienerspiel’s Wiener Dog and Wanna Be Races is a new event for dachshunds and non-dachshunds alike, designed to help raise funds for non-profits in the
area who help homeless, unwanted and neglected animals, as well as organizations who support the human/animal bond. It will begin on Friday at the Wolf Pen Amphitheater with a boot camp for practice starting at 5 p.m., followed by racing events on Saturday and Sunday starting at noon. There will also be a costume contest on Saturday at 11 a.m. Categories for the contest are Most Creative, Best Dressed, Least Effort, Most High Tech and Doggie Duo. For more information, contact Judy LeUnes at 979-412-6051 or visit www.wienerspiel.org. n Senior Fall Fest Thursday, Oct. 25 • 5 – 7 p.m. American Pavilion at Veterans Park, 3101 Harvey Rd, College Station Adults 55+ are invited to enjoy free food, lively music, a cakewalk, door prizes and more. No registration is required. For more information, visit cstx.gov.
Around the state
There are also several fun events near the Brazos Valley or within a day’s drive. n Original Round Top Antiques Monday, Oct. 1 – Saturday, Oct. 6 475 Texas Hwy 237 South, Carmine Info: roundtoptexasantiques.com
Fair
n Texas Rice Festival Wednesday, Oct. 3 – Sunday, Oct. 7 Winnie-Stowell Park, 1400 Park St., Winnie Info: www.texasricefestival.com n Oktoberfest Friday, Oct. 5 – Sunday, Oct. 7 100 West Main St., Fredericksburg Info: www.oktoberfestinfbg.com n Bootfest Friday, Oct. 5 – Saturday, Oct. 6 DeLeon Plaza, Victoria Info: bootfest.org n Scarecrow Festival Saturday, Oct. 13 – Sunday, Oct. 14 Downtown Chappell Hill Info: chappellhillmuseum.org/ scarecrow-festival
September 6, 2018 | 7
Common Medicare mistakes to avoid Although Medicare has been around for over 50 years, every new retiree must navigate the system for the first time. Because the Medicare system is notoriously complex, the experience is a little bit like learning how to drive on a Formula 1 race course. You will probably make it to the finish line, but not without a few bumps and dents. For those who hope to complete their Medicare enrollment in a smooth and financially-smart way, here are five common first-timer mistakes to avoid.
Missed deadlines
If you are already receiving Social Security benefits, I have good news: your Medicare Part A enrollment is automatic. However, don’t wait for your Social Security enrollment to file your Medicare paperwork. That’s because Medicare and Social Security enrollment ages don’t always match. How does the Medicare deadline work? You must sign up for Medicare Part A within the Initial Enrollment Period, which begins three months before your 65th birthday month, includes your birthday month and covers the subsequent three months. So, if you turn 65 on July 10th of this year, your Initial Enrollment Period would start on April 1st and go through October 31st. There are a few exceptions that can qualify you for delaying your Medicare enrollment, such as being employed and covered under your current employer’s health insurance plan. Without a valid exception, failure to enroll on time can result in penalties or potentially having to wait, without health care coverage, for the next open enrollment period. I recommend marking your Initial Enrollment Period on your calendar so that you don’t miss it. If you want to go one step further, you could mark your calendar for two months prior to that date to tell yourself when to start doing your research on Medicare choices.
Missing out on Medigap
Medigap is a supplement to Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical TracY Stewart insurance). It helps financial literacy you cover some of the costs that would otherwise be your outof-pocket responsibility. Those who wish to add Medigap to their overall coverage should know that their best option is to sign up within a six-month open enrollment period, which begins on the first day of the first month that you are both 65 years old and enrolled in Medicare Part B. If you turned 65 on July 10th of this year and enrolled in Medicare Part B as of August 15th, your Medigap open enrollment runs from September 1st to February 28th. During the open enrollment period, you can choose any Medigap plan available in your state without medical underwriting and without an upcharge related to preexisting conditions. If you miss the deadline, you may be denied a Medigap policy or it may cost significantly more.
Ignoring gross income calculations
Some Medicare premiums are driven in part by your Adjusted Gross Income or AGI. If your AGI plus tax-exempt interest income exceed $85,000 for an individual or $170,000 for a couple, you may be charged a higher Medicare Part B premium. This surcharge is known as the “income-related monthly adjustment amount” or IRMAA. If your income is close to the cut-off, see a financial planner before you make any financial moves that could push you across the line. These include but are not limited to rolling a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA or having a higher salary.
Not fighting the IMRAA surcharge
financial situation has changed through loss of a job, divorce, death of a spouse, etc., you can contest the IMRAA surcharge. The process involves making a request, gathering documentation, and stating your case. It takes time, but the financial outcome may be worth the effort.
Avoid common Medicare mistakes!
Some of the common Medicare mistakes, such as failure to sign up for Medicare Part A and Medigap on time, only come up once. Others, such as the need to re-assess Medicare Part D and monitor your AGI, must happen every year. Mark your calendar to keep them straight! Tracy Stewart, CPA consults on financial issues related to elder planning and divorce. She can be contacted at tracy@ TracyStewartCPA.com.
Many retirees don’t realize they can challenge the IRMAA surcharge. IRMAA is typically based on taxable income from two years ago. If your
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Not enough due diligence on Medicare Part D
Medicare Part D covers prescription medications. There are dozens of plans out there and analyzing which one is best for you can be overwhelming. Many retirees choose the path of least resistance and simply pick the plan that their spouse (best friend, neighbor, etc.) has selected. Mistake! Your prescription needs and projected expenses are as unique as your fingerprint. Even though reading the fine print and compiling your personal list of medications is a chore, it’s the only way to ensure that your choice gives you the greatest financial advantage. You will need to do this chore every year if your health and/or prescriptions change.
8 | September 6, 2018
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clumsiness from page 2
loss of hearing or diminishing vision are widely associated with aging, but one’s senses of smell and taste may diminish with aging as well.
Senses of smell and taste change with age Metro Creative Connection
Aging comes with several sensory changes, many of which people expect. Loss of hearing or diminishing vision are widely associated with aging. But one’s senses of smell and taste may diminish with aging as well. The senses of taste and smell work in concert. The sense of smell is vital to personal health, not only because inhaling pleasant aromas can provide comfort and stress relief through aromatherapy and help trigger important memories, but also because smell enables a person to detect the dangers of smoke, gas, spoiled food and more. The National Institute on Aging says that, as a person gets older, his or her sense of smell may fade, and that will also affect taste. The Mayo Clinic says some loss of taste and smell is natural and can begin as early as age 60. Adults have about 9,000 taste buds sensing sweet, salty, sour, bitter and umami flavors, or those corresponding T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E
to the flavor of glutamates. Many tastes are linked to odors that begin at the nerve endings in the lining of the nose. Medline says the number of taste buds decreases as one ages, and that remaining taste buds may begin to shrink. Sensitivity to the five tastes also begins to decline. This can make it more difficult to distinguish between flavors. Similarly, especially after age 70, smell can diminish due to a loss of nerve endings and less mucus in the nose. With the combination of the reduction of these important sensory nerves in the nose and on the tongue, loss of smell and taste can greatly affect daily life. Changes in these senses can contribute to feelings of depression, diminish one’s enjoyment of food and cause harmful conditions, such as extreme weight loss from disinterest in food to problems associated with overusing salt or sugar. Although aging is often to blame,
loss of smell and taste also may be tied to early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease or Alzheimer’s disease. Cancer treatments, medications, lack of saliva, colds, flu and other factors may contribute to sensory loss. Changing medications or treatments may help. It’s important to bring up diminished flavors or smells with a doctor to rule out something more serious and to determine what might help restore pleasure from smells and flavors. An otolaryngologist, or a doctor who specializes in diseases of the ears, nose and throat, may be able to help fix the problem, though some people may be referred to a neurologist or another specialist. Continuing to use one’s sense of smell and taste by cooking, gardening, trying new flavors and experimenting with different aromas may help slow down the decline these senses. Although age-related loss of taste and smell cannot be reversed, some such cases may be treatable.
conditions. Healthline also says that clumsiness may be an early symptom of Parkinson’s disease or Alzheimer’s. Parkinson’s affects the central nervous system and can impair motor skills. Alzheimer’s slowly damages and kills brain cells and may cause issues with coordination. This may be the case with other dementias as well. Clumsiness may sometimes result from a lack of sleep or overconsumption of alcohol. Arthritis also can lead to clumsiness when joint pain and restrictive movements make it challenging to get around. Psychologists may suggest cognitive behavioral therapy or propose performing tasks with more mindfulness to reduce clumsiness. If that doesn’t work, men and women should visit their physicians, who can conduct tests to rule out certain things and provide peace of mind.
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CALENDAR ONGOING QQEnglish Conversation Circle – Practice speaking English on Tuesdays from 2 to 3 p.m. at Larry J. Ringer Library, 1818 Harvey Mitchell Pkwy in College Station. Call 979764-3416 for more information. QQBCS 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. QQLine 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. QQBeginning Tap Dance Review – Adults 55+ are invited to learn basic tap dance steps and terminology with Instructor Sue Engbrock. Join us at Southwood Community Center from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. on Thursdays. Tap shoes are recommended but not required. For more information, contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371,
longevity from page 5
optimism and grit. Even after 90, they still had a sense of purpose. Family members generally respected their elders and regarded them as “strong” and “controlling.” The authors cited other supporting research. One cited study reported that psychological factors were more predictive of aging well than physical health or mental astuteness. Another found that aging well depended on
email kpeterson@cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/ seniors. QQLine 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. QQ 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 979-764-6351, email kpeterson@ cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/seniors. QQClassic 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 979-764-6351, email kpeterson@cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/ seniors. QQGame Night – Adults 55+ are invited to join the fun every Tuesday evening from 7 to 9 p.m. at Southwood Community Cen-
ter. 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. QQLearn 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. QQForevercise – 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. QQIndoor 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. QQMah 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!
positive socialization strategies, ability to cope with stress, and adaptability. Yet another study found that those who lived such long times had mastered positive thinking and psychological flexibility. Mental health is important at all ages. I think that in our culture we have been too inclined to think of mental health in terms of insanity. The spectrum of mental illness ranges from insanity to the impaired function caused by insecurity, pessimism, diminished self-efficacy, purposelessness and general defeatist outlook on life. In
the middle of this spectrum are such issues as hostility, depression, anxiety and addiction, which are common in our culture. All of these issues need attention. The milder forms of mental illness usually do not require doctors and pills. They do require self-awareness and a will to take it upon oneself to fix whatever is not right. A happier and perhaps longer life will result.
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For more information contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351, email kpeterson@cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/seniors. QQBible 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. QQPlay “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. QQFriday 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 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.
September 7 QQFloral Design – Adults 55+ are invited to a Floral Design class at the Lincoln Recreation Center. The class will be held from 9:30 to 11 a.m. For more information, contact Ms. Annie Williams at 979–764–3779 or awilliams@cstx.gov.
See calendar page 11 Brain’s Coal Mine,” is available in inexpensive e-book format at https://www. smashwords.com/books/view/496252. See also his recent books, “Memory Power 101” (Skyhorse), and “Mental Biology. The New Science of How the Brain and Mind Relate” (Prometheus).
Source: Scelzo, Anna et al. (2017). Mixed-methods quantitative=qualitative study of 29 nonagenarians and centenarians in rural Southern Italy: focus on positive psychological Memory Medic’s recent book for seniors, traits. International Psychogeriatrics, p. 1-8. doi: 10.1017/ “Improve Your Memory for a Healthy S1041610217002721 Brain. Memory Is the Canary in Your T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E
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QQMovie & Popcorn – Join us for a movie and popcorn every third Thursday at Southwood Community Center from 1 to 3 p.m. No registration needed. For more information, contact the College Station Parks and Recreation Department, September 13 QQBINGO – Adults 55+ are invited to play BINGO from 10:30 Senior Services by calling 979-764-6371, emailing kpeterto 11:30 a.m. The event is sponsored by Signature Select son@cstx.gov or visiting cstx.gov/seniors. Services. For more information, contact Ms. Annie Williams at 979–764–3779 or awilliams@cstx.gov. September 24 QQSenior Advisory Committee Meeting – The Senior Advisory Committee meets on the last Monday of the month to September 19 QQCraft Class – Adults 55+ are invited to a Craft class at the discuss programs and activities for adults 55+. The meeting Lincoln Recreation Center. The class will be held from 10:00 is held at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie to 11:30 a.m. For more information, contact Ms. Annie Wil- Rd starting at 9:30 a.m. Visitors welcome! For more information, contact the College Station Parks and Recreation liams at 979–764–3779 or awilliams@cstx.gov. QQExploring History Luncheon: A presentation on “Stage Department, Senior Services by calling 979-764-6371, Center” by Jennifer Hargis – The College Station Historic emailing kpeterson@cstx.gov or visiting cstx.gov/seniors. Preservation Committee and the College Station Parks and Recreation Department present monthly lectures on the his- September 27 tory of our community and state. The luncheon will be held QQMonthly Dance – Adults 55 + are invited to enjoy an at the Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie evening of dancing with a live DJ at Southwood Community Road. A reservation is necessary for lunch and the cost is Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Rd. The dance is held from 7 to $7. Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m. The speaker will begin 9 p.m. Door prizes and light refreshments served. No resat noon. Please make your reservation no later than the Fri- ervation needed. For more information, contact the College day before the luncheon by calling 979-764-6371, emailing Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services kpeterson@cstx.gov or visiting cstx.gov/seniors. by calling 979-764-6371, emailing kpeterson@cstx.gov or visiting cstx.gov/seniors.
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QQBingo & Birthday Celebration – Join us on the last Friday of each month from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. at Southwood Community Center for bingo and cake as we celebrate monthly birthdays! Prizes donated by Signature Select Services. No registration necessary. Call 979-764-6351 for more information. 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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