2012 May / Boomer Buzz Magazine

Introducing

Growing Rosemary...

The Herb

Senior Scene

Book Review

J.D. Davis, Author of Unconquered

boomers...living life to the fullest MAY 2012

boomerbuzzmagazine.com

It’s easier to feather your nest, empty your nest or build your nest egg when your money isn’t tied up in big interest payments.

Bring us your car loan.

We’ll meet or beat your rate.* Checking ▪ MasterCard Debit Card ▪ Savings ▪ IRA ▪ Money Market Auto loans ▪ Home Loans ▪ Credit Card ▪ Shared Branching 2 Locations 1301 Young St., Suite 100, Dallas, TX 75202 Hours: M-F 8:00 am—3:30 pm

214▪ 748▪ 5166

1919 Woodall Rodgers Freeway Dallas, TX 75201 Hours: M-F 8 am-5 pm ▪ Sat 9am-1 pm

www.dallascu.org

*All loans subject to credit approval. Your deposits are insured for up to $250,000 by the National Credit Union Administration, a U.S. Government Agency. Offer expires 7/31/2012. Visit www.dallascu.org for details.

4

CONTENTS

MAY IN THIS ISSUE

EDITOR’S LETTER FEATURE HEALTHY BALANCE AT HOME THE EPICUREAN STYLE WATCH BOOM VOYAGE REDEFINING WEALTHY & WISE BOOMER BUZZ BLOG SPEAK MEDICAL MATTERS SENIOR SCENE

214.934.2616

6 10 12 14 16 20 26 28 32 34 36 38 44

Spring Introduction Easiest Plants for Texas How to Add Artistic Elements Growing Rosemary...The Herb Juicing Benefits from Fresh Fruits & Vegetables Hair Color for Men and Women BERMUDA Home of Heavenly Golf New Business In Retirement The Most Critical Wealth Factor Relationship Buzz With Beverly Can Weight Loss Really Be Effortless?

Navigating the Health Care System Dispelling the Fear of Care-Giving

info@boomerbuzzmagazine.com

6

EDITOR

EDITOR’S LETTER Life changes. The world changes. Seasons change. Winter turns to spring, flowers bloom and we smell fresh mowed grass when driving down the street. And this magazine, too, is changing.

We are constantly tweaking the scope of our mission to bring you intelligent, entertaining and insightful articles sketched out on beautiful canvases. We are committed to bringing you, our reader, features that focus on living healthy and living life to the fullest.

We hope we get you past having the “perfect” body and get to the heart of “whole” life health and happiness. Boomer Buzz Magazine wants to dig deeper, being ahead on important issues and visualizing the bigger picture of exactly what it means to live a real, healthy happy life.

In this issue you will find out how to add artistic elements to your busy days, juicing benefits and resources for effortless weight loss.

There is exceptional advice on starting a new business after retiring from a lifelong career and assessing if your past is holding you back.

Men’s spas and fashion wear is included in Style Watch along with Easy Makeup Tips for boomer ladies. And features include Texas Gardening with the Easiest Plants and an interview with JD Davis, author of the new biography Unconquered: The Saga of Cousins Jerry Lee Lewis, Jimmy Swaggart, and Mickey Gilley.

And the most exciting change of the season is the new section in Boomer Buzz Magazine, Senior Scene. We feel it is critically important that we all recognize the need for information on topics of utter importance that we as boomers face for ourselves and our aging parents and Senior Scene is the tip the iceberg. More than 10,000 people a day turn 65 and 33% of boomers care for an older parent. We, as a nation, face major medical hurdles with this huge segment of our population and changes in Medicare and Social Security will certainly affect future lifestyles. Our goal is to offer timely relevant subjects of interest for this growing group of consumers and their caregivers.

As April showers in May flowers change is definitely in the air. We hope you embrace the changes of the season as well as those on our pages and we look forward to many more seasons together.

Enjoy reading!

Robin Roberson Editor – In - Chief

8

PUBLISHER William Robin Company, LLC

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Robin Roberson

MANAGING EDITOR Micki Sander

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING Linda Moncrief

ADVERTISING SALES sales@boomerbuzzmagazine.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Mariah Scott Rushing

CREATIVE DESIGN LiquidFly Designs

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Holly Kuper, Jim Holcomb and Becca Menig

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Rey Adorable, D.C. Frank Alof Shay Banks James Corman Tracey Fiebe Sarah Graham Valerie Grimes Michele Howe Ben M. Hirshberg Elija James Beverly Jones

Carla McMahon Ron Maddox Becca Menig Kevin Nystrom Patrick Ogunnaike Peter Ottowitz Stephanie Rice Micki Sander Cynthia Stock Lindsey Townsend

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REGISTRATION ON OR USE OF THIS MAGAZINE CONSTITUTES ACCEPTANCE OF BOOMER BUZZ MAGAZINE’S USER AGREEMENT AND PRIVACY POLICY. THE MATERIALS ON THIS SITE MAY NOT BE REPRODUCED, DISTRIBUTED, TRANSMITTED, CACHED OR OTHERWISE USED, EXCEPT WITH THE PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM BOOMER BUZZ MAGAZINE.

Welcome Home!

The Residences of Manchester Place are the first and only residential care homes in Dallas, built specifically and exclusively for those seeking an assisted living residence.

Safe & “Home” Like-Located in Upscale Neighborhoods All Inclusive Care & Exceptional Services Fresh Home Cooked Meals & Daily Snacks Professional, Experienced, Registered Staff 24 Hours per Day Spacious Living Quarters & Common Living Areas Light, Bright ADA Compliant Construction

Visit The Residences of Manchester Place and you will know you are home!

Northwood Hills · Preston Hollow · White Rock Lake · Highland Lakes

10

FEATURE TEXAS GARDENS

D

allas weather is not known for being kind to gardeners. A humid subtropical climate with scorching summers, combined with low winter temperatures often dropping below freezing, are tough on landscapes and tender plants.

While mild temperatures in the spring somehow fool many of us into flocking to the nursery and filling our cart with blooms, believing our backyards can remain a garden paradise all summer long. Reality sets in every summer, once the temperature pushes past 100 degrees watering plants once or even twice a day just to keep them alive during July and August just doesn’t make sense from an environmental or financial perspective.

Severe drought, water restrictions, and rising temperatures are also demanding that we start thinking about our landscapes in a different way. Many Boomers are interested now in maintenance-free landscapes that don’t require substantial investments of water, not to mention time, energy, and money. “I love how relaxing it is to come home and enjoy a beautiful garden, but I’m still working full-time, and I want to spend my free time enjoying it, not working up a sweat planting and maintaining it all summer long!” says Kathryn Taylor, 60, a Carrollton homeowner.

Even reading the label at the nurseries doesn’t guarantee you’ll have success. Many Texas residents don’t even understand what sun and shade really means in our brutal climate, according to Mark Hicks, landscaping professional with Creative Boundaries in Coppell.

Many plants are quite sensitive to varying degrees of light, and morning sun in Texas is not the same as morning sun in Chicago. “Just because a plant label states that it can take morning sun doesn’t mean it can be planted on the east side of the house here without dying, because in North Texas, it can be 95 degrees on the east side by 10:00 a.m.,” Hicks says.

FEATURE TEXAS GARDENS

Towards that end, we’ve compiled a list of the easiest plants to grow for North Texas gardens: sure-fire winners for those even with blackest of thumbs.

Forget everything you ever heard about roses being fussy and hard to care for. New, modern hybrids like Knock-out Roses perform well without constant spraying. Hicks’s new favorite is the Drift Rose, a landscape rose hybrid bred from Flower Carpet roses and miniature roses that bloom spring to frost. These beautiful, carefree shrubs are smothered in blossoms from last frost until first frost, throughout the season, and require minimal care.

“They’re the ultimate ‘no-maintenance’ plant,” he says. “The colors are ethereal, as though they’re lit from within, and the fragrance is lovely, too. They’re a wonderful asset to any garden.” Drift roses are heat and cold tolerant, disease resistant, take full or partial sun, and grow between 18-24 or 24-30 inches tall depending on variety.

According to Hicks, other great performers for full sun in Dallas include Mexican feather grass, yuccas, fountain grasses, and esperanza. For morning sun and shade, he recommends abelia, spireas, oxalis, and yuccas.

In addition to not understanding sun and shade requirements, Hicks observes that another common mistake homeowners make when doing their own landscaping, is not allowing enough room for plants to grow to their natural, mature size. “Make sure you know how tall and how wide that particular specimen will grow,” he advises. “I’ve seen far too many landscapes where shrubs are planted too close to houses, fences, or trees, and have to be taken out after a few years when they start taking over the space.”

So resist the temptation to fill up every square inch of dirt with plants and follow the recommendations for spacing given on the label. A few years or even months down the road when plants are filling out, you’ll be glad you did.

11

For Any Texan Who Has Ever Killed a Plant!

Here’s a must-have book for every Dallas gardener: Easy Gardens for North Central Texas by Steve Huddleston and Pamela Crawford (Color Garden Publishing, $29.95). It’s packed full of information about annuals, perennials, shrubs, and trees that breeze through 100-degree plus temperatures, require minimal time, and attract birds and butterflies. Each page features fullcolor photographs of lots of great native plants for our tough Texas environment that thrive with rainwater and require less than five minutes of care a year.

Freelance writer/editor Lindsey Townsend is a Dallas Morning News Voices columnist and blogger and co-author of the upcoming book Letting Go (LaMer Publishing, June 2012). Her website is www. lindseytownsend.com; email lindseytownsend@live.com.

12

HEALTHY BALANCE ARTISTIC ELEMENTS

Everyone is always busy nowadays. Have you noticed?

It’s a fact, our attention spans have shortened with abbreviated words and social media. Our souls long to be filled with something worthwhile. Because that something worthwhile never comes (at least not in mainstream ways), we instead fill up on instantaneous excitement: reality shows, Dancing with the Stars, and random gossip to name a few of these distractions.

I grew up in the country. Our nearest neighbor was a mile away. We didn’t have cable, but we had “Rabbit Ears” on the TV so we were able to watch basic cable stations. Because of the lack of amenities, my cousins and I found ways to keep ourselves entertained. We helped in the garden, we made collages, we had debates, we played random made-up games, we took walks, and we shared our best make-believe stories. We simply created our own hobbies.

I’m amazed at how many people no longer have hobbies. In today’s on-the-go world, it seems as if no one has time for anything. No time to stop and revel in the beauty that surrounds us. When my mom was diagnosed with A.L.S., I saw her stop and enjoy every moment of her life a lot more. Every conversation meant more, every visitor was treasured, and every meal was blessed.

When was the last time you stopped and enjoyed the moment?

I’m a horrible singer. No—scratch that. I’m an awesome singer as long as it’s in the shower and in the car. And no one else is around.

But that doesn’t stop me from singing.

When was the last time you did something for fun?

One of my best friends, Carol*, is 70 years young. She and I left the education field at the same time due to burn-out. Since she has officially retired, she has been making her life artistic and meaningful. From singing

in the Dallas Symphony to volunteering at schools, she has been making sure that she spends her retirement in complete bliss.

When was the last time you: • Planted a garden • Went to a playground & tried to swing on a swing • Tried a new recipe • Sang a song from high school at the top of your lungs • Ate with your fingers • Finger-painted • Stopped and watch a bunny jump through your yard • Tried playing an instrument • Read a good book twice • Played “dress-up” by trying on different outfits • Added a floral design on your manicure and pedicure • Cooked a 4 course meal for yourself • Took a road trip • Bought a new lipstick • Let go, relaxed, and had fun?

If it wasn’t today, honey, it’s been too long!

What I love about Carol is that there’s an element of fun in her daily life. Between running two businesses and keeping in touch with friends and family, my life seems to move at the speed of light.

What I’ve learned from Carol is to make every day an artistic dream. Sure, you may not have 2 hours to devote to learning something new. But you have 10 minutes to sing at the top of your lungs don’t you?

When you make at least 10 minutes of your day artistic, or fun, you’ll begin to see that your soul gets fulfilled.

You relax more. You smile more. And all of a sudden, your life starts to feel amazing. But, don’t take my word for it. Try it for yourself and witness the beautiful everchanging movie that is your life. *Name has been changed.

Shay Banks is an author , freelance writer and relationship coach who lives in Dallas, Texas.

HEALTHY BALANCE DOES AGE

13

by Sonja Kabell, Creating Healthy Lifestyles

here are so many misconceptions, myths and fairy tales around gaining weight, losing weight and your age. Some are true, some are not. Let’s see what we can figure out.

There are several reasons as we age, we gain weight. The top reasons for weight gain for the average person is bad eating habits, stress, caffeine, too much alcohol, and inactivity.

Before we get into the food, let’s talk about the stress and caffeine. Individuals that have high stress jobs or stressful life events can have issues around losing weight. Also, drinking caffeine can cause your body to have a hard time as well. In simple terms, stress and caffeine make your body believe it is in “fight or flight.”

When your body is stimulated and in “fight or flight” the ability to lose weight can become harder. The body believes it might not get another meal and will store fat. My recommendation is to cut back on your daily intake of caffeine or remove it completely from your diet. Also, reduce stress as often as possible. There are tons of strategies like going for a walk, take a breather from stressful situations and managing your time better that can help you with stress. For more information on the topic of caffeine and stress, I recommend reading, ‘Accidentally Overweight,’ by Dr. Libby Weaver.

Now, the food….Truly, it is largely about what you drink and eat that will affect weight loss and gain.

Everything you put in your mouth has an effect on your health. The average person with the right type of diet and integrating an exercise routine can lose weight, no matter what age.

Picking foods that have a high satiation value, the feeling of fullness, is essential. Eating foods that make you feel full faster and longer will help you control calorie intake. Examples are fresh fruit and vegetables like melons, pineapple, grapefruit, broccoli, cauliflower and celery. Also, pick foods that have the least amount of human intervention. Pick an apple instead of apple juice, a baked potato instead of French fries or chips.

Foods that are in their natural state or one step removed verse processed foods will help your health, your heart and your waistline. Choosing whole grains like quinoa, rice, oats, and corn. The team whole grain means the grain has the bran, germ and endosperm still attached to the kernel. Select lean meats like seafood, shell fish, chicken and turkey. Bake, broil, sauté in low calorie cooking stray instead of frying or using oil or butter is recommended. Reducing the amount of alcohol you drink will also be beneficial. At the end of the day, alcohol is calories. Think about calories in verse calories out. Are you expending what you consume each day?

Let’s not forget about integrating daily activity. Activity will not only help you be at a healthy weight, it is overall great for you! Walking, swimming, yoga, all easy on the knees, and easy to do, no equipment necessary!

Keeping active can save your life.

I wish I could tell you that what you feed your body doesn’t affect your health, but that would be a fairy tale!

Sonja Kabell, Creating Healthy Lifestyles, kskabell@verizon.net, www. kabells.usana.com

14

AT HOME ROSEMARY

There are many tips for growing Rosemary herb that are easy to follow and simple to implement. This plant comes in several varieties and provides both a wonderful aroma and great addition to a meal. While there are many challenges when growing different types of herbs, Rosemary does not fall into that category, the plant is incredibly easy to grow and requires minimal care.

The most common Rosemary herbs are those used in Mediterranean cooking. These include the Tuscan Blue, Miss Jessup and Spice Island. Other Rosemary plants to consider such as the Blue Lady, Golden Rain, and Blue boy, offer dazzling displays of foliage with less aroma and taste. However, it should be noted, that all varieties of Rosemary have both edible flowers and leaves. Most of the bushes have tall stocks carrying blue flowers. An individual who enjoys the taste and aroma of Rosemary but once a lighter fragrance or lighter taste will find this in the less common varieties.

Unlike many herbs, the Rosemary does not require a lot of special treatment. It is relatively easy to grow in a sandy well-drained area. The plant likes warmer weather, 6 to 8 hours of sunshine, and low humidity.

When grown in the right climate, these plants become very large bushes. Many people find them an excellent border plant because of their wonderful fragrance.

A region that has temperatures which dropped below 30 degrees will need to make some accommodation for the Rosemary. If you live in this type of climate, you will need to ensure that your plant is kept indoors during the winter. Most rosemary bushes do not do well in doors for a simple reason.

They require 6 to 8 hours of sunlight each day, whether they are indoors or outdoors. Setting your Rosemary near a window in doors will not provide enough sunlight to stay healthy.

You will need to get artificial lighting for your bush. The plant does not require heat from the sun, but it does require light.

Creating an ideal home for your indoor/outdoor Rosemary bush will require some preplanning. The bush does best in terra-cotta pots. These pots do not hold water like many others.

When you are going to plant your Rosemary in a pot, it will be important to put pebbles in the bottom of the pot so that it will get the proper drainage. This will keep the red system of your Rosemary healthy.

If you are going to keep your Rosemary in a pot on a year-round basis, it will be necessary to repot your plant yearly.

AT HOME RECIPE

The root system of the bush grows in direct proportion to the plant. Therefore, a large healthy bush means you have a large healthy root system. In order for your plant to stay healthy the roots must have room to grow.

Each spring you will need to fertilize your Rosemary.

This is best accomplished using a natural product such as fish and kelp emulsion. You can find this type of fertilizer online or at your local nursery.

It is also a good idea to keep the emulsion in a water mixture and spray your plant periodically to maintain good health.

Powdery mildew is a problem for Rosemary herbs. This white fungus takes over plants and causes them distress.

There are many remedies available to control these problems. However, a simple remedy is to put a tablespoon of vinegar in a spray bottle with water and spray your plant liberally until the fungus is gone. This treatment also rips the plant of aphids and spider bites.

The Rosemary is a beautiful plant, aromatic, and provides an individual with many benefits.

It makes a stunning border plant, is great in the garden, and wonderful in a home. When you are looking for tips on growing Rosemary herb, checking the different varieties of the herb available and selecting those that most fit your personality and style will be a great idea.

Tony Stevens is a freelance author and an herb garden enthusiast who looks for good and effective ways to grow your plants and understands being proud of your garden.

15

16

THE EPICUREAN JUICING BENEFITS

By James Corman

THE EPICUREAN JUICING BENEFITS

S

ure there are several bottled juices you can readily buy from groceries and other retail stores. They can be more convenient. However, when it comes to juicing benefits, they can never come close to what you can gain from juicing fresh fruits and vegetables.

Cure for Cancer The National Cancer Institute have recently started their campaign on encouraging people to eat more of fruits and vegetables as an important component in the cure and prevention of cancer. It is also revealed from several studies that fruits are better when taken fresh and vegetables when eaten raw.

You can easily achieve this with juicing benefits.

Extracting the juice from fruits and vegetables empowers the body to quickly absorb the vitamins and minerals found from fresh fruits and raw vegetables. It also speeds up digestion, as there are some fibers in both fruits and vegetables that can be a little difficult to digest when eaten whole.

Boost Immunity to Diseases

Including fresh fruit and vegetable juices to your everyday diet can strengthen your immunity against diseases. This is one of the main benefits too hard to ignore. You see, when the body’s natural defense is strong, you can easily fight off and prevent diseases to attack your system. You will be able to minimize or eliminate the risks of contracting diseases when your immune system is strong.

Juicing Encourages You to Eat Fruits and Vegetables While there is a high level of awareness among the public on the importance of eating more of fruits and vegetables, unfortunately most are not actually doing it. Juicing is one way to attract and encourage people to benefit from fruits and vegetables. One of the juicing benefits is that there are several delectable recipes for juices that will make drinking juice more exciting.

17

Get More Enzymes with Fresh Juices

Fresh juices- fruits or vegetables or a mixture of both deliver more enzymes than any other forms of juices.

This is because fresh fruit or vegetable juices are free from chemicals, preservatives, and do not undergo heat that kills the enzymes. If you are not aware of the importance of enzymes, these are what the body needs to prolong life.

Slows the Aging Process

If you want to delay your aging, you just have to drink fresh juices. Fruit and vegetables juices are found to be rich sources of anti-oxidants that fight off the damage cause by the free radicals in the body including the skin.

Some of the benefits include strengthening the muscles and preventing the signs and symptoms of aging from showing, such as wrinkles and skin dryness. It also prevents ailments that are commonly associated with aging.

Natural Way to Lose Weight

Who can argue with weight loss as a juicing benefit?

Drinking fresh fruit and vegetable juices as part of a weight loss program is proven to be effective, safe, and economical. With fresh juices, you are activating the body’s metabolism to burn more calories and therefore make you lose excess and unnecessary weight. It is nature’s way to help you keep your ideal weight for your good health above anything else.

Visit http://www.powerjuicingtips.com for more information on power juicing. You will find information about how the nutritional benefits of juicing can help with weight loss as well as fight many diseases. Also, be sure to check out the Kindle book, “Juicing Tips and Recipes” on Amazon.com, or the Nook book on Barns and Noble.

James Corman is an author and freelance writer whose interests are gardening, nature photography, health and nutrition, and exotic animals.

18

THE EPICUREAN EATING ORGANIC

By Ben M. Hirshberg

SO, you’ve seen organic produce in the grocery store, organic labels on packaging, and heard about organic food on the news. What exactly does it mean to be USDA certified organic?

Organically certified foods are grown without pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, GMOs, radiation, or growth hormones as well as free from other unnatural growth methods.

Alright, so does that mean organic foods are healthier?

Yep. Foods grown organically have a higher nutritional value than foods that are not. Organically grown fruits and vegetables potentially contain 40% more antioxidants and organic milk potentially contains 90% more antioxidants according to a Newcastle University study.

Not only do these foods have more nutrients, they also contain less chemicals. The chemicals often sprayed on crops are meant to kill other life forms, and while humans may not die from consuming them, these chemicals can still be very detrimental to our health.

Non-Organic foods that were grown using radiation methods can change the chemistry of the food itself, potentially even promoting cancer.

Foods that were not grown organically can be genetically modified, meaning that they are different than the food you are intending to buy. A genetically modified apple is structurally different than a nongenetically modified grown apple, and our bodies were not meant to process and run on genetically modified food.

Yes, organic foods generally are more expensive than other foods. This is because organic farmers do not receive subsidies and organic farming is more labor intensive and time-consuming.

Many people believe that organic foods taste better than other foods. I tend to agree, in part because non-organic foods can be grown with quantity and ship-ability in mind rather than taste.

Something else to consider when deliberating between organic or not is the cost to the environment. Growing food with toxic chemicals creates runoff that can damage nearby water sources. When chemicals are used to grow food, the land can be harmed to the point of the soil becoming infertile.

Not only produce can be labeled as organic. Animal products can gain the certification as well. Organic meat generally means that the animals were treated well, and ate higher quality feed in addition to being free to graze pastures.

Often times, organic produce can be less appealing the eye. But don’t let appearance fool you... try eating them before discounting them. You may find that you feel better and that the food actually tastes better.

Investing in your health pays off in the short term and long term, and buying organically grown foods is a good way to do that.

Ben Hirshberg is a freelance writer and college student with a vision to help as many people as possible reach their health goals and become the healthiest they can be. BenHirshberg.com

THE EPICUREANEATING ORGANIC

19

20

STYLE WATCH MEN & WOMEN HAIR COLOR

There was a time when coloring your hair was not socially acceptable. It was unheard of for a man and a woman to color their hair – those who did were thought of as “fast”. Times have changed! More than any other time in history, color for men and women is very desirable and completely acceptable.

Boomers are a generation of folks that don’t intend to grow old without a fight. We are going to do everything in our power to look youthful, for as long as possible.

Generally speaking, we are the generation of exercise enthusiasts with healthier diets and more active social lives. We pay attention to our wardrobes, our hair & makeup and are likely to pursue some form of cosmetic enhancement. Conversations of Botox, Juvederm and Artefill injections are now common among boomers.

According to a British survey conducted by Tresemme, the average woman spends a staggering $50,000 on her hair over her lifetime. Now, more and more men are resorting to hair color to remain competitive in a job market that places emphasis on youth. My clients tell me that age discrimination is a real phenomenon.

Color covers grey it is also a ingenious way to enhance your look or create something new... either subtle of dramatic. It provides a great form of self-expression and an alternative to changing your hairstyle frequently.

Maybe you have a cut that you love, but something still seems to be missing...COLOR! Over the 32+ years I have been in the beauty industry, I have seen color products change dramatically. Once, hair color was very opaque and usually tended to have a rather flat look. Now, most professional color lines are very translucent, allowing the natural variations of light, medium and dark to shine through. This creates a very soft natural appearance...no longer flat...now, radiant and vibrant.

STYLE WATCH MEN & WOMEN HAIR COLOR

21

by Ron Maddox

After working in salons with other colorists for many years, I have come to realize my approach to color is different than most stylists. My #1 priority is maintaining the integrity of the hair. Shiny healthy hair is one quick way to take 10 years off your appearance.

Therefore, every client will tell you that I am a healthy hair fanatic. If it’s dry and dull, it can easily add 10 years to your appearance.

Since most of my clients (male and female) are professionals, I seek ways to have their color look as natural as possible...like God did it! In my experience, color for men is quite different than color for women.

When working with a male client, I always steer away from color products marketed toward women. Many of the professional lines of color now offer a color line created and marketed just for men. I can spot a man a mile away that has used a color product for women. It looks different on a man...not in a favorable way. For the most part, men want color that is simple to use and has a short process time. The male client wants in and out; whereas, most females enjoy the whole salon experience. The color product I use for men is very simple, takes only 10 minutes to process and looks incredibly natural. The product gently camouflages grey rather than completely covering it.

Color Tips and Trends These comments are my professional opinion; other stylists may feel different about these issues. Whatever color you select, should be harmonious with your skin tone and eye coloring. Many days, I see a woman with red hair that makes her skin look so yellow she could be mistaken for being jaundiced. Chunky highlights are yesterday! Ask your stylist for a blended look if you want to exude class, sophistication and professionalism.

Be cautious with multi-colored highlights. Although, the concept is good, I rarely see them well executed.

All too often, they have a calico appearance. While the effect may be beautiful on your cat, it isn’t beautiful on your head. Also, over a period of time, multi-colored highlights can really over process the hair, leaving it dry and dull. This can age you and make you look less healthy.

Men avoid highlights unless they want to appear gay, few heterosexual men can pull this off. I don’t even see many gay men who wear it well. The difference is...most gay men don’t care. Most of the time, a man or woman colors their hair and they love it so much they wouldn’t dream of going back to natural. So, go have some fun with hair color...you’ll be glad you did!

Ron Maddox is a freelance writer and professional stylist in Dallas, Texas. www.ronmaddox.com

22

STYLE WATCH WEARING SOCKS

If you want to be taken seriously then you have to dress the part. You need to pay attention to every little detail, because they do have the capacity to make or break your entire wardrobe. Socks, probably one of the most overlooked article of clothing, actually have the capacity to render a man’s respectability to zero if they are worn wrong. Even if you are wearing a thousand dollar suit and an equally expensive pair of leather shoes, they will all seem irrelevant if you pair them with white gym socks.

So to prevent you from making a fool out of yourself because of poor sock choices, here is a short guide on how a real man chooses and wears socks.

1. Dress shoes warrant the use of dress socks

Even if your sports socks are black you should never wear them with classy dress shoes. Athletic socks have a thick and rather fluffy weave, so they do not really match with the sleek and stylish look of dress shoes. If you do try to wear your gym socks with dress shoes you will find that they bunch over the sides and top of the shoes, which looks a bit goofy.

And do not by any means commit the sin of wearing white socks with dress shoes! Doing this just instantly advertises to anyone (and every woman) in your vicinity that you are completely clueless when it comes to dressing yourself.

2. Your socks should match your pants, not shoes. A lot of people are confused with this rule, a lot of people still think that the socks should match the color of the shoes, which is incorrect. The

reason why socks should match the pants is because when you are sitting down (which is the only time that your socks are clearly visible) you want a solid line of color that connects your pants to your shoes. If you have socks that do not match your pants it creates a break in the line of color which breaks the flow of your entire outfit.

3. Do not wear socks when wearing sandals or shorts

Sandals are designed to be worn with just your bare feet, you will only look goofy if you wear socks with your sandals so do not even bother.

Another occasion where socks should be avoided is when wearing shorts. Socks with shorts will only make your legs look stumpy. If you really do need to wear socks with your shorts, invest in a good pair of ankle socks that are not so visible over your shoes.

4. Novelty socks are a No No If you really want to be taken seriously then why would you want to wear bright yellow socks with SpongeBob Squarepants embroidered at the sides? The only people that these kinds of socks will ever look good on are those aged 3 or below, so if you can read this guide then you are probably too old to wear novelty socks.

Who would have thought that socks would have such an impact on how you look? So if you want to be perceived by others as a man who needs to be taken seriously then just take a good look at your socks.

Patrick Ogunnaike is an entrepreneur, writer, and marketer based in Canada.

STYLE WATCH MAKEUP TIPS

23

E

veryone turns Boomer age and older, but why must you look that way? Here are a few great makeup tips for those over 40 but who would never admit it.

As with all makeup you need to start with great skin. Before you start any makeup application you need to cleanse then moisturize your face.

Make sure you moisturize with creams and serums that are rich with retinols, antioxidants and peptides to help wage war on those all tell all fine lines.

Before applying foundation use a silicone rich primer to help create a smoother finish. Makeup for those over 40 means we may need to start wearing foundation to help cover up small problems that turn up. There are some whose skin will never need foundation. Sun spots are common for those over 40 and a little concealer with foundation will help eliminate the discoloration.

If ruddiness (redness) is a problem, try this: Start by applying a sheer foundation and apply several light layers of foundation over the areas that need more coverage, then gradually build until you have full coverage. You will find a yellow based foundation works best, but do try to match it to your own personal skin tone.

Test on your jaw line in natural light if possible. Don’t test it on the back of your hand when trying out foundations, the skin tone won’t match and you will find that the color of foundation will be not quite right. If possible look at your skin in natural lighting to see if the foundation you are thinking of buying looks similar to your genuine skin color .

Playing up your eyes: Eye shadows you wore when you were in your 30’s may not be right now. Yet someone came up with a silly rule that once you hit 40 its time to put away all your favorite vivid greens, purples and pink eye shadows. Rules are not the same any longer, just change a little. All you need to do is stay away from any iridescent eye shadows because they will accentuate fine lines.

Still, feel the need to wear one of your favorite color of eye shadow that’s a bit wild? Do so, but start with your makeup primer, then apply a neutral color, your browns, beiges, bone then layer over that your favorite “I’m not over 40” eye shadow. Best for parties, but why not have fun?

Don’t forget your eyeliner either, apply along your lash line then smudge it to help give your lashes a fuller look.

Be careful with the color of eyeliner you choose, black may be too harsh for you now. Also don’t forget to curl your lashes before applying your mascara as a way to open up your eyes and if you want really long full eye lashes look into one of the new eyelash enhancers.

Just because you have reached the Boomer years doesn’t mean you’re makeup needs to change drastically, just a little. Tone down some colors and start wearing foundation if you don’t already do so, and start using a cream blush instead of a dry blush. Drink lots of water and go back to taking on the world on your terms!

Carla McMahon is a freelance writer on issues of interest to women.

24

STYLE WATCH X

STYLE WATCH MEN’S SPA

25

rips to the spa have been a favorite activity of the female gender for years. Sisters, daughters, family and friends gather to take day trips or even overnight trips to Spa where they can indulge in selfpampering. These spa trips come complete with facials, massages, elegant baths, skincare, and other, more exotic treatments all aimed at relaxation and pampering.

Until, recently, however these spa days were something entirely feminine. Most men would not be caught dead in such a place where skin treatments, massages, and facials were common. Today, however things have changed as spas have expanded to allow for a new form of clients-men of all ages, sizes, and needs.

Looking for a gift for a husband, boyfriend, or friend?

A day trip to a spa may be just what he needs after a long week at work. This will give him a chance to do something for himself for once and make a perfect gift. The spa will provide a chance to relax, recollect, and pamper himself-something he would not regularly do. While at the same time he will be giving his body a chance at healing and pampering. Give him an opportunity at self-indulgence, while still allowing him to maintain his masculinity which he holds so dear.

Today’s spas have not merely adapted their methods to serve their male clientele. They have developed completely new methods and services to appease them instead. Often times, these methods contour to the needs and stresses of the male body to ensure maximum relation and enjoyment. Regardless of his occupation or the amount of time he puts into his appearance, he will love a trip to the spa whether he realizes it at first or not.

Not sure he will go alone? Make it a couple’s trip and go with him the first time. You will only make his time spent relaxing more enjoyable. Many spa’s even have couples programs which include Couple’s Massages, Facials, and Baths. They allow the couple to relax while at the same time giving them a chance to enjoy each other’s company.

The types of services one can chose at a spa are endless, ranging from massage to hair removal. Today, one of the growingly popular services is a professional facial shave.

Many day spa’s and “Men’s Spa’s” offer specially designed shaves for their clients. These shaves are not the quick shave he does every morning in the shower. Often time, the shave can take upwards of an hour. They are done by a professional and use only the best products. Usually, they shave begins with a facial scrub to remove dead skin and to prepare the face to be shaved. After being cleansed, the client then has a lather of hot shaving cream placed on their face, after first being given a hottowel facial treatment. Finally, after the face is lathered and ready to be shaved, the professional spa consultant begins the shave. Slowly, they will use a special razor to give close shave, without irritation or missed spots.

Once pampered watch your male want to return to the bliss of the day at the spa, the Men’s Spa that is!

Sarah Graham is freelance and a writer for Premier Football Souvenirs, a UK based, internet company, specializing in the retail of football gifts from the English Premier League.

26

BOOM VOYAGE BERMUDA GOLF

A

golfer’s paradise with 9 golf courses, more courses per square mile than any other country in the world. Bermuda’s beautiful landscapes and exquisite climate make it the perfect place for golf club hopping. Lush Bermuda grass fairways, seaside rough, and enchanted winds will put your woods and irons to the test. Spectacular views of turquoise waters and colorful white-roofed cottages accent the hilltop greens.

The atmosphere is lulling, however do not be fooled, the courses will not coddle you. Like all respectable opponents, their beauty has its price the water obstacles appear as wide as the ocean and sand traps very few courses can match.

Ocean View Golf Course is a 9 hole, public course with many elevated tees overlooking the ocean, giving you the opportunity to play a few holes while your eyes are exploring the incredible vistas. You will attempt to keep your mind focused and concentrate on making your shot, yet I know it is a double edged sword, the beauty of the scenery or being able to say you played par.

The course also has a driving range and is the perfect location for a quick round of golf or just to practice a few shots. Ocean View is the course to enjoy with the family. Your youngsters will take pleasure in their time on this course, as it a short fun course and then they will want to head for the beach to surf or swim.

Golfing in Bermuda is like having your own private course, with so many courses, tee times are easily available and the pace of play is leisurely. You’ll have plenty of time to contemplate your 30 foot putt with no distractions except for the occasional song of a yellow breasted Kiskadee.

Our last evening in Bermuda was going to be a special time so we selected a restaurant with a colorful past, Tom Moore’s Tavern. Built in the 1650’s it maintains a sense of history in the walls while the chef ’s innovative cuisine captured my heart, especially his spinach potato combination and the banana caramel pudding. After dinner, we wandered outside to the terrace for a view of Walsingham Bay.

Several of the courses are my favorites and Port Royal Golf Course rates number one on my hit parade. It is ranked among the world’s best public golf courses by Golf Digest. It has stunning ocean views, breathtaking Bermuda landscapes and is home to one of the greatest holes in golf, the second hole is 567 yards and you begin to wonder if you will be able to stay the round. It is the longest course in Bermuda with over 6,842 yards and by far the most picturesque course in Bermuda. Robert Trent Jones designed this incredible course, which you will want to return to play again and again. The 2009/2010 PGA Grand Slam of Golf Tournament was held at Port Royal.

Of Course, golf in Bermuda is a year-round delight, but there’s something about warm breezes that makes the greens and fairways the greatest in January and February. It’s the siren song Bermuda sings to golfers.

The lure of a golf rendezvous. Eighteen holes out of the reach of the cold with the atmosphere of Britain and intimate restaurants hidden in coves around the Island.

28

REDEFINING NEW BUSINESS IN RETIREMENT

by Tracey Fieber

Whether you planned all along to start a new business in retirement or you decided after leaving the work force that you want to get back in the game, retirement can be an excellent time to start a new business. But starting a business after working a full career is very different from starting a business when you’re younger.

If you’re considering launching an encore entrepreneurial career, set yourself up for success by following these tips. ◆ Be clear about your reasons. Before you make any major decisions about what type of business you want to start and what your goals for it are, be clear about why you’re starting a new business in the first place.

Do you need money? Do you miss the interaction from your working days? Have you discovered a solution to a problem that you want to share?

Knowing what you want to get out of your venture will help you make decisions along the way. ◆ Start with what you know-or take time to fill your knowledge gaps. If you worked in one industry for decades, you’re probably familiar with how that industry could be made better, and your new business could aim to fill the holes you saw during your life of full-time work. If you’re looking for a complete change of pace, though, it’s probably a good idea to prepare by taking classes, reading up, and interviewing people familiar with the industry you’re looking to join. ◆ Focus on what you love to do. A retirement business could simply be a way for you to monetize your favorite hobby. Even if you aren’t earning significant income from a hobby-based business, you’ll be enjoying yourself along the way!

◆ Consider franchising. Operating a franchise may be a lower-risk alternative to starting a business completely from scratch. Franchise opportunities often provide training and operating templates, which takes some pressure off you (but will also give you less freedom to do things “your way”).

Use your network! You’ve spent a lifetime building connections, and now you can use them to improve the success of your business. If you start a business in a field related to the one you retired from, those contacts may be especially useful. But even if your associates are only helping to spread the word about your new business, you’ll find their help to be invaluable. ◆ Start small. Taking on personal debt in retirement can be much riskier than doing so when you’ve got more time ahead of you to repay it. Choosing a business that allows you to invest only a little money up front is an excellent way to keep your risk to a minimum in this phase of your life. ◆ Invest wisely (i.e. conservatively). In retirement, you may not want to (or be able to) work the grueling hours you did in your 20s. With that in mind, keep investments conservative so you don’t find yourself working harder than you want just to keep your head above water. ◆ Keep it fun. Remember: you’re choosing to go back to work. Avoid regretting that choice by maintaining the positive, rewarding aspects of whatever work you decide to do!

Tracey Fieber is a freelance writer and business strategist.

REDEFINING FUN ADVICE RETIREMENT

29

Chill Out

Don’t Stop Moving

Retirement does not necessarily mean that it is the end of the world for you.

Instead, a period opens up a whole new other chapter for you to add to the book that is your life. As one journey ends, another one begins. On the other hand, better yet, let me rephrase that: as one adventure ends, another adventure begins. And how can we make retirement an adventure? Well, here is some fun advice on your retirement that may just do the trick.

So after the party, what are you going to do? Well, we are not going to let things go downhill from here, are we? So here is the second fun advice on retirement. However, this advice is something ordinary it will really help you feel good and lively. This next advice would be to have regular physical exercise. Any type of exercise would do, it can be a simple walk around the block to an “ironman” workout. Whatever it is, the essential thing is you get your blood circulating, your body up, and moving.

Exercise will also not make you feel good, but make you more attractive as well.

Start The End With A Bang One of the things that will really be a great head start for this new adventure your going to have is to have an awesome retirement party. After all, you deserve it. You have successfully completed one stage in life and are moving on to the next. Besides, parties are especially great to hold. I mean, think of the gifts you are to going receive from friends and well-wishers. Speaking of gifts, there is no shortage for choices there either. There are just a lot of retirement gifts that you will really like. There are retirement gag gifts, retirement t-shirts, as well as lovely and poignant retirement poems. Be sure to play some retirement-friendly games too, such as bingo and darts as these games will surely liven up the gathering. So remember, to start your retirement right, you need to get an awesome retirement party.

Flex Those Mental Muscles So after you have exercise your body, the next thing to do would be to exercise your mind. And there is no better mind exercise than reading and learning. The key here is to read, write, or even research. You can read books, magazines, or newspapers. Go on-line and learn something new. You can even take electives in universities and try to pursue that one course or subject you’ve always wanted. By exercising your mind, you will be sharp. Likewise, you will avoid getting bored, apathetic or worse, becoming a sloth. Therefore, start opening up your mind and learn something new.

30

REDEFINING FUN ADVICE RETIREMENT

Relax After all that exercise you would need some “relax” time for yourself. Relaxing is one of the most fun advice on your retirement that anyone can give. And what would that time consist of? Well, that means doing something that will make you smile. This activity can be anything calm and relaxing for you. You can choose among a variety of options. You may enroll in Tai chi or other meditation classes. Or you may opt for really simple activities such as walking your dog, gardening, cooking, playing the guitar or piano, playing with your grandkids, or having a movie marathon. Whatever makes you smile, do it.

See? Retirement need not be such a bore. Now you don’t have to be anxious about reaching this stage in your life.

In fact, this is a chance for you to celebrate the success from all that hard work you had. This is a time for you to explore uncharted areas that you’ve always wanted to discover.

There is no secret to a happy retirement. Achieving happiness in this period in your life all rests in you. If you make it monotonous, it will be just that. But if you map out in advance what exciting and new things you can do during your retirement, you boredom will be the least of your worries. Come to think of it, the best fun advice on your retirement is to plan for it. Prepare a game plan and stick to it. Surely, you will have a ball.

Nobody thought retirement would be this good.

Elijah James is a journalist for a local newspaper in new jersey, he loves to research different topics online and share his research for everybody to enjoy.

A

s a Baby Boomer, you may be asking yourself: “With all my credentials and the successes I’ve had in the past, how come business is not coming to me easier and faster? I feel like I’m at the top of my game!” You may have even thought to yourself, “I’ve spent years honing my skills…my track record is exceptional…I just don’t get it!”

If this is the case…you’re not alone! Many Baby Boomers are experiencing the exact same phenomenon these days.

Recently while facilitating a MasterMind session (a MasterMind session is a gathering of likeminded individuals who participate in sharing their issues to the group one at a time; and then are presented with various ideas from the group to address those issues); I had the opportunity to speak with a number of highly talented, deeply committed and top quality individuals. As happens in many MasterMind sessions, the issue of one of the participants became central to all and seemed to resonate with the vast majority of participates as something they too are dealing with currently.

In this mastermind, the topic became why willing, talented, exuberant professionals were not being taken up on their offers to use their talents to help others that definitely had a need for their expertise.

There were a number of potential explanations discussed including new technologies that had come into play; younger generations seem to know it all; communications have become more cryptic in our immediate gratification texting society. And then the likely yet usual answer popped up…”Prom Queen Syndrome”.

REDEFINING HOLDING YOU BACK

31

trappings that generate the perceptions of those types of concerns in others aren’t nearly as important to us Boomers as we once thought. And what becomes far more important is giving back, sharing and lifting others up by giving a hand up rather than a hand out.

“What the heck is Prom Queen Syndrome?” Simply put, it was an expression someone used in the meeting to describe the situation where nobody walks up and talks to the Prom Queen at the prom…because they’re the Prom Queen (seemingly too pretty, possibly aloof, etc.).

Huh? What? That doesn’t make sense!

No it doesn’t…but it happens all the time…and the person that suggested the idea said they were talking about their perception of a number of folks in the MasterMind…including me. What? Let me explain.

We live in a day and age where reality and perception are many times “miles apart”. Reality is what’s really going on and perception is what some thinks is going on. Perception is a funny thing but one thing is for sure…another person’s perception becomes their reality.

What others’ perceive about you is far more important many times than what they actually know.

So how does this all relate back to Boomers not having an easier time of it in today’s business environment?

Simple…many of the examples discussed in our MasterMind related to Boomers that definitely had developed the expertise in their crafts…in fact, so much so that sometimes people that really needed that expertise were afraid to ask them for help because their perception was that the Boomer was unapproachable, too expensive, or wouldn’t be willing to work with the person in need (even though this isn’t the case).

What I’ve found throughout my travels, speeches, trainings and coaching sessions, is it’s usually just the opposite. By definition, as we Boomers begin the second half of our lives, we realize that many of the

As for “Prom Queen Syndrome”, what’s the worst thing that can happen when you ask them to dance…they say no? Like that’s never happened before…or never will again. Your life didn’t get worse! Take Boomers up on their offers. Boomers have reached this stage in their lives because they have ventured out, learned great lessons, been through the good, the bad and the ugly, and are still looking to live with greater enthusiasm than ever before.

If you really want to be taken up on your offers of help and greater contribution, my suggestion is that you go back to basics. Let those you wish to know your desires…know your heart-felt desires so they can help share that message when possible. When appropriate, you may want to share the concept of why you do what you do publically so others can hear it directly from you.

Enroll others in your vision and the reasons behind it.

And help others imagine how they’re world would be positively impacted by learning from your expertise.

You’ve got plenty of what other people need…help them get it!

In fact, for those of you that could use some “Words of Encouragement”, please feel free to go to: www.

TWGFreeGift.com and get the Free download of the audio…and the PDF of the book Talking with Giants!

Powerful Leaders Share Life Lessons.

Imagine how much different things could be if we took all the experience and years of knowledge from the Boomer generation and shared it all who needed it.

Wow…it’s awesome to even think about!

If there is ever anything I can do to help you or be of service in any way, please feel free to call on me!

Scott Schilling is a Business Growth Expert that speaks, trains, coaches and writes on topics specifically designed to help others make positive improvements in their thoughts, actions and success. To learn more please visit: www.ScottSchilling.com

32

WEALTHY & WISE WEALTH FACTOR

WEALTHY & WISE WEALTH FACTOR

The wider the gap between what you produce and what you consume, the greater will be the possibility of increased wealth for you. If you spend all that comes in for you as income on a consistent basis wealth creation will be far from you. However if on the other hand you delay immediate consumption of all that you produce you are more likely to be moving toward the accumulation of wealth over time. Of course how you apply the surplus that results is vital to the way your wealth will grow; do you gamble it away, or do you invest it in say the stock market or some other profitable venture?

How do you produce more than you consume?

One of the simplest ways of doing this is by cutting down on your expenses. You can certainly start your wealth-building this way. Before every expense ask yourself these two questions: “Do I really need this?” and “Can I pay less to get it?” Don’t go for trendy label that will cost you more. Resolutely restrict your credit card spending. Determine to discipline yourself to resist every avenue that seeks to remove your money from your pocket. You need to be able to say ‘no’ to enticements and to give up some of the unnecessary luxuries. If you’re not willing to do that, then you wouldn’t be able to turn your financial life around.

The other side of producing more than you consume is actually to make more money. If you increase your earning and keep your spending unchanged, you’ll immediately move from living paycheck to paycheck to spending less than you earn. One easy first step is to look for things you no longer need and sell them off for cash. Another step is to actually look for work to do part-time or take a bold step to start a small business of your own. While working at a job, you can do things in your spare time to earn extra money.

How do you utilize the surplus (i.e. the difference between what you produce and consume) in order to grow your wealth?

The thing to do with your surplus fund is to put it to work so as to grow it. You do this by investing the money. You need to invest so as to keep the value

33

of your money from inflation. The money you have today will not have the same value tomorrow. Inflation decreases the value of money. Investing your money in avenues with high return than the rate of inflation will make the value of your money grow.

Every investment has some level of risk, going from low-risk to very high-risk. Finding the safest investment requires understanding risk, your comfort levels and finding investments that have performed well historically.

Note also that while the return on your money is important, the safety of your funds is more important.

So go safe in your investing.

Conclusion The financially intelligent person produces more than he or she consumes. By following the above plan you can come to wealth and secure your financial future. Even a low paid person, applying this principle will get into financial freedom than the rich who consume all they produce.

When you have surplus money to invest, you want to make sure it is a safe investment that can yield a return.

By combining all the right elements you can get the best investment results.

Ultimately by spending less than you earn and putting the surplus to work by investing it, instead of using it to purchase things now, you end up having several rewards. You can build income for retirement, earn steady passive income, and even go on to build up funds for future investments and business endeavors. The simple strategies discussed above can help you achieve these effectively.

Frank Alof is an online writer on various topics including insightful guides on overcoming debt and money problems.

34

BOOMER BUZZ BUZZ WITH BEVERLY

The Blind Date Do you have friends and family who are so concerned about you that they are always finding someone to introduce to you? You get frustrated because it makes you feel like you can’t make your own connections or you have been on so many that you are just tired or you feel they just don’t get it. They tell you: “You have to meet Jane. She is so much fun. I know you and she would get along so well. Why don’t you come over on Saturday? I want to introduce you to her.”

Your friends may suggest a double date or they may just ask to share your phone number with the other party. You are not too sure, again, but you agree.

You ask, “Now what?”

That fact is blind dating is a relatively safe way of meeting people because a family member, a friend, co-worker or even a neutral third party, sets up the date. The person making the connection usually knows both parties and believes they would make a great couple.

Why would you want to say yes to this fairly simple method of meeting someone? The reason you want to say yes is, hopefully, your friend knows the other person as well as they know you. They might even be right about the two of you connecting and getting along well together. Make sure it isn’t someone they just met because they may not know enough about them to make a judgment on the compatibility factor between the two of you. This may have been the case, if they had “fixed” you up before and the connection didn’t work. If so, give your “matchmaker” some criteria to assess before they make the next suggestion.

Sometimes your “matchmaker” will give you an idea of what the other person looks like via description or they may have shown you a picture or you may get the “they are a nice person” speech.

Your “matchmaker” may tell you about the person’s personality or they may give you many reasons

why you should consider dating their choice. Try to get as much information as possible about the person before you make the date and be sure your “matchmaker” knows the other person well before you say yes.

Because the person you are going to meet will be someone you have never met or spoken to before, you will want enough information to be able to carry on a decent conversation. The information you gather can help you decide where you are going to meet or how you are going to spend your time together. All of this can help ensure the date will not be a total disaster.

We are all apprehensive when we meet someone on any date. However, in this instance, you are feeling an extra amount of concern because you don’t want to offend your friend or family member if this person is not a match. You will be on your super best behavior because you are not sure if the person will like you and you don’t know if you will like the other person. Even if the two of you decide you are not a compatible couple, you might meet someone who becomes a very good friend in the end.

I have found that some people really enjoy being set up on a blind date and blind dates can turn into successful relationships if the right people create the best connection. I highly recommend that you consider a blind date as another avenue in you quest to find a partner.

To receive a copy of my book “From Prude to Siren, 3 Stages to Fantastic Sex and a Rewarding Relationship” available from Authorhouse.com, Barnes and Noble and Amazon send your relationship questions to askbev@boomerbuzzmagazine.com

BOOMER BUZZ BOOK REVIEW

T

hree years in the making, this is an intriguing new biography of three cousins raised in the small town of Ferriday, Louisiana during the Great Depression.

A journey you will enjoy walking with the cousins, who became famous for their musical talents.

Struggling with the world they lived in Jerry Lee Lewis, Jimmy Swaggert and Mickey Gilley were determined to open doors through their love and dedication to music.

J.D. Davis, author of Unconquered, and fan of the music the cousins created, has captured the desperation of each man as they fought to emerge from the lowest points in their lives. His research and dedication to detail puts you back in time to share each step with them and you can almost hear the beat of the music through his words. Davis has shown how music can create power to improve your life and also demonstrates the beginnings of pop culture. This being his first book, it took more time than he originally projected and it was a dramatic departure from his everyday life as a financial analyst in the actuarial field where he managed a staff of 200. The book was definitely a labor of love since he also enjoyed spending time with his family, wife and three daughters.

35

The deeper I got into reading the book, it was apparent, the public will enjoy the details of the story and the future of “Unconquered” will be on a big movie screen.

The story depicts the unique tale of the beginning of America’s pop culture music scene while showcasing the cousins talents and how each one rose to the heights in the music world, releasing the pain of poverty they experienced while growing up. Religious observances were a large part of the life of each cousin and Jimmy Swaggert broke through many barriers with his talent for both his music and preaching style. Jerry Lee Lewis was drawn to the piano and over the years his talent took him to both the heights and depths of the music industry. Mickey Gilley emerged as one of the greatest musicians of his time including opening a theatre in Branson to continue his commitment to the cousins musical talents.

When I asked J.D. how he selected the name for the book, he shared the story of a game the cousins played.

One of the boys would perform a daring stunt and others would have to follow suit or be “conquered”.

Whether it was jumping from boxcar to boxcar or executing the latest death-defying feat on their bicycles, each of the cousins was always looking for a chance to come up with a new amazing feat that would top the other two. Through the course of their lives and careers, these three men have experienced numerous peaks and valleys. Nevertheless, the same dogged determination to never give up – to never be “conquered” – has kept each of them moving forward, meeting new challenges and scaling new heights. Now, all three have passed the three-quarters-of-a-century mark, and each remains truly “Unconquered”.

36

BLOG SPEAK WEIGHT LOSS EFFORTLESS

How can something so hard be so effortless? It has to do with choice, a person’s choice to go down the path of bad habits, or the path of good habits.

So what we do in a hypnotic state is create a feeling so good associated with the right choices and a feeling sooooo bad associated with the old self defeating habits that the person naturally desires the good feeling.

Feeling + Thought = Behavior.

Sad + Ice Cream is good = eating the ice cream Satisfied + I want more of this feeling = 1 hour work out at gym

This formula works to your advantage or disadvantage and hypnosis works to change the feeling and the thought so your behavior matches the behavior of a person that is the size and shape you want to be.

Here are some positive affirmations you can use to build up the good feelings and thoughts and move to a new healthy behavior.

• I’m healthy and in control.

• I eat with awareness.

• I recognize my feelings and take care of my emotional needs in a way that is healthy and supports my lifetime commitment.

• I naturally crave nutritious foods and beverages.

• I feel myself getting healthier each day.

• I love how it feels to have my pants loose around my waist.

• I love making good and healthy choices.

• I enjoy this newfound energy and freedom.

Powerful suggestions that are given during hypnosis allow a person to think and act in a positive way and be in control around choices about food.

Hope these affirmations are helpful to you. And remember: when the mind is properly directed it can be effortless!

Valerie A. Grimes, CHt, Clinical Hypnotist is a freelance writer and recognized master at helping people overcome the negative belief systems, false opinions and self-defeating habits. www. dallashypnosisprograms.com

BLOG SPEAK FIBROMYALGIA

37

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic condition that impacts its victims in every aspect of their lives. The day has to be planned around how one might feel at certain times of the day and is always in the foreground of a FM victim’s mind. Many patients who present for treatment of FM ask us about what resources are available for them and therefore, this is the subject of this month’s Health Update.

The National Fibromyalgia Association (NFA) was founded in 1997 in Orange, California and has become the largest nonprofit (501c3) FM specific organization.

The initial goal was to help patients with FM find doctors who were willing to treat and manage FM patients as this was a BIG CHALLENGE and remains an important focus of the organization today. The mission of the NFA is to improve the quality of life for the FM patient and to find a team who embraces that premise by creating and offering many programs, high profile media campaigns, and providing training to support group leaders across the country. Their philosophy is to, “…empower patients and to provide them with a new level of hope for the future.” To that effect, the NFA evolved to include the development of an educational web site, the publication of an international magazine (“Fibromyalgia AWARE”), as well as developing medical education programs. The NFA website includes a “Resource” tab at the their homepage that leads to a listing of many great options that can be accessed at the click of a button: http://fmaware.org/PageServer4a00. html?pagename=resources_directory Here is an interesting place for health care providers and patients with FM to review research articles on FM from 1981 to 2002, with over 300 references available: http://www.myalgia.com/refs%2081%20to%200302.htm

Another good resource for information on FM is the New York Times Health Guide: http://health.nytimes.com/health/guides/disease/ fibromyalgia/resources.html There are many places one can acquire information about FM. The list provided here barely scratches the surface. Simply google “fibromyalgia resources” to find almost anything you’ll need.

Dr. Adorable has been a full-time clinical practitioner for over 18 years practicing, researching, studying and helping patients get out of pain. He is a freelance writer and speaker. www. advancedwellnessrehab.com

38

MEDICAL MATTERS SHOULDER SURGERY

H

aving already endured three surgeries to repair my loose right shoulder, I grew increasingly more curious about what actually occurs behind those ominous operating room doors. My interest piqued even further when my left shoulder began to loosen just as my right shoulder had done. Realizing I was facing another procedure to stabilize my shoulder and keep it from popping out, gave me a vested interest in viewing an actual shoulder surgery repair.

Fortunately, my surgeon was willing to let me both observe one of his actual cases and write about the procedure. As the date approached for viewing (which had to be cleared through a number of channels including the patient herself), I excitedly told friends and colleagues about my “opportunity” as I viewed it.

Surprisingly, most people I talked to tried to warn me off, telling me I would never voluntarily agree to another surgical procedure having watched one so like my own.

I wondered about this, then decided it was too good a chance to miss no matter what I came away with after the observation.

So with a little trepidation, I entered a hospital waiting room similar to the ones where I started my three previous surgeries. This time was different though.

Instead of getting prepped with a gown and an IV drip of various medicines, I was escorted back to the surgical desk area where I was given a temporary ID number to receive my scrubs for the morning from a Scrubex machine. I changed into a pair of nondescript green scrubs, put on a hair net and was handed a mask to wear. Being a non-astute medical garb wearer, I humbly accepted help on donning all three appropriately.

With a curt, “Follow me,” I was taken into the operating room right in step with the patient I would observe and I noticed she was still awake and chatting comfortably with nurses and technicians. Standing as near as I could to watch the surgery, I took copious notes for the next two hours. Transported, that’s what it felt like…to a completely foreign world where a team consisting of an anesthesiologist, a nurse anesthetist, the orthopedic surgeon, two certified surgical technicians, and a circulating nurse performed a marvelous dance of both precision and skill. I was amazed at how seamlessly every single clinical step meshed one to another; every person anticipated each other’s next move and responded in a well executed rhythm all under the surgeon’s expert guidance and instructions. It was an experience I won’t soon forget.

MEDICAL MATTERS SHOULDER SURGERY

39

After this patient was put under a general anesthetic and intubated, I watched closely as the surgeon made his incisions using the patient’s bony anatomy to keep his orientation. I looked on as a saline solution was injected into her injured shoulder to allow better visual clarity and to help ease the movement of the arthroscope (a pen sized instrument inserted into a joint through a 1/2 inch incision). The patient received pain medication injections; and several scopes were inserted at the beginning of the procedure. Two the surgeon manipulated to perform the repairs while viewing a high definition TV monitor; the third was the camera he moved around to seek out and inspect the damaged areas.

At various junctures, miscellaneous drill-like instruments were applied to the troublesome shoulder areas via the scope sites, each one serving a unique purpose in the tedious corrective procedure. After approximately two hours time, the surgeon repaired this patient’s rotator cuff (using one screw (anchor) with three sutures); performed a SAD (Subacromial Decompression) which removed a bone spur from her shoulder blade; and did a Biceps Tenotomy (cutting the biceps tendon).

Once the surgery was completed (and the patient was sutured, cleaned up, and her newly repaired shoulder placed securely in a sling), I followed her to the Phase I recovery room where I learned even more about the risks and stresses of the surgery itself and how nurses carefully monitor each individual as they begin to awaken from anesthesia. The nurse attending to this still semi-unconscious patient explained the precautions taken to ensure every individual under medical care is prepared to make a full recovery.

When the patient was alert and met all the vital sign criteria, she was moved to Phase II recovery where her family rejoined her. A different team of nurses answered release questions, prepared her discharge papers and offered miscellaneous creature comforts. This particular patient, was released to go directly home. Some patients are kept in the hospital overnight or longer depending upon extenuating circumstances or special health requirements.

On this spring morning, in just one surgical operating room, I was initiated into a world of clinical terms, medical phraseology, and complex technical procedures I had only imagined before. Perhaps the most significant

40

MEDICAL MATTERS SHOULDER SURGERY takeaway I learned from my morning in the OR, was the individuals who make this their workplace, there is no decision or movement deemed insignificant. Each of the minutest paces medical professionals put themselves through is done with a specific purpose in mind: to ensure the safety and the healing of their patient. Humbled and honestly overwhelmed, I recognized how helpful it would be if all laypeople could witness some type of surgical procedure in order to fully appreciate the expertise of the men and women behind their ultimate physical recovery.

Changing back into my own clothing, I deposited my scrubs into the Scrubex machine for cleaning whereupon I was given “7” credits for the return. On that score, I know I have come away with far more than a credit to my account.

Michele Howe is a freelance writer with over 1200 reviews/ articles to her credit.

On A Need To Know Basis: What Every Patient Needs To Know Dr. Christopher A. Foetisch, orthopedic surgeon at the Toledo Clinic, Toledo, OH, offers the following pre-surgical preparation recommendations. Note how the most effective pre-surgical steps women can take encompass readying both the mind and body.

Body Facts To Consider Before Surgery: Information to Heal Strong

• Stress, depression and anxiety prior to surgery have all been linked to poor recovery after surgery. Note also that elevated levels of cortisol; the body’s primary stress hormone, negatively affects wound healing. High cortisol levels dampen the immune response. As a result, this imbalance can delay healing while increasing the risk for wound problems such as post-surgical infections.

• Any surgical procedure places an increased demand on the body. As a result, protein and calorie needs are increased 20-50% over normal requirements. Without enough dietary protein, the body must break down muscle and organ tissue that can impair the immune system and deplete energy and strength needed for recovery.

• Exercise has a clearly demonstrated a positive effect on surgical outcomes. According to a 2005 report from the Journal of Gerontology, wound healing is 25% faster in those patients that exercised three weeks prior to surgery compared to those who maintained their normal routine. Additionally, exercise improves circulation and strength that lead to increased mobility after surgery.

How We Think: Making Your Mental Expectations Work for You

• Individuals need to embrace a “can do” attitude. Those patients who are invested in their own recovery, typically do extremely well relative to those who are apprehensive or anxious prior to surgery.

• The power of positive thinking does go a long way. Most often, if an individual thinks she will do well, she does.

Flipside, when a person anticipates struggling or frets about experiencing potential problems after surgery; that individual’s recovery will be much tougher.

• Adopt reasonable expectations. Getting well takes time and patients must be willing to commit both emotionally and physically to the recovery process to create the best environment for healing strong.

What To Do: Simple Measures to Positive Results

• Make sure to eat a balanced diet that has adequate protein intake.

• Exercise for a minimum of three weeks prior to surgery.

• Avoid pre-surgical stress and anxiety or consider delaying an elective procedure until the intense season has passed or can be more easily managed.

• Ask yourself self-check questions regarding your overall attitude toward the surgical procedure and your willingness to be fully committed to the recovery process.

What is a Geriatric Care Manager?

A geriatric care manager is a professional who specializes in assisting elders and their families with crisis interventions, short-term and long-term care arrangements. Care managers have an advanced degree in gerontology, social work, nursing or counseling.

Geriatric Care Managers can help:

• Conduct care planning assessments to identify problems, eligibility for assistance and need for services • Screen, arrange, and monitor in home help or other services • Review financial, legal or medical issues and offer referrals to geriatric specialists to avoid future problems and conserve assets • Provide crisis intervention • Act as a liaison to families at a distance, making sure things are going well and alerting families to problems • Assist with moving an older person to or from a retirement complex, care home, or nursing home • Provide consumer education and advocacy • Offer counseling and support to elder and family members

Geriatric care managers have extensive knowledge about the costs, quality and availability of services in their community. One call to a geriatric care manager will connect you with the services an older person may need.

Serving Denton, Dallas, Ft. Worth, Waco and Surrounding Areas

Compass ElderCare Solutions, LLC “Professional ElderCare Guidance”

Cheryl Lenheiser, LCSW Owner

Michele Osentowski, LMSW Owner

Tel: 972.417.3900 Fax: 972.539.7006

www.compasseldercare.com

Member of National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers

Spend Your Business Hours Doing What You Are Good At...

Leave the Writing to Me!

What is a Geriatric Care Manager?

A geriatric care manager is a professional who specializes in assisting elders and their families with crisis interventions, short-term and long-term care arrangements. Care managers have an advanced degree in gerontology, social work, nursing or counseling.

Geriatric Care Managers can help: Writing Customized Copy

Compass ElderCareOwners, Solutions, LLC Services for Business “Professional ElderCare Guidance” Entrepreneurs & Solo-Entrepreneurs Cheryl Lenheiser, LCSW Michele Osentowski, LMSW

• Conduct care planning assessments to identify problems, eligibility for assistance and need for services • Screen, arrange, and monitor in home help or other services • Review financial, legal or medical issues and offer referrals to geriatric specialists to avoid future problems and conserve assets E-Mail Newsletters • Provide crisis intervention • Act as a liaison to families at a distance, making sure things are Blog Posts going well and alerting families to problems • Assist with moving an older person to or from a retirement complex, Article Submissions care home, or nursing home Ghost Writing • Provide consumer education and advocacy • Offer counseling and support to elder and family members

SEO Website Strategy

Owner

Owner

Auto-Responders Press Releases Business Letters Company Profiles Tel: 972.417.3900 Fax: 972.539.7006 Lead Generating Letters www.compasseldercare.com

Geriatric care managers have extensive knowledge about the costs, For an information kit, general questions or to set up a complimentary strategy quality and availability of services in their community. One call to a the services an older geriatric care manager will connect you with Please email shaywriter@yahoo.com or call (214) 605-5023 Association Member of National person may need. of Professional Geriatric Care Managers Serving Denton, Dallas, Ft. Worth, Waco and Surrounding Areas

session...

42

MEDICAL MATTERS NAVIGATING HEALTH CARE

Advocacy: The GPS for Navigating the Health Care System By Cynthia Stock

T

his past month my sister was diagnosed with breast cancer. Graced with good health, she had not been in the hospital in twenty-seven years.

I wanted to be useful, to be there for her, which was difficult because she lives in the Northeast and I live in North Texas. I decided to give the next best thing to my being there, I gave her knowledge.

I have been a bedside nurse for almost forty years. As with any business, the health care industry has adapted to meet increasing demands. Computers, higher acuity to justify hospital stays, technology, and a maturing population have changed the health care system for better and for worse. The challenge is to provide streamlined, cost conscious, consistent care within a large, dynamic system, while maintaining a hands-on Mom and Pop approach that individualizes that care.

I thought about the best way to help my sister. The first term that came to mind was “advocacy.” By standard definition, advocacy is the act of pleading a cause, writing or speaking in defense. An advocate speaks for a patient when he/she is: too weak, too incapacitated, too overwhelmed by the situation to be able to express needs, questions, and wants. An advocate doesn’t need to be a health care professional, but can be anyone who knows the patient and isn’t afraid to speak up. My sister had three advocates: her husband, herself and me.

Before her first doctor’s appointment, she had a file of information organized in a notebook. She had a check list of questions common to most of the web sites she had visited. She was also very aware of the curse of too much information. Without being able to sift through the extraneous, how could she focus on what was relevant? By her own admission, she told me she was a numbers and statistics sort of person. It helped her maintain her calm if she had these in hand. The internet is an overwhelming source of testimonials, data, treatments, alternative therapies, and a continuum of the “what ifs” of a given diagnosis.

What could I do to help such a resourceful person?

First, I encouraged her to ask questions and to expect time, attention, and answers from her caregivers. As a nurse, I consider it a privilege to be allowed into the lives of people who are going through a hospitalization.

It is a time that demands intimacy, yet it sometimes feels like an invasion of privacy. This time should be handled with care and respect. From my years at the bedside, I have acquired a lot of knowledge, but I don’t know everything, can never know everything. I know where to go to find answers, and I tell my patients. For my sister knowledge gave her the control she felt was lost when she was first diagnosed.

MEDICAL MATTERS NAVIGATING HEALTH CARE She had already figured out she needed to maintain the highest level of wellness she could. She began to eat more protein, increased her amount of time doing Pilates, and even lost a few pounds.

I warned her she would not bond with every health care provider, but trust was essential. If she didn’t see someone wash their hands, I told her to ask about it.

She asked one nurse, one time, and never had to again.

She trusted that nurse.

Each facility asks for a complete list of medications, including herbals, over-the-counter drugs, and homeopathic treatments. It is a safeguard against drug interactions or symptoms of withdrawal. When asked about alcohol, drugs, and caffeine, be honest I told her. I drink a pot of coffee a day and have dreadful withdrawal headaches if I don’t drink at least one cup in the morning. I told my sister she had a right to know what medication she was getting and why. If she was too sleepy to ask, her husband did. Many facilities have an electronic scanning system for medication administration. If hers didn’t, I made sure she made sure the medication was intended for her.

43

of harmony when we were losing such an important part of our lives. The reality of illness, surgery, or any hospitalization is that there are no guaranteed outcomes.

Which leads to one last point of advocacy: Read all permits. Identify the risks. Ask questions!

Advocacy is not being accusatory or adversarial. It is speaking for the patient to make hospitalization less frightening, more comforting, and to get the patient to the place he wants to be as quickly as possible.

Cynthia Stock is a freelance writer in Dallas, Texas and a Registered Nurse.

The Patient’s Voice Since 1996 1. What is the National Patient Advocate Foundation?

The National Patient Advocate Foundation (NPAF) is a national non-profit organization providing the patient voice in improving access to, and reimbursement for, high-quality healthcare through regulatory and legislative reform at the state and federal levels..

2. When was National Patient Advocate Foundation established?

While in bed, I told her to wear her anti-embolism hose, sequential compression devices, or foot pumps. I stressed the importance of telling her providers that her family had a history of clots and clotting disorders.

National Patient Advocate Foundation and its companion organization, Patient Advocate Foundation, were founded in 1996 by Nancy Davenport-Ennis and Jack Ennis, to commemorate and honor a friend, Cheryl Grimmell, who lost her life to cancer.

Knowing her stoicism, I told my sister how pain relief was part of recovery and to take pain medication as needed. And then there was her tendency to overdo.

I gently mandated she listen to her doctor, her nurses, and her physical therapists when they told her what she could and could not do as she recovered from surgery.

3. Where is the National Patient Advocate Foundation located?

She planned on driving in forty-eight hours. About the time her Q-ball for pain ran out, she realized it would be a bit longer than that. I was relieved I didn’t slip into my authoritarian mode.

There is the subject no one wants to approach, especially with someone they love. Out of love, it is something that must be discussed: Advance Directives.

In the early 1970’s, before there was such a term, my father died of a highly malignant brain tumor. My mother had to make a decision about his treatment.

Dad had talked to us all about quality of life and what it meant. Dad worked hard, played hard, and exemplified living life to the fullest. Because of his openness, when Mom decided against further treatment, we knew it was what Dad would have wanted. He gave us the gift

NPAF is based in Washington, DC, where we meet with Members of Congress, the Department of Health and Human Services, and participate in many coalitions and patient advocacy initiatives.

4. How does the National Patient Advocate Foundation decide what issues to pursue?

NPAF is exclusively devoted to policy dialog that supports legislative and regulatory remedies to obstacles to healthcare access. Barriers to healthcare come in many different forms, and it is the mission of NPAF to address these problems at both federal and state policy levels.

5. I am a patient and need assistance obtaining, maintaining, or accessing healthcare services. Can you help?

NPAF’s companion organization, Patient Advocate Foundation, provides direct patient services. If you need information or assistance in order to obtain healthcare services or in navigating the healthcare system, please contact Patient Advocate Foundation at 1-800-532-5274 or visit them online at www.patientadvocate.org

44

SENIOR SCENE CARE-GIVING

“People who are considering caregiving often make one primary mistake, they do not look forward enough in the process. What today is considered as minor aid can quickly escalate into constant, twenty-four hour a day care.”

Then Renee lost her job. Suddenly, her mother decided the perfect solution was for Renee to move back in with her again. Things would be different this time, her mom promised. I’ve changed, she told Renee. Renee wasn’t so sure; then again with the housing and job market so shaky, this might be the their best option.

Dr. Christopher A. Foetisch, orthopedic surgeon When forty-nine-year-old Renee lost her job earlier in the year, she was stunned. Immediately, she began sending out resumes. Getting a job became her job. For seven months, she landed only a few interviews despite her advanced degree and experience. Renee wondered if she’d lose her home, her credit rating, and savings in one fell swoop. Then Renee’s mom called and her fretting took an entirely different turn.

Having recalled the strain of living with her mom caused Renee to think proactively on both small and large matters. She also recognized that even though her mom was giving lip service to wanting Renee back to care for her, her mom was infinitely fickle and today’s enthusiasm could very well die a sudden death once Renee settled in and the routine of daily life took over. Minute issues as how to tie the garbage bag properly or how to load the dishwasher were just a couple of irritants that had so upset Renee’s mom the first time around.

Several years earlier, Renee had answered the call to move in and care for with her ailing and then increasingly frail eighty-year-old mother. That arrangement lasted about nine months. No sooner had Renee agreed to sell her home and join households to care for her mother, than her mom changed her mind. Renee’s mother decided she didn’t want anyone living with her even though she needed outside assistance. Renee tried to reason with her elderly parent, tried accommodating her in every way possible, because Renee knew it was only a matter of time before her mom’s health would deteriorate to a point where it would be dangerous for her to live alone. So after much discussion that had led nowhere, Renee moved into an apartment and eventually purchased another home for her and her children.

Life went on pretty smoothly with Renee transporting her mom to appointments, doing her shopping for her, and making certain her mother’s home was well maintained. Renee wondered if perhaps her mom might actually realize her wish to stay in her home until she passed away. Renee herself certainly preferred living in her own home.

Weighing the pros and cons carefully, Renee decided to take pen to paper and begin listing areas were problematic for her mom as well as any differences in living arrangements that had caused upset for her aging mom. While making such a list was semi-depressing, Renee knew it was necessary. Once she got started, fresh questions and concerns arose too. Renee realized her mom was far less physically able to move and live safely than a few years earlier and with this deterioration, how would it affect her ability to go to work each day?

Certainly Renee had questions to get answered and challenges to overcome, but she also had the wisdom of hindsight and a clearer understanding of what it meant to enter someone else’s home (even at their request) and merge two households.

It wouldn’t be easy; care taking is never that.

But Renee’s goal wasn’t ease or comfort…it was taking care of someone close to her. It was a living out of that principle; treat others in the way you would want to be treated. Easy to accomplish?

Rarely. Right to do. Always.

SENIOR SCENE CARE-GIVING

45

By Michele Howe THE THREE ASPECTS OF CARE GIVING Emotional Considerations: Realize the parent you once knew and loved might be gone forever and be willing to grieve the loss of that relationship even while a parent is still alive.

Be prepared to take control of important decisionmaking regarding all aspects of care even when met with some resistance by the person in need.

Make peace with the fact that not all extended family members will step-up to assist in the way you might want and expect.

Spiritual Considerations: Before you enter into a care-giving situation enlist the support of friends and family who will commit to pray for you and those under your care.

Learn how to share your faith and life perspectives without receiving the appropriate responses back from the person you are caring for.

Be ready to journey along with your patient as they face their mortality and be prepared to listen and respond to their concerns.

Physical Considerations: Take good personal care of yourself as the primary caregiver by eating right, getting enough sleep and exercising daily.

Make use of professional care-giving agencies that can offer practical assistance with hygiene, dressing, and meal support.

Understand your personal limits before you reach them by scheduling away time regularly to recharge yourself mentally and physically.

Michele Howe is a freelance writer with over 1220 reviews/ articles to her credit and has been featured on numerous radio shows across the country.

CARE-GIVING FROM A PHYSICIAN’S PERSPECTIVE. Dr. Christopher A. Foetisch, orthopedic surgeon, Toledo, OH, offers the following observations from both a clinician’s standpoint and having served as a caregiver personally.

Providing care for a sick individual almost always requires more time and resources than most people realize.

Realize that the level of care can quickly change from minor to constant 24/7-hour care.

Caregivers need to ask themselves if they are “mentally tough enough” to help with bathing, bathroom, medications and possibly dressing changes or tubes and IV lines.

Before an individual becomes overwhelmed, decide ahead of time when the need for another arrangement will be required such as transfer to a nursing home or hospice facility.

Plan for unexpected expenses to arise from a variety of sources.

When caregivers begin feeling frustrated, anxious, or depressed note these as warning signs that the situation must be promptly addressed and responsibilities reduced.

No one individual should assume the caregiver role without some form of backup, even for a short period of time.

46

SENIOR SCENE CAREGIVER MATCH

Selecting the best person to provid most important decisions a family c care for a vulnerable family membe caregiving process can help minimi Before inviting a caregiver into your home -- and your life -- make sure you follow the right steps to find the best person for your specific needs.

The right caregiver should provide you with what you need, provide quality service and, equally important, offer you peace of mind.

Before You Start Your Search for a Caregiver Learn About In-Home Care Services Determine exactly what kind of care or assistance your senior needs. In-home care generally is categorized into “skilled care” (medical care by nurses and therapists) and “in-home support services” (non-medical care including housecleaning, dressing, and companionship).

Develop a Profile of Care Needs Assessing care needs can help you define your senior’s care needs and the kinds of help you need with caregiving. It will also help you determine in-home caregivers duties and skills needed, and to evaluate the job performance of in-home workers.

Write a Basic Job Description Use the profile of your senior’s needs and make a list of your needs from a caregiver. Clearly state your expectations and their duties and responsibilities.

Find Out About Legal, Financial, And Tax Issues In-home caregiving can be expensive. Review your insurance coverage and know your tax responsibilities.

SENIOR SCENE CAREGIVER MATCH

47

de care for a loved one with a disability or special needs is one of the can make. You are putting your trust in someone to provide quality er. Careful preparation, communication and ongoing monitoring of the ize problems.

Hire On Your Own Or Through An Agency Home care agencies usually charge more than private hires because the agency has a wide range of responsibilities for ensuring quality caregiving. Hiring someone privately may reduce your costs considerably, but it will take more time and effort to screen applicants, pay taxes and supervision. Also plan for vacations and other absences.

Relevant Experience Does the candidate have a background in the kind of care you are looking for? Have they cared for an individual similar to the person you are seeking care for? What are some examples of the types of activities the candidate has performed for previous clients? It may also be a good idea to ask if the candidate views caregiving as a career or a temporary job.

Screen and Interview Applicants A trusting and comfortable relationship between you, the senior, and the in-home worker can determine the success of in-home services. Ahead of time, write your interview questions and be prepared to discuss all aspects off the care you need.

Fingerprint Card Many states require in-home health care workers obtain a Fingerprint Clearance Card which is used to conduct a state and federal criminal records check. Make sure your candidate has a valid card and that they provide you with the original, laminated version. You should also verify the authenticity of the card by calling the law enforcement agency that issued the card (most have an employer call-in number for this purpose).

Sign an Agreement Complete an agreement clarifying conditions and terms of employment and setting guidelines for the caregiver to follow at all times. Both parties should have a signed copy of the agreement. Consider contacting an attorney to write your agreement.

Caregivers that Match Specific Needs on Multiple Dimensions of Compatibility References A good candidate will generally provide you with references from previous clients, but if not, ask for at least three. Contact these individuals and ask them about their experience with the candidate. Were they effective, caring, and responsive? Did they show up on time?

How did they handle unexpected situations or emergencies? How well did they handle non-care tasks that might be important to you (for example, laundry)?

Certification & Training Do they have certifications and formal documented training?. In addition to any legally required training (such as First Aid, CPR and Incident Reporting), see if they have specific training that may be relevant to your needs, including Medication Management, Body Mechanics, Habilitation, Client Intervention Training and Positive Behavior Support. Make sure any certification is current and valid by checking with the training agency that issued it.

Proximity Generally speaking, the closer the caregiver is to you geographically, the better. It reduces difficulties with scheduling that can occur due to long commutes plus they will be closer for any short notice care needs you may have. By living nearby they will be familiar with local stores, parks, hospitals, and other facilities that may be relevant to your needs.

48

SENIOR SCENE ALZHEIMER’S

Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, a general term for memory loss and other intellectual abilities serious enough to interfere with daily life. It accounts for 50 to 80 percent of dementia cases and causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior.

Symptoms usually develop slowly and get worse over time, becoming severe enough to interfere with daily tasks.

Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging, although the greatest known risk factor is increasing age and up to 5 percent of people with the disease have early onset Alzheimer’s, which often appears when someone is in their 40s or 50s.

Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease and the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. Those with Alzheimer’s live an average of eight years after their symptoms become noticeable to others, but survival can range from four to 20 years. Alzheimer’s has no current cure, although current treatments can temporarily slow the progression and improve quality of life for those with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers. Understanding the stages of the disease’s development can aid those diagnosed and their families in understanding what their loved one is experiencing. The Alzheimer’s Association is the trusted resource for reliable information, education, referral and support to millions of people affected by the disease.

Alzheimer’s symptoms vary. The stages below provide a general idea of how abilities change during the course of the disease.

Stage 1: No impairment Stage 2: Very mild decline Stage 3: Mild decline Stage 4: Moderate decline Stage 5: Moderately severe decline Stage 6: Severe decline Stage 7: Very severe decline

Not everyone will experience the same symptoms or progress at the same rate. This seven-stage framework is based on a system developed by Barry Reisberg, M.D., clinical director of the New York University School of Medicine’s Silberstein Aging and Dementia Research Center.

Stage 1: No impairment (normal function) The person does not experience any memory problems.

An interview with a medical professional does not show any evidence of symptoms of dementia.

Stage 2: Very mild cognitive decline (may be normal age-related changes or earliest signs of Alzheimer’s disease) The person may feel as if he or she is having memory lapses — forgetting familiar words or the location of everyday objects. But no symptoms of dementia can be detected during a medical examination or by friends, family or co-workers.

Stage 3: Mild cognitive decline (early-stage Alzheimer’s can be diagnosed in some, but not all, individuals with these symptoms) Friends, family or co-workers begin to notice difficulties. During a detailed medical interview, doctors may be able to detect problems in memory or concentration. Common stage 3 difficulties include: • Noticeable problems coming up with the right word or name • Trouble remembering names when introduced to new people • Having noticeably greater difficulty performing tasks in social or work settings Forgetting material that one has just read • Losing or misplacing a valuable object • Increasing trouble with planning or organizing

SENIOR SCENE ALZHEIMER’S Stage 4: Moderate cognitive decline (Mild or early-stage Alzheimer’s disease) At this point, a careful medical interview should be able to detect clear-cut symptoms in several areas: • Forgetfulness of recent events • Impaired ability to perform challenging mental arithmetic — for example, counting backward from 100 by 7s • Greater difficulty performing complex tasks, such as planning dinner for guests, paying bills or managing finances • Forgetfulness about one’s own personal history • Becoming moody or withdrawn, especially in socially or mentally challenging situations Stage 5: Moderately severe cognitive decline (Moderate or midstage Alzheimer’s disease) Gaps in memory and thinking are noticeable, and individuals begin to need help with day-to-day activities. At this stage, those with Alzheimer’s may: • Be unable to recall their own address or telephone number or the high school or college from which they graduated • Become confused about where they are or what day it is • Have trouble with less challenging mental arithmetic; such as counting backward from 40 by subtracting 4s or from 20 by 2s • Need help choosing proper clothing for the season or the occasion • Still remember significant details about themselves and their family • Still require no assistance with eating or using the toilet Stage 6: Severe cognitive decline (Moderately severe or midstage Alzheimer’s disease) Memory continues to worsen, personality changes may take place and individuals need extensive help with daily activities. At this stage, individuals may: • Lose awareness of recent experiences as well as of their surroundings • Remember their own name but have difficulty with their personal history

49

Remember: It is difficult to place a person with Alzheimer’s in a specific stage as stages may overlap.

• Distinguish familiar and unfamiliar faces but have trouble remembering the name of a spouse or caregiver • Need help dressing properly and may, without supervision, make mistakes such as putting pajamas over daytime clothes or shoes on the wrong feet • Experience major changes in sleep patterns — sleeping during the day and becoming restless at night • Need help handling details of toileting (for example, flushing the toilet, wiping or disposing of tissue properly) • Have increasingly frequent trouble controlling their bladder or bowels • Experience major personality and behavioral changes, including suspiciousness and delusions (such as believing that their caregiver is an impostor) or compulsive, repetitive behavior like hand-wringing or tissue shredding • Tend to wander or become lost Stage 7: Very severe cognitive decline (Severe or late-stage Alzheimer’s disease) In the final stage of this disease, individuals lose the ability to respond to their environment, to carry on a conversation and, eventually, to control movement.

They may still say words or phrases.

At this stage, individuals need help with much of their daily personal care, including eating or using the toilet.

They may also lose the ability to smile, to sit without support and to hold their heads up. Reflexes become abnormal. Muscles grow rigid. Swallowing impaired.

50

SENIOR SCENE SENIOR HEALTH EXERCISE

by Stephanie Rice

E

xercise is a key ingredient in a healthy lifestyle whether you are 20 or 70. Physical activity can improve strength, balance and brain function as well as prevent disease. Along with building a strong cardiovascular system, the benefits of exercise are significant at any age, and can be especially important to maintain senior health. Studies have shown that regular exercise for seniors is vital to senior health and to the prevention and treatment of many medical conditions including Alzheimer’s disease and Osteoporosis. Some seniors become less active as they grow older, but the importance of regular exercise to their health increases as they get older. Learning low impact exercises and strength training techniques can improve bone structure and brain function.

Senior Health, Exercise, and Alzheimer’s Disease Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, the onset may be slowed or even prevented through exercise. Cardiovascular activity may increase blood flow to areas of the brain that deal with memory, improving brain function. It’s recommended that you do some sort of cardiovascular activity three or more times a week to prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Some common cardio activities include: • Walking - 30 to 60 minutes 3 or more times a week.

• Running - 30 to 60 minutes 3 or more times a week.

• Bicycling - 30 to 60 minutes 3 or more times a week.

• Swimming - 30 to 60 minutes 3 or more times a week.

Senior Health, Exercise, and Osteoporosis Osteoporosis is common among seniors and is a major senior health care issue. As we age our bones naturally become weaker. The calcium needs at age 50 increase dramatically and many people don’t get enough calcium in their diet or vitamin supplements. Regular exercise can treat and even reduce the risk of Osteoporosis.

Impact and pressure put on the bones from exercise cause them to strengthen to support the extra weight, boosting bone mass. The following exercises can help treat and prevent Osteoporosis, improve senior health, and reduce the need for senior health care: Weight-Lifting - By lifting weights you’ll put more pressure and weight on your bones, leading to a gain in bone mass. Weight lifting also increases metabolism and blood flow to the brain for enhanced brain function. Do this activity two to three times a week for 30 minutes.

Cardio - Cardiovascular activity such as walking, running, and climbing stairs will force your bones to grow because of the impact and weight placed on them.

Walking outside is more helpful to maintain balance and mobility than walking on a treadmill or using exercise equipment emulating stairs. Seniors interested in lower impact cardio activities can ride a bicycle or elliptical machine. Cardio activities should be done four to six times a week for 30 to 60 minutes.

Stretch - Stretching not only improves your flexibility, but provides a solid foundation for muscle growth.

You’ll see muscle gains faster and easier when stretching.

Training for Balance - Balance is vital as we get older and unfortunately only decreases with age. Training for balance is important for the prevention of falls. Yoga and tai chi are great activities for improving balance, flexibility, and muscle control.

Stephanie Rice is a freelance writer, active social worker and advocate of senior health care for over 15 years.

SENIOR SCENE MEDICARE / MEDIGAP

T

by Kevin Nystrom

here are two main categories into which the current senior health plan landscape can be divided: Medicare and Medigap. Every senior who is 65 or older is eligible for Medicare, but unfortunately it doesn’t cover every health-related service that seniors might need. Medicare Supplemental Insurance (also called Medigap) exists to fill these Medicare coverage gaps. Below are some significant points you should keep in mind whenever you’re researching senior health plans.

Understand Medigap Plans

Medicare Has Four Parts

Part C (Medicare Advantage) plans are intended to fill health care coverage gaps remaining after the application of standard Medicare Part A and Part B benefits, purchasing both is unnecessary and actually wasteful.

Medicare Part A: Provided they paid enough Medicare taxes while working, seniors become eligible for free Medicare Part A coverage when they turn 65. You’re likely to be eligible to receive premium-free Medicare Part A coverage if you’re eligible to receive Social Security benefits. However, Part A only provides coverage for hospital services such as inpatient care in hospitals and skilled nursing facilities.

Medicare Part B: Doctor’s visits, outpatient care and other general medical services are covered by Medicare Part B, but it requires a standard premium of $96.04 per month. The monthly Part B premium is higher for seniors with above-average incomes.

Medicare Part C: Medicare Part C (also called

the Medicare Advantage Program) relates to more comprehensive insurance plans sold to seniors by private insurance companies. Part C’s benefits include coverage provided under Parts A and B, as well as dental, vision and other benefits. Part C often includes Part D coverage as well. Some Part C plans require the payment of a separate premium in addition to the premium required for Part B coverage.

Medicare Part D: The fourth and final part of

Medicare, Part D helps seniors pay for their prescription medications. Seniors with Medicare can enroll in Part D in one of two ways: by selecting a Part C plan that includes Part D coverage, or by selecting a separate Medicare-approved plan provided by a private insurer.

51

Like Medicare Part C, Medicare Supplemental Insurance plans (Medigap) are sold by private insurance companies and provide more thorough coverage than Medicare Parts A and B. Although premiums for Medigap plans are typically higher than premiums for Part C Medicare Advantage plans, the applicable deductibles and copayments under Medigap plans are frequently lower.

Important Tip: Because both Medigap and Medicare

Different Medigap plans, like Medicare’s four parts, are each designated by alphabetical letters. Ten different Medigap plans exist: A through D, F, G, and K through N. It’s very simple to compare Medigap plans sold by different insurers because the benefits of all Medigap plans are standardized: all plans designated by the same letter provide the same coverage and benefits. Often, the only difference between the Medigap plans offered by different insurers is their cost.

Medigap plans have different ratings that determine how the costs of premiums will go up over time. There are three ratings: (1) Issue-Age-Rated, where premiums are established based on your age when you purchase; (2) Community-Rated, where everyone living within the defined community pays the same premiums; and (3) Attained-Age-Rated, where premiums increase as you get older. This last rating is the only type of Medigap plan that provides for premium increases as you age. It is therefore recommended that you select an Issue-AgeRated or Community-Rated plan if you’re looking for a senior health plan involving Medigap coverage.

After you’ve digested the above information, you’ll be ready to ask for some senior health plan quotes in your local area.

Kevin Nystrom writes for Medicoverage.com and other outlets. He aims to help folks understand their senior healthcare options..

52

SENIOR SCENE DIRECTORY

AARP 866-554-5377 Adult Protective Services 214-951-7902 Alzheimer’s Association 214-827-0062 American Cancer Society 214-819-1200 American Heart Association 214-373-6300 Area Agency on Aging (Dallas) 214-379-4636 Area Agency on Aging (North Central Texas)

800-272-3921

Arthritis Foundation 214-826-4361 Better Business Bureau 214-220-2000 Collin County Committee on Aging, Inc.

972-562-6996

Contact Crisis Line 972-233-2233 Dallas Area Parkinson Society 972-620-7600 Dallas County Older Adult Services

214-819-1860

Dallas Lighthouse for the Blind 214-821-2375 Jewish Family Service 972-437-9950 Legal Hotline for Older Texans 800-622-2520 Meals on Wheels Dallas 214-689-2639 Medicaid 214-767-6495 Medicare 800-MEDICARE (633-42273) Retired State Employees Association 512-451-0087 Senior Adult Services 972-242-4464 Senior Employment Program 214-823-5700 The Senior Source 214-823-5700 Social Security Administration 214-346-2381 Texas Department of Aging & Disability Services

800-458-9858

Veteran’s Administration Medical Center 214-742-8387

Senior Activity Centers llen

Balch Springs

451 St. Mary Drive

214-509-4820

2919 Balch Springs Rd.

972-286-9317

Blue Ridge

200 W. Tilton

972-752-5686

Carrollton

1720 Keller Springs Rd.

972-466-4850

Celina

144 Ohio

972-382-4885

The Colony Coppell

5151 N. Colony Blvd.

345 W Bethel Rd

972-624-2246 972-462-5136

4009 Elm St.

214-826-8330

2525 Centerville Rd

214-327-4503

4500 Spring Ave

214-670-8203

East Dallas Brady

Golden Acres Juanita Craft

SENIOR SCENE DIRECTORY North Dallas Jewish Federation

7900 Northaven Rd.

214-739-2737

K. B. Polk United

6801 Roper St.

214-670-6308

Marcus Annex

2910 Modella Ave

214-670-6597

South Dallas lemeda Heights

2712 Lyola St

214-372-4620

1007 Hutchins Rd

214-941-7404

Cedar Crest Elmwood

1315 Berkley Ave

214-330-7144

Jefferson

1617 West Jefferson Blvd

214-943-3304

King New Beginning

114 West Hobson Ave

214-670-7595

Park South

2500 Romine Ave

214-421-5301

Southeast Dallas MLK

2901 Pennsylvania Ave

214-670-8169

Pleasant Grove

7224 Umphress Rd

214-398-5215

Sunshine

8341 Elam Rd

214-398-6619

Southwest Dallas Concord

6808 Pastor Bailey Dr

214-331-8522

West Dallas Marillac

2827 Lapsley St

214-638-4998

Wesley-Rankin

3100 Crossman Ave

214-742-6674

2828 Fish Trap Rd

214-670-6350

West Dallas

Mountain View

4849 W. Illinois Ave

214-860-8884

Denton

509 N. Bell Ave

940-349-8720

DeSoto

204 Lion St

972-230-5825

Duncanville Hopkins

206 James Collins Blvd

972-780-5073

14055 Dennis Ln

972-241-8636

Farmers Branch

Farmersville

209 Orange

972-782-8231

Flower Mound

1200 Gerault Rd

972-874-6275

6670 Moore St

972-292-6550

Frisco

Garland Carver

222 Carver St

972-205-3305

Garland

600 W Avenue A

972-205-2769

Grand Prairie The Summit

2975 Esplanade

972-237-4141

53

54

SENIOR SCENE DIRECTORY

Hutchins

500 West Hickman St

972-225-1032

Irving Heritage

200 S Jefferson St

972-721-2496

Lancaster

100 North Henry St

972-227-2650

Lewisville

1950-A South Valley Parkway

972-219-5050

McKinney

1400 S College St

972-547-7491

1116 Hillcrest St

972-285-6761

Mesquite Evans

Goodbar

3000 Concord

972-279-6881

Rutherford

900 Rutherford Dr

972-216-7791

401 W 16th St

972-941-7155

Plano

Richardson Richardson Hsu

2129 East Arapaho Rd

972-231-7969

Richardson

820 W Arapoho Rd

972-744-7800

Rockwall

108 E Washington St

972-771-7740

Royse City

107 Plum

972-635-2781

Sachse

3815 B Sachse Rd

972-495-6282

Seagoville

304 E. Farmers Rd

972-287-4113

Wylie

100 W Oak St

972-442-8119

WEBSITES Advocates for Residents of Nursing Homes, by State http://www.ltcombudsman.org/ombudsman Medicare.gov/ Nursing Home Compare http://www.medicare.gov/NHCompare Health In Aging http://www.healthinaging.org/aging-and-health-a-to-z Elder Care Locator by State http://www.eldercare.gov/Eldercare.NET/Public/Index.aspx Family Care Navigator by State http://caregiver.org/caregiver/jsp/fcn_content_node.jsp?nodeid=2083 USA.gov/Health for Seniors http://www.usa.gov/Topics/Seniors/Health.shtml

SENIOR SCENE DIRECTORY

WEBSITES continued Medicare.gov/ Home Health Compare http://www.medicare.gov/HomeHealthCompare/search.aspx National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization http://www.nhpco.org/custom/directory/main.cfm HHS.gov/Health and Human Services/Hospital Compare http://www.hospitalcompare.hhs.gov/hospital-search.aspx?AspxAutoDetectCookieSupport=1 Dept. of Health and Human Services/National Clearinghouse for Long Term Care Information http://www.longtermcare.gov/LTC/Main_Site/index.aspx National Respite Network and Resource Center/National Respite Locator http://archrespite.org/respitelocator Disability.gov/Find Benefits Nationally and by State https://www.disability.gov/benefits Benefits.gov/Government Benefits/Benefit Finder http://www.benefits.gov/benefits/benefit-finder#benefits&qc=cat_1 Medicaid.gov/Medicaid Eligibility by State http://www.medicaid.gov/Medicaid-CHIP-Program-Information/By-State/By-State.html Medicare.gov/Eligibility http://www.medicare.gov/caregivers/caregiver-topics-basics.html Medicare.gov/Help to Pay Medical Bills http://www.medicare.gov/Publications/Pubs/pdf/11445.pdf USA.gov/End of Life Issues http://www.usa.gov/Topics/Seniors/EndofLife.shtml USA.gov/Writing a Will http://www.usa.gov/topics/money/personal-finance/wills.shtml NIH.gov/National Institutes of Health/Long Distance Caregiving http://www.nia.nih.gov/health/publication/so-far-away-twenty-questions-and-answers-aboutlong-distance-caregiving National Caregivers Library/Checklists and Forms http://www.caregiverslibrary.org/caregivers-resources/grp-checklists-forms.aspx WomensHealth.gov/Caregiver Stress fact Sheet http://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/caregiver-stress.cfm

55