THE CHESHIRE HERALD, MAY 30, 2013
SENIOR Life
May 30, 2013
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, MAY 30, 2013
Two
Senior Life
Avoid Overspending As You Near retirement W
hen the nest is empty and the kids no longer need financial support, many men and women find themselves with some extra money in their budget. Fewer mouths to feed and no more college tuition bills can give parents a sense of financial freedom they may not have had since before starting their family. But that freedom can also lead to overspending, something that can put retirement in jeopardy if people are not careful. Though it’s understandable for men and women to splurge on a well-deserved getaway once the kids have finally
left the house, it’s important for adults to ensure that such splurging does not become routine. The following are a few ways men and women with some newfound disposable income can avoid overspending and putting themselves in financial hot water as they get closer to retirement.
Pay with cash whenever possible Swiping a debit card or credit card is certainly a convenient way to shop, but it can also be dangerous. Many people find it difficult to keep track of their spending when they use debit cards or credit cards to make their purchases.
Using cash to make purchases, especially daily purchases like a morning cup of coffee, reduces the likelihood of overspending. This can help you get a better idea of how much money you’re spending and if there are any steps you can take to curtail that spending. An effective way to use cash is to withdraw money from the bank once per week and use that as your weekly supply of money. If you find yourself frequently running out of money each week, then you’re likely spending more than you should. Keep a financial journal Men and women who must adapt to having newfound disposable income may find it is not
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much different from younger men and women learning to manage their money when they first start working. Some of those lessons, like saving more than you spend, might need to be relearned. One way to get a grip on your spending is to keep a financial journal to track your daily and monthly expenses as well as larger purchases like a new television.
“My kids feel I made the right choice. I know I did.” Joan ~ resident since 2008 At Pond Ridge, on the Masonicare at Ashlar Village campus in Wallingford, choice is a way of life. Complementing Masonicare’s continuum of healthcare services, our accredited assisted living community offers many living options for you or a loved one. General Assisted Living — Assistance with everyday tasks and personal care services tailored to your needs. Enhanced Living — Services and amenities to ease the chores of daily living so you can spend more time enjoying life to the fullest. Short-stay Residency — Not sure if assisted living is right for you or need some additional support for a short time? Come and stay for a while and experience the Pond Ridge lifestyle firsthand. The Hearth — Specialized memory care residence and Adult Day program for those with Alzheimer’s or other dementias. Contact us for more information or to schedule a tour. Our monthly fees are very inclusive with no up front community fee. ~ Apartments Now Available ~ Ask About our spring Move-in speciAl on select ApArtMents.
Write down the monthly expenses you know you have each month, such as a mortgage payment or a car note, and each and every purchase you make, including how much you spend on dining out each month. Do this for at least a couple of months. When you have logged several months’ activity, examine your journal to see if there are any expenses that can be trimmed to save money. Don’t go overboard rewarding yourself Once your last child has left the nest, the temptation to reward yourself with a luxury item or two might prove overwhelming. After all, raising a family and paying for college tuition has no doubt required substantial sacrifice on your part, so it’s well within reason that you want to reward yourself after all these years. Avoid overdoing it so your finances aren’t stretched too thinly. A vacation with your spouse is reasonable, but buying a villa overseas might be a little over the top. Luxuries can be nice, but they can also drain a budget. Your monthly expenses once the kids have moved out should be lower, so if you find your cost of living has increased now that your nest is empty, you might be forced to determine which of your expenses are luxuries and which are necessities. Take advantage of your “experience” Though accepting a “senior” discount might be a blow to your See PLAN, page 7
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, MAY 30, 2013
Three
Senior Life
A
Tips On How To Reduce Your Risk Of Alzheimer’s
lzheimer’s disease affects millions of people across the globe. In the United States alone, the Alzheimer’s Association estimates one in eight older men and women has the disease, which is the sixth-leading cause of death in the country. Few families have not been affected by Alzheimer’s disease, and many relatives of those with the disease fully understand the role family history can play. Research into the disease is ongoing, and it’s already yielded valuable information that may help reduce the prevalence of this devastating disease in the years to come. One byproduct of researchers’ efforts is the discovery that it may be possible to prevent or delay the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease through the implementation of a combination of healthy lifestyle choices. The following are a few healthy habits that may help men and women reduce their risk for Alzheimer’s. * Exercise regularly. A study conducted by Scottish researchers and published in the journal Neurology in 2012 touted exercise as the most effective way for adults to protect their brains from Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers examined roughly 700 70-yearold participants, all of whom were born in 1936, who were asked to report their levels of physical activity. Each participant then received an MRI at age 73. Those tests revealed that the participants who were more physically active showed less brain shrinkage and fewer white matter lesions, both of which are indicators of Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, the Alzheimer’s Research & Prevention Foundation reports that physical exercise reduces a person’s risk of developing Alzheimer’s by 50 percent and can even slow further deterioration in those who have already begun to
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develop the cognitive problems associated with Alzheimer’s. Researchers continue to study the relationship between physical activity and the development of Alzheimer’s diseases, but the evidence is mounting that regular exercise, regardless of a person’s age, is a great way to reduce risk for Alzheimer’s. * Eat healthy. What you put into your body may also reduce your risk for Alzheimer’s disease. The brain operates at its best when it is fueled with a healthy diet that includes fresh fruit and vegetables, healthy fats and lean protein. A heart-healthy diet is also brainhealthy, and researchers have found a potential link between heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Researcher Larry Sparks of the Sun Health Research Institute in Arizona and formerly of
Prunes Helping Revamp Its Own Image
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he public has certainly heard of prunes, but most people do not eat them on a regular basis. Prunes are traditionally the go-to food for a person who has digestive issues and needs help with constipation. Their reputation as a laxative has created somewhat of a negative image of prunes, but learning about the many health benefits of eating prunes could change the public perception of this fruit. Prunes, also known as dried plums, are among the healthiest foods a person can eat. Not only
Pilates Are For All Ages
do they have benefits for the gastrointestinal system, they are high in antioxidants, may help prevent premature aging and can promote cardiovascular health. The plum is related to the peach, cherry, nectarine, apricot, and almond. The Japanese plum is the most commonly eaten fresh plum, while the European plum is the one traditionally dried to turn into prunes. Plums have been eaten for centuries, and in Chinese mythology the plum tree is associated with great age and See PRUNES, page 8
the Kentucky medical examiner’s office studied brain tissues with a goal of finding early signs of Alzheimer’s disease. He discovered that those who had the telltale plaques of Alzheimer’s disease also had heart disease, suggesting heart disease may be a forerunner
tott pilates, an anatomically-based approach to the original exercise method developed by Joseph Pilates, safely delivers optimal strength, flexibility, and endurance without adding bulk. This stress-relieving method can be performed on a mat or using special Stott pilates equipment. Our mission is to offer you a quality of life. Most people brush off the problems they have. I, Nadine Phillips, owner of Cheshire Pilates Studio, have myself fractured my L5 multiple times. I do pilates because it is what helps me. It has taught me how to hold my posture properly and work all of my muscles equally. It has changed my life. I want to help others with what has helped me. All of our instructors have worked with clients who have back, knee, hip, and neck issues, fibromyalgia, osteoporosis, sciatica, vertebra fusions, and much more. We’ve even worked with clients who have broken or sprained a leg or ankle. Our instructors have taken the injury and special populations course especially to assist with older clientele. Stott pilates is featured at Cheshire Pilates Studio, located at 355 Highland Ave. in the Waverly Professional Park. We offer regular classes and private instruction. Our classes consist of core strength classes focusing on the detail of slow movements to create flexibility and improve posture, reformer classes to help tone the body and improve strength, and barre classes that work on the ballet barre to help with balance. We offer small classes to cater to each client and help with quality instruction. We also have licensed massage therapist Jody Clouse who aids in repairing muscles with orthopedic massages at the studio. It is a great compliment to the movement of pilates. Please check our website at www.cheshirepilates.com for more information, or call us at (203) 980-6591 to discuss your needs.
See ACTIVE, page 8
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he lifestyle you enjoy, and the peace of mind you deserve, are waiting for you at Mulberry Gardens. As a full service rental community, Mulberry Gardens offers: • 24 Hour Assisted Living and Memory Care Services • Studio and One Bedroom Apartments • Adult Day Program Seven Days a Week with Extended Evening Hours (Ask about Marian Heights!) • Activities, Cultural and Special Events • Good Life Fitness Program
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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, MAY 30, 2013
Senior Life
Older, Unmarried Couples Need To Think Finances
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oving in together is something typically associated with young couples, but more and more unmarried men and women over the age of 50 are choosing to cohabitate. According to an analysis of 2012 U.S. Census data conducted by the Performance Reference Bureau, roughly 10 percent of the 15.3 million opposite-sex unmarried cohabiting partners in the United States are between the ages of 55 and 64, while 15 percent are between the ages of 45 and 54.
Such figures indicate that living together as an unmarried couple is no longer exclusive to younger couples. The incentives for older, unmarried couples to cohabitate are similar to those for younger ones, but older couples should heed a few financial pointers before deciding to move in together. * Iron out the financial details ahead of time. Young couples who move in together often do so as a precursor to getting married. Such couples do not typically have much in the way of finan-
cial assets and, as a result, do not need to come to any formal agreement regarding their finances. Older couples, however, might be bringing a more substantial financial portfolio into the relationship, and these finances can complicate matters. Before moving in together, older couples should document their finances and how household expenses, including a mortgage if one exists, will be paid. Decisions regarding who will receive the tax breaks you might be eligible for when paying
a mortgage should also be considered. Documenting your financial situation can protect your assets should you break up. If these arrangements are not documented, unmarried couples who break up could find themselves in a contentious financial battle not unlike couples going through a divorce. * Maintain some financial independence. Older, unmarried men and women who choose to
cohabitate with their partners should still maintain some financial independence after moving in together. A joint checking or savings account might work down the road, but initially keep these accounts separate to avoid any disputes. Keep paying your own bills, including car payments and credit cards, at the onset as well. * Update certain documents See DISCUSS, page 8
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t is 2 a.m. and that cough and stuffy nose you have been battling is still keeping you up. You reach for the nighttime cold relief medicine only to find it expired a few months ago. If you take a dose to ease your symptoms, will you be putting yourself at risk? This situation is a relatively common occurrence. Many medicine cabinets are stocked with over-the-counter drugs as well as prescription medications that may be past their expiration dates. It is a good idea to routinely discard expired medicines, but if you happen to take a drug that has passed its expiration date, you will most See EXPIRATION, page 8
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, MAY 30, 2013
Five
Senior Life
You Can Still Get Slim And Trim After Turning 50
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osing some weight is a goal for many people regardless of age. While youngsters and young adults might be able to get away with a few extra pounds without suffering any significant consequences, older adults carrying some extra weight might be putting their overall health at considerable risk. Shedding weight after the age of 50 is not always easy. As a person ages, muscle mass tends to dwindle while body fat has a tendency to increase. Since fat burns fewer calories than muscle, weight gain as a person ages is bound to happen. But that doesn’t mean such weight gain is inevitable. In fact, men and women willing to make certain changes with regard to diet and exercise can shed pounds after 50 while preventing future weight gain. Diet
Men and women need fewer calories as they age. For example, men and women in their 40s may need as many as 200 calories more per day than they will when they reach their 50s. Counting calories might seem difficult, so men and women in their 50s and older who don’t think they can count calories can try to eat more low-calorie foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Consuming fewer calories often requires changing dietary habits, not only with regard to what you’re eating but also how you’re eating and even how you shop for food. Men and women used to dining out for lunch every day can start bringing their own lunches so they can gain greater control of their daily caloric intake. For those who find they’re frequently too exhausted to cook each night, they can prepare meals in advance to have healthy,
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ince BCI Financial and Constitution Mortgage combined forces almost three years ago, the company has seen strong growth in their mortgage business. One of the newer programs, “The Home Affordable Refinance Program” (HARP) has been helpful for those who are not behind on their mortgage payments, but have been unable to get traditional refinancing because the value of their home has declined. The federal program is designed to help you get a new, more affordable, more stable mortgage. In the Reverse Mortgage field, BCI is considered one of the foremost lenders in Connecticut. BCI offers an on-going series of informational seminars on this very subject. With a Reverse Mortgage: •You never have to move out of your home. •The title to the home always
stays in your name. •You can use the reverse to pay off your existing mortgage. •You can use the reverse to supplement your income. •They are insured by the Federal Housing Authority. Ken Penfield, Vice President at BCI, states “We know that the Reverse Mortgage changes peoples’ lives; however, it is not for everyone. But having good information will help you to know if a Reverse Mortgage is something that will help you, a friend, or family See BCI, page 7
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those who don’t. When coupled with a healthy, low-calorie diet, routine exercise can help men and women over 50 shed extra weight and keep the weight off once it’s gone. According to the CDC, older adults need at least two hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, every week and muscle-strengthening activities on two more days a week. These muscle-strengthening activities should work all the major muscle groups, includSee DON’T, page 7
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Exercise Exercise is another essential component to shedding pounds after 50, though men and women over 50 should always consult a physician before they begin a new exercise regimen. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention points out that regular exercise
can help older men and women prevent the onset of a host of ailments, including heart disease and diabetes. In addition, the CDC notes that regular physical activity as one ages helps muscles grow stronger, which increases the chances that an individual will be able to perform necessary daily activities without the assistance of others. Maintaining that independence into older adulthood is a goal for many men and women, and it’s a goal that’s far more realistic for men and women who exercise than it is for
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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, MAY 30, 2013
Six
Senior Life
Certain foods can help stave off cancer
How To
ancer is a potentially deadly disease that does not discriminate based on a person’s age, sex, ethnicity, or social status. Though anyone can get cancer, the National Institute on Aging notes that a person’s risk of getting cancer increases with age, even if that person has no family history of cancer. That reality highlights the importance of routine cancer screenings for men and women age 50 and older. While screenings are an important part of detecting and treating cancer, those over 50 should know they can take certain measures to possibly prevent the onset of cancer. For example, including certain foods as part of a regular diet may be effective at preventing cancer. Though there’s no way to guarantee a person won’t get cancer, the following foods may help lower the risk.
arthritis
combat
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* Blueberries: Blueberries may help prevent the onset of neck and mouth cancers. That’s because blueberries are rich in antioxidants, which the American Institute for Cancer Research notes can protect cells from being damaged. * Coffee: Though studies about the efficacy of coffee as a potentially preventive agent against cancer are ongoing, some studies have found that both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee can lower a person’s risk of developing colon, endometrial, and prostate cancer. * Whole grains: Whole grains can help men and women control their weight, as they are lower in calories than more traditional options. But studies have shown that whole grains, which can be found in whole-grain and whole-wheat pastas, can also reduce your risk of colon cancer. * Tomatoes: Tomatoes are loaded with lycopene, a carotenoid that numerous studies have indicated can reduce incidence of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and macular degeneration. These studies have based their findings on tomato consumption and not on the use of lycopene supplements, which may or may not be effective at preventing cancer. Cooked tomatoes can improve the body’s ability to absorb lycopene, further enhancing its ability to protect the body against cancer. * Fatty fish: Fatty fish, including salmon, that is full of omega-3 fatty acids has been linked to a host medical benefits, including lowering a person’s risk of cancer and heart disease.
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rthritis affects millions of people and can be a debilitating condition that impacts a person’s mobility and quality of life. The March 2010 issue of Arthritis Care & Research revealed that 18.7 percent of Americans and 16.9 percent of Canadians suffer from some type of arthritis. The word “arthritis” refers to more than 100 separate medical conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system and specifically the joints. According to the Arthritis Foundation, arthritisrelated joint problems cause pain, stiffness, inflammation, and damage to joint cartilage (the tough, smooth tissue that covers the ends of the bones, enabling them to glide against one another) and surrounding structures. Such damage can lead to joint weakness, instability and visible deformities that, depending on the location of joint involvement, can interfere with the most basic daily tasks, including walking, climbing stairs, using a computer keyboard, cutting food, or brushing teeth. Arthritis has no cure, though medications and physical therapy may be prescribed to help manage pain and improve mobility. There are many different medicines that may be used to treat arthritis. Here is a look at some of the most common. Topical pain relievers These drugs are applied to areas of concern and are absorbed by the body to relieve pain. They are generally effective for people who have mild symptoms in just a few areas of the body. Anti-inflammatory pain relievers These pain medicines may be over-the-counter or prescription drugs. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are common painkillers, as are nonsteroidal anti-inflammato-
ry drugs, or NSAIDS. Prescription doses may be helpful for more painful symptoms. Narcotic pain relievers For pain that is not controlled by NSAIDS and other methods, arthritis sufferers may be prescribed narcotic drugs that are more potent. While effective, narcotic drugs are addictive. They also may cause side effects, including constipation. Antidepressants Some doctors prescribe antidepressants to relieve pain. It is not fully understood how the medications affect the body’s interpretation of pain, but the role of these drugs on brain chemicals may be the connection. Drowsiness and dry mouth may occur from these drugs. Steroids For a variety of reasons, steroids are very useful at reducing inflammation in the body. But prolonged use—especially when taken orally—can result in a number of side effects, including weight gain and acne breakouts. Doctors try to avoid these problems by injecting the steroid into the affected joint or trying other medications in combination with steroids to keep the dose of steroids as low as possible. Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs) These drugs are often used for diseases of the autoimmune system, especially rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or ankylosing spondylitis. These medications work by interfering with or suppressing the immune system that attacks its own joints in people with these conditions. These medications can cause serious side effects because they essentially slow down the body’s ability to fend off illnesses. But for some people they are the best plan of attack for symptoms.
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Waverly Park Waverly Professional Professional Park 345Highland 355 Suite202 202 Highland Ave. Ave. Suite 203.980.6591 Cheshire, CT Cheshire, CT•203.980.6591 www.cheshirepilates.com
Pilates is good for back, knee and neck injury recovery Instructors have taken Injury and Special Populations courses to help older clients.
THE CHESHIRE HERALD, MAY 30, 2013
Seven
Senior Life
Vitamins And Supplements Can Help Sleeplessness
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illions of people around the world battle insomnia. Sleeplessness may be a byproduct of different conditions, and treatment may depend on the underlying cause of the insomnia. Many people find using all-natural supplement therapy is enough to ward off sleeplessness. Insomnia is more prevalent among elderly individuals and women. Elderly people are more likely than younger ones to have medical conditions that may cause pain at night or to take medication that can interfere with a good night’s rest. Some research suggests that men lose about 80 percent of their deep sleep between the ages of 16 and 50. For women, hormonal events often trigger sleeplessness. These can include menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. Individuals who are over the age of 50 may be more prone to anxiety, grief, and depression, which can cause sleeplessness. Although there are many different medications, be it prescription medications or over-the-counter drugs, to alleviate symptoms of sleeplessness, some people prefer to not take these medications due to the risk of dependency or the side effects associated with them. Hypnotics, which include the brand name Ambien, have been linked to morning drowsiness and even temporary amnesia, where individuals walk around, drive or even cook while under the medication and are unaware of what they are doing. Those who are looking for more natural approaches can use
the following vitamins and minerals in conjunction with good sleep hygiene. * Calcium and magnesium combination: Calcium and magnesium have been shown to relax the central nervous system, helping the body drift into sleep. According to Dr. William Sears, calcium helps the brain use the
Don’t Gain As You Age continued from page 5
ing the legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and arms. Muscle-strengthening activities include lifting weights, working out with resistance bands, exercise such as push-ups and sit-ups that use body weight for resistance, and yoga. Even gardening that involves digging and shovel-
ing can be considered a musclestrengthening activity. Weight gain is often an expected side effect of aging. But men and women don’t have to gain weight as they get older. Some simple dietary changes and a commitment to routine exercise is all it takes to shed weight after 50 and keep that weight off.
BCI Will Help You Decide continued from page 5
member plan for the future. BCI/Constitution feels that their company is the right choice for Cheshire, because they know the community and will work to always get the consumer the best possible mortgage for their needs. When you go to a bank, you ONLY get their products. When you go to BCI/Constitution, the qualified staff will help you pick
the right mortgage for your needs from many different sources. That’s especially important when 81 percent of seniors would like to remain in their homes for as long as possible. Other products the company offers are VA, FHA, CHFA, and Conventional Mortgages and Mortgage Refinancing. Call BCI today at (203) 4399400, ext. 427, to get the facts.
Take Advantage Of The Discounts continued from page one
pride, it also can be a boon to your bottom line. Many establishments, including gyms, restaurants and movie theaters, offer discounts to men and women age 55 and older. This can help you save a substantial amount of money over time, and no one has to know you’ve started cashing in on your experience.
amino acid tryptophan to manufacture the sleep-inducing substance melatonin. It is important to note that a balanced ratio of calcium to magnesium helps calcium work properly. It is recom-
mended to take 500 mg of calcium and 250 mg of magnesium once per day, later in the evening. This can be done after dinner or a few hours before going to bed for best results. * Vitamin B6: Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is a watersoluble vitamin required for the synthesis of the neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine. It also helps with myelin formation. Those who are deficient in B6 find the peripheral nerves, skin, mucous membranes, and the central nervous system can be affected. Taking 50 mg of vitamin B6 daily can help in the production of serotonin and promote sleep. It is believed to work well for people who struggle to stay asleep through the night. * Vitamin B12 and vitamin B5 combination: Taking 25 milligrams of B12, especially when supplemented with vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), can be a successful sleeplessness remedy. Vitamin B12 deficiency is quite common and is a factor for many patients who suffer from insomnia, especially seniors. Vitamin B5 may also relieve stress. * 5-HTP: Serotonin is a key neurotransmitter involved in sleep and mood, and 5-HTP, or 5-hydroxytroptophan, is a precursor to serotonin. In several double-blind clinical studies, 5-HTP decreased the time required to get to sleep and to decrease the number of awakenings, accord-
ing to HolisticOnline. It is recommended to take 100 to 300 mg, around 45 minutes before retiring for bed. * Melatonin: Although melatonin is the go-to supplement for sleeplessness because of its direct relationship with sleep onset and circadian rhythm in the body, some research indicates that melatonin supplementation may only be effective for those who are deficient in this hormone. However, it may be effective for the elderly person who naturally produces less melatonin as he or she ages. A report titled, “Melatonin in elderly patients with insomnia: A systematic review,” found there is sufficient evidence that low doses of melatonin improve initial sleep quality in selected elderly insomniacs. Melatonin doses ranged from 0.5 mg to 6 mg, and most participants took a single dose 30 to 120 minutes before bedtime. However, larger, randomized controlled trials with less strict inclusion criteria are necessary to yield evidence of effectiveness in geriatric patients who suffer from insomnia before widespread use can be advocated. Sleeplessness is something that can cause anything from mere annoyance to a long-term health problem. Older adults who are more prone to insomnia can consider a number of natural remedies to help get a better night’s rest.
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THE CHESHIRE HERALD, MAY 30, 2013
Eight
Senior Life
Prunes Considered A Nutritional Powerhouse continued from page 3
wisdom. Plums are one of the most widely cultivated fruits. Prunes are usually made by dehydrating the fruit quickly with the use of natural gas heat in dehydrating tunnels. Essentially, heating elements and fans are used to force hot air through plum-filled tunnels. At this point prunes can be stored or processed further for packaging. Some prunes are processed with potassium sorbate, which is a preservative that improves the shelf life of packaged prunes. Prunes also are generally washed and steamed to return some of the moisture to the fruit. Other prunes are hot-packed so they are processed without any preservatives. What makes prunes (and plums) nutritional powerhouses is that they are very high in antioxidants, substances that help fight free radicals in the body that contribute to illness. According to researchers from Tufts University in Boston, prunes rank No. 1 in terms of antioxidant capacity. It was found that prunes had more than twice the antioxidant capacity of other superfoods, like blueberries and raisins. Dried plums also rank above fresh plums in having a greater capacity of antioxidant power. Prunes contain high levels of hydrocinnamic acids (phenol compounds), which give them their antioxidant boost. Prunes are very high in dietary fiber, containing between six to seven grams. As many know, dietary fiber is the part of plant foods that the stomach and intestinal enzymes cannot absorb into the bloodstream. Fiber will re-
main in the colon and absorb water, which helps soften the stool before it is passed. Prunes also contain sorbitol, which is a mild colon stimulant. This will help speed up the passage of stool and reduce the risk of constipation and hemorrhoids, and may reduce risk of colorectal cancer. Individuals may not be aware that prunes also contain high
amounts of polyphenols, which are known to restore bone mass and structure, according to Heal With Food. Therefore, dried plums are part of osteoporosis prevention treatment for postmenopausal women. Various studies have indicated prunes may have beneficial effects on bone mineral density, bone formation activity and the produc-
tion of boron, which is thought to play a role in the prevention of osteoporosis. Prunes also may help prevent certain types of cancers. According to the American Cancer Society, foods high in fiber and vitamin A may offer some protection against cancers of the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts as well as cancers induced by chemicals.
The phytonutrients in plums also can inhibit in-vitro breast cancer growth without adversely affecting normal cell growth. It is well known that eating prunes and drinking prune juice can help keep a person “regular,” but the nutritional benefits of dried plums extends beyond their value treating gastrointestinal conditions.
Discuss Any Changes With Your Children continued from page 4
and policies. Upon your death, a partner with whom you cohabitate does not have the same legal rights of inheritance as would a spouse. As a result, it’s important for unmarried individuals who cohabitate with their partners to update their wills, especially if they have been cohabitating for an extended period of time and want their partner to be taken care of in case of their death. In addition to updating information regarding beneficiaries, older men and women might want to update certain information regarding their health, like who should take legal responsibility for medical decisions should one partner become incapacitated. In addition to updating your will, update any existing life insurance policies and retirement benefits to include your partner if you so desire. * Discuss any changes with your family, especially any children. When you make changes to your will, those changes will affect your beneficiaries. Upon making these changes, discuss them with your exist-
ing beneficiaries so your partner does not have to deal with relatives whose feelings might be hurt upon your death. This might not be an easy discussion, but you
will want your partner to have your family as a support system upon your death. Older, unmarried couples are choosing to cohabitate more and
more. While the incentives to doing so are numerous, there are some precautionary measures couples should take before moving in together.
Active Life Key To Preventing Alzheimer’s continued from page 3
of brain diseases like Alzheimer’s. The Alzheimer’s Association feels this link between the two will only grow stronger in the years to come, suggesting that a heart-healthy diet that reduces a person’s risk of heart disease may also reduce the risk for Alzheimer’s down the road. More information on a heart-healthy diet is available at www.heart.org. * Stimulate yourself mentally. Mental stimulation can help the brain stay sharp, and men and women who find ways to stay mentally stimulated can reduce their risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Embrace activities that require communication and interaction with others, and find time for additional tasks that can stimulate your brain. These may include studying a foreign language, reading, trying your hand
at mentally stimulating puzzles such as crosswords or Sudoku, and other activities that emphasize organization. Such activities are essentially workouts for your brain that can help it stay sharp as you age. * Remain socially active. Staying socially active into older adulthood is important for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is that research has indicated the brain functions better when men and women are not isolated from others. Memory and cognition are stronger when people remain socially active and engaged in their society, so retirees should look for ways to revive their social lives as a means to protecting their brains from the onset of Alzheimer’s or dementia. Alzheimer’s disease remains an enigma in many ways. But ongoing research continues to show
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that men and women can take measures to actively prevent or delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease and improve their quality of life as a result.
Expiration Date Might Be Marketing Ploy continued from page 4
likely suffer no ill effects. According to the Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide, the expiration date on a medicine is not the dates when a drug becomes hazardous. Rather, it marks the period of time after which a drug company can no longer guarantee the efficacy of the medication. Since 1979, drug manufacturers selling medications in the United States have been required by the Food and Drug Administration to stamp an expiration date on their products. This is the date until which the manufacturer can still guarantee full potency of the drug. Expiration dates also may be a marketing ploy. Francis Flaherty, a retired FDA pharmacist, has said drug manufacturers put expiration dates on products for marketing purposes rather than scientific reasons. It doesn’t make financial sense to a company to have products on the shelves for years. Therefore, most drug manufacturers will not do long-term testing on products to confirm if they will be effective 10 to 15 years after manufacture. The U.S. military has conducted their own studies with the help of the FDA. FDA researchers tested more than 100 over-the-counter and prescription drugs. Around 90 percent were proven to still be effective long past the expiration date -- some for more than 10 years. Drugs that are stored in cool, dark places have a better chance of lasting because the fillers used in the product will not separate or start to break down as they might in a warm, humid environment.