Living 50 Plus

TUESDAY, APRIL 20, 2021

How to Combat Social Isolation PAGE 7 Emporia Rec offers wide variety of activities for seniors PAGE 2

College after retirem ent PAGE 4

A bingo player marks her cards at the American Legion. PHOTO BY TIM MOHN/GAZETTE

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EMPORIA REC OFFERS WIDE VARIETY OF ACTIVITIES FOR SENIORS

By Zach DeLoach zach@emporia.com

No one outgrows the need for physical activity. For those over the age of 50, the specific type of exercise may be different than it was 30 years ago, but the need to keep up one’s physical health never goes away.

Aaron Hammond, Wellness Supervisor at the Emporia Recreation Center, described the kinds of activities that seniors and seniors-to-be should prioritize.

“Recently, I read something that said the number one aspect to a long and healthy life is healthy joints, so for seniors to remain active is extremely important just to keep those joints lubricated and moving properly,” he said. “We do offer a number of things not only here in the fitness center but there’s a lot of aquatics classes and things going on in there. And then our classes upstairs as well.

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People over the age of 55 can get an annual membership to the Emporia Rec for just $173 per year, which is the best price available. This allows them access to everything the center has to offer, including both organized classes and independent fitness activities.

“The senior membership is a steal, it is a steal,” said Shalla Bennett, the Marketing Administrator for the Emporia Rec. “Our senior membership is the price you can’t beat, especially for all the amenities that we have.”

While $173 is “a steal”, it might still be a bit costly for some. Bennett said that certain people can get assistance with paying for an annual membership through their insurance.

“We have wellness programs, so a lot of times through your insurance you can get a membership with us paid for,” she said.

“You’ve got to check with your insurance program, but it’s generally for older folks.

A lot of times it’s through AARP or something like that. It’s a program that just helps them cover the cost of their fitness and they can come in and do all different things with

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that.”

But one doesn’t need an annual membership in order to utilize the rec center. Many of the programs available have a reasonable per-day drop-in fee so that those who want to try things out before or even without ever locking in for a certain period of time can have the opportunity to do so.

One activity that is booming in popularity in Emporia and across the country is pickleball. The Emporia Rec currently has the only publicly available pickleball courts in Lyon County, as it reserves its indoor gym for the paddlesport Monday-Friday from 11 am-2 p.m.

“That’s a very popular sport, especially the great thing about here is that you’re inside, so [you can play] whatever the weather,” Bennett said. “If it’s really nice outside, a lot of times they’ll play at Hammond Park but usually we have at least a couple of courts here that are full of pickleballers.”

Those who are not members of the rec center can try pickleball by paying the $2 daily drop-in fee, but will need to bring their own paddle.

While typically there are plenty of people playing at any giving time, Bennett said that they make sure to integrate new people as well.

“Those folks are really good about trading out if they have people that are waiting so they’ll trade up partners,” she said.

Bennett attributed the popularity of pickleball to its accessibility to people of all ages and athletic abilities.

“It’s a sport that keeps you active but it doesn’t require you to hit the ball hard,” she said. “It’s activity, it’s movement, but it’s not

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hard to execute.

Similar to pickleball, table tennis -- otherwise known as ping-pong — is another activity that tends to draw a large crowd.

“It’s popular, it’s inexpensive and it’s something to do,” Bennett said. “We’ve got a group of regulars that come play every week so that’s kind of fun.”

Table tennis is available Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9-11 a.m. and

the cost for non-members $1 is per day.

The Wellness Center offers a variety of machines -- from treadmills to weights to stationery bikes -- that people can use, many of which are low-impact.

“We’ve set this up to be really conducive to people that are trying to stay active and Please see ERC, Page 3

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ERC From PAGE 2 be easy on their joints,” Bennett said.

The Emporia Rec offers the only indoor pool for public aquatic fitness and is a popular destination for people over 50 who are looking for quality exercise.

“Fitness in the water is really good for your joints, it’s easier on your joints, that kind of thing,” Bennett said. “We do have a lot of older folks that do like to do that.”

Aquatic fitness is particularly beneficial for those with arthritis, and the Emporia Rec has a class specifically tailored for that population. It is held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 8 a.m. and Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8:15 a.m. The daily drop-in fee for non-members is $3.

The Silver Dolphins program is held every weekday from 10-11 a.m. and is a combination social hour and light aquatic aerobics class. Non-members can pay $3 to attend.

For people who are less enthusiastic about getting in the pool, the Fit Forever

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and yoga classes might be a better option.

Fit Forever classes are held from 9-9:45 a.m. every weekday and include activities intended “to improve balance, flexibility, joint stability, coordination, muscular strength and support,” according to the Emporia Rec activities catalog. The daily drop-in fee for non-members is $3.

“They might do stuff in a chair, they do things that are adaptable for anybody that might have limitations,” Bennett said.

Yoga classes are popular with people of all ages and are particularly valuable for the over-50 variety because they target “flexibility, range of motion, balance and posture.” At the Emporia Rec, they’re held on Wednesdays and Fridays from 10-11 a.m. and can be tried by non-members for $3.

Many other activities are available as well and can be accessed by going to the Emporia Rec website (emporiarec.org), giving the office a call at 620-340-6300 or stopping by to pick up an activities catalog.

“The great thing about the rec center is that we’ve got those pieces and parts that people are looking for, especially when they’re trying to be easier on their joints,” Bennett said.

ENJOY SENIOR DISCOUNTS ON RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES Despite the efforts of Juan Ponce de Leon, there is no magical Fountain of Youth.

Getting older is inevitable and it is important to see the silver lining of aging.

Among the various perks that come with age, including increased knowledge and experience, are a whole host of discounts for the aging population. Men and women who have reached a certain age are entitled to key discounts if they know where to look.

The ages at which discounts are available vary. Auto insurance companies may provide a senior discount to drivers who are over 50. Certain restaurants offer these discounts for those over the age of 55. Retailers may begin offering discounts to customers who are over the age of 60. Many discounts can be used for recreational activities.

• Dining out: Why pay full price for a meal if you don’t have to? A meal out with friends and loved ones becomes a bit more affordable thanks to the senior discounts available through many different restaurants, whether it’s chains or independently owned eateries.

• Hotels: Seniors booking their stays through select hotel chains may be eligible to reduce their costs by 10 percent or more. When making the reservation, check to see if you qualify for an agerelated discount. Some may be affiliated with memberships in organizations like AARP.

• Theme parks: Before buying entry tickets or season passes, check with the membership office regarding senior discounts. Certain items also may be discounted throughout the parks.

• Movies: Movie theaters may offer special viewing days or times that are discounted.

• Flights/cruises: Discounted senior fares are available on select flights for Delta Airlines and American Airlines. British Airways offers up to $200 off flights and packages when booked online through British Airways’ AARP page. Seniors can enjoy discounts on select cruises through Carnival. Rental car companies also offer discounts for senior customers.

• Clothing: Looking your best for a night out may mean shopping for new clothing. Kohl’s offers a 15 percent discount for customers ages 55 and over every Wednesday and Ross offers 10 percent off on Tuesdays when signing up for the Every Tuesday Club.

• Gym memberships: Individuals who are eligible for Medicare also may be entitled to a free SilverSneakers membership, which provides access to more than 13,000 participating fitness centers • Park admission: Seniors age 62 and older can purchase a Senior Pass for $10 that’s good for more than 2,000 federal recreational sites and national parks in the United States. The pass is good for a lifetime.

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HOW TO BUILD FRIENDSHIPS IN YOUR GOLDEN YEARS ways to meet new people online by joinMaking friends as a child or even as a ing social media groups that cater to your parent to school-aged children is relatively interests. In person meetings in particueasy. Classrooms and school functions falar cities or regions of the country also cilitate the building of friendships. Even can make for great ways to make new as one gets older and enters the workforce, friends. Exercise caution when meeting it’s not uncommon for people to become people in person after contacting them friends with their coworkers. online. Bring another person along, As people near retirement age, their whether it’s a spouse or an adult child, to situations may have changed considerably. ensure that you are safe.

Children have moved out, careers are coming to an end and friendships may be hard • Volunteer your time. One way to meet new people is to get involved with causes to maintain due to people relocating or travor activities you love. This serves the eling. Older adults may aspire to make new double benefit of getting you outside and friends, but they may not know how. active and puts you in touch with people According to Irene S Levine, Ph.D., The who share your passions and interests.

Friendship Doctor and contributor to Psychology Today, it is not unique for seniors to • Attend alumni events. If you have an interest getting in touch with someone want to make new friends. Age can be a barfrom your past and reconnecting, make rier because there are stereotypes that pithe time to attend school reunions and geonhole people of certain ages. But Levine other alumni activities. It can be fun to notes that state of mind and physical abilreconnect with friends from high school ity is not directly tied to chronological age. or college.

Making friends is possible at any age. These • Join a gym. The local gym isn’t just a guidelines can help along the way. great place to get physically fit. Group • Explore online connections. A 2016 study exercise classes also can be ideal places published in the Journal of Gerontology to meet other people who enjoy working found seniors (even those in their 80s) out. Strike up a conversation with anothwho stay connected with friends and er class participant you see on a regular family using social media report feeling basis. Once you develop a rapport, schedless lonely and better overall. Connected ule lunch dates so your friendship grows seniors also demonstrated higher execuoutside of the gym. tive reasoning skills. There are plenty of

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COLLEGE AFTER RETIREMENT

By Ryann Brooks

brooks@emporia.com

Going back to college after retirement may seem like a pipedream to some, but more and more seniors are finding themselves gaining success by investing in their education.

According to Kiplinger.com, the changes in how education is delivered has changed dramatically in the past few decades.

Combined with the rising tuition costs, investing the time and money in a degree should be weighed carefully.

In some cases, certificate programs, like those offered at Flint Hills Technical College, may be just the right fit for a retiree looking to get back into the workforce or someone looking to make a career change do just that.

“I think one of the biggest benefits is the hands-on aspect,” said FHTC Marketing Director Kat Dorcas. “Learning while do-

ing is very advantageous, especially when learning a new skill.”

Dorcas said FHTC’s low student-toinstructor ratio — an average of 14:1 — makes it easy for students to ask questions and receive feedback from their instructors during class.

And programs are relatively short, too.

“The short term certifications and being able to receive a technical certificate in one year or an associate’s degree typically in two years can be very attractive for those that are wanting to get started quickly in their careers or are changing careers,” she said. “Certified Nurse Aide, Certified Medication Aide and Advanced Emergency Medical Technician are good examples of programs that can build skills and knowledge that can help advance careers. FHTC also accepts veterans educaPlease see College, Page 5

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COLLEGE From PAGE 4 tion benefits which can be a big help to those retiring from the military.”

You can learn more about FHTC at www.FHTC.edu or by calling 620-3434600.

At Emporia State University, nontraditional students also have opportunities to get back into the classroom, either to complete degrees they never finished or continue their education.

ESU Director of Media Relations Gwen Larson said the university’s Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies program was designed “specifically” for people who have completed a significant amount of college credit who have a desire to finish their degrees for job advancement, continued studies or even personal satisfaction.

“We help you put together your own degree,” Larson said. “You go into our course catalog, find classes that interest you for the new path that you want and, working with an advisor and the department to make sure you have everything you need, come out with a degree.”

Larson said the program is a good fit for people with busy schedules with a lot of on-

line class options and flexible scheduling.

“That can be a good one for somebody that maybe they’re not the traditional students that we see that come straight to college and just work towards that degree, but they’ve got other things going on in their lives that may make it difficult to devote full-time to college.”

The university also offers different paths to teaching degrees for those who already have a bachelors, but may have decided later on they would like to become a teacher.

Larson said the Restricted License Program is for “career-changers who are interested in earning their first teaching license in Kansas as a PK-12, middle/secondary teacher, school counselor, or library media specialist” after they’ve already completed a bachelor’s degree in another field.

A degree earned two or more years ago with a major in the subject desired to teach (or the equivalent content coursework in a different subject) is needed.

For seniors who want to get that learning experience without earning a degree,

they can also audit classes. Emporia State has an audit program for Kansas residents ages 60 and older, where they can audit courses at no cost — with permission of the instruction — provided space is available in the class.

“That’s actually been pretty successful

Page 5 with folks who are over 60 and some of the most popular classes to save audited include computing for seniors, they like to take art classes and history classes and they also like to take physical education and health classes,” Larson said.

The students pay only for their books and supplies. Students may audit courses if special arrangements are made with the Registrar and the instructor during the first ten days of the semester. Those interested in auditing classes can go online to www. emporia.edu for more information or call 620-341-5517.

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(Family Features) Aging may be inevitable, but with advancement in research and technology, there are plenty of ways you can slow, or even reverse, the hands of time to stay healthy and promote longevity.

Consider these ideas from Longevity Labs+, a company dedicated to cutting-edge aging research and the makers of spermidineLIFE, a first-of-its kind, clinically studied supplement containing natural spermidine, which renews cells and can reverse the signs of aging:

Protect Your Skin Not only does your skin protect vital internal organs, it’s an essential barrier to intruders like bacteria and other infection-causing microbes. The skin is also the body’s greatest tool in managing hydration levels and providing critical cues to your nervous system about things like temperature and pain.

With such a big role in your overall health and well-being, the skin often shows the first signs of aging. Wrinkles and age spots are often indicators of a person’s true age.

However, you can reduce the visible impacts of aging on the skin with daily care.

Regularly moisturizing helps keep skin supple, and diligent sunscreen application yeararound can protect your skin from damaging sun rays. Some compounds and nutrient plans can help nurture youthful skin.

It’s also important to closely monitor your skin for changes, especially changes to moles or other spots that may be signs of skin cancer, which is generally treatable when caught and managed early. In addition, collagen peptides and a spermidine-rich diet can be key in ensuring healthy skin into your later years.

Maintain Clean and Healthy Cells You may not realize it, but as each day passes, your body’s cells age, die and accumulate toxic matter, which disrupts cellular function and causes a myriad of age-related

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AGE WITH STYLE AND GRACE

diseases such as dementia and cardiovascular disease as well as decreases immune function. However, a compound naturally produced by the body and found in nature called spermidine can clean cells of toxic matter so they can operate with renewed youth and efficiency. Spermidine triggers a cellular renewal process called autophagy, which allows cells to shed layers of waste and regenerate instead of slowing down and dying off. As the body ages, natural levels of spermidine decline, cellular regeneration slows and signs of aging are accelerated.

Spermidine is a key to anti-aging and is believed to help reduce the onset of neurodegenerative and age-related diseases. You can boost spermidine levels by eating certain foods that are high in spermidine, like lentils, soybeans, mushrooms, aged cheese, pears, broccoli, peas and cauliflower.

However, few people eat enough spermidine-rich foods to maintain optimal levels in their later years. Taking a supplement like award-winning spermidineLIFE* can support cellular renewal and help cells stay young and healthy. The first and only clinically studied spermidine supplement in the world, it includes spermidine naturally extracted from European non-GMO wheat germ along with carefully selected vitamins, minerals and healthy fats.

PHOTO COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES

LONGEVITY BRE AKFAST BAKE 1 Tablespoon olive oil 1 pound uncured, organic bacon 1 pound sliced, organic white mushrooms 1 pound organic broccoli 1/2 cup water 2 cups grated aged cheddar cheese 14 organic eggs 1-2 teaspoons garlic salt fresh ground black pepper, to taste

Manage Physical Health As you grow older, your metabolism slows, making it easier to hold onto extra weight. Excess pounds are associated with numerous health risks, in addition to slowing you down overall. Maintain a more youthful body and mobility by consuming a well-rounded, nutritious, whole-food diet and committing to regular exercise, which can help not only banish extra calories but also keep your muscle tone strong, your balance steady and your posture straight.

Just as important as what you do to protect your health as you age is what you don’t do. That means limiting alcohol, quitting smoking and avoiding the temptation to indulge in high-fat and sugary foods.

Support Mind Matters Worry lines aren’t just wrinkles that come with age; they can be a sign of persistent angst. From stress to lack of sleep to slips in memory, there are plenty of reasons to focus on your mental health as you advance in years.

Getting enough rest can play a big role in your physical health as well as your mental wellness. Too little sleep prevents your body from reenergizing itself fully and can affect your cognition and mood. Worry and stress can also cause you to feel your years.

Information is key, and smart devices such as heart rate and sleep trackers can provide you with the necessary information to find what helps and what hurts healthy circadian rhythms and deep, regenerative sleep.

Growing forgetful as you age is also common to an extent, but memory problems can be exacerbated by stress, lack of sleep and other factors. You can also keep your mind sharp by playing games, doing puzzles, reading and maintaining an active and engaging social life with others. Even during this pandemic, phone and video calls can help engage your mental state through important social activity.

Find more ideas for navigating your later years with grace at spermidinelife.us.

Eat Away Your Age

In skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil.

While skillet is warming, chop bacon into small pieces. Cook bacon until crispy. Transfer bacon to plate covered with paper towel to absorb excess grease.

Drain most grease from skillet, reserving some to saute mushrooms.

Saute mushrooms until translucent. Cut broccoli into thick, bite-sized pieces; cover and microwave 4 minutes with water to soften.

Heat oven to 350 F. Crack eggs and whisk until egg whites and yolks blend together in one consistent color. Season with garlic salt and pepper, to taste.

In bottom of baking pan or cast-iron skillet, spread broccoli and mushrooms evenly.

Add crispy bacon bits and cheddar cheese.

Pour eggs into pan and carefully stir until ingredients are evenly mixed.

Bake 40-45 minutes, or until top of casserole starts to brown.

This tasty recipe features three of the top 10 spermidine-rich foods: broccoli, mush*These statements have not been evaluated rooms and aged cheese. It also keeps well, so by the Food and Drug Administration. These you can prepare it for a casual brunch then products are not intended to diagnose, treat, reheat for an easy breakfast the next day. cure or prevent any disease.

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HOW TO COMBAT SOCIAL ISOLATION

(Family Features) Even before COVID-19 limited social contact with friends, family and colleagues, many adults experienced loneliness and depression due to limited contact with others. Now, a year after the pandemic forced many people into even greater levels of isolation, the issue of social isolation is especially prevalent in Americans over the age of 50.

Despite the physical implications of a global pandemic, research shows the mental health stakes are high, too. A nationwide survey, commissioned by Barclays, found that half of Americans over the age of 50 said the isolation from their friends and family has been more challenging than concerns over health risks they may face.

Social isolation has provided plenty of time for Americans to reflect on their prior-

ities. The majority of Americans surveyed (90%) have re-evaluated their post age-50 goals and put spending more time with family at the top of their lists. In fact, the most common first thing 50-plus Americans will do once COVID-19 is over is to see and spend time with their families (41%).

“While restrictions are beginning to ease, many older adults are still isolated from friends and family, and that takes a toll on their mental well-being” said Lisa Marsh Ryerson, president of the AARP Foundation. “We must do all we can to help older adults, who have suffered greatly during COVID-19, strengthen the social connections that are so essential to their ability to lead longer, healthier lives.”

For example, AARP Foundation’s Connect2Affect platform equips older adults with the tools they need to stay physically and mentally healthy and connected to their communities. The AARP Essential Rewards Mastercard from Barclays is helping fund the foundation’s work to increase social connection with donations based on new accounts and eligible purchases, up to $1 million annually.

A little creativity and a commitment to filling time productively can help reduce the strain of being alone until it’s safer to resume social activities.

Use technology to connect with loved ones. Video chats and traditional phone calls can help you feel connected even when you can’t be together in person.

While a drop-in call can be fun, consider arranging regular visits with kids and

grandkids. If you schedule calls throughout the week, you’ll have something regular to look forward to and can benefit from a check-in that affirms everyone is healthy and safe.

Make time for physical activity. Staying closer to home may mean you’re not getting the exercise you once did, but it’s important for your health to stay active.

Regularly using your muscles helps keep your body strong, and even light physical activity a few times each week can help keep your cardiovascular system fit for better heart health. Regular exercise can also provide a range of positive mental health outcomes, including reduced stress, anxiety and depression, and improved memory.

Volunteer in your community or consider virtual volunteering. Helping others is a way to release feel-good endorphins for yourself. While your limited social cal-

endar may afford you some extra time, inquire with local nonprofits about how you can contribute to their causes. Especially as funding for charitable organizations has dropped, volunteers are still essential to most nonprofit organizations, whether the help comes in person or virtually. Even from a distance, you may be able to help with tasks like making calls to donors, assisting with mailings or planning fundraising campaigns.

Learn a new hobby or skill. Another way to fill your free time, and reap some positive energy, is to explore a new hobby or skill. The personal satisfaction of learning and focusing your mental energy on something that interests you can help offset the disappointment of being away from those you love.

Find more resources that support older adults at connect2affect.org.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE CLAIMING SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS

Hardworking adults spend years striving to achieve their professional goals. Along the way, planning for retirement is a way to ensure all that hard work pays off when the time comes to call it a career.

In the United States, men and women nearing retirement age may be thinking about when they should begin collecting their Social Security retirement benefits. Social Security is a social insurance program instituted by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt in 1935. The program consists of retirement, disability and survivor benefits, and workers in the United States contribute to Social Security each week.

The decision about when to claim Social Security retirement benefits is one all those who have contributed to the program must

stop working. This step can help you considerable, it’s vital for adults to coneventually make. In recognition of the diffiunderstand how much a reduced or infirm their full retirement age before they culty of that decision, the Consumer Financreased Social Security benefit will affect claim their benefits. cial Protection Bureau offers the following your bottom line in retirement. tips to people wondering when they should • Delay claiming if you can. The CFPB notes that you can expect to get an addi- • Continue working. Remaining in the begin collecting their Social Security benworkforce full-time or even part-time can tional 5 to 8 percent in monthly benefits efits. have a considerable impact on the size of for every year you wait to claim your So• Confirm your full retirement age. Full your Social Security benefit. The CFPB cial Security benefits after age 62, maxretirement age refers to the age at which notes that continuing to work for one or ing out at age 70. If you can afford to do people can begin collecting their full bentwo additional years can replace low- or so, wait to claim your full benefit until efits. Depending on the year you were no-income earnings from your earnings age 70, as doing so can translate to a benborn, you can begin collecting your full record, thereby increasing your benefit. efit that’s 32 percent higher than it would benefit at age 66 or 67. Claiming your have been had you claimed your benefit • Consider the long-term needs of your benefit before you reach full retirement spouse. Surviving spouses receive the at age 62. age will lead to a permanent decrease in higher of the two spouses’ benefits. So your monthly benefits. Conversely, claim- • Budget for retirement. Short- and longit makes sense for the higher earning term budgeting for retirement can help ing after you reach full retirement age spouse to wait to collect his or her benefit you assess how much money you will will lead to a permanent increase in your until he or she reaches full retirement age. need to cover your expenses when you monthly benefits. Since the stakes are so

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