Summer 2011
Stay Healthy This Summer When summer finally comes to the Pacific Northwest, most people alter their daily routine to include as much time outside as possible. Clear days and warmer temperatures invite outdoor activity – exercise, social events and travel among them. It’s good to make the most of summer, but as you do, keep in mind that moderation is best, and heed these tips from the experts at Evergreen’s Senior Health Specialists clinic to prevent illness or injury during this sunny season.
Horizons promotes a healthy outlook beyond age 55. www.evergreenhospital.org Evergreen Horizons is a service of Evergreen Senior Health Services. Editor: Rosemary Langford To receive this free, quarterly Horizons publication, leave a message at 425.899.1858 or email us at Horizons@evergreenhealthcare.org.
Sun Sunlight helps our bodies make vitamin D, which can be important for good health. But too much sunlight can be harmful, so use common sense in the sun, and wear protective clothing and sunscreen for any prolonged exposure. Ultraviolet radiation can contribute to retina damage and cataracts, so wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your eyes and the sensitive skin around them from the sun.
Heat People 65 and older are more prone to heat stress than younger people, and should take precautions against the dramatic rise in body temperature which signals heat exhaustion or heat stroke. When it’s hot outside, look for shade or an air-conditioned room; drink cool (not cold) nonalcoholic beverages;
rest; take a cool shower or bath; wear lightweight clothing; and avoid strenuous activity.
Falls Take precautions against falls. Wear sturdy shoes with a nonslip sole, and avoid walking on uneven ground. If you use a walker or a cane, have someone accompany you when you venture outdoors.
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Classes and Events July – September 2011 These classes for seniors are made possible through your levy support of Evergreen Hospital Medical Center (King County Public Hospital District No. 2). Classes are free unless a price is listed. Pre-registration is required for all classes.
Brittany Park 17143 133rd Ave. NE, Woodinville
How to Help a Loved One at Life’s End Learn about the impact of severe and chronic illness on patients and their families. Discussion will include hospice care and other community resources. July 5, 2-3 p.m. Call 425.402.7100 to register
Walk this Way Anyone can benefit from the easy and enjoyable activity of walking. Learn ways you can maximize these benefits, monitor your progress and prevent injury. July 19, 2-3 p.m. Call 425.402.7100 to register
Make Your Life Easier This class will cover techniques and equipment options to assist you with everyday tasks such as putting on shoes, opening medicine bottles and cans, moving about your home, and many other tips to make your life easier. Aug. 2, 2-3 p.m. Call 425.402.7100 to register
Tai Chi for Back Pain Easy-to-learn movements matched with breathing and visualizations help reduce and relieve back pain, strengthen and protect the spine, and improve health and well-being. Aug. 16, 2-3 p.m. Call 425.402.7100 to register
Prescription for Health A pharmacist will be discussing common drug interactions, how aging affects medication and how to effectively communicate with your pharmacist. Sept. 6, 2-3 p.m. Call 425.402.7100 to register
“Bone” Appetite Join a dietitian to explore foods and recipes that can help strengthen bones and slow the effects of osteoporosis. Sept. 20, 2-3 p.m. Call 425.402.7100 to register
Emerald Heights 10901 176th Circle NE, Redmond
What’s Great on Your Summer Plate? With summer upon us, there will be many parties, barbeques and other gatherings that will offer new challenges for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Learn healthy eating strategies and discover quick, fun and easy menu choices as well as tips for appropriate food safety for those warm summer days. July 28, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Call 425.556.8138 to register
Summer Travel: Keep Moving The dangers of long flights are making some think twice about air travel. Learn simple, seated exercises and other techniques to keep the blood moving and muscles relaxed while en route. Aug. 25, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Call 425.556.8138 to register
Plantar Fasciitis The most common cause of heel pain is plantar faciitis. Patients usually experience heel pain when taking the fist several steps in the morning, with the symptoms lessening as walking continues. Join us to learn what you can do to relieve discomfort. Sept. 22, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Call 425.556.8138 to register
Registration is required or classes may be cancelled.
Evergreen Hospital 12040 NE 128th St., Kirkland
AARP Driver Safety Program Interested in improving your driving skills and possibly receiving an insurance discount? This program, designed and conducted by AARP, provides eight hours of classroom instruction, covering the effects of aging and medication on driving, basic driving rules, license renewal and more. July 9, Aug. 13, Sept. 17 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Fee: $12 AARP members, $14 non-members Call 425.899.3000 to register
What’s Great on Your Summer Plate? With summer upon us, there will be many parties, barbeques and other gatherings that will offer new challenges for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Learn healthy eating strategies and discover quick, fun and easy menu choices as well as tips for appropriate food safety for those warm summer days. July 21, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Call 425.899.3000 to register
Considering Knee or Hip Replacement? Join our orthopedic surgeons for a free seminar to learn about Evergreen’s comprehensive joint program that guides you from pre-op preparation through surgery, recovery and physical therapy. July 28, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Call 425.899.3000 to register
Varicose Veins Varicose veins are uncomfortable and ache, but also increase the risk for circulatory disorders. Learn symptoms and treatment options. Aug. 4, 10-11 a.m. Call 425.899.3000 to register
The Healing Power of Humor Join humor specialist Donna Oiland for a fun-filled discussion on the healing power of humor and how to incorporate laughter into your everyday routine.
Would You Benefit from Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery? Join us to discuss the types of procedures available for the most common degenerative changes needing surgery (disk herniations, spinal stenosis, and spondylolisthesis). Sept. 1, 6:30-8:30pm. Call 425.899.3000 to register
The Arthritis & Diet Connection Discover the connection diet, nutrients, and food allergies may have with causing and relieving arthritis pain. The role of the immune system will also be reviewed. Sept. 15, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Call 425.899.3000 to register
Aug. 18, 12:30-1:30 p.m. Call 425.899.3000 to register
Bothell Senior Citizen Day: Celebrating Seniors Tuesday, Sept. 13 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bothell’s Old Main Street Live entertainment, giveaways, discounts for seniors at local businesses, shopping bingo, historic walking tours, and more surprises. Parking shuttle service available at Northshore Senior Center. Call 425.485.4353 or visit www.bothellchamber.com for more information.
Registration is required or classes may be cancelled.
Fairwinds Redmond 9988 Avondale Rd. NE, Redmond
Growing Older, Eating Better: Nutrition for Seniors Learn why good nutrition in later years can help lessen the effects of osteoporosis, high blood pressure, gastrointestinal problems, and other diseases and chronic conditions. July 8, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Call 425.558.4700 to register
Be Good To Your Feet We will discuss aspects of injury prevention for the foot and ankle, as well as overall good foot care. Aug. 12, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Call 425.558.4700 to register
Healthier Smile, Healthier You Learn about the importance of oral health to total health. Information on tooth decay, nutrition and gum disease and how they relate to heart disease, stroke and pneumonia will be covered. Toothbrushes or toothpaste will be available. Sept. 9, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Call 425.558.4700 to register
Kenmore Senior Center 6910 NE 170th St., Kenmore
Doc Talk Make sure you are prepared for your next physician’s visit by learning important questions to ask, what services you should request and how to ensure that you are informed of all medical options available to you. Take control of your health care by effectively communicating with your provider. July 18, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Call 425.489.0707 to register
Home Sweet Home There are senior housing options that suit everyone’s changing lifestyles. Learn what is available in our community, the different types of facilities and funding options. Aug. 15, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Call 425.489.0707 to register
Easing Back Pain Whether your back pain is occasional or chronic, you could benefit from this talk on common back problems and basic back care including exercise, body mechanics, medications and other treatments that may help ease that aching back.
Madison House 12215 N.E. 128th St., Kirkland
Easing Back Pain Whether your back pain is occasional or chronic, you could benefit from this talk on common back problems and basic back care including exercise, body mechanics, medications and other treatments that may help ease that aching back. July 14, 2-3 p.m. Call 425.821.8210 to register
Caring for Two Generations Examine effective strategies to help overcome the challenges faced as your parents get older. Aug. 11, 2-3 p.m. Call 425.821.8210 to register
The Art of Positive Thinking Do you know the words we use or the thoughts we have can actually make us sick? Join us for a discussion on the power of positive thinking and self talk. Sept. 8, 2-3 p.m. Call 425.821.8210 to register
Sept. 19, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Call 425.489.0707 to register
Registration is required or classes may be cancelled.
Mill Creek Senior Center
Northshore Senior Center
15720 Main Street, Annex (Huntron) Building next to Mill Creek City Hall Mill Creek
10201 E Riverside Dr., Bothell
First Aid for Fido Keep your pet safe and healthy by learning how to identify and respond to pet emergencies. Please leave pets at home. July 13, 10-11 a.m. Call 425.948.7170 to register
Fraud Fighters Whether through the mailbox, the telephone, or the Internet, criminals are finding creative ways into people’s homes. Half of those victims are age 50 and older. Being able to recognize consumer scams can reduce the likelihood of being victimized by over fifty percent. Learn how to protect yourself! Aug. 10, 10-11 a.m. Call 425.948.7170 to register
Cooking for One Break poor eating patterns. Learn how to make healthy food choices and adapt recipes. Sept. 21, 10-11 a.m. Call 425.948.7170 to register
More Water?! Dehydration is among the top 10 reasons older patients are admitted to hospitals. Learn why drinking the appropriate amount of water daily can greatly enhance overall health. July 12, 12:45-2 p.m. Call 425.487.2441 to register
Self Defense for Seniors Give yourself confidence and peace of mind by learning some simple techniques that will help you to protect yourself and ensure your personal safety. July 26, 12:45-2 p.m. Call 425.487.2441 to register
Time Out! Respite Taking time out for yourself can be difficult when a loved one depends on you for daily care. Learn about resources available to help caregivers access time and support to attend to their own needs.
From Snoring to Snoozing Does your partner keep the house awake at night? A specialist will uncover the reasons for snoring and treatment options to keep the household sleeping through the night. Aug. 30, 12:45-2 p.m. Call 425.487.2441 to register
Stretching Yourself Simple stretching can help ease aching and stiff muscles and joints, increase range of motion and prevent injury. Learn safe and effective stretches to “gain” without the “pain.” Sept. 6, 12:45-2 p.m. Call 425.487.2441 to register
Do I Have Asthma? Do you suffer from shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing? Join us to learn what causes asthma and what treatments are available. Sept. 20, 12:45-2 p.m. Call 425.487.2441 to register
Aug. 23, 12:45-2 p.m. Call 425.487.2441 to register
Registration is required or classes may be cancelled.
Peter Kirk Community Center 352 Kirkland Ave., Kirkland
Eating to Live! Whether your goal is to manage your weight or increase energy, vitality and stamina, this class is for you! Create a health enhancing diet plan by understanding your body’s nutritional requirements, and discover the latest in nutritional myths and fads from television and print. July 1, 12:45-2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register
Fall Prevention and Balance Avoid pain and injury by learning what steps you can take to improve balance and prevent falls in your home and daily routines. July 8, 12:45-2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register
Pressure Sores As people age, the soft tissue becomes more fragile. Skin becomes thinner and less elastic, and injures more easily. Skin in this condition may easily develop a pressure sore. Learn preventive measures and how to treat a sore. July 15, 12:45-2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register
Medications for a Healthier Heart A discussion of medications used to manage heart failure and how to help your meds work best for you. July 22, 12:45-2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register
Macular Degeneration It’s the leading cause of blindness for people over the age of fifty. Review the early signs of macular degeneration and how it is treated. July 29, 12:45-2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register
Caring for Your Kidneys Learn how kidneys function, how they are affected by medication, hypertension, and illness and what you can do to protect yourself. Aug. 5, 12:45-2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register
FAD Diets Atkins, Zone, Carbohydrate Addict or Sugar Busters? How do you know which may be right for you. Learn about the nutritional implications of popular diets and solve your carbohydrate confusion. Aug. 12, 12:45-2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register
First Response Gain the knowledge and confidence to act quickly and correctly if you are the first person upon an emergency situation. Learn techniques to help you effectively communicate with emergency response personnel and how to be of the most assistance to someone in trouble. Aug. 19, 12:45-2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register
Creative Cooking Learn the basics for easy ways to create healthy meals using fresh fruits and vegetables. Sept. 9, 12:45-2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register
Why Am I Dizzy? Learn the symptoms and causes of balance disorders related to the inner ear. Also what your doctor will need to know to help you and what can be done to manage your symptoms. Sept. 16, 12:45-2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register
Healthier Smile, Healthier You Learn about the importance of oral health to total health. Information on tooth decay, nutrition and gum disease and how they relate to heart disease, stroke and pneumonia will be covered. Toothbrushes or toothpaste will be available. Sept. 23, 12:45-2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register
Exercise for Osteoporosis Exercise plays an important role in the prevention and slowing of osteoporosis. If done improperly, exercise can put brittle and porous bones at further risk for injury. Learn what precautions and exercises are necessary to help without harm. Sept. 30, 12:45-2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register
Registration is required or classes may be cancelled.
Redmond Senior Center 8703 160th Ave. NE, Redmond
Are You Ready for an Emergency? Don’t be caught unprepared if an emergency happens. Learn what essential items you should have and where they should be stored.
Less Is More The need to downsize confronts older adults and the adult children that care for them. Respect the dignity of those in your care and together view this lifestyle change as an opportunity to sort and value what you have, store and organize what to keep, and distribute what you no longer need or want.
July 13, 10-11:15 a.m. Call 425.556.2314 to register
Aug. 10, 10-11:15 a.m. Call 425.556.2314 to register
More Water?! Dehydration is among the top 10 reasons older patients are admitted to hospitals. Learn why drinking the appropriate amount of water daily can greatly enhance overall health.
Avoiding Medication Misadventures Do you know that adults process drugs differently as they age? The same medication at the same dose at age 50 may need adjustment at age 70. Learn how this process can affect medications’ safety and effectiveness for older adults.
July 27, 10-11:15 a.m. Call 425.556.2314 to register
Less Is More (Part 2) The need to downsize confronts older adults and the adult children that care for them. Respect the dignity of those in your care and together view this lifestyle change as an opportunity to sort and value what you have, store and organize what to keep, and distribute what you no longer need or want. Sept. 14, 10-11:15 a.m. Call 425.556.2314 to register
Eating for Healthy Weight Loss Talk to a nutritionist about diet risks, myths and fads. Learn simple, safe tips for achieving healthy weight loss while maintaining balanced nutrition. Sept. 28, 10-11:15 a.m. Call 425.556.2314 to register
Aug. 24, 10-11:15 a.m. Call 425.556.2314 to register
Walk this Way Learn to maximize benefits, monitor progress and prevent injury. July 19, Brittany Park What’s Great on Your Summer Plate? Learn healthy eating and tips for good hydration. July 21, Evergreen Hospital July 28, Emerald Heights
Summer Health for Seniors More Water?! Learn why drinking water can enhance overall health and keep you out of the hospital. July 12, Northshore Sr. Center July 27, Redmond Sr. Center
Summer Travel: Keep Moving Learn to keep blood moving and muscles relaxed on long flights. Aug. 25, Emerald Heights
see full class descriptions under location headings
Registration is required or classes may be cancelled.
PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Mailed from zip code 98034 Permit No. 300 12040 NE 128th Street Kirkland, WA 98034 CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED
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Hydration
Travel
Nutrition
An adult should drink about eight glasses of water a day, even more with extreme heat or exertion. When it’s hot, be alert for signs of dehydration, which include a decrease in urination, dry mouth and throat, and feeling dizzy when standing up. If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink or has prescribed water pills, ask how much you should drink when the weather is hot.
The speed of air travel makes exotic destinations accessible, but long flights can pose a risk of potentially lethal blood clots called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Older travelers who fly frequently are at greatest risk of DVT, especially on longer flights. If you’re planning a long flight, it makes sense to see your doctor first, and to attend our Summer Travel class.
As people age, their caloric needs decline, but their need for nutrients does not. That’s why it’s important that seniors eat a variety of nutrient-rich food. For help with planning delicious, healthy meals this summer, please consider taking one of our nutrition classes.
Please see the special Summer Health for Seniors section inside this newsletter for classes related to avoiding falls, nutrition, exercise, hydration and travel.
Subscribe to Evergreen’s free health e-newsletters at www.evergreenhospital.org/newsletter.