Flourish advice and information for Seniors. Issue 4 2017/18 by INFORM Ireland

Flourish Issue 4 2017/18

advice and information for Seniors

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midweek at hotel break n the Sherato Athlone

BRENT POPE talks Mental Health Focus on Osteoporosis Get Cooking

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Visitor Attractions Guides Flourish Issue 4

Contents Health & Wellbeing

WELCOME to magazine! In this issue we look at a wide range of health and lifestyle issues relevant to Seniors ranging from bone health to heart health and cookery schools to dating. We hope you enjoy the read.

10 18

02 04 07 09 13 16

Bone Health Focus on Osteoporosis Eating for a healthy heart Men’s Health Being Diabetes Smart Being Breast Aware

Lifestyle 10 14 15 23 26 27

Brent Pope talks Mental Health Useful Apps for the visually impaired NCBI and Technology Blogs and Websites Best Pet Companions Alone’s Befriending Service

Leisure

18 20 22 24

Get Cooking Recipes Two’s Company Things to do and places to see

Competition Time

28 Win a 2 night mid week break at the Sheraton Athlone Hotel

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Bone Health Enjoy vitality with nourished muscles and bones

ou might be aware that populations are now living longer so it is a great time to be a senior and embrace the joys of life! Whether we choose to continue working into our later years, take up new hobbies or simply spend time playing with our grandchildren, good nutrition can provide the energy and nutrients we need to stay strong and active.

Having healthy bones and muscles can make a big difference to the quality of our lives. While bone and muscle loss is a natural part of the ageing process, prolonged or significant losses can result in our bodies becoming frail and fragile. This increases the risk of falls and fractures, which impact our vitality and independence.

Although genetics and other lifestyle factors play a role, there are some steps we can take to preserve healthy bones and muscles as we age: daily exercise and nutrients such as calcium, protein and vitamin D are key. Take part in daily weight-bearing exercise e.g. brisk hill walking, climbing stairs or jogging, it will have Aim for a healthy, you feeling great and boost your ‘happy balanced diet with a endorphins’. wide range of colourful

Here are some tips to help you on your way:

fruit and vegetables included at each meal e.g. try berries with breakfast, salad with lunch and at least two vegetables with dinner. Swap an unhealthy snack for Muscles need a piece of fruit! a constant supply

of protein across the If you don’t day so spread your intake get a lot of across meals. Sources sunshine, boost your include: lean meat, poultry, vitamin D intake with fish, eggs, milk, yogurt, some oily fish such as cheese, beans and salmon or mackerel, eggs, lentils. or dairy products that are fortified with Boost your vitamin D. calcium intake by including 3 servings of dairy across the day. Milk, yogurt and cheese are versatile, affordable and not only are they rich in calcium but also naturally contain a wide range of other important nutrients such as protein, B-vitamins, phosphorus and iodine. To download the National Dairy Council’s free booklet

on Nutrition for 50+ years, go to: www.ndc.ie 2

Flourish Issue 4

The National Dairy Council

Nutrition&You Series The ‘Nutrition & You’ series has been developed by the National Dairy Council and endorsed by the Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute to highlight the importance of a healthy lifestyle throughout the life stages.

50+ Years In Ireland, as in many countries in the world, people are now living longer than ever before. To enjoy this phase of life to the full we need to maintain our energy and vitality – whether we choose to continue working into our later years, take up new hobbies or run after the grandchildren!

Nutrition&You 50+Years

This booklet highlights the importance of a nutritious diet and active lifestyle at this stage of life. It provides advice for positive ageing with top tips on healthy living such as bone and muscle health, keeping active, dental health and practical food choices.

Also available in the Nutrition&You series Nutrition&You

Children

Nutrition&You

Booklets may be downloaded from www.ndc.ie/publications or a limited number of copies may be ordered by contacting info@ndc.ie

Nutrition&You Adults

Focus on Osteoporosis Osteoporosis affects Men, Women & Children Michele O’Brien, CEO, The Irish Osteoporosis Society

steoporosis is a disease that makes the inside of your bones weak, but on the outside, you can look perfectly fine. You will not feel your bones getting thinner, as there are no signs or symptoms and this is why it is called the “Silent Killer”. The effects of undiagnosed Osteoporosis are NOT silent. • 20% of people who break their hip aged 60+ will die within 6 to 12 months. • 50% of people who break their hip aged 60+ will lose their independence. • 90% of broken hips are due to Osteoporosis. Most people think that Osteoporosis only affects older women, even though 1 in 4 men and 1 in 2 women aged 50 have Osteoporosis and it even effects children. 300,000 people in Ireland have osteoporosis but sadly only 15% (20,000) are actually diagnosed. Osteoporosis is preventable, treatable and reversible in certain cases, even people in their 90’s have improved their bone health.

Signs and Symptoms of possible undiagnosed Osteoporosis • A broken bone caused by a trip and fall from a standing position or less: It is not normal to break a bone from a trip and fall. • Many people believe that it is normal to lose height as you get older. It is a red flag that you may have undiagnosed Osteoporosis. • Your posture changing: Your shoulders becoming rounded, your head forward from your body or a hump developing on your upper back. • Back pain: This could be a sign that a fracture (a broken bone) has happened, especially if you have any of the signs or symptoms above.

Left, healthy bone. Right, Osteoporosis bone. continued on page 6 4

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There are nearly 200 causes of bone loss and all causes of bone loss must be found and addressed. Causes of bone loss should NEVER be assumed. Risk factors: Family history of broken bones, chemotherapy, radiation, arimidex, warfarin, heparin, steroids, eating disorders, smoking, excess alcohol and coeliac disease. Exercise can play an important part in helping to reduce your risk of Osteoporosis and it is also important for treating bone loss. However, unless you have had a DXA scan of your spine and hips and the result is negative (A DXA scan is the only test the Irish Osteoporosis Society recommend for screening and diagnosing Osteoporosis), no one 50+ should begin exercise classes, without checking to see if you have risk factors for Osteoporosis.

Calcium and Vitamin D3 Calcium and Vitamin D3 are essential for healthy bones. Calcium helps to give bone 6

strength. Calcium is found in milk, yoghurt, cheese, sardines and salmon. There is a worldwide problem with people not getting enough Vitamin D and low levels of Vitamin D have been linked to not only Osteoporosis but multiple forms of Cancer and Multiple Sclerosis. Low levels of vitamin D can cause aches and pains which mimic the symptoms of fibromyalgia. Vitamin D can also be found in fish such as salmon, tuna, sardines, mackerel, halibut and herring. Many milk products and margarines are fortified with vitamin D. Supplements are available if you cannot get them through food. For further information please contact the Irish Osteoporosis SocietyÂ at 01 6375050. www.irishosteoporosis.ie. Email: info@irishosteoporosis.ie. Flourish Issue 4

Eating for a healthy heart R

esearch has shown that heart disease and stroke can be prevented through your lifestyle habits, such as eating a healthy diet and being physically active. A healthy diet can help lower your risk of heart disease and stroke by: • Improving your cholesterol levels • Reducing your blood pressure • Helping manage your weight • Controlling your blood sugar

Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables Packed with nutrients -antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and fibre – fruit and vegetables help you maintain a healthy weight by keeping you full for longer. Aim for 7-10 servings of vegetables and fruit every day.

Choose wholegrain foods Wholegrain foods have fibre, protein and B vitamins to help you stay healthy. Choose wholegrain options instead of processed or refined grains like white bread and pasta. These foods are high in energy but low in fat.

Eat a variety of foods that provide protein Foods with protein include fish, beans, dairy products and lean meat. Protein helps build and maintain bones, muscles and skin. Try to eat at least two servings of fish each week.

Dairy food consumption is associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and lower blood pressure. These foods are good sources of calcium and vitamin D for strong bones and protein. Try to choose low-fat varieties as they contain the same amount of calcium as full-fat alternatives.

Avoid highly processed foods. These are foods that are changed from their original food source and have many added ingredients. During processing, important nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and fibre are removed while salt and sugar are added.

Top Tips • Plan and prepare meals at home using fresh ingredients • Oven-bake, grill or poach foods instead of frying • Fill half your plate with vegetables and fruit at every meal • Avoid sugary drinks – drink water instead • Eat at least 3 meals a day with healthy snacks in between • Add daily exercise to your routine to maintain a healthy heart! 7

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Men’s Health The challenge facing men Michael McKeon, Lecturer in Nursing, Dublin City University

here’s no denying that the state of men’s health on the island of Ireland is often poor. However, there are things that can be done to change this situation and men, themselves, can play a key role in doing this.

Men’s health guidelines suggest that men live a less healthy lifestyle than women. Despite serious issues facing men, most of the associated health concerns are preventable and can be reversed. The challenge facing men is to understand and confront changes that affect their health and proactively prevent health decline. Studies show that changes in key lifestyle behaviours can prevent negative health outcomes. Changes in one key behaviour, being physically active, could avoid 90% of type-2 diabetes, 80% of coronary heart disease and 40% of cancers. Physical activity has been acknowledged as one of the key lifestyle behaviours necessary to combat weight gain, a key fundamental influence to reduce illness and in addition promote positive changes in all determinants of a healthy lifestyle.

The issue of being overweight While weight gain is an ongoing concern for women, the future outlook indicates men are overtaking women on the weighing scales. A recent worldwide review of obesity reported 66% of Irish men were overweight. Adults who are overweight are more likely to have high blood pressure, with Irish men also recording high blood pressure levels. While anti-obesity initiatives have focused on both diet and physical activity, diet has been the main focus. However, physical activity would now appear to have an equal if not a greater role alongside diet in weight management. Your health concerns are preventable. Understand them and make changes to your lifestyle! Take the first step by having a conversation with your GP.

Brent Pope talks Mental Health B

rent Pope is a New Zealand born rugby player, professional rugby coach, and one of Irelands best known and respected media personalities. Brent has been prominent as one of RTÉ’s main rugby pundits since 1993.

Brent has worked with various charities, having a special aﬃliation with mental health charities and was kind enough to offer us an insight in to his own experience with mental health diﬃculties. “The greatest lesson I ever learnt, having suffered mental health issues for most of my life was to constantly ‘change the in, to change the out’. To have any real purpose in my life I would have to be prepared to step out of my comfort zone. I have constantly battled with catastrophe anxiety and panic attacks and like many people my age grew up in a generation of the ‘man’s man’ where real men did not talk or open up about emotions. We all have issues in our lives and have to realise that life no matter where it takes us is a learning experience. I chose to be happy, and this changed the way I thought about things. 10

An empowering thing to do regardless of age is to write down a few things that you want to do in your life in a notebook, your bucket list. It might be to build a better relationship with your partner, or your family and friends, maybe to sail the world or retire to a beautiful beach life. Then write under the list in bold letters “You have a choice”. Life is really all about choices. I was always told from an early age what I couldn’t do rather than what I could. I worked to prove my doubters wrong, and to some extent I believe I have. I am not a millionaire, I’m not a movie star but at 55 years of age I can look back and say that I have achieved a lot and at the end of the day I feel that’s what’s important. I have studied, worked in various jobs, played sport at the highest level, written books and been on television, not too bad for a small chubby faced kid from the back and beyond in New Zealand.” Flourish Issue 4

In 2014 Brent established “POPE” shirts. With a “passion for fashion” and often voted as one of “Irelands best dressed men” Brent wanted to bring his own distinctive brand to the Irish market.

Pope’s Passion for Fashion

“For years I was always sponsored to wear brand shirts on the television. After a while I asked myself, “why can’t I design my own shirts? Why can’t I promote my own brand rather than other brands?” I have always loved fashion, even as a young man I always kept up with the trends, so despite being told that I would be a fool to venture into the rag trade, I thought that I would cobble some money together and at least try. Now three years on I am involved in every aspect of my POPE brand, from design and selling to packaging and delivery. I source materials from the best factories in the likes of Italy and France and they are tailored in the best fashion houses in Europe.

For me it is all about quality, 100% cotton and the best material I can afford. While my margins are small, it was always about producing a quality product that looks good and is great value. I could have opted for cheaper fabrics, tailoring and buttoning for greater profit, but that would be selling my product and my customer short. I wanted my customer to get the best product I could possibly deliver and I think I have achieved that. I wanted the style to be classic and timeless with whites, blues and pinks that people of all ages would love to wear, especially men of a similar age to me that still want to look smart yet age appropriate too. Whatever happens, the buzz I get out of someone coming up to me and saying they love their POPE shirt is what it’s about for me, it’s validation that for a small town country boy I’m doing something with my life.” 11

WWW.MALEHEALTH.IE

MEN’S HEALTH ADVICE AND RESOURCES FROM OVER 40 OF IRELAND’S LEADING HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS

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Being Diabetes Smart A

n increase in the prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes and Prediabetes has led to changes in the way diabetes care is delivered. In 2015, the Type 2 Diabetes Cycle of Care Initiative was introduced whereby Type 2 patients with a medical card or GP visit card are entitled to have a full structured review by their GP twice a year. There are about 225,840 people living with diabetes in Ireland and given rising obesity levels in younger age groups, the figure for Prediabetes could be an additional 450,000 people. Prediabetes indicates a high risk of developing Type 2.

An Educational Tool for patients to support GP’s & Practice Nurses Diabetes Ireland in conjunction with Trinity College, Dublin recently launched “Diabetes Smart”, a 55 minute online interactive patient programme consisting of videos, quizzes and visual tools that people diagnosed with Prediabetes or Type 2 Diabetes can watch and participate in, from the comfort of their own homes.

What is Diabetes Smart? Diabetes Smart is divided into 5 modules that explain: 1. Diabetes (5 minutes) 2. Healthy Eating (20 minutes) 3. Exercise(10 minutes) 4. Diabetes Medications (10 minutes) and 5. Complications (10 minutes)

The following is a snapshot of what a patient will experience with Diabetes Smart: • Visuals of carbohydrate food portion sizes using everyday utensils to help identify correct portion sizes. • A visual quiz to test knowledge on foods affecting blood glucose. • Tips to reduce portion sizes, dine out healthily, read a food label and shop wisely. • Patients can check their starting fitness levels and be guided on how long to exercise for and what exercise is right for them. • Information on medications, how they work and side-effects. • Driving & Diabetes. • Hypo’s are explained with steps for management. • Health complications.

How do I access Diabetes Smart? Your GP or Practice Nurse can show you how to access and navigate Diabetes Smart or ask a younger member of your family to get you started on the course using a computer, laptop or iPad at home. Diabetes Smart can be viewed at www.diabetes.ie. Diabetes Ireland Tel: 1850 909 909. 13

Useful Apps

to assist the visually impaired

ith the advances in technology in recent years, a regular smartphone, equipped with specific applications can assist visually impaired and blind people to live more independently. Here are some useful tailor-made Apps:

TalkBack/Voice Assistant (Android) is designed to help blind and visually impaired users with using their mobile devices. It aids low-vision users by speaking actions out loud as items are touched, selected or activated. To enable TalkBack/Voice Assistant, users just need to go to Settings > Accessibility and enable the service.

KNFB Reader (iOS and Android) The KNFB Reader app is an essential tool for anyone with low vision, or diﬃculty reading. It reads anything from menus, bills, documents, signs, mail, PDFs and more! Simply take a picture of any text with your mobile device and the app reads it aloud or displays it with a connected Braille display.

VoiceOver (iOS) is a gesture-based screen reader that lets you enjoy using iPhone even if you don’t see the screen. With VoiceOver enabled, just triple-click the Home button to access it wherever you are in iOS. Hear a description of everything happening on your screen, from battery level to who’s calling, to which app your finger is on. You can also adjust the speaking rate and pitch to suit you.

SuperVision+ Magnifier (iOS and Android) This is the only magnifying glass app on the market that offers live image stabilisation capability. Highly magnified images are usually shaking. It is a problem especially for older people. From reading small to seeing signs at far distance, this is a great app for seeing better and clearer.

TapTapSee (iOS and Android) An app designed for blind and visually impaired people to identify objects they encounter in their daily lives. Simply double tap the screen to take a photo of anything, at any angle and hear the app speak the identification back to you (requires Talkback to be turned on). Color ID (iOS and Android) This app uses the camera on your phone to speak the names of colours around you. 14

Money Talks Euro (Android) This app hopes to help those who are blind and visually impaired to classify bank notes easily without assistance. Nantmobile Money Reader (iOS) LookTel Money Reader instantly recognizes currency and speaks the denomination, enabling people with visual impairments or blindness to quickly and easily identify and count notes.

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NCBI and Technology

t the National Council for the Blind of Ireland (NCBI) we are passionate about utilising the amazing technology devices available to benefit people who are blind or visually impaired. If you have little or no vision, you may find it diﬃcult or impossible to do things that so many people take for granted. These include using the internet, booking flights, reading printed items, but technology can help hugely. NCBI provides assistive technology advice and training along with a Technology Podcast, a Virtual Technology Club and Tech news.

you step-by-step through the installation and configuration of the software, and allow you to connect to our virtual meeting room.

NCBI Technology Podcast

Tech News

NCBI produces a podcast, the Technology Podcast. This monthly podcast is jam-packed with news, reviews, interviews and information on new Assistive Technologies. The podcast is created and hosted by NCBI’s Stuart Lawler.

The first edition of NCBI’s quarterly technology e-newsletter, Tech News, was released in May 2017. You can download a copy of the e-newsletter on www.ncbi.ie. Tech News aims to keep you up to date with the latest technology trends and products for people with sight loss and stay informed about upcoming technology events, and much more. To receive the e-newsletter sign up on our website or email technews@ncbi.ie.

Virtual Technology Club This year, NCBI began a Virtual Technology Club. Our Virtual Technology Club takes place online. It allows people to learn and share information and tips with each other. It creates a space where knowledge and experiences can be exchanged freely. The sessions are also available as podcasts afterwards if you can’t make one.

For any queries, or if you have a recommended topic for discussion in the next virtual technology club meeting, email Stuart.Lawler@ncbi.ie.

To access the sessions, we use a piece of software called Team Talk that you’ll need to have installed on your computer, phone or iPad to join. Our Virtual Technology Club User Guide is available on our website and will walk

Being Breast Aware

reast cancer is the most common cancer in women in Ireland, after skin cancer. Around 2,900 women and 30 men are diagnosed with it each year. The majority of breast cancers occur in women over the age of 50. It is important that every woman is breast aware. This means knowing what is normal for you so that if any unusual change occurs, you will recognise it. The sooner you notice a change the better, because if cancer is found early, treatment is more likely to be successful. Get into the habit of looking at and feeling your breasts from time to time. This will help you to notice any change if it occurs. If you have any symptoms or changes in your body that you are worried about, it’s important to have them checked by your GP (family doctor). The chances are it will not be cancer. Getting your symptoms checked is not wasting anyone’s time.

What are the symptoms of breast cancer? • A change in the size or shape of one breast. • A change in the skin, like puckering, dimpling (like orange peel) or redness. • A change in the nipple shape or direction, like a pulled-in or flattened nipple. • An unusual discharge (liquid) from one or both of your nipples. • A change on or around the nipple, such as a rash or flaky or crusted skin. • Swelling in your armpit or around your collarbone. • A lump, any size, or thickening in your breast. • Constant pain in one part of your breast or armpit. These symptoms can be caused by other things, but always get them checked out. For more information on breast cancer and how to reduce your risk check out www.cancer.ie or to speak to nurse contact our Cancer Nurseline Freephone 1800 200 700

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Get Cooking H

ave you ever watched a cookery programme and wondered what it would be like to rustle up exotic dishes and culinary delights?

There is a range of cookery courses and classes available nationwide so why not give it a go? Courses and packages are available to individuals and groups. Here are a few to whet your appetite:

Ballyknocken House & Cookery School

Located in county Wicklow, Ballyknocken House & Cookery School is conveniently located only 40 minutes from Dublin and is home to celebrity chef and award winning food writer, Catherine Fulvio. Catherine fulfilled a dream when she converted the old milking parlour into a cookery school that has since gone from strength-to-strength, being voted the winner of the International Cordon D’Or Culinary Academy of the year. The family tradition of providing B&B 18

accommodation combined with walking packages and the option of the Cookery School makes Ballyknocken the perfect location for a foodie, leisure break or walking holiday. Ballyknocken House is a 4* Victorian Farmhouse and boasts seven beautifully appointed rooms all with period features in a picturesque setting, and you can enjoy all that Ballyknocken House & Cookery School has to offer with or without B&B accommodation. The grounds are extensive, offering a large vegetable garden and an exotic herb garden, both supplying seasonal homegrown ingredients to the guesthouse and cookery school. Ballyknocken House & Cookery School, Glenealy, Ashford, Co Wicklow. Email: reservations@ballyknocken.com. Tel: 0404-44627. www.ballyknocken.ie.

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Ballymaloe Cookery School

Ballymaloe Cookery School celebrated its 30 year anniversary in September 2013. Founded in 1983 by Darina Allen and her brother Rory O’Connell, the school has grown to become one of the most prestigious cookery schools in the world. Students come expecting a practical culinary education, and they leave with so much more! Students learn not only to cook but also to work in harmony with the landscape around them, to tune in to the seasons and cook with passion. Courses range from Afternoon Cookery Classes to Week Long Cookery Courses and Bespoke Private Classes. www. cookingisfun.ie The Ballymaloe Cookery School and gardens are 4km from Ballymaloe House and the many functional outbuildings (Ballymaloe Grainstore, Carrigaun room and Big Shed). Ideal for everything from short romantic breaks away and family holidays to weddings, corporate events, team building activities and seminars. Ballymaloe House offers various accommodation packages and serves home grown or sourced produce. The on-site Ballymaloe Farm Cottages are rented on a selfcatering basis. Ballymaloe Cookery School, Shanagarry, Co. Cork. Tel: 021-464 6785. Email: info@cookingisfun.ie. www.cookingisfun.ie. Ballymaloe House, Shanagarry, Co. Cork. Tel: 021-465 2531. www.ballymaloe.ie.

Dublin Cookery School

Lynda Booth’s Dublin Cookery School is an award-winning cookery school situated in Blackrock, Co Dublin. Offering cookery courses to cooks of all abilities, it is housed in a state-of-the-art facility and offers the very best of what local artisans have to offer alongside a team of professional and industry experienced tutors. As well as a wide variety of evening, one day and one week courses, they also offer a One Month Certificate and professional Three Month Certificate programme. Course titles include: Healthy Eating Made Easy, A Cheat’s Guide to Gourmet Cooking, World Street Food, Gourmet Pizza Masterclass, Get Inspired by Wholefoods, A Taste of Italy, The Spice Trail, A Taste of the Middle East, Focus on Fish, Man in the Kitchen and many more.

For more information about their cookery courses, corporate or private events, or to purchase a gift voucher for the foodie in your life, you can go to their website www.dublincookeryschool.ie, email them at info@dublincookeryschool.ie or call them directly on 01-210 0555.

Duo of Soups

eetroot and Jerusalem Artichoke with Bacon

For the Beetroot Soup • extra virgin olive oil, for sautéing • 1 onion, finely chopped • 1 medium carrot, diced • 1 tsp chopped thyme • 1 litre vegetable stock • 4 cooked beetroot, chopped • 2 tsp chopped dill • salt and freshly ground black pepper

Method To make the beetroot soup, heat the oil in a large saucepan, add the onion and carrot and sauté for about 6 minutes until just soft. Stir in the thyme, pour in the vegetable stock and add the beetroot. Simmer for about 20 minutes, until the carrot has softened. Stir in the dill, then check the seasoning, adding salt and freshly ground black pepper as necessary. Ladle the soup into a blender and purée until smooth. Return to the saucepan and add extra vegetable stock if too thick.

For the Jerusalem Artichoke Soup • extra virgin olive oil, for sautéing • 50g smoked bacon lardons • 1 onion, finely chopped • 2 garlic cloves, chopped • 1 tbsp chopped chives • 20 medium Jerusalem artichokes, peeled and diced • 1 litre vegetable stock • 50ml cream • salt and freshly ground black pepper • 2 tsp chopped chives, to garnish

Method To make the Jerusalem artichoke soup, heat a little oil in a large saucepan over a medium heat. Add the lardons and sauté until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper. Add the onion and sauté until softened but not browned. Add the garlic and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in the chives, Jerusalem artichokes and vegetable stock and simmer for about 20 minutes, until the artichokes are soft. Return the crispy smoked bacon to the soup. Add the cream and simmer for about 2 minutes. Check the seasoning, adding salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into a food processor and blend until smooth. Check the seasoning again and return to the saucepan – add some extra vegetable stock if too thick.

To serve, heat the soups, then pour each into a separate large jug. Pour both soups at the same time into warm soup bowls. Using a fork, gently swirl the soups together. Sprinkle the chives into the centre of each bowl and serve immediately. For more information on Catherine and the Ballyknocken Cookery School log onto www.ballyknocken.ie 20

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Winter Rabbit Casserole Serves 4 to 6 Rabbit is very popular in Sicily, where my husband is from, and my dad often tells of how he enjoyed my grandmother’s rabbit stew. It’s something that has lost popularity in Ireland but seems to be making a comeback. Many butchers stock rabbit nowadays. If rabbit isn’t to your liking, try this recipe with chicken or pork.

Ingredients • 2 rabbits, portioned (ask your butcher to do this) • 2 tbsp flour, seasoned with salt, freshly ground black pepper and ¼ tsp of cumin • rapeseed oil, for frying • 100g smoked bacon, diced • 1 onion, diced • 2 garlic cloves, chopped • 3 medium sprigs of rosemary • 1 celery stick, sliced • 1 yellow pepper, deseeded and sliced • 2 bay leaves • 250ml pear cider • 300ml vegetable stock • salt and freshly ground black pepper • 1 pear, sliced into thin wedges and sautéed in a little butter, to garnish bay leaves

Method Dust the rabbit portions in the seasoned flour. Heat some oil in a casserole dish over a medium heat and add the rabbit portions. Sear on all sides and set aside on a clean plate. Add the bacon to the casserole dish and cook until crispy. Transfer to a clean plate. Heat a little more oil and add the onion, garlic, rosemary and celery and sauté for about 3 minutes. Stir the yellow pepper slices and bay leaves into the casserole and cook for 5 minutes before adding the pear cider and cooking for a further 5 minutes. Return the rabbit to the casserole and pour over the vegetable stock. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper and simmer slowly for about 1 hour, stirring from time to time. Serve with Mustard and Spinach Mash and some pear wedges on top, garnished with bay leaves.

Recipes from Catherine Fulvio’s Ballyknocken Cookery School. For more information on Catherine and the Ballyknocken Cookery School log onto www.ballyknocken.ie 21

Two’s Company T

rying to find love is one of life’s greatest challenges. If you aren’t lucky enough to have met the love of your life in college or to fall for a friend of a friend, trying to meet that special someone becomes a minefield.

Jennifer Haskins started her introduction agency Two’s Company to solve that problem. Clients of Two’s Company are people looking for genuine lasting companionship, people who want similar things in life and love. As is the case with matters of the heart, sensitivity, and understanding are top priorities for Jennifer. “People who come to us want something genuine, wholesome, and long term. They are emotionally ready for a relationship.” Jennifer explains. Particular care is shown to people who may be entering or re-entering the dating world at a later stage in life.

“Often, whether it is due to bereavement or relationship breakdown, it may be people’s first foray into a modern dating sphere. I do everything I can to support and encourage them because it is crucial that people are emotionally ready for a relationship.” More than 200,000 single people in Ireland are aged 40-70. One of our members- 70-year-old Susan decided to take a proactive step towards finding a partner by signing up to Two’s Company. Susan emphasises life-long learning, physical and intellectual activity, and a positive outlook as factors that gave her the confidence to start dating again.“Old people used to just sit in a corner – this has changed. I feel age is only a number.” Two’s Company’s client base is extremely diverse. People are signed up all over the country from ages 24 right up into the 80s, and Jennifer Haskins believes that being older and wiser when dating can be an advantage. In real life, love often gets better with age. One reason is that many of us learn from experience and mistakes. With maturity, we also tend to learn to manage our emotions better and deal with conflict more positively. We develop a clearer sense of who we are, what we want, and how to try and achieve it.” For more: www.twoscompany.ie. Tel: 01-4304017.

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Blogs and Websites enjoyed by Seniors H

ere is a selection of blogs and websites that are popular with silver surfers and we think you will love.

The Silver Voice

That’s Not My Age

The Silver Voice Blog is written by Angela Gallagher who gives her perspective on life after retirement and shares her experiences and stories from Ireland and abroad. www.thesilvervoice.wordpress.com

The grownup guide to great style!

If you are into fashion and love getting tips on staying fashionable no matter what age you are then you will love this blog from Alyson Walsh. www.thatsnotmyage.com

Irish Genealogy The website is dedicated to helping in the search for family history records for past generations. The website is home to the historic records of Births, Marriages and Deaths of the General Register Office. These records join the Indexes to the historic records of Births, Marriages and Deaths that were already available on the website. www.irishgenealogy.ie

IFI player The IFI Irish Film Archive (part of the Irish Film Institute) collects, preserves and shares Ireland’s national moving image collection, a diverse resource that chronicles over one hundred years of Irish achievement and experience. The Archive collection spans 1897 to the present day, and the cameras of filmmakers have captured the development of modern Ireland in a uniquely accessible manner. The most important social, political and historical events of the last century are represented, enabling us to explore our cultural identity and connect with the past. The IFI Player is a virtual viewing room for these remarkable collections, giving audiences across the globe instant access to this rich heritage. Home movies, newsreels, travelogues, animations, feature films, public information films and documentaries are included. www.ifiplayer.ie 23

Things to do and places to see I

reland has so much to see and do. Why not combine a mini break with a chance to visit some museums or attractions? Many attractions are open year round and offer good discounts for seniors. Some are mentioned here but you can find many more ideas and events on www.heritageisland.com

Airfield Estate was established in 1974 by the Overend family for recreational and educational purposes. This working farm and visitor attraction is just 20 minutes drive from Dublin city centre. Airfield offers many experiences including exhibitions, tours, walks and glorious food and is definitely worth a visit. Tel: 01 969 6666. www.Airfield.ie.

Birr Castle Gardens and Science Centre are home to the Great Telescope, once the largest in the world. Visit the historic science centre and go back in time to when Birr Castle was a hub of scientific discovery and innovation. Courtyard cafĂŠ and tea rooms also on-site. Tel: 057 912 0336. www.birrcastle.com

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GPO Witness History is located in the historical and iconic GPO building on O’Connell Street in Dublin this award-winning permanent attraction focuses on the 1916 Rising, its aftermath and how Ireland has developed since. History is brought to life through electronic touch screens, video, audio and authentic artefacts. On-site café and gift shop overlooking the courtyard. Tel: 01 872 1916. www.gpowitnesshistory.ie

House of Waterford Crystal is now located in the heart of Waterford City. The guided Factory Tour gives all visitors an up close and personal insight into the centuries-old tradition of Waterford Crystal making. The onsite Retail Store houses the largest collection of Waterford Crystal found worldwide. The exhibition of Sporting Trophies and Statement Pieces is also a must-see. After the tour take time to enjoy afternoon tea in the Crystal Café. Tel: 051 317 000. www.waterfordvisitorcentre.com

Kylemore Abbey is an ideal daytrip destination steeped in history in the heart of Connemara and home to Ireland’s only community of Benedictine nuns. Experience the Victorian atmosphere of the restored rooms of the Abbey, Neo Gothic Church and the Head Gardener’s House. Visit the café and tea room as well as the craft shop which offers the best of Irish products including Kylemore pottery from the on-site pottery studio and handmade chocolates and soaps made by the Benedictine nuns. Tel: 095 52001. www.kylemoreabbey.com 25

Best Pet Companions P

ets make great companions and owning a pet can help you in so many ways. They can boost mental health, lower heart rate, provide unconditional love and strengthen your immune system.

It has also been suggested that heart attack patients have better recovery rates if they own a dog or cat. If buying a new pet ensure you get all the necessary medical records, vaccination records and micro chipping details for the animal in question. Dogs will give you an increased sense of security. If buying a puppy it must be more than 8 weeks old and most can be neutered from six months plus. Owning a dog means you will get more exercise and walk more often than people of a similar age who are not dog owners. From a social aspect - people walking their dogs tend to stop and chat to each other about their dogs.

Birds such as Finches are easy to care for. They are small therefore they don’t need too much space and some can be lovely songbirds. Bigger breeds such as Cockatoos can be very affectionate and clingy. They love constant attention. If considering birds as pets do consider the lifespan of various breeds. Expect feathers and seeds scattered about under the cage so take necessary precautions to protect your flooring and carpets.

Cats can be affectionate and they don’t require much attention and don’t need to be walked. Cats have a lifespan of 15-20 years. If considering a kitten, make sure it’s at least 8 weeks old. Try to see the kitten with its mother. If buying an older cat, check if it is neutered. Cats can be neutered from 4 months old.

Fish can have a tranquil calming effect as you watch them swim about in their tanks. If you have never owned a fish before it is best to start with a small tank/aquarium and get plenty of expert advice from your local pet shop. The average life span of a goldfish is 5 to 10 years.

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Alone’s Befriending Service 1 in 10 older people suffer from chronic loneliness.

n 2016, there were approximately 624,000 people aged over 65 living in Ireland. By 2046, it is estimated that this will grow to 1.4 million - more than double within 30 years. This is good news; it means we are living longer lives. However, we need to ensure we are also living happier and healthier lives. With 1 in 3 over 65s living alone, social isolation can be a big problem.

ALONE has been supporting older people to age at home for 40 years. Through ALONE’s Befriending Service, volunteers provide companionship for older people, visiting them once a week for a chat and maybe a cup of tea. In 2015, ALONE established Befriending Network Ireland to help ensure everyone in Ireland has access to a quality befriending service. If you or someone you know might benefit from the Befriending Service or you are interested in becoming a volunteer, contact ALONE on 01 6791032 or hello@alone.ie.

“It is incredible how much of a difference that only 1 hour per week can make to someone, I get a real sense of fulfilment from volunteering with ALONE” Aaron Gilmartin, Brendan Crean’s volunteer.

Competition Time W

in a 2-night midweek hotel break with B&B and an evening meal for two people sharing in the Sheraton Athlone Hotel.

Step into the Heart of Ireland and take a trip to Ireland’s Lakelands while staying at the superior 4★★★★ Sheraton Athlone Hotel. Located in the heart of Ireland, in the centre of bustling Athlone town this hotel is an ideal base for exploring Athlone and its surroundings. To unwind you can indulge in a luxurious treatment at the Sirana Spa and afterwards enjoy your evening meal at La Provence Restaurant.

To be in with a chance to win, simply answer the following question. Good Luck! Which river runs through Athlone? a. Boyne b. Liffey c. Shannon Competition entries along with your name, phone number and email address can be submitted by email to enquiries@informireland.info or by post to INFORM, 4 Shannonside Business Park, Birdhill, Co. Tipperary. Closing date for entries is March 31st 2018

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