Flourish Issue 3 2017
advice and information for Seniors
W i n a
2-night midweek hotel break at the Sherato n
Managing Arthritis Summer Days Out Get Moving to add life to your years
Museums Historic Houses Gardens Distilleries Heritage Towns Caves Interpretative Centres Family Days Out Castles Suggested Tour Itineraries
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Discount Pass
Visitor Attractions Guides Flourish Issue 3
Contents Health & Wellbeing
WELCOME to magazine! In this issue we look at health and wellbeing issues relevant to Seniors, ranging from managing arthritis to footcare and from heart health to travel. We hope you enjoy the read.
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02 Heart Health 04 Getting your seven a day 08 Taking care of your feet 10 What does your pain feel like? 14 Aids to make life easier 16 Managing Arthritis
Lifestyle
06 The biggest Big Knit yet 12 Preventing falls 17 Get Moving to add life to your years
23 Style at any age 25 Keeping Fit Past 50 26 Delicious Summer Recipes
28
Travel 08
18 Summer Days Out 21 Travel Tips 22 OVER 50’s Holidays
Competition Time
28 Win a 2 night mid week break at the Sheraton Athlone Hotel Flourish magazine is distributed to GP surgery and health centre waiting rooms nationwide by INFORM Display Systems Ltd. We welcome your feedback on Flourish magazine. Email enquiries@informireland.info Advertising enquiries call: 061 338580
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Heart Health
Cardiovascular Disease
E
very hour someone in Ireland suffers from a stroke. Every day, hundreds of Irish people are diagnosed with heart disease. Cardiovascular disease (CVD), principally coronary heart disease (angina and heart attack) and stroke, is the leading cause of death and disability in men and women in the Ireland.
Ireland is similar to other developed countries with regard to an ageing population, and with this brings the increasing prevalence and duration of living with a chronic condition. Women aged 65 years and older account for almost half of all hospitalisations with CVD because they have a longer life expectancy than men. Whilst seeing CVD present in ever younger individuals, it remains more common in the older age groups and as people get older, the risk of developing these conditions increases.
Of course, adherence to medications and lifestyle recommendations may be challenging as activity levels decline and memory and cognition problems arise, but targeted interventions to assist and support older patients can be hugely beneficial. They need to be supported and protected to avoid debilitating strokes and chronic heart failure, so families Patricia Hall and society in general can benefit from their company and from their wisdom.
However, it is not an inevitable or unchangeable consequence of ageing. Maintaining independence and improving quality of life by reducing symptoms are desirable patient-centred goals. New lessinvasive treatment options may improve outcomes for older patients, who may previously have been considered high risk and unsuitable for traditional procedures.
For many people it can be an unexpected event and recovery can be complex. Nonetheless, it is never too late to change. The mission at Irish Heart is to affect positive change in the lifestyles of Irish people, to achieve better outcomes for those affected by heart disease 2
and stroke and to challenge when the health of the nation is put at risk.
Irish Heart aims to empower people to live longer, healthier lives and the target is a nation living better in order to reduce CVD by 25% by 2025. This is an ambitious target but one believed to be achievable. Patricia Hall RGN; RM; H Dip Cardiovascular Nursing; MSc Primary Health Care, is Irish Heart’s Helpline Nurse Manager. Patricia has a vast experience in the clinical care of patients with predominantly cardiovascular patients, which spans over 20 years and encompasses the acute to chronic arenas. Flourish Issue 3
you don’t have to be an acrobat to balance your cholesterol
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3
Getting your seven a day: How 100% orange juice can help by Dr. Mary Mc Creery
F
or years, it was a long-standing rule of thumb for health professionals to advise that we consume five portions of fruit and vegetables a day. The recent changes to Ireland’s food pyramid1 have altered this recommendation to between five and seven daily portions as part of a balanced diet. juice, which can often be confused with juices containing added sugar, or juice ‘from concentrate’.
Not needed for good health.
But a study from last year shows that actually only one in four of us Irish adults is getting our five a day2. This won’t come as a surprise to many as the pressures Healthy Food for Lifeof daily life, work and family often interfere with our dietary The Food Pyramid planning.
www.healthyireland.ie
When considering 100% fruit juice, many For adults, teenagers and children aged five and over consumers don’t know that a small glass of juice is one !of our recommended daily portions of fruit and vegetables. In fact, it seems that there is quite a lot about 100% fruit juice, and orange juice in particular, that we don’t know.
Foods and drinks high in fat, sugar and salt
NOT every day
Needed for good health. Enjoy a variety every day.
This begs the question: if consuming five portions of fruit and vegetables was often an uphill struggle, how then Fats, spreads and oils will we manage to consume seven Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, portions?
In very small amounts
2
beans and nuts
Servings a day
First ofMilk, all, it’s important to yogurt and cheese note that the new healthy eating Wholemeal guidelinescereals are and breads, potatoes, certainly useful: eating pasta and rice habits Vegetables, in Ireland are fruit not as salad goodand as they should be. As a country, 3–4 we are consuming too many that 4 4–5 3–4 3 3–4 foods 3 5–7 5–7 4–5 4–5 4–6 4 are high 3–5 in sugar, fat and salt, and not enough fruit and vegetables. *Daily Servings Guide – wholemeal cereals and breads, potatoes, pasta and rice Active
Child (5–12)
Teenager (13–18)
Adult (19–50)
Adult (51+)
Inactive
Teenager (13–18)
Adult (19–50)
Adult (51+)
There is no guideline for inactive children as it is essential that all children are active.
Source: Department of Health. December 2016.
The new Department of Health guidelines have made fruit and vegetables the largest ‘shelf ’ of the updated food pyramid, but this is not limited to whole fruits and vegetables; the pyramid also includes 100% natural fruit 4
Maximum once or twice a week
While most of us are aware of the high vitamin C content of 100% 3 orange juice, many may not know of the other benefits 3-5* orange juice can provide for your health. Now 5-7 there is a new body of scientific research to prove that not only is 100% orange juice one of your ‘seven a day’, it is much more besides. Servings a day
5 for children age 9–12 and teenagers age 13–18
Servings a day
Up to 7* for teenage boys and men age 19–50
Servings a day
Drink at least 8 cups of fluid a day – water is best
Get Active! To maintain a healthy weight adults need at least 30 minutes a day of moderate activity on 5 days a week (or 150 minutes a week); children need to be active at a moderate to vigorous level for at least 60 minutes every day.
A number of recent scientific studies show that a daily small glass of 100% orange juice can help in many ways that we would never previously have thought. According to the research, a small glass of orange juice every day may have a positive effect on obesity, and Flourish Issue 3
may even increase cognitive function in older people3. The elderly are not the only ones who benefit from orange juice, though; there is evidence which proves that 100% orange juice can improve the diets of children and younger adults also3. Orange juice is often lumped into the same bracket as fizzy drinks, but despite what many of us may think, the research proves that drinking 100% orange juice does not have any associated weight gain. In fact, the research goes so far to say that it “does not appear to negatively impact body weight or body composition in children and adults”4. These days there is more emphasis on eating well and enjoying a healthy lifestyle than ever before. All of us understand the importance of a balanced diet, but that doesn’t make it any easier for us to get the nutrition we need at those times when other factors get in the way. With the weight of science and research building, maybe it’s time we started thinking of a glass of orange juice as more than just something reserved for the breakfast table.
100% orange juice has been on our supermarket shelves for decades but it’s only now that we are realizing that as well as being a rich source of vitamin C and nutrients, it offers much more. Perhaps most importantly though, it can also be a key ingredient towards getting our ‘seven a day’ and enjoying a balanced diet – in spite of all the pressures of daily life. About Dr Mary McCreery
Dr Mary McCreery, Ph.D. Dip Nutr & Diet; Dip Counselling; MIND, is a Consultant Clinical Nutritionist and Dietician at the Blackrock Clinic with extensive experience in Dietetics and Nutrition in both adults and adolescents. Mary is Ireland’s leading Dietetic Specialist in Eating Disorders and is a member of the Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute. She is also a qualified Counsellor. About Fruit Juice Matters
Fruit Juice Matters is a pan-European communications programme from AIJN (European Fruit Juice Association), sharing credible and balanced research about the health benefits of fruit juice. For further information, please visit: https://fruitjuicematters.eu/en/ about-fruit-juice-matters. 1. European Fresh Produce Association, Freshfel. New Freshfel consumption monitor shows slight recovery in consumption, although overall trend remains downward. June 10 2015. News Release. Page 1 of 2. 2. Press Release: “Minister Marcella Corcoran Kennedy launches the second Healthy Ireland Survey of the nation’s health,” (2016). Department of Health. 3. Commission Regulation (EU) 432/2012 of 16/05/2012 4. Rampersaud & Valim. 100% Citrus juice: nutritional contribution, dietary benefits, and association with anthropometric measures. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition. 2015.
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The biggest Big Knit yet – we’re woolly excited
C
alling all knitters: The Big Knit is back and innocent need(le) your help. This year, innocent drinks have set their sights on making it the biggest Big Knit yet.
With your help, they’re aiming to get 100,000 knitted hats on to the tops of their little smoothie bottles. And for every one sold, 30c will go to Age Action, helping older people stay warm and well in winter through their Care & Repair programme. To help innocent drinks reach this woolly big goal, they need the help of knitters everywhere (that’s you). Whether you‘re learning to cast on or already clacking up a storm, innocent Drinks would love your help in making this a year for the record books. You can knit as many or as few as you like - every hat counts towards making a big difference.
To find out more about how to join in, visit www.thebigknit.ie. Please send in your hats in by 31 July 2017 and keep your eyes peeled for smoothies wearing little hats in stores from October 2017. Put all your hats in an envelope along with a note clearly stating: • how many you’ve knitted • the date • your name and address Then send them all through to: The Big Knit 2017, innocent Drinks, Fruit Towers, 2 Ballsbridge Park, Dublin 4. If you’ve got any questions, tips or woolrelated gossip, drop innocent Drinks a line at howaya@innocentdrinks.ie or give them a call on 01 6644100.
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Flourish Issue 3
wanted We need your little knitted hats. Back in 2008 we had an idea. We asked some older people, and some younger people, to knit little woolly hats. We put those hats on our smoothies, and, for each one sold, we made a donation to Age Action. This year, we’re hoping to put more hats on our bottles than ever before. Which is why we need you.
we
nee d little 100,00 hats 0
We’re calling all knitters, crafters and creators to help us make this year’s Big Knit the biggest Big Knit yet. For more information on how to get involved and plenty of easy-to-follow designs, please visit www.thebigknit.ie
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Taking care of your feet T
he average person walks over 5,000 steps every day. This is why it is important to maintain and look after your feet. Your feet are the foundation of your body; healthy feet mean a better overall health!
There are quick and easy ways to maintain and monitor your feet each day to ensure that you stay on top of your foot health. An important thing many people overlook is to dry between the toes after bathing. Water won’t dry by itself between the digits, which can lead to a breeding ground for athlete’s foot, which is a fungus that causes itching and pain.
Moisturise After drying the feet, it is important to moisturise. For normal skin types, a water based emollient such as E45, which can be found in most supermarkets and pharmacies, is ideal. For drier skin types an urea based cream is perfect to provide the skin with a more intensive hydration. It is important to put the cream between the toes. Hydrated skin means less chance of cracking and pain of the skin. 8
Nailcare Clipping your nails regularly prevents nail conditions, which can cause pain and discomfort. Keep your toe nails short to avoid complications. However, it is often difficult to reach the feet to cut the nails, and sometimes it can be dangerous to attempt. Asking someone you know and feel comfortable with, to cut your nails for you can be useful. If not, there are many chiropody and podiatry clinics that can assist with this. Between visits you can use an emery board to keep the nails shorter, and blunt, without having to put yourself at risk.
Flourish Issue 3
Corns and Calluses Corns and Calluses are extremely common. Often if they are not causing any pain, they can be left alone. However, in some cases, they can be excruciating. Podiatrists would not recommend using over the counter Good corn plasters and Footwear products like Shoes are one of this as they can the most important cause adverse things to ensure a effects. A visit healthy foot. Shoes to a chiropodist that are wide, have or podiatrist is room for the toes, have recommended in this a thicker sole, and that case, as they can safely tie up are ideal. Shoes that are too tight, debride corns and or slip on shoes, can lead to changes in calluses. bone structure, causing conditions like bunions, and even hurt the feet when walking.
Daily Footcare It is useful to get into the habit of checking your feet every day. This means just examining the feet quickly for any marks, hard skin, or breaks in the skin. If you find it difficult to reach down and look at the sole of your foot, you can simply place a mirror under a chair and slide it out under you when you want to look at your soles. If there are any breaks in the skin, it is important to dress the wound, as a break in the skin is a portal for infection. Sliding your hand into your shoes each day is helpful also, just in case something has slipped into them without you noticing. At night, boiling water in hot water bottles should be avoided. Many people use hot water
bottles for their feet in bed, but make sure that you only use lukewarm to warm water, as they can easily cause burns while you sleep if they are too hot. If you have any specific pains in your feet, it would be worth going to a podiatrist to see if it is a biomechanical issue, because often most chronic internal foot pain can be solved with a simple insole. You shouldn’t suffer through foot pain if it can be fixed! These tips are especially relevant to those with diabetes, or vascular issues, as these conditions can degrade foot health. It is easier to prevent foot issues than fix ones that have already occurred. 9
What does your pain feel like? R
esearch from the ‘mypainfeelslike…’ campaign found that over half of people living with chronic pain in Ireland feel frustrated when trying to describe their pain.1 This contributes to 26 percent delaying discussing their pain with their doctor.1
The new ‘mypainfeelslike...’ questionnaire – available at mypainfeelslike.ie – has been developed as a tool to enable communication between patients and healthcare professionals. The impact of not adequately managing pain manifests itself in many ways with loss of work and the ability to exercise or socialise being significantly diminished. 73 percent of people surveyed say their pain has a negative impact on their ability to exercise, 45 percent say that it affects their social life and nearly half have missed up to a week of work in the last year.1 To help people explain their pain and receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment, the ‘mypainfeelslike...’ campaign has also developed a series of images, with artist David Schwen, that visually interpret pain symptoms such as, burning, stabbing and crawling under the skin. “Persistent pain is now considered to be a disease entity in its own right. Early assessment is essential in devising a strategy 10
to help chronic pain sufferers” according to Dr Paul Murphy, Pain Consultant at St Vincent’s Hospital, Dublin. “Currently many chronic pain patients do not talk about their pain and find it difficult to describe their symptoms, which has a negative impact on their care. The ‘mypainfeelslike...’ questionnaire will help patients describe their pain when talking to their doctors, which will ultimately improve their quality of care”. Broadcaster Ivan Yates describes his pain experience “my lower back pain started in 2003 while driving around the country. The pain started off as localised, a kind of stabbing feeling in my lower back. Soon it spread down my leg, which led to me using crutches as I was unable to walk”, “I was in bad way and it kept deteriorating over the years. In 2011 I underwent spinal fusion surgery, unfortunately this hasn’t worked as I still have pain every day. But you learn to live with it. Sitting is a big aggravator so I have no shame in standing, kneeling or lying on the floor while on the radio, at events or wherever Flourish Issue 3
“Living with chronic or nerve pain affects people’s well-being, their ability to be independent, their productivity and relationships, which can lead to feelings of depression” commented John Lindsay, It is estimated Chairperson, that approximately Chronic Pain 1.65 million Ireland. “The people in Ireland ‘mypainfeelslike…’ have pain2, with 21 campaign will help raise awareness percent living with Pain can be difficult to describe. Don’t suffer in silence. of the impact of pain for 10 years Use the visuals above to help explain your pain to your GP today. chronic pain and or more1. Chronic give people living pain is pain or with this disease discomfort that mypainfeelslike.ie the tools to troubles a person re-evaluate their pain management plans”. all of the time or on and offChronic for more than Pain Ireland by a condition three months.3 It can be caused (e.g. arthritis, fibromyalgia), an isolated event About the ‘mypainfeelslike…’ Campaign (e.g. injury, infection), or a non-traceable This national campaign aims to raise occurrence.4 While acute pain is short term awareness of pain and support patients when communicating with healthcare professionals. and it resolves with healing of the underlying For more information go to mypainfeelslike.ie. injury, chronic pain is often described as persistent pain that disrupts sleep and normal The campaign is a collaboration between living and serves no protective function and Grünenthal Pharma Ltd and Chronic Pain degrades health and functional capability.5 Neuropathic or nerve pain is caused by damage Ireland and supported by Multiple Sclerosis Ireland and The Parkinson’s Association of to or dysfunction of the nerves, spinal cord, or Ireland. brain. Typical effects are felt as a burning or tingling type of pain.6 PAIN® ICY COLD
PAIN® NERVE PINCH
PAIN® CRAWLING
PAIN® STABBING
PAIN® HOT IRON
PAIN® TINGLING
PAIN® ELECTRIC SHOCK
PAIN® PINS & NEEDLES
PAIN® SHARP SPASM
PAIN® PIERCING
PAIN® BARBED WIRE
PAIN® BURNING
March 2016, IRE/G16 0005f
– it has to be done! I encourage anyone out there suffering from pain to log on to mypainfeelslike. ie to get more information and take the pain questionnaire to help them describe their pain”.
What does your pain feel like?
BRANDING CONCEPT Chronic Pain Ireland
For more information:
References 1. Survey by Empathy Research on behalf of Grunenthal based on 501 Irish sufferers of chronic pain aged 18+ in January 2016. 2. Raftery et al. Chronic pain in the Republic of Ireland––Community prevalence, psychosocial profile and predictors of pain-related disability: results from the Prevalence, Impact and Cost of Chronic Pain (PRIME) study, part 1. Pain.2011;152:1096–1103. 3. Bridges S. (2012) Health Survey for England 2011: Chronic pain (Chapter 9, pp291–323). Health and Social Care Information Centre. Available at: www.hscic.gov.uk/catalogue/PUB09300/HSE2011-All-Chapters.pdf (last accessed February 2016). 4. Chronic Pain Policy Coalition. The Hidden Suffering of Chronic Pain. Available at http://www.policyconnect.org.uk/cppc/sites/site_cppc/files/ report/454/fieldreportdownload/cppcthehiddensufferingofchronicpainnov2015.pdf (Last accessed, February 2016) 5. Berry, P. Pain: Understanding of Assessment, Management and Treatments. American Pain Society. 6. Merck Manuals. 2011 Types of Pain. Neuropathic Pain.
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T
here are a number of factors that can contribute to a fall including your vision, balance, medication, environment and bone health.
Vision
Lighting
It is important to get regular check ups and eye tests so you become aware of any changes in your vision. Distorted or wavy vision, which can occur with aging, could be responsible for you having an accident.
Balance
• Use nightlights for bedroom, bathrooms and hallways. • Make sure to store flashlights in different locations upstairs and downstairs in case of power cuts.
Assistance
If you have any concerns about falling or • Use handrails for the stairs, shower and bath. dizziness pay a visit to your GP. Have your ears • Use nonslip mats for the bathroom, kitchen checked as imbalance may be caused by an and porch, all of which can become extremely inner ear problem. dangerous when wet. • If you are regularly worried about falling then consider using a walking aid. Medication Be familiar with the possible side effects of your Bone Health medication. Some Strong bones are essential to help prescription and over prevent falls. Vitamin D helps the counter medications build strong bones by increasing can cause dizziness or the absorption of calcium. Older drowsiness, which can people can be at an increased risk lead to a fall. of developing a vitamin D deficiency, which can have a major impact on bone health and increase the risk of falls. Environment The best way to prevent falls is to Vitamin D can be obtained through sunlight keep your home tidy. and can be found in foods such as oily fish, egg • Store boxes away safely and hide any yolks and fortified cereals such as bran flakes. electrical cords. It is difficult to get sufficient levels of vitamin • Move coffee tables to safe locations. • Secure rugs and mats with double-sided tape. D so it is recommended to take a vitamin D supplement to assist with the growth and • As you get older it is wise to store clothing, maintenance of strong and healthy bones. dishes and food within easy reach.
Remember prevention is better than a cure!
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Homecare Medical: Aids to make life easier Elite Traveller Scooter The Go-GoÂŽ Elite Traveller Plus offers style and performance for your on-the-go lifestyle. Standard features include a delta tiller with wraparound handles, feather-touch disassembly, black, non-scuffing tyres, front basket and an 18 AH battery pack.
4 Wheel Rollator Built to perform well outdoors, it folds easily for storage and has anatomical handle grips for extra comfort. It has height adjustable handles from 710 - 980mm and a crutch and cane holder plus a spacious basket. It also comes with a 2 Year Warranty.
Dementia Talking Big Digit Watch A stylish digital watch with oversize LCD digital display. The clear voice announcement of time and date assists the visually impaired.
Dementia Reusable Self-adhesive Signs & Labels. This product is a simple, effective way to help ease a problem and maintain dignity. If family or friends are visiting, the last thing they may want is to highlight their personal difficulties, so the signs and labels can be removed and replaced when needed.
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Flourish Issue 3
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Aids To Daily Living | Mobility Products Patient Handling | Specialist Footwear | Incontinence Wear Bathroom & Toilet Aids | Pressure Relief Products Bedroom & Nursing Aids | Stairlifts & Chairs
www.HomecareMedical.ie Low Call: 1890 989 130 Shop online Shop by phone Shop in-store 15 | Ballina | Castlebar | SligoStore Ballyhaunis Visit www.homecaremedical.ie to Find| Galway Your Nearest
Managing Arthritis N
early 1 million people in Ireland are living with arthritis. Arthritis is painful inflammation and stiffness of the joints, ranging from mild to severe. Arthritis does not discriminate. It is a disease that can affect anyone from the newborn right through to the elderly.
The perception that “I can’t do anything about my disease” is not true. Arthritis can change your life. But, there’s a whole lot you can do about it, too. After finding what type of arthritis you have, the key is managing the disease. Working with your multidisciplinary team of physicians, therapists and specialist nurses, you can develop a program of medication and lifestyle adaptations that works for you.
Excess body weight can increase wear and tear on weight-bearing joints such as your knees, feet and hips. This raises your chances of developing osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis. Being overweight can also increase your risk of other types of arthritis. Losing even a small amount of weight can reduce stress on the joints and help you avoid surgery.
Moving truly is the best medicine
You CAN and should exercise with arthritis. Some of the most common myths in relation to arthritis are that 1) exercise will increase pain and 2) exercise will make my arthritis worse and damage my joints. Physical activity is proven to be an important part of managing your arthritis. As well as reducing the pain and inflammation of arthritis, being active and exercising regularly improves joint support and lubrication, helps with weight control and has many other health benefits, including lowering blood pressure and stroke risk. Moving truly is the best medicine. 16
Arthritis Ireland is dedicated to working with people with arthritis. They run programmes such as “Living Well with Arthritis” courses, “Breaking the Pain Cycle” and “Fit for Work” programmes. New online courses are also being launched later in the year. Arthritis Ireland also runs a Helpline (Locall 1890 252 846), a confidential service that can provide you with support on a whole range of issues.
For further information please contact: Arthritis Ireland Helpline: 1890 252 846 Phone: 01 6618188 Website: www.arthritisireland.ie Email: helpline@arthritisireland.ie Flourish Issue 3
Get Moving
to add life to your years
A
recent study conducted by the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists found an alarming number of the over 50’s are not exercising enough despite knowing that it’s recommended to take 30 minutes of brisk exercise 5 times a week.
The Top Three reasons for not exercising were: • Don’t like exercising. • Injuries or health problems, e.g. arthritis, back problems, poor mobility, blood pressure and knee pain. • Don’t have enough time. So instead many sit down for at least 7 hours a day, 4 of which are in the evenings.
How does this effect health and the quality of life? • Weakens muscles and stiffens joints, which can lead to a higher risk of falls. • Increases risk of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart and circulatory diseases. • These can lead to longer hospital stays, more GP visits and thus poorer quality of life. So why not Get Moving?
Here are a few ideas to prevent falls: Get up from the chair regularly in the evenings, but do simple chair exercises to loosen up before you stand up. For example: • Toe & heel taps 5 times each foot. • Straighten out knees one at a time, 5 times each leg. • Gently march your knees up and down for 15 seconds before you stand up. • Practice getting up safely from the chair.
If you can’t exercise: • Use the hoovering and household chores like washing the windows or the car as an exercise; they help strengthen your muscles. • Take up gardening, it gets you lifting and carrying, and it uses leg muscles to get up and down from kneeling. Do remember that many types of pain can be eased, look up www.findaphysio.ie to find your local Chartered Physiotherapist. For more information www.icsp.ie 17
r e m Sum Days Out I
reland has spectacular scenery, breathtaking views and magnificent coastline. Why not make the most of it? Check local tourist offices or local clubs for information on what Ireland has to offer and what’s to see and do. Many parks, gardens, castles and museums offer discounted rates to seniors. Look out for festivals, fairs and shows. Here is a taste of what’s happening in 2017:
Tattersalls International Horse Trials and Country Fair in Ratoath in Co. Meath offers all things equestrian along with family fun and entertainment. The country fair runs on the June Bank Holiday weekend 02 - 04 June 2017, with over 50 stands exhibiting everything from crafts to clothes to food. With plenty of hospitality areas and food outlets it has something for everyone. www.tattshorsetrials.ie
Bloom is the place to go if gardening and
flowers take your fancy. Held every June Bank Holiday weekend, this year from 01 - 05 June 2017, Bloom is Ireland’s largest gardening, horticulture, food and family festival. It happens in the Phoenix Park and is organised by Bord Bia–the Irish food and horticulture state agency. www.bloominthepark.com For all the golfing enthusiasts the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open will take place at Portstewart Golf Club from 06-09 July 2017. Enjoy the golf and explore some of the Antrim coastline. The famous Giants Causeway is only 25 minutes away from Portstewart. www.dubaidutyfreeirishopen.com 18
Also in July the annual Galway Races Summer Festival takes place from 31 July - 06 August 2017. The racing festival runs for seven days and highlights include ‘Ladies Day’ and ‘The Mad Hatters’ competition. www.galwayraces.com
Dublin Horse Show takes place from
09-13 August 2017. National and international show jumping competitions, shopping, food, music and daily entertainment for all ages. Each year during the Dublin Horse Show an exhibition of crafts takes place in the RDS Concert Hall. Everything from wood turning to jewellery making is showcased and craft demonstrations also take place. www.dublinhorseshow.com
Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann–is
a famous traditional music event hosted by Ennis two years in a row, 2016 and 2017. Participants compete against fellow musicians, singers and dancers to achieve the recognition of being an All-Ireland champion. The festival offers a wide range of activities to be enjoyed by all and weeklong celebrations this year from 13-21 August 2017. www.fleadhcheoil.ie Flourish Issue 3
Escorted tours/Excursions A great way to see what Ireland has on offer is to take a guided tour or excursion. There are a multitude of tours on offer operating throughout the year from the bigger towns and cities. The tour guides are friendly and knowledgeable and will endeavour to give you a fun day out. Tours operate to the natural attractions, historical sites and castles.
The Cliffs of Moher stretch for
8 kilometres along the Atlantic coast and are 214 m at their highest point. On a clear day it’s possible to see the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, Dingle Peninsula and the Blasket Islands. There are over 600 metres of pathways and viewing platforms along the cliff edge, which allow the visitor to enjoy a spectacular and healthy cliff walk. Admission rates apply. Visit the visitor centre, the on-site cafes and the gift & souvenir shop. www.cliffsofmoher.ie
opened near the site in 2012 offering a further glimpse into the wonder that is the Giants Causeway. Explore way-marked trails and enjoy spectacular coastal scenery accompanied by innovative outdoor audio-guides and orientation information. Café and gift shop on-site. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/giantscauseway
Wicklow – the garden
of Ireland offering so much to see and do is home to Powerscourt House and Gardens and Glendalough as well as beautiful beaches and the largest national park in Ireland. www.powerscourt.com, www.glendalough.ie
The Giants Causeway–a geological wonder with over 40,000 interlocking basalt columns has stood for millions of years on the beautiful Antrim coast. A visitor centre
Connemara National Park with its
rugged beauty, breathtaking views, mountains, lakes and the wild Atlantic way coastline. The park covers over 2,700 hectares of bogs, heaths, grasslands and woodlands. Park facilities include a 3-D exhibition, Diamond Hill walks, AV Theatre, playground, tearooms, picnic area and toilets. www.connemaranationalpark.ie 19
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Bestue Vuaarlanteed
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Flourish Issue 3
Travel Tips
Travel is arguably one of the most exciting experiences in life. You don’t have to stop traveling just because you’re getting older. If anything, it’s when you are older that travel means more as a lifetime of knowledge allows you to fully appreciate the new experiences you’re having. Prepare well before you go in order to protect your health and belongings to ensure you enjoy the trip.
When to Go: If you’re retired and can travel
Luggage: Pack light and aim to have everything necessary in a roll-aboard suitcase. Stay Healthy and Watch What You Eat: See your doctor prior to your trip to obtain any relevant vaccinations you might need and extra medication you may require. Be sensible if you’re on a restricted diet. It’s understandable to want to forget this while away from home, but doing so could have undesirable side effects. Enjoy the local cuisine but don’t allow unnecessary sickness to spoil an otherwise enjoyable holiday.
whenever you want, it’s smart to aim for the times in between the quiet and busy season (April to mid-June, or September and October). Safety and security: It is always advisable This allows you to avoid the most exhausting to use the safe if there is one available in your things about travel: crowds and the heat of room or to use the safety deposit boxes at summer. reception. There’s usually a deposit and small fee for these but they do provide added security. Travel Insurance: We all like to imagine our trips will be smooth sailing but Keep others informed of your daily itinerary unfortunately sometimes situations arise that including your hotel concierge. Tell them are out of our control. Always purchase travel insurance as soon as you where you’re going and when you expect to be back. Keep a mobile phone with you at all book your holiday so you’re covered if you have times. to cancel or postpone the trip.
Be prepared: Documentation: Ensure your passport is in date well in advance of the trip. Have more than one copy of travel documentation such as boarding pass and accommodation booking confirmation.
Seniors Discounts: Always ask about discounts, even if you don’t see information about one — you may be pleasantly surprised. Final tip:
Have Fun!
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OVER 50’s Holidays H
aving something to look forward to, such as a holiday is so exciting. Retirement offers the opportunity to do the travelling you always wanted to do. There’s a whole world of possibilities. This is your chance to get away and enjoy life on a solo trip, with your partner or with family and friends.
Travel agencies offer great discounts and deals for seniors. You also get to choose how long you wish to travel for. Weekend breaks offer you the chance to experience the culture, the museums and the culinary delights of so many cities from Madrid to London to Prague. Make a plan and check suitable dates and convenient locations. Where possible eliminate travel time by choosing the most convenient airport/ferry port to you. Look for locations at your destination that are also within easy access of the airports, larger towns and attractions. Over eager itineraries can be off putting so make the most of your holiday in an enjoyable and relaxing way. Make plans that can be changed but note that museums or other attractions may require pre-booking. How about travelling with the absence of a plan? Let the holiday be one of relaxation. Sometimes just sitting outside a lovely café on a quaint little street and watching the world go by can be the best form of relaxation. There are so many holiday options to choose from–the beaches of southern Spain, the northern lights in Iceland or the art and history of Italy. 22
Escorted holidays offer full programmes of excursions, transfers and day trips. Escorted holidays can be a great way of meeting new people and you have the added security of travelling with a guide. Dining options on escorted tours can vary from B&B options to full board. Most people think of cruises as the holiday option for the older holidaymaker. They can be more expensive but they offer value for money in the long run. Multiple destinations, food, accommodation, entertainment and transfers are usually included in the price. Most cruisers sail at night and dock during the day. Excursions are available at an extra cost but are not obligatory. You can spend the days on the ship, which has plenty of activities and facilities on board or go ashore and see new sights. Going on a cruise is probably one of the easiest holidays to plan. You choose the cruise you would like to do. Everything else is already taken care of – the food, the accommodation and the entertainment. For more information visit: www.clickandgo.com www.seniorsun.ie www.travelrepublic.ie www.traveldepartment.ie Flourish Issue 3
Style at any age S
tyle is ageless and can be achieved with any budget. There is so much choice available from small boutiques and high street shops to on-line shopping. Wear clothes to compliment your shape. The most common shapes for women are Hourglass, Pear, Apple and Rectangle. Hourglass figures have defined waists and should wear defined-waistline clothes, straight and flared trousers & skirts, trench coats with belts. Pear shaped and apple shaped figures should wear accessories to draw attention to upper body, jewellery, scarves and medium necklines. Rectangular shaped figures have a straight body shape so layering can add dimension.
All shapes should try to avoid, clingy or bulky fabrics and baggy clothes. For a classic and slimming look wear one colour. Experiment with textures of the same color to enhance the outfit. Featured are some pieces from the 2017 Caroline Kilkenny collection, the focus is on fabrics; looking at texture, color and performance. Elegance and femininity is the achieved look, which is both modern and fresh. Caroline Kilkenny stockists include Arnotts, The Design Centre in Powerscourt Townhouse Centre and Regis Boutique Galway.
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Are you undergoing chemotherapy treatment? We may be able to help you! • Are you having trouble getting to and from the hospital for your treatment appointments? • Is travel a financial burden for you? • Are your family and friends working and not able to give you a lift?
Speak to any member of your treatment team or to the Oncology Social Worker. Alternatively, please ring us on 01 231 0522 or email us on transport@irishcancer.ie
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Flourish Issue 3
Keeping Fit Past 50 T
here are many reasons why we tend to slow down and become more sedentary with age. It may be due to health problems, weight or pain issues, or worries about falling. Or perhaps you think that exercising simply isn’t for you.
But as you grow older, an active lifestyle becomes more important than ever to your health. Over two-thirds of Irish over-fifties are overweight, so this is a problem that, like our waistbands, is growing bigger and more worrying. Getting moving can help boost your energy, maintain your independence, protect your heart, and manage symptoms of illness or pain as well as your weight. Regular exercise is good for your mind, mood, and memory. No matter your age or your current physical condition, it pays to become more active and improve your health and outlook.
30
minutes a day
If people make a simple, positive change to their lifestyles by taking the stairs, parking a little further away from the shops, or even by
walking on the spot while talking on the phone or watching television, then they will feel better, enjoy a better quality of life and live longer. Just 150 minutes each week, or 30 minutes a day for five days, of moderate exercise is enough to help prevent future physical and mental health problems. A recent Swedish study found that physical activity was the number one contributor to longevity, adding extra years to your life—even if you don’t start exercising until your senior years. But it’s not just about adding years to your life it’s about adding life to your years. You’ll not only look better to keep when you exercise, you’ll feel the blues sharper, more energetic, and experience a greater sense of away well-being. So will you commit to 30 minutes a day, to keep the blues away?
Active Retirement Ireland is Ireland’s largest community-based older people’s organisation, comprising over 550 groups nationwide. Find out how to join the Active Retirement Experience by calling 01-8733836 or visit www.activeirl.ie 25
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Summer Recipes
asty pear and beetroot salad with scrumptious plum cake for dessert
Pear and Beetroot Salad
Preparation time: 15 minutes, plus cooling Cooking time: 35-45 minutes Serves: 4
• • • • • • • • •
Ingredients
2 medium beetroots, scrubbed, trimmed 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 tbsp coriander seeds 1 tbsp red wine vinegar 1 clove garlic, crushed 1 tsp Dijon mustard 150g lentils 1 ripe pear, cored and cubed 100g salad leaves
Method
Preheat the oven to 200°C, gas mark 6. Place the beetroot in a roasting tin. Toss with 1 tbsp of the oil and the coriander seeds, then roast for about 35-45 minutes until tender. In a large bowl, whisk together the remaining oil, vinegar, garlic, mustard and seasoning. Meanwhile, place the lentils in a pan and cover with cold water. Bring to the boil then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes until tender. Drain thoroughly, then add to the dressing and toss together. Remove the beetroot from the oven and cut into chunks. Add to the lentils and leave to cool. Add the pear and salad leaves and toss to combine.
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Flourish Issue 3
TOP Corian TIP: cinnam der and in thes on (found are bot e recipes) h reducin great for g sugar l blood evels’
Plum Cake Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 35-40 minutes Serves: 4 Ingredients
• 180g plain flour • 180g caster sugar • 180g butter • 3 eggs • 1 tsp baking powder • Drop of vanilla extract • 8 plums (halved) • 2 tbsp caster sugar and 1 tsp ground cinnamon mixed • Optional to finish: melted apricot jam to glaze finished cake, or you can drizzle with an icing sugar and water icing.
Method
Preheat oven to 180°C, gas mark 4 Grease a 9-inch deep dish with butter. In a stand mixer (or use a bowl and hand mixer) combine sifted flour, baking powder, sugar, butter, eggs and a drop of vanilla extract. Mix until a smooth cake batter is formed. Pour the batter carefully into the dish and gently press the plums, cut side down, into the top. Sprinkle on 2 tbsp of the cinnamon sugar mix. Bake in the pre-heated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the centre of the cake. Serve warm with custard or ice cream.
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Competition Time W
in a 2 night mid week 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 and stay at the superior 4HHHH 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! In which county is Athlone? a. Co. Clare b. Co. Westmeath c. Co. Sligo 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 September 30th 2017
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Flourish Issue 3
D 2 , B 2B+
9pps 2 1 €
from
T&C’s Apply
Sheraton breaks 2 Nights B&B & 2 Dinners from €129pps
Our packages include sumptuous dinners, award winning breakfast and free in house activities.
090 64 51000 l sheratonathlonehotel.com29
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Call us on 1800 250 204 or email: warmerhomes@seai.ie