Our Time

Our Time

A Special Supplement to the

May 2010

2 — MAY 2010

OUR TIME

JOURNAL GAZETTE & TIMES-COURIER

Article Index

Common Discounts Available to Seniors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Helping Elderly Parents Or Relatives From Afar . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Myths Associated with Hearing Loss and Treatment . . . . . . . . . . .3 Eating Healthier as You Get Older . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Cooking for One . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Don’t Succumb to Stress After Retirement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Eliminate the Empty Nest Blues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Live Life to the Fullest by Addressing Urinary Incontinence . . . . .6 Making Friends After Retirement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 How to Manage Medication Safely . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Helping a Parent After the Loss of a Spouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Job Opportunities Abound for Seniors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Seniors Can Prevent Falls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Seniors Can Enjoy Summertime Safely . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Did You Know? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Helping Seniors Cope with Recession-Related Financial Loss . . .11 Senior Dating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 100 Broadway Ave • Mattoon, IL 61938 (217) 235-5656

Publisher: Carl Walworth • Advertising Director:Tammy Jordan Connie Anderson, Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .238-6828 Shannon Davis, Senior Sales Consultant, Mattoon . . . . . . . . . . . .238-6831 Brad Harren, Charleston/Arcola . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .238-6834 John Leonard, Mattoon/Arthur/Effingham . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .238-6838 Patti Lewis, Auto & Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .238-6832 Melody Parks, Mattoon/Sullivan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .238-6837 Graphics: Tara D’Arcy, Brian Miller, Michelle Rappuhn & Susan Young Advertising: To place a display advertisement, call (217) 238-6835 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays or email advertising@jg-tc.com To place classified advertising, call 238-6828 or 345-7085 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays.

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(MS) - Today's seniors might cringe at the escalating costs of necessities such as prescription medication and even higher utility bills, and understandably so.

However, savvy seniors can save by taking advantage of a host of discounts exclusive to those over the age of 65. * Travel perks. Many seniors love to travel, and can even do so at heavily discounted prices.

Larger hotel chains often offer seniors discounts as high as 10 percent. Unfortunately, many U.S. domestic airlines, facing higher fuel prices and dwindling business due to the global economic downturn, ceased offering senior discounts in 2009. However, certain airlines, including Southwest Airlines, still offer discounted rates to seniors.

These discounts can be as much as 10 percent. It's also common for car rental agencies to offer senior discounts. * Transportation. Many communities provide heavily discounted, if not free, rates to seniors for public transportation. Consult with your local government to

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determine if you qualify for senior discounts. * Food. Grocery stores commonly offer discounts to older customers, and many times you don't even need to be a senior citizen to qualify. In general, chains offer senior discounts, including special days for seniors to shop, to anyone over the age of 55.

Restaurants are also known to offer senior discounts, and often these discounts extend beyond "early bird special" discounts of yesteryear. While early bird specials still exist, many chain restaurants offer discounted prices to seniors regardless of time of day. In many cases, these discounts aren't listed on the menu, but it never hurts, and typically saves, to ask. * Arts and culture. Seniors looking to spend a day or night on the town and take in some culture can typically do so at a discounted rate. Museums and National Parks typically offer discounted admission to seniors, as do movie theaters and even some concert halls.

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JOURNAL GAZETTE & TIMES-COURIER

MAY 2010 — 3

Helping Elderly Parents Myths Associated with Or Relatives From Afar Hearing Loss and Treatment (MS) - Hearing is something many people take for granted.

While it's certainly possible to a lifetime without so much as a single hearing problem, nearly anyone who has ever been to a musical concert has no doubt considered the possibility of hearing loss, be it temporary or permanent. Just as common as the consideration of hearing loss are the myths associated with hearing loss and treatment. The Better Hearing Institute (BHI), a notfor-profit corporation with a goal of educating the public about hearing loss and what can be done about, breaks some of those myths.

(MS) - Today's families are more geographically diverse than ever before. Whereas it was once common for families to remain in the same city or state for generations, nowadays families routinely spread out across the country if not the world. Thanks to technological advancements that make it easier than ever before to stay in touch, families today can still thrive and stay close even if they live hundreds, if not thousands, of miles away from one another.

One issue facing many families that have chosen to spread out is how to help Mom and Dad when they reach the age where they need their adult childrens' help. While this wasn't a problem for the families of yesteryear, it is a genuine concern for adults who live far away from their parents.

Fortunately there are ways to be there for your elderly parents even when you can't physically be there for them. * Speak to your parents about what they need. While some parents might not be able to realistically assess their needs, children should speak to their parents when making decisions about their care. Adults who live far away from their parents might not know exactly what Mom and Dad need, so discuss the problems they might be having on a day-to-basis to determine the level of care or assistance they will need. * Examine finances. Managing money is often difficult for seniors who have had an accident or are dealing with a serious medical condition. Seniors might forget to pay bills or be struggling to manage money with the escalating costs of prescription medica-

tions and health care in general.

To help avoid missed bills, adult children can utilize online bill paying offered by many banks, wherein bills are automatically paid each month on their due date by simply being deducted from a given account. Adult children can also consult a financial advisor to develop a plan that allows seniors access to their money while ensuring it will still be there when they need it. * Research community resources.

Many communities provide adequate resources for the elderly who might be incapacitated or otherwise need assistance. Programs such as Meals on Wheels can be a great assistance to longdistance caregivers concerned about their elderly parents. Residents of the United States can consult with the Department of Health and Human Services or visit www.Eldercare.gov and use their eldercare locator to find local agencies designed to help older persons and their families access community-based services including transportation, meal delivery and homecare. * Stay in touch with seniors' physicians. One way to monitor elderly parents from far away is to keep in frequent contact with their physicians. Discuss the situation with your parents' physicians in person, and ask to be kept abreast of any changes in their health that might require altering their daily routines or homecare schedules.

For additional tips or information on helping elderly parents from afar, visit the U.S. Administration on Aging Web site at www.aoa.gov.

* Minor surgery can fix my hearing. Though medical treatment or surgery can benefit hearing loss, only 5-10 percent of adult cases of hearing loss can benefit from surgery or other treatment. * I have one good ear and one bad ear. When one ear is bad, the natural tendency is to begin favoring

the other ear when using the telephone or having face-to-face conversations. This creates the illusion that the so-called "better ear" is normal when it really isn't. In fact, according to the BHI, most types of hearing loss affects both ears equally and roughly 90 percent of hearing loss patients are in need of hearing aids for both ears.

* Hearing loss is for the elderly.

Arguably the most common misconception about hearing loss, this is also entirely untrue. In fact, only 35 percent of people with hearing loss are over the age of 64. Nearly 6 million people in the United States alone between the ages of 18 and 44 have some hearing loss, and more than one million are school age. * My doctor would have told me if I had hearing loss. According to the BHI, only 14 percent of physicians routinely screen for hearing loss during a physical. Due to the quiet nature of a doctor's office,

it's easy for the physician to assume your hearing is fine because the environment is quiet and you likely are not exhibiting any symptoms of hearing loss.

When visiting the doctor for your next physical, ask him to look for any signs of hearing loss during the physical.

* Hearing loss is normal for my age. Hearing loss isn't normal for anyone, no matter what a friend, relative or even physician might say. * Hearing loss is untreatable.

Hearing loss might have been untreatable years ago, but technology has changed that. Though surgery might not be the answer, the BHI notes that 95 percent of people with sensorineural hearing loss can be helped with hearing aids.

To learn more about hearing loss and hearing loss treatment, visit the Better Hearing Institute Web site at www.betterhearing.org.

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4 — MAY 2010

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Eating Healthier as You Get Older

(MS) -Though even the President of the United States' wife is publicly taking America's obesity epidemic to task, more and more people in America and across the globe are trying to tackle their weight problems and eat healthier. Because kids are naturally more physically active than their adult counterparts, it can be easier for the younger crowd to get healthier.

For seniors, who no longer have rapid metabolisms, losing weight or keeping pounds off is far more difficult. Because even the most active senior is limited in what he or she can handle with respect to physical activity, a greater emphasis must be placed on eating healthy the older a person gets.

Fortunately, there are many ways for seniors to eat healthi-

er without making drastic changes to their lifestyles.

Don't Forget Fluids Be it seniors, young adults or even kids, water is an essential part of a healthy diet. For years, the medical profession has said eight cups per day is what the average adult needs to keep his or her body working properly. Eight cups per day

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should help avoid dehydration, the side effects of which include dry skin, elevated heart rate, lack of energy, and weakness.

One area seniors should be extra careful regards their caffeine intake. Caffeine can make the body lose water, so seniors who still enjoy caffeinated coffee or the occasional soda should be aware that it might be costing them in other areas.

money and eat healthy at the same time. Check labels for generic store brands to see if there's any difference in nutritional value. Oftentimes there is no difference, and the generic brands are significantly cheaper.

When buying fruit, buy fruit at various stages of ripeness. That way, you can eat one ripe piece of fruit today and one that will be ripe tomorrow.

Change Your Shopping Habits How a person shops for food can have a big impact on how healthy that person eats. For instance, don't shop when you are hungry. Doing so often leads to buying more food than you need and even buying certain foods you otherwise would not eat.

Seniors typically must live on a budget. While this can make it difficult to eat healthy, it's not impossible. Comparison shopping is one way to save

Don't Forget Dairy While many seniors struggle to digest dairy as they get older, there are ways to still get the health benefits of dairy, including stronger bones, and not struggle with digestion. When eating dairy, eat smaller amounts more times per day.

Also, eat dairy products with a meal and not alone. This can help ease digestion. For cheese afficionados, eat aged cheeses like Swiss or cheddar instead of mild cheeses, which are more difficult to digest.

Cooking for One (MS) - Perhaps you're the senior woman or gentleman at the supermarket pushing a wagon full of TV convenience dinners.

While it may seem the easy way to go now that the family has left the coop, those convenience meals are not always the healthiest option. Generally high in sodium and calories, they don't always fit into the acceptable diet for an elder person.

Cooking for one or two is something that should be embraced as you grow older.

While you may be accustomed to cooking for a family, now that the nest is empty, scaling back will be required. Homemade food can be delicious, nutritious and simple. For adults who have lost a spouse or live alone, cooking can also be an enjoyable break in the day -- brightening your mood.

Consider these tips. * Spend a day cooking for the week, if desired. Make a few items that can be stretched and enjoyed later in the week or "tweaked" into a completely different meal. Meatloaf, for example, can be made into several meals. Sliced leftovers into a sandwich and enjoy on a crusty piece of French bread, or top those leftovers with mozzarella cheese and sauce and serve with

a small side of spaghetti. The same can be said for basic poultry and meat dishes as well. * "Dinner" doesn't have to be the extravagant meal that it once was. A half of a sandwich and a bowl of soup are perfectly acceptable options. * Many of your favorite recipes can be cut in half and enjoyed.

Experiment with making smaller quantities of desserts and foods. * Invest in good-quality freezer bags or a device that vacuum seals items. Buying smaller packages of foods tends to be more expensive than buying in bulk. Therefore, continue to buy the "family" packs of meats and poultry. Then separate them when you return home and package them securely for freezing.

Mark the date on items so that you use them promptly. * Don't underestimate the advantages of breakfast for dinner. Eggs whipped up into omelettes filled with fresh vegetables, a small stack of pancakes, or even a hearty bowl of oatmeal can be welcoming when you don't want much fuss.

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JOURNAL GAZETTE & TIMES-COURIER

MAY 2010 — 5

Don't Succumb to Stress After Retirement

(MS) - Perhaps no medical issue flys under the radar more than stress. A recent survey by the American Psychological Association found that onethird of Americans are living with extreme stress, while close to half of all survey respondents felt their stress levels are on the rise.

While stress is a problem many feel stems from work, stress is not solely a byproduct of work, and those without work-related stress can still be overwhelmed by feelings of stress. Simply put, stress can affect everyone, even the nation's retirees. While retirement is often seen as a chance to relax and enjoy the fruits of a life's worth of labors, retirement can also be a stressful time for many people. Getting by on less income can be stressful, as can health issues that might arise as we age. In fact, a person's ability to relax after a stressful event actually becomes more difficult the older we get. Such a reality only underlines the importance of stress prevention for retirees, who can decrease their risk of stress or stressrelated illness with some common preventive measures. * Diet and exercise. While seniors might not be able to do all that they used to when it comes to exercise and athletics, daily exercise combined with a healthy diet can go a long way to preventing stress. When exercising, be careful not to over-exert yourself but be sure to include exercise as part of your daily routine. Exercise can include a daily walk out in the fresh air, or a trip to the gym for some light weightlifting and cardiovascular work.

Seniors should always consult a physician before beginning an exercise regimen.

With respect to diet, avoid sugar, fried foods and overconsumption of alcohol, as each of these things can aggravate an existing condition, increasing the health-related stress many seniors feel as their immune system weakens and they become more susceptible to disease or additional ailments. * Be sure to socialize. Stress doesn't just come from work or a physical ailment, it can also be the result of a mental ailment, such as depression resulting from loneliness. Just like everyone else, seniors need to share their problems and concerns as well as their good times with others. Just because you're retired from work does not mean you're retired from life. Stay actively involved in your community, and be sure to maintain regular contact with friends and family members.

Socialization comes in many different forms, and seniors should take advantage of community-based programs to connect with other seniors or even share their experience with younger generations whenever possible. * Develop a daily routine. Part of the joy of retirement is having the freedom to do whatever you want whenever you want to do it. However, many retirees find that a daily routine helps them instill a sense of order in their lives and avoid stress. The daily routine can include a morning round of golf, a weekly lunch or dinner with the kids, or anything else that promotes a sense of purpose.

Eliminate the Empty Nest Blues (MS_ - While some empty nesters bid farewell to their children and return home giddy with plans for that hobby room that has been desired, a fair share feel as empty as their now-vacant house.

It is possible to banish the blues that come from saying goodbye to grown children who are going off to college, getting married or leaving for military duty. Here are some ways to put a smile on your face.

like you did when you were newlyweds. * Foster relationships with friends. Just because you've traded in carpools and soccer practice for invitations to each other's children's weddings, that doesn't mean you have to lose touch with friends. Take the time to schedule "Empty Nest" parties, where parents in similar situations can enjoy companionship.

maybe you have been waiting for him or her to move out so you can finally have your own room again! Whatever the case, make your plans to change the house to meet your needs instead of the whole family's needs. * Plan family reunions. If the thought of having all the kids under the same roof again makes you smile, schedule plenty of family get-togethers so everyone can catch up in person. Whether it's cake and coffee or a big backyard barbecue, savor the moments with your family.

* Look ahead. Don't spend days looking at old photo albums reliving the past. Yes your baby boy grew quickly; now he's a 6foot-tall certified public accountant. Plan for your future with your spouse. Make a list of all the things you've wanted to accomplish that were always shelved due to familial responsibilities. Now that you have the time, do these things.

* Go ahead and renovate the house. Don't feel guilty about turning your son or daughter's former room into a space that caters to your interests. Or

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* Set sparks ablaze. Too often couples put their own needs aside for the needs of their children. This can take a toll on the relationship and intimacy.

Now that the kids have flown the coop, get to know your spouse again. Go on dates, be daring around the house. Live

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6 — MAY 2010

JOURNAL GAZETTE & TIMES-COURIER

Live Life to the Fullest by Addressing Urinary Incontinence

(MS) -- Men and women are living longer, but not necessarily enjoying their golden years.

Thanks to medical advancements and trends in healthier living, the average life expectancy has grown to 78 years. However, one condition continues to plague older individuals and compromises their quality of life -- urinary incontinence.

Urinary incontinence (UI) is a stigmatized condition that is mistakenly thought to be a normal part of aging. Usually, UI goes unreported, undiagnosed, and untreated. Sufferers of UI often face personal costs, including compromised social interaction, sexual dysfunction, embarrassment, and even professional complications.

Although UI affects more than 200 million people worldwide, many are reticent to discuss UI with family or doctors, and therefore live in the shadows of the condition.

Being open about UI is the key to living a healthier, more active lifestyle. What's more, treating incontinence doesn't necessarily have to mean harsh medications, side effects, or fre-

quent trips to the doctor. Many men and women find that simple herbal remedies are all it takes to alleviate many of the symptoms of UI. Talking with a doctor about health conditions that can be causing the UI (such as an enlarged prostate, or loss of elasticity in bladder muscles) can be the two-fold step to get back on track.

Here's how active seniors can improve their quality of life simply by addressing their UI symptoms. * Improved sleep: One of the biggest side-effects and annoyances of urinary incontinence is the need to visit the bathroom frequently during the night. It is not uncommon for UI sufferers to awaken several times from sleep with the urge to go. Broken sleep can affect a person's health in a negative way. Research indicates that inadequate sleep can raise stress levels, affect mental acuity, stress the heart, and open an individual up to injury from being overtired. Lack of sleep can also compound issues of depression.

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* Reduced chance of injury: Rushing to the bathroom is known to be one of the biggest factors in causing fall, injuries in seniors -- especially at night.

Slipping or falling can cause broken bones and other serious injuries. * Greater self-esteem: Individuals with UI may be embarrassed about their condition, and therefore break off relationships or become introverted. Many forego interactions with friends, family, or even pass up on social engagements because of the fear of urine leakage or the stigma of visiting the bathroom frequently.

Even though UI is beyond a person's control, many view the condition as a personal failure. This is unhealthy for seniors because socialization is one of the key ways to keeping the brain active and reducing depression. Treating UI helps one regain the control of the situation, and quickly feel better about oneself. * Travel benefits: Seniors who are in the prime of their lives without financial restrictions or employment obligations often find that travel is the perfect pastime. But UI can infringe upon the travel-bug lifestyle.

Many UI sufferers become wary

of traveling too far from home, or prefer to visit familiar haunts because they know where the bathroom is in an emergency.

Facing the risk of leakage can induce panic attacks and compound anxiety problems. Those who tackle UI can enjoy the newfound freedom of getting up and going whenever they desire.

Booking that extended vacation becomes possible.

"I am a very active 69," says Clara. "I travel a lot, and it was very inconvenient when I was in an unfamiliar environment and had to look for a restroom constantly. Now I don't need to think about the location of the next bathroom. I can laugh fully and freely without concern." * Better personal hygiene: Coping with UI often involves using absorbent pads as back-up to

* Economical and environmental benefits: Individuals can save hundreds of dollars by eliminating all types of absorbent pads from their routine shopping lists.

Plus, treating UI is environmentally friendly.

Seniors using absorbent pads and undergarments can easily fill up garbage bags with these disposable items, which then end up in landfills.

Making Friends After Retirement (MS) - When you're younger, it seems you can't wait until retirement. After all, who wants to deal with going to work every day and coping with coworkers and a boss?

However, many people overlook the opportunities for socialization that working provides. You get out of the house and see people -- apart from your family -- with whom you can converse. Many retirees find that life can be a bit boring after the job ends, primarily because they don't have access to the same level of socialization as they once did.

Making friends can keep you active and healthy. If you're a bit rusty in the friendmaking department, it's pretty much how it was when you were younger. You simply must find individuals who have simi-

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bathroom visits. While these sanitary pads have definitely evolved for convenience and appearance, they still need to be changed frequently to avoid rashes or other skin irritation.

Also, odor may be a problem if pads aren't regularly addressed.

Treating UI means greater freedom from bulky pads and the host of hygiene issues that may result.

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lar interests and goals. * Volunteer in your community and you're bound to find potential friends who are like-minded. * Take classes at a college or university. Many offer free or discounted rates for seniors.

This is a great way to meet people of all ages and walks of life. * Attend clubs at senior centers or houses of worship. It's likely that there are plenty of other people looking for relationships. * Think about your interests. If you like fishing, sewing or boating, join a club that caters to those interests. Others who share your hobbies will be there. * If you're new to an area, host an open-house party and invite neighbors in for introductions and some socialization. * Join a social networking site online. You can connect with people, potentially individuals who live close by. * Ask existing friends if they have other friends to whom they can introduce you.

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JOURNAL GAZETTE & TIMES-COURIER

MAY 2010 — 7

How to Manage Medications Safely determine whether another medication is safe to take. It is easy for the elderly to forget about a medication he or she is taking or mix it up with another when the person is managing so many pills. Drug interactions can be dangerous and potentially fatal. Therefore it is essential to manage meds as carefully as possible.

(MS) - Statistics indicate that the average senior takes four to five prescription medications daily and potentially two over-the-counter products as well. Individuals could be consuming 10 to 15 pills in one day. Research also indicates that a senior will use roughly 25 different prescription medications during the course of a year. Managing this many medications can be tricky.

Seniors rely on a myriad of medications for various health conditions. Oftentimes, these meds are prescribed by different specialists with little to no coordination between them.

Doctors often rely on patient information regarding prescription usage to complete medical history forms and

1. The first step to take is to make a list of all medications that you are currently taking.

If you use one pharmacy (highly adviseable for record-keeping and notification of drug interactions), you can ask the pharmacy to print a list of the pills you take. It will have the actual names and show your prescription history. Make copies of this list. Store one at home in a file cabinet, and keep others in your wallet or purse to bring with you to doctors' appointments. When asked about prescriptions, you'll have your list ready and waiting.

2. Make sure you fully understand dosage and duration of medications when your doctor prescribes something. Doctors stereotypically have poor handwriting on prescriptions.

Therefore, do not hesitate to ask that the instructions be repeated. Verify the instructions with the pharmacist when picking up the medication.

3. Store all medication in the original containers so that you have the proper dosage and expiration dates. This will

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make renewals and dosage checks easier.

4. If you take multiple pills each day, it can be handy to use a pill organizer separated into days of the week and times of the day. At the beginning of each week, use your pill bottles to measure out what pills you need to take at each time. If you feel confused about this process, ask a family member, friend or even the pharmacy to help.

5. Read the safety information provided with prescription medications. It will tell you what you can and can't do while taking a medication, as well as potential side effects. If you have any concerns about the information, speak with the pharmacist or call your doctor. You're always better

safe than sorry.

expired medications promptly.

6. Store prescriptions where they are accessible by you but not by other members of the family. If you are sharing a home with a spouse or someone else who takes multiple medications, keep your pills separate from the others. You may want to color-code bottles or organizers so you can easily see what pills are yours or your spouse's.

10. If your doctor tells you to stop taking a medication, dispose of it promptly.

7. Avoid taking medication in the dark or while tired. You may take the wrong pill and risk overdose.

12. If a medication's side effects are making you ill or you do not feel right or improved while taking a medication, consult with your doctor. You know your body best.

8. Keep medications away from young children, especially visiting grandchildren.

9. Routinely check expiration dates on bottles. Discard

11. Always take the prescription as prescribed by a doctor.

Don't play with dosage or skip pills because you feel like it.

Also, don't abruptly stop taking a medication. Some prescriptions require you to gradually wean off.

13. Alcohol interacts with many different prescriptions.

Be careful of mixing alcohol and drugs.

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8 — MAY 2010

Helping a Parent After the Loss of a Spouse (MS) - Few children, even adult children, are ever prepared enough to help their parent deal with the loss of a spouse.

In addition to coping with their own loss of a parent, many adults must find a way to help a parent who just lost the love of their life.

While it is never easy helping a parent in such a situation, there are ways to help a parent cope with such a significant loss.

share this responsibility. Also, you can cook for your parent just like he or she used to cook for you.

While physical health is important, be sure your parent maintains his or her mental health as well. Depression is common among those who have lost a loved one, so ask them about their feelings and if they're getting enough sleep.

If adult children have their own kids, bring the grandkids over whenever possible. Nothing puts a bigger smile on a grandparent's face than the sight of his or her grandchildren.

* Be mindful of your parent's health. Sadly, a common side effect of losing a spouse is showing less interest in your own health. Kids must make sure their parent continues to eat regularly. This can be done in a number of ways. Invite your parent over for dinner a couple of nights a week, and go over to your parent's home for dinner a couple of additional nights. If you have siblings,

* Allow them some space to be themselves. While you might want to stay as close as possible to your parent, you also need to give them some space to be themselves. Your parent just lost his or her spouse, and it's perfectly natural for him or

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her to want some time alone.

Afford them this opportunity, but be mindful to check in with them regularly and not allow them to spend too much time alone. * Engage your parent as much as possible. When both your parents were still alive, you might not have invited them along to the movies or when taking your own kids to a sporting event.

However, engage them in such activities now, as they might not get a chance to do such things otherwise.

Another way to engage parents is to talk to them about current events or even books you have been reading. Doing so will help them stay mentally sharp, and you will no doubt benefit as well from their point of view. * Take a trip with your parent.

Initially, your parent might be reluctant to travel, especially if he or she had travel plans or dreams with his or her spouse.

However, over time your parent will no doubt enjoy the prospect of traveling with the family, and it can be an enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

JOURNAL GAZETTE & TIMES-COURIER

Job Opportunities Abound for Seniors (MS) - At one point in the 2008 Oscar-nominated film "Frost/Nixon," former President Richard Nixon, played by Frank Langella, says, "Retired people are the most bored people in the world." While some retirees might scoff at that remark, others no doubt agree there's an element of truth to it.

Perhaps boredom is one reason many seniors continue to work past retirement age.

According to the Congressional Research Service (CRS), 47 percent of male seniors and 34 percent of female seniors were employed in 2007. That those figures were from 2007 is significant, as it indicates this was before the economic downturn of 2008-09, a consequence of which was more seniors returning to the workforce.

For many seniors, though, working isn't simply a means to earn money. In fact, seniors who continued working past the age of 70 earned an average of just $20,000 in 2007. Seniors also tend to work to have something to do. For seniors looking to do just that, there are a host of employment or even volunteer opportunities that can help seniors stay busy and possibly put a little extra money in their pockets. * Local park service. Many local park services hire seniors to help keep the parks clean.

These are often seasonal oppor-

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tunities, making them ideal for seniors who live in different cities depending on the seasons. * Golf course. Golf courses are other seasonal businesses, at least in much of the country, that also boast lots of part-time opportunities for seniors. For example, golf courses need rangers, who ensure all golfers play by the rules and respect the course, and even maintenance staff, who do everything from cut the grass to maintaining gardens. These can also pull double duty, providing seniors with daily exercise to help them stay healthy. * Volunteer. Many programs that help indigent citizens get by every day welcome seniors as volunteers. Meal delivery services and other programs that cater to the sick are often in need of a helping hand. * School systems. Local school districts also have volunteer opportunities that can be ideal for seniors. Positions such as crossing guard or even helping out with the local athletic teams don't require much of a commitment and can be rewarding and fun for seniors. * Consultant work. Seniors who miss the thrill of business don't have to give it up completely simply because they're retired.

Many seniors earn a handsome amount of money by working as consultants, using their vast experience to help the next generation. What's more, consultants often work on their own schedule, an ideal situation for seniors with a passion for business but an equal passion for the positives of retirement. * Library. Libraries might not be as popular as they once were, but many are still going strong, and some even use volunteers and part-time employees to keep their operations running smoothly. Many libraries prefer hiring seniors thanks to their reliability and good attitude.

OUR TIME

JOURNAL GAZETTE & TIMES-COURIER

MAY 2010 — 9

Seniors Can Prevent Falls becoming more brittle as a person ages, falls that would be minor for someone younger can be dangerous to older adults.

Most fractures experienced by older adults are due to falls.

The risk for injury increases the older a person is, say experts. And falls can also contribute to early death. The key to reducing injury is to prevent falls and ready the body should a fall occur.

(MS) - Among older adults, falls are the leading cause of injury deaths. They are also one of the most common reasons seniors visit the emergency rooms for trauma each year. Falls are largely preventable.

More than one-third of

adults aged 65 or older fall each year in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Many of these falls lead to serious injuries, such as head trauma, hip fractures, other fractures, and bruising.

Due to the nature of bones

* Exercise regularly, as much as is possible for your level of health. Low-impact activities, such as Tai Chi and yoga can improve balance, flexibility and strength. * Ask your doctor to review your medications to see if any side effects are loss of balance, vertigo or something that can compromise mobility. Some medicines may also contribute to fragile bones. * Improve the lighting in your

home. Illuminate staircases and entryways. Place night lights in bathrooms or hallways for ease of traveling in dim light. * Most falls occur in the bathroom and kitchen. In the bathroom, place grab bars that make it easier to enter and exit the shower. Consider using a seat in the shower if you become lightheaded or feel unbalanced. * Have your vision checked by a professional every year to ensure your prescription is unchanged. If your glasses or contact lenses are adding difficulty to walking properly, address this with your eye doctor. * Look around the home and identify potential fall hazards, such as unsecured rugs or cluttered furniture. Remove the hazards.

* Use an assistance device if you feel unsteady. A cane or walker can provide a little more balance, if needed. * Wear shoes or slippers with nonslip soles for better traction. * Ask for help with tasks that involve climbing, heavy lifting or standing on a stool or ladder. * Sit on the edge of the bed for a few minutes before standing up. This will enable your blood pressure to equalize and prevent dizziness while standing. * Limit alcohol consumption, especially if it can interfere with medication you are taking. * Eat a balanced diet and take a calcium supplement to help strengthen bones.

10 — MAY 2010

OUR TIME

JOURNAL GAZETTE & TIMES-COURIER

Seniors Can Enjoy Summertime Safely (MS) - Many people look forward to the warm weather, particularly senior citizens.

Spending time outdoors can be healthy and refreshing, but seniors exposed to too much sun and heat could be at risk medically.

Each year exposure to high temperatures and humidity leads to hundreds of deaths across the country.

Seniors comprise a large percentage of heat-related illnesses and deaths. Seniors have a harder time adjusting to extreme temperatures than younger adults, which

puts them at risk. Also, certain pre-existing medical conditions and medications could make older individuals more susceptible to heatrelated illness.

One of the factors contributing to seniors' risk of health implications from hot weather is their loss of the sensation of thirst as they grow older. Without the desire to drink regularly, individuals could become dehydrated very easily. This, factored in with changes in body temperature regulation, can result in confusion, falls and other preventable adverse effects.

Safety is of utmost concern during the warm weather. Do not take any situation lightly because it could impact one's health. Here are some precautions to follow. * Move slowly: Rushing around in hot weather can cause body temperature to rise more quickly and make you even hotter. Slow down when it is warm and do plenty of relaxing. * Know the ambient temperature indoors: The heat inside can quickly rise. Keep curtains and blinds drawn to reduce the amount of heat from the sun. Check the thermostat to find out the temperature. If you have an air

conditioner or fan, turn it on to cool down the house if the temperature is creeping above 85 F. Otherwise, seek a cooler location until your home cools down. * Drink plenty of fluids: Beverages such as water, fruit juices, decaffeinated teas and the like can keep you hydrated and in top form. Avoid alcoholic beverages, soft drinks and caffeinated products. * Skip hot, heavy meals: Opt for cooler fare, such as cold sandwiches, fruit and salads, to keep your body temperature cooler. * Plan outdoor activities during cooler hours: If you must spend time outdoors, do so early in the morning or in the evening when the temperatures are bound to be lower and less taxing. * Indulge in a little "cooling off": Take a dip in a neighborhood pool or treat yourself to an ice cream sundae. Do what you need to stay cool. * Don't ignore signs of health problems: If you feel dizzy, have shortness of breath, have stopped sweating, or confusion, it could be heat exhaustion. Call for medical help immediately.

Did You Know?

The senior population is one of the fastest-growing demographics, thus making it a very influential one. There are currently about 500 million people age 65 or older around the world. And many seniors are living longer than ever before.

Statistics project that there will be 580,605 centenarians in the United States in 2040.

Also, by 2050, seniors will make up 21 percent of the population. While there is no singular reason for seniors living longer, advancements in medi-

cine no doubt have played a major role in the average life expectancy increasing over the last several years. According to a study from the American Cancer Society released in 2010, age-standardized cancer death rates have been decreasing since the early 1990s, a welcome development the study's author feels is a direct result of reductions in tobacco use, increased cancer screening that help detect cancer earlier and improvements in treatment for specific cancers.

OUR TIME

JOURNAL GAZETTE & TIMES-COURIER

MAY 2010 — 11

Helping Seniors Cope with RecessionRelated Financial Loss want to consider a fixed annuity.

These can be immediate or deferred, allowing seniors the chance to plan for living on a fixed income without having to jump right into it. Consult a financial advisor with your parents to discuss the advantages and disadvantages to fixed annuities.

ment account withdrawal rate and save money in doing so.

While it might not be ideal to cut back spending during a time that's supposed to be carefree, the recession certainly changed reality in ways many did not foresee. As a result, cutting spending by reducing their rate of withdrawal might be the best way seniors can still enjoy their golden years and hang on to their money as well.

* Suggest retirees adjust their withdrawal rate.

Current retirees can adjust their retire-

Senior Dating (MS) - During the global economic downturn in 2009, many people were forced to reassess their financial futures. While some weathered the storm better than others, few came out of the recession in better shape than they entered it.

Perhaps no group of people was more hurt than baby boomers or senior citizens. While some senior citizens were savvy enough to see the economic downturn coming and therefore minimize the damage done to their nest eggs, many more witnessed their retirement savings take a big hit.

In many cases, the children of those baby boomers and senior citizens are left wondering what they can do to help. Adults themselves, these children have likely also taken a financial hit as a result of the recession, and might be puzzled as to how they can help their parents or in-laws cope with financial loss. The following tips may help do just that. * Avoid using credit cards. Credit cards are not the solution to solving any current debt or financial problems. Credit cards are only adding more debt or, for those without any current debt, creating a bigger financial problem than the one that currently exists. While recent legislation in the United States has placed restrictions on creditors and interest rates, that does not

mean credit cards are now a viable crutch for those struggling financially. * Discourage risk. The knee jerk reaction when one loses money in the market is generally one of two things. Some investors immediately want to pull all of their money out of the market, while others want to take on more risk. The latter is similar to someone losing money at a casino and continually doubling their bets in an effort to recoup their losses with one lucky hand.

Unfortunately, there is no lucky hand when it comes to the market, and adults should discourage their parents of taking on riskier investments to recoup their lost nest eggs. Regardless of how much a person may or may not have lost during the recession, the rule of thumb that investments should grow less risky as we grow older still applies. * Recommend a relocation. While the housing market also took a hit during the recession, chances are your parents' property is still quite valuable. What's more, if your parents are still in the home where they raised their family, that's an asset they probably no longer need. Whether downsizing involves selling the home and moving to a smaller home or condo or selling the home and relocating to a more affordable state or city, it's an

option that can free up assets and help relieve some of the stress associated with losses from the recession. * Discusss a fixed annuity. Fixed annuities might not be for everyone, but seniors worried about outliving their retirement savings and having no income might

are a number of dating sites that are catering specificially to the senior market. This makes dating even easier. As with anything, it's wise to be cautious when meeting people online. It's easy to falsify information through the Internet, and photos posted on dating sites may not be indicative of how a person looks today.

(MS) - Did you know that more and more online dating sites are accomodating the growing number of seniors who want to meet a special someone whether for romance or friendship? These sites are relatively inexpensive and present a wide array of eligible people. Websavvy seniors are finding dating sites convenient for meeting people. What's more, there TM

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