A A NH
Live life on your terms, while we take care of the rest at RiverMead, Southern New Hampshire's premier Life Plan Community (CCRC). Take advantage of our on-campus trails, gardens, and riverfront. Take a course or attend a lecture. Focus on your wellness in our fitness center and indoor pool.
Havenwood Heritage Heights is a vibrant, friendly and unpretentious community on two campuses filled with resort-style amenities. Here, you’ll find an appealing selection of maintenance–free homes, including nine new cottages. The community offers an outdoor sports complex, fitness centers, indoor and outdoor pools, movie theater, Main Street and a variety of dining options.
This continuing care retirement community offers accommodations for assisted living, memory care, rehabilitation and skilled nursing should the need arise. All this in the company of friends.
IT’S SHOWTIME hobbies
Seniors discover or rekindle an array of hobbies from music to knitting and even coloring
By RACHEL WACHMAN Monitorstaff
EveryotherFridaymorning,agroup ofseniorsgathersattheCity-Wide CommunityCenterfor90minutesof music.TheMusicalJamgroupfeatures severalviolins,anaccordion,aguitar, andaharmonica,amongotherinstruments.
“Musicjustmakesyoufeeljoyful. Whenyou’replayingtheinstruments youenjoy,youforgetabouteverything else,”saidBeckyBukowski,afounding memberofthegroup,whichformeda
yearago.
Shebeganplayingthefiddleeight yearsagoandhasenjoyedconnecting withhermusicalsidesinceretiring.
“Thepeoplewhocome,mostof themhaveeitherjustpickedupaninstrumentandarelearningitorhave beenlearningitthepastfewyearslike Ihave,ortheyplayedasachild,went onandlivedtheirlivesandsortof forgotaboutitandnowthatthey’re olderandkidshaveleftthehomeand they’relookingforahobby.They’ve resurrectedit,”Bukowskisaid.
ShepreviouslyservedasthecoordinatorforsenioractivitiesattheCommunityCenterandnowenjoystaking advantageofthecenterinhercapacity asaConcordresident.
“Wealllovemusic,”shesaidofthe group.“We’reactuallyallrather amazedathowwesound.Ithinkwhen wefirststarted,wealljustthought, ‘We’lldothebestwecanevenifwe don’tsoundfabulous.’We’veallbeen prettyamazedatwhatwe’veputtogether.”
“We all love music. We’re actually all rather amazed at how we sound. I think when we first started, we all just thought, ‘We’ll do the best we can even if we don’t sound fabulous.’ We’ve all been pretty amazed at what we’ve put together.”
Becky Bukowski
GEOFF FORESTER / CONCORD MONITOR
Musician play at the Citywide Community Center in Concord for a Musical Jam session, featuring several violinists, a guitarist and a harmonicist.
ThemusicgroupheldaconcertinMay fortheseniorseatinglunchatthecenter andhopestoholdanotheroneinthefuture.
SeniorProgramRecreationSpecialist LauraPuroemphasizedthebroadarrayof activitiesavailabletoseniorsandencouragedpeopletotakeadvantageoftheofferings.
“Ithinkit’sjustincrediblethatifyou workyourwholelifeandyou’reretired, it’sagreatway,thesedifferentactivities, tosocializeandinteractwithpeople,just getoutofyourday-to-dayroutine,a reasontogetoutofyourhouseandjustgo andhavefunandmakesomefriends, whetherit’splayingagameorbowlingor knitting,eatinglunch,ormusicaljam,” Purosaid.
Activitiesincludegroupexercise,board games,outingstolocalfarms,bookclubs, monthlylunches,baking,andtripsto restaurantsinthearea.
PatriciaCummingshastakenadvantage ofmanyofferingsatthecommunity centerandsaystheknittingcircleisherfavorite.
“Someofusdonateourscarvesandhats andscarvesandmittensandthatwemake tocharityandothersofcourseknitfor themselvesandforfamily,”shesaid.
Cummingsalsoappreciatesthatthe adultcoloringgroupmeetsatthesame time–andinthesameroom–astheknittingcircle,sosheandherhusband,who enjoyscoloring,canbetogetherwhileparticipatingintheirrespectiveactivities.
Thecoupleattendscoffeesocials,trivia, walks,holidayparties,concerts,andguest speakerevents.Cummings,aquilthistorian,evengaveatalkonquiltsandanother oncollectiblemilitarypillows.Sheenjoyedbeingabletoshareherpassionwith thoseinthecommunity.
Thecenteralsooffersgroupmeals,includingseniorluncheonsthatcost$3fora fullmeal.
“Themainreasonwe’vebeengoingisto socializewithotherpeople,”Cummings said.“AlsoweliketheOutToLunchgroup thatgoestoplacesliketheOliveGarden andElRodeoMexicanRestaurantand othersaroundtown.Ithelpssupportthe localbusinessesandgettogetherwith people.Usuallythere’sabout20ofusthat gettogether.”
OtheropportunitiesforseniorinvolvementattheCommunityCenterincludes tabletennis,mahjong,fitnessclasses,indoorandoutdoorwalking,trailhikes, cribbage,andScrabble.
Forseniorslookingtogetinvolvedwith theCommunityCenter,Purorecommendsstoppingbyinperson,visitingthe websiteathttps://www.concordnh.gov/774/Senior-Citizen-Programs,orreachingoutviaemailto LPuro@concordnh.govorSeniorProgram@concordnh.gov
RachelWachmancanbereachedat rwachman@cmonitor.com.
“The main reason we’ve been going is to socialize with other people. Also we like the Out To Lunch group that goes to places like the Olive Garden and El Rodeo Mexican Restaurant and others around town. It helps support the local businesses and get together with people. Usually there’s about 20 of us that get together.”
Patricia Cummings
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EDUCATION FIRST - RETAIL SECOND
Since opening their CBD store at 211 Loudon road, Concord NH , Rick & Laurie Smith have been nominated BEST CBD STORE 4 consecutive times by their loyal customers thru the Concord Monitor as well as the Union Leader. They attribute it to putting Education First and Retail Second. Smith says he was totally shocked at the need for a more natural alternative to common ailments such as pain, sleep, and anxiety. “In the world we live in today, it’s no wonder that more and more people are suffering from anxiety and sleep deprivation “the truth of the matter is people are stressed out and that sometimes can lead to poor sleep and even increased inflammation in the body. The response from the community has been outstanding and we truly appreciate each and every customer in the last 5 years. When a new customer comes in we first like to listen to what brought them in and try and get a true understanding of the underlying issues. Next we always offer free samples and education of how CBD works in our body and the potential benefits. Then we explain what products we have available and the difference between each one as well as the various applications. We always maintain a “No Pressure” atmosphere where education always comes first and I feel people appreciate that. Our Theory from day one, has been to treat each customer as they were family and to try our hardest to help them the best we can with whatever resources we have available to us. If we are successful in doing that then we know they will return. We truly
do care about our customers.
When asked about what separates SunMed products from other brands? Smith replies, well first of all, you have to be careful out there, not all CBD is the same. We believe in quality and transparency from soil to oil. That’s why every one of our products come with a scannable QR code with a specific lot number that links third - party lab reports. Our Stringent quality control process ensures our products deliver the best possible results for you and your family. I Think in the last 5 years we’ve been able to leave a positive mark in the community. Most new customers come to us with the understanding that you can’t stay in business for 5+ years (through a pandemic) unless you have superior products that are effective and helping people. Rick and Laurie invite you to stop by YOUR CBD STORE located at 211 Loudon Rd @ Courtyard Square Tue-Sat 10-6. Come on in and get educated, get some free samples and enter our Free 100$ Store Drawing.
WHAT IS
CBD?
CBD, scientifically known as cannabidiol, is a naturallyoccurring compound found in the resinous flower and leaves of the
hemp plant. Dating back thousands of years, this plant compound has been used as a natural wellness supplement for various mental and physical needs. CBD is the best- researched Cannabinoid, with its list of restorative wellness benefits constantly expanding. CBD and other plant compounds interact with the receptors in our Endocannabinoid System (ECS) known to be the largest system of receptors in mammals. This system places a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes. Essentially, Cannabinoids are crucial to how we (and our pets) experience everyday life.
WHAT IS CBG ?
The mother of all Cannabinoidscannabigerol (CBG) is the precursor for THC AND CBD in hemp plants. Without the production of CBGA (the acidic form of CBG), there would be no Cannabinoids. Aside from this major fact, this minor Cannabinoid is studied individually for its stimulating invigorating, and mood-lifting properties. Now, some hemp plants are cultivated specifically for CBG production. Just as CBD is the first cannabinoid produced in the hemp plant, it is best to utilize this cannabinoid first thing in the morning. We use a CBGA-rich formula in our
favorite immune+ tincture and other daytime products.
WHAT IS CBN ?
Cannabinol (CBN), the first cannabinoid to be isolated by scientists, also begins as CBG, Through exposure to heat, air and light, the CBG then degrades to THC, and eventually- becomes CBN. This naturally occurring “sleepy” cannabinoid takes much longer to produce than its mother cannabinoid, but is well worth the wait. Exciting research continues to emerge on CBN’s relaxing sedative effects on the ECS. Therefore, it is best to take this minor cannabinoid about an hour before your desired sleep time. We utilize CBN, lavender and valerian root in our plant -rich nighttime formulas.
Learn more about how CBD can possibly help you or a loved one by visiting N.H’s Flagship Your CBD Store located in Concord N.H. Your CBD Store Concord 603-715-1153 211 Loudon Rd. Ste
Enjoying the view, and the company hiking
Hiking club gets out in ways that are inspiring and approachable
By HAL CARTER
Whatbetterandmoreappropriateway istheretocelebratethe6thanniversary oftheHikingClubatHavenwoodHeritageHeightsRetirementCommunity thanatriptohikeMt.Agamenticusin Maine?ThirtymembersoftheHiking Club,ranginginagefrom70to93,will travelbybustoenjoytheviewsofboth theWhiteMountainsandtheAtlantic Oceanfromthesummitofthe962-foot mountain.
Somewillhikeupthemountainwhile somewillridethebustothetopandhike aroundthesummittrails.Andwhilethe hikingabilityoftheclubmembersmay vary,theyareunitedintheirunderstandingthatstayingphysicallyactivein thecompanyoffriendsasweageisoneof thebestwaystomakethatagingprocess
morefunand,hopefully,lastlonger. WhenDonHayes,alife-longoutdoorsman,movedintoHHHsixyears ago,hewonderedwhetheranyoneelse wouldwanttogohikingwithhim.Hemet withacoupleotherresidents,andthey
decidedtoputoutageneralinvitation askinganyoneinterestedtocometoa meeting.Totheirpleasantsurprise,30 peopleshowedup.Thuswasbornthe HHHHikingClub.Acoupleyearslater,
The Hiking Club at Havenwood Heritage Heights Retirement Community in Concord.
Sunrise over Miller State Park in Peterborough.
theclubaddedbikingonrailtrails toitsactivities.
Hayesexplains,“Thebenefitseveryonegetsfromhikingareespeciallyimportantasweage.We knowthatolderpeoplecanmaintainandimprovetheirmusculoskeletalandcardiovascularhealth andtheirbalancebythesimpleact ofwalking,especiallyonuneven ground.Butperhapsofequal,ifnot greater,importancearethesocial andmentalhealthbenefitsofhiking innatureandinagroupataspeed thatpromotesconversationand
connectedness.Ican’tthinkof manytypesofexercisethatremain accessibletoolderpeopleandstill providesomanyadvantages.”
Today,theclubhasamembership ofover100residents,notallof whomparticipateinthehikesand biketrips,butallofwhomenjoy keepingupontheclub’sactivities andplansthroughthemonthly newslettertheclubpublishes.An activeCoordinatingCommitteeof 10residentsmeetsmonthlytoplan thehikesandotheractivities.The CoordinatingCommitteemembers alsocheckouttheplannedhikes
aheadoftimetomakesuretheyare suitableforthevarioushikingabilitiesofclubmembersandthenlead thehikes.Hikesrangefrom“SaturdayHikes,”(2mileslongwithalmostnoelevationgain),to“AdventureHikes,”(4mileslongwithelevationgainofupto500feet),to “AdventurePlusHikes,”(upto8 mileslongwith1,000feetofelevationgain).Hikesareheldatleast fourtimespermonth. Bikehikesareheldtwotimes eachmonthwhenweatherpermits. Inadditiontotheregularhiking andbikingtrips,theclubsponsors
bustripstohikingopportunitiesin theWhiteMountains,Maineand Massachusetts.“FullMoonWalks” ontheHeritageHeightsCampus followedbyasocialgathering,and anoccasionallysing-along,occur severaltimeseachyear.Amonthly “ForestBathing”opportunityisofferedinthewoodsbehindthe campus.
Withsomanyopportunities,the ResidentsofHHHhavemanyways ofstayingactiveastheyage.
HalCarterisaresidentatHavenwoodHeritageHeights.
Compassionate Cremation Services
HIKING FROM PAGE 6
Courtesy photos
The Hiking Club at Havenwood Heritage Heights Retirement Community in Concord likes to walk the trails and connect.
A guide to new NH laws for seniors
Statewide challenges with affordable housing can have an outsized effect on seniors
By CHARLOTTE MATHERLY Monitorstaff
Thegeneralelectionisjustweeks away,andcandidatesandvoters alikearegearinguptowardNov.5. Whatdoesthatlooklikeforseniors?TheNewHampshireCommissiononAgingsayssomeissues inthiselectionwillespeciallyimpactthestate’solderpopulation–thingslikeeconomicstabilityand housing,thehealthcarelabor shortageandtransportation.
JudithJones,thehealthyagingcoordinatoratNewFutures,aConcord-basednonprofitthatadvocates forpublicpolicytosupporthealth andwell-being,laidoutsomekeyissuesintheCommission’sOctober newsletter.
Statewidechallengeswithaffordablehousingcanhaveanoutsized
effectonseniors.WithNewHampshire’slargepopulationofolder adults,itshousingsupplyisn’t keepingup,andlocalzoninglaws, regulatoryredtapeandlackofinfrastructureinruralareascanmake itdifficulttobuildnewhomes.Seniorsarethefastest-growinghomelesspopulation,Joneswrote,and thescarcityofaffordablesenior housingcansometimescause peopletomoveintoassistedliving facilitiestoosoonorstayintheir housestoolong,accordingto NHPR.
Inhealthcare,facilitiesaround thestatehavesaidthey’restrugglingtohireenoughworkers–so muchsothattheExecutiveCouncil, whichcontrolsthestate’spurse strings,votedearlierthisyearto triplegovernment-runhealthcare facilities’staffingbudgetssothey canhiremoretemporaryaid.Jones recommendedthatpeopleaskcan-
Aging in Place at Home, with Extra Peace of Mind
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If so, Monadnock at Home is here to help!
If you are an older adult (age 62+) living independently at home but could use assistance around the home or are seeking stronger community connections, contact Monadnock at Home to learn how we can help you. monadnockathome.org
us at 603-371-0809 or help@monadnockathome.org
AP file
Residents arrive to vote in the New Hampshire primary at Bishop O’Neill Youth Center in Manchester on Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2020,
didatesabouttheirplanstobringandkeepmore healthcareprofessionalsinNewHampshire.
Asfortransportation,mostofNewHampshire ismadeupofsmall,ruraltownswithscant publictransportation.Nearly300,000peopleare aged65orolderintheGraniteState.Ofthat population,about20%donotdrive,Joneswrote. Thismeansmanyhavelimitedaccesstotransportation,whichisvitaltogettodoctor’sappointments,buyfoodandcompleteothernecessarytasks.Jonesrecommendedthatpeopleask candidatesabouthowthey’llinveststatefunds toincreasetransportationoptions.
Other areas of interest
Inthegovernor’srace,arecentAARPinterviewputcandidatesKellyAyotte(R)andJoyce Craig(D)ontherecordaboutissuesrelatingto seniors.
Ayotte,aformerU.S.senatorandNewHampshireattorneygeneral,saidshewantstofinda waytohelpcaregiverswithexpenses,expand healthcaretrainingprogramsanddegreesat NewHampshirecollegestofixthelabor shortageandkeepthetaxburdenonseniorslow. Shealsosupportsthestate’srecentrepealofthe interestanddividendstaxandwouldlauncha publicinformationcampaigntohelpprotect peoplefromfraudandscams.
Craig,theformerthree-termmayorofManchester,saidshe’llsupportNewHampshire’spaid familyleaveprogramandworktogettheword
outaboutscamsassoonastheycropup.She’d incentivizecollegestohosttrainingprograms andworktoincreasepayforhealthcareworkers, andshe’dfocusoncuttingcostsofenergy, housingandprescriptiondrugs.
Alsoontheballotthisyearisareferendum,in whichvoterswilldecidewhethertoraisethe mandatoryretirementageforNewHampshire judges.Currently,judgesmustretirewhenthey hitage70–theproposalontheballotcouldraise thatto75.
Rep.BobLynnofWindhamproposedthebill.
LynnhadtoretirefromtheNewHampshire SupremeCourtwhenhehitage70andsaysthe agelimitforcesoutjudgeswhootherwise wouldn’tretire,asreportedbyCitizensCount. Opponentsofthebillhavesaidtheagecap ushersinyoungerjudgesandnewideas.
CharlotteMatherlyisthestatehousereporterfor theConcordMonitorandMonadnockLedgerTranscriptinpartnershipwithReportforAmerica. FollowheronXat@charmatherly,orsendheran emailatcmatherly@cmonitor.com.
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JENNIFER HAUCK / Valley News file
Hanover voters Suzanna Laaspere, left, and Sandra Johnson mark their ballots on May 9, 2023.
Jeanne S. Saffan Stephanie J. Thomson Laura M. Dudziak Timothy K. O’Brien
SAVE THE DATE!!!
2024 New Hampshire Caregiver’s Conference
Wednesday, November 13, 2024
The Grappone Conference Center, Concord, NH
“Introducing the Balance Wheel and Determining What Areas of Life Might Need Some Attention”
Keynote Presenter: Susan McKeown, APRN (ret), CPS, MFA
Susan recognizes the challenges of caregiving, yet realizing how implementing self-care, expressing gratitude, and building healthy relationships at home and work can affect the energy and attitude necessary to live a full life, even when very different from the life you imagined.
planning Prepare for the hard decisions now
By LAURA DUDZIAK Upton&Hatfield
Itseemsthatmostpeopletodayspendmoretimeplanningvacationsthantheydoplanningforwhatcould happeniftheyhaveanaccidentorillnessleadingtoincapacitation.Whileplanningavacationisnodoubtmore excitingthanplanningforyourfutureincapacityand/or death,havinganappropriateestateplaninplacecanbring peaceofmind.
Haveyouconsideredwhatwouldhappenifyousufferedanillnessoranaccidentthatleftyoutemporarilyor permanentlyunabletopaymanageyourfinancialaffairs orbusinessmatters,ormakemedicaldecisionsforyourself?Planninginadvancecanmakeunforeseenevents easiertomanage,foryouandyourlovedones.Partof planningforfutureincapacityincludestheexecutionofa DurableGeneralPowerofAttorneyandanAdvance HealthcareDirective.Thesedocumentsaredescribedin detailasfollows.
Durable General Power of Attorney
ADurablePowerofAttorneyisalegaldocumentthat allowsyoutodesignatesomeoneyoutrusttoactasyour “agent”tomakelegaldecisionsconcerningissuespertainingtoyourpropertyandyourfinances.Youcanauthorizeyouragenttoexerciseasmuchoraslittlepower asyouchoose.AGeneralPowerofAttorneygrantsthe agentthepowertoactinanywayyoucouldonyourown behalf.ALimitedPowerofAttorneygrantstheagentthe powertotakeonlyspecific,limitedacts,suchasopening abankaccountorsigningclosingdocuments.
For more information contact: Ellen Edgerly, 603-834-9570 or Ellen@bianh.org or visit the Coalition of Caring’s website at www.coalitionofcaring.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CoalitionofCaring/ Twitter https://twitter.com/coalitioncaring
Herbert Diamond,88, of FortLee, N.J., meetswith Dr. Manisha Parulekar abouthis end of lifepreferences at the Hackensack Medical Center in Hackensack, N.J.
A
need to appoint a legal guardian DECISIONS
WithaDurablePowerofAttorney,youragentwillbeauthorizedtoactonyourbehalfeven afteryouhavebecomementallyincapacitated.Thepowercanbeeffectiveimmediatelyuponexecution ofthedocument,oruponproofof yourincapacitation.Allpowersof attorneyceasetobeeffectiveatthe deathoftheprincipal.TheDurable PowerofAttorneycanbeputinto effectimmediately,canstayineffectforeitheraspecifiedamountof timeorindefinitely,andcanberevokedatanytime.
Whenchoosinganagent,it’simportanttoconsiderthequalitiesof thepersontowhomyouaregiving authorization.Youshouldchoose anagentwhoistrustworthy,responsibleandhonest.
Youragentcanbeafamily member,aclosefriend,oraprofessional.Youwillwanttochoose someonewhohasyourbestinterestsinmindandwouldhandleyour businessthewayyouwouldhandle it.
Advance Healthcare Directive
AnAdvanceHealthcareDirective isalegaldocument,executedprior tosufferingfromanincapacitating illness.Itallowsyoutostateyour preferencesaboutyourmedical careifyoubecomeincapacitated. NewHampshirerecognizestwo formsofAdvanceDirectives:A DurablePowerofAttorneyfor HealthCareandaLivingWill. WithaDurablePowerofAt-
torneyforHealthCare,youname anotherperson,as“agent”toactas yourhealthcareagenttomakemedicaldecisionsforyouifyoubecome incapacitated.Thiscanincludesituationswhereyouareunableto makedecisionsduetosurgeryora temporaryillness.Ifyoudonot wantartificialfeedingorhydration, NewHampshirelawrequiresthat yousaysoinyourDurablePowerof AttorneyforHealthcare.
ALivingWillprovidesinstructionstomedicalcareprovidersregardinglife-sustainingtreatmentin theeventyouhaveaterminalillness orarepermanentlyunconscious.A LivingWillbecomeseffectiveonly whenyouwillnotrecover.Ifyoudo notwantartificialfeedingorhydration,NewHampshirelawrequires thatyousaysoinyourLivingWill.
UnderNewHampshirelaw,ifthe termsofyouradvancedirectives conflict,theDurablePowerofAttorneyforHealthCarewilloverrule theLivingWill.
Whenadurablefinancialpower ofattorneyandhealthcarepowerof attorneyareinplace,ifyoubecome incapacitated,therewillbenoneed foryourlovedonestoseeka guardianshiptomakedecisionsto actonyourbehalf.Obtaininga guardianshiprequiresacourtprocedureandcanbecostlyandtimeconsuming.Youcanavoidthisprocessbythinkingaheadandputting thesedocumentsinplace.
LauraDudziakofUpton&Hatfield focusesherpracticeonfamilylaw,estateplanning,andprobate.
DurableGeneral Powerof Attorney allowsyou, thePrincipal, toname an Agent with authority to manage your money and property on your behalf. The word “Durable” means thatthePowerofAttorney willremaineffective following your incapacitation without the
GAME ON, ALWAYS
Whether it’s golf, tennis or fitness class, Betty Shea is there for the experience and the camaraderie
ANN WHEELER
Betty Shea golfing at Shattuck Golf Club in Jaffrey.
By JESSECA TIMMONS MonadnockLedger-Transcript
ForBettySheaofJaffrey,it’snotso muchwhetheryouwinorlosethegame. It’sgettingoutthereandspendingtime withfriends.
Shea,87,isalifelongJaffreyresident. ShestillplaystenniseveryMondayfor anhourandahalfattheMonadnockIndoorTennisClub,participatesina ladies’leagueeveryweekattheShattuck GolfCourse,takesfitnessclassesat Rivermead,whereshehaslivedsince 2014,andisacompetitivebridgeplayer,
participatinginseverallocalgroups.
“Thecamaraderie thatiswhatismost important,”saidShea.“Ilovebeingwith thegirls.I’mtheoldestpersoninthe tennisclub,andI’mtheoldestpersonin thegolfleague,byfar!I’mtheonlyone withpurewhitehair.Butnoonetreats meanydifferently.Itisallaboutbeing togetherandhavingfun.”
SheagrewupinJaffrey,whereher familyfoundedtheBelletete’schainof hardwarestores.
“I’maBelletete.Mygrandfather startedElie’sgrocerystoreinJaffrey;my
parentswereHomerandLouiseBelletete.We’vebeeninbusiness125 years,”Sheasaid.“Myhusband,Ted, workedatBelletete’sfor40years,and wasCEOfor12years.I’vebeensofortunateandsoluckyinmylife.Weareso gratefultoallourwonderfulemployees overtheyears.Everythingisallthanks tothem.”
BothofShea’ssonsworkinthefamily business.Herolderson,Mike,isCEO, andheryoungerson,Matt,runsthePeterboroughstore.Herdaughter,Martha,
“I love being with the girls. I’m the oldest person in the tennis club, and I’m the oldest person in the golf league, by far! I’m the only one with pure white hair. But no one treats me any differently. It is all about being together and having fun.”
Betty Shea
STAFF PHOTO BY JESSECA TIMMONS
From left, Betty Shea, Vance Finn, Nancy Bennett and Diane Given before their Monday morning match at the Monadnock Indoor Tennis Center.
livesinFloridawithherfamily, andBettyhassixgrandchildren.
Sheastartedplayingtennisat CampTakodahatage14.
“Theyneededsomeonetoget outthereandplay,soIwentout there,andIjustfellinloveand havelovediteversince,”Sheasaid. “It’sabsolutelymyfirstlove.”
WhenSheaattendedhigh school,thetownhadnotennis courts,andtherewasnotennis team.Herloveofsportsledherto workasaP.E.teacherintheJaffrey-Rindgeschooldistrict,where shetaughtallgrades,K-12.
“IstillseemyoldP.E.students, alltheseyearslater.Lifejustcomes andgoesaround,”Sheasaid.
WhenShea’sthreechildrenwere alloldenoughtoattendschool,she enrolledatKeeneStateandreceivedateachingdegree.Formany years,shewastheliteracyteacher forgrades5-8atSt.Patrick’s SchoolinJaffrey.
“Thekidsweregreat.Theschool hadwonderfuldiscipline.We didn’tputupwithanybadbehavior,”Sheasaid.
BettyandTedraisedtheirfamily onGilmorePondinJaffrey,andfor
“They needed someone
out there and play, so I went out there, and I just fell in love and have loved it ever since. It’s absolutely my first love.”
Betty
Shea on learning to play tennis at age 14
Where caring is a way of life...
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COURTESY PHOTO MONADNOCK INDOOR TENNIS CLUB
From left: Betty Shea, Beverly Westheimer, Wendy Boxer, JoAnn Blood, Marge Switzer, Rosaly Bass, Barbara Davis, and MaryLou Marcus were members of the Monadnock Indoor Tennis 3.5 Club Senior Women’s team in 2000.
decades,Sheaplayedtennisatherneighbor MarianJohnson’stenniscourts.TheSheaswere lifelongmembersoftheThorndykeClub, wheretheyenjoyedtheclub’sclaytennis courts.Sheahasalsobeenalongtimemember oftheMonadnockIndoorTennisClub,where sheplayedsingles,doubles,andteamtennis.
Sheahasfondmemoriesofplayingcompetitiveteamtennisforyears.Shejustlaughswhen askedaboutwinningtrophiesorchampionships.
“Wetraveledallovertheplaceforyears playingteamtennis,”shesays.“Wehadaball.”
SheawasalsodeeplyinvolvedwiththeJaffreyHistoricalSocietyfor40years.
“I’veheldeverypositionontheboard,”she said.
AfterTedwasdiagnosedwithAlzheimer’s diseasein2016,thecouplemovedtoRivermeadinPeterborough.
“Weknewthiswouldbeawonderfulplaceto come,andmyhusbandwasveryhappyhere.I knewIcouldn’tlivealone–I’mverysocial,and Ilovepeople.Itisreallywonderfulhere they getyouinvolved.Ittakessomegettingusedto, notbeinginyourhouseanymore.It’sanadjustmenttolivethisway.Butit’sawonderful feelingtoalwayshavepeoplearoundandto havesomanythingstodo,”Sheasaid.
TedBelletetepassedawayin2020.
AtRivermead,SheaisontheLibraryCommittee,andwhenshe’snotplayingbridge, tennis,orgolf,sheattendsinfitnessclassesat
theRivermeadgym.
“StrongSeniorsiswonderful.Theexercisesit involveyourwholebody,whichisgreatfor people,”Sheasaid.
Sheahopesshecancontinueplayingtennis forawhiletocome.
“I’llbe88inFebruary.Ijusthopemybody
holdsoutsoIcankeepplaying,”shesaid.
Whenaskedifshehastriedpickleball,Shea admitssheisnotaconvert.
“It’sjustsodifferentfromtennis.Theracquetisdifferent,theballisdifferent.It’sjust nottennis,”shesaid.“AndIreallylove tennis.”
Save for Tomorrow with Peace of Mind for Today
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Betty Shea holds portraits of her parents, Louise and Homer Belletete, which she donated to the Jaffrey Historical Society in 2016.
“It started out as a normal outing. My wife and I had to run to the grocery store. We were driving down the road casually going over our shopping list when the car ahead of me started to slow down anticipating the yellow light. I started to move my foot from the gas to the brake as any normal person would do when they see brake lights in front of them, but I couldn’t. I couldn’t feel my foot. The car kept moving forward and I just couldn’t get my foot on the brake and CRUNCH! I nally came to a stop when I hit the Car in front of me.”
This tragic story was shared with us by Mike S., a New Hampshire resident who has Peripheral Neuropathy. While no one was hurt in this accident, Mike S. had suffered almost every day of his life with tingling and burning in his feet until numbness set in, and he could no longer feel even the brake pedal beneath his foot.
“The rst stage is pain.” Shares Dr. Kristen Markwith of Trend Acupuncture & Integrative
That’s where Dr. Markwith and her staff at Trend come in. “About 80% of our current patients come to us suffering from the same condition as Mike,” tells Dr. Markwith. “They’re in constant pain from neuropathy and it prevents them from not only living their lives but more importantly, it prevents them from enjoying it. Depending on the severity of their nerve damage, we typically see tremendous progress in 3-4 months of treatment. I like to say we’re in the business of making your golden years golden.”
“I can’t lie,” con des Mike. “I was skeptical at rst. So many specialists told me there was nothing that could be done and then there’s a doctor right here in Concord tells me she can help. Turns out she was right! About three months after treatment I was able to con dently drive myself to my appointments! My wife and I celebrated by buying ourselves a new car. It’s hard to put into words how incredible this is, quite frankly [Dr. Kristen] gave me my life back.”
“SHE GAVE ME MY LIFE BACK.”
Local clinic has a modern, medical solution to treat your Peripheral Neuropathy And is seeing
Medicine. “You feel burning, tingling, sharp pains, or you feel like you’re walking on tacks or marbles. This pain eventually subsides and the numbness sets in. Unfortunately, the numbness brings with it a whole other host of problems.”
This was the case with Mike. “I said I wasn’t going to drive again. What if that had been a pedestrian?”
It is terribly common that peripheral neuropathy and its debilitating symptoms interfere with a person’s ability to live their life. Mike was now reliant on his wife to drive him around, even the simple pleasure of cruising downtown or taking her to dinner was outside his capabilities. And even more common, Mike’s general practitioner and several specialists told him there was nothing they could do other than to prescribe him pills that would ease the pain of his neuropathy.
incredible results!
While Trend Acupuncture & Integrative
Medicine specializes in acupuncture and it’s de nitely part of their protocols in treating neuropathy, the real secret is in a more modern medical solution called ATP Resonance BioTherapy™. “This technology was originally developed by NASA to expedite healing and recovery,” shares Mikayla, Director of Patient Care at the clinic. “It’s like watering a plant. ATP Resonance BioTherapy™ stimulates the blood vessels to grow back around the peripheral nerve and provide them the proper nutrients to heal and repair.”
If you’re ready to schedule a complimentary consultation, call (603) 456-8294 and a care coordinator will be happy to assist you.
You can learn more about Dr. Markwith and Trend by visiting www.trendacupuncture.com.
www.TrendAcupuncture.com
time-tested science of acupuncture solutions to treat your pain, LIVE your life.
Peripheral Neuropathy is the pain, discomfort and numbness caused by nerve damage of the peripheral nervous system. Dawn explained that daily tasks like opening doors and using the bathroom were overwhelmingly painful.
“How can you live for the next 30 years when you don’t even want to get out of bed and do simple things?”
She was experiencing the burning, numbness, tingling and sharp pains that those suffering with neuropathy often describe. “The way I would describe it, it’s equivalent to walking on glass.”
Dawn hadn’t worn socks in ve years and was wearing shoes two sizes too big so that nothing would ‘touch’ her feet.
Unfortunately, Dawn’s story is all too familiar for the over 3 million people in the U.S. suffering from Peripheral Neuropathy.
Medicine in Concord, NH., is using the time tested science of Acupuncture and a technology originally developed by NASA that assists in increasing blood ow and expediting recovery and healing to treat the debilitating disease.
“Now when I go to bed at night I don’t have those shooting pains. I don’t have that burning sensation. I don’t have pain coming up my legs,” Dawn enthusiastically describes life after receiving Dr. Kristen’s treatments. “I can wear socks and shoes!”
Dawn and her sister now operate a successful dog walking business, sometimes covering up to 5 miles a day.
“It’s life altering. As far as I’m concerned Dr. Kristen saved my life!”
Dr. Kristen Markwith has been helping the senior community for over 10 years using the most cutting edge innovative (603) 456-8294 a consultation! Street, Unit 2, Concord, NH www.TrendAcupuncture.com
“My feet and legs were extremely painful and my doctor told me there was nothing they could do. That I would have to take Gabapentin for the rest of my life.”
“SHE SAVED MY LIFE.”
If you’re unfortunate enough to be facing the same disheartening prognosis, you’re not sleeping at night because of the burning in your feet. You have di culty walking, shopping or doing any activity for more than 30 minutes because of the pain. You’re struggling with balance and living in fear that you might fall. Your doctor told you to, ‘just live with the pain’ and you’re taking medications that aren’t working or have uncomfortable side effects.
Fortunately, four months ago Dawn read an article about Dr. Kristen Markwith, Licensed Acupuncturist, and the work she was doing to treat those suffering from Peripheral Neuropathy, without invasive surgeries or medications.
Dr. Kristen Markwith, founder of Trend Acupuncture and Integrative
integrative medicine. Specializing in chronic pain cases, speci cally those that have been deemed ‘hopeless’ or ‘untreatable,’ she consistently generates unparalleled results.
What was once a missing link in senior healthcare is now easily accessible to the residents in and around Concord.
If you’ve missed too many tee times because of pain or you passed on going for a night out on the town because you are afraid of falling, it’s time to call Dr. Kristen Markwith and the staff at Trend.
It’s time you let your golden years be GOLDEN!
To schedule a complimentary consultation, please call (603) 456-8294, a patient care coordinator will be happy to assist you.
To learn more about Dr. Markwith and Trend Acupuncture, please visit us at www.trendacupuncture.com
holidays Navigating the holidays
Tips for dementia family caregivers
By MELISSA GRENIER
Theholidaysareoftenfilledwith opportunitiesfortogetherness, sharing,laughterandmemories.But theycanalsobringstress,disappointmentandsadness.Aperson livingwithAlzheimer’soranother dementiamayfeelaspecialsenseof lossduringtheholidaysbecauseof thechangestheyhaveexperienced. Atthesametime,caregiversmay feeloverwhelmedmaintainingtraditionswhileprovidingcare.
Thefollowingtipsmayhelpyou maketheholidayseasierandhappieroccasions:
Adjust expectations
–
Callaface-to-facemeetingor arrangeforagroupdiscussionvia telephone,videochatoremailfor
familyandfriendstodiscussholidaycelebrations.
–Giveyourselfpermissiontodo onlywhatyoucanreasonably manage.
–Familiarizeotherswithyoursituationbywritingaletterore-mail.
Involve the person living with Alzheimer’s
–Involvethepersoninsafe,manageableholidaypreparationactivitiesthattheyenjoy.Askthemto helpyoupreparefood,wrappackages,helpdecorateorsetthetable. (Avoidusingcandies,artificial fruitsandvegetablesasdecorations becauseapersonlivingwithdementiamightconfusethemwith realfood.Blinkinglightsmayalso confusetheperson.)
–Maintaintheperson’snormal routineasmuchaspossible. –Buildontraditionsandmemo-
An elderlycouple walksdown ahall inEaston, Pa.Research suggestsmany American adults inaccuratelyestimate their chances fordeveloping dementia and do useless things to prevent it.
ries.Yourfamilymembermayfind comfortincontinuingtraditions, butyoumayalsowanttoexperimentwithnewtraditionsthat mightbelessstressfulorabetterfit withyourcaregivingresponsibilities.
Adapt gift giving
–Advisepeoplenottogivegifts suchasdangeroustoolsorinstruments,utensils,challengingboard games,complicatedelectronicsor pets.
–Dependingontheperson’sabilitiesandpreferences,involvethem ingift-giving.Forexample, someonewhoonceenjoyedbaking mayenjoyhelpingtomakecookies andpackthemintins,ortheymay enjoywrappingagift.
–Iffriendsorfamilymembers askyouwhatyou’dlikeforagift, youmightsuggestagiftcertificate orsomethingthatwillhelpmake thingseasier,likehousecleaning, lawn,handymanorlaundryservices;orascheduledvisitwiththe personforanafternoonsoyoucan havesometimeoff.
–Providepeoplewithsuggestionsforusefulandenjoyablegifts
foryourlovedone,suchasanidentificationbraceletormembershipin awanderingresponseservice.Or, suggestcomfortable,easy-to-removeclothing;favoritemusic; photoalbumsoffamilyandfriends; orfavorite.Ifyourlovedoneisno longerabletoread,youshouldconsideravoidingbooksasagiftas well.
Try to be flexible –
Celebrateoverlunchorbrunch,
ratheraneveningmeal,soyoucan workaroundtheeveningconfusion (sundowning)ifitaffectsthe personlivingwithdementia.
–Considerservingnonalcoholic beveragesandkeepingtheroom bright.
–Prepareforpost-holidayletdown.Arrangeforin-homecareso youcanrest,enjoyamovieorhave lunchwithafriend,andreduce post-holidaystressandfatigue.
TheAlzheimer’sAssociationis
During her multiple weekly visits to see her aunt Marguerite Johnson, 89, right, who has dementia, at her assisted living facility, Sue Lenfest, of South Woodstock, left, would take her basket in progress as a way to engage Johnson, and other residents of the memory care unit. Lenfest encourages her aunt to pull a strip of ash taught while reinforcing the rim of a basket in Woodstock, Vt. Valley News file
availableatnocost,24/7,toassist youyear-round,butespecially aroundtheholidays.Youcanreach theAlzheimer’sAssociation’sBedford,NH,officebycalling1-800272-3900.Andyoucanvisit www.alz.org/MANHtofindout whentheyareofferingtheirlive “NavigatingtheHolidays”presentation.
MelissaGrenieristheNewHampshireregionalmanagerforthe Alzheimer’sAssociation.
Our success depends on amazing volunteers, and we need you to join us. If you are over 55 and live near Merrimack County and like to drive or shop, we would like your help with our Caregivers Program to help frail seniors maintain their independence.
Please reach out so that we can learn more about you and how we can work together to help our most vulnerable citizens.
pain management
Staying active and pain-free
Managing low back pain as you age
By VACHE HAMBARDZUMYAN, SHAWN HARRINGTON and TERRENCE McNAMARA MonadnockCommunityHospital
Asweage,stayingactiveiscrucial formaintainingourhealthandindependence.
However,lowbackpainoftenbecomesacommonissue,limiting mobilityandhinderingeveryday tasks.Fortunately,withafewadjustments,youcanmanageback painandcontinueenjoyinganactivelifestyle.
Walking isa simple,low-impact activity that strengthens your lower back and boosts circulation.
SUPERHEROES AT EVERY AGE
At Concord Imaging Center, we're here when you need us—whether it's an injury, a routine check-up, or staying on top of your health. With our advanced X-rays, MRIs, and more, we provide the diagnostic power you need to keep moving forward.
Stay strong, stay active, and let us help you keep living life like the superhero you are!
Understanding low back pain
Lowbackpaincanresultfrom musclestrain,arthritis,discissues orpoorposture.Forolderadults,it canreducemobilityandincrease theriskoffalls.Addressingback painearlythroughproperexercise andbodymechanicscanhelppreventitfrombecomingachronic issue.
Safe exercises for back health
Exercisehelpsstrengthenmuscles,improveflexibility,andsupportthespine.Considertheselowimpactoptionstokeepyourback strong:
1.Walking:Asimple,low-impact activitythatstrengthensyourlower backandboostscirculation.Ensure yourfootwearisnewerandofgood quality.Walking/hikingpolescan helpwithstability,posture,andbalance.
2.GentleStretching:Regular stretchingcanrelievetensionand improveflexibility.Donotbetoo aggressivewithstretching,alight stretchisusuallysufficient.
If back pain persists despite home care, consider seeing your primary care physician or an appropriate specialist (physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist or orthopedic spine specialist). Physical modalities such as massage, acupuncture, and spinal manipulation can also be helpful, but it is usually wise to seek consultation first to exclude more serious issues before moving forward with hands-on treatment.
3.CoreStrengthening:Exercises likepelvictiltsandplankshelpsupportyourspine.
4.WaterAerobics:Thebuoyancy ofwaterreducesjointstrainwhile allowingforfullmovement.
Beforestartinganynewroutine, consultyourhealthcareprovider, especiallyifyouexperienceback pain.
Ergonomic tips for outdoor activities
Yardworkandfallcleanupcan strainyourback.Herearesometips
toprotectyourspineduringoutdoortasks:
1.MaintainGoodPosture:Keep yourbackstraightwhileworking, andbendyourkneestoliftobjects. Ratherthantwistingyourspine whenperformingactivitiestoeitherside,turnyourwholebodyand shiftyourfeettofacethetaskdirectly,avoidingtwistingandlifting simultaneously.
2.UseProperTools:Choosetools withlonghandlestominimize bendingandreducestrain.
3.LiftSafely:Alwaysliftwith
yourlegs,keepingheavyobjects closetoyourbody.
4.TakeBreaks:Restevery20-30 minutestopreventmusclefatigue andstiffness.
When to seek help
Ifbackpainpersistsdespitehome care,considerseeingyourprimary carephysicianoranappropriate specialist(physicalmedicineand rehabilitationspecialistororthopedicspinespecialist).Physical modalitiessuchasmassage, acupuncture,andspinalmanipulationcanalsobehelpful,butitis usuallywisetoseekconsultation firsttoexcludemoreseriousissues beforemovingforwardwithhandsontreatment.
Byincorporatingsafeexercises andpracticinggoodbodymechanics,youcanmanagelowback painandcontinueenjoyinganactive,independentlife.
VacheHambardzumyan,MD,PhD, FEBS,ShawnP.Harrington,MD, FAAPMR,andTerrenceMcNamara, DO,FAAPMR,FABPMareorthopedicspecialistsatMonadnockOrthopaedicAssociates,helpingour communitystayactiveandhealthyas theyage.
Stay active in all aspects of life
By L. PHILLIPS RUNYON III
Thisspecialsectiononactive agingencompassesalotmorethan stayingphysicallyactivethrough walks,yogaandpilates.Afterall,we canonlyplaysomanyroundsof golfandthegolfseasonisjustafew monthsoftheyearintheMonadnockRegion.
Italsomeansstayingactiveinthe community,throughvolunteer workforthemanynon-profitorganizationsthatdosuchgoodwork andbyservingontownboardsand committeesthatalwaysneedmemberswithexperienceandjudgment.
Inourownfamilies,wecanalso makeanactivecontribution.We canmentorourgrandchildren aboutthevalueswe’velearnedover manymoreyearsthanthey’vehad. Wecantaketripswiththemtoimportantplacesthatsendamessage oftheirown.Acouplethatcome righttomindaretheTenementMu-
seuminNewYorkCity,whereour grandchildrencanseehowdifficult lifewasforfamiliesinearliertimes –andperhapsgainsomeappreciationforwhatwehavethesedays, evenifourphonesandcomputers aren’tabsolutelythelatestmodels.
Orperhapstheveterans’cemetery nearConcord,whereouryoung peoplecangetasenseofthesacrificesourNewHampshiresoldiers madetoprotecttheworldourfamiliesarenowabletoenjoy. Finally,wecanhelpouryounger
generationsgetafinancialstartin lifewithoutbeingterriblyburdened withcrushingstudentloans.Keep inmindthatanypaymentswemake fortheireducationexpensescanbe madewithoutthosecontributions evenbeingconsideredgifts.And paymentofthoseexpensesnow willbemuchmorevaluablethan havingthemwaituntilwe’regone andtheloanshavealreadytaken theirtoll.Therearelotsofotherfinancialwaystohelp,too,anda qualifiedadvisorcanhelpsort throughtheavailableoptions.
So,let’sallstayasactiveand helpfulaswecanonallfronts.My latemotheralwayssaid,“we’re goingtobedeadforalongtime,so weoughttomakeasmuchofadifferenceaswecanwhilewe’vegot theopportunity!”
L.PhillipsRunyonIIIhaspracticed lawinPeterboroughfor50yearsand wasthepresidingjusticeofthe8th CircuitCourt.
Senior Real Estate Specialist
SUSAN ROEMER can be your starting point when your weighing your options for your living situation.
Susan’s 21 years of Selling Real Estate in the Capital Region and her Senior Real Estate Specialist Designation empowers her to be your source. Susan can guide you with grace, confidence and professionalism with difficult life choices, decisions to age in place or when to sell, where to go.
Call or email Susan for a no-obligation consultation 603-491-0833 | sroemer@masiello.com
Masiello Group 4 Park Street, Concord NH 03301
Direct 603-491-0833 Office 603-228-0151
both low-cost and FREE classes and you don’t have to pay for a membership!
Courtesy
Henry Homeyer of Cornish, N.H. works with his grandkids in the garden.
The best is yet to be! Engage in Creative Aging with Heather Bigelow Hearne, R-DMT
By LYNNE SABEAN FortheMonitor
ManyknowConcordCommunity MusicSchoolasawelcomingplace toenjoylessons,classes,workshops,andrecitals.Butfewerare awarethattheschoolalsohasarobustExpressiveArtsTherapydepartment,wheremusicisused withinatherapeuticrelationshipto addressaperson’sphysical,emotional,cognitive,andsocialneeds.
Tolearnmore,IrecentlyaccompaniedCCMS’sDanceMovement TherapistHeatherBigelowHearne toaMovementandSongfor MemoryandMobilityclassata localassistedlivingcommunity.We wereledintoalargeroomwhere abouttwodozenchairsweresetina largeoval.Thirteenresidentsattendedtheclass,abouthalfwith cognitiveissues.Duringtheclass, Heatherispartcheerleader,part denmother,and100%investedin creating“wowmoments.”(Andnotably,sheexplainedtotheparticipantsthevalidphysicalandneurologicalpurposeofeachexercise.)
Isattotheleftof“Amanda,”a smallwomanwithbrighteyeswho smiledwithherentirebody.Iasked
movement
herifsheenjoyedmusic.Sheenthusiasticallyanswered“YES!,”then gotupfromherchairtodancein place.
Heatheraskedeachpersonto playawoodenAfricandrumwhile sayingtheirnamethreetimes.After wewereabouthalfwayaroundthe circle,Iconfessedtothewomanto myleft–let’scallher“Sally”–that I’dalreadyforgottenthefirstfew names.Sheplacedherhandon mineandgentlyreassuredmethatI wasn’ttheonlyabsent-mindedone.
During the class, Heather is part cheerleader, part den mother, and 100% invested in creating “wow moments.”
Dance therapistHeather Biegelow Hearne teaches amusic and movement class in Pittsfield on Friday, December 1, 2023.
NEWSLETTERS NEWSLEETTTTE
Theclassthendidsome livelychairdancingto “WalkingonSunshine.”Together,welookedlikeagiant centipede,witharmsandlegs movingineverydirection. Afterthat,weengagedinsome memorywork,whereeach personusedtheirbodyasa musicalinstrument.Theroom rangoutwiththesoundof handsslappingonthighs.
Heatherthenhadeach personpickamaracaandplay alongwithherrenditionof “BananaBoat.”Amandamoved energeticallybackandforthto themusicwhileshakingher colorfully-paintedwooden rattle.HerresponsewasexactlywhatHeatherwastrying toelicit:physicalmovement, feelingpartofthegroup,and engagingmusically.Onmy otherside,Sallysaidthe maracaplayingmadeherfeel “likealittlekid.“WhenIasked ifthatwasagoodthing,her
facebrightenedandsheeagerlyreplied,“Oh,yes!”
Astheyplayed,Heatherencouragedtheresidentstotalk abouttheirformerprofessions. Thesongtookonnewmeaning asthehealthcareworkerwas “goinghome”aftermaking peoplehealthierallday,the dairyfarmerwas“goinghome” afterproducingmilkandother dairyproducts,etc.
Heatherthenplayedthe Ghanaiantraditionalfolksong “TueTue”andencouragedattendeestosingandplayalong. Afterthatwasarecordingof “Groovin’(onaSundayAfternoon.”)Heatheraskedattendeestoimaginethemselvesout onthewaterinaboat.
Wheredidtheyrowoffto? Whatbirdsdidtheysee?What typeoffishdidtheycatch?
Nextupwasadrumming circle.Asthedrumwaspassed frompersontoperson, Heatheraskedtheresidents howtheyfeltatthatverymo-
HeatherBigelowHearne leadsamusictherapy classatConcord Community Music School.
mentandtoexpressitinrhythm.Some saidtheydidn’tknowhowtheyfelt untilheardthesoundstheymadewith thedrum.
Heatherfollowedupwithmore guidedimagery,askingthegroupto imagineblowingonafluffywhitedandelionandmakingthreewishes.While wekeptourwishestoourselves,there weremanysmilestobeseen.
Shethenhadtheclasssingalongwith herto“RazzamaTazzama”(“Bimbom. Bimbom.Razza-ma,tazza-ma.Tish tosh,tishtosh.Wallywoowoo”)while movingtheirbodies.WhenHeather askedAmandawhichphraseormovementwasherfavorite,Amandaleaned forwardinherchair,slappedboth handsonherthighs,andloudlyexclaimed,“Allofthem!”
WhenHeatherandIleft,staffwas settingupforHappyHour,anevent held“everytwoweeksorso.”Andin keepingwithourclass’s“youngat heart”attitude,everyoneisrequiredto showtheirIDbeforebeingserved.No exceptions.
LynneSabeanisDevelopmentandMarketingDirectorforConcordCommunity MusicSchool.LearnmoreaboutCCMS’s ExpressiveArtsTherapyprogramsatccmusicschool.org.
COURTESY
Heather Bigelow Hearne leads a music therapy class at Concord Community Music School.
‘Weekend warriors’ may gain same benefits
By LAURA WILLIAMSON AmericanHeartAssociationNews
Weekendwarriors–peoplewho packmostoftheirphysicalactivity intooneortwodays–maygainthe samehealth-protectivebenefitsas peoplewhoexercisethroughoutthe week,aslongastheygettherecommendedamount,newresearch finds.
Thestudyfoundregardlessof whetherpeopleconcentratedtheir 150minutesofmoderatetovigorousphysicalactivityoverashort periodoftimeorstretcheditout overtheweek,theriskfellformore than200diseasesoverthenextsix years,withthestrongestassociationsfoundamongcardiometabolic conditionssuchashighbloodpressureanddiabetes.
Thefindingswerepublishedin theAmericanHeartAssociation journalCirculationandpresentedat theGermanCardiacSociety’sHeart DaysconferenceinHamburg.
“Thebottomlineisthatit’sreally thetotalvolumeofphysicalactivity,
ratherthanthepattern,thatmatters,”saidDr.ShaanKhurshid,the study’sco-seniorauthorandacardiacelectrophysiologistatMassachusettsGeneralHospitalin Boston.“Theimportantthingisthat yougetyourrecommendedlevels ofphysicalactivity.Ifonetotwo daysaweekworksforyou,you’re stillgoingtogetthatbenefit.”
Physicalactivityhasbeenshown toreducetheriskofcardiovascular andotherdiseases.Federalphysical activityguidelinesrecommend adultsengageinatleast150minutesofmoderate-intensityphysical activityor75minutesofvigorousintensityphysicalactivityeach week,oracombinationofboth.
There’slittleguidance,however, onhowthatactivityshouldbe spreadthroughouttheweek.
Inthestudy,researchersinvestigatedwhetherso-calledweekend warriors,whogetmostoftheir
physicalactivityoveraone-ortwodayperiodandarelargelyinactive therestoftheweek,wouldgetthe samehealthbenefitsaspeoplewho spreadtheir150minutesofexercise throughouttheweek.
UsingdatafromtheUKBiobank,a largedatabasecontaininggeneticand medicalinformationonvolunteersin theUnitedKingdom,researchersanalyzedphysicalactivitylevelsand diseaseprevalencefor89,573people whowereanaverage62yearsold. Physicalactivitywasmeasuredusing wrist-basedaccelerometersthatparticipantsworeforoneweek.They alsotrackedthedevelopmentof678 diseasesoveramedian6.3yearsof follow-up,includingcirculatory,digestive,skin,endocrine/metabolic, kidney,infectious,musculoskeletal andneurologicaldiseases,alongwith cancers,mentalhealthdisordersand injuries.
Amongparticipantswhometthe
recommendedweeklyamountof physicalactivity,thosewhoexercisedthroughouttheweekachieved amedianof418minutes.Weekend warriors,however,weresubstantiallymoreactiveinashorterperiod,withamedianof288minutes. Comparedtopeoplewhodidnot meettherecommendedamountof exerciseperweek,beingaweekend warriorwasassociatedwithareducedriskfor264healthconditions andbeingactivethroughoutthe weekwasassociatedwithalower riskfor205conditions.
Thestrongestassociationsbetweenphysicalactivityandlower diseaseriskwerefoundamongcardiometabolicconditions,including amorethan20%lowerriskforhigh bloodpressure,morethan40% lowerriskfordiabetesandsleep apnea,andaroughly50%lowerrisk forobesity.Therewerenosignificantdifferencesindiseaseriskreductionbetweenweekendwarriors andweeklongexerciserswhenthey werecompareddirectly.
Help Button Should GoWhere You Go!
in the home or on the go. A
prescriptions
Survey: 89% of older Americans taking prescriptions
By HANNAH DOCTER-LOEB ForTheWashingtonPost
Nearly90percentofadultsover 65tookprescriptionmedicationin theprevious12monthsin2021and 2022,accordingtoarecentreport bytheCentersforDiseaseControl andPrevention.
Drawingondatafromthe2021 and2022NationalHealthInterview Survey,thereportfocusedon
17,706adults65andolder.Accordingtotheanalysis,88.6percent ofolderadultstookprescription medicationsintheprevious12 months.
Usewassimilarformenand women,buthigherforthose75and abovethanthose65to74.White olderadultswerealsomorelikely thanBlack,HispanicandAsian adultstotakeprescriptionmedica-
tion.Thestudyalsofoundthat82.7 percentofolderadultshadprescriptiondrugcoverageandthat coveragewashigheramongmen, Whiteadultsandthosewithhigher incomes.
alsoassessedreasonsfornotgetting ortakingprescriptionmedication.
Alittleovertwo-thirdsofolder adultshadprivateprescriptioncoverage(i.e.,aprivatehealthinsuranceplanorMedicarePartD), while14percenthadpublicprescriptioncoverage(i.e.,Medicaidor otherpubliccoverage).
Thosewithoutprescriptiondrug coverageweremorelikelytonot takemedicationandtonotgetor nottakemedicationasprescribed becauseofcost.Theresearchers
Thereportshowedthat3.6percentofolderadultsdidnotgetmedicationbecauseofthehighcost,and 3.4percentofolderadultsdidnot takemedicationasprescribedbecauseofthecost.“Cost-relatednonadherence”wassixtimeshigher amongolderadultswhowerefood insecureandmorethantwiceas likelyamongolderadultswithfair orpoorhealthordisabilitiesthan thoseinbetterhealth.
“Thesefindingsmayinformeffortstoreducedisparitiesinhealthcareaccessandhealthoutcomesfor olderadults,”theauthorswrote.
45 Main Street
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L. Phillips Runyon III Jaran R. Blessing Jac
Peterborough, NH 03458 (603) 924-3050 www.runyonlawoffice.com
Concentrating on Estate Planning
Concentrating on Estate Planning
L. Phillips Runyon III Jaran R. Blessing
Probate and Trust Administration
Jacqueline M. Blessing
Real Estate and Business Law 45 Main Street
Probate and Trust Administration Real Estate and Business Law
and Business Law
Concentrating on Estate Planning
Probate and Trust Administration
Real Estate and Business Law
New Hampshire has a workforce crisis affecting all health care providers. When our state only provides a 2.9% Medicaid funding increase for nursing home care, as compared to a 30% wage increase for prison nursing staff, it begins to make sense why around 1,200 registered nurses leave New Hampshire to work in states where they're more valued, like Massachusetts. Let's get our priorities straight!
