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August 2015 • Volume 2/Issue 8
The Elephant Rope As a man was passing the elephants, he suddenly stopped, confused by the fact that these huge creatures were being held by only a small rope tied to their front leg. No chains, no cages. It was obvious that the elephants could, at anytime, break away from their bonds but for some reason, they did not. He saw a trainer nearby and asked why these animals just stood there and made no attempt to get away. “Well,” trainer said, “when they are very young and much smaller we use the same size rope to tie them and, at that age, it’s enough to hold them. As they grow up, they are conditioned to believe they cannot break away. They believe the rope can still hold them, so they never try to break free.” The man was amazed. These animals could at any time
break free from their bonds but because they believed they couldn’t, they were stuck right where they were. Like the elephants, how many of us go through life hanging onto a belief that we cannot do something, simply because we failed at it once before? Failure is part of learning; we should never give up the struggle in life.
Cover: Chris Owens Pg. 16 by: Mary Bounds Photo by Bach Imagery
Table of Contents New & Notes / Page 6-8 Money Matters /Page 7 by Mike Rich Walgreens: Flu Season /Page 10 by Christine Tran, RPH Types of Sleep /Page 14 by Jessica Moreau Spiritual Maturity /Page 15 by Larry McEwen
Never give up, and be confident in what you do. There may be tough times, but the difficulties which you face will make you more determined to achieve your objectives and to win against all the odds. -Marta
Summer Vacations /Page 22 by Michelle Grace Tapire Caring for Caregivers /Page 24 by Mary Bounds, RNC Raymond Curtis /Page 26 by Dr. Tom Hardin Healthy Aging /Page 28 by Seymour Weaver
For Senior Living Magazine Advertsing Information-
Senior Sampler /Page 30 by Michelle Carollo
Please contact: Mary West at (504) 610-1051 or email to MaryWest2@aol.com
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Staff Publishers Michelle Carollo & Kelly Walgamotte Editor Lana Walgamotte
Account Executive Mary West
Contributing Writers Lisa Bologna Lisa Clement Mary Bounds Mike Rich
Chief Designer Chris Tiblier
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Photographer Bach Imagery
Senior Living is published monthly P.O. Box 752, Slidell, LA 70459. Copyright 2015 by Senior Living. No part of this publication can be reproduced without the written, expressed consent of the publisher. Reproduction of editorial content or graphics in any manner or in any medium is prohibited. Opinions of staff & contributing writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. For advertising information, contact Senior Living business department at 985-778-6171 or e-mail at seniorlivingmagla@gmail.com.
Michelle Carollo 985-445-3644 Kelly Walgamotte (985) 778-6171
Letters to the Editor are Welcome – send signed letters to: P.O. Box 752, Slidell, LA 70459. Please include a phone number for verification (it will not be published). E-mail letters to seniorlivingmagla@gmail.com. The Editor reserves the right to edit for length, style and spelling. Postmaster: Send address changes to Senior Living P.0. Box 752, Slidell, LA 70459
A Broken Heart Breaks Your Heart, Literally
NOTES & NEWS Neurobics for Your Mind Get your brain fizzing with energy. American researchers coined the term ‘neurobics’ for tasks which activate the brain's own biochemical pathways and to bring new pathways online that can help to strengthen or preserve brain circuits. Brush your teeth with your ‘other’ hand, take a new route to work or choose your clothes based on sense of touch rather than sight. People with mental agility tend to have lower rates of Alzheimer's disease and age-related mental decline.
Baby Boomers: Live Longer, But Not Healthier As each generation gets older they like to think that they are healthier than the previous generation, however, the baby boomers are now unable to confidently make this claim. The new findings were published in JAMA Internal Medicine, in a study conducted by a group of researchers from the West Virginia University School of Medicine. The study revealed that a portion of the baby boomer generation, specifically the 78 million Americans who were born in the post-war baby boom from 1946 to 1964, were less healthy than most of their parents.
As of 2010, the baby boomers made up 26.1 percent of the U.S. population. Historically, the baby boomer population has been labeled the "healthiest generation", due to their long life expectancy and their ability to take advantage of the newest medical care and public health campaigns. However, this label may no longer apply because studies are now showing that baby boomers have more elevated levels of certain conditions than the previous generation, including obesity, high cholesterol, diabetes, and hypertension.
According to an article published in Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association, heart attack risk after bereavement is much higher for several weeks after the loss. The day the loved one dies, the risk of a heart attack is a stunning twenty one times higher. The article also warns friends and family to look for signs of heart failure in the bereaved person, ensuring they relax and maintain any medication regime they may be on. The study was conducted with nearly 2000 adult heart attack survivors and while the risk of a heart problem declined over the first month, it still remained at six times the normal risk during the first week after a loved one died.
New report:
by Mike Rich
CFP® LPL Financial Advisor
Diabetes Costs The uS $245 Billion A Year Diagnosed diabetes cost the United States an estimated $245 billion in 2012, according to new research released by the American Diabetes Association (ADA) this week. The new figure represents a 41% rise in five years. In 2007, when the cost were last estimated, it came to $174 billion. A report on the research, commissioned by the ADA, was published online. The study examines the increased financial cost, use of health resources and productivity that is lost due to diabetes in 2012, and breaks down the figures by gender, race/ethnicity, for the whole country and state by state. The $245 billion includes $176 in direct medical costs (such as hospital and emergency care, visits to the doctor, and medications), and an estimated $69 billion resulting from indirect costs like absenteeism, reduced productivity, diabetes-related job loss, and productivity loss due to premature deaths. The rate of diabetes has reached epidemic proportions in the US, where nearly 26 million adults and children have the serious, life-threatening disease, and another 79 million are estimated to have prediabetes, a cluster of risk factors that puts them at greater risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
High Blood PrESSurE High blood pressure is a common and dangerous condition. But you can take steps to control your blood pressure and lower your risk. Having high blood pressure means the pressure of the blood in your blood vessels is higher than it should be. About 1 in 3 U.S. adults— or 67 million people—have high blood pressure. Only about half (47%) of people with high blood pressure have their condition under control. This common condition increases the risk for heart disease and stroke, two leading causes of death for Americans. High blood pressure is called the “silent killer” because it often has no warning signs or symptoms, and many people don’t know they have it. That’s why it’s important to check your blood pressure regularly.
Picture this: Paint a new financial outlook for yourself. There’s no better time than right now to make a positive change in the way you look at money. Consider these financial pictures: 1. Picture yourself paying for an emergency repair at your house without having to use a credit card. One of the foundations of a solid financial plan is to make sure you have enough cash on hand to handle emergencies. Out there in the financial world, you can read all kinds of guidance about having two, three, or six months of living expenses on hand in cash. If that seems overwhelming, then start with a few bucks in a jar in your kitchen cabinet. Build it up every month from there, and keep it only for emergencies. (Note: a Saints weekend in New Orleans is not an emergency.) 2. Picture yourself receiving a check in the mail every month for the rest of your life. If you don’t have an employer pension, you can build the same type of guaranteed income for yourself. One way is by using fixed annuities. 1 Ignore the doomsday stories about annuities. They can be powerful financial tools. To find out how to use them, call us. 3. Picture yourself with a “permission slip” to spend your assets freely during retirement so you can enjoy them more. By using plain old, boring whole life insurance, you might be able to increase your cash flow during retirement. The way this can work is simple: the death benefit is designed to pay to your beneficiary all or much of the money you spent previously. This is a pretty cool strategy, and a lot of people don’t know how incredibly useful it can be when it comes to providing for a surviving
spouse. Now you do. Call us to find out if it can work for you. 4. Picture yourself at a time when you can no longer take care of yourself. Seven out of ten of us are going to need some type of long term care,2 and the costs are shaping up to be staggering. How will you pay for your care – which could last for several years – without ruining your retirement and maybe putting your spouse in a financial pickle? If you don’t have good answers for these questions, call us and we’ll help you figure it out. So, if your financial picture looks incomplete, it’s not too late to start work on a new one. We’ll be happy to help. 1 Benefits depend on the claims paying ability of the issuing company. 2 Probability of needing LTC: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services National Clearinghouse for Long Term Care Information, 10/22/08 Securities and Advisory Services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC.
Mike Rich, CFP® LPL Financial Advisor, Pontchartrain Investment Management, 2242 Carey Street, Slidell, LA 70458 985605-5064
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NOTES & NEWS FDA Approves Medical robot For Hospital use A robot that allows patients to communicate with doctors via a telemedicine system that can move around on its own has received 510(k) clearance by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration). The robot, called RP-VITA, was created by InTouch Health and iRobot and allows doctors from anywhere in the world to communicate with patients at their hospital bedside via a telemedicine solution through an iPad interface. According to iRobot and InTouch Health, RP-VITA combines the latest from iRobot in autonomous navigation and mobility technology with state-of-the-art telemedicine, and InTouch Health developed telemedicine and electronic health record integration. RP-VITA makes it possible for doctors to have "doctorto-patient consults, ensuring that the physician is in the right place at the right time and has access to the necessary clinical information to take immediate action."
The robot is used in ways that scientists have never before seen. In order to not get in the way of other people or objects, it outlines its own environment and utilizes a range of advanced sensors to autonomously move about a crowded space. Irrespective of a doctor's location, using an intuitive iPad速 interface allows them to visit patients and communicate with their co-workers with a single click.
Is it flu season already? by Christine Tran, RPH
hen flu season rolls around, sometimes we wonder, “Should I get a flu shot?” The answer is always yes! Your body can always use a little help to fight off illness. You should also get additional vaccines that can prevent other types of common sicknesses, such as pneumonia and shingles. Even though it’s summer, the holidays will be here before you know it. Why spend it being under the weather? The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus, which is commonly spread through water droplets from coughing and sneezing. Some symptoms include high fever and muscle aches. It affects every person of every age, but the flu can be worse in older adults because our immune system weakens as we age. However, it can be preventable if you are vaccinated every year. The flu vaccine is updated every year to ensure effectiveness against the current and constantly evolving influenza virus. For patients who are 60 and older, receiving a higher dose of the flu shot for is recommended for extra protection. Another common preventable illness is pneumonia, which is an infection of the lungs that can cause mild to severe illness in people of all ages. Some serious complications of pneumonia includes respiratory failure, bacteria in the blood, and lung abscesses. It’s more common in older patients in nursing homes or with certain chronic conditions. All patients over 65 should receive pneumonia protection. There are now two different vaccines that you need to have for the best protection. Stop in and speak to your Walgreens pharmacist for more information. Patients who had the chicken pox need the shingles shot because the same virus that causes chicken pox causes shingles. The chicken pox virus lies dormant in the nerves of the spine. It is unclear how the virus reactivates, but the shingles usually appears
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as a very painful, blistering rash on one side of the body. It can be very painful and lead to future problems. Experts recommend a one-time shot after the age of 60. The shingles vaccine can decrease your risk of having shingles by about 50 percent or at least minimize severity. Even though these illnesses can make life a little complicated, getting vaccinated is easy! The next time you’re at your local Walgreens pharmacy, stop and ask to get vaccinated.
Christine Tran, RPH
Are you getting harmful sleep or healthy sleep? by: Jessica Moreau
SMH Sleep Disorders Center Supervisor
Sleep is so obvious, it is often overlooked, even by physicians. However, sleep is as fundamental as diet and exercise for your health. Medical research reveals that the kind of sleep you get affects you far more than previously realized. Healthy sleep is so important to help you maintain your mental and physical health. Several vital functions occur while you are asleep, such as the production of hormones that are responsible for kids’ development. For adults, such hormones help build muscle mass, fight infections and repair cells. Mental functions also occur during sleep; these processes even affect your ability to learn or recall memories. Conversely, harmful sleep can cause or complicate many health problems. Millions of Americans are completely unaware of how their sleep has an impact on their quality of life. People with sleep-related breathing disorders are at higher risk for heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure, and even premature death. Harmful sleep can also cause de-
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pression, weight gain, forgetfulness, fatigue p.m., will discuss how lack of sleep affects your weight. and inability to concentrate. Participants are welcome to a free blood If you suspect that you do have a sleep disorder, talk to your physi- pressure screening and CPAP or BI-PAP cian to see what you can do to pressure checks. Please call (985) 280-8823 for more information. get healthy sleep. The Slidell Memorial Hospital Some sleep disorders are obvious, but Sleep Disorders Center can evaluothers are more elusive to diagnose. ate and treat many Common symptoms of sleep disorders sleep disorders through physician include: referral or through self-referral. The Sleep Disorders Center offers • Loud and/or irregular snoring a private, home-like setting and a • Excessive daytime sleepiness highly skilled team that specializes in the science of sleep. • Depressed or uneasy mood Additionally, the SMH Sleep • Pauses in breathing during sleep Disorders Center offers Sleepy in Slidell, an educational program on • Inability to fall asleep or maintain sleep various sleep topics. The next Sleepy in Slidell, on August 25 at 6
Spiritual Maturity by Dr. Larry T. McEwen
O
ne way to gage spiritual maturity is by looking at your priorities in life. A spiritually mature person has a keen understanding of what really matters most in this life. It occurred to me some years ago that the most important things in life are not things at all, but relationships: relationships with family, friends, coworkers, and most importantly, God. If a person is maturing spiritually, he or she will become increasingly aware of what needs to be placed at the top of the things to do list and what needs to move down the list or even be removed from the list! So many people allow their hearts and minds to be controlled by temporary, not so important, trivial things, which, at the end of the day, don’t really matter. The problem is this--the days add up and turn into years of misplaced priorities and missed opportunities to focus on things that are less temporal and more eternal. Knowing how to spend our time, talents and resources in ways we can truly feel good about, and in ways that will endure for an eternity requires a heavenly perspective. So where do we get this perspective? We ask God to give us a glimpse into heaven through prayer and reading His Word. We let God help us be willing to change our priorities if they have been misplaced. We decide to let God interrupt our agenda at any time with opportunities to make an eternal difference in someone’s life! We allow God to redirect our hearts and our minds from things that won’t last to things that will outlast our earthly lives. God’s Word puts it beautifully. Colossians 3:1-4 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
Dr. Larry McEwen is a graduate of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary with a Doctor of Ministry degree in Leadership and has over thirty years of ministry experience.
by: Mary Bounds
Chris Owens, the beauti-
ful, talented and ever-exhilarating first lady of the French Quarter, has enchanted audiences for more than fifty years with her energetic, electrifying shows and infectious flair for fun. Week after week, Owens continues to work the crowd, providing her Bourbon Street fans with a fun-filled cabaret act, duly acclaimed as “first-class entertainment”. Yet when this ravenhaired nurse from Texas moved to New Orleans, no one dreamed she would stake claim to center stage and build an amazing dynasty through her dazzling song and dance.
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or most of her adult life, people have referred to Chris Owens as a Louisiana legend. A true businesswoman, entrepreneur and internationally acclaimed star, Owens has remained at the top of her game for five decades. Her innate ability to survive and thrive has left other performers scratching their heads, curiously asking, “How does she do it?” Owens’ response is straightforward, “It takes a lot of determination, and I enjoy what I do!” As she discusses her longevity in a competitive, challenging industry, the seasoned artist also points out that she has never been a stripper. “Absolutely not. I am an entertainer, and I have always kept my clothes on!” Owens takes pride in having a clean-cut show, appealing to a broad variety of people. Raised on the farmlands of rural Texas, Christine Shaw grew up as one of eight siblings. Her family was noted to be musically gifted, yet Chris chose an alternate path and pursued a career in nursing. After completing school, Chris moved to New Orleans to be near her
older sister. It was there where she met and married Sol Owens, the successful automobile dealer who literally swept her off her feet (both on and off the dance floor). While reminiscing about her marriage to this incredible man, Owens eloquent voice pauses, then exudes a soft, tender quality, “Sol was the world to me. I feel like my life started the day I met Sol Owens.” As newlyweds, Sol and Chris enjoyed lavish vacations in Havana, Cuba where they danced to the beat of Latin music in spectacular clubs such as the Tropicana. Incredibly their love for the Latin dance style set the stage for Owens’ eventual career in entertainment. Crowds loved to watch this dynamic couple dance when they visited New Orleans night spots such as the Blue Room or Fountain Lounge in the old Roosevelt Hotel. Although Sol was an accomplished dancer himself, it wasn’t long before he realized his stunning wife was the main attraction. In 1957, Sol opened their first night
Chris Owens 2007 club at 809 St. Louis Street, and Chris Owens’ dancing career was officially underway. Owens’ popular dance club took New Orleans by storm.
Continued
With Latin dancing being their draw, Owens built a stage and placed Mambo dancers behind her. Then to heighten the fun she hired a bongo drummer, handed out maracas and watched the party ignite! Fans stood in line around the block to catch the headliner show featuring the rising star, Chris Owens. When this young French Quarter sensation was featured in The Saturday Evening Post and Walter Winchell’s syndicated column the offers for Broadway shows and movie contracts soon followed, but as Owens explains, “Sol was my manager, and he rightfully wanted me to stay in New Orleans. I’m glad he did.” Later when their club moved to the corner of Bourbon and St Louis Streets, Chris decided to turn up the tempo by incorporating singing into her dance ensemble. She enrolled in voice lessons and employed a back up band to further expand her overall performance. The result was nothing short of amazing; Revamping her repertoire to include singing proved to be a brilliant career catalyst for this ingenious entrepreneur. In fact, Owens popularity promptly soared both in and beyond New Orleans. Soon she was recording albums and booking performances in Las Vegas and on luxury cruise liners. Owens’ extensive travels helped advance her celebrity status and exposed her to novel ideas she later added to her Bourbon Street routine. With her rising fame, Chris’ flair for fashion and uncommonly good looks did not go unnoticed. Her elaborate outfits and trademark “big hair” became an integral part of her eye-catching image. Owens prides herself in designing all of her costumes, a practice she has maintained since learning to sew in high school Home Economics class. As for her flowing tresses, Owens is comfortable with the style, and chuckles as she adds, “I grew up on a ranch, and I always wore my hair like this. I guess it’s the country girl look!” When Sol Owens passed away in 1979, Eric Paulsen (at that time from Channel 4 News) asked Chris if she planned to retire. Her impromptu answer to Paulsen quickly put the query to rest, “Retire? I feel like I just got started!” She took over management
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of their club as well as 30 apartments and four shops located in their building. In 1982, Owens became the Grand Duchess of the French Quarter Easter Parade, which flourished under her direction into a grand New Orleans event. Still today with the help of her publicist Kitsy Adams and right hand woman the parade is a number one Easter tradition for out great city. Her performances at the French Quarter Fest and New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival have always been fan favorites. To put it in perspective, Owens even has a hot sauce named in her honor, “Chris Owens’ Bourbon Street Heat”. Indeed, when asked about retirement in 1979, Chris Owens had only just begun! Through the years people have been amazed by Owen’s unprecedented, youthful vitality which she partially credits to heredity. “I came from a family blessed with good health and was always athletic and active growing up.” In addition, the New Orleans icon exercises daily and says she adheres mostly to a vegetarian diet, “I stopped eating chicken and beef due to my love for animals, but I soon discovered the health benefits.” Her nutritious diet plan includes occasional seafood and a daily supply of freshly prepared fruit and vegetable juices. Chronological age did not enter the discussion, but most would tend to agree her overall fitness plan appears to be working! As Hurricane Katrina approached in 2005, Chris Owens had no intention of leaving her French Quarter home. After all she had been through hurricanes before, and her
Photo by: Bach Imagery building is 6 feet above sea level. After faring the storm, Chris received a frantic call from her sister in Texas, relaying breaking news about the breech of a New Orleans levee. Although floodwaters never reached her building, the French Quarter resident fully appreciated the dire situation around her. In fact, Owens became much like a Crescent City cheerleader, encouraging others through her resilient spirit and genuine, heartfelt compassion. “I knew that New Orleans would rebound from the storm and become even better!” Today she is proud to be part of a revitalized city with a rejuvenated tourist industry that she rates as “number one in the nation”. The city of New Orleans holds a special Continued on page 31
and get the results you need!
Mary West
Regional Marketing Director (504) 610-1051 MaryWest2@aol.com
It's August and you think
Washington D.C. Why is it good for summer vacations? It's because you don't need to break a bank for a memorable experience because most monuments and museums in the area are free.
New Smyrna, FL This is great for summer vacations because of its inexpensive but relaxing beach retreat. You won't have any trouble reserving a room no matter how late you are in your reservation because most of the tourists are in Daytona Beach.
Long Beach, NY Are you a New Yorker looking to run away from heat? If you are, then there's no need to look further because with a tent or a rented RV, you can be a few distance away from the park, pool and gorgeous beach.
Skidaway State Park, Savannah, GA At about $30 a night, there is no reason why this campground cannot be more crowded. With gorgeous scenery and miles of biking and hiking trails to explore, you won't lose in this place for great summer vacations.
Navarre Beach, FL This sleepy tourist town may have suffered from the Gulf Coast bad luck a few years ago. But it has not lost its appeal to the mass. This only means that you can always grab a condo or hotel at the beach & indulge in the breeze from the water.
Apple River, WI Ocean vacations may not be something to look forward to in Apple River, but you can still enjoy the water in the town's namesake river. It's such an inexpensive getaway that can be put together with one stop at the nearest supermarket for marshmallows & hot dogs.
Portola, CA Do you enjoy paddling boats? Well, August is the best time to do it now that the snow in Portola, CA is mostly gone. You can even indulge in the beautiful views without renting skis, but it's still best if you rent a 4-wheel drive.
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it's already late to plan for some summer vacations. Well, you'd better think again because there are great last minute ideas for having a great summer vacation. Read on for our top 7 last-minute ideas for great summer vacations. by: Michelle Grace Tapire
by: Mary Bounds
Caring for older parents can be an exhausting, overwhelming task, yet it can also be a deeply rewarding and meaningful part of the parent-child relationship. It is estimated that more than 20 million adult children in the U.S. alone provide on-going care for an aging parent or in-law. As a society we often fall short when it comes to acknowledging the caregiver who dedicates endless hours and energy to the needs of others. Fortunately, there is a growing advocacy today for caregivers who are providing for the daily needs of aging parents, and the resounding message is, �You have needs, too!� As a busy caregiver your personal needs can often be forgotten or perhaps deemed as secondary to those of your elderly parent. Studies have found that taking steps to care for yourself will not only improve your outlook, it will greatly enhance your ability to care for those you love. Taking care of the caregiver is a big part of the equation when it comes to assisting older parents who are dependent on your care. The physical and emotional demands of caregiving can place undue stress on even the most capable adults. Struggling to balance their own responsibilities with the needs of their aging parent, caregivers are generally left with little time for themselves. In fact, the strain of caring for others can assume a myriad of faces including anger, frustration, guilt, loneliness, exhaustion, and even illness.
Local elder resources, internet support groups and stress management courses have recently proliferated in an attempt to support adult children in the family caregiving role. Caregivers today are discovering ways to reduce stress and maintain a healthy life style while providing care for their elderly parents. By personalizing basic strategies, caregivers can initiate a self-care plan designed to meet their individual needs. Here are some ideas to get things started:
Learn to accept help from others.
Whether it is picking up medicine at the pharmacy, cooking a meal, or weeding the garden, let family and friends be part of the solution. In addition, ask for help when you truly need it. Many caregivers find it difficult to ask for assistance; yet other people are often unaware when you need a helping hand. Chances are if you ask, others will be happy to help!
Pay attention to your own health care. It is difficult to provide for someone else when your own heath is lagging. Keep up with annual check-ups, flu-shots and follow-up care and include exercise as part to your routine. If a gym membership is out of the question, buy a second-hand treadmill and enjoy a daily walk.
Do something for yourself.
Find the humor in life. Alleviate stress with spontaneous laughter, funny stories and light-hearted games. Laughter is said to relax the body, boost the immune system and trigger the release of endorphins. Who said life has to be so serious? Keep your sense of humor and add a little levity to the daily routine. Everyone, including you, will be glad you did.
No matter how small it may seem, get a pedicure, visit a museum, or enjoy the company of a friend over coffee. Remove yourself from the caregiver role and focus on your life for even one hour a week. A short, routine respite can provide stimulating social interaction and keep you looking forward to your next enjoyable outing.
Learn to briefly walk away when you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Eat healthy.
Plan a balanced diet, focusing on fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats and fish. Choose snacks packed with energy such as nuts, trail mix or dried fruit. Finally, cook extra portions when preparing meals and freeze the left-overs. Saving time in the kitchen later can be a big plus!
Join a local or online support group for adults caring for their aging parents. Take a few moments to regroup and recharge when the situation is taxing. A personal pep-talk can works wonders when emotions run high; Remember your parent(s) is in a new role, dealing with various emotions and the loss of independence. Patience is still a virtue.
Sharing ideas with other caregivers will keep you informed and help you feel connected. Visit www.caregiveraction.org the website of Caregiver Action Network (CAN) a national, non-profit organization for caregivers. Check with your local Area Agency on Aging to identify support services and programs near you.
People are diagnosed with diseases such as prostate cancer, bladder disease, as well as skin cancer each and every day. For some that are diagnosed with such illnesses; the news is processed in the mind as a death sentence. Wills are drawn up overnight as the patient starts making amends for all wrongdoings of the past. For others who are diagnosed with these so called death sentences; they see life from a different perspective. Some actually laugh and think positive thoughts as they are lifting three hundred pound weights at the local gym.
We at Senior Living had the fortunate
by: Dr. Tom Hardin
opportunity to meet such an individual that fits the description as just described. His name is Raymond Curtis. The inspiring interview you are about to read on hope, courage and endurance epitomizes the old cliché ‘mind over matter.’ We at Senior Living hope his message will challenge you to live your life to the fullest and never give up. At eightytwo years of age, Mr. Curtis is an active weight lifter who is a member of Team U.S.A. which will be representing our great country in the World Masters Powerlifting Championship. The event will take place in Denver, Colorado from September, 28th till October, 4th. This is an international event as over twenty countries will be represented. We at Senior Living had the great privilege to interview Raymond Curtis. From his trials and tribulations to becoming a world class athlete, he has a message of hope and inspiration for people of any age.
S.L.) It is such a pleasure speaking with you. Would you be so kind to tell our readers about your background?
R.C.) I was born in South Central Texas on October 23rd in 1932. I graduated from Texas A & M with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. With my degree, I achieved a position with McDermott International where I designed and supervised the fabrication of oil pipes. I moved to New Orleans in 1961. Think I’ve been here long enough to be considered truly N'awlins. [Laughing]
S.L.)
When did you first discover that you had a passion for lifting?
R.C.) Having been the type that has always ran five miles a day, I started having trouble with my knees. I found the gym as a healthy alternative. It was a friend of mine that suggested I start working out with weights. That was about twenty years ago. I entered my first power lift competition at the age of 69. I won the state title and made it on to the nationals. There have only been two times in my life where I didn’t make it to the nationals. The first was when I lost my wife and the second was when I was diagnosed with gall bladder disease.
S.L.)
I am really sorry to hear about the loss of your wife. I am also sorry to hear about your diagnoses of gall bladder disease. We do not have to entertain these subjects for this interview as we… (Mr. Curtis politely interjected.)
R.C.) No, I would love to. Losing my wife and gall bladder disease are not the only trials I have endured. I was also diagnosed with prostate cancer as I also had a battle with skin cancer. S.L.) [Silence] Most people that have been diagnosed with the diseases that you have endured would simply take what the doctor said as a death sentence and give up. How did you find the strength to endure it all?
R.C.) I have always said that I should be the Poster Child for Early Detection. [Hearty Laughter] I always thought as to what my wife would say on these matters. She would say, “You set your goals right like you’ve always done. Get up and do.” I have always set goals which I have achieved. It has never been a goal of mine to throw in the towel because of an illness. S.L.) My father had prostate cancer and I remember how weak he felt after his radiation treatments. How long did it take you after your
treatments to start lifting weights again?
R.C.) I went through forty-five radiation treatments that kicked my butt for nine weeks and I never took time out from the gym.
S.L.) Excuse me, Mr. Curtis. We must have a bad connection; I don’t think I heard you clearly.
R.C.) You’re not hearing things. You heard me correctly. I was in the gym every day; from my first radiation treatment to my last. Everyone in the gym could see how the radiation was affecting me. From my ears, face, and body; I looked like a walking light bulb. I made a decision that I would only lift what I was able to do. No more and no less.
S.L.) How does it make you feel knowing that you will be representing Team U.S.A. in the World Masters Powerlifting Championship.
R.C.) I feel relaxed right now. However, when I get there I’m sure I will be a little nervous at first. I’m just so happy that I can go up there and compete and represent America. Team U.S.A. is determined to go up there and kick some butt! In closing; we at Senior Living would like to leave
you with a few select quotes from Mr. Curtis’s trainer. His name is Roddy Gaubert (top right) and we at Senior Living thank him ever so much for his contribution. “Ray Curtis has an infectious personality that draws the attention from gym goers of all ages.” “To bench press 250lbs and deadlift 350lbs at any age is impressive, and at age 82 it is impossible for 99% of people walking on this planet earth.”
by: Seymour Weaver
Healthy Aging: How to Improve Your Lifestyle in 30 Days A perpetual search for the "fountain of youth" has been ongoing for years and years through a variety of cultures and today the search continues. The reality is that we really start to age from the time that we are born and with the prevalence of obesity during childhood and adolescence, problems with plaque deposits in blood vessels and other medical problems are showing up in younger and younger individuals. So much so, that for the ďŹ rst time ever, life expectancy is decreasing so that some of today's youth are not expected to live as long as their parents.
Here are 5 Ways to Make Changes for Healthy Aging: Stop Smoking - I know that is easier said than done, but smoking will shorten your life and decrease your quality of life, especially as you age. Lung cancer, COPD and other lung diseases, heart disease, and cardiovascular disease are all major causes of death. Did you know that after 48 hours of non-smoking many symptoms disappear and your body begins to heal the damage done? If you have been a smoker for most of your life you will have increased risks but you can drastically decrease your chances of morbidity by just quitting today.
So, how you have treated your body throughout your
Get plenty of sleep - Much of our body's restorative and re-
lifetime will determine how healthy you will be during
generation processes occur during sleep. By getting 7-9 hours of sleep every night, your body has a chance to recover from any stressors it is subjected to and realign its natural balance. The older we get, the slower our body is in recovering from the things that we took in stride in our younger years. So go to bed one hour earlier, your body will thank you for it.
youth as well as later in life. So, what is the answer to questions on healthy aging and longevity? Is there something that can really help? No matter what you might have done in your life up to this point, there is hope for improvement. With current advances in anti-aging research, you can start today to make changes that can lead to a healthier lifestyle to help reverse your not-so-healthy choices in previous years.
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Eat a balanced diet and take supplements - Nutrition plays a key role in healthy aging and longevity. Making sure you get enough proteins, minerals and vitamins while at the
same time decreasing the amount of animal fats you eat will help your body stay fit. If you are overweight, aging is less kind and the additional weight puts an added strain on your joints, your endocrine system and your heart. To live a long and healthy life you need to get your weight back to the normal range and ensure you are getting the proper nutrition.
Daily exercise - As you age, your bones begin losing density and you lose muscle mass. One way to combat this process is to stay active. Weight-bearing exercise such as walking has been proven to help reduce bone and muscle loss so you should enjoy a daily stroll to stay healthy. Not only does this help your bones, it also helps your cardiovascular system. As you become more fit, increase the intensity of your exercise. No matter what you choose to do, the important thing is just get up and get moving if you want to enjoy your current and/or senior years.
Keep your brain fit. No matter how healthy your body is if you haven't kept your mind active you will not enjoy your later years. One of the biggest mistakes people make upon retiring is failing to do tasks that require problemsolving and memory. Do the daily crossword puzzle in your local newspaper, jigsaw puzzles or other strategy games. Take up a hobby that requires you to use your brain. Woodworking is a hobby that not only is relaxing to some, it also requires you to plan and assemble items. Sewing and crafts also offer the same benefits. Take supplements that are designed to maintain brain health. Ginkgo, flax, linseed and a wide variety of other natural ingredients are known to support brain health. No matter what your current state of health is, it is possible to become healthier and fit. Make one change per day towards your goal of health and longevity and you will find that within a few short weeks you are feeling younger every day.
Senior Sampler What’s In Season: Summer Healthy Summer Produce The summer offers the finest ingredients for cooking. Fresh local produce from the garden, farmers' market, and grocery make any dish inviting. Keep things simple and let the quality of seasonal ingredients excite your palate. Take a look at the summer produce that is in season this time of year.
Peaches Figs Watermelon Plums Basil Tomatoes
Corn Eggplant Zucchini Blueberries Summer Squash
Spanish Succotash
INGREDIENTS 1 poblano chile 2 cups shelled fresh lima beans 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 cup finely chopped Vidalia or other sweet onion Click to see savings 1 cup finely chopped red bell pepper 1/2 cup finely chopped green bell pepper 1 cup of summer squash
3 garlic cloves, minced 2 cups fresh corn kernels Click to see savings 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper Cilantro sprigs (optional) Preparation: PREPARATION 1. Preheat broiler. 2. Cut poblano chile in half lengthwise; discard seeds and membranes. Place chile halves, skin sides up, on a foil-lined baking sheet; flatten with hand. Broil 10 min-
utes or until blackened. Let stand 5 minutes. Peel, chop, and set aside. 3. Place beans in a medium saucepan; cover with water. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to medium, and cook 25 minutes or until tender. Drain. 4. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, bell peppers and garlic; sauté 6 minutes. Stir in beans, squash and corn; sauté another 6 minutes or until corn and squash are tender. Add poblano peppers and tomatoes; cook 2 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in chopped cilantro, juice, salt, and black pepper. Garnish with cilantro sprigs, if desired.
Jalapeno Corn Fritters 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 cups fresh corn kernels 1 thinly sliced scallion 1/2 finely chopped seeded jalapeño 2 tablespoons vegetable oil Sour cream and lime wedges, for serving INGREDIENTS 2 large eggs 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
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PREPARATION Whisk 2 large eggs, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons grated Parme-
san, and 1/2 teaspoon salt together in a large bowl until combined. Add 2 cups fresh corn kernels, 1 thinly sliced scallion, and 1/2 finely chopped seeded jalapeño; mix until combined. Working in batches, cook heaping tablespoonful at a time of batter until golden brown in a skillet with vegetable oil, about 4 minutes per side; season fritters with salt. Serve with sour cream and lime wedges.
Chris Owens Continued
Senior Sampler Waldorf salad DIRECTIONS Mix dressing ingredients together in a large bowl. Add salad ingredients and toss with dressing. Chill for 30 minutes NOTE: Serving size: 3/4 cup
Dressing 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt 1/4 cup low-fat mayonnaise 2 packets No Calorie Sweetener 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1 pinch nutmeg
Salad 1 cup chopped apple 1/4 cup chopped celery 1 tablespoon dried cranberries 1 tablespoon chopped walnuts
attachment toward its beloved French Quarter star. In 2006, Owens was fittingly inducted into the New Orleans Musical Legends Park located on Bourbon Street and dedicated to the rich cultural and musical heritage of New Orleans. A life size statue in her likeness has its place next to other notable musicians such as Fats Domino, Irma Thomas, Pete Fountain and Al Hirt. Owens has also been recognized for her outstanding accomplishments by the Hilton Walk of Fame, Louisiana Treasures Hall of Fame, and as an honored recipient of the Entertainer of the Decade Award. Glowing testimonials and rave reviews have labeled Chris Owens a tourist “must see”. In fact, visitors to her club coined the ultimate endorsement, “You haven’t seen New Orleans until you’ve seen Chris Owens!” On the other hand, Owens has had the honor of entertaining a star-studded guest list featuring renowned celebrities, powerful politicians and foreign dignitaries (including two Latin American presidents and a former Israeli Prime Minister). Apparently, you never know who’ll see at the Chris Owens’ Club! Currently Owens works four nights a week at her Chris Owens Club and Balcony and also commits to special events when the opportunity arises. It’s anyone’s guess as to how much longer the show will go on, but the New Orleans club owner insists she will never totally retire. “Even if I stop performing, I will always be a businesswoman.” As for Owens’ personal life, it is often spent in the company of Mark Davison, who she describes as “a wonderful man, my sweetheart, who helps me keep everything going.” For more than fifty years the amazing Chris Owens has called New Orleans home. The winsome Texas beauty, who danced into the hearts of tourists and locals alike, continues to delight fans with her enchanting, timeless talent. Her fascinating life story is by no means complete; for this star still shines brightly as her legend lovingly grows!