Lifestyles After 50 Suncoast edition by Lifestyles After 50 Magazine

Dion

Frankie Avalon

Bobby Rydell

Enjoy a Great American Staycation This Summer Dear Readers,

ur snowbird friends are gone. Summer heat is upon us, and we bless the inventor Janice Doyle, of air conditioning. Editor Are you the only one left on your street? It’s interesting where people go. Your neighbors may have fled to their cabin in North Carolina, a cottage at the beach or the family’s lake camp in upstate New York. Maybe they’ve gone to a villa in France, a casita in Mexico, a pensione in Rome or a condo in Colorado. If they went back to their roots, they may be spending the summer on the family homestead or in a bungalow in small-town Indiana. Many of our neighbors are in motorhomes enjoying cooler climates. Here are the rest of us, tending our Florida homes. If that describes you, consider taking one or more “staycations” this summer. What’s a staycation? Staycation: a vacation in which the vacationer stays at or near home while creating the environment of a traditional vacation. The term first became popular in 2008 when the financial crush caused everyone to take a second (and third) look at spending money. Oh, and gas soared to $3.75 per gallon. People suddenly planned closeto-home vacations to spend less on fuel. Here we go again. It’s a good idea. Let’s take a fresh look at Florida and how we can enjoy our own backyard area. I know it’s hot, but I also know it’s nice to sleep in my own bed at night. So how can we make this work? Look at the definition again. The secret seems to be this: “Create the environment of a traditional vacation.” Hmmm. I did some research and found a few tips for making that happen.

Lifestyles After 50 • June 2012 • page 2

Pinellas/Pasco Edition Published monthly by News Connection U.S.A., Inc General Manager Dave Tarantul dave@lifestylesafter50.com

For a really sizzling staycation:

1. Plan ahead to unplug from your regular routine. Decide whether you want to stay local only or travel across the state for a few days. 2. Adopt the feeling of splurging even though you’re saving money when compared to a vacation to a distant place. It’s all about getting out of your rut. That means no cleaning out the garage. Maybe it means eating at a more expensive restaurant than usual.

3. Enjoy the home environs, particularly local places you’ve never visited, ethnic restaurants you’ve never tried. 4. Plan only what you and your spouse/companion can handle without stress—remember it’s hot outside.

5. Think outside the box for ideas. That might mean a behind-the-scenes tour of Disney or a local TV studio, etc.

6. Play tourist in your own hometown. Think small community museums, area winery tastings, historic homes. Maybe stay in a local B&B. 7. Think simple. Go bowling; play miniature golf; explore the local and state parks.

So, don’t stalk your neighbors and suffer from vacation envy as they drive off for the mountains or airport. Pull out the Florida map—how long has it been since you visited Jacksonville? St. Augustine? Tallahassee? Google your home town places of interest. Reserve a night at a resort on the beach you’ve heard about but never visited. Getting ready for a vacation was never easier. No shutting off the water, cleaning out the fridge or finding a sitter for your plants. You’ll be home every night or two—or maybe three. Now, isn’t that easy. Take out your iPhone or iPad and try some travel-related Apps:

• Urban Spoon is a restaurant guide for major cities in North America. Search by neighborhood, cuisine or price.

• Gas Buddy finds the cheapest gas on the go—for free! In one click, locate gas stations near you and see current gas prices. • Sutro Media has travel apps for cities across the United States; You’ll be amazed at the destinations right within your neighborhood. (Sutro Media is a free app. Within it are apps for Florida Gardens at $1.99, Florida State Parks at $1.99, etc.) Have a great summer whatever you decide to do. I’ll be home following staycation advice with a week in the Adirondacks to cool off in July.

Congratulations To Our “Lifestyle After 50” Winner!

Last month, we asked readers to tell us what they love about their lifestyle after 50 in 20 words or less for a chance to win a summertime getaway package to Gaylord Palms in Kissimmee. Here is the winning submission from Mrs. Carolyn V. Salzein of Ocala, FL! Thanks to all who entered—it was tough to pick just one winner. Look for more contests in upcoming issues!

“Kids are grown Home’s our own Time to kill Find new thrills Bed by ten Adventure again TOMORROW!”

Publisher/Director of Events & Marketing Kathy J. Beck kathy@lifestylesafter50.com Editor Janice Doyle janice@lifestylesafter50.com Accounting/Ofﬁce Manager Vicki Willis vicki@lifestylesafter50.com Marketing and PR Assistant Libby Smith libby@lifestylesafter50.com Production Supervisor/Graphic Design Kim Burrell kim@lifestylesafter50.com Production Assistant Tracie Schmidt tracie@lifestylesafter50.com

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FCOA Attention Readers: The articles printed in Lifestyles After 50 do not necessarily reﬂect the opinion of the Editor or the staff. Lifestyles After 50 endeavors to accept reliable advertising; however, we cannot be held responsible by the public for advertising claims. Lifestyles After 50 reserves the right to refuse or discontinue any advertisement. Our advertising deadline for the July 2012 issue is June 15, 2012. Magazines are out by the 7th of each month. All rights reserved.

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Around Town W H AT ’ S H A P P E N I N G J U N E 2 0 1 2

hrough July 1 Vanishing Point, a musical production of American Stage Theatre Company. Tickets: $35 – $47 at (727) 823-7529 or online at americanstage.org.

performers, 75+ songs. Skipper’s Smokehouse, 910 Skipper Rd., Tampa. 4 p.m. to midnight music. $12 advance / $15 door. (813) 971-0666.

Eastern Airlines Silverliners (or other former flight attendants) luncheon at Rusty Pelican Restaurant, 2425 Rocky Point Dr. N, Tampa, 1 p.m. Info: (727) 785-3546.

African Queen, classic Bogart / Hepburn movie at 7 p.m. 16 Casablanca, classic Bogart / Bergman movie. 3 p.m. Capital Theatre, 405 Cleveland St., Clearwater. $5 admission. Call (727) 442-6152.

Rock ‘n’ Roll Friday Night, Gulfport Casino Ballroom featuring original The Impacs. Swing dance lesson at 8 p.m. Live music and dancing 9 p.m. to midnight. Twist contest. $12 admission at door. 5500 Shore Blvd. S., Gulfport. (813) 840-3715.

Honor Flight for West Central Florida World War II veterans to Washington, D.C. – volunteer as guardian or join the “Welcome Home” parade at airport. All information/guardian application at honorflightwcf.org (do not apply at national website). (727) 480-7112.

Florida-Friendly Garden Tours at Florida Botanical Gardens. 9 a.m. Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Rd., Largo. Call (727) 582-2100 or register online at pinellas.ifas.ufl.edu.

Florida—Stories Behind the Arts. Lunch & Learn with Professor Gary Mormino at Tarpon Springs Heritage Museum. $15 admission includes talk, catered box lunch/ soft drink. Advance tickets required. 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. 100 Beekman Lane, Tarpon Springs, (727) 942-5605.

Good Vibrations: A Tribute to Brian Wilson and the Beach Boys. Rock bands, surf bands, jazz, Latin, percussion group, a laptop ensemble. 8 hours, 20 bands/

– 22 Hair Spray presentation by City Players, local theatre troupe, at Ruth Eckerd Hall, 1111 North McMullen Booth Rd., Clearwater. (727) 791-7400.

– 22 Cabaret, 1966 musical, by freeFall Theatre Company, 6099 Central Ave., St. Pete. $37. Call (727) 498-5205.

Great songs from operas presented by Matinee Opera Players at 3 p.m. Pinellas Performing Arts Center, 4951 78 Ave. N., Pinellas Park. Free. Info at (813) 447-9152.

and 26 “Get the Role!” Adult Acting Classes (two-night workshop with Frank Kronyak). At St. Petersburg City Theatre, 4025 31st Street, South, St. Pete. $50. Call (727) 452-3184 or City Theatre at 727-866-2059.

Democratic Women’s Club of Upper Pinellas meeting. Program by Wendi Grassi of Planned Parenthood. Safety Harbor Library, 102 2nd St., Safety Harbor. 11 a.m. Call (727) 595-8506 for more information.

Murder on Budget Cruise Lines, a murder mystery dinner theatre at The Clarion Grand Hotel, 20967 U.S. 19 N., Clearwater, (813) 727-7012 or (813) 469-1233. 6:30 p.m. $45 dinner and show.

uly 1 Ringo Starr’s 13th All-Starr Band at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Ringo classics such as “It Don’t Come Easy,” “Yellow Submarine” and “Wings” and “Black Magic Woman.” 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $56 and up. (727) 791-7400 or online at rutheckerdhall.com.

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Get Ready for Sock Hops, Prom Night and Beach Parties “A

ll the singers on the Malt Shop Memories Cruise are not just going to be on the stage,” said Frankie Avalon. “You’re going to be rubbing elbows with them. It’s a very unique kind of cruise where you can talk to them and take photos with the performers out and about on the ship.” Legendary singer Frankie Avalon will return for his second Malt Shop Memories cruise when the ship sets sail October 27. The luxury liner, Holland America’s luxurious m/s Eurodam, will travel from Fort Lauderdale to Turks & Caicos, San Juan, St. Thomas and Half Moon Cay before it returns on November 3. Avalon, along with many other icons from the ‘50s and ‘60s, will perform and make special appearances throughout the journey. One of the talented members of the “Philadelphia school” of rock-n-rollers, Frankie Avalon was the reigning teen singing idol from 1958 through 1960. Devotees of American Bandstand hold affectionate memories of such Avalon top-tenners as “Gingerbread” and “Venus” and his later Beach Blanket movies. In an interview with Cinestar’s Brittany Umar, Avalon said that what is so special about the cruise is that the theme—‘50s and ‘60s music—has to do with a part of his life and that of many others who want to “reminisce, have a good time and hear some great performers.” Mention “Lifestyles After 50” when booking and receive $100 onboard credit! He remembered the first Malt Shop Memories cruise as a time when people talked to him about their memories. “They came and told me when they saw the movies I was in or heard me sing,” he said. “It’s unique to work with some of the singers I started out with, like Bobby Rydell and Dion.” Avalon considers this cruise an extension of all those years gone by, a time for the singers “to get together and have fun.”

Lifestyles After 50 • June 2012 • page 6

Inspired by Time Life’s popular Malt Shop Memories CD series, the voyage “The reviews are will be highlighted by performances in and MSMC (Malt by some of the biggest artists of the Shop Memories Cruise) era. Look for Ronnie Spector and 2011 was the “pick hit” of the Drifters Darlene Love, The Original Drifters, week and has gone platinum.” The Duprees and many, many more. —Yahoo Group: doowopcafe.com

y l m i f f e...” o k c a r t “It was the sound “. . . Frankie Avalon made an appearance at the Sail Away Beach Party and the memories had begun to accumulate by the time the ship sailed under the bridge.” — Linda Coffman, CruiseDiva.com This 2012 cruise will also celebrate the memory of the King of Rock ‘n Roll, Elvis Presley. The Malt Shop Memories Cruise will host the richest Elvis contest at sea featuring some of the most well-known and talented tribute artists in the world competing for a cash prize of $5,000. So, ladies, get out the poodle skirt and crinoline and get ready for an incredi“The legendary ble line-up of concerts, parties and ‘50s era of the late 1950s to and ‘60s-themed activities throughout early 1960s boasts some of the ship for the entire length of the the most romantic lyrics and cruise. You’ll grab your blanket for engaging harmonies popular the beach party, kick off your shoes music has ever embraced.” for the sock hop, spin the hula hoop, —Lisa Torem, dress in your finest for Prom Night. 2010 cruise Tickets for the cruise are available at MaltShopCruise.com or call (877) 700-6258 (MALT). The cruise is nearly 80 percent sold but great verandah cabins are still available. Florida residents who book between now and July 15 will enjoy free deluxe motorcoach transportation between the port in Fort Lauderdale Passenger photos by Rhonda Lane and seven Florida locations..

“No bonding required; we were all of the same mindset and were soulmates before the first doowop note rang out. The fun, the dancin’, singin’, strollin’, twistin’, hoppin’ and boppin’ never stopped.” —Gay Nagle Myers for Travel Weekly, 2011 cruise

Lifestyles After 50 • June 2012 • page 7

The Healthy Pleasure of Their Company—the Pets Among Us BY JANICE DOYLE

udy Elliott spends her afternoons at the Pinellas County Animal Services facility matching senior pets (over age 6) with senior citizens who want to adopt a pet. She says most of the seniors who adopt senior pets have had pets before and know the benefits of pets in the house. Life occurs in stages, and as we move from infancy to adulthood—and eventually into our senior years—our needs and wants change. A 50-year-old may choose a different breed of dog than he got when his children were small. An 88-year-old woman won’t want to worry with having to step carefully because of a Labrador dog that ﬂops down in the middle of the ﬂoor or a kitten darting out from behind the chair.

Why get a pet in the first place? While the primary benefits to animals are obvious—to place them in loving homes and keep them from being destroyed—the benefits to seniors of all ages are ten-fold (versus non-pet owners). A person who has a pet usually has: • Lower blood pressure and pulse rate • 21 percent fewer visits to the doctor • Less depression • Enhanced ease in making friends • More active lifestyle with something to nurture and care for • Affection and unconditional love • Ease in the loss of a loved one • Less feeling of loneliness • Higher level of taking care of themselves • Sense of security Lifestyles After 50 • June 2012 • page 8

Why get an older pet? Puppies and kittens may be cute, but they also have high energy levels and can require almost constant attention. Adopting an older pet may be the best idea. Think about an older pet because: • Older animals love to sleep and cuddle. They are happy for you to join them in a nap.

What to consider before getting a pet Beware of making a decision based on “going down memory lane.” Just because you once loved a German shepherd doesn’t mean that breed is best for you at this point in life. If well trained, of course, it might be, but it might be too big for your surroundings or for the care you are able to give it. Go for your present comfort level so it’s a good ﬁt for both you and the pet. Maybe, instead of adopting a pet, yours would make a good foster home for a pet. Sometimes animals need transition time and space (such as when they’re taking a round of heart worm medicine) and rescue facilities need temporary spaces.

You might also work with pet therapy dogs which are specially trained to be taken into nursing homes and schools. Many financial accommodations can be made if having a pet is beyond your means. Most local agencies have ways to help. (For example, Purina®Pets for People in Sarasota County qualifies anyone 60 years and over for reimbursement of adoption fees.) Besides county-run facilities, also look for smaller groups that adopt out pets. Adopting a senior pet can often open a new world for seniors. To find out how to adopt senior animals in our area, contact your local animal shelter. Adoption information by county: Charlotte (941) 833-5690 Hillsborough (813) 744-5660 Lee County (239) 533-7387 Lake County (352) 343-9688 Manatee County (941) 742-5933 Pasco (813) 929-1212 Pinellas (727) 595-5822 Sarasota (941) 955-4131

• Adult dogs have learned many life lessons. They know “shoes are for walking and bones are for chewing.” • They are mostly housebroken or litter box trained.

• Adult pets require less time than a puppy or kitten. • What you see is what you get; senior pets tend to settle into the household more easily.

In Sarasota County, Kristi Dorman, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Sarasota County, says a staff behaviorist assesses all incoming dogs “for temperament, likes and dislikes, how the animal responds to children. Do they play well with others? Are they aggressive or not?” Volunteers also walk the dogs and note behaviors, making matchmaking easier when a senior comes looking for a pet.

Macy Lives to be Petted B

ig dogs are hardest to find homes for. John Diehl walks his Great Danes Macy, 8, and Simon, 3, through his neighborhood. He and his wife, Michelle, found both dogs through Big Dog Rescue Ranch (BDRR) two years ago. John says, “Having the two of them is amazing. They are very affectionate dogs. Macy lives to be petted.” They “foster” Macy, which means BDRR covers all her medical bills including routine care. John and Michelle adopted Simon, who is still somewhat skittish from previous abuse, and fully expect to have him around for many years to come. BDRR is at (561) 791-6465 or online at bdrr.org.

Grandpa’s Boy: How One Grandfather Learned to Connect with His Autistic Grandson

BY SHARON FUENTES

recently went back home to celebrate my parents’ anniversary. I love my parents but I must admit I was nervous to go back. I was concerned about how they would handle having my kids in their home for over a week, especially when one of those kids happens to have Asperger’s SyndromeHigh Functioning Autism. Asperger’s is a neurological disorder. My 11-year-old son is very verbal and extremely smart. Looking at him, you might not know there is anything different about him. There is a reason, though, that Autism is called the “invisible disability!” What you cannot see is that Jay’s senses work, but the information they send to his brain can get misfiled or come in on the wrong pathways. Imagine having a million radio stations playing at the same time and you don’t know how to filter out the unnecessary to hear what’s important. This is what my boy faces every day. Understanding other people’s body and indirect language or even intonation is a challenge for Jay. What can seem like common sense does not come naturally; it must be taught. He is anxious, frustrates easily and is prone to meltdowns if things change or he just feels overstimulated. He is also brilliant, loving and funny. You might have to look a little harder to see all that. But, when you find a way to connect, what happens is almost magical. This last trip home, I sat down and for the first time since my son was diagnosed really spoke with my father. We shed many tears and laughed so hard that my side ached. The result of that conversation was a mutual understanding that my father did not need to fix my son; there was nothing wrong with him to fix. He just needed to find a way to connect with

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him, to accept him for the wonderful person he is now. He doesn’t need to feel sorry for him but he does need to recognize when he becomes frustrated and what to do when that happens (because it will happen). It wasn’t easy at first as Jay had no interest in watching a basketball game together or passing a football back and forth. What did pique his interest was the chess board he found in my father’s closet. When he asked my father if he would teach him how to play my dad knew he had found his “in.” Dad doesn’t let Jay win, but I have seen him make a bad move on purpose from time to time when he sees him starting to get frustrated. They even play chess via Skype now…their way to connect with one another even though we are 1,000 miles away. According to the CDC, one out of 88 children in the United States has a disorder on the autistic spectrum. Autism can be an isolating disorder... but it doesn’t have to be, especially if Grandpa and Grandma are around! Check out Sharon’s blog at www.blog.mamasturnnow.com.

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Ready for Swimsuit Season—Shopping Tips and Styles that Flatter Your Curves

ummer’s here again, ladies, and you know what that means—new swimsuits! Don’t hide your curves this year, flaunt them. Jeanne Grasso from Always For Me, an online retailer that designs swimwear, active wear and lingerie exclusively for plussized ladies, shares her swimsuit knowledge and offers shopping tips to help you find the suit that’s perfect for you.

Q: How have bathing

acceptance in the 1960s and continues today. The ‘70s brought improvements in fabrics and manufacturing that introduced nylon and lycra. These allowed fabrics to contour more easily to a women’s body. Today, swimwear manufacturers use the latest trends in fabrics, stretch control tummy panels and better bust designs combined with clever cutting to create a figure flattering silhouette.

The Miraclesuit suit styles changed Ambassadress in over the years? Fuschia Grasso: The 1920s and Q. What should a savvy shopper look 30s gave rise to bathing beauties for when buying a bathing suit? like Dorothy Lamour and Esther Williams in alluring but modest Grasso: The right swimsuit is one that one piece swimsuits—a style that is comfortable, flatters your body and continues to be trendy today. accentuates your positive features. The modern bikini came into fashion The most important thing to keep in in the 1940s. Once a racy and conmind when choosing a swimsuit is troversial fashion choice, the bikini fit. Don’t be a slave to the size on revolution gained much popularity and the tag. The most flattering swimsuit

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One of Always For Me’s most requested plus-size swimsuits is the Illusion suit in black, brown, turquoise, lilac, plum or red. Sexy and supportive, it features a drop waist skirt, shirred fabric, V-neck, gold ring bodice detail and criss-crossable lingerie style support straps. Grasso adds: Through the years, most women who have enjoyed swimsuits Q. What types of bathin their youth soon dread ing suits does Always The Illusion suit the thought of wearing for Me offer, and what is in Plum a swimsuit and are now your most popular style? wishing to hide particular Grasso: Always For Me has body parts. We would love to banish something for everyone. Almost all this thought and bring back the joy of our swimwear has hidden features to summer. We want people to find styles support, slim and ensure that women that they feel beautiful and confident look their best and feel confident. in—to enjoy the water and all of the From one piece bathing suits and comfort and refreshment it offers. swim dresses to tankinis and mix-andAlways For Me sells swimsuits match swimsuit separates, Always For online year round. To shop or learn Me has you covered when it comes more, visit alwaysforme.com. to plus size swimsuit collections.

style depends on your body shape. Always For Me has a wonderful Shop by Body Type feature that lets you pick the most flattering styles to enhance your curves with the perfect swimsuit. You can find this online at alwaysforme.com/swimshopbybodytype.html.

80 Years of Softball

or seventy-nine seasons, the “Boys of Winter” have played a highly competitive brand of modified fast-pitch softball for ages 50 – 74. It’s true! The St. Petersburg Half-Century Softball Club recently closed their 79th season with a banquet where President Joe Hannah highlighted the athletic accomplishments of league leaders in hits, runs, RBIs and home runs. The 2011 – 12 year was also notable for accomplishments away from the ball field with a successful charity golf tournament and food drive for St. Vincent De Paul Charities. Both events were part of the club’s “Support Our Sponsors” campaign. Next season will mark the 80th year for the club. In addition to a

The St. Petersburg Half-Century Softball Club in 1949.

full 60 (sixty) game season, the Half Century Softball Club will put even more time and energy into its community involvement efforts such as the January 2013 food drive. The 2012-2013 season of the St. Petersburg Half-Century Softball Club will begin on October 29, 2012.

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Surgery is not the only option. Visit XIAFLEX.com for a tool that helps you connect with doctors in your area who have experience treating with prescription XIAFLEX®. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION XIAFLEX can cause serious side effects including tendon rupture (break), ligament damage, nerve injury or other serious injury of the hand, or allergic reaction. Call your doctor right away if you have trouble bending your injected finger after the swelling goes down, pain, tingling, numbness, or problems using your treated hand or if you get hives, swollen face, breathing trouble, or chest pain. It’s important to tell your doctor about a prior allergic reaction to XIAFLEX, or if you have a bleeding problem or use a blood thinner. Common side effects include hand swelling, bruising, injection site reaction or bleeding, and pain. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.FDA.gov/medwatch or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Please see Important Product Information on the following page.

For more information, call 1-877-XIAFLEX or visit XIAFLEX.com

Within reach

Lifestyles After 50 • June 2012 • page 11

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Trim: 9.8125”

WITHIN

Live: 9.8125”

FIND A DOCTOR

Trim: 10” Live: 10”

Important Product Information XIAFLEX® (Zï a flex) (collagenase clostridium histolyticum) What is the most important information I should know about XIAFLEX? XIAFLEX can cause serious side effects, including: 1. Tendon rupture or ligament damage. Receiving an injection of XIAFLEX may cause damage to a tendon or ligament in your hand and cause it to break or weaken. This could require surgery to fix the damaged tendon or ligament. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have trouble bending your injected finger (towards the wrist) after the swelling goes down or you have problems using your treated hand after your follow-up visit. 2. Nerve injury or other serious injury of the hand. Call your healthcare provider right away if you get numbness, tingling, or increased pain in your treated finger or hand after your injection or after your follow-up visit.

• have had an allergic reaction to a previous XIAFLEX injection. • have a bleeding problem. • have any other medical conditions. • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if XIAFLEX will harm your unborn baby. • are breastfeeding. It is not known if XIAFLEX passes into your breast-milk. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby if you receive XIAFLEX. Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you use: a blood thinner medicine such as aspirin, clopidogrel (PLAVIX®), prasugrel hydrochloride (EFFIENT®), or warfarin sodium (COUMADIN®). If you are told to stop taking a blood thinner before your XIAFLEX injection, your healthcare provider should tell you when to restart the blood thinner. How will I receive XIAFLEX?

What is XIAFLEX?

Your healthcare provider will inject XIAFLEX into the cord that is causing your ﬁnger to bend.

XIAFLEX is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with Dupuytren’s contracture when a “cord” can be felt.

After an injection of XIAFLEX, your affected hand will be wrapped with a bandage. You should limit moving and using the treated ﬁnger after the injection.

In people with Dupuytren’s contracture, there is thickening of the skin and tissue in the palm of your hand that is not normal. Over time, this thickened tissue can form a cord in your palm. This causes one or more of your ﬁngers to bend toward the palm, so you can not straighten them.

Do not bend or straighten the ﬁngers of the injected hand until your healthcare provider says it is okay. This will help prevent the medicine from leaking out of the cord.

XIAFLEX should be injected into a cord by a healthcare provider who is skilled in injection procedures of the hand and treating people with Dupuytren’s contracture. The proteins in XIAFLEX help to “break” the cord of tissue that is causing the ﬁnger to be bent.

Keep the injected hand elevated until bedtime.

It is not known if XIAFLEX is safe and effective in children under the age of 18.

Return to your healthcare provider’s ofﬁce as directed on the day after your injection. During this ﬁrst follow-up visit, if you still have the cord, your

Do not try to straighten the treated finger yourself. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have: signs of infection after your injection, such as fever, chills, increased redness, or swelling; numbness or tingling in the treated finger; trouble bending the injected finger after the swelling goes down.

Your healthcare provider will provide you with a splint to wear on the treated finger. Wear the splint as instructed by your healthcare provider at bedtime to keep your finger straight. Do finger exercises each day, as instructed by your healthcare provider. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions about when you can start doing your normal activities with the injected hand. What are the possible side effects of XIAFLEX? XIAFLEX can cause serious side effects. See “What is the most important information I should know about XIAFLEX?”. Common side effects with XIAFLEX include: swelling of the injection site or the hand; bleeding or bruising at the injection site; pain or tenderness of the injection site or the hand; swelling of the lymph nodes (glands) in the elbow or underarm; itching; breaks in the skin; redness or warmth of the skin; pain in the underarm. These are not all of the possible side effects with XIAFLEX. Tell your healthcare provider about any side effect that bothers you or does not go away. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. General information about XIAFLEX Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed here. This is a summary of the most important information about XIAFLEX. If you would like more information, talk to your healthcare provider. You can ask your healthcare provider for information about XIAFLEX that is written for health professionals. For more information visit www.XIAFLEX.com or call 1-877-663-0412. Registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

For US residents only.

40 Valley Stream Parkway Malvern, PA 19355 www.auxilium.com 0412-047.a

Lifestyles After 50 • June 2012 • page 12

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Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of these symptoms of an allergic reaction after an injection of XIAFLEX: hives, swollen face, breathing trouble, chest pain.

XIAFLEX may not be right for you. Before receiving XIAFLEX, tell your healthcare provider if you:

healthcare provider may try to extend the treated ﬁnger to “break” the cord and try to straighten your ﬁnger.

Live: 9.8125”

3. Allergic Reactions. Allergic reactions can happen in people who take XIAFLEX because it contains foreign proteins.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before starting treatment with XIAFLEX?

The Sounds of Freedom

BY PATRICK M. KENNEDY

am, bang, hiss, sizzle! “Stars and Stripes Forever.” Fireworks, parades, barbeques, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, family and friends’ reunions—all celebrating the history and traditions of the U.S.A. What a day! Make plans to enjoy the 4th of July. Remember back when the family went together to the local amusement park, probably called Playland, and watched a fireworks display being shot over a small lake? That can happen again for us with a family of old friends gathering on a local hill, watching the sky light up with joyful celebration. We can be kids again by lighting a few sparklers and setting off a string or two of miniature or ladybug firecrackers in the backyard during the barbeque. Just do it outside because they can make the indoors a mess. Ooh!! Ahh!!

“Freedom is nothing else but a chance to be better,” said Albert Camus, the French writer. “The basis of a democratic state is liberty,” said Aristotle the Greek philosopher. So you see, this thing called freedom is older than you and is international. That’s what we celebrate—our peace of mind and the battles it took to get there here in the good old U.S.A. And Mr. Webster defines freedom as “the quality or state of being free as the absence of necessity, coercion or constraint in choice or action.” Now that doesn’t mean you can become that grumpy old person everyone dislikes and exercise your freedom of speech and say everything that comes to your mind just because you can. But it means you have the freedom to just think it. And then there is the sitting around back home after the food or fireworks display. “Do you recall when? … Remember where we used to? … Then there’s the time. … Did you know?

… Can you recall? … Do you think we’ll ever . . ?” The warm radiance of a slight beverage buzz—or it could be the ambiance of old friends calling to mind memories—fills the room along with the faded sun. Old friends who hadn’t gathered for a while, some for a year, slow down, take the weight off their feet and relax in a comfort zone built by years of experiences together. The distractions of the present are left at the door like muddy boots. The 4th of July is more than just about the past, it is enjoying the good times and friends of the present. You probably aren’t going to spend the day talking about Paul Revere, Betsy Ross, John Adams or Thomas Jefferson, although they were a big part of the original festivity. More than likely you will be talking about Pete the barber, or Joe the bartender, or even Gigi the checkout

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3. Get out of the gym and exercise outdoors. 4. Save on utility bills – close blinds on hot days. 5. Send an e-gift certificate for special occasions. 6. Eliminate paper invites and digitize your event announcement. 7. Use an irrigation controller to manage watering. 8. Swap your stuff on Swap.com. 9. Walk or bike to save on fuel. 10. Wash clothes with cold water if possible.

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11. Use mobile coupons to cut paper clutter (Coupon Sherpa app). 12. Go paperless wherever possible.

13. Hang-dry your clothes.

14. Shop garage and estate sales for clothes and home goods. 15. Put the blow dryer down. 16. Take short showers.

17. Wash dishes the old fashioned way in a sink full of water instead of with the tap on. . 18. Get a water filter and reusable water bottle.

19. Plant native shrubs and plants.

20. Use an eco-friendly shower head. (For example, an Oxygenics PowerMassage Handheld Shower Head can save up to 70 percent in water and energy consumption.)

Can You Cut Your Insurance Costs? H igher fuel prices affect a lot of other expenses in the family budget, from heating to food. The government estimates the average household is spending $150 per month more this year because of higher oil prices. You can try to ease the pain at the pump by using your car less, but you should also look for other places to offset that extra $150. Car insurance is a good place to start. According to the Insurance Information Institute, the national average auto insurance premium is $850 per year. Can you reduce that? Here are six ways:

• Bundle your coverage. Bundling is combining different types of policies (auto, homeowners, liability, etc.) with the same company. The theory is that the company will discount the premiums if they have all of your business. Bundled packages usually result in a 10 to 15 percent savings. • Ask for discounts. You may qualify for discounts, but you won’t know • Shop around regularly. Your until you ask. They’re commonly insurance agent doesn’t have a lot of offered for good driving records, incentive to reduce your premiums. anti-theft devices, vehicle safety The internet makes it easy compare features (anti-lock brakes, air bags, costs for the same coverage, or you ATW_50069_44230_10x4.75:ATW-50069_10x4.75 5/21/12 3:32 PM Page 1 automatic seatbelts), low annual milecan get an independent insurance age and insuring more than one car. agent to shop for you.

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• Take a defensive driving class. The amount of discount varies by insurance company and from state to state, although most insurers offer a 10 percent discount on your premium for three years. AARP offers a driver safety program for those over age 50, and it’s available online. • Increase your deductible. Do your auto and homeowners policies have low deductibles? If so, you may be able to reduce your premiums 15 to 30 percent by raising the deductible on your collision and comprehensive coverage. Be sure to check with your mortgage holder first; some specify maximums. • Change Cars. This is probably the most difficult savings tip to implement but may have the largest impact on your premium. Insure.com surveyed 900 vehicles in the 2012 model year and lists the rankings from the most expensive to least expensive on their website. Six of the 10 cheapest were minivans.

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Diabetics, Medicare May Foot Most of Your Shoe Bill

he Medicare Therapeutic Shoe Bill provides proper footwear and inserts for people with diabetes who qualify under Medicare Part B. Each calendar year, Medicare will pay 80 percent of the cost of one pair of shoes and three pairs of heat molded inserts specifically approved for the diabetic foot, and the remaining 20 percent that Medicare does not pay may be covered by your secondary insurance. “This program was designed to help prevent complications such as lower limb ulcers and amputations for individuals who suffer from diabetes,” says Lauretta Fernandez, licensed board certified pedorthist and owner of Foot Solutions. “And you’d be surprised at the variety of stylish and comfortable shoes that qualify under this program.” Ask your doctor to complete and sign the appropriate paperwork and give you a prescription for

one pair of approved shoes and three pairs of diabetic inserts. Foot Solutions can provide you with the right forms or you can download them at www.stores.footsolutions. com/forms/PhysicianStatement. pdf. Then return the Statement of Certifying Physician Form and the prescription (both completed by your physician) when you schedule your fitting at Foot Solutions in Largo. “Be sure to deal only with an approved or licensed facility with trained personnel,” concluded Fernandez. “This will insure you are fit properly and receive follow-up attention if necessary. Foot Solutions in Largo is a board accredited provider for the Medicare Therapeutic Shoe Program.” Foot Solutions offers Medicare service at its Largo Mall location. Please call (727) 585-4200 or go to TampaBayFootSolutions.com for more information.

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How Are Baby Boomers Doing as Parents? They hover: Parents Weigh in on Children’s Job Hunt oomer helicopter parents’ intrusions in their children’s outside-the-home lives now extend to the workplace, according to a Michigan State University survey of employers who were hiring brecent college graduates. Almost a third of the employers said that parents had handed in their children’s resumes, sometimes without their children’s knowledge. A quarter of the employers said that parents had been in touch with them to plead their children’s cause. In some cases, parents sat in on their children’s job interviews. Enterprise, the car rental company, has adapted to the trend by mailing parents the same recruitment

materials it sends their children and inviting parents to hear their children present their final projects as Enterprise interns. —Jennifer Ludden, “Helicopter Parents Hover in the Workplace” NPR, March 1, 2012 They support: Many boomers are helping to financially support both their parents and their adult children. Almost a third (31 percent) of relatively wealthy Americans are supporting older and younger immediate family members at the same time, according to a new Merrill Lynch Wealth Management survey of 1,000 people with investable assets of $250,000 or more. They question: “As boomers we raised our kids to have the things we didn’t. Our parents came from the World War era and they wanted us to have the life they didn’t have. We in turn gave just

The Benefits Of Napping

ith age come changes in the structure and quality of our sleep. After about age 60, we have less deep (slow-wave) sleep and more rapid sleep cycles, we awaken more often, and we sleep an average of two hours less at night than we did as young adults.

It was once thought that older people didn’t need as much sleep as younger ones, but experts now agree that’s not the case. Regardless of age, we typically need seven-and-a-half to eight hours of sleep to function at our

best. So if you’re not getting enough sleep at night, what about daytime naps? Or does napping disrupt the sleep cycle, ultimately yielding less sleep and more daytime drowsiness? Researchers at the Weill Cornell Medical College concluded that napping not only increases older individuals’ total sleep time— without producing daytime drowsiness—but also provides measurable cognitive benefits. Napping increased the time spent in slow-wave and rapid-eye-movement (REM) sleep, which are thought to play important roles in restoring the body and brain. Whether they took long naps or short naps, participants showed significant improvement on three of the four tests in the study’s cognitive-assessment battery. The findings provide further evidence that for older people, a daily nap can add to total sleep (as well as time in restorative sleep) and improve daytime function.

about everything to our children and I think this made a lot of them lazy and added to the “entitled” generation we see today. Of course, there are always exceptions to the rule. Is it our job to keep supporting our adult children no matter where the economy is? Every family has to decide this question. —From the blog sweetiesreviews.com “Supporting their Adult Children.” They spend: According to a Vibrant Nation survey, a dramatic 84 percent of boomer women are paying more of their

over-18-year-old children’s expenses than their parents did for them: • 59 percent pay for an adult child’s cell phone. • 53 percent pay for insurance • Over 1/3 are paying for everyday expenses like rent, clothes, cars and computers. And these expenses add up quickly. 56 percent of boomer women respondents report that they pay more than $5,000 in annual expenses, not including tuition/education expenses, for each adult child, and 17 percent spend more than $10,000. They advise: Over 40 percent of boomer mom respondents report that their children consult them about financial services (including loans and banking relationships) and insurance. Over 1/3 influence their children’s purchase decision for car buying, small/large appliances and food.

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Cheap Wills Cost a Lot BY JOE PIPPIN, Ask an Attorney A Cheap Will or an Expensive Trust?

. Why do trusts cost more than wills, and why are wills so inexpensive?

A. Thank you for asking! I often

joke with my colleagues that I am going to start advertising wills for $10 each and give away a free toaster if I’m assured the probate fee. Fees charged for wills are low in lieu of anticipated probate fees which an attorney hopes to receive in the future. But a client needs to know his options. If a client chooses a will, he should be informed of the probate costs and time delays of administration. A guardianship plan should be discussed since wills only deal with death. If the client chooses a living trust, he should be given instructions on how to maximize the use of the trust by registering assets to the trust. Trusts are more expensive than wills initially, but not nearly as expensive

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Lifestyles After 50 • June 2012 • page 20

as probate. Registration of assets is very important in the trust process, and problems will be prevented if the client follows the attorney’s instructions. Trusts are simple to comprehend if the attorney communicates to the client in an easy-to-understand format. In my opinion, the advantages of the living trust far outweigh planning your estate with a will. According to recent statistics, the average probate fee is four percent of a person’s gross estate. Recommendation: Review your estate plan and discuss with your attorney what is best for you and your current situation.

EZride: The key to senior independence.

Kim Linder Host of The Caregiver Hour Radio Show 1250 AM WHNZ Mondays at 11 AM

Advice EZride: getting seniors where they want to go at the lowest rates in town. • Friendly drivers attentive to special needs • 65 and older or disabled 55 and older • Wheelchair accessible • 8am-6pm, Monday through Saturday • Available throughout Pinellas County (Hillsborough and Pasco also available at a ﬂat rate)

727-571-4384 www.Neighborly.org

Want to help seniors in our community? Volunteers are needed.

Should All Men Have the PSA Test? does the PSA Q What test do? :

A: It measures the blood levels of a protein called prostate-specific antigen, or PSA. A level of less than 4 nanograms per milliliter is generally considered normal.

Q: Does an elevated PSA level mean prostate cancer?

A: Not necessarily. PSA levels can fluctuate. High PSA levels can also be due to an enlarged prostate or an infection of the gland. Levels often increase naturally as men age. Q: Should all men have the PSA test?

A: If a man chooses to be tested after consulting with his doctor, the PSA is most often done every year to screen: • Men ages 40 – 75 • Men with a family history of prostate cancer (especially a brother

or father) and African-American men, who should think about starting around age 40 – 45. This is because they have a higher chance of developing prostate cancer. Last year, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (which advises the government on disease prevention measures) recommended against doctors administering the test to healthy men 75 or older during routine physicals because of a risk of false positives that can lead to unnecessary treatments. For more information, check with: American Urological Assoc., National Comprehensive Cancer Network, The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (do not recommend routine PSA testing). Information from Mayo.com and NIH.

Dear Kim, For the last 2 years I have been caring for my father who has Alzheimer’s. I am seriously considering moving him into a facility even though I promised my mother before she died that I would always take care of him. What was I thinking? Caregiving for a loved one is tough stuff. How do I begin? What should I be looking for at these places? I’m upset even thinking about it. Can you help me? Dear Conflicted Caregiver, Yes, I can help. Thank you for asking. Know that you are not alone. There are 60 million caregivers in the U.S. who are in the same boat as you, who never expected to be caring for a parent and having to make these major caregiving decisions. The good news is that there is an abundance of information, resources and guidance available to you as a caregiver in a variety of ways. Without knowing all the details of your situation, you can begin looking at Senior Living Guide’s website www. seniorlivingguideonline.com for a vast list of home care services and living options. A few things for you to ask when contacting a facility are: location, pricing, how many staff members are trained in memory care, how approachable is the management team, what activities do they offer? My last piece of advice is for you to be kind to yourself. I hope you can acknowledge that you are keeping your promise, it’s just that you are caring for your father in a different setting. You are still his main caregiver.

I’m proud to announce two exciting programs coming soon from The Caregiver Hour Radio Show

Coming this Summer An innovative FREE service that will provide information, resources and guidance 24 hours a day and 7 days a week for Greater Tampa Bay’s caregivers.

Friday, November 16, 2012 The second annual gathering featuring great seminars, workshops, speakers and resources for hundreds of the area’s family and professional caregivers.

Caregivers and Sponsors: For more information about The Help Line or Symposium please call Kim Linder @ 727-798-2663 or email kim@thecaregiverhour.com

Lifestyles After 50 • June 2012 • page 21

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For many Americans, the thought of having a medical emergency while they are alone, with no one there to help, is the greatest fear of all. Whether it’s a fall in or around the home, a medical emergency or even a fire or break in, people who are alone can be at risk. That’s why thousands of doctors and healthcare professionals have recommended Lifeline for their patients. This Personal Emergency Response system enables them to summon help at the touch of a button. Now, anyone can get this sophisticated yet simple-to-use system in their own home, affordably. The Lifeline Service is reliable, simple to install and use… and easy to afford. In an emergency, every second counts. Lifeline features state-of-the-art equipment backed up

by a sophisticated 24/7 Response Center that provides a prompt response to summon help quickly. All you do is plug the base unit into an electric outlet and your phone line. Then, you simply wear the transmitter as a pendant or around your wrist. Just press the button and the unit will automatically call the Philips Lifeline

“Good morning. This is Brenda with Lifeline. Do you need assistance Mrs. Jones?”

Response Center. Expert Response Center Associates can call a friend or neighbor to help you or, if needed, quickly contact the local rescue squad or fire department. Whether you’ve fallen, are having pains or are simply experiencing shortness of breath– press the button, someone is always there.

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hink “that will never happen to me?” Think again. Here’s the story of Helen, an active 86-year old who decided to get Lifeline two years ago because she was having some balance problems: “Shortly after getting Lifeline, I fell in the late evening, getting out of bed. I was unable to reach my cell phone, but I pushed my Lifeline button and spoke with the Lifeline response associate, who called my daughter and asked her to check on me. It was such a relief to know that someone would get help for me if I couldn’t reach the phone.”

The Healthy Geezer

BY FRED CICETTI

I live with my 40-year-old son and he smokes like the proverbial chimney around the house. I’m afraid of what it’s doing to his health. What can I do to get him to quit?

A: Tell him he may be killing you

with his secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke—also called environmental tobacco smoke (ETS)—is made up of the “sidestream” smoke from the end of a cigarette, pipe, or cigar, and the “mainstream” smoke that is exhaled.

Nonsmokers exposed to secondhand smoke absorb the same 4,000 chemical compounds that smokers do. More than 60 of these compounds are known or suspected to cause cancer. About one in a hundred deaths worldwide is caused by secondhand smoke, which kills an estimated 600,000 people a year, according to World Health Organization (WHO) researchers. Each year, in the United States alone, secondhand smoke is responsible for about 40,000 deaths from heart disease, and about 3,000 lung-cancer deaths. Secondhand smoke causes increased cardiovascular risks by damaging blood vessels, decreasing your ability to exercise and altering blood cholesterol levels. Some research indicates that people exposed to a spouse’s cigarette smoke for several decades are about 20 percent more likely to have lung cancer. Those who are exposed long-term to secondhand smoke in the workplace or social settings may increase their risk of lung cancer by about 25 percent.

Some of the components found in tobacco smoke that are known to cause cancer or are suspected to be carcinogenic include: formaldehyde, arsenic, cadmium, benzene and ethylene oxide. Here are a few other chemicals in tobacco smoke along with their effects: ammonia (irritates lungs), carbon monoxide (hampers breathing), methanol (toxic when inhaled) and hydrogen cyanide (interferes with respiration). Throughout the world, governments are taking action against smoking in public places, both indoors and outdoors. Smoking is either banned or restricted in public transportation. Several local communities have enacted nonsmokers’ rights laws, most of which are stricter than state laws. Although air-conditioning may remove the visible smoke in your home, it can’t remove the particles that continue to circulate and are hazardous to your health, so don’t delude yourself that running the AC is the answer to secondhand smoke dangers. To solve your problem, you should try to get your son to seek help in fighting his addiction to nicotine. There are many programs available. Call your doctor for some recommendations. Meanwhile, for your own health, you should insist that he not smoke in your house. If you would like to read more columns, you can order a copy of “How To Be A Healthy Geezer” at www.healthygeezer.com. All Rights Reserved © 2012 by Fred Cicetti.

PROSPECT TOWERS of Clearwater, Inc.

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Intersection of Chestnut St. and S. Myrtle Ave.

727-447-5701 Efficiency $432 - $506 One Bedroom $554 - $649

Utilities included in the rent. Cable is an additional $18/mo.

Admission Qualifications • At least one person 62 or older • Or disabled under 62 Must be capable of caring for your apartment.

Building Features

• Fire sprinklers throughout • Limited entrances to building • Smoke detectors in every apartment • Emergency call buttons in every apartment • 24-hour desk clerks • Library • Coin operated laundry • All electric kitchen • Central heat & air conditioning • Ample closets & kitchen cabinets

Prospect Towers is a 17 story apartment community for 208 residences.

Non-Profit housing for the elderly. • Close to beaches • Grocery store within walking distance • On the busline • Close to medical facilities Visit: http://prospect.presidioproperty.com • On Site Wellness Center • Heat lamps and grab bars in tubs and showers • Maintenance work orders completed within 24 to 48 hours • Lighted parking on site • Exterior windows open for fresh air • Small pets welcome (15 lbs. limit) • Subsidized TV cable.

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Are you 62 years old or mobility impaired on a limited income? Check the quality at...MLF Towers Rent based on income • Fully equipped 1BR apt. • Carpeted & spacious • Library & community room. • Wellness center w/doctor & nurse • Weekly bus to shopping • Optional noon meal service 7 days/wk.

• Free cable • Water, sewer, & trash service provided • Individual climate control • Active resident council • Reserved Parking Other features offered at Minimal fee: • Tray service • Guest dining • Laundry room • Housekeeping

Call (727) 823-1575 • 1-800-955-8771

FLA Relay Service For a tour of our modern community. 540 Second Avenue South • St. Petersburg, FL 33701

Lifestyles After 50 • June 2012 • page 23

Veterans Corner

Veterans Benefits Questions and Answers

he following questions and answers may help readers in dealing with veterans benefits.

Q: How much are a VA widow’s

survivors benefits reduced by any earned income?

An Active 55+ Adult Community Spacious 1 and 2 bedroom homes with large screened lanais

A: Widow’s dependency and indemnity compensation (DIC) benefits are not reduced by any other income. Widow’s pension, however, is need-based, so it is reduced dollar-for-dollar against any Social Security or other income.

Variable lease terms available to meet your individual needs FREE cable television, water, pest control and rubbish collection included in your rent FREE daily transportation to local grocery stores, pharmacies, library, area shopping malls and the new Largo Community Center FREE membership to the Bonsai Holistic Spa & Fitness Center

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Q: My mother is experiencing some early cognitive issues that make her unable to live on her own. She is now living with me in another state. My question is this: Does she have veteran military benefits from my dad being in the military for over 30 years (he is now deceased but she is receiving his Army pension.) If so, who would I contact to confirm or process? Also, would benefits vary by state?

Located next door to Largo’s New Community Center!

A: VA Benefits do not vary based on

Two recreational clubhouses that include computers with Internet access, billiards and heated outdoor swimming pools An active social calendar including resident parties, travel excursions, health expos, group classes and activities galore Optional concierge services available: dinner meal delivery, housekeeping and laundry

Call Today for More Information (727) 585-3723 101 Imperial Palm Drive • Largo, Florida 33771 • www.imperialpalms.com Lifestyles After 50 • June 2012 • page 24

state residence. However, each state has an office of Veterans Services that may provide benefits separately. If your father was receiving or entitled to VA Benefits, dependent on his status, your mother may be eligible for DIC.

Q: How can I force the VA to give me a disability rating? The VA has been delaying my claim for asinine excuses for more than 454 days.

A: You cannot “force” the VA to give

you a disability rating, like it’s your right to have one! They have people that review your medical records to determine if you should have any disability rating; then, if you’re found to be disabled, they will assign a percentage rating to your disability. Once you have the percent that you’re disabled, then your payment is according to that percentage rating. Tables of such disability benefit payments can be found at the VA website. You might talk with a veteran service office or call/write the regional office to find out what the delay is. Have they told you they were going to schedule you for exams? However, I would NOT, if I were you, cop an attitude with the VA.

Q: My dad was a veteran and passed away 10 years ago. My mom has never filed a claim for veterans benefits. Now she needs surgery and after care. Might she be qualified for some benefits?

A: Anyone at the VA helping your

mother will need more information. Be prepared to furnish the following: What were the dates of your father’s service, branch and type of discharge. Did your father ever apply for Benefits from the Dept. of Veteran’s Affairs?

Q: I am receiving DIC (dependency

and indemnity compensation) payments right now. Will it continue after I file for social security? Do I pay taxes on this?

A: DIC should not affect your

SSI. VA benefits are non-taxable, and your DIC will continue unless you re-marry. It also should not be affected by any other SS income you may be eligible for. Questions and answers taken from lawguru.com/answers and caring.com

The Toughest Element in Fitness

BY WALTER URBAN

f you are over 50, you probably have your hands full with life’s daily routines and, frequently, that routine does not include fitness! If that’s the case, trust me—it’s not limited to you! Training or exercise is time consuming, takes me away from other pleasures and it’s hard, but remember—that’s why they call it exercise or fitness! In reality, motivation affects us all and is the key element in every fitness program. Whether you are just starting out or already exercising but need help with motivation, the following suggestions will help:

Health • Set a goal. Any project or plan without goal will be a struggle. • Develop a plan to reach your goal. This is a must no matter what activity you enjoy.

• Start small. If you are just starting, set realistic goals. • Set interval goals and reward small short term accomplishments.

• Create rewards that are pleasurable and away from your exercise. • Change routines and change often.

• Develop a competition with yourself or a partner and relate back to rewards. • Chart progress so you can monitor and remember successes.

South Pasadena’s Hidden Treasure

If you are already exercising or have started:

• Remember good days. • Remember the feeling of success and your pleasure rewards. • Focus on the big picture. • Withdraw during your routine. • Stay grounded but dream big. • Join a team or league if you are motivated by others and are in a team or league sport. • Know what your urges are to quit and be aware of them. • Continue to mix things up. • Visualize your success. • If you get lost with mixing it up, get a coach.

Forget but expect bad days. Remember, no matter how poorly you perform or how bad your workout is, do not quit—it is not an option. Just walk away and think about a past success. Most of all, remember: if it was easy, everyone would do it! To find more information on Walter Urban and his World and National records, please visit walterurban.com.

At Age 88, Another Mountain? F

red Beckey calls himself an alpinist/ author/media presenter/environmental specialist. At age 88, he’s still mountaineering, always looking for routes to the top that no one else has found—he’s discovered more of them than anyone in the history of the ascensionist sport.

Discover The Springs

He has also written several books about it—the most recent lists his 100 favorite climbs. Age, Beckey allows, has slowed his speed up a mountain, but he sees no reason why it should keep him, or anyone, at sea level. —“The Old Man, His Mountains” The Wall Street Journal, November 2011

Welcome to The Springs at Boca Ciega Bay, located in beautiful South Pasadena on the campus of The Fountains at Boca Ciega Bay. We’re not your typical skilled nursing facility. We are a 109 bed Medicare certified Rehab Center offering a variety of health care services: • Skilled Nursing • Wound Care • Social Services • Full scale beauty salon • Individualized activities • State-of-the-art Rehab. We offer Customized Rehab programs 7 days a week both in-patient and out-patient including Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy. We specialize in: • Orthopedic • Stroke/Neuro • Cardiac programs by utilizing state-of-the-art equipment including Anodyne therapy and Natilus equipment, just to name a few. We make admissions easy! We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our experienced and licensed Nurse Liaison, will meet you at hospital bedside or in your home. If you have a surgery planned, why not come in for a tour and take the mystery out of the admission process. Call (727) 599-1390.

The Springs At Boca Ciega Bay 1255 Pasadena Ave. St. Petersburg, FL 33707

(727) 828-3500

Lifestyles After 50 • June 2012 • page 25

FREE INFORMATION SERVICE Lifestyles After 50

for information please return completed form to:

News Connection USA, Inc. • P.O. Box 278 • Laurel FL 34272-0278

Name: Address: City:

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E-mail: o Single o Married o Are you a Group Leader? Please contact me by: o Mail o Phone o E-mail SEND INFORMATION ON AREA(S) CHECKED BELOW INSURANCE: AUTOMOBILES: o Medicare o Automobile Sales o Health o Life o Maintenance and Repairs o Long-term care o Recreational Vehicles HOUSING OPTIONS RESIDENTIAL LIVING: o Independent Living o Mfd/FactoryBuilt Homes o Assisted Living o RV Resort o Senior Apartment o Senior Apartments o In-Home Care o Villa/Condo/Single Family o Alzheimer’s/Dementia Care o Golf Community PERSONAL HEALTHCARE: CAREGIVER RESOURCES o Rehab Hospital o Family Counseling o Physicians o Caregiver Support o Dentists o Dementia Care o Eye Care HOME IMPROVEMENTS: o Hearing o Sunrooms/Home Improvement o Foot Care/Arch Supports o Pools/spas o Weight Loss o A-C Repair/Plumbing/Electrical o Supplements TRAVEL: o Home Health o Cruises o Land Tours o Prescription Drugs o Hotels/ Resorts o Medical Supplies o Local Attractions LEISURE TIME: FINANCIAL/ LAW: o Golf o Funeral Planning o Gambling o Retirement/Estate planning o Boating o Trusts/Wills o Theater o Medicare/Medicaid Assistance o Dining In/Out o Elder Law/Guardianships o Fitness/Gyms/Spas OTHER: SUN

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Win a $25 Gift Certificate to Home Depot! When you complete this form and mail it back, your name will be entered to win a $25 gift certficate to Home Depot. (Drawing held the 20th of each month.)

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P Michael Mannossos — Congratulations! P Lifestyles After 50 • June 2012 • page 26

June Is Safety Month: Help Prevent Falls Y

ou want your elderly loved one to live a meaningful and independent life. And you especially don’t want something like a trip-and-fall to take this away from them. Even if the fall doesn’t cause a physical injury, your loved one’s confidence in his or her ability to live independently will likely suffer. One out of three adults aged 65 and older falls each year, but the unfortunate fact is that less than half tell their healthcare providers about it or seek information to prevent future falls. Make sure your loved one doesn’t fall into this category. Note: There is some debate over whether brittle bones break as a result of the fall, or if the break is what causes the fall. Regardless, the decrease in bone density and strength directly contributes to falls and their resulting injuries.

One preventative measure is to make sure your loved one eats or drinks enough calcium. This is especially important for women, who need 1,500mg a day post-menopause.

Foods high in calcium include:

• Dairy, like milk, yogurt and cheese • Fish and shellfish

• Certain vegetables, like broccoli, collards and turnip greens • Protein sources like soybeans, tofu and almonds. It’s also important that your loved one get sufficient vitamin D to promote the absorption of calcium. Most older adults need a supplement because ample exposure to natural sunlight, which causes the body to naturally form vitamin D, may not be an option.

When Caregivers Field Tough Questions

aregivers often face tough questions from patients. Questions that fall into this category may include “Am I going home?” (especially when the answer is “No, nor will things ever be the same again”)…“Will I recover from this condition?”…“And oh, by the way: Is there an afterlife?” “Winging it isn’t a good idea,” says Walter St. John, Ed.D., author of Solace: How Caregivers and Others Can Relate, Listen, and Respond Effectively to a Chronically Ill Person. Here’s a tip from the book: Don’t hesitate to call in spiritual help. Even for people who weren’t very spiritual or religious in their lives, it’s natural to experience spiritual anxiety during a serious illness. And it’s also natural for this anxiety to lead to questions that caregivers might find

difficult or even overwhelming. If your loved one asks, for instance, ‘What’s next? Will prayer help? Why did God let this happen to me?’ it’s best to call in a qualified cleric. “If you attempt to help with these complex issues when you don’t possess the knowledge or skills to do so helpfully, you’ll do more harm than good regardless of how well intentioned you are,” St. John explains. “You don’t want to inadvertently increase your loved one’s confusion or anxiety. When spiritual needs and questions arise, don’t be afraid to admit that you aren’t qualified to handle them. In this instance, please call in a rabbi, priest, or other spiritual leader. And know that no matter how little spiritual training you may have, you can always be a confidant and source of support.”

All New Fun Fest and Jamboree!

ey Seniors! Join

us for the 5th annual Fun Fest and Jamboree, June 28, 2012 at the Strawberry Festival Grounds in Plant City. This event will bring all the great things that our Fun Fests are known for, plus more!

Free Admission! Free Parking! Over 80 Senior Friendly exhibitors will provide information on services and programs in the area. Free health screenings will include bone density, blood pressure, glucose, video otoscope ear checks, eye checks and free memory screenings provided by the Alzheimer’s Association. Important health seminars will also be going on throughout the day. Great Prizes and Giveaways! There will be free coffee and goodies and $1,000s in giveaways at the event, including two round trip tickets to Biloxi for a two night stay at the Beau Rivage resort and casino! All new this year is “WinA-Palooza!”— a chance to win $100 every hour!

Enjoy a delicious Senior Friendly lunch for only $4.50 from “Mr. Bills Fine Foods.”

Great Entertainment Entertainment will include the popular Denise Looney, the “The Knockouts” “DJ with a Twist,” Singing Sensation! Fritzy the “One Man Circus,” Richie Merritt of the Marcels, Ken Brady of the Casinos, William “Duece” Hulett and a special appearance by The Knock-Outs. Of course, there will be free Bingo and a fun sports area with a putting green and beanbag toss for prizes. Come on out, bring a friend and enjoy the day inside the air conditioned Strawberry Festival Expo building located off Reynolds St. in Plant City. Doors open at 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Call (813) 653-1988 or 1-888-670-0040 for information. Call (813) 752-9194 for directions. Visit our website at lifestylesafter50fl.com.

See you there!

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Boomers Set to Inherit Trillions of Dollars

aby boomers stand to inherit $10 trillion in the next few years and women will get the bulk of it, according to a Cornell University study, because they outlive men an average of seven years. “Women already control 60 percent of the nation’s personal wealth. They outnumber men and they are traditionally the shoppers,” says financial expert Scott T. Schultz, author of Scott Schultz’s Guide to Closed-End Funds.

“It’s sad that, despite the fact that nearly a third make more money than their husbands and they’re starting businesses at twice the rate men are, 38 percent of women ages 30 to 55 worry they’ll eventually live in poverty because they can’t adequately save for retirement,” he says. With boomers hitting 65 at a steady pace, the nation will see an even greater number of retirement-aged women holding the country’s purse strings. “Many will inherit money and property from their parents and/or their husbands, and many will live another 30 to 40 years,” Schultz says, citing the Cornell study. “They’ll need to invest their money to ensure they have enough to avoid that impoverished retirement they fear.”

Word Search

Last Month’s Answers

May Sudoku

Charlotte Paollo is last month’s winner! Congratulations!

Win Great Prizes!

New winner selected each month

Good Luck!

June Sudoku

Sudoku requires no arithmetic skills.The object of the game is to fill all the blank squares with the correct numbers. Each row and each column of 9 numbers must include all digits 1 through 9 in any order. Each 3 by 3 subsection of the 9 by 9 square must include all digits 1 through 9 as well. Good luck! The first correct answers selected from the drawing on June 21 will win. Send your answers along with your name, address and telephone number to: NEWS CONNECTION USA, INC. P.O. BOX 638, SEFFNER, FL 33583

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SUDOKU MUST BE RECEIVED BY JUNE 21, 2012

Word Search June 2012

In the grid below, twenty answers can be found that fit the category for today. Circle each answer that you find and list it in the space provided at the right of the grid. Answers can be found in all directions – forwards, backwards, horizontally, vertically and diagonally. An example is given to get you started. Can you find the twenty answers in this puzzle?

Answers From

May 2012

Marion McClain is last month’s winner! Congratulations!

Send your answers along with your name, address and telephone number to: NEWS CONNECTION USA, INC. P.O. BOX 638, SEFFNER, FL 33583

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Lifestyles After 50 • June 2012 • page 29

• • • • • • • •

Spacious Studio, 1 & 2 BR apts. Walk or Kayak to Honeymoon Island FREE Sewer, Water & Cable Rich Social Activities Elevators Beautiful Clubhouse Heated Swimming Pool Prompt & Courteous Maintenance Staff • FREE scheduled Call Toll Free transportation services 727-734-8479 (Save Gasoline) • Prices start at just 444 North Paula Drive $615 per month Dunedin, Florida 34698 • NO BUY-IN FEES www.scottishtowers.com

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Lifestyles After 50 • June 2012 • page 30

Social Security Numbers Down

hree-quarters of eligible adults 62+ postponed Social Security in 2011. The Social Security retirement benefit take-up rate was lower in 2011 than any year since 1976. It has declined to 26.9 percent in 2011, from 30.8 percent in 2009,

according to a 2012 Urban Institute analysis of Social Security data. The take-up rate is defined as the number of new retirement awards in the year divided by the number of adults age 62 and older who had not yet begun collecting benefits at the start of the year.

Volunteer Opportunity

lorida’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program needs volunteers to join its corps of dedicated advocates who protect the rights of elders residing in nursing homes, assisted living facilities and adult family care homes. The program’s local councils are seeking additional volunteers to identify, investigate and resolve residents’ concerns. Special training and certification is provided. Learn more at the local council meeting on the third Thursday of each month at the Mary Grizzle Building, 11351 Ulmerton Rd., Room 136, Largo at 1 p.m. Call toll-free: (888) 831-0404

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Lifestyles After 50 • June 2012 • page 31

Awesome, But Don’t Insurance Discounts Garfunkel Dog For MatureYour Drivers

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A floor lamp that spreads sunshine all over a room. The Balanced Spectrum® floor lamp brings many of the benefits of natural daylight indoors for glare-free lighting that’s perfect for reading.

tudies show that sunshine can both lift your mood and enhance your energy levels. But as we all know, the sun does not always shine. Now, however, there’s a solution to the problem– The Balanced Spectrum® floor lamp will change not only the way you see, but also the way you feel about your living and work spaces. It brings the benefits of natural daylight indoors, simulating the full spectrum of daylight.

Experience sunshine indoors at the touch of a switch. This amazing lamp is not only easy on the eyes, it is easy on the hands as well, featuring a special “soft-touch, flicker-free” rocker switch that is easier to use than traditional toggle or twist switches. And its flexible gooseneck design enables you to get light exactly where you need it. The hightech electronics, the user-friendly design, and a bulb that lasts 10 times Technology revolutionizes the light bulb • Save almost $61 over the life of the bulb • 8,000 hours bulb life • Energy efficient • Shows true colors

longer than an ordinary bulb–all these features make the Balanced Spectrum® floor lamp a must-have. Try the Balanced Spectrum® floor lamp for the best value ever! Now more than ever is the time to spread Lifestyles After 50 • June 2012 • page 32

Humor

Have a Florida’s Driver’s License and are 55 years of age or older?

sunshine all over the room in your home at this fantastic low price! The Balanced Spectrum® floor lamp comes with firstSTREET’s exclusive guarantee. Try this lamp for 90 days and return it for the product purchase price if not completely satisfied.

Balanced Spectrum® floor lamp Only $59.95 each + S&H *Order two Balanced Spectrum® floor lamps and get FREE shipping on both lamps. *Free shipping within the contiguous 48 states only.

Please mention promotional code 44231. For fastest service, call toll-free 24 hours a day.

1-888-738-8114 We accept all major credit cards, or if you choose, you can pay by check over the phone. To order by mail, please call for details.

To Register go to:

www.balancedspectrum.com

www.seniordriverclass.com

41481

The Balanced Spectrum’s 27-watt compact bulb is brighter than a 100-watt ordinary light bulb. With the lamp’s sharp visibility, you will see with more clarity and enjoyment in close tasks such as reading, writing, sewing, and needlepoint. It is especially helpful for aging eyes.

In today’s devolving idioms, if you’re annoying me, you’re “basting ou know that I love language, my wheels.” If nothing went right but the next person who says for you today and you come home “awesome” to me, referring to exhausted, you’re “catterwacked” anything less than being trapped in (not a big reach, if you were wack to their car and caught in the crest of a begin with). If no one knows where lava tsunami during a frog hailstorm, you went, and no one knows why gets a pie in the face. For the record, you’re gone, you’re “garfunkeled.” the fact that I was able to give a Spending too much time on the department store clerk the correct computer? You’re a “mouse potato,” change today is not “AWESOME!” but that’s crisp if you’re a tool. Jargonizing (hey, my column, my word license) is nothing new. It’s a time-honored tradition. We could go back to the 1950s: When the cashier praised my Ladies, if your slip was showing ability to subtract 38 cents from 100 in 1955, someone might’ve told and arrive at 62 as being an “aweyou that “your pinky’s out of jail.” some!” achievement, I wondered Gentlemen, if you found yourself what word she’d use should she stuck with the family station wagon leave work in her Toyota pelted by on prom night, you had to transport plummeting amphibians floating your date in a “tank,” but that might’ve Take Your ClassandOnline! away atop a volcanic tidal wave. increased your chances of playing • Study at a day,of7“backseat days a bingo.” week. Something toldyour me itleisure, would’ve24 hoursa game • Simply readlong the and course materials online and century then answer been 50 characters Go back another and you’d consisted of consonants, be paying your best friend the highest a fewentirely quiz questions. when a simple compliment byor calling himtoa “regular • There is “awesome” no need towould attend boring classes listen have then appropriately sufficed. brick.” Or, it was possible to be a lectures. I’mlong also now hearing from “hugger-mugging hobadehoy talking • After that completion, of course wefimble-famble,” will issue a especially state-certiﬁ ed Slangville the word “cool,” if you as incertiﬁ “Thesecate Cheez Doodles are your prom date home late for you to turn into brought your insurance company to and cool,receive dude,” has also devolved into carriage bingo was around in 1855. your discount for a three year period. the word “dope,” and that the new All of this rant and frustration and my word for “dude” is now “dog.” sense of going down in this modern upTake Your Course OnofThe Internet! Thus, we’re sureMature to hear the Driver folward futility slangishness, is no doubt lowing in today’s lazy language: my payback for driving Mother If you have a Florida Driver’s License Pauline and are 55 years of “These Doodles are really crazy at supper many agedog.” or older, dope, If that you are now eligible to complete years ago bymotor callingvehicle her stuffed accident prevention course that will allow you to “Wow, receive a doesn’t put a visegrip pork chops these onmandatory your vernacular, are far out, Mom.” reduction on your insurance rate for three years. other terms that are edging out In fact, they weren’t “cool” are “tight,”Florida “fresh,”Department “crisp” far out, they were of Highway Safety or “sick,” and if you survive all that right there. And, & Motor Vehicle Approved Course and someone thinks that you are they were awesome. still what’s heretofore been Syndicated humor columnist labeled “uncool,” you’re B. Elwin Sherman writes now “lame” or “wack.” from Bethlehem, N.H. Okay … so if I’m lame after All rights reserved. breaking my leg, my lame You may contact him limp may be wack, but via his website/blog I’m still sick. If that’s fresh at Witbones.com. with you, I’m tight with it. (SENIOR WIRE) BY B. ELWIN SHERMAN

or call 1-800-771-2255

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