Mature Living Magazine - February 2012 by northwest express

PROMOTING A HEALTHY & POSITIVE LIFESTYLE February 2012

THE MAGAZINE FOR THE OLDER, BOLDER INDIVIDUAL

The alternative ambulance service James Murray outlines the ingredients for a quality ambulance service.

A Holiday with heart Many travellers are using their vacation time and skills to give something back.

Pets: breeds for allergy sufferers These dogs and cats might be the solution for pet lovers.

All this plus lots, lots more!

A story of a particularly Irish success

See Page 33 For details

• SLIGO • MAYO • GALWAY • LEITRIM • ROSCOMMON

Contents

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HE third issue of Mature Living comes to you as we leave winter behind and enthusiastically embrace the spring for all that it delivers. From the noticeable stretch in the evenings to the sight of new born lambs bouncing and frolicking in the fields, springtime really is a time for being positive and shaking those winter blues well and truly from us. As you all know at this stage we are set to lose over 8,000 public sector workers at the end of the month. Much has been made of the handsome pensions and lump-sums that workers will walk away with and sectors being left in chaos because of these “irresponsible people”. It is worth remembering that it was not these workers who implemented this scheme. And I would like to take this opportunity to wish them a long and healthy retirement. You have put in the years and now it is time for a little rest & recuperation. This month also saw the passing of David Kelly, the legendary actor who graced our screens for the the past five decades. From Rashers in Strumpet City to Sylvie in Glenroe or indeed Mr O Reilly in one of the classic episodes of Fawlty Towers, David will be fondly remembered. Once again we have been particularly encouraged by the request for bulk deliveries from so many organisations throughout Connacht. Likewise, we regret that many of you have been unable to source copies. For those of you experiencing Mature Living for the first time, we are a free monthly publication available in restaurants, pharmacies, doctors’ surgeries, dental practices, hospital waiting rooms, butchers, golf clubs, hotels, day care centres, government buildings, banks, community centres, shops, etc., etc. We are also available online at www.matureliving.ie where we have a fully interactive online edition along with archives. In this issue we invite readers to take a nostalgic look back at the showband era in Ireland and we are very grateful to www.irish-showbands.com for supplying al the material. We have a one on one with the man who left teaching to set up Supermac's; we also chat to James Murray about his ambulance service and many other timely articles we hope you will find both interesting and rejuvenating. If your group or organisation would like to receive bulk deliveries of Mature Living please send your request to seamus@matureliving.ie or post it to: Mature Living, 28 Cleveragh Road, Sligo. We also welcome input from your organisation and if you would like to have articles or photographs of recent events highlighted please send them to the same address, seamus@matureliving.ie. Our next issue will be available on March 14th and the deadline for submissions is 7th of March.

Seamus Casey Editor Editor: Seamus Casey seamus@matureliving.ie Advertising: advertising@matureliving.ie Production & Design: Stephen Finney steve@matureliving.ie

News Sugar as harmful as tobacco, experts say One one One with Pat ‘Supermac’ McDonagh The quality alternative ambulance service Charlie Easterfield Inspirational in Leitrim Big Apple on a budget A holiday with heart Pet’s Corner: The best breeds for allergy sufferers Down Memory Lane: The Kim Newport Band Lump Sum Investments Technology: Mobiles Motoring: How to reduce the perils of parking Sustainable Kitchens Hypnosis: Science and Application Competition Food and Drink: Chia- The Ancient Super Seed Woman: Just 50 Speaking Clearly ... and Slowly! Employment Is aging to blame for weight gain? The Joy of Gardening with Grandchildren Services Directory Puzzles Dating: Meeting Place

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News

President Higgins Calls on Older People to Realise Their Potential

resident Michael D Higgins called on older people to realise their potential at the launch of the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations in Dublin Castle. “If ageing is to be a positive experience it must be accompanied by opportunities to realise the potential of all

people and to participate in all facets of society. This is the essence of active ageing” the President said. Speaking to delegates from all over the country, who will be celebrating the Year with an impressive number of events, he continued with the message: “The Year also provides an opportunity to send a clear and strong message that active ageing is not meant for older people alone, it is of relevance to everyone in Ireland no matter what age he or she may be”. President Higgins said that, during his 14 months campaigning for the Presidency, nobody -- younger or older -- had asked for anything at the expense of another generation. “There is in the people a fine ethical balance of wanting intergenerational solidarity, he said. “This is something that is natural. The year enables us to have a vision celebrating ageing and valuing contributions from all ages.” Ronan Toomey, Office for Older People, National Coordinator of the Year said the opening event was just one of a number of national seminars his office will host throughout the Year. “We will be encouraging people of all ages to take part, enter into dialogue with each other and ultimately foster and build on the contact and support between generations that already exists in Ireland”, he said. “While the Office for Older

Roscommon Drama Festival 2nd - 10th March After a hugely successful run last year, Roscommon Drama Festival once again presents a packed nine-night programme of theatre from Friday 2nd to Saturday 10th March, 2012. The festival provides an exciting mix of excellent amateur drama with groups from all over the country competing for awards and nominations to the All Ireland finals. Roscommon Drama Festival offers something for all audiences: from comedy to tragedy, classic plays to contemporary drama and lots more in between

People in the Department of Health is responsible for organising the Year, we wanted this to be a collaborative process. The response from the NGO sector and colleagues in other Government Departments has been very encouraging. There is a real sense of partnership in the planning and delivery of events taking place around the country throughout the Year”, he continued. Mary Cunningham, Director of the National Youth Council of Ireland, said that this was just the beginning of an exciting year of events celebrating the great work carried out by younger and older people together. “This intergenerational contact is so positive. It leads to more realistic images of older people and younger people and puts young people at the forefront of challenging ageism”, she said. This is the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations which calls on everyone to reflect on how Europeans are living longer and staying healthier than ever before — and to realise the opportunities that represents. People of all ages can enjoy an extensive programme of events taking place in Ireland throughout the year. Details are available at www.activeageing.ie A key message for the Year in Ireland is that you are never too old or too young to engage with life and its many opportunities.

Active Retirement Ireland announce Trade & Tourism Show FOLLOWING the success of their first TRADE & TOURISM SHOW last April, which attracted 1,500 members, Active Retirement Ireland are pleased to announce that this year’s show will be held at The CITYWEST HOTEL on Tuesday 17th APRIL between 12 noon and 6pm. This is a perfect opportunity for companies (small and large) as well as voluntary & statutory organisations to reach a prime target group of Active Retirement Association members from every county in Ireland.The Show takes place during the 3-day AGM and will be open to all delegates as well as members of the public. It is expected this event will attract over 2,000 visitors. Entrance will be FREE. Stand spaces cost just €350 (nil VAT). Sponsorship opportunities from €500 to €1,000 available. For a booking form please call 01 873 3836 or email info@activeirl.ie

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40% of retiring nurses managers /specialists JUST over 40% of nurses quitting the health service before the end of the month are in senior manager or specialist posts, according to latest figures. Latest estimates for the number of health service staff leaving the service by the end of this month indicate that around 1,360 nurses and 90 consultants will be quitting, according to Health Minister James Reilly. He said the current estimated total staff retiring from the health service was 3,800. The Minister said he would be reviewing the HSE service plan once the full impact of the staff exodus was known. The Minister, in a Dail reply, said 2,200 people have already retired between September and January, and the remainder have indicated that they will leave by the end of this month. Dr Reilly said these figures are subject to change in the event of additional applications being received or existing applications being withdrawn. Staff are retiring to avail of favourable pension terms which will no longer be offered to retirees after February 29. He said contingency planning is being undertaken to

prepare for the departures. The latest breakdown of staff leaving given by the Minister shows that of the approximately 1,360 nurses quitting, 123 are in managerial posts of directors of nursing. An additional 456 are either clinical nurse managers or clinical nurse specialists the latter provide specialist care to patients with specific conditions such as cancer. A total of 641 staff nurses are set to quit the health service and 37 midwives are due to retire. The latest breakdown shows that 93 consultants are set to quit the health service by the end of the month. Retiring HSE staff can be rehired.

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News

Age Action welcomes research which highlights difficulties older people experience accessing information

ge Action welcomed publication of research which highlights the difficulties which some older people experience to secure information about their entitlements and how to access public services.

WE HAVE ALL heard the stories about how dangerous swans are. They can break a man’s arm, you know (actually we’re still not sure if this is true or not). But these three little ducks today paid no heed to the warnings/urban myths as they took on a game of swans to grab their share of this slice of bread

Caught in the web

Ombudsman Emily O’Reilly

The findings of Caught In the Web, Mapping Older People’s Information Pathways to Public Services are very much in line with the experience of many callers to Age Action’s telephone information service. The report was commissioned by Older and Bolder and researched by Olga McDaid. “With increasing numbers of organisations in the public and private sector reverting to automated telephone services and the growing dependency on websites as the main means of dispersing information, more and more older people are struggling to access data about vital entitlements and services,” Age Action spokesman Eamon Timmins said. The older people’s charity believes that providing people with timely, accurate and accessible information is essential if older people are to be empowered. “By providing barriers to older people seeking information, the State is denying them access to vital entitlements and hindering their ability to make informed decisions about how they wish to live their lives,” Mr Timmins said. Age Action works to address these problems by providing a telephone information service, which dealt with over 3,000 queries last year. It also provides computer training courses for older people to enable them access information online. Over 11,000 older people have been trained to date. Age Action’s information service operates Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 5pm. To contact the information service or book a place on a computer training course contact 01-4756989.

THE Ombudsman Emily O’Reilly launched ‘Caught in the Web’ - an Older & Bolder report which shines a spotlight on the difficulties older people have in accessing vital information about access to public services. “Isolation, sensory problems, lack of access to the internet, the failure of some service providers to offer adequate or appropriate information about their services all create barriers between the older person and what they need and are entitled to in order to get the most from their lives,” Ms. O’Reilly said. Director of Older & Bolder Patricia Conboy called for a

simpler system to be adopted to avoid the real hardship people are experiencing throughout the country. “One man interviewed in the report waited a long time for a wheelchair and then got two on the same day. Older people should not have to battle with bureaucracy. They should be able to make a telephone call and have their query tracked through a central tracking system the same way you can if you buy a book on Amazon or buy a flight or send a registered letter in the post. This would not entail enormous expenditure and indeed may save money in the long run.”

On TRACK - Turning Retirement into Active Citizenship AGE & OPPORTUNITY are piloting a new course to help people to develop confidence and skills in contributing to and working for change in their communities. Research shows that few opportunities of this type are targeted at retired people – something that is illogical, given the potential resource to their communities that they represent. The course complements Age & Opportunity’s other education initiatives, offering the chance for a follow-on course, something participants often request at the end of the courses like Ageing with Confidence. This course’s working Page 6 Mature Living February 2012

title is On TRACk – Turning Retirement into Active Citizenship. It will be developed to reflect the needs and experiences of those taking part who can shape its content. This course is being developed with CAN (Community Action Network), and is being piloted with eight partners across the country: Clare Local Development, Artane Coolock Resource and Development Centre, Dun Laoghaire VEC, FORUM Connemara (with the Irish Centre for Social Gerontology, NUI Galway), Kildare VEC, Longford Community Resources, Waterford City VEC, Wexford Local Development.

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PROM OT ING

A HEALTH Y

& POSIT IVE

LIFES TY LE February 2012

THE MAG AZI NE FOR THE OLD ER, BOL

The alternati ve ambulance service

DER IND IVID UAL

James Murr ay outline the ingredients for a quality ambulance service.

Due to the massive uptake on the last issue of Mature Living Magazine, not everyone could be guaranteed a free copy in their local outlet. However, we now offer a subscription service.

A Holiday with heart

Many trave llers their vacation are using time and skills to give some thing back.

Pets: breed s for allergy sufferers

A story of a Particularly Irish Succes s

These dogs and cats migh t be the solution for pet lover s.

All this plus lots, lots mo re! TYLE THY & POSI TIVE LIFES PROM OTIN G A HEAL See Page 33

• SLIGO •

January 2012

For details

MAYO • GA LWAY • LEOLDER, BOLDER INDIVIDUAL THE ITRIM • ROSCOM THE MAGAZ INE FOR MON

Bands of our Showband Era

Name...........................................................Telephone......................................................... Address.............................................................................................................................. ........................................................................................................................................ Alternatively, you can pay via telephone using your credit or debit card. Simply call us on 071-9154538 with your details. Cut out this form and send it to us at: Subscriptions, Mature Living Magazine, Cleveragh Road, Sligo.

Bands of every size and description travelled the roads and borheens.

World’s great train journeys

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News

Sugar as harmful as tobacco, alcohol, experts say

ugar is so harmful that it should be controlled in the same way as tobacco and alcohol, according to a team of leading public health experts. Three US scientists from the University of California at San Francisco (UCSF) maintain sugar is more than just "empty calories" that makes people fat. They argue that high calorie, sweetened food is indirectly responsible for 35 million annual deaths worldwide due to lifestylerelated conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer. Professors Robert Lustig, Laura

Schmidt and Claire Brindis call for restrictions and controls on sugar that mirror those on tobacco and alcohol. The three set out their views in the science journal, Nature. They point out that, at the levels consumed in the West, sugar altered metabolism, raised blood pressure, disrupted hormone signalling and caused significant damage to the liver that was still not fully understood. The health hazards were similar to the effects of drinking too much alcohol — which was, in any event, manufactured from the distillation of sugar.

Speaking about the comment article, Professor Lustig, from the UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, said: "As long as the public thinks that sugar is just 'empty calories', we have no chance in solving this. "There are good calories and bad calories, just as there are good fats and bad fats, good amino acids and bad amino acids, good carbohydrates and bad carbohydrates. But sugar is toxic beyond its calories." Worldwide consumption of sugar has tripled in the last 50 years, fuelling a global obesity epidemic. The main culprit is said to be fructose, a sugar molecule that is commonly added to processed food in sweetening agents such as highfructose corn syrup (HFCS). There is increasing evidence that excess fructose has harmful effects on the body. In their commentary, the experts propose adding taxes to processed foods that contain any form of added sugar. These would include carbonated drinks, other sugar-sweetened beverages such as juice and chocolate milk, and sugared cereals. Other strategies included controlling access with measures such as age limits for the purchase of sugary drinks, and tightening controls on vending machines and snack bars in schools and workplaces. However, the scientists stressed that to achieve a societal shift away from high sugar consumption, the public had to be better informed about the emerging science behind

sugar. Professor Schmidt, from UCSF's Philip R Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, said: "There is an enormous gap between what we know from science and what we practice in reality. "In order to move the health needle, this issue needs to be recognised as a fundamental concern at the global level." She added: "We're not talking prohibition. We're not advocating a major imposition of the Government into people's lives. We're talking about gentle ways to make sugar consumption slightly less convenient, thereby moving people away from the concentrated dose. "What we want is to actually increase people's choices by making foods that aren't loaded with sugar comparatively easier and cheaper to get." Professor Brindis, director of the Philip R Lee Institute, said: "We recognise that there are cultural and celebratory aspects of sugar. Changing these patterns is very complicated." The experts concluded in their article: "Regulating sugar will not be easy — particularly in the 'emerging markets' of developing countries where soft drinks are often cheaper than potable water or milk. "We recognise that societal intervention to reduce the supply and demand for sugar faces an uphill political battle against a powerful sugar lobby, and will require active engagement from all stakeholders."

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Page 8 Mature Living February 2012

staircase at a price of only €1699 + VAT which is reclaimable through VAT 61A Form for elderly and disabled. These stairlifts come with a 2 year warranty and we are so confident to beat any Acorn Stairlift Quote that if we are shown a cheaper price we guarantee to beat it (T&C’s Apply). So whether you are disabled, elderly or looking on behalf of a family member, you can count on DPMS for excellent prices and service throughout the country. We offer a delivery service for any product required. So please don’t hesitate to call us today on 1800-938077 or visit DPMS.ie to obtain a quote or brochure. Please also feel free to visit our new website Stairlift.ie for any stairlift solutions you are interested in.

Sonas Village promoting independent living in a friendly and safe environment

onas Villages, located at Ard na Greine, Enniscrone, Co Sligo, Cloverhill, Roscommon and Cloghanboy, Ballymahon Road, Athlone, promote independent living to older people who decide for various reasons to move from their own homes to a supportive and safe environment. The villages are set in the peaceful, yet secure, grounds of Sonas Care Centres and are within walking distance of the town centre offering a range of amenities. The villages are an exclusive development of one and two bedroom houses which offer an independent lifestyle with 24/7 access if required to the care and services available at the nursing home on the same grounds. A central social centre, managed by a residents committee, provides a focal point for activities and services. Sonas villages are managed and maintained by Sonas. The houses, each with a high specification, have a 24 hour emergency call system to adjacent nursing home. Associated services include emergency nurse on call, personal care if required, social centre, maintenance of grounds, external maintenance of houses and insurance. Sonas Village prides itself in creating

a home-from-home for all its residents. These houses, which can be purchased or rented, provide a unique opportunity for older people to pursue an independent lifestyle in a safe environment. Care packages to include personal care, meals, cleaning service and house maintenance are available and can be tailor-made to meet the individual needs of residents. Further information can be obtained by calling to view the houses or you can telephone or email Enniscrone 096 37840, enniscronecc@sonas.ie ; Athlone 090 6479568 athlonecc@sonas.ie. All information in relation to Sonas services can be viewed at www.sonas.ie.

Feature by Stella Carroll

Pat 'Supermac' McDonagh

FROM THE CLASSROOM TO THE BOARDROOM. A STORY OF A PARTICULARLY IRISH SUCCESS.

at McDonagh received his nick name from a witty supporter during a Gaelic football match many years ago. The name stuck and became the obvious choice for his fast food business. Supermac's is Irelands' most successful homegrown quick-service restaurant, with over 103 outlets, both North and South. However, life could have been very different if this Galway man had not made some courageous career choices, and then backed those choices up with hard work, enthusiasm and passion. While working as a secondary school teacher

in his native Ballinasloe, Pat made his first tentative steps into the fast food business. A chip van at the Galway races and sporting events soon gave way to the opening of the inaugural Supermacs restaurant in 1978. Giving up the day job and beginning a new career meant working nights, days and every waking minute. It was a bold choice, particularly for a family man. However, leaving the relative security of a salaried, pensionable post was undoubtedly the best decision of his life. In the ensuing years, he has established Supermac's as one of Ireland's best known businesses, employing over 2,500 people nationally.

“Work harder, work smarter, and see what other opportunities are out there for your business.”

Pat is married to Una, and has four children. Marie, Siobhan, John and Conor, and he credits his solid family life as an integral part of his success. “ The family is hugely important, in that the support and comfort of home life helps you relax

and unwind“ he laughs “ It’s a true leveller, when some one is asking you to make the tea or whatever it is that you should have done, you

are brought firmly back to ground. It’s all good fun and part of any goings-on in a family.” Una has always been involved in the business too. “I think she has more knowledge of the day to day running of things than I do and this is essential when you are making decisions. “ says Pat “You can become a bit removed from things over time, so it’s really great that we talk things over together.” Expansion has never frightened Pat and when he sees an opportunity, he grasps it with both hands. The Cladagh Irish Pubs and Restaurants provided such an opportunity and Pat now has fifteen locations in the West and Midwest of the United States. A firm fan of the American can-do attitude to business, he divides his time between Ireland and visits to the U.S. to oversee his interests. There is always a new and exciting development to take back to Ireland.

Pictured at the site of the new Supermac’s €7 million, new ‘travel plaza’ in Moneygall are Pat and Una McDonagh of Supermac’s. This 12 acre site will be a major purpose-built motorway services facility along the M7 route between Dublin and Limerick and will create more than 50 jobs in the area. It will include a Supermac’s, Papa John’s Pizza and other food offerings included in a food court, as well as a convenience shop, fuel pumps and other facilities. Page 10 Mature Living February 2012

“If you can go to a match and you are not too involved in the organising, it’s a source of great relaxation and enjoyment.”

Papa John's Pizza was one such business which Pat felt could thrive in an Irish setting. He was proved right once again and there are now over 30 outlets throughout Ireland. Last year, he introduced the Quizno Subs franchise to this country. Quizno Subs offers healthy eating options which are proving very popular. Some might say he has a Midas touch. This may be true, but there is also the culmination of years of hard work and business acumen. There is a loyalty and respect amongst close staff which can only be inspired by admiration of his work ethic and personality. His advice to would-be entrepreneurs in the current economic downturn is simple and clear “ Work harder, work smarter, and see what other opportunities are out there for your business.” As a business man Pat is outstanding and exemplary, but he

Pat McDonagh, managing director of Supermac's, and Galway senior hurling star Ollie Canning. Sport plays a major part in Pats life.

Pat and Una McDonagh has not forgotten his roots and his main passions. “It is all about balance in your life. Whether that comes to you through, religion, sports or whatever, it is about maintaining that work life balance.” He remains committed to education and provides inspiration to young people through events like Supermac’s Bright Sparks Awards, which encourages secondary school business students to develop and present their own business ideas. He feels that young people should still dream big dreams, particularly in the challenging economic climate. The sponsorship of “Our School's Got Talent” competition in aid of Special Olympics continues this positive reinforcement of students. Pat and Una have always felt that in each community where he opens a business, there is a corporate social responsibility too and an impressive list of over 114 organisations, events and Charities, like Trocaire, have received funding over the past few years. Sports, both within the school system and within the community, continue to be a joy and pleasure for Pat. “It’s a great outlet in these times of stress in people’s lives generally” he laughs “If you can go to a match and you are not too involved in the organising, it’s a source of great relaxation and enjoyment .” The Galway Hurling team may be well associated with Supermac’s, for they have been sponsored in excess of €1.5 million over the years, but equally the local Hurling Club, Killimorday, have received the benefits of investment. Pat has worked with teams from primary school level right through to senior county and believes the discipline and commitment sports,

demands of players, translates into many other aspects of school, work and family life. It is wonderful to be able to tell a story of a particularly Irish success, especially in these times of doom and gloom. A story of a local man made good. A man who can seize opportunities in business and yet, remain loyal to his own roots. In these times of global recession and economic downturn, the teacher who turned entrepreneur, Pat 'Supermac' McDonagh, is an inspiration.

“Family is a true leveller, when some one is asking you to make the tea, you are brought firmly back to ground. It’s all good fun and part of any goings-on in a family.”

Page 11 Mature Living February 2012

Feature Feature Article

The quality alternative Ambulance Service "Don’t Worry, Ask for Murray" This is a catch phrase of Murray Ambulance Service Ltd., established by James Murray in Castlebar, Co Mayo, in 2009. transport is usually approved for the inter hospital transfer of a patient from one hospital to another for further treatments or investigations or from a hospital to an approved nursing home to facilitate convalescence subject to conditions. Murray Ambulance Service would be delighted to answer your questions on this if it arises for you. Telephone 094 9250999, 24 Hours.

James Murray with Luziminda OSullivan & Aoibhinn Ni Suillibhean (both former Roses of Tralee) at the launch of Murray Ambulance Service in ‘09.

he company now employ 18 people at three service centres in Castlebar, Galway and Limerick. The service caters for private patients who are funded by VHI, private patients who pay for the service themselves and public patients who receive funding from the HSE. In addition the Murray brand can be seen regularly at public events, i.e. GAA Championship games, Mayo Stages Rally, horse racing and other high profile events. Whilst mainly operating on the western seaboard Murray Ambulance Service provides a valuable service to speciality centres in Dublin when patients from the west have to be transferred there. In addition the company has, from time to time, taken patients to the UK and Europe. James Murray explained to us that every case is different and often there are differing means of funding patient transfers. Hence, most people ring in advance to see how the service operates and how it is funded. He has here compiled a list of some of the frequently asked questions to assist people who may be deciding to engage a private ambulance company for their ambulance transport. People should call 094-9250999

should they have any queries. And remember, "Don’t Worry, ask for Murray", and your problem will be sorted for you..

Ambulance set up for Bariatric Patient (stretcher set up with wider cushion and stretcher fixings situated in the middle of the ambulance floor). This stretcher can accommodate patients with weights up to 300kg or 47 stones. Frequently Asked Questions: Q. Does my health insurance cover me for ambulance transport with Murray Ambulance Service. A. Murray ambulance Service deals only with VHI, who have rules set out in the Members rule book. The rule of thumb is: Ambulance

Page 12 Mature Living February 2012

Q. Can I engage Murray Ambulance Service privately? A. Yes, of course. Murray Ambulance Service is frequently engaged by individuals to supply ambulance transport on a self-paying basis; The fee is discussed and set before the service is supplied. As each journey is unique in time and distance etc it would be impossible to list prices until the full facts of the call and the clients’ requirements are known. Q. Why use an ambulance service to fulfil an out patients / admission appointment. A. All Murray Ambulance Service Staff, like their counterparts in the National Ambulance Service, are registered and licensed by the Pre Hospital Emergency Care Council (the de facto regulatory body for Ambulance Services in Ireland, operating under the auspices of HIQA) and as such are trained to deal with all issues that may arise when transporting a patient from hospital to hospital, from home to hospital, or indeed from hospital to home. These issues may include mobility issues, toileting, treatment, monitoring, etc. We interact with all departments of all hospitals along the western seaboard as well as the major hospitals in Dublin and Cork. We park in the dedicated ambulance parking areas and know exactly how to access services as quickly as possible. Q. Can a family member / friend accompany the patient? A. Murray Ambulance Service are pleased to accommodate companions provided the patient is agreeable to the arrangement.

One of Murray Ambulance Service frontline emergency ambulances. Q. What equipment is carried on the Ambulances? A. Murray Ambulance Service operates two distinct types of Ambulance vehicles equipped to different levels. One is a front line emergency vehicle that is equipped with all the emergency equipment carried to deal with any pre-hospital emergency that may arise. These vehicles are deployed to facilitate the transfer of potentially unstable patients, usually from one hospital to another. The second type of vehicle is a non emergency vehicle equipped with basic life support equipment and patient comfort equipment. These are usually employed for the transfer of stable patients that are not expected to become emergencies. We also have capacity to transfer bariatric patients (obese patients). In this context we configure our stretcher clamps to the centre of the floor of our ambulance so as to accommodate a special stretcher that is larger than the standard stretcher and is rated to carry up to 300kg (47 stones approx.). This service needs a little extra notice as it needs some set up time. With Murray Ambulance Service you will benefit from a quality alternative ambulance experience. Murray Ambulance Service Coarsepark, Castlebar, Co Mayo Tel: 094 9250999 Fax: 094 9250999 Mobile: 087 9250999 / 087 6474999.

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The Home is situated in the picturesque village of Tooreen located 8kms from Knock International Airport. We are located in a dreamy country side with green pastures, organic vegetable gardens, beautiful walks with views of grazing cattle, loitering free range hens that offers a genuine cairn and peaceful county life experience. L-R Cyntha Clampett, CEO of Mayo Roscommon Hospice Knock, Tommy Feeney, Proprietor of Ave Maria Nursing Home, Mary Marsden, GNM3 Pallitive Homecare Team, Anne Feeney, Proprietor Ava Maria Nursing Home and Nora Whelan, Pallitive Care Nurse.

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The nursing home provides 24hrs of quality nursing care, respite and convalescent care, singla en-suite rooms, qualified escort nurse / carer to assist you with any local and international travel. Family and friends are welcome at our nursing home and we provide a self catering cottage on the grounds of the nursing home to accommodate and to facilitate for such visits. The Ethos in our home is to encourage residents to live life to the full based on a holistic approach with wellness of mind, body and soul. Our residents enjoy a healthy balanced diet with a variety of home-made breads and organic vegetables grown on site. Residents partake in a busy social life with music, gardening, bingo, frequent entertainment from the local foroige youth club, daily visits from the local Eucharistic Ministers who lead prayer and reflection and other finer things of life that offer you a "home away from home" atmosphere

Tooreen, Ballyhaunis County Mayo

Tel: 094-963 9999 / Fax: 094-963 9998

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Feature FeatureArticle by Stella Carroll

Charlie Easterfield Inspirational in Leitrim

harlie Easterfield has the most wonderfully warm and quirky wooden house nestled in the rolling hills near Manorhamilton. A stove warms the main room. A pile of animal skulls in one corner, waiting their use in a sculpture project. Plants, photographs and sketch work abounds. Books, wood carvings and interesting little quotations catch the eye. There is a wooden swing hanging from the ceiling. If a home is a reflection of the state of mind, then Charlie has an intriguing, busy and amazing mind. Quick to laugh, youthful and positive, Charlie Easterfield is an inspiration to us all. Born in England, sixty something years ago, she moved from Cork to Co. Leitrim in 1998, primarily to study stone carving at the Sculpture Centre in Manorhamilton. However, the land and people inspired her so much,

A selection of Charlie’s artwork

that she designed and built her unique house and set about planting the two and a half acre site. Her garden is a rambling walk in beauty, with sculptures and interesting stones hidden in the blooms and foliage “ Flowers and trees are my first love, but I grow some vegetables too, and I have planted an orchard and bio mass willows. I love this land and it is the first place that I have really set down my roots.” she says. “ I think it is because I was adopted, following the early death of my parents, that I never felt a sense of belonging before. But here, I feel I‘ve put down solid roots, and really feel at home.” Much of Charlie’s wood carvings adorn churches both here and in the U.K. We discuss the intangible things that keep a person youthful. A curious mind? A busy life? A healthy attitude and a sense of humour? It is obvious after a few minutes that Charlie does not think on age really, she just does what interests her next. “ Changing the medium I work in helps. I am sketching more now, sometimes incorporating words with the images. Words that uplift me. I meditate most days. It could be for just twenty minutes but it cleanses the brain and it informs my work.” This vitality and enthusiasm pervades all of Charlie’s art, her conversations and her life. She takes a healthy interest in world politics and current affairs. In the past, she was an activist at the famous Womens Greenham Common peace camp, opposed to nuclear weapons, and she retains a keen interest in

Charlie’s home the environment and Human Rights, and works with Refugee families in Ireland. Now, in her more mature years she finds that she is a reluctant activist once more. “I am desperately worried about the announcement that gas drilling, fracking, is to take place in Leitrim, and around the country. Its a disaster for the environment. If our water is contaminated, as happened elsewhere, we will have huge, and irreversible problems.” Charlie is actively campaigning with other locals to stop fracking in Leitrim and she welcomes the decision by the Co. Council of Sligo, Roscommon and Leitrim to declare a moratorium of one year in order to investigate it more. “These announcements that Leitrim may or may not have billions of gas under the ground don’t take into account the real price of extracting it and our Agriculture, Tourism and Food industries could be

destroyed. Yes, we need jobs but not at this price.” Looking out over the winter fields, a small stream babbling and the birds singing, I feel Charlie’s passion for this unspoilt beauty. “When you are young, your life stretches like an endless road, but as we age time becomes precious and I try not to waste it. My days are full and exciting. This fracking business is taking a lot of my energy and you can even see the effects of it in my recent artwork, but age makes you calmer and I hope that my home, which I designed and built, remains the firm base for my two sons to come to, and even to live and work if they want, and for me to enjoy in peace.” High on the kitchen wall, an inspirational quote in large gold letters reminds us to 'Share happily and reap endlessly' Charlie puts the kettle on, a cat snores in the corner and the evening settles around us.

Mens Fashion

Oliver’s Menswear, dressing the men of the west for over 20 years Fashion for the mature man

hink of other men hovering on one side or the other of the cusp of 50: Tom Hanks, Andy Garcia, Bruce Willis, Billy Bob Thornton, Kevin Costner, Dennis Leary, and Billy Idol. Bet you still think of these guys as looking pretty vital. They are also pretty true to their own style– just adapted it to stay with the times, to be modern. By the time you’re half way to 100, you should have been able to gather the style momentum to figure out your own personal style. Getting older means learning from your past fashion mistakes, like being the guy in the Speedo who was not built like Mark Spitz, and forging ahead in a more streamlined and easy manner. Give up the idea of long hair when you barely have 3-hairs on the top. Look in the mirror and be real about what you have to work with—at any age! As we mature, fashion needs to be less fussy and more sleek and sophisticated, but not fuddyduddy. Top quality men’s fashion designers have clothing that is designed for style not your date of birth. Sure, there are some pieces in every collection that are cut for the very young, but that is such a small part of an overall designer line. Buy fewer pieces, but better pieces each season. If you can’t afford clothing from the big guns in men’s fashion, get inspired by their design and find less expensive versions of similar styles. Look like you’ve made it rather than you’re

OLIVER’S was established in Ballina, Co Mayo, in 1991 by Oliver and Marian Murphy and is located in the heart of the town at Bridge Street, very close to the famous River Moy.

hopelessly still trying to figure it all out. Most important, stay modern and avoid the traps of wearing the same clothing that dates you for years and years.

oliver@olivers-menswear.com

Oliver's is recognised as a leading menswear shop housing the best of Irish and International clothing brands. Their clothing range has got something for everyone. Whether you are looking for classic coats, tailored suits, contemporary casuals or superb knitwear you will find it here. Oliver’s is a family owned business, specializing in Menswear, Suit Hire and Casual Wear for the younger man. Alongside is Sarangra Ladies Boutique. Both outlets are renowned for the highest quality clothing as well as their specialist advice and personal attention. A true, one-stop shop which caters for the needs of all who wish to dress stylishly and to whom quality is very important. Oliver’s extensive hirewear department offers the best in quality and service for that special occasion. Our Dress Hire Department has its own private area where you will receive individual attention, professional advice and will be able to select from one of the most comprehensive collections of menswear available. There are many colours and jacket styles to choose from, together with a fabulous array of classic, modern and contemporary waistcoat designs and accessories. At Olivers Menswear we offer a great choice of menswear with well known brands such as Magee, Van Kollem, Profuomo, Baumler, Olymp, with shirts from Jaques Britt and Andre. Oliver’s prides itself on the personal service and attention to detail which they give to every customer. Without question, it is quality, durability and, therefore, true value for money that has sustained Oliver’s Menswear for the past twenty years.

Page 15 Mature Living February 2012

Travel

Big Apple on a Budget Fancy treating yourself to a bite of the Big Apple, without breaking the bank? Here we let you in on a few secrets about the city that never sleeps.

The Brooklyn Bridge

ew York, New York! Romantic city breaks don’t come much better than this and with daily flights from Ireland every week you and your loved one can be stateside in the blink of an eye, and all for less than €600 (each) return. Dublin has its double deckers, and of course NY is famous for its yellow cabs, but if it’s just the two of you checkout AirTrain JFK (www.panynj.gov/airtrain). With direct links to the subway (which runs 24/7) you can be in

Manhattan within the hour for a bargain basement $7.25 – as long as you don’t mind carrying your bags that is. When it comes to accommodation you’re spoilt for choice – from budget hotels to hostels, rental apartments to five star luxury. If you want to be at the heart of the action without stretching the purse strings too tightly settle for the Econo Lodge Times Square (www.econolod-

You can’t visit New York without treating your other half to a Broadway show

getimessquare.com). No Ritz by any stretch of the imagination - think more along the lines of a stars and stripes version of a Travelodge - but for around €100 a room per night, complete with continental breakfast, one can't complain.

For a bird’s eye view of the city take a trip up the 102-story Empire State Building, the tallest skyscraper in Manhattan New York can seem a little overwhelming at first so why not get your bearings with a bit of help from one of the locals? Big Apple Greeter (www.bigapplegreeter.org) is a to-

Page 16 Mature Living February 2012

tally free service that matches volunteer guides with sightseers – these guys really know their stuff and as introductions go you can’t do much better. For a bird’s eye view of the city take a trip up the 102-story Empire State Building, the tallest skyscraper in Manhattan. Avoid the lengthy queues by buying your tickets online (www.esbnyc.com/tourism.asp) before you go. The Rockefeller Centre’s Top of the Rock Observation Deck is also popular with tourists and up until mid April you can get a sky skate combination ticket which also gives you a stint on their famous ice rink. To see the island from another angle take a ride on the Staten Island Ferry. It won’t cost you a penny and is unbeatable for views of the harbour and the ultimate photo opportunity of America’s most famous lady - the Statue of Liberty. Speaking of which, tickets to the museum, pedestal and much coveted crown are limited and can only

The Statue of Liberty

wander back over Brooklyn Bridge for breathtaking views of one of the world’s most famous skylines. be purchased beforehand so go online (www.libertytickets.us) to avoid disappointment.

One of the best ways to explore Manhattan, and really get a feel for the city, is on foot. Hop on the tube (which is pretty safe during daylight hours) and wander back over Brooklyn Bridge for breathtaking views of one of the world’s most famous skylines. Of course, it isn’t quite the same without the twin towers but you can stop and pay your respects at the 9/11 Memorial which sits on the site of the former World Trade Centre. Tickets are free but you need to reserve passes online (www.911memorial.org). Afterwards why not sample some authentic cuisine in Chinatown or Little Italy? Check out the art and ultra chic shopping on the streets of SoHo (which literally means South of Houston street). Grab a coffee in Greenwich Village (which you might recognise as the backdrop to the TV show Friends) or escape the concrete jungle, for a little while at

Times Square least, in Central Park. Don’t miss Strawberry Fields, a tribute to the late John Lennon, and the 18-acre lake used for ice-skating in the winter months and boating in the summer. One of the most famous areas of NY is Times Square which, as the name suggests, is just a few minutes walk from the Econo Lodge . Best known for its iconic bright lights and giant billboards Times Square is also the gateway to the theatre district. You can’t visit New York without treating your other half to a Broadway show but tickets can be expensive – unless you’re prepared to queue that is. TKTS (www.tdf.org/tkts) offer discount seats to musicals and plays and with up to 50% off it’s worth the wait!

For your own 15 seconds of fame visit the American Eagle clothing store on Times Square and pose in their miniature photo studio. Within minutes your picture and message will be beamed onto the building’s 25 storey LED screens for everyone to see! Shopping is something NY is especially good at – so make sure you leave plenty of space in your suitcase for the return journey... There really is something for everyone - from FAO Schwarz toy store (the scene of Tom Hanks’ giant piano playing in the film Big) to Tiffany & Co, where Audrey Hepburn had breakfast. And since you saved so much dosh on the sightseeing, why not show the Mrs. just how much you love her with a sparkly reminder of a truly magical trip?

Manhatten China Town

Page 17 Mature Living February 2012

Travel

A holiday with heart

Many travellers are using their vacation time and skills to give something back. What to know if you're considering a volunteer vacation.

hortly after the earthquake in Haiti, a friend’s Facebook status captured what many people were feeling when she wrote she “wishes she could do more for Haiti than just throw money at it.” It’s not just recent events that tug at the heart strings. It’s hard to be inundated with images and videos of hardship and disaster around the world and not want to help in a meaningful way. To an increasing number of people, that means doing more than simply opening their wallets: it means packing their bags.

It’s hard to be inundated with images and videos of hardship and disaster around the world and not want to help in a meaningful way. Volunteer tourism — or voluntourism, for short — is one travel trend that shows no signs of waning. It’s more than a way to immerse oneself in the local culture and experience the daily life of a place; it’s an opportunity to give back. For instance, travellers on a

volunteer vacation might find themselves building homes for victims of natural disasters, providing education and medical assistance to children in an impoverished area or helping farmers in a Third World country upgrade their techniques. Volunteer vacations aren’t just for students on a gap year getaway. There are hundreds of short- and long-term opportunities for people of all ages, including families, solo travellers and Zoomers. There’s room for a wide range of skills and abilities too, like health care, construction, environmental conservation and teaching. Some organisations such as the Niall Mellon trust specialise in one particular type of volunteer work (like constructing new homes), while others like Goal offer a range of opportunities like teaching business skills to entrepreneurs in developing countries or working for women’s empowerment. If you’re thinking about a volunteer vacation, here are some tips to help you plan: Access your strengths. There’s no shortage of activities to choose from, but you’ll be able to contribute more to an organisation or project where your skills are a good fit. For instance, if you enjoy working with your hands, consider helping to build a school or dig wells. If your strengths lean more towards reading and writing, volunteer to teach English instead. Consider locations. There are a lot of choices as to where you can employ your skills, and it’s okay to consider your own interests as well. Are there other activities and sights nearby you’d like to see? Is there a culture you’d like to learn more about, or a cause

in which you strongly believe? Can you speak the local language?

suggestions and tips for fundraising to help volunteers finance their trip.

If your budget is tight, you don’t have to fly half way around the world to volunteer. Check out programs that are based here in Ireland and in the Uk

Consider health and safety. How safe is the location, and who is looking after health and security? Reputable organizations should have solid emergency plans and a way to stay informed about changing circumstances. If you have any health concerns, make sure there are facilities nearby that can address them in an emergency. You’ll also want to make sure you have travel insurance that includes medical evacuation. Unfortunately, women, people who are homosexual and people who are of certain religious or ethnic backgrounds face additional challenges when travelling in certain countries. It’s important to look into the laws and customs that can help keep you safe.

Dig into the details. Part of the point is to get outside of your usual comfort zone, so expect to “rough it” a little. Are you comfortable staying in a local’s home, or sharing accommodations with other volunteers? Are you up for travelling by ground or sea? Evaluate opportunities carefully to make sure there aren’t any surprises. Think about timing. It’s a knee-jerk reaction to want to fly to the scene of the latest disaster, but it’s no place for untrained workers. Leave it to the military and international relief organisations for the first few months at least. Once order and infrastructure are back in place, there will be many opportunities to help out in the months and years ahead. Weigh the costs. Unfortunately, your time and effort aren’t the only price. You’ll most likely be paying for your own flights, accommodations, equipment, meals and other incidental expenses — not to mention the trip prep you’ll need before you go (like training or vaccinations). As with any vacation package, find out what costs are and are not covered, and do some comparison shopping. Look into fundraising. Trips can run into thousands of euros, but there may be help covering the costs. Find out if there are any grants or fundraising opportunities to help out. Many companies offer

Page 18 Mature Living February 2012

Check travel requirements. Make sure your paperwork is in order. Some countries require work or volunteer permits, and you may be required to show proof of vaccination for certain conditions like yellow fever. Research the organisation. Unfortunately, where there are people willing to do good there are scammers eager to take advantage of them. Fraudulent advertisements and offers have robbed would-be volunteers of their cash. As with any kind of travel, it’s important to work with organizations you trust. Take the time to do a little background research to find out if the organization provides good training and preparation before you go, if they offer foreign language support, if their programs are sustainable and if they use their funds wisely. Be on the lookout for con artists and offers that sound a little too good.

‘Sandwich Generation’ Women need to care for themselves

8 signs you may be heading for Burn-Out ‘SANDWICH Generation’ women – those between the ages of 35 and 54 who care for children and for elderly parents and who sometimes also work outside the home as well – need to ensure they don’t burn out. “Many women think they should be able to shoulder all responsibilities on their own and don’t ask for help,” says Heather Gately owner of Home Instead Senior Care Galway, “but ‘sandwich women’ as they are sometimes referred to need to ensure they don’t neglect their own health.” There are 8 signs to look out for as warning signs that burn-out may be approaching. Heather advises, “Take stock of your stress level by asking yourself whether you're experiencing any of the following emotional and physical symptoms. For an even better reality check, have your partner or someone close to you answer the questions for you – honestly. There's no formula for defining your stress level, but if your ‘yes’ answers outnumber your ‘no’ answers, or if just two or three of the categories seem to apply to you, consider taking steps to ease your situation.” 1. Do you have a short fuse? • Do you lose your temper easily? • Do you feel angry with your parent? • Do you feel irritable toward other family members or find yourself snapping at them? One of the more obvious signs of stress is losing your cool easily. Frustration may particularly increase when obstacles or challenges come up, whether major or minor. 2.Emotional outbursts • Do you cry often or unexpectedly? • Do you experience feelings of despair? • Do you have dramatic mood swings? It's natural to grieve as a parent's condition declines. It's also normal to feel a complicated range of emotions about having to parent your parent. But if you're increasingly emotional or feeling emotionally fragile, there may be something more going on. Depression is a real risk for those caring for others. Even if you're not clinically depressed, emotional outbursts can be an unconscious outlet for feelings of being overwhelmed. 3.Sleep problems • Do you have trouble falling asleep? • Do you have trouble staying asleep? • Do you wake up tired? Trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep can also be caused by stress, anxiety, and depression.

4.Significant weight change • Have you recently gained weight? • Have you recently lost weight? For some people, stress can result in weight loss when they can't seem to find time to eat adequately or nutritiously. Anxiety often lowers the appetite as well. For others, feeling stressed or guilty leads to weight gain from mindless or emotionally triggered eating, frequent snacking, or quick but unhealthy food choices. Changes in eating and sleeping habits can also indicate depression. If your weight has changed by more than five or ten pounds since you began caring for your parent(s) as well as your children, your body may be sending you a signal that you need help. 5. Lethargy • Is it difficult to get motivated to accomplish things? • Do you feel sluggish even after a good night's rest? • Is it hard to concentrate when you read or perform other mental tasks? • Do you feel bored? Do you feel "off" instead of "on,"? Is it hard to perform all your duties adequately? You may need to restore some ‘you time’ to your life. 6.Physical ailments • Do you get headaches often? • Have you had colds one after another? • Does your back or neck ache, or do you have other chronic pain? • Have you developed high blood pressure? Mental and emotional stress can cause physical disorders. For example, stress can lead to headaches that are more frequent, more persistent, or stronger than you're used to. Under stress, your body is in a constant state of alert, which can cause your body to produce excessive amounts of the hormone cortisol, which can have many effects. You'll also lack the time or inclination to properly take care of yourself, setting the stage for more stress. People under stress may also find themselves suffering from high blood pressure or more frequent stomach aches, cold symptoms, muscle aches, or other health problems. 7.Social isolation • If not working outside the home, do you sometimes go a whole day without seeing another adult aside from your parent(s)? • Have you dropped out of your usual activities as you don’t have time for them? • Can you remember the last time you had a whole day to yourself? • Do you feel like nobody understands?

• Do you sometimes feel that other family members don't care as much about your parent's fate as you do? Whether intentionally or not, with all the demands on your time, you may become withdrawn. Unfortunately, social isolation itself contributes to stress, whereas being with friends and taking time for yourself are both replenishing. 8.Complaints from family • Have you been accused of being a "control freak"? • Have you been told you don't spend enough time with your partner or children? • Are arguments with siblings over your parent's care on the rise? A Stress test can also be taken on www.caregiverstress.com How to restore balance: Heather Gately comments, “It's a common temptation -- and mistake

– especially for women - to take on the entire burden of care. Here are some things you can do to restore some balance to your life: set aside a little time every day to talk to a friend – even if you can’t meet them, have a chat on the phone, if just for a few minutes; also, carve out a niche every week for a favourite pastime – whether it’s reading, gardening, keeping fit – time for you. If you can’t get out of the house, have a movie night at home and invite a friend or two over; ask extended family, friends and neighbours for help; find out what’s available in the community – for example, a day care centre or other respite help, or get in touch with Home Instead and one of our CARE GIVERS can come in for an hour or so a week and give you a break. ” For further information, visit www.homeinstead.ie or call (091) 384 160.

Pets Corner

The best breeds for allergy sufferers Are there pet allergies in your household? These dogs and cats might be the solution for pet lovers.

Maltese Puppy

t’s hard to be allergic to something you love, but furry and feathered friends can trigger reactions that aren’t so lovable, from sniffling and sneezing to asthma attacks. What’s a pet lover with allergies to do? The obvious answer: Buy a fish. An aquarium has many advantages, but pet affection isn’t one of them.

Snakes, lizards, turtles and small animals like hamsters and mice are options too, and they don’t require as much care or attention. Still, there’s no getting around the fact that cats and dogs are the most popular pets in Ireland. But there is good news for pet lovers with allergies: not all cats and dogs are equal when it comes to allergies.

With some careful research, it is possible for people will less severe allergies to share their home with a four-legged companion — so long as they proceed with caution. Finding the right fit First, it’s important to understand the cause of allergies. Despite what you may have read, no dog or cat is

truly allergen-free or hypoallergenic — even those “hairless” or “nonshedding” varieties. That’s because it’s not the hair that’s the issue, according to experts. Most people react to the dander — those tiny dead skin cells that slough off. They’re so small that they can become trapped in fur, clothes, carpeting and furniture, and once

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Sponsored by Pet Stop Discount Warehouse • Sligo • Ballina & Castlebar they’re in the air, we can easily inhale them. It’s usually certain proteins in the skin secretions that make people sick. In addition, these allergens are present in urine and saliva, making grooming and cleaning litter boxes dodgy tasks as well. When these fluids dry, particles can become airborne and stay in the air for hours. However, some breeds get the nod for being more compatible than others with people who have minor allergies. There hasn’t been a lot of clinical investigation into the issue as of yet, but here are some breeds to consider. Better breeds for allergies — Cats If you’re dreaming of a fluffy kitty in your lap, you might be a little disappointed by this list — at least until you get to know the breeds a little better. According to the experts at About.com, these cats are thought to be less allergenic: • Rex breeds (like the Cornish Rex, Deven Rex and Selkirk Rex). When it comes to fur coats, these breeds are missing a layer. There’s no top coat — just a short, fine undercoat that won’t hold as much dander and saliva from grooming. • Sphynx cats. With big ears and nearly bald bodies, these cats look eerily like felines straight out of

The obvious answer: Buy a fish. An aquarium has many advantages, but pet affection isn’t one of them.

ancient Egyptian artwork. While the term “hairless” isn’t quite accurate — these cats are covered in a fine down — they won’t shed much and allergens could be kept to a minimum with a regular rub-down. • Siberian blue and Russian blue. If you prefer some hair on your cat, these might be your breeds. While there isn’t a lot of scientific proof, it’s thought that these cats produce only negligible amounts of the Fel d1 protein, the allergen that most cats produce, or at least they produce less than the average house cat. (For more information, visit About.com.) Better breeds for allergies — Dogs When it comes to canines, it’s also dander — not shedding or hair length — that’s usually the culprit. Breeds that produce the least amount of dander include: • Bedlington terrier • Bichon frise • Chinese crested (a mostly hairless breed) • Irish water spaniel • Kerry blue terrier • Maltese • Poodle • Portuguese water dog • Schnauzer • Soft-coated Wheaten terrier • Mexican hairless dog (or xoloitzcuintli, also a hairless breed) What about designer mixed breeds that claim to be hypoallergenic? Pet parents should be warned there’s no guarantee the puppies will share the characteristics of their non-shedding parent. For instance, a Labradoodle pup — a cross between a Labrador retriever and a poodle — may not take after the poodle parent. Allergens, of course, are only part of the issue. Experts warn that finding the right dog is also about making sure their temperament, instinctual behaviours, activity levels and size are right for your home and family. Other factors to consider Breeds can provide some guidelines, but they’re only part of the solution. Some other factors to include in your thinking are:

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Siberian blue Kitten

• Individual chemistry. Believe it or not, it’s possible to be allergic to one member of a dog breed but able to tolerate another. Scientists aren’t quite sure why, but it may have to do with certain proteins in the saliva and skin secretions (or combinations thereof) produced by the individual pet — and how they react with an individual person. These proteins can differ between breeds, and among members of the same breed. (With cats, there’s a universal allergen.) If you’re adopting, experts advise to spend some time with the pet and see how you feel — though symptoms may not show up until hours later. Health issues. Some problems like dandruff are more common in certain varieties, but they aren’t limited to specific breeds of dogs. Again, there’s isn’t a lot of evidence, but some breeds like German shepherds and cocker spaniels could be worse for allergies because the dogs are thought to turn over their skin at a faster rate. Other issues like incontinence could also be a problem.

The environment. If you’re sniffling when Fluffy or Fido jumps in your lap, it might not be due to dander. Dust mites — one of the most common allergens — can cling to animal fur and end up everywhere your pet goes. Likewise, common outdoor allergens like pollen and moulds can hitch a ride on your pets. How can you tell what the cause is? Allergy testing can get at the root of the problem, and help you target ways to cut down on allergens. Cleanliness. Are you willing to make some adaptations to your home and routine? You can reduce allergens by installing a HEPA filter, creating petfree zones and replacing carpeting with flooring. Regular baths for your pet (yes, your cat too) can also make a big difference. Above all else, the safety and comfort of your household should be top priority. Experts agree that pets shouldn’t be introduced into homes where a family member has an allergy — especially if asthma and breathing problems are a risk.

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Money Matters

Gold Coins

You have a lump WITH many public servants opting for retirement at this time we include here some general advice and some basic fundamentals to consider before making a decision on how and where to invest sums of money. It features some questions and answers on investing.

Aside from traditional investment tools like shares, bonds or property, you can also put your money into valuable objects like gold, art and antiques. Gold is proven to be one of the best ways of creating a diverse portfolio. As a limited resource gold’s value will only increase as the supply exceeds demand. There are many ways of investing in gold, allowing investors who are new in the game to experiment with different investment strategies while still putting money into a relatively stable asset. You can buy gold bullion (gold bullions are avail-

able in different weights, from as low as 32.15 troy ounces, to 400 troy ounces), trade in gold futures, or invest directly into gold refining companies of gold mines. If you wish to invest in gold, it’s safe to start with one-ounce national gold bullion coins. First, it gives what experts call “low premium over content”, meaning you get the most amount of gold for the value you are willing to invest. They are easy to store, and also easy to sell. Unlike gold bars, where you have to sell the whole object, gold coins let you liquidate fractions of your total collection.

Questions & Answers Q. I will be retiring shortly, and part of my retirement package will include a tax free lump sum. While I am going to spend some of the money, I would also like to invest some of my lump sum. What are the key factors that I should consider in relation to investments? You have spent a lot of years building up your retirement benefits and it’s important before making any investment decision that you consider all your options. Sorting through all the options available can be a mine field with a large range of possible investments. It is always worth considering seeking advice before you put plans into action. With any investment decision, I would suggest you ask yourself three simple questions. The answers to these, should give you a good sense of where you should place your funds.

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1) What level of security do you require? In any investment, the greater the level of risk that you are willing to take the higher the return that you are likely to earn. Many people saw the value of investments rise sharply and decline at different times over recent years. Some people are comfortable that while markets will fluctuate from time to time, that their investment in the stock market should out-perform the return on cash deposits over time. Others will see capital security as a necessary feature in any investment they make. There are many new ways of investing that allow you the opportunity to achieve capital growth in a manner that reduces the risks normally associated with

You have spent a lot of years building up your retirement benefits and it’s important before making any investment decision that you consider all your options investing in stockmarkets. However, the real point is to first understand your own attitude towards investment risk, before you make any decisions with regards investing.

sum to invest?

2) What level of access will you require to your investments over time?

It is important to review your financial circumstances before you make any investment decision. As part of this process, you should identify what sum you will require for short to medium term spending needs, and establish an “emergency fund”, which could be accessed readily if needed. These sums should be placed in various forms of cash deposits, from demand to fixed term deposits. You could then consider investing the money away in longer term investments that provides the potential for greater returns. The remainder could be placed in investments aimed at generating growth, typically managed funds of shares, bonds, and/or property. While managed funds should be held for five to seven years or more, most will allow early access to your money if required. Many people will look at five years as far too long for any investment. However when you look at the SSIA scheme, most people found that saving for five years was not a big problem. Time is one of the most important ingredients in the investment mix though, so be sure that you have readily accessible sum of money to meet any short-term or unexpected requirements. 3) What level of growth do you require? While you might think that this is too hard a question to answer because you will always want the highest growth possible, you will find that the answer often lies within the purpose of saving. Many people leave money on deposit

as a nest egg for their retirement. But they forget about the damaging effects of inflation, which reduces the future spending power of your money. We can all see that costs are steadily rising as we examine our growing household and shopping bills. But inflation in areas such as healthcare and nursing home expenses are rising much faster than in the economy as a whole. It is critical that in deciding what you will do with your money that you strongly consider the required level of growth of your investment so that it will meet your future spending needs. In summary, the starting point when considering any investment is to look at it from the perspectives of 1) Security 2) Access and 3) Growth. Q. I have been advised that I should invest in a tracker bond, can you tell me what a tracker bond is and the pro's and cons of investing in one? A tracker bond is a product that provides a return linked to the performance of a stock market index, or more often a basket of indices such as the US S&P 500 or the UK FTSE 100. It typically provides a a level of capital security at a specified date. In most cases, tracker bonds will provide 100% capital security but in some cases, the capital security can be 80 or 90%. In most cases, these are fixed term products and early encashments are not permitted. Tracker bonds must usually be held for five or six years. To provide the capital guarantee, a high percentage of your money is placed on deposit and the remainder is used to buy stock market options which provide the return on your investment. Because all of your money is not invested in the markets, your return is usually limited to 50% or 60% of the growth of those indices. Tracker bonds may be suitable for people seeking a return greater than that available from deposits without risk to their capital and who are comfortable with the lack of flexibility of the product. There are other capital secure investments available, which have greater flexibility than tracker bonds and may be worth considering. There are also a new “breed” of investments, pioneered known as “Risk-Managed Funds”. These are innovative ways of investing that aim to provide you with a clear, understandable, transparent way of investing for growth, with the added benefit of reducing or eliminating certain investment risks.

Fine Art BUYING art and antiques can be risky, as they can be difficult to liquidate, values can be erratic (especially when judging the future price of a subjective piece like a painting), and unless you are an expert, easy to forge. However, there are some guidelines that can help you decide which pieces to invest in. As a rule, buy the best you can afford, and look for pieces that are in mint condition. Serious collectors are willing to pay good money for what they know to be masterpieces, and will simultaneously ignore mediocre work. Thus, high quality work is easier to sell. Look for pieces with provenance (documents and history), which prove the work’s authenticity and endow the object with a story or context. Look for signed objects, and if the signature can be seen on the work when it is displayed, that is even better. If you are just starting out, start with small-scale objects, not just because they are smaller and the prices are more manageable, but they are easier to display. Collectors want to display their prized pieces, and it is easier to show off a vase than a suit of armour. Also, select pieces that represent

the signature style of the artist or period. Collectors or even casual art admirers will not associate certain artists with a particular style of painting, and will not immediately recognise it as theirs. This greatly reduces the desirability of the piece and makes it more difficult to unload.

A painting by Jack Butler Yeats, which reappeared on the market following 67 years in private ownership, sold for €1m in Dublin this evening. This is the highest price paid for a painting or work of art in Ireland at an auction. The painting entitled 'A Fair Day, Mayo' once hung in Eamon De Valera's office and was sold for £250 to Mr JP Reihill Snr in 1944. It has remained in the Reihill family ever since.

Memories

The Bands of our Showband Era

here were hundreds of them. Irish bands of every size, description and musical genre travelling the roads and borheens of Ireland. They travelled the length and breadth of the country from the 1950's through the mid 1980's. Although "officially" the term showband was coined in the late fifties and was used to describe bands that played a wide variety of music and usually included a "show" during the night, the term was gradually applied to all the bands that played in the 1960's. As the Irish music scene splintered in the late sixties into pop, country bands, the term was dropped but we still find it the best overall description of the bands of

Article and Photos courtesy of Gerry Gallagher www.irish-showbands.com

the "ballroom" era. In the early days, they travelled in whatever they could find...bread vans, hearses, and even cars (roof racks and all). In later years, many (if not most) of them travelled in converted Ford Transit vans (like the one pictured right) that were normally used for delivery services. After a couple of windows were popped into the centre panels, a row or two of old airplane seats were installed and the band was ready to travel "in style." Although style was a matter of opinion...if you're stuck in the back of a van on a cold and rainy winter's night, it may seem like "a long way to Tipperary," but it's even further to Castletownbere, Co. Cork!

The Kim Newport Band (1978-1983)

or over five years - from July, 1978 through September, 1983 - The Kim Newport Band toured the ballrooms, dance clubs, and cabaret circuit across Ireland. During that time, Kim appeared on Ireland's national television network (RTE) ten times, including two appearances on Ireland's top rated Late Late Show with legendary host, Gay Byrne. She released nine singles, and played in every county in Ireland. Kim arrived in Ireland in July, 1978. She and husband, Gerry Gallagher had met and performed together in California the previous year. Born in California, this was to be Kim's first home outside the "Golden State." Gerry lived and worked in Sligo from 1970 to 1976, including a stint with the original Magic and the Magic band from 1974-75. Gerry recruited former local band mates Dick Lynott, Joe Foley, and Seamie McGowan (all from Sligo) and the band played it's first gig as Kim Newport and California in the Blue Lagoon, Sligo. The band quickly established themselves as a top regional band by winning the "Opportunity Knocks"

Page 24 Mature Living February 2012

talent competition in Ballyshannon, County Donegal. They gained a reputation for playing a good mix of pop and rock music, with a touch of country thrown in. Kim was also a solo winner in the Benson and Hedges "Golden Voice" competition held in Ballina, Co. Mayo. Within a few months, the band signed with Tom Kelly Promotions of Ballina, who also managed the Fairways Band featuring Gary Street and Sandy Duskey (now Sandy Kelly). On August 15th, Kim and the band travelled to Dublin to Dick Keating's Cuckoo's Nest Studio where they recorded Linda Ronstadt's When Will I Be Loved and Barbra Streisand's Evergreen as their first demos. After hearing the band's demo, Marcus Connaughton of Hawk Records came to hear the band play and they were signed by Brian Molloy and Marcus on December 13, 1978. Hawk was also home to the Cotton Mill Boys and Johnny McEvoy, among other top Irish acts. Kim's first recording was with The Cotton Mills Boys on their single You Are No Angel. On March 3, 1979, Stop, Think was featured at the launch of the Northwestern Health Board's anti-drinking campaign and was a featured story on RTE's Evening News. The song was written by RTE Producer (and former Greenbeat) John Keogh to

It will be impossible to list all the bands that played the dance halls, ballrooms, marquees, parochial halls, community centres, hotels, and town halls across Ireland but each month we are planning to feature a band from the west with the help of Gerry Gallagher and www.irish-showbands.com . Apart from a few who enjoy near mythical status (such as the Royal Showband and a handful of others), most bands came together, played for a few years and then either reinvented themselves, changed their name, or just disappeared, their members either returning to civilian life, or scattering to two or three new bands.

support the campaign's message to young people. Hawk followed up with Midnight Lullaby and on October 13, 1979 Kim first appeared on the Late Late Show singing the song. At the end of the year, Kim was interviewed by Morgan O'Sullivan on his RTE Radio One program, Late Date. Kim and the band started 1980 by being voted "Best New Pop Band" by readers of the Connaught Telegraph newspaper (the "not yet famous" two-time Eurovision Song Contest winner Johnny Logan was voted "Best New Vocalist" on the same night). The band was now playing dates from Glencolumbkille in the North to Castletownbere in the South, and every place in between. 1980 was the first year Kim and the band recorded their own songs and they released I Am A Woman, recorded in Greenfields Studios, near Tuam, Co. Galway with Tony Maher (of the Conquerors) on keyboards, Dick Lynott on drums, and Ger O'Donoghue engineering the sessions. The session also featured former Cotton Mill Boys member, Francie Lenehan on guitar and former Conqueror, Michael Keane on steel guitar. This was the first of many songs recorded at the then brand new 8 (soon to be 16) track facility. Kim and the Band left Hawk Records and formed Sunset Records to release the rest of their singles. At the beginning of 1981, the band underwent its first of several lineup changes, Joe Foley and Dick Lynott left the band and were replaced by James Blennerhassett of Sligo on bass and Seanie Ryan from Thurles on drums. James had played with Gerry previously in Sandy Duskey and Easy Listenin' and Seanie had previously played with Kenny Ryder's (ex-Tweed) Band. As 1981 progressed, the band continued to grow its reputation, released several more singles, and attracted the attention of Paddy O'Connell, a top entertainment promoter located in Limerick. The band signed with Paddy and joined the same management stable as Shaun O'Dowd and Dingaling, one of Ireland's leading pop bands of the era. Kim and the band hit their stride winning reader polls in the Sligo Journal and the Northwest Showbiz Awards in Donegal. As 1981 came to a close, the band's lineup underwent another shake-up. James left the band to become one of Ireland's top session musicians (he currently tours with the Conquerors), and Seanie was offered the drummer's spot with Tweed. The band found replacements in Omagh's Brian Mullin, who had relocated to Sligo and played bass, and Paul Hamilton, a Donegal drummer suggested by Ted Ponsonby of The Rascals. Unfortunately, Paul only stayed a few months

For such a small country, it is difficult to comprehend the sheer number of bands that the country produced. Almost as hard to imagine, is the number of dance halls that once dotted the countryside, many out in the "middle of nowhere." Pick up next months issue for another blast from the blast from the showband era...

and was replaced by year's end with Gerry's brother, Michael Gallagher on drums. This would be the band's lineup through the next two years. Also joining the band occasionally on stage was road manager, Colm Feeney, who played guitar and sang backup. Although 1983 would prove to be Kim's last year in Ireland, it ended up being one of her most successful. Touring continued and the band started playing more dates in Northern Ireland. The band recorded Somewhere Along the Way and Take It Or Leave It. Kim also appeared on their third SBB Ina Shui program performing Take It Or Leave It and Rock n' Roll Party. Kim was also a solo performer on RTE television's The Music Show which was aired after the band's final performance in Ireland. The band toured continuously until a week before leaving for the States. Their last performance was appropriately in the Baymount Entertainment Centre in Strandhill, Co. Sligo where they got to say thank you to the local fans who had been with them every step of the way. Gerry and the boys performed one last time as California at the Over 21 Club in the Sligo Park Hotel a few days later. In 2011, Kim returned to Sligo and released her first single in over 25 years, Girls' Night Out, which is available for free download on her website, www.kimnewport.com. She was interviewed on several radio stations including Pascal Mooney's Show on Ocean FM in Sligo, Highland Radio in Donegal and Cork's C103. Current plans are for Kim to play some dates in summer, 2012.

All editorial and photographs are kindly supplied by Gerry Gallagher from www.irish-shown-bands.com Over the years Gerry has built up what can only be describe as the definitive guide to the showband era. I would like to thank Gerry for allowing us to reproduce the articles and photos in Mature Living. If you would like to know more about your favourite band or who was number one in a particular year visit www.irish-showbands.com

Top singles - 1963/64

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Brendan Bowyer & Royal Showband - Kiss Me Quick (HMV) Dickie Rock & Miami - From the Candy Store On the Corner (Pye) Dickie Rock & Miami - There's Always Me - (Piccadilly) Brendan Bowyer & Royal Showband - Bless You (For Being An Angel) (HMV) Brendan Bowyer & Royal Showband - No More (HMV) Butch Moore & Capitol Showband - Down Came the Rain (Pye) Eileen Reid & Cadets - Fallen Star (Columbia)

8. Sean Fagan & Pacific - She Wears My Ring (Pye) 9. Dickie Rock & Miami - I'm Yours (Pye) 10. Joe Dolan & Drifters - The Answer To Everything (Pye) 11. Butch Moore & Capitol Showband - Foolin' Time (Pye) 12. Eileen Reid & Cadets - I Gave My Wedding Dress Away (Pye) 13. Pat McGeegan - Hawaiian Wedding Song (Decca) 14. Brendan O'Brien & Dixies - It's Only Makebelieve (pye) 15. Sean Fagan & Pacific - Distant Drums (Pye) 16. Brendan O'Brien & Dixies - I'm Counting On You (Pye) 17. Dominic Behan - Liverpool Lou (Piccadilly)

Page 25 Mature Living February 2012

Memories

The Bands of our Showband Era

Article and Photos courtesy of Gerry Gallagher www.irish-showbands.com

The Kim Newport Band (1978-1983)

Page 24 Mature Living February 2012

Top singles - 1963/64

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Page 25 Mature Living February 2012

Technology

Five Simple Mobile Phones

John's Phone Size 10.5x6x1.5cm Weight 90g Talk time 6 hours Standby 21 days

Verdict: Stylish with large colour display, charging cradle, SOS button and hearing aid compatibility. Pricey, but it’s 3G and has a 3.2MP camera. Clamshell design means you won’t make calls by mistake. Powertel Amplicom M6000 Size 12.9x5x1.2cm Weight 100g Talk time 2 hours Standby time 7 days

Verdict: Aimed at older people new to mobiles, John’s Phone has simple buttons and a pen and paper phonebook on the back. But no text messaging and the display on the top is far too tiny.

Verdict: Surprisingly light for a very loud, hearingaid compatible phone with cradle, big easy-toread buttons and large colour display. Best of all, its SOS alarm can be set to trigger if the owner falls.

Binatone Speakeasy 300 Size 11x5x1cm Weight 100g Talk time 90 minutes Standby time 4 days Verdict: A nice, basic mobile for someone seeking simplicity. It’s slim and light, with big easy-to-read buttons. It can even speak the numbers out loud when you press them. Cramped display, though. Doro Phoneeasy 615 Size 10.2x5.3x2.5cm Weight 115g Talk time 3 hours Standby time 22 days

Mini Simple Mobile Size 10.5x5x1.5cm Weight 80g Talk time 4 hours Standby time 7 days Verdict: Small and simple, with buttons that are easy to read but aren’t terribly big. Good value for a phone with an SOS function that rings and texts three numbers in an emergency.

Help! I’m almost out of battery IF your phone is in a low-signal area, it will use a lot of power trying to connect Push email on your phone will use a lot battery power, especially if you have 3G turned on, because it constantly checks the email server for changes (such as new emails). Similarly, Twitter and Facebook are always running because they tell you whenever you get a new message, friend request or wall post. YouTube and radiostreaming apps burn through power (and if you use them over your mobile network, you can kiss goodbye to your data limits). Using your phone as an MP3 player puts an extra strain on the battery. And if you’re listening to music while texting, emailing or playing a game, those black bars will quickly disappear. Having Wi-Fi enabled hurts battery life, especially when it’s not connected to a network. Like Wi-Fi, if Bluetooth is on, your phone will constantly try to search for a receiver. If your phone is in a low-signal area, it will use a lot of power trying to connect. If you’re on a train or in a rural area, switch it off until you know you’ll get a solid signal. Screen brightness is a major drain. If you’re running low on juice, turn the brightness down. Apps: the more you have open, the harder your phone will be working to keep them all running. Close down any apps you’re not using, and delete those you rarely use. On the iPhone, double click the home button, hold down one of the apps at the bottom of the screen and delete them. Don’t worry – they’ll still be in their usual positions when you open them again.

How ‘Find my iPhone’ can make you a better man ON the face of it, Find My iPhone is a clever way of tracking down your phone if you've lost it. If you and your partner, and maybe your children too, have iPhones but all share the same iTunes account – as is common – you may wish to stop reading about this extraordinary app now. It will change your lives; whether for the better or worse, is for you to decide. On the face of it, Find My iPhone is a clever way of tracking down your phone if you’ve lost it. Pull up the details on your computer and a proper sat-nav-style map will show exactly where in the world it is, to within about ten yards. You can also make it ring, for example if it’s hidden beneath the sofa cushion; and if it’s somewhere

irrecoverable, you can order it to delete all its information to protect your security. However, users have discovered it will also give finely mapped details for ALL devices on one account – so it will list not only your device but those of your family, too. And they’ll also be visible from the app version on your phone… so you can track down at any time, from anywhere, where all your nearest and dearest are. The icons can be refreshed so you can also see their progress, if they are on the move. This has enormous implications; no more ‘I’m on the way home, darling’ when she can clearly see you are within ten yards of the Dog and Duck. And, of course, the children will be appalled by the fact they can

Page 26 Mature Living February 2012

now be tracked not at school lunch but instead on the local High Street, or at Anouska’s house. The fact that the Weasley family in Harry Potter had similar technology on their kitchen wall will probably not assuage them. You, on the other hand, will be hugely reassured – unless they’ve left the phone in an ‘approved’ location to put you off the scent… The only way to hide is to go to settings and switch the app off. But then the list will

clearly state it’s been manually disabled – in which case, what’s your – or their – excuse?

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Motoring

How to reduce the perils of parking among themselves than pay a hefty penalty upon the renewal of their insurance policy each successive year. Here are some tips that will go a long way to preventing collisions in parking lots. • When entering a parking area, always plan your exit. Whenever possible, park close to an exit. When you take the last spot available against a curb, it guarantees that only one vehicle will be parked beside yours.

arking lots are the scene of more vehicle mishaps than any other location. Here are some tips that will go a long way to preventing collisions in parking lots. Without question, parking lots are the scene of more vehicle mishaps than any other location in our regulated traffic system. It is a simple fact that most of the parkinglot vehicle mishaps involving damage to one or more vehicles go unreported to insurance companies. Drivers would rather come to an agreement on damage payment

Without question, parking lots are the scene of more vehicle mishaps than any other location in our regulated traffic system.

• Most vehicles in Connacht, 80 per cent to be exact, have a lone occupant, the driver. For this reason, try to position your driver door beside the passenger door of the vehicle beside your car. Eighty per cent of the time, only the driver door will open. Damage to your vehicle doors can be avoided in this way. • Avoid backing out of a parking spot. Always back into a parking space wherever possible. Professional drivers park this way. This small adjustment will likely reduce your driving incident rate by as much as 30 per cent. It will be much easier to leave a parking space when you are facing the direction you wish to go. Take a drive-through space as often as possible. • If you must park in an angle space, try to choose the first space. This

Page 28 Mature Living February 2012

will give you the best visibility when leaving that very space. Angle spaces on the left side of the roadway do not give as much visibility when exiting as those on the right side of the street. These angle parking spaces usually require a reverse move to enter traffic. Anytime reverse gear is used, drivers should tap the horn twice. The sound of the horn will warn anyone within earshot that a vehicle is backing.

• The fewer turns made in a parking lot the better. When looking for a parking space, make as few directional changes as possible. Be predictable in every case. • Use the idle speed when looking for a space or leaving one. Since drivers have to mix with pedestrian traffic in parking lots, it is best to travel at a slow concerted speed equal to the average speed of a pedestrian walking. The choice of a parking space is often a twofold concern for drivers and their passengers’ safety and security. It is best to park in an open and clearly visible area to discourage the threat of theft, vandalism or assault. If the carpark is near capacity, look for a space close to high pedestrian traffic areas. People walking in the parking area often serve as an unofficial security service. Parking close to the store entrance is a good idea, but not always an option. When parking spaces are at a premium, take the ones close to the entrance and exit of the lot, plainly visible to passing pedestrian and vehicular traffic. Park your vehicle under a streetlight after dark. Security cameras are a deterrent against illegal activity as well.

2012 FLEET RANGE 2012 VW Touran 1.6TDI 7 Seater.................€25,500 2012 VW Sharan 2.0TDI 7 Seater................€39,500 2012 VW Tiguan TDI Passenger Extras..........€28,500 2012 VW Passat 1.6TDI Comfortline..............€27,000 2012 VW Jetta 1.6TDI..................................€23,500 2011 FLEET RANGE 2011 VW Touran 1.6TDI Comfortline............€24,500 2011 VW Scirroco 2.0TDI Extras...............€26,500 2011 VW Tiguan Passenger TD.....................€27,500 2011 VW Golf 1.6 TDI Comfortline Van.........€18,500 2011 VW Fox..............................................€10,500 2010 VW Touran 1.9TDI 7 Seater.................€19,500 BEETLE RANGE 2010 VW Beetle Cabriolet 1.4......................€19,500 2009 VW Beetle 1.4 High............................€15,000 2008 VW Beetle 1.4 High............................€14,000 PASSAT RANGE 2011 VW Passat 1.6TDI Highline...................€25,500 2011 VW Passat 1.6TDI Estate .....................€25,500 2011 VW Passat 1.6TDI................................€21,500 2011 VW Passat 1.4 TSI Comfortline.............€24,500 2011 VW Passat CC Sports Model 140BHP...€32,500 2011 VW Passat 1.6TDI Highline ..................€25,500 2011 VW Passat 1.6TDI Comfortline.............€23,500 2010 VW Passat 1.6TDI................................€19,500 2010 VW Passat 1.9TDI Comfortline..............€21,000 2009 VW Passat 1.9TDI ..............................€16,500 2009 VW Passat 2.0 TDI 140BHP H/Line......€19,500 2009 VW Passat 1.4TSI Comfortline A/T.......€16,500 2008 VW Passat 1.9TDI ..............................€13,500 2008 VW Passat 2.0TDI C/line 140BHP........€16,500 2007 VW Passat 2.0TDI Comfortline 140BHP..€9,500 JETTA RANGE 2011 VW Jetta 1.6TDI Automatic..................€23,500 2011 VW Jetta 1.6TDI..................................€21,000 2011 VW Jetta 1.4 TSI Comfortline................€19,500 2010 VW Jetta 1.4 TSI Petrol.......................€15,000 2010 VW Jetta 1.6 TDI.................................€17,500 2009 VW Jetta 1.6FSI Petrol........................€14,500 2009 VW Jetta 1.9TDI.................................€15,000 2008 VW Jetta 1.9TDI ................................€12,500 GOLF RANGE 2011 VW Golf 1.6TDI BM Cabriolet..............€25,500 2011 VW Golf 1.6TDI 5DR...........................€19,500 2011 VW Golf 1.2TSI 5DR ...........................€17,500 2011 VW Golf 1.6TDI Plus Model..................€21,500 2011 VW Golf 1.6TDI C/L Van......................€19,500 2010 VW Golf 1.4TSI Petrol.........................€16,500 2010 VW Golf 1.9TDI C/line Van.................€15,000 2010 VW Golf 1.6TDI 5D ............................€18,500 2009 VW Golf 2.0TDI..................................€16,500 2009 VW Golf 1.4 Comfortline 5Dr..............€14,500 2009 VW Golf TDI Estate Comfortline...........€18,000 2008 VW Golf 1.4GT Sports........................€10,500 2008 VW Golf 1.9TDI..................................€13,500 2008 VW Golf 1.9TDI GT Sports..................€13,500 2007 VW Golf 1.9TDI..................................€11,500 POLO RANGE 2011 VW Polo Petrol 5DR Choice..................€12,500 2011 VW Polo Diesel 5DR Choice.................€16,500 2010 VW Polo 1.2 5DR................................€10,500 2010 VW Polo 1.4 TDI Sport.........................€11,500 2010 VW Polo 1.6TDI..................................€12,500 2009 VW Polo Petrol 5DR............................€10,500 2008 VW Polo 1.2 5DR Choice......................€8,950 2007 VW Polo 1.2 5DR Choice.......................€7,500 2006 VW Polo 1.25DR..................................€6,500 4 X 4 PASSENGER RANGE 2009 VW Tiguan 2.0TDI 4x4 Passenger.......€24,500 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitaro 2.0DSL Pass.........€17,000 2008 Hyundia Touscan 2.0 DSL......................€9,500 2007 Kia Sorento Ex Passenger A/T Leather..€11,500

2007 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0DSL Pass........€13,000 2007 Mitsubishi Pajero Sports Passenger.......€16,500 2006 Mitsubishi Pajero SWB Passenger.........€12,500 2006 Touscan 2.0DSL....................................€9,500 ESTATE CARS 2011 VW Passat 1.6TDI Estate......................€25,500 2009 VW Golf 1.9TDI Comfortline (Extras)...€18,500 2007 VW Passat 2.0 Highline leather............€11,500 7 SEATER RANGE 2011 VW Touran 1.6TDI...............................€24,500 2010 VW Touran TDI 7 Seater....................€19,500 2009 VW Touran 1.9TDI...............................€17,500 2009 VW Touran 1.9TDI Automatic..............€19,500 2008 Ford Galaxy 1.8 DSL Ghia 7 Seater.....€19,500 AUDI RANGE 2010 A4 2.0TDI Extras.................................€27,500 2009 A4 2.0TDI .........................................€25,500 2008 A4 2.0TDI..........................................€21,500 2008 A6 2.0TDI Automatic...........................€17,500 2007 A4 1.9TDI ..........................................€13,500 2007 Audi TT Coupe....................................€16,500 2006 A4 2.0TDI..........................................€12,500 2006 A6 2.0TDI..........................................€13,500 VOLVO RANGE 2008 Volvo S40 1.6 DSL..............................€14,000 2006 Volvo S40 1.6DSL.................................€9,500 2004 Volvo S40 1.8 Petrol.............................€5,000 1999 Volvo V70 2.0 Estate............................€2,500 TOYOTA RANGE 2009 Toyota Avensis D4D............................€15,000 2009 Toyota Auris 1.4 5DR ( 20K)...............€12,500 2009 Toyota Yaris 1.0 5DR............................€9,500 2008 Toyota Corolla 1.4................................€8,000 2008 Toyota Corolla D4D DSL .....................€11,500 2008 Toyota Verso 1.6 7 Seater...................€12,500 2007 Toyota Hiace SWB................................€7,500 2007 Toyota Corolla......................................€7,500 2007 Toyota Avensis 1.6................................€7,500 FORD RANGE 2010 Ford 1.6 DSL Style Model 5DR.............€16,500 2009 Ford 1.6 DSL Zetec.............................€14,500 2008 Ford Mondeo DSL...............................€11,500 2008 Ford Galaxy TDI Ghia Model..............€19,500 2008 Ford Focus 1.4 5DR (34K)...................€10,500 2008 Ford Focus 2.0 TDI CC........................€13,500 2008 Ford Fiesta 1.25 ..................................€7,500 2008 Ford Focus 1.6DSL...............................€11,500 2008 Ford Focus 1.6 DSL Van........................€8,500 2007 Ford Focus 1.4 2X 5DR (25000mls).......€9,500 2007 Ford Focus 1.4 5DR ..............................€6,500 2007 Ford Fusion 1.4 5DR.............................€6,500 2006 Ford Galaxy DSl Zetec Model.............€12,500 2006 Ford Focus C Max DSl..........................€6,500 OPEL RANGE 2008 Opel Corsa 1.2 5DR.............................€6,500 2008 Opel Astra 1.4 5dr SXI Sport.................€8,500 2007 Opel Corsa Van DSL.............................€6,000 2007 Opel Corsa 1.4 5DR..............................€7,500 2006 Opel Astra 1.4 3DR Sx1........................€6,500 2006 Opel Vectra 1.6....................................€6,000 2006 Opel Zafira 1.6 7 Seater.......................€7,500 2006 Opel Vivaro 1.9 Dsl Van.......................€6,500 2006 Opel Astra 1.7 Dsl Van.........................€6,000 SEAT RANGE 2008 Seat Cordoba 1.4TDI Sal......................€8,500 2006 Seat Cordoba 1.4 Sal...........................€6,000 PEUGEOT RANGE 2008 Peugeot 308 1.6 Dsl 5Dr.......................€9,500 2007 Peugeot 407 Dsl Estate SW....................€8,500 2007 Peugeot 307 1.4 5Dr.............................€7,500 2007 Peugeot 407 Dsl Solaire Model.............€8,500 2006 Peugeot 407 2.0 DSL............................€6,000

HONDA RANGE 2007 Honda Civic 1.8 SE...............................€8,500 2005 Honda Civic 1.6...................................€5,000 2005 Honda HRV 1.6....................................€6,000 2004 Honda Accord 2.2 Dsl..........................€5,000 BMW RANGE 2008 BMW 118 DSl SE................................€15,000 2008 BMW 318 DSl Extras...........................€16,500 2007 BMW 520 DSl A/T Extras....................€16,500 2006 BMW 318 Dsl Extras............................€11,500 2005 BMW 520 Dsl a/T Extras....................€10,500 MITSUBISHI RANGE 2011 Mitsubishi Grandis 2.0TDI 140BHp 7 Seater ..................................................................€29,500 2011 Mitsubishi ASX 1.8 DSL Estate 5DR.......€23,500 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer 1.8 DSL.....................€19,950 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer 1.5 Petrol..................€17,500 2011 Mitsubishi Colt Cabrio 1.5....................€13,500 2011 Mitsubishi Colt 5DR Automatic..............€13,500 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer 1.5 Extras.................€12,500 2010 Mitsubishi L200 Crew Cab Canopy......€24,500 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0DSl Comm......€18,500 2010 Mitsubishi Colt 5DR Automatic.............€12,500 2009 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0DSL Comm.....€15,500 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer 1.5 Petrol.................€14,500 2008 L200 Crew Cab Extras........................€16,500 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer 1.5..........................€10,500 2008 Mitsubishi Colt 5DR...............................€7,500 2008 Mitsubishi Pajero 2.5 DSL Sports..........€13,500 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0DSL Pass........€13,500 2007 Mitsubishi Lancer 1.3.............................€7,500 2007 Mitsubishi Pajero 2.5 DSL Sports..........€13,000 2007 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 LWB...................€12,500 2007 Mitsubishi Pajero Dsl SWB...................€15,000 2006 Mitsubishi Colt 5DR...............................€6,000 2006 Mitsubishi Pajero 3.2 LWB...................€11,500 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero 2.5 SWB....................€9,000 AUTOMATIC RANGE 2011 VW Golf 1.6 DSL Comfortline..............€22,500 2011 VW Jetta 1.6TDI..................................€23,500 2011 Mitsubishi Colt 5DR A/T.......................€13,500 2010 VW Golf 1.6TDI Comfortline................€21,500 2010 Mitsubishi Colt 5DR A/T (5K)...............€12,500 2009 VW Golf 1.4 TSI H/L A/T....................€13,500 2009 VW Passat 1.4 TSI Comfortline.............€16,500 2008 VW Golf GTI 3DR 210BHP...................€13,500 2008 VW Jetta 1.9 TDI DSG.........................€15,000 2008 VW Transporter 2.5TDI SWB 100KL ....€19,500 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 DSL 7 Seat ........€21,500 2008 Audi A6 TDI DSG Leather....................€17,500 2007 Skoda Octavia TDI ...............................€7,500 2007 Kia Sorento ex Pasenger A/T leather....€11,500 2007 VW Passat 2.0 Highline DSG...............€12,500 2007 VW Passat Comfortline 2.0TDI DSG.....€12,500 2007 VW Jetta 1.6 DSG...............................€11,000 2007 VW Jetta Comfortline 1.9TDI DSG.......€12,000 2007 Kia Sorento 7 Seater ..........................€12,500 2007 Mitsubishi Pajero 2.5 SWB A/T............€13,500 2007 Nissan Navara 2.5 TDI A/T Extras.......€10,500 2007 Nissan Pathfinder DSL A/T....................€9,500 2007 BMW 520DSL Extras..........................€16,500 2006 Ford Focus 1.6......................................€7,500 MINI RANGE 2010 Mini Cooper 1.6 DSl Extras..................€18,500 2007 Mini 1 1.4 ME32 ( Extras )..................€10,500 2003 Mini 1 1.6 ...........................................€5,500

RENAULT RANGE 2011 Renault Clio 5Dr Extras.........................€11,000 2008 Renault Grand Scenic 1.5 Dsl 7 Seat....€10,500 2008 Renault Laguna 1.5 DSl.......................€11,500 2007 Renault Clio 1.2....................................€5,000 2006 Renault Megane 1.4 Sal........................€6,000 NISSAN RANGE 2008 Nissan Primera 1.6 SVE........................€6,500 2008 Nissan Micra 1.2 5DR...........................€6,500 2008 Nissan Navara 2.5T|D SE 5DR...........€13,500 2007 Nissan Navara 2.5 T/D SE 5DR A/T.....€11,500 2006 Nissan Almera 1.5................................€6,000 2006 Nissan Micra 1.5 DSL...........................€6,500 2006 Nissan Note 1.5...................................€6,500 2005 Nissan Xtrail DSL..................................€6,000 2005 Nissan Almera 1.5................................€4,500 2005 Nissan Kubistar Van..............................€4,000 2003 Nissan Almera 1.5................................€2,500 MAZDA RANGE 2007 Mazda 3 1.6DSL Touring.......................€7,500 2007 Mazda 3 1.4 H/B................................€6,500 2007 Mazda 6 2.0DSL Touring......................€9,000 2005 Mazda 3 1.4........................................€5,000 2001 Mazda Primo 1.3 H/B..........................€2,000 HYUNDAI RANGE 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 A/T 7 Seater......€21,500 2007 Hyundai Tuscon DSL Comm...................€9,000 2006 Hyundai Tuscon 2.0 DSL Passenger........€9,500 2005 Hyundai Accent 1.3..............................€4,000 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.0 Passenger...........€5,000 THIS WEEKS SPECIAL OFFERS 2009 VW Polo 1.2 3DR .................................€7,500 2008 VW Passat 1.9TDI H/L.........................€12,500 2008 VW Golf TDI 5DR DSl...........................€9,500 2008 Nissan Micra........................................€6,500 2008 Volvo S40 DSL....................................€12,500 2008 Renault Laguna 1.5DSL.........................€9,500 2007 VW Touran 1.9TDI 7 Seater...............€11,500 2007 VW Passat 2.0TDI 140BHP....................€9,000 2007 VW Polo Fox........................................€5,000 2007 Audi A4 TDI........................................€11,500 2007 Ford Focus 1.4 LX.................................€6,500 2007 Ford EOS 2.0 Leather...........................€9,500 2007 Renault Clio 1.2 5dr..............................€5,000 2006 VW Golf 1.4 Plus..................................€6,500 2006 Ford C Max Dsl....................................€6,500 2006 Nissan Micra Dsl..................................€6,000 2006 Nissan Almera 1.5................................€6,000 2005 Nissan Almera 1.5................................€4,500 2005 Citroen C5 Dsl......................................€4,500 2005 Peugeot 206........................................€5,000 2005 Renault Megane Dsl..............................€4,500 2005 Toyota Avensis 1.6................................€4,500 2005 Landrover 2.0 Petrol Freelander............€4,500 2005 Saab 9-5 2.2 Dsl...................................€5,000 2005 Peugeot 407 1.6 DSL............................€5,000 2005 Toyota Corolla D4D..............................€5,000 2005 Toyota Avensis 1.6 Petrol.......................€5,000 2005 Toyota Yaris 1.0 ..................................€4,500 2005 Ford Mondeo DSL................................€5,000 2005 Opel Vectra 1.6 ..................................€4,500 2005 Opel Vectra DSL...................................€6,000 2005 Peugeot 407 DSL.................................€4,500 2005 Renault Laguna 1.6..............................€3,000 2004 VW Touareg 2.5 TDI Passenger 4x4......€8,500 2004 Toyota Avensis 1.6................................€3,000

SUBARU RANGE 2005 Suburu Legacy 2.0...............................€5,000 2004 Suburu Forrester 2.0 A/T 4WD.............€5,500 2000 Suburu Forrester 2.0 4WD....................€3,000 SKODA RANGE 2007 Skoda Octavia 1.9TDI A/T..................€10,500 2007 Skoda Octavia 1.9 TDI..........................€9,500 2003 Skoda Octavia 1.4................................€3,000 2002 Skoda Octavia 1.4................................€2,500

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House and Home

Sustainable Kitchens: Getting the most out of our appliances and the environment back faster than you think by replacing old, out-dated appliances, such as that old, leaky Whirlpool dishwasher, with newer, more efficient models. I am slightly sceptical because 1) I am sceptical about everything and 2) I’m not sure I see how it pans out after you consider the environmental impact of manufacturing, transporting, and selling a new appliance and the impact associated with recycling something that is still functional. I don’t doubt for one second, though, that if one of your major appliances breaks down, you’re much better off in the long run purchasing a newer, more efficient model than trying to replace it with another antiquated one. Consider these compelling arguments:

ver the last few weeks, I’ve been trying to put together a budget that I can live by. As a result, I’ve made an effort to spend more time in my kitchen, preparing my own meals, instead of at restaurants, paying someone to prepare them for me. Growing up, my mum cooked most of our meals, but when I left home, somehow the value of a good, home cooked dinner got lost. Eating out has been a serious vice of mine for about the last 6 years. Now that I am trying to save more money and lose weight, it’s time to rediscover the value of my kitchen. Every room in your home is bursting with potential to save you money and lower your dependence on finite resources and your kitchen is no exception. Technology has evolved quite a bit since your mother made you scones and today we’ll take a look at the role appliances play in the efficiency of how you and I sustain ourselves. Shiny, new, efficient appliances Assuming you actually use it, your kitchen likely uses the most resources of any room in your house. The appliances you use are a huge part of that. I have always been of the mindset that if it still works, you should still use it. However, there has been a lot of hype lately over the advancement in technology over the last few decades. It’s regularly reported that you might pay yourself

Refrigerator: According to the Dept. of Energy the fridge accounts for, on average, 14% of a home’s overall electricity usage. This is your single best opportunity to improve your carbon footprint and lower your electricity bill, so make the most of it and get the most efficient model you can afford. Cooker: Whether you decide to go with a gas or electric cooker is really up to you and what your home is already equipped for. One will not save you that much money over the other. A few things to consider though are that gas cookers emit more toxins into your kitchen, requiring more exhausting but electric stoves take longer to heat up and cool down compared to the superior temperature control afforded by a gas stove. If you’re replacing an old range, at least consider upgrading to one with a convection oven as they are currently the most efficient on the market. Dishwasher: Today’s new models use up to 75% less water than their counterparts from a decade ago. When you consider that 60% of the energy used by these handy appliances goes to heating water, you can see how the savings can add up. If you don’t do a lot of dishes, make sure you don’t pick a dishwasher that is too large for your needs. You’ll either waste water running loads that aren’t full or run out of dishes trying to fill it up.

Page 30 Mature Living February 2012

Microwave: New or old won’t make that much of a difference. Just know that using one at all is, oftentimes, much less energy intensive than cooking in a conventional oven. Microwaves are better suited for smaller jobs so you’ll still need your oven for those larger meals, but technology is continuing to improve and the newer models are getting better at cooking larger items without destroying the flavor. I can’t be the only one that thinks some things just don’t taste good coming from the microwave? No matter what items you decide you need to improve the efficiency of your kitchen, you’ll get the most eco bang-for-your buck out of those that are approved by Energy ratings. You’ll find that it’s almost always more frugal to pay a bit more up front for a more efficient appliance. I also think it’s important to mention that it’s possible to attain these shiny, efficient appliances gently used. Just like a new car loses value after you drive it off the lot, so does a new refrigerator or dishwasher when you carry it out of the store. It’s unfortunate that not everyone thinks the way you and I do, keeping their new items until they’re worn out, but as long as those folks exist, it is practically our responsibility to

make the best of it by taking these things off their hands (and educating them about their wasteful ways – without being preachy of course). But I don’t need any new appliances! No worries, I hear you. Maybe you don’t have a need for a new appliance right now. Maybe you can’t afford one yet. I often dream of someday filling my kitchen with the most efficient modern appliances. Until that day comes, though, I will continue to do my part by using the appliances that I have in the most efficient ways I can. Here are some of the tricks I’ve learned and can pass along: Refrigerator: Make sure your temperatures are set right. The refrigerator should be set between 35 & 38 degrees F and the freezer should be set around 0 degrees F - any less and you’re wasting energy keeping things too cold. And who really likes to work so hard to eat their ice cream anyway? Keep the unit away from other appliances that create heat (like an oven or dishwasher), don’t place it in direct sunlight, and keep the back of the unit a few inches off of the wall to allow the coils to breathe. Make sure your door seals tightly

House and Home washer, you’d save more water and money just finishing the job by hand.

when you close it and, like your mother always told you, don’t leave it open! Decide what you want before opening it. Hint: Keep your grocery list on the front of your refrigerator to help you remember what’s in there. Range: Make sure you’re using the right size pots on your stove top. A tiny pot on a big burner is a waste of energy. Always thaw your foods in the refrigerator or at room temperature before baking. Sometimes it’s hard to plan ahead, but as we all know, you’ll save yourself money and resources in the long run if you do.Turn the oven off a few minutes before your food is done and let the dissipating heat finish it off. This is a good idea in the summer when you want your oven on as little as possible, but in the winter I prefer to turn it off when the food is done and leave the door open, allowing the escaping heat to warm the house, relieving my furnace a bit. Dishwasher: Resist that urge to run the dishwasher when it isn’t full. It’s working at maximum efficiency when it is. If you find yourself doing this often, consider washing single items you need regularly by hand or getting a back-up. Don’t wash a half-load of dishes just to clean one item that you need. Skip all the fancy wash cycle options like pre-washing and all that nonsense. If you effectively scrape your dishes (without water!) before loading them, you shouldn’t need those extra steps. And by all means, turn off the heated dry option! When the machine is done, crack the door to allow the dishes to air dry. Or, open it all the way and pull the trays out to get the job done faster. Don’t pre-rinse your dishes unless absolutely necessary. As I said above, scrape them the best you can without water before putting them in the machine. If you spend much time rinsing your dishes before putting them in the

Microwave There aren’t many ways to improve your microwave’s efficiency, but if you don’t have one, you might consider buying one for all the reasons mentioned above. You might even consider picking up a toaster oven. Sure, there’s an upfront cost, but you’ll save yourself: • time cooking things that don’t need to be put in the oven • energy by cooking things faster • money by saving on the two points above When it comes to greening your kitchen, you’ll make your biggest gains with the appliances that you use whether they’re new or old. Keep in mind that if you do opt to buy something new, you should still participate in all the efficiency tips explained in the second half of this article. They’re just as applicable. While new technology is designed to make life simpler, I still strongly believe it is our duty to continue to find better ways to use what is available to us. It is through this process that we persist in getting the most of the things we might otherwise take for granted. 10 ways to make your refrigerator use less energy Refrigerators are less energy efficient than most people realize. Their energy efficiency ratings are done under ideal conditions – get a few things wrong and you might end up spending a lot more electricity on cooling your food than necessary. If you follow the advice in the list below, though, you can be safe in the knowledge that your fridge is a lean, green cooling machine! • Don’t leave the door open • The longer the door stays open, the more hot air gets inside – making the refrigerator spend energy cooling it down. • Keep food away from the back wall • If food or anything else touches the back wall inside the refrigerator, the cooling cycle will go haywire and waste energy. Prolonged contact with the back wall will also damage your veggies. • Keep warm leftovers out • Putting warm food inside your refrigerator will, not surprisingly, make it work harder. It also increases the chances of unpleasant bacteria growth in

the food, so it’s better to cool the food to room temperature first. • Thaw frozen food in the fridge - Are any of tomorrow’s dinner ingredients in the freezer? Put them in the fridge today, and let them thaw slowly. As an added bonus, slowly thawed food will taste better. • Dust or vacuum the cooling coils - The coils on the back of the refrigerator are what gets rid of heat from its interior. If they get too dusty, they’ll be less efficient at conducting heat, making the refrigerator work harder. The same applies to your freezer. Make sure you don’t damage or bend the coils while you dust them; it’ll make them less efficient. • Defrost the freezing compartment - Built-up frost and ice will reduce energy efficiency significantly. The same goes for your freezer; defrost it when frost build-up is getting noticeable. • Use an energy efficient light bulb - The light bulbs in refrigerators are normally incandescent bulbs that will produce more heat than light – kind of counterproductive in a cooling appliance. LED bulbs are especially suitable in a refrigerator. • Place it next to an outside wall - Walls that are exposed to the elements are generally cooler than walls that are not – unless you live in a very warm climate, of course, in which case it might be better to place the refrigerator as far from outside walls as possible. • Avoid stoves and hot water heaters - Try to place your refrigerator away from anything that will radiate heat. • Give it some air - Make a healthy flow of air around the appliance possible; this helps transport heat away. This is especially important for the coils on the back – the air they heat up has to be replaced with cooler air, or your poor fridge will be working hard and wasting energy constantly.

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Feature with Niamh Flynn

Hypnosis: Science and Application HYPNOSIS may be a misunderstood science, but it has enormous capacity to improve our lives. In a series of articles in Mature Living Niamh Flynn of Bodywatch, who runs courses leading to recognised Qualifications in hypnosis, will expose some of the myths and show how techniques can be applied positively in dealing with lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s problems. It might also prompt some readers to take on a course and learn to practice the art themselves. with creativity and with learning and facilitates the ability to alter how we think about something.

Niamh Flynn

F you could close your eyes quietly only to open them again thirty minutes later and find yourself being more positive, more focused and more relaxed would you be tempted to find out more? If, like most people, the concept of greater happiness and instant improvement in any area of life is an attractive abstraction, keep reading. Our minds have the capacity for instant and rapid change and science is beginning to explain why. The mind emits a gamut of spontaneous electrical activity at all times which can be measured by an Electro Encephalogram (EEG). This electrical activity includes Delta Waves which register between 0.5hz and 4hz to Gamma Waves which range between approximately 30hz and 100+hz. When there is a predominance of a particular range of activity, referred to as theta, the brain wave which oscillates between approximately 4 and 7 cycles per second (4hz-7hz,) the mind enters into a state of greater suggestibility. This state is commonly associated

One means of increasing theta waves and influencing the way we think is hypnosis. Despite the associations with dangling stopwatches and Svengali type suggestions, hypnosis is actually a great tool for change. It is safe and effective when used correctly and can help with a multitude of common complaints. In a practical situation, this is how it works: a skilled hypnotherapist will accrue the information necessary to formulate a plan of action which you have in mind. They will then create suggestions based around your goals and, after guiding you into a hypnotic state, incorporate those suggestions to alter your thinking and in turn encourage the desired behaviour. So whether you wish to work on your game of golf, stop eating sweet foods, become more relaxed in your interactions with others, build confidence in any area of your life or manage pain, hypnosis can help. Reenforcement of suggestions is often useful and may or may not be necessary. Academic research will testify to the fact that hypnosis works and not only does it work but in many cases is far more effective than more commonly prescribed procedures and interventions. The unfortunate tags attached to hypnosis are undeserved. Sensationalism and a tendency to reject or fear what we do not understand has extended to this valid and reliable tool at great expense. Hypnosis is, initially, certainly a more time consuming indulgence than taking a tablet but hypnosis has no adverse side effects and instead, endows a serious range of fortuitous benefits. Hypnosis is not a panacea nor is it always effective. However, with correct application and the skill of an experienced hypnotherapist rapid and instant change is a very concrete reality within the grasp of most individuals. Science is finally catching up with the ubiquitous anecdotes from experiential work

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which has enabled millions of people around the world to stop smoking in an hour, reduce chronic and acute pain in a matter of minutes or months and athletes to accelerate the achievement of their sporting goals in mere minutes.

Despite the associations with dangling stop-watches and Svengali type suggestions, hypnosis is actually a great tool for change

Hypnosis can be applied effectively with approximately ninety per cent of the population and, of these, ten per cent are likely to be highly suggestible. This means that the latter will typically exhibit a higher percentage of theta waves when in a hypnotic trance and as they respond so well to hypnosis they may require fewer sessions. Over the next few months in each issue of Mature Living Magazine we will examine how hypnosis can help your game of golf, we will blow away the myths surrounding hypnosis, provide concrete proof of studies where hypnosis has successfully assisted chronic pain patients in reducing, and in some instances eliminating their medication levels and illustrate how hypnosis can help with weight loss. Niamh Flynn is currently pursuing a PhD in hypnosis for Chronic Pain at NUI, Galway. She is also the director of Bodywatch Ltd. a provider of NGH, Internationally Recognised Hypnosis Certification Training programmes. You can contact her at www.bodywatch.ie

“Entertainment and fun - all that our Traditional Christmas Programme Offers, but in June!” Prize is for 2 Adults sharing and includes: • 2 nights accommodation with full Irish breakfast each morning • Festive Welcome Reception • Fun & Games with Santa, his Elves and Petie the Panda • Live Entertainment • Reindeer Hunt • Plus complimentary use of award-winning leisure facilities To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize, simply enter the question below and send your answer, along with your name, address and telephone number into us at: Christmas in June, Mature Living Magazine, Cleveragh Road, Sligo or email it into us at competitions@matureliving.ie

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Food and Drink

Chia: The Ancient Super Seed Chia, or ‘salvia hispanica’, has huge nutritional value as well as medicinal properties. It has been used as a staple food since the time of the Aztecs and revered for its high energy content. As the good weather brings salad season, we take a look at the limitless health benefits of this innocuous little seed.

t was said that Aztec warriors survived on Chia seeds during their warfare, and warriors from the south-western United States could go on a twenty four-hour march having eaten just one teaspoon of chia. The best way of understanding the properties of chia is to simply leave a teaspoon of the seed in a glass of water, come back to it, and the glass will be filled with what looks like gelatin. The reaction is due to the soluble fibres contained within the seeds, and researchers believe the very same thing happens in one’s stomach. This means that the gelatinous fibres, or mucilages, form a kind of barrier between ingested carbohydrates and digestive enzymes, so the carbohydrate is broken down much more slowly. The chia seed is the ultimate in slowrelease energy. This slow breakdown of carbohydrates is obviously good news for you if you suffer from diabetes, as prolonging the conversion to sugar helps to stabilise metabolic changes, thus lowering the surges of ‘ sugar highs and lows’ which often catch diabetes sufferers out. Chia seeds are also able to absorb twelve times their weight in water, meaning that when ingested the seed can help prolong hydration. The electrolytes present in fluids support

body cells, so the more stable their hydration, the better. This is worth bearing in mind as we enter the warmer months of the year. The seeds also contain hydrophilic colloids, which are contained in most raw foods, and benefit the body in many ways. However, when cooked, these

Chia seeds are also able to absorb twelve times their weight in water, meaning that when ingested the seed can help prolong hydration.

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foods lose their colloidal integrity. Uncooked foods contain enough hydrophilic colloid to keep gastric mucosa in the correct condition, so the uncooked chia seeds provide another benefit to the body’s digestion. Chia seeds also build muscle tissue so are a great snack in the gym or before any workout. The seeds may also be used to aid the digestion of anybody who suffers with unbalanced gastric mucosa; special diets exist to help ease this condition, and chia seeds can be eaten to complement it and further help digestion. Sufferers are usually prohibited from eating raw vegetables, green salads and fruits because their fibrous and sometimes acidic makeup is difficult to digest, but with the introduction of chai into the diet, these may be eaten in small quantities. Cactus juice, beetroot juice and agar (edible seaweed) also contain these digestion-easing properties, but these may be too expensive and have undesirable side-effects. Chia seeds are therefore the better option. They also have a very high oil content and are the richest vegetable source of Omega-3 fatty acid. These fatty acids are what the body needs to emulsify and absorb soluble vitamins A, D, E and K. Unsaturated fatty acids contained in these seeds are vital for organ

respiration, and also aid the transportation of oxygen around the blood stream to cells, organs and tissues. Chia is also rich in Calcium, containing the mineral Boron, which utilises the absorption of Calcium into the body. Additional benefits for eating Chia are as follows: It is thought to aid healing It helps clear up impurities, such as eye-related infections It is very rich so you do not need to ingest much if you’re not a fan of seeds You don’t need to just munch on the seeds as they are to feel the benefits – Chia can be used in many recipes, such as banana bread, soups, puddings, salads, dressings, French toast and stir fries. Treat it as you would any other seed in terms of recipes, and just remember, it’s phenomenally good for you.

Due to the massive uptake on the last issue of Mature Living Magazine, not everyone could be guaranteed a free copy in their local outlet. However we now offer a subscription service for just €28 per year.

Tel: 087-1214000 049 8548454 091 797272

ature Living is full to the brim with information on events, finance, travel, pets, food and drink, health, hobbies and much much more! For just €28 (to cover postage and admin costs) you can have Mature Living delivered to your door. Mature Living is published once per month and a subscription covers 12 months. Complete the form below. You can pay by cheque or Postal Order made payable to IBS Publications I Would llike to subscribe to Mature Living Magazine for 12 issues. Name................................Telephone............................. Address....................................................................... ................................................................................ Alternatively, you can pay via telephone using your credit or debit card. Simply call us on 071-9154538 with your details. Cut out this form and send it to us at: Subscriptions, Mature Living Magazine, Cleveragh Road, Sligo.

Fashion Frames and Choosing the Right Varilux Lens

any people think that if you want to look your best in your spectacles, it’s merely a matter of choosing the right frame. While there’s no doubt that an attractive frame, that also suits your face shape, is a vitally important part of the process of selecting your finished spectacles, the lenses you choose have a very important part to play too. For example, there’s not much point in someone in their late forties, who wants to wear the latest, youthful frame, ruining the effect with bifocal lenses. It really is worth spending the little extra that it costs to upgrade to Varilux varifocals. They are easy to get used to and look so much more attractive. Varilux isn’t just a single design of varifocal, there’s several Varilux lenses, each designed for different frames and needs. Small frames are very fashionable but they don’t give much room at the bottom of the lens for the reading area. That’s where Varilux Short comes in, because it has been designed for just one purpose: to give the best possible vision for wearers of small and shallow frames. It’s also well worth investing in Crizal lenses. Uncoated lenses show large reflections that can mask your eyes. So much of our communication

HILL STREET, BALLINA, CO. MAYO TELEPHONE: 096 72100 Exclusive to O’Reilly Hughes Opticians is with our eyes and this can become lost behind heavy reflections. Appearance-wise, the ideal lens is one that those around you notice least, and with Crizal lenses, they can actually seem to disappear. But you’ll notice the difference too. They improve visual contrast to give clearer vision and the absence of reflections makes everything from working in an office to driving at night a lot less tiring for your eyes. So, when you’re thinking about your next pair of spectacles, talk to your optometrist who can help you choose the lenses that complement the attractive frame you select. - Helen O'Reilly FAOI LVA Optometrist, Contact Lens Fitter and Low Vision Specialist

All Varilux Varifocal Lenses on presentation of this voucher Terms and conditions apply, offer valid until 31st March 2012.

Feature Article Women

Just 50!

A survey has found that eight out of ten women over 50 think men no longer notice them. The findings fly in the face of claims that turning 50 is 'quintastic', as represented by glamorous golden girls such as Michelle Pfeiffer and Kim Cattrall

recent survey has found that eight out of ten women over the age of 50 think members of the opposite sex no longer notice them. So while The Beatles famously lamented becoming over the hill ‘When I’m 64’, women in 2011 will instead be wondering: ‘Will you still need me, will you still feed me, when I’m... 50?’ As if that’s not bad enough, seven out of ten women also feel overlooked by the fashion industry. On top of apparently being doomed to an existence as an unstylish frump, the survey found that three-quarters of women in their sixth decade believe they have lost their individual identity by being labelled as a ‘mum’. The findings of the Invisible Women study fly in the face of claims that turning 50 is ‘quintastic’, as represented by glamorous golden girls such as Michelle Pfeiffer and Sex And The City star Kim Cattrall. Actress Lynda Bellingham, 62, best known for the Oxo television adverts, said: ‘Reaching 50 really does change the way you’re regarded by society. ‘You suddenly find yourself being

passed over by everyone – employers, men and certainly fashion designers.’ Miss Bellingham, who married third husband Michael Pattemore in 2008

three-quarters of women in their sixth decade believe they have lost their individual identity by being labelled as a ‘mum’.

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The age a woman becomes 'invisible' to the opposite sex?

Growing problem: Many over-50s describe themselves as 'invisible' to the opposite sex and is a presenter on ITV’s Loose Women, added: ‘Reaching my 50s was an unsettling time. Work-wise parts were harder to come by and I felt that my romantic life was over. ‘Even when I met the man who is now my husband, I assumed he wouldn’t fancy me. ‘Luckily we bucked the trend and we’re a very happy couple but there is this assumption that large parts of your life are finished and you’ve become somehow invisible. ‘The fashion industry, especially, seems to have overlooked us completely and it’s time they woke up to the fact that 50-plus women still want to look and feel good.’ More than half of the over-50s surveyed also felt the representation of older women in adverts was unrealistic and was often portrayed by much younger models. Some 1,246 UK women, of which 47 per cent were over 50, were surveyed for the study by online retailer isme.com. The findings echo the views of feminist Germaine Greer in her book, The Change, that sexual attractiveness, rather than experience or brainpower, remains the major key that opens the door to

success. But not everyone agrees. Emma Soames, of Saga Magazine, recently said: ‘We’re welcoming an era in which 50 is the new 34. ‘This new 2010 generation can look forward to another 30 years of active life, while the generation born a hundred years ago were within a few years of the end of theirs at 50. They don’t feel their age.’ And Hollywood actress Miss Pfeiffer, 52, has said of turning 50: ‘It’s a chance to take stock and count your blessings. Honestly, I don’t feel older – and it’s better than the alternative!’

'Reaching 50 really does change the way you're regarded by society'

Hearing Health

Speaking Clearly ... and Slowly! background noise, such as radio or television, when speaking with someone who is hard of hearing. • If you’re dining out, try to pick a quieter restaurant. Loud patrons, clanging dishes and distracting background music are the “perfect storm” for those who are hard of hearing. By following these tips, and being aware of every guest’s individual needs, you can ensure social situations like family dinners and get-togethers are enjoyable for everyone involved.

N our last issue we highlighted the importance of hearing health and the greater quality of life to be enjoyed with improvement in hearing. We continue this month with some solid advice on the subject and some facts you may not be fully aware of. We all enjoy getting together with

those suffering from hearing loss often dread the stress of noisy family dinners, crowded restaurants and parties full of unheard conversations.

family and friends. Normally, such occasions should be relaxing and enjoyable; however, those suffering from hearing loss often dread the stress of noisy family dinners, crowded restaurants and parties full of unheard conversations. Everyone knows the common symptoms of hearing loss; asking people to repeat themselves, the impression that everyone is mumbling, listening to the television at very high volumes and having difficulty understanding what is being s aid, especially in background noise. But did you know hearing loss can also cause stress, frustration and isolation? It is one of the only physical disabilities that society seems to have no patience for. However, we can all help a little... and here are a few tips to help those dealing with hearing loss enjoy social gatherings: • Don’t speak too quickly, and remember to focus on clarity rather than volume (never shout). • When conversing look directly at the person and try not to be more than three feet away. • Be sure to limit distracting

GETTING YOUR HEARING CHECKED Did you know that most people over the age of 55 have never had their hearing checked? This is quite an alarming statistic, when you take into account that over 10% of the population suffer from some degree of hearing loss. Hearing aid users often report not just better sound quality, but improvement in their relationships and social skills since taking steps to address their hearing needs. HIDDEN HEARING, with a head office address at 3030 Lake Drive, Citywest Business Campus, Dublin 24 (Tel. 01-5173900) can offer best advice and solutions to your hearing problems. Look out for their advertisement in the March issue of Mature Living.

How second hand smoke can damage your hearing EVERYBODY knows that secondhand smoke is bad for your lungs – but did you know it can also damage your hearing? A recent study published in the journal “Tobacco Control” reveals that exposure to second hand smoke puts you at a significantly increased risk of hearing loss. Tobacco smoke can disrupt the blood flow in the small vessels of the ear, starving the organ of oxygen and leading to a build-up of damaging toxic waste? This damage is detectable as it differs from that caused by prolonger noise exposure or normal wear and tear due to aging. The study was conducted by researchers from the University of Miami, Florida. They looked at the hearing test results of 3,307 non-smoking volunteers – some who used to be smokers and some who had never smoked. Prior to testing, the researchers checked volunteers’ blood for cotinine, a by-product of nicotine that is produced when a person comes in contact with smoke. The hearing tests revealed that those exposed to secondhand smoke (who had levels of cotinine in their bodies), were much more likely to have poorer hearing. Overall, the study concluded that exposure to second hand smoke increased a person’s risk of hearing loss across low, medium and high sound frequencies by about a third. So next time you light up, think about how that cigarette will affect not only your lungs, but your ears as well!

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Feature Article Employment

5 weapons for battling burnout 2. Look at your schedule The way you manage your time also can affect your ability to rebound from job exhaustion. If you are overbooked or expending too much energy on non-critical initiatives, you may be creating additional pressure at work. Try keeping a simple record of your activities for a week and divide the findings into categories such as "researching," "reviewing proposals" and "responding to e-mails." Are you devoting adequate time to the highest priorities?

any workers have been tackling large workloads for months and slowly but surely losing their "get-up-and-go." If routine assignments have taken on mammoth proportions, you may be suffering from burnout. Long work hours and seemingly relentless deadlines can lead to low morale and reduced productivity -- not to mention decreased job satisfaction. Following are additional warning signs that you may be "running on empty": · You have trouble getting out of bed when you have to go to work. · You frequently arrive to work late. · You feel bad about your performance. · You feel withdrawn. · You watch the clock excessively. · Work stress spills over into other areas of your life. · You get into frequent disagreements with your manager or co-workers when you didn't in the past. · You feel you aren't making progress, despite your best efforts. If these symptoms sound familiar, it may be time to make some changes. Here are some strategies to help you renew your enthusiasm and get your career back on track: 1. Evaluate your role If your company has experienced layoffs or has a hiring freeze in place, you might be shouldering

more responsibility than in the past. Although taking on new assignments can be a good career move, doing so can lead to burnout if the scope of your responsibility has expanded beyond what you can reasonably manage. If you're feeling overwhelmed, don't try to "tough it out." Instead, meet with your supervisor and be honest about your situation. Work with him or her to reprioritize projects or look for ways to delegate some of your work.

If you are overbooked or expending too much energy on non-critical initiatives, you may be creating additional pressure at work

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3. Identify your stressors Understanding the factors that contributed to your decline in motivation can help you move in a more positive direction. Think about what has contributed to your burnout: Is it the feeling that projects are out of your control? Have your own actions exacerbated the problem? For example, you may have set an overly ambitious timeline for completing an assignment, creating unnecessary stress and obstacles to its success. Even small changes to your routine, such as seeking assistance from your manager when you have too many projects on your plate, can help brighten your outlook. 4. Ask for help A common symptom of burnout is a feeling of isolation. You may think you're the only one who can review a particular document because you understand the project best, but someone else might bring in a fresh perspective -- not to mention relieve some of the burden. It's OK to let others know that you're facing difficulties and request their assistance. Keep in mind that you won't be perceived as a complainer if you objectively outline the specific issues you're trying to address and ask for guidance. 5. Take a break Make sure to allow time to periodically recharge. Even if you're working long hours, you can counteract stress and maximize your performance on the job by taking five or 10-minute breaks throughout the day. Stand up and stretch or go for a short walk. Instead of eating lunch at your desk, try the break room or outside courtyard. When you're able, try to use your vacation

days, as well. Getting away from the office, even for a day or two, can give you a fresh perspective on your situation and allow you to return with new focus and energy. A certain amount of stress is inherent in any job, but when the pressure gets out of hand, it's important to act quickly. Burnout can negatively affect not only your overall job performance but also your personal life. By taking measures to reduce the amount of stress you're facing, you can regain your motivation.

Employment

CPA Ireland’s Guide to Successful Interviews • A smart business suit, with a clean ironed shirt or blouse and dark shoes is an ideal interview outfit. It is important to dress formally for every interview, whether it is company policy or not. • Turn off your phone before the interview, or better still leave it in the car, advises Dermot from Morgan McKinley. All of these steps before an interview will boost your confidence and make you more comfortable answering questions on the day.

his is the third in a series of articles by CPA Ireland aimed at providing you with a comprehensive guide to improving your job prospects, with advice on your CV, cover letters, networking skills and much more. Here, we continue with one of the more difficult aspects of job hunting: the interview.

confidence and self-esteem. However, if you are revised and ready, whether you get the job or not, it can prove to be a very educational experience. Here are our top tips on preparing for interview success:

Preparing for an Interview The research for an interview is the key to a successful one. If you turn up unorganised and ill-informed, it can be detrimental to your

Research the company beforehand, including What the company does and how it runs • The company’s financial state, are they downsizing or expanding • Major competitors • Skills they are looking for, such as education or previous experience • What you can offer them According to a Robert Half Finance and Recruitment survey, 44pc of executives said the most common interview pitfall for candidates is insufficient company research.

If you turn up unorganised and ill-informed, it can be detrimental to your confidence and self-esteem.

• Have your route planned to the interview to ensure you’re on time.

• Have facts and figures about your previous employers. • Dermot O’Sullivan from Morgan McKinley recommends some research on your own background as well. ‘It’s very important to do a selfassessment on yourself: that is your skills, talents, strengths, weaknesses, achievements, motivations and work values. Keep these all on file as they can be easily forgotten.

• Never badmouth a current or past employer and instead, just list your own accomplishments within their company. Potential employers will see any bad words about a past employer as a red flag to hiring someone. • Don’t lie or try to hide any holes in your resume. They will easily be detected so just have a good explanation and point out what you learned from the experience.

During the Interview Once you begin the interview, it’s important to focus throughout on your body language, manners and most importantly, your answers. Follow these tips for interview success.

• Don’t take credit for things you didn’t do or pretend you had more responsibility or authority than you actually did: these facts are easily discovered when your references are checked.

• Body language is vital to your first impression, with a firm handshake, a smile and strong eye contact making for a good start. Any slouching or fidgeting will reveal nerves and a lack of confidence. • Be interested and enthusiastic in finding out about the job. The interview is your main opportunity to show off your personality so be polite and friendly, but remain professional at all times. Refrain from talking too much: keep your answers to the point as endless commentary will only display a lack of self confidence. • Many interviews will start with ‘Tell me a bit about yourself.’ This is a great opportunity to tell the employer about your previous education and experience to date relevant to the job in question and finish with why you are looking for this particular position today. • When asked about your strengths and weaknesses, list out four to five strengths and one or two weaknesses. Avoid listing any personal traits and stick to professional qualities. Make sure you can prove your strengths with examples and turn any negative weaknesses into positives. • If there are any areas you are

asked about that you do not have any experience with, remain calm and confident and list some alternative experience you have instead that you feel is equivalent.

• Leave negotiations on salary until the interviewer brings it up and give yourself a day to make a response. • Keep any criticism about the potential employer’s strategy, product line or operations constructive and positive. After the Interview • Always ask questions at the end of the interview, as it shows you are considering the company as much as they are considering you. Conversing at the end could also boost your rapport with the interviewer, increasing your chances. • Manners are invaluable in interviews, so thank the interviewer for seeing you and shake their hand again. A follow-up email is optional but will show your interest and enthusiasm for the position. CPA Ireland is one of the main Irish accountancy bodies, with more than 5,000 members and students in the island of Ireland. The CPA title is the most commonly used designation internationally for professional accountants and the Institute’s qualification enjoys worldwide recognition. Its current membership operates in public practice, industry, financial services and the public sector and CPAs work in over 32 countries around the world.

Page 39 Mature Living February 2012

Health

Is aging to blame for weight gain?

Is your aging metabolism to blame for "middle age spread"? Mature Living looks at the real cause of weight gain -- and what you can do about it.

las, age isn’t the only thing that increases with each birthday. Call it “middle age spread” or “menopot”, but you may have noticed the number on the scale creeping up over the years. The weight gain — especially where we gain it — can negatively impact our health.

our metabolism — the process by which we break down fuel into the energy our body uses — slows down as we get older.

You’ve likely heard the aging process is partly to blame. Rather, that our metabolism — the process by which we break down fuel into the energy our body uses — slows down as we get older. If that’s the case, is there anything we can do about it? Does our metabolism slow down — or is it something else? There are many reasons people gain weight, and the interconnected factors can be complex. However, when it comes to our metabolism experts say it does slow by about 2-5 per cent every decade after we turn 30. It’s easy to imagine someone gradually turning down the dial on a machine. When the machine isn’t doing its job as effectively, there are going to be more leftovers — in this case, calories that get stored as fat. Nothing we can do about that, right? Wrong, say experts. It’s true our cells’ mitochondria (the part that supplies the energy) can slow a little as we age, but the real culprit is something else. Our metabolism is linked to the amount of muscle we have. It’s a complex process, but the more lean muscle mass we have, the more calories we’ll burn. Unfortunately, muscle mass is something that decreases as we age. In fact, experts estimate we lose

Page 40 Mature Living February 2012

about half of our muscle mass between ages 20 and 90. That’s a pretty big time span, but a lot of the loss occurs between the ages of 50 and 70. Less muscle mass means we need fewer calories. The problem is most people don’t decrease their calorie consumption accordingly — and you can guess where the extra ends up. To avoid weight gain, we have to balance the calories we consume with the calories we burn during the day, so a loss of muscle mass can tip the scales against us. We might not notice a big difference in our actual weight, but experts note the gain in fat is often offset by the loss of muscle mass. And more bad news: the more muscle mass we lose, the more fatigued we feel. When we’re tired, we’re less likely to exercise — and physical activity is important for maintaining muscle. Worse yet, health surveys show that older adults tend to be much less active than younger adults. When people hit their fifties, they may need 200-300 fewer calories per day, yet they are still eating a similar diet. In addition as we age we’re more likely to be affected by a health condition like arthritis that makes getting regular physical

Our bodies are built for moving, not sitting around for long periods activity even more challenging. Ways to fight the weight gain Like it or not, our bodies are going to change as we age, and some influences aren’t easy to overcome — like our genes and hormone changes. The good news is we can make lifestyle choices to help. Here are some ways experts say we can give our metabolism and our waist lines a helping hand: Exercise. Let’s start with the obvious: we need to get moving in order to burn calories and keep our

A Healthy Breakfast to Start the Long Day Ahead

improved strength and endurance, and they’ll protect us from injury as well as support our joints.

health surveys show that older adults tend to be much less active than younger adults muscles strong. Current guidelines recommend that adults get a total of 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity each week — or about 30 minutes most days of the week. Examples of moderate activities include a brisk walk or cycling, while vigorous activities make you work a little harder — like cross country running, swimming or jogging. If your activity is more towards the light to moderate side, some experts say to increase the amount of activity to as much as 60 minutes — especially if you’re trying to lose weight. Build muscle. When it comes to muscle mass, it’s a “use it or lose it” situation — and cardiovascular exercise isn’t enough. Experts recommend that muscle and bone strengthening activities should be part of our fitness routines — at least twice a week and including all major groups. As we gain more muscle, we’ll burn more calories because the body uses more energy to maintain muscle than it does to maintain fat. However, the benefits don’t end there: strong muscles mean

Keep moving. Experts say the more we move, the better — and that’s in addition to regular exercise and strength training. Consider this permission to tap your toes along with the radio, or pace the floor while you’re on the phone. While fidgeting won’t replace your exercise routine, people who do it burn more calories. Recent studies have also shown that too much sitting can be deadly. The human body was made to move, say researchers. Eat breakfast. Consider it your metabolism’s wake up call to go back into calorie burning mode. When we skip breakfast — or any other meal of the day, for that matter — experts think the body may conserve calories because it won’t know when to expect more fuel. In other words, we’re more likely to convert calories into fat. Skipping

When it comes to muscle mass, it’s a “use it or lose it” situation — and cardiovascular exercise isn’t enough.

When we’re sleep deprived, it’s hard to get exercise

Like it or not, our bodies are going to change as we age meals can lead us to overeat at other meals. Eat more frequently. Smaller meals throughout the day can also be a plus rather than relying on “three squares”. For instance, save your serving of fruit from breakfast or lunch for a snack instead. Some experts believe this will help keep your metabolism running well throughout the day. Beside, we need a healthy, balanced diet to ensure we’re losing fat, not muscle. Another bonus: many people find “grazing” to be more satisfying and consequently consume less. Enjoy lean protein. What we eat can make a difference too. Some studies say that consuming about 30 per cent of our calories from lean sources of protein (like chicken or low-fat dairy) can help boost the metabolism. Protein also helps us feel fuller for longer, and less likely to overeat. Also, avoid foods high in fats, sugars and processed starches. Aside from the empty calories, these foods can do a number on our digestive system — which can impact our moods and energy levels. However, take all this dietary advice with a grain of salt: not everyone agrees that skipping meals or eating smaller meals makes a big difference to your metabolism. However, other experts point out that maybe we could get away with dietary faux pas in our teens and twenties — but not so much in our 40s and 50s. Regardless, many experts agree to avoid eating if you aren’t hungry and have a healthy snack if you are — despite what the clock says. Get your Zzzzzs. Experts are still investigating how sleep affects our hormones — especially the ones that help regulate appetite and

metabolism. However, they do know that when we’re sleep deprived, it’s hard to get exercise. We’re also prone to craving those less-thanhealthy foods like sugary treats. Talk to your doctor. There are many reasons why people gain weight, and diet and exercise may not be enough to make a difference. Some health conditions (like thyroid disease) or medication side effects can cause us to gain weight, and some researchers think chronic stress can be a factor too. If you suspect something is wrong, experts say to consult your doctor. Besides, experts always warn we should consult our health care providers before we embark on a new diet or fitness regime. One strategy experts say we should be wary of is using supplements that promise to boost the metabolism — citing safety concerns, questions of efficacy and unnecessary expense as major concerns. Right now there isn’t a lot of research to prove any single substance can “rev up” your metabolism — and weight loss supplements frequently appear on list of recalls. Even if a supplement is safe and effective, experts say the effects wouldn’t be permanent — chances are you would stop seeing the benefits when you stopped taking the pills and the weight would return. If you’re considering taking a supplement, talk to your health care providers first. What about the future? Experts continue to investigate all the complex factors that affect our metabolism — especially as we age. In the future, we may have even more ways to address weight gain and other health indictors related to metabolism. Sources: About.com: Weight Loss, The Mayoclinic.com, MSN Fitness.

Page 41 Mature Living February 2012

Health

10 symptoms you shouldn’t ignore Unexplained weight loss. While for many of us, weight loss isn’t necessarily a bad thing, if you’re losing excessive weight without intending to do so, it’s time to consult your doctor. (Unintentional excessive weight loss is considered to be 5 per cent of your weight within one month and/or 10 per cent of your weight within six to 12 months.) Unexplained weight loss could be caused by an overactive thyroid, depression, liver disease, cancer, or disorders that interfere with how well your body absorbs nutrients.

hen it comes to your health, denial can be deadly. Most of us recognise the signs of a heart attack and the life-and-death stakes of reacting quickly. And while few would blithely ignore such symptoms as chronic chest pain or shortness of breath, we also need to pay attention to the more subtle signs our bodies give us that something could be wrong. While some signals are certainly more urgent than others, milder symptoms can also signal trouble and can impact on your quality of life.

milder symptoms can also signal trouble and can impact on your quality of life. When denial can be deadly Here are 10 symptoms you ignore at your own peril, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Persistent fever. A persistent low-grade fever — over 38 C or 100.4 F — could signal hidden infections ranging from a urinary tract infection to tuberculosis. It could, however, also be linked to malignant conditions such as lymphomas. Note: If you have an immune system problem or take immune-suppressing drugs, fever may not be a reliable warning sign. Also fever can be a reaction to certain treatments or medications, such as chemotherapy for cancer. Shortness of breath. If you’re feeling short of breath, and it’s beyond the usual stuffy nose or feeling winded from exercise, this could point to an underlying health problem. Causes for breathlessness could include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic bronchitis, asthma, heart problems, anxiety, panic attacks, pneumonia, a blood clot in the lung (pulmonary embolism), pulmonary fibrosis and pulmonary hypertension. Note: Seek immediate medical attention if you begin wheezing or feel breathless with or without exertion or when reclining. Unexplained changes in bowel habits. Changes in bowel habits may indicate a bacterial infection such as campylobacter or salmonella, or a viral or parasitic infection. Other possible causes are inflammatory bowel disease and colon cancer. Experts recommend seeing your doctor if you have any of the following: • Severe diarrhea lasting more than two days

Page 42 Mature Living February 2012

• Mild diarrhea lasting a week • Constipation that lasts for more than two weeks • Unexplained urges to have a bowel movement • Bloody diarrhea • Black or tarry-colored stools Mental status changes. Significant changes in thinking or behaviour can be caused by infection, head injury, stroke and low blood pressure. They can also be a result of medications, especially those you’ve only recently started taking. See your doctor if any of the following occur: • Sudden or gradual confused thinking • Disorientation • Sudden aggressive behavior • Hallucinations in someone who has never had them New or more severe headaches (especially if you’re over age 50). A sudden or serious headache can be caused by stroke, blood vessel inflammation (arteritis), meningitis, brain tumor, aneurysm or bleeding on the brain after head trauma. Be particularly aware of a headache accompanied by fever, stiff neck, rash, mental confusion, seizures, vision changes, speaking difficulties and scalp tenderness or pain with chewing. Short-term loss of vision, speaking or movement control. These are signs of a possible stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) — so minutes count. Seek immediate emergency medical care if you have any of the following:

• Sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm or leg on one side of your body • Sudden dimness, blurring or loss of vision • Loss of speech, or trouble talking or understanding speech • A thunderclap headache (a severe headache that strikes like a clap of thunder) • Sudden dizziness, unsteadiness /fall Flashes of light. The sudden sensation of flashing lights may signal the beginning of retinal detachment. To save vision in the affected eye, seek immediate medical care. Feeling full after eating very little. Feeling full sooner than usual? If you’re full after eating little food and have persistent nausea and vomiting that last more than a week, consult with your doctor. There are many possible causes, including pancreatic cancer, stomach cancer and ovarian cancer. Hot, red or swollen joint. These could be caused by a joint infection, which requires emergency care to save the joint and keep bacteria from spreading elsewhere. Other possible causes include gout or certain types of arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis. Don’t be alarmed, just aware Many signs and symptoms are caused by conditions that aren’t chronic, but very treatable — but the adage ‘better safe than sorry’ certainly applies with it comes to your health. The bottom line: don’t ignore any symptoms or concerns, but consult with your doctor.

Gardening

The Joy of Gardening with Grandchildren have to water it and when the time comes, they can offer its fruit to their friends explaining how they took care of it. They will feel proud of themselves when they say, “I did it myself!” Above all, praise their flowers and let them know how well they’ve taken care of them; it will lead to a good gardening experience. Lead by example, keep personal plants healthy or the wrong message may be sent. Respect grandchildren’s limits; the intention is to inspire love for gardening and not obligation or boredom.

windowsill, some flowerpots on a balcony, a yard, a garden or a sprawling estate are all areas where precious moments can be spent gardening with grandchildren, regardless of their age. Imagine the smile on their faces, the happiness in their eyes and the dirt on their hands as they encounter nature. Children have a natural curiosity about every plant and living creature, and gardening is a wonderful activity to enrich their interest. The Benefits Gardening with grandchildren is an opportunity to talk about nature’s beauty, to work together, to develop strong bonds, to make lasting memories and to build a unique relationship with Mother Nature. It’s great exercise for all parties: walking, bending and stretching; and a natural form of relaxation that can’t be found sitting in front of a TV or a computer. Spending time and energy in a natural way helps everyone stay healthy, slim and fit and have fun together. Studies show that through gardening, children can be taught values such as love for nature, respect for all creatures, social skills, responsibility, patience and the ability to make healthy food choices. Cultivate a grandchild’s love for gardening Children like grasping the hose or watering can and flooding the plants! Teach them how to do it, and

they will love the job. Let them choose some seeds or bulbs of flowers and vegetables to plant, but direct them to those that succeed easier and produce flowers and fruits faster because children love seeing the result of their labour quickly. Suitable plants are lettuce, strawberries, radishes, cucumbers, tomatoes and sunflowers. Let them have fun transplanting plants, but explain that plants’ roots take some time to adapt to a new environment. Allow children to be responsible for their plants: to plant, water and weed them and to understand that if they take good care of them, later they can pick flowers and vegetables. However, explain that sometimes the plants may die due to some reason like disease. In this way, they will learn to accept loss. Go together to buy some tools such as a watering can, a small rake and a small shovel. For young children, the tools should be plastic. Talk to them about the life cycles of plants or tell them stories about each flower or vegetable. Show them the insects that visit their plants and explain their role in the production of fruits. Talk to them about the beneficial insects and say that even the destructive ones can be interesting. They’ll be excited to share with their friends what they have learned about gardening with their grandparents. Let them give a special name to a tree that can be their own. They

Children’s favourite plants Children love big and impressive flowers like sunflowers, but small vegetables and fruits such as tiny tomatoes and strawberries usually attract them. Potato varieties as well as cucumbers, attract them too. However, keep in mind that big flowers and vegetables need plenty of room while the small ones can be planted in pots, tubs or barrels. Children also like fragrant plants like basil, lavender, parsley, roses and scented geraniums. Show them purple or white carrots and radishes in various colours, and they will be fascinated. Gardening activities 3-4 years old: Children love to imitate their elders. Give them plastic tools to help. Tell them tales about fairies that live under a small vegetable or inside a flower. Attract their attention to creatures that live in the garden such as bees, butterflies, worms, snails and toads. In a playful way, help them recognize the colours, the flowers, and the vegetables. Play “guess the plant” game. Press a fragrant leaf, let them smell it and say its name. Ask them to close their eyes and do the same. They have to guess the name of the leaf by recognizing its smell. Reward them with a fruit or a flower. 5-7 years old: Let them plant seeds and bulbs: water the flowers, pull weeds, rake and pick vegetables, fruits and flowers. At this age, children start reading and they can read seed packets, write the name of a plant on a plant marker and calculate how much the flowers will

cost. They can carve their name in the rind of a growing pumpkin and watch the change in their name as the pumpkin grows. Tell stories to them about the life cycle of plants. Watch together the creatures that live in the garden, and teach them how to recognise the signs they leave behind. 8-9 years old: They are more skilled at using garden tools. Give them a big flowerpot or a small area of garden and let them decide on the design and what to plant; teach them how to build a small fence around their plot. Give them the responsibility to take care of their plants. Ask them to help pick vegetables, to wash them carefully and, with help, prepare their food. 10-12 years old: Apart from the usual jobs, they can complete tasks that are more sophisticated. If a big garden is available, help them build a tree house, fort or secret place. If it’s a small space, they can build bird feeders. They can plan theme gardens such as gardens with fragrant plants. Give them a camera to take pictures of their garden, so they can document the stages of their plants’ growth. Let imagination and love for grandchildren guide the gardening experience and they will learn to love it as much as their grandparent.

Children have a natural curiosity about every plant and living creature, and gardening is a wonderful activity to enrich their interest.

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Feature Article Services Directory

JB’s DENTURE CLINIC Garden/Tone St, Ballina.

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alla Stoves, Main Street, Balla, (beside Balla Florists) has a great selection of top quality and value stoves now instore. Balla Stoves stocks Best-Fire stoves and is the only stove supplier in Connacht to sotck this brand. Prices of these stoves start from just €299 up to €1500; offering stoves with 5kW upto stoves with 30kW. All stoves are multi-fuel and come with a guarantee, Balla Stoves will also supply and fit the stoves for customers. Balla Stoves is running a special offer at the moment with a FREE 25KG BAG OF BIOMASS BRIQUETTES with any stove purchased. Call into Balla Stoves today and see the full range on offer. Opening hours are Monday to Saturday, 10am to 6pm. Contact 0949366622 or email ballastoves@yahoo.com

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Services Directory

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Counsellors are professionally trained and are fully accredited or working towards accreditation. For appointments ring: 087-2879707, or 074-9723822 Email: taborhouse2004@eircom.net Tabor House, Drimark, Donegal Town

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S.T.O.P. is a registered charity which was set up to assist and support individuals who feel suicidal, are in distress or those who have been bereaved by suicide. Currently S.T.O.P. provide the following services • Provides bereavement support through a suicide bereavement group which meets monthly. • Support and outreach to those bereaved by suicide. • Promotes positive mental health and related issues by attending information evenings and also visiting (when requested) schools, communities and organisations throughout Ireland. • Counselling for those who are feeling suicidal / depressed or have been bereaved by suicide.

If you feel that you could benefit from any of the above support please call Mary on 087-4188053.

Puzzles

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To be in with a chance of winning, simply solve the puzzle in the usual way, and then send your completed crossword along with your name, address and telephone number to us at the address below! Puzzle Competition, Mature Living Magazine, Cleveragh Road, Sligo

Closing Date is March 5th 2012, Terms and Conditions Apply

Answers on page 38

Dating SLIGO LADY, LATE 50’S Seperated, looking for male for friendship. Honest, look good, dress well, very outgoing, love travelling, dancing, taichi, swimming, walking, dining out, animals, fun loving and easy going. Replies, along with a blank Stamped Envelope to Box number 800 at the usual address MATURE GUY, TALL, GOOD LOOKING Own place, good body, would like to meet other guy from Mayo, Sligo looking for friendship. Replies, along with a blank Stamped Envelope to Box number 626 at the usual address LONELY LADY, 55 Who has everything in life but not that special someone, Looking for a caring and genuine man of similar age to share life with. Very easy going and fun loving. Replies, along with a blank Stamped Envelope to Box number 627 at the usual address. GALWAY MALE DIVORCED 52, honest sincere and easy to get on with, likes walking, hill climbing and home decorating, social drinker and likes music, would like to meet nice lady. Replies, along with a blank Stamped Envelope to Box number 420 at the usual address

If you are interested in meeting someone of the opposite sex, or the same sex, send in your Advert to us using the form below

RETIRED LEGALLY SEPERATED SLIGO MALE Early sixties, own house and car, would like to meet a settled good looking female, mid or late fifties with a view to relationship, must be a trendy dresser and enjoy dancing occasionaly and have a good time generally. Replies to box number 394 at the usual address LADY 60’S seeking male or female for friendship to meet 2 or 3 times a week for chats and coffee. Interests include: Birthday Horoscopes, Card Reading, etc. Replies to box number 152 at the usual address. To Reply to Any Box number, simply place your letter in a Blank, Stamped Envelope and then send this into us at: Dating Section, Mature Living Magazine, Cleveragh Road, Sligo.

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