Mature Living Leinster

PROMOTING A HEALTHY & POSITIVE LIFESTYLE February 2014

FOR THE OLDER, BOLDER INDIVIDUAL IN LEINSTER

Gardening with grandchildren

Best breeds for allergy sufferers

Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability

Is aging to blame for weight gain?

Clarion Sligo

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Contents

www.matureliving.ie

February 2014

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ELL, it doesn’t look a bit like Spring, does it? The torrential rain and strong winds seem to be making way for snow as we go to press with the second issue of the Leinster edition of Mature Living. The weather conditions since the start of the New Year make us realise just how much we need each other. We hear some frightening stories of people stranded, with roads and bridges literally blown away or swept aside by flood waters.

We urge people to be vigilant, especially to the plight of elderly living alone. It must be a frightening experience for many of them as they powerlessly watch the rising waters. It is also a timely message for the powers that be that encroaching climate change means something has to be done to bolster large sections of our coastline and riverbanks against the threat to homes and businesses.

However, Spring will, hopefully, soon be in the air and the season always brings hope to our lives. To borrow the much-hackneyed phrase “green shoots are in evidence” in many quarters.

Somebody who comes into our lives almost every day of the week is RTE’s newscaster and anchor for the Nine O’Clock News, Eileen Dunne. She took time out to talk to Mature Living about work, family and ambitions for the future. Strangely enough, she said the request for an interview prompted her to take stock of her own life and maybe put some plans in place to wind down some of her extraneous activities over the next few years. Viewers should not fret, however; rest assured, Eileen will remain part of our lives for many years to come.

We continue into 2014 with many other interesting articles and nuggets of advice. We look at some older icons that all of us are familiar with and provide some advice for those planning for retirement. Allied to this we talk about the benefits of exercise to help us live a bit longer so we can enjoy the autumn and winter days of our lives.

Ageing is never an obstacle to love, however, and with Valentine’s Day upon us it is, perhaps, appropriate to give some time to the issue of Mature Dating. We post the question whether ageing is to blame for weight gain – a thorny issue at any age. There is a useful section also on the treatment of people with hearing problems.

From its inception Mature Living has received much positive feedback on our Travel section and for those of us with limited resources we include an article on how to visit and enjoy the Big Applie on a budget. Depression, unfortunately, is a live issue at any age and we highlight the difficulties of dealing with a depressed spouse In addition we have our usual array of articles and features, plus some exciting competitions. if you wish to contact us or find out how to receive a copy each month contact our Subscription Department at 071-91-54538 or e-mail info@matureliving.ie.

Seamus Casey - Editor

LAST MONTH’S COMPETITION WINNERS Congratulations to last months competition winner who won a breakaway to the Clayton Hotel in Galway V Feerey, Mullingar, Co Westmeath

Editorial: Seamus Casey seamus@matureliving.ie Design: Stephen Finney steve@matureliving.ie Advertising Sales: Lisa Gilmartin lisa@matureliving.ie

News Eileen Dunne: Telling it as it is for thirty years Older Style Icons Plannng for retirement Travel: Big apple on a budget What is Coeliac disease?

Gluten-Free Living Exercise & Longevity The Bands of our Showband era A glimpse into the past with a very special set of postcards Mature Dating How to Deal with a Depressed Spouse Pets: The best breeds for allergy sufferers Chia: The Ancient Super Seed The Joy of Gardening with Grandchildren Speaking Clearly ... and Slowly!

Is aging to blame for weight gain?

How to reduce the perils of parking Astro Agony Services Directory

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27 28 37 34 35 40 41 42 44 46

Published by: Benbulben Publishing Limited PO Box 41, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford Tel/Fax: 053-9270857 Web: www.matureliving.ie • Email: info@matureliving.ie

The information in Mature Living is carefully researched and believed to be accurate, but the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors or omissions. Statements or opinions expressed herein are not necessary those of the editor or publisher. Advertisements within the publication are not endorsed by the publisher. Neither are any claims made within the advertisements. Before consuming any products mentioned in the publication readers are advised to consult with their general practitioner or equivalent professional for opinion or advice.

News

Microchipping legislation welcomed

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egislation providing for compulsory microchipping of dogs is expected to be published shortly, the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine has told Galway West TD Brian Walsh.

Deputy Walsh, who raised the matter with the Minister this week, welcomed the announcement that legislation requiring all dogs to be microchipped will soon come before the

Dáil.

He said that mandatory microchipping would act as a deterrent to dog theft, reunite more stray dogs with their owners, and make it easier to identify and prosecute perpetrators of animal cruelty.

“I am pleased that there has been progress in relation to this legislation, and we are on course to see compulsory microchipping rolled out in Ireland as early as next

year,” said Deputy Walsh.

“This is an important policy objective and one that will be welcomed by dog lovers, livestock owners, and anyone with an interest in animal welfare.”

A variety of options for phasing in the requirement to microchip dogs is currently considered.

These include making microchipping mandatory for newly born pups after a certain date, making it mandatory for all dogs sold or gifted after a certain date, or making it mandatory for all dogs within a set timeframe.

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Simon Coveney told Deputy Walsh that a number of approaches were being considered. “However, I expect to be in a position to introduce appropriate legislation shortly,” he added.

Third Age - committed to promoting the value of older people Third Age is a national voluntary organisation committed to the promoting the value of older people in local communities throughout Ireland. Third Age has over 1,400 volunteers, mainly older people working variously as tutors, listeners, advocates, and in a variety of intergenerational programmes.

Third Age has three national programmes: Senior Help Line – a national confidential listening service for older people. Senior Help Line received 28,500 calls in 2013, and supports callers by listening empathetically, empowering the caller, and referring to other appropriate services as required. Failte Isteach – ‘Welcome In’ provides free classes in conversational English to migrants. Failte Isteach has 559 volunteers working in 60 centres throughout Ireland, their work impacting positively on 1,600 families each week. Failte Isteach is helping to break down barriers and foster integration in communities.

The Third Age National Advocacy Programme – provides independently trained volunteer advocates

to work one-to-one with residents in nursing homes.

At present 132 advocates offer a service in 105 nursing homes. The service also manages a web site myhomefromhome.ie displaying accurate up-todate advice for families who need to choose a nursing home, and a Personal Excellence programme for care staff.

The advocacy programme currently benefits residents, families, nursing home staff and relevant professionals.

Third Age’s national office is in Summerhill, Co Meath where a programme is offered to 100 local members. The covers volunteering opportunities, arts, choir, health initiatives, Internet Cafe, library, laundry and complementary therapy sessions. The organisation also manages a number of local and regional programmes. Established over 10 years ago, the Knitting Project supplies Third Age members who teach knitting to primary school children. As well as passing on a useful craft, the Knitting Project develops positive relationships between old and young thus helping to combat ageism, and limit

Page 4 Mature Living February 2014

negative attitudes towards older people.

Another intergenerational project ‘The Way We Were’ brings history alive and gives primary school children a glimpse of days gone by. A group of members in Summerhill members have collected over 100 artefacts – items from homes, attics and barns - and assembled these into a memorable exhibition. Members host and present this exhibition in schools where it is most enthusiastically received. In response to requests, the members are now bringing the exhibition to nursing homes where it is proving to be reminiscence therapy at its best.

A philosophy of engagement underlines the Third Age philosophy. There is a desire to connect older people with their communities through providing programmes which contribute to continued engagement in life, and which also serve the community.

Third Age needs volunteers from time to time for its various programmes. If you would like more information, or literature, telephone 046-9557766, or log on to www.thirdageireland.ie

Are you Suffering from Geopathic Stress?

Have you or your family any of the following.

Unresolved or recurring illness, Tired on waking, Arthritis, Allergies, Fatigue, Insomnia, Poor memory, Irritation or Frequent arguments, Headaches, Depression, Cancer, MS, ME, these are common problems associated with Geopathic Stress. theirishhealer.

Robert Ennis • Tel: 086 8079723 • robertennis@mail.com

www.geopathicstressireland.net

Protect your home And pour pocket from the hidden dangers of limescale

D

id you know that each year, in a hard water area, the average family home will use water containing 70kg (154lbs) of scale. The Carbon Trust estimate that just 1mm of limescale in water pipes increases energy consumption by 7%. With utility bills set to rise for the foreseeable future, this represents a significant cost to the average family home.

Limescale build-up reduces the lifespan of appliances and increases the likelihood of a breakdown.

Even if you ignore the hidden dangers lurking in your water system, physical evidence of limescale damage is all too evident throughout your home. In the kitchen, taps, tiles and stainless steel surfaces all bear the hallmarks of limescale damage. Evidence can be found on your pots and pans and, unless your dishwasher has just been installed, you will find tell tale water spots and stains on just-washed glasses and cutlery, too. In bathrooms, toilets, taps and tiles are dulled with scale damage, and the once-sparkling sink and shiny shower enclosure are almost impossible to keep clean for any length of time.

Even freshly washed clothes feel rough to the touch, and tiny scale particles can contribute to incidences of dry, irritating skin for yourself and family members.

THE GOOD NEWS is that limescale can be permanently removed from your home quickly and easily, using a system that pays for itself in the first 18 months. After that, the significant savings are

yours to keep ... year after year! A whole-house water softener from EWT provides real cost savings in terms of service, maintenance and replacement of water heaters, dishwashers,

washing machines and showers, and also extends their life expectancy.

You can call EWT now on 1850 911 917 or visit www.ewtwater.ie for more information

PREMIER INTRODUCTORY SERVICE

Trying to find that someone special, particularly as we get a bit older can be a daunting experience. The unknown of on-line dating and some of the more traditional methods aren't for everyone. We established Unclaimed Treasures to specifically cater for the needs of the over 40s to active retired in Ireland Here at Unclaimed Treasures we want to bring the excitement of meeting new people back to our members.

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Call: 01-4945993 / 087-1379025 unclaimedtreasuresireland@gmail.com www.unclaimedtreasures.ie

Overnight stay, with 3 course meal in The Ivy and breakfast the next morning from just

€60 per person sharing

Offer available Sunday – Thursday • Subject to availability, some blackout dates may apply Other Offers also available - contact hotel for details

Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa, Dunboyne, Co Meath Telephone: 01-8013500 www.dunboynecastlehotel.com

News

10 things you should know about Bicarbonate of Soda and pain relieved from taking ½ tsp of baking soda in a small glass of water every two hours until pain has stopped.

Help dry out cold sores or mouth ulcers by making a paste with bicarb and a tiny bit of water.

For insect bites or bee stings, take a tsp of bicarb, mix with a small bit of water and paste onto the bite to relieve stinging, swelling and itching.

People of any age can relieve tired aching muscles after any activity by drinking 1 tsp of bicarb in a tall glass of water.

By Lisa Brandon With the minefield of different products available for cleaning, hygiene and even medicinal use, it’s hard to figure out how to spread the cost to cover these in a weekly shop. Especially with rising prices in almost every product it’s hard to keep on top of it all. Why not cut these bills to a euro a week to cover a whole variety of uses with just one product. Bicarbonate of soda, otherwise known as Bread soda, Baking Soda or Bicarb, is available in every local shop across Ireland, and it should be at the top of everyone’s shopping list.

It’s a naturally occurring mineral and one of the safest most versatile substances around used for medicinal and countless household purposes, according to Dr Mercola of www.mercola.com. Taken internally, it balances the ph of the body resulting in relief from many ailments.

Here are just a small variety of uses from this simple, cheap but effective product which has been in use since Egyptian times.

Medicinal Uses To relieve indigestion, just take a glass of water with ½ tsp of bicarb.

To relieve heartburn or acid reflux, add ½ a tsp of baking soda to 2 tbsp of lemon juice and drink.

Urinary tract infections can be cleared

Natural odorizer.

Fed up of spending a fortune on expensive deodorants filled with chemicals?

Just make a paste out bicarb and water and brush lightly under arms. It stops both the smell and the excessive sweating.

Are someone’s smelly trainers stinking out a room? Sprinkle a dusting of bicarb inside each shoe before going to bed at night and empty out in the morning before putting them on.

If smelly feet are the bigger issue, try a foot bath filled with warm water, half a cup of bicarb and some salt, and soothe those tired feet while neutralising any odours.

Household Cleaning Instead of buying expensive chemical laden kitchen cleaners, why not use bicarb? Sprinkle onto worktops, kitchen sinks and just wipe clean with a damp cloth. It can also be used as a replacement for washing up liquid.

Another good tip to save on washing powder detergents, mix half your usual amount with half a cup of bicarb and see your washing come out odour and stain free while saving half your weekly spend on washing powder.

There are hundreds of uses for bicarbonate of soda, all non toxic and safe to use internally and in your home. Why not try these and experience the benefits for yourself?

The Pleasures and Pains of writing

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rom Swift to Yeats to Joyce, Wilde and Beckett writers from Ireland can boast wide international acclaim and a total of 5 Nobel prize winners for literature have been awarded to Irish writers. With this wealth of literary heritage it’s not surprising that Creative Writing courses abound throughout the country. There’s a large amount of new fiction coming out of Ireland and with the plethora of festivals and other literary events many people are discovering the joys and rewards of creative writing. Apart from the pure pleasure and therapeutic value that be derived from it, writing can also be turned into a profitable activity. With many new publications on the market, new avenues that have opened up to the aspiring writer, including publishing online there are opportunities to make money from your writing. But whether you make money from it or not creative writing is a hugely rewarding activity.

One of the best ways to get you started in the writing field is to join a

writer’s course. It can be very hard to motivate yourself, without the encouragement and support of being part of a writers group. Writing also can be a lonely pastime so the benefits of being part of a writing circle are manifold; not only will you receive that all important feedback on your work, but you’ll be able share your ideas, trials, tribulations and triumphs in writing with other writers. The only people who really understand and sympathize with what you’re going through as a writer are other writers.

About the author: Ros Campbell, BA (hons) in English literature has taught Creative Writing classes to adults for several years in the VEC and other schools. He has contributed many pieces to newspapers and magazines and was a columnist with Localnews for 2 years.

His courses run in Lucan Community college. Tel 6282077 and in Malahide Castle Tel 8666780 or contact Ros on 085 1395 320.

SALES EXECUTIVE REQUIRED

To sell advertising space in Mature Living Leinster Edition The ideal candidate will:

• Have good negotiation skills • A good phone manner • Ability to learn and work within deadlines • Persistent, self-motivated, enthusiastic, resilient, tenacious, patient and flexible • Well organised, ability to plan, work under pressure, target oriented/goal driven • Able to build relationships with current and potential clients

Excellent remuneration for the right person, email: seamus@matureliving.ie or call 085-2498067

The Amazing Healing Properties of Homemade Nettle Tea

By Lisa Brandon

T

he stinging nettle plant, Latin name Urtica Dioica, has always put the fear of god into most people. Everyone at some stage has accidentally brushed by this plant and received a painful stinging sensation lasting a couple of hours. But that’s not what this plant should be known or recognised for.

There are countless health benefits we can get from this ordinarily nightmarish weed for gardeners and this may change your opinion of them forever.

It has been used medicinally since 3 B.C. throughout the world according to Stephanie Draus of www.livestrong.com. There are too many beneficial properties that this plant offers to mention in one go, but the following

below should show you some of the amazing healing properties available from such a simple plant. Just drinking one cup a day can improve your general health instantly.

• Relieves arthritis symptoms • Relieves menopause symptoms • Breaks down kidney stones •Helps alleviate asthma and hay fever symptoms • Helps osteoarthritis • Reduces inflammation • Shown to be helpful for Alzheimer’s sufferers • Boosts circulation • Lowers blood pressure • Fights off and prevents coughs, colds and flu • Good for diabetes patients as it lowers blood sugars and glycemic levels • Clears urinary and kidney infections

Page 6 Mature Living February 2014

• Relieve symptoms of BPH and enlarged prostate • Said to relieve hair loss • Heals skin complaints, such as eczema, acne, allergic dermatitis, etc • Reduces build up of uric acid to relieve gout • Alleviates rheumatism symptoms • Relieves fibromyalgia symptoms • Gives energy to beat fatigue • Good for female hormonal system from menopause symptoms to thyroid problems • It’s a natural diuretic, so increases urination and reduces enlarged prostates • Good for digestion problems, excessive gas, bloating, nausea, colitis and Crohn’s disease • Relieves neurological disorders such as MS, ALS, sciatica • Good for balancing the thyroid

To enjoy these health benefits yourself couldn’t be simpler. Just remember, stinging nettles are aptly named for a reason. Touching any part of the plant or stem can result in being stung, so wear gloves and use a scissors or pruning shears to collect your leaves.

Easy Healing Nettle Juice Tea Recipe 1. Collect one cup full of nettles.

2.Add to a pot with two cups of water 3. Bring close to boiling point 4. Simmer for 3-4 minutes 5. Pour through a strainer and tea is ready Some people like to add sugar or honey to sweeten the taste but it’s not necessary. The taste might take some getting used to but when you feel the benefits of nettle tea you won’t care. It

should be a dark green almost black colour but don’t let that put you off. The healing power of this plant is available to all in Ireland, and can be found in most gardens, by the side of the road or near woody areas.

It will come into abundance in the next few weeks so keep an eye out and try it for yourself.

Villa Rose Hotel & Spa www.villarose.ie

4 Star, Family Owned, Town Centre hotel To Book any of our Dancing & Active Breaks simply Contact our Marketing & Events Co-ordinator Leona McGee

ROI: 074-9132266 NI: 00353749132266 reservations@villarose.net www.villarose.ie

Sequence Dancing in Donegal – 4 Night Break

Ballroom Dancing in Donegal - 4 Night Break

A fantastic week of sequence dancing awaits you in Donegal with hosts Peter & Janet Schofield. Enjoy music from Housty, Liam McLaughlin & Dave Lee.

Enjoy a week filled with dancing to live bands every night, optional dance tuition every afternoon, good food and a friendly atmosphere. Meet new friends or reunite with old friends for an un-missable week in the dancing calendar.

Learn the Quickstep, Slow Waltz, Tango, Jive, Old Time Waltz, Cha Cha Cha & more.

DATE: May 11th – 14th

This Break includes: B&B + Dinner Each Night, Tea/Coffee & Scones on Arrival, Daily Refresher Dance Class, Complimentary Afternoon Refreshments, Dancing to Live Bands Nightly Entertainment in the Forge Bar after Dancing

Only €239pps 50+ Active Breaks DATES: March 17th – 20th / April 13th 16th / April 27th – 30th June 2nd – 5th / September 28th – Oct 1st October 5th – 8th / October 12th - 15th November 2nd – 5th

DATES: May 5th – 8th / June 8th – 11th / September 21st - 24th / October 27th – 30th This Break Includes: B&B + Dinner Each Night, Tea/Coffee & Scones on Arrival, Daily Dance Tuition Daily, Complimentary Afternoon Refreshments, Dancing to Live Bands Nightly Optional Day Trip, Entertainment in the Bar after Dancing.

Only €239pps Anytime Golden Getaways

This Break Includes: B&B + Dinner each Night, Complimentary Tea/Coffee & Scones on Arrival, Complimentary 1 Hour Spa Thermal Session, Activities & Entertainment Including: Social Dance, Guided Nature Walk, Guided History Walk Quiz & Prizes, Bingo, Sunday Night Traditional Irish Session Music in the Forge Bar

3 Nights B&B + 2Dinners €139pps €20 single supplement 2-course dinners consisting of starter & main course.

4 Night Break €199pps • 3 Night Break €159pps 2 Night Break €119pps

Includes: Complimentary 1 Hour Spa Thermal Session each Complimentary Tea/Coffee on Arrival

Available Sunday – Thursday Includes:

All of these breaks include 20% Shopping Discount Vouchers for McElhinneys Department Store located in the town centre.

The first 5 single rooms booked for each break incur no single supplement.

Discover the Mount Falcon Estate, Ballina

Golden Years at Mount Falcon Estate €199 pp 3 nights Bed & Breakfast with 1 Bistro Dinner €25 Spa Credit (valid towards any 1 Hour Message or Facial) Complimentary use of the Estate Golf Driving Range Complimentary use of our leisure centre with 17m heated pool 100 acres of Estate woodlands, walks & river Moy Connaughts Best Restaurant 2013 (RAI) Transfers to local Bus & Train Station on request 10% discount at Foxford Wollen Mills Mayo on our Door Step

MOUNT FALCON, FOXFORD ROAD, BALLINA, CO. MAYO TEL: 096-74472 • FAX: 096-74473 EMAIL: EVENTS@MOUNTFALCON.COM • WEB: WWW.MOUNTFALCON.COM

T

he fascinating history of one of Irelands finest surviving Anglo Irish grand houses awaits visitors to Mount Falcon Estate outside Ballina in County Mayo. After exploring 100 acres of mature forest and walkways, discover the archaeological remains of a 4,500 year old court tomb. A quick stroll around our 3 acre lake with resident ducks and then a few lengths in the 17 m indoor heated swimming pool, relax in our sauna, Jacuzzi and steam room and build up an appetite for traditional afternoon tea; served in opulent lounges in front of roaring open fires. Mount Falcon……something for everyone.

News

Play your way to healthy living with Salubria - The Health Game

“

Salubria The Health Game Salubria is an educational Q+A card game that promotes healthy living in a unique and fun way. Salubria is competitive, very educational, and could seriously improve your health!

It’s suitable for anyone between the ages of 10 years to 110!

Developed in Ireland with the help of leading health professionals, the game uses 200 researched and validated questions to communicate healthy living tips - covering 4 key areas of Fitness, Nutrition, Healthy Living, and General Health Knowledge.

“The critical importance of a healthy lifestyle and the very real consequences of not managing our weight, are conveyed in a fun way in Salubria The Health Game. I really like the helpful suggestions offered in the ‘Info Points’ in each question.”

Prof. Donal O’Shea – Endocrinologist, Dublin,

Health Game is the ‘healthy’ alternative, particularly at Christmas!

Salubria The Health Game® Educational, Fun and Stimulating!

”

Buy online at: www.salubriathehealthgame.com facebook.com/salubriathehealthga me Tel: 01-2828718 / 086-8120665 salubriathehealthgame@gmail.com

Who is Salubria suitable for?

For Schools…a unique educational tool “Salubria is a very engaging way of encouraging children to learn about health issues, and is a good resource for the senior band in primary schools” Carol Lanigan, Principal, Bray School Project, Bray, For Business…the healthy customer reward Whether you’re buying for customers, staff, Board members, or business partners, Salubria The

Hope Cancer Support Centre

22 Upper Weafer Street, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, “People don’t always need advice; sometimes they just need a hand to hold, an ear to listen and a heart that understands “

T

he Hope Centre provides emotional and psychological support to people who have been recently affected by a cancer diagnosis. This support is also available for those who are supporting that person.

Our gentle and caring support takes place in a confidential, professional and non-judgemental environment. You can just pick up the phone or drop in to us and there is no need for a referral from your health professional. Everyone who comes to the Centre is given an opportunity to meet with a support nurse and discuss how the cancer diagnosis has affected you and/or your family. The nurse will take a brief medical history and, together, you can decide how best we can support you.

The underlying principle of Hope is that everyone is a unique

individual with their own set of circumstances and will respond in their own way to the challenges that cancer brings. We will always respect and support you on your personal journey.

All of our services are free of charge SERVICES AVAILABLE BY APPOINTMENT. COUNSELLING,MASSAGE/REFLEXOLO GY, WIG FITTING. LYMPHOEDEMA SERVICE BRA AND PROSTHESIS SERVICE. TELEPHONE SUPPORT. MEDITATION: Mondays 10.30am12.30pm ART: Tuesdays 10.30am-12-30pm YOGA: Fridays 10.30am-12.00pm.

If you would like to join any classes it is essential to book as numbers are limited.

Page 8 Mature Living February 2014

MONTHLY PEER SUPPORT GROUPS. Facilitated by a trained nurse/facilitator.

Breast Cancer Support Group Mens Support group Prostate cancer support group.

Womens support group.

Caregiver support Bereavement support.

All our therapists, who are fully accredited, and are experienced in dealing with people affected by a cancer diagnosis. Please feel free to contact us for any further information and one of our support nurses will be delighted speak with you.

Phone: 0539238555 www.hopesupportcentre.ie Info@hopesupportcentre.ie Opening Hours are Monday-Friday 9am-5pm.

Somebody’s parent, Somebody’s grandparents

By Patricia Conboy

T

he Simon Communities of Ireland recently launched a report, “Homelessness, Ageing and Dying” which I strongly recommend to readers of Mature Living. Researched and written by Dr. Kathy Walsh and funded by Age & Opportunity, the report casts light on the perspectives of older homeless people. This is a group whose voices have, until now, been largely silent in public discussion on ageing and older people.

In the course of her research, the author conducted in-depth interviews with sixteen individuals, thirteen male and three female. Their stories merit careful reading both because of the insight they give us into the experience of ageing as a homeless person; and because they highlight the diversity of our ageing population. We cannot devise and implement effective public policies and plans for older people unless we appreciate the diversity of their lived experience.

The definition of old age is not as straightforward as it might seem. Typically we align State Pension age and the start of old age. In Ireland, average life expectancy of is 76.8 and of women is 81.6 but life expectancy figures for homeless people are not available. In England, the average age of death of a homeless man has been set at 47 years and of a homeless woman at 43 years. With life expectancy shortened by problematic drug and alcohol use, higher rates of suicide, accidents, falls and vulnerability to earlier onset of physical and mental illnesses associated with old age, homeless people aged 50 and over are typically counted as ‘older homeless’; and that was the approach applied in this study. The average age of the sixteen research participants was 61 years. Ten had children and some had grandchildren.

Five were in contact with their children at the time of the research.

Sometimes discussions about old age are conducted as if people are born old and are, somehow, a group who are ‘other’ than the rest of us. But old age comes to all of us, and the quality of our lives and health in old age is hugely influenced by earlier life course experiences, both good and bad. The stories presented in this report illustrate how inequality and trauma influence people’s paths into homelessness and extreme social exclusion. For some, the experience was of early school-leaving, early emigration, alcohol abuse; for others, the first experience of homelessness was in their fifties and was associated with loss or breakdown of a long-term relationship, followed by a court order requiring them to vacate the family home.

How much pain and suffering could have been averted with effective, early intervention ?

In this sensitive research study, Murphy also explored attitudes to dying with the participants and found that they did not want to die alone, that most expressed a strong desire to die where they were (in supported accommodation) or in hospital, and that they did not want to be transferred to a nursing home.

The report concludes with policy recommendations regarding health care and services, end of life care, accommodation and further research.

Walsh, K.,(2013)Homelessness, Ageing and Dying, Simon Community and Age & Opportunity is available from: http://www.simon.ie/Publications/Research.aspx Blog: www.patriciaconboy.com Twitter : @PatriciaConboy1

Lynns Dock Finisklin, Sligo • Tel: 071-9157830 • Wood Floor Restoration • Wood Floor Maintenance • Floor Sanding & Repair • Hard Wax Polishing • Reclaimed Flooring • Relaying • Free Estimates on all work • All Work Guaranteed Sligo Wood Floor have many years of industry experience, and have helped hundreds of clients – both domestic and commercial – to give their floors a new lease of life. Our expert team have the skills required to effectively return any floor to its former glory, and will also be happy to advise you as to the best care methods for your flooring.

“When you are looking to update your floor, either at home or at work, Sligo Wood Flooring can offer a full site survey to assess the condition of your floor, as well as the effectiveness of your existing cleaning regime.

We will recommend the correct floor sanding and restoration technique for your specific requirements, whilst also advising you as to how to improve the way you clean your floor to guarantee a professional finish for many years to come with our floor sanding and restoring expertise.”

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Feature by Gerry Walsh

Eileen Dunne Telling it as it is for 30 years

Eileen at the Rehab Person Of The Year Awards 2013

S

HE comes into our lives almost every evening at 9 o’clock. To lots of people her job may appear to be an easy one. However, it was difficult enough to get a window in the busy life of RTE’s newscaster and radio presenter Eileen Dunne to speak to us about herself, family and work. One of the options she gave me was when she was at the hairdressers around mid-day. Naturally, I asked her if she felt comfortable talking while at the hairdressers, to which she replied humorously: “yeah, yeah, they know more about me than I do myself” Maybe this sums up the sole

anchor for RTE’s flagship Nine O’Clock News. She exhibits a calm, down-to-earth persona which is, perhaps, vital when fronting live TV. She also presents live afternoon news bulletins on the half-hour for RTE radio. And yes, she was a joy to interview.

Nerves hardly ever come into play for Eileen when she is presenting on the big screen, except, she says, when it’s a really big gig and things are subject to change every few minutes. Even then, once things get going it all falls into place.

When I asked her if there were stories which stand out as pivotal in her memory she immediately referred to the

Page 10 Mature Living February 2014

capture of Dominic McGlinchey back in 1984. It was a quiet bank holiday morning; she was still working part-time in the newsroom and on an early shift.

There was some big GAA match or other and that was it . . . then all hell broke loose! She also particularly remembers the Dunblane massacre in 1996; this might be influenced by the “mammy-instinct” as her son, Cormac, was quite young at this stage. Other events of note were the Good Friday Agreement and Papal elections.

In general she finds it difficult not to be influenced by tragic stories and there are so many of them at home and abroad. The impact is apparent to viewers as one’s emotions come through; “but if it's a political story, there is no way you should know how I feel about it - I am merely the messenger!”

Born in Clontarf in 1958, Eileen is married to Ros na Run actor Macdara O Fatharta. The couple, who met initially through a mutual friend, live in Clontarf with their son, Cormac, who is currently studying politics, economics and law at DCU and, to date, has indicated no interest in the media business. She studied arts at University College, Dublin, before joining RTE as a staff announcer in 1979. She began presenting news bulletins in 1984 and is still in the newsroom thirty years later.

Growing up, Eileen had not envisaged a career in broadcasting. Her initial preference was for teaching.

However, she is delighted with the way her career path has put her in the limelight and she really enjoys her work.

Mick Dunne who was an RTE sports correspondent. Eileen would attend many a match with her father throughout her childhood.

Being a newscaster she has to keep on top of the news.

There may be a tendency to switch off completely when she is off, but then she has to catch up as she might end up interviewing someone a week later and made to look very foolish.

The entire operation might appear straightforward to the viewer but it’s a team effort and requires liaising with the programme editor, director and chief sub editor on headlines, scripts, interviews, etc., and hopefully it will all come together when they get into studio.

Eileen pictured with former Mayo Person of the Year and presidential candidate Mary Davis.

When asked at one time how it felt to be instantly recognised wherever she went she said: “you know, it becomes part of what you are; not wishing to sound blasé about it, but it’s just part of my life and always has been because of Dad.” She makes a distinction between Dublin and the rest of the country. In Dublin it’s no big deal to see Anne Doyle, Pat Kenny or such people walking down Grafton Street, so people generally leave you alone. In the country, however, it’s more like “is that Eileen Dunne what is she doing here?” And they don’t rest easy until they find out! But she is happy enough with this as 99.9% of the time people are lovely and they just want to say “hello”!

She admits her late father, Mick, was an influence, though his forte was exclusively GAA .

He instilled in the family a great love for GAA and she

Eileen in the RTE newsroom back in 1992

recalls travelling to matches with him all around Ireland when they were young – a Munster final on one Sunday, Connacht final the next.

Eileen also presents the religious affairs programme, The God Slot, for RTE Radio 1 on Friday nights, having previously presented Eileen Dunne’s Classic Melodies for RTE’s Lyric FM pre-2010. Her experience with the God Slot has broadened her insight into comparative religions and she has become enlightened as a result.

Though Eileen has spent 30 years in RTE’s Newsroom, retirement had not entered her bucket-list . . . . until now, anyway! However, she admits that a request for an interview from a publication like Mature Living has provided some food for thought . . . “every so often it hits you that time is moving on and receiving your request was one of them - I was somewhat consoled by the fact that Mary Coughlan and Michael Lyster were there ahead of me!

I tell a story about being on a bus about a year ago, and this woman got on, carrying several bags and looking slightly hassled ... my instinct was to jump up and give her my seat, as I had been brought up to do! Then the thought struck me - she was about ten years younger than me, and I decided to stay put!”

“At the moment I'm busier than ever - being on the 9 brings a lot with it, but I'm planning to give up all the extraneous stuff in the next few years and wind down gently to retirement ... then I'll hopefully spend more time with friends,

Eileen in playful mood on Midlands 103 at the theatre, etc, and a lot more time in France !!

Part of the extraneous work Eileen was referring to is her role as International President of the Association of European Journalists, a position she enjoys. In fact, she loves the entire concept of the EU and the buzz that emanates from Brussels.

Like most people in her position she likes to keep fit and visits the gym or runs a few mornings a week. She is not particularly self-conscious about how she looks on screen, but praises the wardrobe and makeup people for doing a good job.

She is not fanatical about diets, but tries to be careful about what she eats. She loves to cook and likes all cuisines, with the exception of Indian.

Eileen has an interest in music of all genres, but she is really excited and looking forward to seeing and hearing the Eagles and James Taylor in concert in Dublin this Summer which, I suppose, gives a good indication of her musical preferences. She likes the theatre and concert hall but would like to have the time to take in more shows.

An avid reader, she is particularly attracted to the writings of Sebastian Barry. Her role in The Godslot on RTE 1 directed her to a wonderful book (which she recommends highly), “From MTV to Mecca”

by Kristiane Backer. It is a fascinating story about a journey to Islam. She also recommends “Say her Name”, a true story by journalist and novelist Francisco Goldman about the death of his (younger)

wife in a swimming accident in Mexico.

Like many other close observers of events in Ireland over the past five or six years she is delighted that things are beginning to turn. More jobs are coming in than going out at this time. Confidence is better, but debts have still to be paid. We deserved to get a kick in the backside.

Eileen makes no apologies about being a huge fan of the Dubs and this year she feels it’s the turn of the hurlers to take the ultimate accolade. As a sort of consolation to the interviewer she admitted, of course, if Mayo had been facing any other team in September she would have been rooting for them. She regards Willie-Joe (Padden) as one of the greats and it’s always a pleasure to

meet him. Mayo people will recall Eileen’s regular attendance at Mayo Association functions in the Burlington, Dublin, over the years.

As Eileen Dunne concluded her interview and headed towards the studio for another day of bulletins and preparation for the Nine o’clock I thought how much we take for granted the impact people like Ann Doyle, herself and others have had on our lives over the years.

They have essentially become the face of the news but Eileen was able to provide a good insight into what happens in the background to provide us with the key stories of the day. It was also interesting to take a peek into the everyday life of a household name that will, hopefully, grace our screens for many years to come.

Eileen’s husband, Macdara O Fatharta

Page 11 Mature Living February 2014

Fashion by Carol Ryan

Older Style Icons

There is no shortage of style advice for women of all ages, with fashion magazines full of articles dictating what can and cannot be worn in each decade of life.

T

he list of faux pas after 50 is long - short skirts, leather jackets, bikinis, string vests, long hair apparently all are to be surrendered as the years clock up. The default advice for dressing well after 50 is to wear simple, classic clothes; the kind of dressing that French women have down to an art form. It is a safe bet, if a little devoid of personality.

Chic older women are not put on mainstream fashion magazine covers, but there are plenty of them out there if you know where to look. A new blog called “Advanced Style” by New Yorker Ari Seth Cohen shows inspiring and uniquely dressed 60 to 100 year olds who bend the fashion rules that over 50s are expected to conform to. Here are three older female style icons who continue to inspire with their great sense of personal style.

Helen Mirren - the eternal sex bomb 68 year old Helen Mirren was voted the top style icon for women over 50 in a survey by clothing brand CC. Unusually for the acting world, she is not bowing to pressure to stay eternally youthful and never tries to dress younger than her

age. “An awful lot of women look fabulous in their 60s, 70s and 80s” she said when asked about aging well in a recent interview. She went on to rubbish the idea that the years are kinder to men. "This whole idea of women not aging as well as men is just nonsense if you ask me. So many of the ladies look so much better".

On the red carpet she regularly outshines women decades younger. Clearly, she knows what suits her figure but the secret to her look is that she wears luxe fabrics like lace, silk and cashmere in rich colors which give a sexy look without baring too much flesh. She shows decollete and wears beautiful make-up to draw attention to her face and neck, but steers clear of sleeveless outfits. She chooses dresses that play up her small waist and stop just below the knee. Beyond these basic rules she has fun with statement jewelry, great high heels and playful accessories. She isn’t afraid to throw in youthful elements to keep her look interesting and fresh, such as wearing a leather jacket over a long maxi dress or when she recently styled her hair in a Grecian braid for a movie premier.

Helen Mirren

Iris Apfel

Lauren Hutton - classic with a twist 70 year old model and actress Lauren Hutton has been an icon of American beauty since the 1970s and still dresses in the same signature style that made her famous in her youth. Her look is classic, simple and laid back.

She believes in building up a capsule wardrobe of classic pieces like a trench coat, a navy blazer, flattering t-shirts in neutral colors and advises women to spend as much money as possible on good quality basics that will make up the foundation of a great wardrobe. She likes clothes with an androgynous edge, telling Oprah in an interview that “it’s sexy to see curves under straight-cut men’s clothes, and the stars I liked Carole Lombard, Marlene Dietrich, Kate Hepburn - always dressed that way”.

Iris Apfel - the eccentric “Getting older ain’t for sissies” says 92 year old former interior designer Iris Apfel. A regular on the New York social scene, her outlandish dress sense is legendary and gets very mixed reactions. To some people her style is outrageous, even cartoonish, but most consider her extremely chic. Certainly she hasn’t been content to fade into the background with age and dresses with a large dollop of humour.

She avoids wearing anything revealing but says that one of the benefits of age is not having to care how you look in a bikini anymore. Although fabulously

Page 12 Mature Living February 2014

wealthy, she insists that money is not necessary to have style.

"Price has nothing to do with style. Sometimes the least expensive things are the most amusing and witty and when you put them together with something already in your wardrobe you get a smashing new look". This woman does not live by the “less is more” mantra and goes to town with her accessories. She piles on chunky bangles from wrist to elbow and wears dramatic necklaces; her trademark saucer-sized glasses

were described by one journalist as being “round as soup tureens”; and she wraps herself in feathers, furs and shawls in every color imaginable.

To Apfel, style is a reflection of a person’s inner world and developing your own unique look takes work. “Style is something you have to evolve for yourself and it isn't an easy matter. I was talking with my nephew this morning and he gave me one of the best quotes I've heard in years... 'Personal style is curiosity about oneself’”.

Lauren Hutton

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Retirement

Planning for retirement time/ seasonal workers.

The Pensions Board will issue onthe-spot fines and prosecute any businesses found in breach of their obligations. Further information is available from the Pensions Board’s booklet PRSAs Employers’ Obligations from the website www.pensionsboard.ie and you can also check-out the Trustee and Employer Checklist. *A list of all providers is available on the Pensions Board website – www.pensionsboard.ie

W

hether we like to think about it or not, retirement becomes a reality for the majority of us. The good news is that people retiring today tend to live longer and fuller lives than before. In order for us to have the type of lifestyle we would like in retirement we need to plan and save for it, and a pension is one way of doing that. As we have an ageing population in Ireland, it is important that individuals make adequate provision for their retirement. To encourage the individual to contribute to a pension the Government offers tax relief on pension savings.

Consumers also should be aware of the employees’ rights in relation to accessing a pension. By law employers are obliged to provide all employees with access to a pension. Where there is no company pension in place or where some employees can not access that company pension the employer must allow access to a Personal Retirement Savings Account (PRSA) provider. Read on for further information on the obligations involved.

Private Pensions Pensions are by their very nature a long-term investment. Over the lifetime of a pension, which could be thirty to forty years, there will be times of high returns as well as low returns. This is to be expected with all investments and pensions are no different. For those who have started planning for retirement and are investing in a pension it is important to have an understanding as to the investment choices and risks being

made on their behalf.

As mentioned above we’re living longer, the average person retiring tomorrow aged 65 years has a life expectancy of a further 20 – 23 years, this, coupled with increases in the standard of living means that the cost of funding your retirement is growing. It is therefore important that you engage with the pension process and remain engaged whilst you’re contributing to the pension during your working life, so that your expectations in retirement will be met. This is of even greater significance for those nearing retirement age, with five to ten years to go to retirement. The Pensions Board recommends that lower risk options be made available to scheme members as they approach retirement so that the growth experienced can be realised.

The Pensions Board offers a range of booklets, including PRSA’s, A Consumer’s Guide, written in collaboration with the Consumers’ Association of Ireland which help explain the pension process, read on for further information.

The Tax Relief One of the more immediate benefits of contributing to a pension is the tax relief. This relief proves pensions to be one of the most tax efficient ways of saving for the future.

Tax relief is currently available on the pension contributions, the investment gains and most pension schemes currently allow for a tax free lump sum in retirement usually at 25%. It is generally recognised that the older you get your outgoings start

Page 14 Mature Living February 2014

to reduce. In order to incentivise you to allocate more of that income towards retirement the percentage limits of your salary which can be invested in a pension are increased; thereby increasing the tax relief available in accordance with your highest rate of tax – please see the table below.

Employer Obligations Since 2003 employers are obliged, by law, to provide all employees with access to a pension. As mentioned above where there is no company pension in place or where some employees can not access that company pension the employer must allow access to a Personal Retirement Savings Account (PRSA) provider.

The obligations involved in providing access to a PRSA provider consist of three simple steps on the part of the employer To assign a PRSA provider*- this involves the employer contacting a provider and establishing an individual within the provider as their contact point.

To issue the PRSA provider and contact details to the employees and to allow them time during working hours to make contact with the provider and get the information they need.

If the employee decides to start contributing to a PRSA with the designated provider the employer must make the relevant deductions from payroll.

Please note the employer is NOT obliged to make any contributions to the employees’ pension but they must provide this access to all employees including part-

Further Information The Pensions Board’s website www.pensionsboard.ie provides a range of information and resources including – Pension calculators – The Pension Calculator allows you to insert basic personal information such as your age, current salary, and the value of the fund (if any) invested to date and your target pension as a percentage of your preretirement salary. The calculator will then estimate the monthly contributions needed to provide for their pension at retirement.

There are savings and advanced pension calculators available on the website also.

Information Booklets – the Pensions Board also offers a range of booklet free to download from the website including PRSAs, A Consumer Guide What are my Pension Options?

PRSAs Employers’ Obligations A Guide to Annuities The Pension checklist – which provides a quick snapshot of the ten different questions you should ask yourself about planning for retirement and pensions.

If you have any further queries you can contact the Pensions Board at Locall: 1890 65 65 65 The Pensions Board, Verschoyle

House,Lower Mount Street,Dublin2 You should also talk to your bank, insurance company, building society, financial advisor about pensions today.

About the Pensions Board The Pensions Board was established under the Pensions Act 1990, and aims to: promote the security and protection of members of occupational pension schemes, trust RACs and contributors to Personal Retirement Savings Accounts, in accordance with the Pensions Act, 1990, as amendedpromote the development of efficient national pension structures promote a level of participation in the national pension system which enables all citizens to acquire an adequate retirement income provide information and authoritative guidance to relevant parties in support of pension security, structures and participation.

About the National Pensions Awareness Campaign (NPAC) The Pensions Board, on behalf of the Government, organizes the National Pensions Awareness Campaign which aims to encourage greater awareness and understanding of pensions among the general public and specific groups where pension coverage is low increase the numbers addressing the adequacy of their pension provision progress development of financial education planning and programmes inIreland.

NPAC runs a number of initiatives and programmes with representative and organizational groups, attending various seminars and events, as well as promotion and advertising campaigns.

Do you have a problem or worry?

Would you like to talk to someone who will listen?

Call Senior Help Line 1850 440 444 Senior Help Line, Ireland’s only national confidential listening service for older people

Open every day from 10am - 10pm

LoCall 1850 440 444 No landline call costing more than 30 cent Call 1850 440 444

Sandwich Generation

‘Sandwich Generation’ Women need to care for themselves 8 signs you may be heading for Burn-Out 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.

‘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.

Page 16 Mature Living February 2014

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.

Breakaways

Enjoy the beautiful views of the untouched countryside of Mayo

Join us here at Knock House Hotel and enjoy the beautiful views of the untouched countryside of County Mayo. It is a haven of peace and the perfect setting for a relaxing break. Located just 20 minutes from “Ireland West Airport Knock” and 10 minutes from Claremorris Train Station. Take up our 4 Day special Offer for February and March of €199 includes 4 Nights B&B and 4 Evening Meals.

During your break with us we cater to your every need , and it’s a lovely opportunity to make friends and mix with like- minded people. Enjoy our Four Seasons Restaurant which overlooks a beautiful garden and captures the magnificent spire of the Basilica. Over the years it has earned an enviable reputation of food, wine & service.

Knock House Hotel is within minutes of wonderful attractions including Knock Marian Shrine and Museum. Within a short drive; Fr Peyton Memorial, Museum of Country Life (Turlough ), Foxford Woollen Mills and the Western Greenway Cycling Route, and within an hour’s drive, Kylemore Abbey, Michael Davitt Museum and Ceide Fields. Local outdoor activities include hiking and walking, golf, horse riding and angling.

Enniscrone Beach is within a 40 min drive where you can swim, surf or enjoy a seaweed bath.

To book this wonderful deal please call Karen on 0949388088

Special Offer From Knock House Hotel 4 Nights Bed,Breakfast and 4 Evening meals February and March €199 When you call to book Quote : Mature Living PHONE KAREN NOW! *This offer is exclusive to Mature Living Readers and can not be used in conjunc"on with any other offers. *Subject to availability *Terms and Condi"ons apply

Knock House Hotel, Knock, Co Mayo www.knockhousehotel.ie • info@knockhousehotel.ie Tel: 094 9388088 • Fax: 094 9388044

Sligo Park Hotel and Leisure Club HOTEL & LEISURE CLUB

Over 55’s Special Offer 3 B&B + 3 Dinners From

€150pps

4 and 5 Night Breaks also Available

Subject to Availability Available on Selected Dates

Pearse Road, Sligo • Tel: 071 919 0400

www.sligoparkhotel.com • Email: Sligo@leehotels.com

A

warm welcome awaits you at the fourstar Sligo Park Hotel and Leisure Club, On the outskirts of Sligo Town in the Heart of Yeats’ Country set in quiet parkland and surrounded by some of the most scenic countryside in Ireland ranging from the majestic Benbulben to the gentle waters of Lough Gill. In the heart of Yeats’ country for over 40 years, the Sligo Park Hotel is a well established favourite.

Relax in the spacious lobby; take a stroll into town or venture to the nearby ancient sites including Carrowmore, Slish Wood, Dooney Rock & Knocknarea or an abundance of woodland retreats.

Wherever your interests lie, Sligo is sure to have something to offer.

Stroll along Atlantic shores taking in some stunning scenery. Why not try your hand at pottery, take a walk up Knocknarea mountain or go surfing in Strandhill?

After a days exploring, sit back and relax in the jacuzzi before savouring the atmosphere of the Rathanna bar and Garden Terrace and enjoying the creative delights in the Hazelwood Restaurant.

Sligo is surprising !

Visit the stunning Leitrim countryside tours and visits to the surrounding unspoiled countryside. The location facilitates visits to the many nearby lakes that comprise the Leitrim countryside and shopping in nearby Sligo or Enniskillen A visit to Lough Allen hotel & Spa in Drumshanbo is a must and there are packages to suit any budget.

O

ne of the best places to base a home holiday or a week-end break is, undoubtedly, the Lough Allen Hotel in County Leitrim. Situated on the shores of Lough Allen, only 14 km from the bustling town of Carrick on Shannon, it is only a short walk to the town of Drumshanbo.

The hotel has offerings to compare with the top hotels in Ireland and also has the stunning Leitrim countryside. Spa treatments, leisure centre and a sumptuous candlelight dinner are all part of what’s on offer for an unforgettable break. A family re-union can be rounded off with a lavish evening meal It is an ideal wedding venue or conference centre.

The central location of the hotel in Leitrim facilitates

Drumshanbo • Co Leitrim www.loughallenhotel.com

Mid Week 2 Nights B&B Offer 2 Nights B&B for 2 people Only €99 Available Sun-Thur Only...€49.50pps

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To Book Call 071-9640100 or email reservations@loughallenhotel.com

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

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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.econolodgetimessquare.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.

New York can seem a little overwhelming at first so why not get your bearings with

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

a bit of help from one of the locals? Big Apple Greeter (www.bigapplegreeter.org) is a totally 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

Page 18 Mature Living February 2012

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 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

Times Square 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 19 Mature Living February 2014

Health

What is Coeliac disease?

Coeliac disease (pronounced see-lee-yak) is a condition causing some adults and children to react to the gluten, the protein found in wheat, barley and rye. Some coeliacs are also sensitive to the protein found in oats.

Support with the gluten-free diet is essential. It is important that the gluten-free diet is healthy, balanced and nutritionally adequate. This is best achieved with advice from a properly qualified dietitian. Find a dietitian who's a member of the Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute (INDI).

Causes There is clear evidence of a genetic component to coeliac disease. As well as the genetic component, coeliac disease only occurs if it is triggered. These factors lead to coeliac disease in 1 in 100 people, but many cases go undiagnosed.

I

f a coeliac eats gluten the lining of the small intestine becomes damaged reducing the coeliac's ability to absorb the nutrients from food. This can lead to various symptoms and complications if undiagnosed. It’s an autoimmune disease and it’s not contagious. The only treatment is adhering to a glutenfree diet for life after a positive diagnosis has been made.

Medicine or drugs are not required. In the small intestine there are small finger-like structures called villi which absorb the nutrients from food.

When the villi are damaged (or atrophic) they can no longer absorb nutrients properly.

Gluten is in bread, biscuits, cakes, pasta, beer, pizza and in many manufactured foods where gluten is contained in the ingredients such as soups, sauces, gravy, salad dressings, crisps, chocolate, sweets and ready-meals. Coeliacs have to think ahead if they want to eat at a restaurant, need to take extra time reading labels when shopping and need to take care in their personal food preparation to avoid crosscontamination with gluten. Even a grain of gluten can cause harm and cause diarrhoea and other symptoms which can last for several days.

Symptoms Symptoms start to occur when coeliac disease is triggered. Find out more about what causes the onset of coeliac disease.

Coeliacs can experience one or more of these problems: • Diarrhoea • Constipation • Weight loss • Chronic tiredness • Anaemia • Failure to thrive in children

• Chronic mouth ulcers • Stomach pain and bloating • Indigestion • Bone pain • Moodiness or depression • Infertility • Recurrent miscarriages • Also flatulence, nausea, vomiting and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can indicate a need to be tested.

Symptoms vary from person to person and may be constant or only occur from time to time.

Some people will experience an itchy rash which can be caused by an associated condition called Dermatitis Herpetiformis.

Getting Diagnosed The first step towards diagnosis is a blood test. Following a positive blood test, the most conclusive way to diagnose coeliac disease is by taking a biopsy from the small intestine.

It is important to be on a gluten containing diet before testing in order to ensure the most accurate result. Four slices of ordinary bread a day for six weeks or more should be sufficient.

It is important not to self diagnose. A life long gluten-free diet is a big commitment which should only be undertaken if necessary. An official diagnosis is required to take advantage of the financial support available.

Blood tests Your GP can take a blood test for antibodies - Immunoglobulin A (IgA) anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies(IgA tTGA) and antiendomysial antibodies (IgA EMA).

If results show raised tTG or positive EMA then you should be referred to a consultant gastroenterologist for a biopsy.

Bear in mind that negative

Page 20 Mature Living February 2014

screening blood tests do not always exclude coeliac disease, as a small minority of coeliacs may also have IgA deficiency and the screening test results will be misleading. In children under the age of three the blood tests can be particularly unreliable.

There are some do it yourself test blood test kits available from abroad. The Coeliac Society recommend that you have a blood test organised by your doctor.

Treatment of the small intestine with corticosteroids temporarily if the inflammation is severe.

Taking dietary supplements if nutritional deficiencies are found.

However once the small intestine heals there should be no need for dietary supplements if your diet is well-balanced and nourishing. You should ask to see a dietitian to help you get started on a glutenfree diet which includes all the nutrients you need.

Biopsy The biopsy procedure is called an upper gastro-intestinal endoscopy or oesophagastroduodenoscopy (OGD). A gastroscope (a small tube) is passed through the mouth and down into the duodenum or jejunum. A very small piece of tissue is taken from the wall of the intestine. The tissue is examined under a microscope to check for damage to the villi.

Eating The Coeliac Society is here to help you stick to your gluten-free diet.

There are plenty of foods that are naturally gluten-free and the range of specialised gluten-free products is growing all the time.

Have a look at the choosing food section of this website for more information.

Having the Biopsy The biopsy is usually carried out in an outpatient clinic. You will be asked to fast overnight beforehand and the procedure itself takes 10 – 15 minutes (excluding waiting and preparation time). In adults it is usually carried out under light sedation, children are given a general anaesthetic. There is no pain when the biopsy is taken.

Treatment After Diagnosis As soon as you start your glutenfree diet you should begin to feel better very quickly through your gut may take a little longer to fully recover. However, this condition is life-long and you will not grow out of it, as was believed in the past. A gluten-free diet for life is the primary treatment and there is no cure at present.

Other treatments may include:

Recovery Symptoms usually improve within a few weeks of starting a glutenfree diet, however blood test results and biopsy may not return to normal for one or two years.

Children usually recover faster than adults.

Follow up Initially you should follow up with your doctor every 6 months. Your doctor will repeat the blood tests to ensure that the gluten-free diet has been effective. After your antibodies have returned to normal a further biopsy can be carried out to check that the small intestine has healed.

If your blood test and/or biopsy results show that you are responding well to the gluten-free diet it is important to stick to it. If you eat gluten your small intestine will become damaged again and your symptoms will return.

Genes A clear link exists between coeliac disease and certain tissue types, e.g. HLA DQ2. This means coeliac disease runs in families. HLA markers are found on white blood cells (an important part of the immune system) and have similarities to other markers found on red blood cells which are used to distinguish between blood groups. So far research has not identified a specific gene responsible for susceptibility to coeliac disease.

If coeliac disease exists in a family there’s about a one in ten chance for other members the family to develop coeliac disease. It’s important that all family members get tested even if they have no symptoms. It is possible to have coeliac disease without symptoms and it is damaging to your health if it goes undiagnosed and untreated. Other family members should not go on to a gluten-free diet without a proper diagnosis.

Triggers Several types of event have been implicated with the onset of coeliac disease: viral infections introduction of gluten during weaning (too much or too early).

The scientific community does not yet fully understand the processes that lead to coeliac disease.

Prevalence In the 1970s studies performed in Galway based on a positive biopsy result for coeliac disease showed the prevalence to be about 1 in 300 of the population of Co Galway, which was much higher than any other documented study.

It is felt that in most Caucasian populations the prevalence is nearer 1 in 100 although biopsy confirmation is lacking in many studies. Many cases of coeliac disease go undiagnosed.

Health

Gluten-Free Living Ireland has one of the highest prevalence of Coeliac Disease in the world. As a result, there is reasonably good awareness of the condition throughout the country. However it is still vital to be vigilant when shopping, eating out or visiting friends and family. Over the next couple of magazines we will cover all aspects of living with coeliac disease and following the gluten-free diet.

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he gluten-free diet means avoiding foods that contain wheat, barley, rye and oats. There's plenty of information available to help you to choose food successfully.

The Food List The Food List is indispensible for shopping. It’s a comprehensive list of suitable manufactured products on sale in Ireland and many members refer to it as their 'Coeliac Bible'.

Why you need it It’s not enough to just read labels checking for ingredients that contain gluten. Food can get cross-contaminated during the manufacturing process. The Food List team work with manufacturers and supermarkets investigating products to make sure they comply with the standards for ‘gluten-free’ and ‘very low gluten’ foods and that no crosscontamination is occurring during the manufacturing process.

Staying up to date The Food list is published once a year however products within

the list are subject to change so you need to stay on top of updates. Updates are issued on the website, through the monthly e-zine and on a recorded message that plays on the office phone after 6pm. As well as using the Food List always read labels as manufacturers may change ingredients without informing the society. The Food List also contains information on basic ingredients and vitamins and medication.

Watch Out There are some types of products which you may not realise could contain gluten. It is particularly important to read the label and check the Food List.

Gluten may be an ingredient in manufactured and processed foods where wheat flour or barley derivatives are commonly used as a processing aid or a binder, a filler or as a carrier for flavourings and spices. Some examples are listed below. Any ingredients containing gluten must be marked on the label.

Sausages, burgers and processed meat where flour

Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye (and countless food products like pasta that contain those grains)

may be used as a binder.

Cereals where the main ingredient may be gluten-free (eg corn flakes or rice cereals) but malt extract or malt flavourings, both based on barley, are used in the flavouring. Stock cubes, soy sauce, gravy, sauces and salad dressings where flour may be used as a thickener.

Crisps and flavoured snacks or nuts where wheat starch may be used in the flavourings or to ‘stick’ the flavourings on.

Sweets and chocolate bars where wheat flour or wheat starch is often used.

Processed cheese, processed yoghurts and grated cheese where a gluten-based ingredient may be used to thicken or separate.

Flours derived from gluten-free foods such as potato flour or rice flour may have crosscontamination problems.

Squashes or cordials which may contain barley.

Naturally gluten-free foods There are whole categories of foods that are naturally glutenfree. If you’re buying something in a packet or tin always read the label to make sure

something with gluten hasn't been added.

• Natural Raw Meat (fresh, smoked, frozen) • Natural Raw Fish (fresh, smoked, frozen) • Shellfish (fresh, frozen) • Fruit (fresh, frozen, tinned in syrup or natural juice) • Fresh herbs and plain individual spices • Dried beans, peas, lentils and pulses • Plain natural nuts and seeds • Eggs

• Dairy products including milk, cream, butter, natural yoghurt, natural cheese, crème fraiche • Pure oils and fats • Rice (all varieties of natural rice) Naturally gluten-free flours Please note that naturally gluten-free flours are not regulated in Republic of Ireland and can be contaminated with gluten during milling.

The flours listed below are naturally gluten-free however great care must be taken when purchasing these flours.

To ensure you are buying a brand that is not crosscontaminated, always check the Food List.

• Rice Flour • Brown Rice Flour • Polenta • Maize/Cornmeal • Buckwheat • Corn Starch • Potato Starch • Tapioca Starch • Soya Flour • Potato Flour • Chickpea/Gram Flour • Lentil Flour • Cassava • Quinoa • Millet • Chestnut Flour • Sorghum • Teff For further informsation contact Coeliac Society of Ireland, Carmichael House, 4 North Brunswick Street, Dublin 7 Tel: 01-872 1471 Email: info@coeliac.ie

Page 21 Mature Living February 2014

Fitness

Exercise & Longevity rules. It is about self-managing how you use your body, using it more and in different ways and focusing on the positive effects.

A specific exercise program can be part of your strategy, but that is not the primary focus.

N

eed another reason to get moving? Well, here are 14 rules to actively live by.

Regular exercise equals longevity. It’s not rocket science but it has been scientifically proven. According to Donald M. Vickery, MD, author of Live Young, Think Young, Be Young …

At Any Age, “We need to become more aware of how sedentary we have become and how that is affecting us.”

Adaptation to disuse is relentless, he adds. “It undermines our stamina and strength, and it makes us feel stiff and sluggish. Our body is designed to be active every day; we feel better when we are active.”

And the simple rewards of it all.

Vickery goes on to explain, “When we use our muscles or exercise our heart and lungs or stretch, it feels so good afterward. It is simply the best thing we can do for ourselves.”

So think active, says the good doctor. Here, his rules to active engagement.

Rules to Live By: Becoming More Active 1. A little goes a long way.

This is one of the most overlooked rules for reversing physical disuse. Every little bit of movement helps. Moderation is really the key because it can become a habit. Adaptations occur daily – so the key is being active daily. Just walking a little more, stretching a little, doing a few push-ups for upper body strength and doing some knee bends for lower body strength can make such a difference.

2. Use a strategy, rather than an exercise prescription, to become more active.

There are many different exercise prescriptions for losing weight, building muscle, improving your 10K run time and so on. We’re not endorsing any specific program but rather a strategy for life that leads to a new way of thinking about using your body and being active. The strategy is based on this set of

3. Have long-term goals for both health and fitness.

Health and fitness are both improved when we become more active or begin an exercise program. It’s never one or the other; health and fitness are linked to the same set of positive adaptations that make our body function more efficiently. Disuse undermines both health and fitness. Health and fitness have different measures and goals: health is related to the three megacauses [constricted circulation, metabolic madness and insidious inflammation] and disease processes, and fitness is about functioning, reserve capacity and quality of life. Take steps to improve both, knowing that whatever you do for one will help the other.

4. Seize the NEAT opportunities – adopt the principle of every opportunity.

Increasing non-exercise activity costs little in time or money or change. It’s an attitude about being active. As such it is the key to our new way of thinking:

embracing the concept that any increase in activity has health benefits. The “principle of every opportunity” means grasping every opportunity to be a little more active. Think active. And remember that starting an exercise program doesn’t give you a free pass to become less active in other parts of your life. NEAT [non-exercise activity thermogenesis, or all movement other than planned exercise] burns more calories and has health benefits beyond exercise.

5. Reducing inactivity is an easy way to become more active.

Differences in NEAT are largely a matter of time spent sitting or lying down. We sit more than ever, especially those who commute to desk jobs. Become aware of this time and find ways to break it up – this is the first step toward reducing inactivity.

We’ve become less active in other ways too – activities that we used to do but have given up (e.g., skiing, playing basketball), chores that we used to do but now hire out (e.g., cleaning gutters, painting the house), time spent on the computer, watching TV, driving and so on.

6. Pay attention to your posture and breathing.

How we stand, sit, walk, and breathe are habits that we develop over time. This is the heart of “use determines function.” Think of all of these functions in an old, frail person – the slumping posture, the slow

Page 22 Mature Living February 2014

gait, the shallow breathing.

They are all adaptations to a manner of use. Become aware of how you hold your body and how you are breathing in everything you do, whenever you think about it. This helps you focus on the present moment, which really is all we can control. Think tall, head pulled upward (as if on a string), shoulders back, abs slightly pulled in. Think deeper, slower breathing, feeling your stomach and ribs expand as your lungs fill completely. Make these habits.

The more you do them consciously, the sooner they will become subconscious behaviors.

Feel the sensation of relaxation and increased energy that result.

7. Walk with a purpose.

Our usual walking gait slows with age. This is another hallmark of “aging.” A slower “normal” walking gait usually means more weakness, less capacity and an increased risk for disability and disease.

Remember that our goal is strength. A simple way to promote strength is to walk like a younger person, sort of like you’re late for a meeting.

Combine walking with a purpose with deeper breathing and a taller, stronger posture.

8. Endurance, flexibility, strength … and the greatest of these is strength.

Anyone over age 50 grew up in the age of aerobics. There is no doubt that aerobic exercise is vital for cardiovascular health.

Fitness However, a funny thing happened on the way to the 21st century. The greatest challenges and opportunities switched to increasing strength, a proposition endorsed by no less an expert than Dr. Kenneth Cooper, the father of aerobics. This is not to say that endurance activities are no longer of value – quite the contrary. It only emphasizes the increasing importance of maintaining muscle mass and the vitality of muscle cells as we age.

Disuse raises havoc with them, just as they thrive on increased use.

Increasing overall strength is the key to a healthy metabolism, wellfunctioning joints, strong bones, and a greater capacity for work and fun. All of these are essential for a high quality of life in later years.

9. Distraction is the name of the game.

The great enemies of exercise are discomfort and boredom. Fun is the ideal solution, but distraction is probably a more practical and useful goal on a daily basis.

Diverting your attention away from the discomfort and boredom of exercise is the most successful approach to these problems.

Depending on the type of exercise you’re doing, reading, watching TV, listening to music or an audio book and having a partner to visit with are all effective ways to distract you and keep you going.

10. Safety does not depend on your doctor.

There is usually no need for a physical examination before increasing exercise or NEAT, assuming you take a very gradual approach. There are a few exceptions, however: • If you have no idea what your health status is. • If you’re having symptoms that you do not completely understand. • If you have other health concerns, have advanced disease or take multiple medications.

In these cases, it makes sense to talk to your doctor about your plans to see whether you should take any special precautions, especially if you’re thinking about a specific exercise program.

However, there’s seldom a need for an exercise stress test just to see whether you can safely become more active. There is more risk in remaining inactive than in becoming more active. Just don’t try to do too much too soon. Safety in exercise is best assured by following the self-managing approach – allowing your body to adapt to reasonable, simple goals of gradually increasing activity.

11. Find activities that you enjoy or at least distractions that you enjoy.

There are dozens of ways to become more active. Don’t listen to the “experts” who advocate one specific program. The “do it my way” approach is not supported by data and doesn’t make good

common sense either. We’re all different and we all have different interests and preferences.

More variety is better. It provides a wider range of stimuli to more muscle cells as well as brain cells, bone cells, and others. Ultimately, we do the things we enjoy, so the key is finding something you enjoy or at least distractions that you look forward to.

12. Listen to your body. It is more important to do what feels right than to do what someone else thinks you should do.

Coax your body into becoming more active rather than push it. If you allow your body to adapt gradually, you will get to the point where it will crave movement and stretching when you have been inactive for a while. Your body is meant to move; when it is awakened from its sedentary slumber, it will recall the good feelings of movement. Listen to your body – when you feel stiffness, it needs stretching; when you feel fatigue, it needs oxygen or aerobic exercise; when you feel weak, your muscles need strengthening; when you feel the pain of injury or the discomfort of illness, you need rest.

13 Time management is easier than you thought.

“Not enough time” is the No. 1 excuse for not being more active.

There’s a good reason for that – poor time management. Time for exercise or activity is easy to put off. Allocating time for exercise, however, becomes easier when we realize the payoffs – more energy and greater productivity, which actually saves time in the long run.

We’re able to accomplish more in less time, so we end up with more quality time. Besides, it doesn’t require a great time commitment to get great results. However, if you can’t get over the time barrier, focus on increasing NEAT. We all have time for that.

14 Don’t let the monitoring mess get to you.

We’ve got to measure progress because it keeps us going. Without progress, motivation fades. The question is what to measure. That depends on your priorities. If your goal is just to become more active, then measure your steps with a pedometer or the time you spend in certain activities (both active and inactive). If lowering blood pressure is a priority, then monitor it at home. If losing fat is the goal, then waist circumference, BMI or pants size can be measured. If fitness is the goal, then use measures of endurance and cardiovascular efficiency (e.g., heart rate, time and distance walked), strength (e.g., resistance, repetitions) and flexibility (e.g., stretching distance). A few simple measures will help you stay on track. And, they can show you how quickly you adapt to disuse when you become inactive for any reason.

Springing Fit into February… for the Over 50’s!!

by PJ Shankey

A

bout 12 years ago, when I was in my early 40’s and very overweight, I was in a coffee shop with a friend who was in his early 50’s, and more overweight than I, when a friend of my friend walked in, who was in worse shape than the two of us put together. I was shocked at just how unhealthy the other man appeared to be, and when I asked my friend, with some concern, had he got a health condition, I was even more shocked with his reply: “you’re a bit overweight now, but just wait till you reach your 50’s ...that’s life!” While we can’t expect to be elite athletes as we progress towards the autumn of our lives, we should at least aspire to be a healthy weight and to be ‘fit’. Let’s just take a moment to consider what exactly ‘fitness’ means? One definition according to Collins’ English dictionary is: “to be in good athletic or robust health”. One of the many benefits of fitness is helping to maintain a healthy weight.

Health researchers are now saying that the trick to a healthy weight is about 70% proper nutrition and 30% fitness. Here are some fitness facts to help you in your quest to become or stay fit; There are 3 components of fitness; STAMINA …. This is a measure of how you can continue exerting yourself without taking a break.

For example, when walking up a steep hill, do you have to stop frequently to take a breath? Most people may not realise that it’s actually possible to improve your stamina, or the capacity of your heart and lungs, by up to 300%! This can be done irrespective of age! It takes a little time, but the trick is to start slowly and to build up by about 10% per week. So for example, if you walk a mile in half an hour in week 1, try to do this in 27 minutes the following week, and so on, until you feel you can’t improve on this – and that’s when you’re at your aerobic fitness ‘peak’ for that activity.

STRENGTH…This is your capacity to exert force and it can be expressed in two ways; firstly, how much strength you can exert in one single action, or how many times you can repeat any given task, such as lifting a weight. This latter ability is known as ‘endurance’. You might want to lift your grandchildren but feel you don’t have the strength. Try starting by lifting a small bag of potatoes and add a few extra potatoes each week!

This will help build your strength, improve your metabolism, and help regulate your blood sugar levels – which in turn will help ward off diabetes type 2.

SUPPLENESS…(or flexibility). Being supple helps us to avoid injury, and the importance of suppleness becomes more significant the older we become, because recovery from accidents is much slower when we’re older. Being supple gives us agility, balance, and co-ordination, and is achieved by stretching, bending, and moving the joints through their full ranges of motion. Yoga and Pilates are very good ways to stay supple.

For those of us with arthritis, or other joint issues, swimming, and aqua-aerobics, in particular, are recommended because the water supports the body’s weight and takes the pressure off the joints.

To test how fit you are, try the following warmup exercises…

Warming up exercises are very important to get the body ready for exertion as they raise the heart rate, loosen the joints and help to prevent injuries. Before a gym workout is not the only time that you should ‘warm-up’, and many

competitive sports, such as tennis, and golf, have their own warm-up routines** (see below for website addresses showing videos of golf and tennis warm-up routines). Here are some good warm-up exercises:

Warming-up Exercises….

1) Cardio warm up – start by jogging on the spot for 2 minutes, then bring the knees up to touch the hands for 1 minute, and finish off by doing jumping jacks (stretch arms and legs fully either side, and back in again in a scissors-like movement).

2) Mobilise the joints’ squats ….stand with legs shoulder-width apart, clasp hands together in front of you and push out arms at shoulder height, until fully extended. While breathing in, push out your bottom as you lower yourself into a sitting position until your thighs are parallel with the floor. Then, while breathing out, push yourself back up to the original standing position, and repeat 10 times. This will mobilise your knee and hip joints - and is easier than it sounds!

3) Trunk rotation exercise ….stand with legs shoulder-width apart, fold arms to shoulder height, and without rotating your hips, rotate your head and arms to the left (ideally 90 degrees) and hold for 7 seconds, then rotate back to the centre, then to the right, and repeat 10 times.

4) Stretches Hamstrings …stretch your left leg out fully in front of you, while leaning on the right leg until you feel the tension in the back of the left thigh (hamstring). Hold for 7 seconds then switch to the other leg. Repeat x 2.

Quads …..using a chair to support your left arm, lift your right foot behind as high as you can. Hold with your right hand for 7 seconds and try and feel the stretch in the front of your right thigh (quads).

Then switch to the other leg and repeat.

Calves… (back of lower leg)…. leaning forward with arms extended against a wall, and with toes pointing forward, extend your left leg while supporting your weight with your right leg. Hold for 7 seconds. (do not lock out the knee joint in the stretched leg) . Then switch to the right leg and repeat. Repeat x 2 Cooling down The best way to cool down is to bring the exertion level down gradually so the body has a chance to re-adjust to a state of rest. This can be achieved by a gentle jog for a couple of minutes resolving into a brisk walk, to a casual walk, followed by a set of post work out stretches (hold these for 20 seconds each). This will help stop blood pooling in the lower legs and help clear out toxins from the blood stream.

Good News!! All of these exercises are very suitable for anyone age 50+, as long as you have no pre-existing injuries or problems. However, do take it slowly until you build up your fitness levels and if you are not a tennis player, golfer, or gym enthusiast, then why not try the warm-up exercises above for 15-30 minute sessions as your daily exercise routine. One of the questions in our game, Salubria The Health Game, reports that the WHO (World Health Organisation) advises a minimum of 30 minutes physical activity per day for adults – so let’s spring into Fitness for February and beyond!

Good luck!

Pat (PJ) Shankey is a qualified Fitness Instructor and is available for private consultations on a one-to-one basis, Tel: 086-1960-341/01-2828718. or email: salubriathehealthgame@gmail.com.

Page 23 Mature Living February 2014

Memories

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The Bands of our Showband Era

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

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 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!

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

Hi-Lows Band Feature (1961 - 1978) - The Story

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he story of the Hi-Lows showband starts around 1960. Brothers Des and John Tighe, from Rooskey, Co. Roscommon, were playing on the local scene, best known for their involvement in traditional music's Ceoltas Ceoltoiri Eireann. Around this same time, Carrick-On-Shannon's Savoy Swing Seven were enjoying regional success as one of the top showbands in the Northwest. However, a sudden split in the Savoy created a major headache for bandleader, John Healy, when he did not have a full line-up for a gig in Strokestown, Co. Roscommon.

Knowing the reputation of the Tighe brothers who lived just up the road, John asked them to sit in with the band on the night. They did such a great job, they were invited to join the Savoy on a full time basis. Within a short time, the brothers had established themselves as "showband" musicians and were approached by Mickey Smith to join the Gowna, Co. Cavan-based Grafton Showband after the departure of Larry Cunningham to form the Mighty Avons in 1960. Des took up the offer, while John remained with the Savoy, although only for a short time and a few months later, he joined Des in the Grafton.

In 1961, the Grafton showband under went some changes, reorganised and became The Hi-Lows. The original line-up included John Tighe (RIP-guitar), Des Tighe (trombone), Pete Columb (vocals), Gerry Davis (RIP-bass), Joe Feeney (RIP-sax), Michael Smith (trumpet), Joe Hackett (RIP-drums) and Frank Melia (keyboards).

It was still the very early days of the showband era, so most of the band's gigs were limited to parochial halls and the older ballrooms which had been in service since the 40's and 50's.

Page 24 Mature Living February 2014

There were no single records being released by Irish bands at this point. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Des Tighe never gave up the "day job" but was a Primary School teacher for 40 years until his retirement in 2000. On the other hand, John was a professional musician as were many of the other lads in the band.

In 1964, Ian Corrigan succeeded Pete Columb on vocals. The next few years saw the band grow their reputation and travel further and further afield as the showband era finally took off and new halls and ballrooms were being built around the country.

In early 1968, Ian Corrigan left the band and would eventually end up fronting the Casino Showband. The Casino would end up donning war paint and marched into showband history as the The Indians, still on the road today, approaching 45 years together. For a time, John, who had always sang a major portion of the band's programme, took over the lead vocal spot, switching from lead to rhythm guitar.

In May, 1968, they ventured into the recording studio for the first time and released their first original single, Maureen Alanna (written by the Tighe brothers), which featured John on vocals. By a strange twist of fate, the record was released on King Records, the label managed at the time by Larry Cunningham, whom they had "replaced" in the Grafton Showband so many years earlier. Although none of their first three singles made the Irish charts, they helped establish the band as more than just a regional favourite and the band was now travelling the length and breadth of the country.

Other musicians who played with the band during the 1960's were Sean Kenny (RIP-guitar), Ernie McCarthy (sax), Frank McKenna (guitar) and Tony Tracey (RIPguitar). In early 1969, Sean Kenny (RIP) was actually about to emigrate to Scotland when Mickey Smith and John Tighe tracked him down (at Dublin Airport we're told) and persuaded him to change his mind and join the band.

1969 and 1970 saw the release of two more singles, The Green Dog (written

by Jet Calders and Des Tighe) and Silver Threads Among The Gold, both featuring John. In late 1969, Gerry Reynolds came on board as the band's new lead singer. Around this time,

the major split between pop and country music on the Irish scene was starting to take hold in a major way.

Bands like the Cotton Mill Boys, Hoot'nanny's and Smokey Mountain Ramblers, combined with the growing success of "Country and Irish" stars like Big Tom, Margo and Larry Cunningham, meant most bands that had previously tried to play it "down the middle" had to make a choice and the Hi-Lows went with country.

Des made the switch from playing trombone (a staple of the brass dominated showband era) to keyboards and fiddle (remember his traditional roots). With Gerry out front and the switch of genres, things started to happen for the band in the early 70's. In 1971, Michael Smith retired as manager of the band and for a short time, Des and John managed the band themselves. A few months later though, they were taken on by new manager, Frank Milton. The new country line-up featured Gerry Reynolds (RIP-vocals), Ronnie Creevy (guitar), Gerry Davis (RIP-bass), Jet Calders (drums), Des Tighe (keyboards, fiddle), John Tighe (RIP-guitar) and Michael Hughes (sax).

With Gerry making a name for himself as a front man, the band released One Hundred Children which entered the Irish Charts and became the band's only chart single, cracking the Irish Top Ten and reaching number eight in the summer of 1972.

The Hi-Lows had

Pictured left: Left to right: Oliver Flaherty (drums), John Tighe (guitar), Gerry Reynolds (bass/vocals), Margaret O’Rourke (vocals), Sean Sweeney (guitar) and Des Tighe (keyboards/fiddle)

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.

For such a small country, it is difficult to comprehend the sheer

All editorial and photographs are kindly supplied by Gerry Gallagher from www.irish-shownbands.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 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...

Top singles - 1965

managed something that had eluded many showbands, producing a chart single.

In late 1974, Frank Milton would step down as manager and the Tighe brothers took over the management of the band. Gerry and the Hi-Lows continued to grow in popularity. In December, 1976, the band took the major step of adding a female vocalist Left to right: Front row: John Tighe (guitar), Des Tighe (trombone), Pete to the lineup and Margaret O'Rourke Columb (vocals), Joe Feeney (sax), Gerry Davis (bass) Back row: joined Gerry fronting the band. A Michael Smith (trumpet), Joe Hackett (drums), Frank Melia (piano) short time later, Vincent Gill, who had played with and been During the 1970's, the Hi-Lows featured musicians managing the Royal (and then New) Blues, took like: Oliver Croghan (RIP-bass), Oliver Flaherty over the management of the band. New guitarist (drums), Tommy Kelly (guitar), Declan Nerney in the band was Declan Nerney, who would (guitar), Paddy Reilly (RIP-drums), Peter Reynolds later break out on his own (after stints with (guitar), Tommy Shanley (guitar), Sean Sweeney Gene Stuart and Brian Coll) to become one (guitar) and PJ Ward (drums). Throughout it all, of Ireland's top country stars today. though, the Tighe brothers remained the glue that held Declan's website reports he was only the band together.

16 when he joined the Hi-Lows.

Finally, at the end of 1978. after releasing the album, 1978 saw the release of the Gerry and Margaret decided to quit to form their own band's one and only album, The band.

The Hi-Lows played their final gigs in 1978 on Perfect Match, which featured Christmas Night and St. Stephen’s Night, in the Gerry and Margaret. The Cloudland, Rooskey and The House of Music in Cong, release followed their Co. Mayo respectively.

After nearly 20 years, Des and single, Stranger In My John decided to pack in the showband life and stay a Place, and was one of the little closer to home.

They formed a little group called few country albums Mixed Spice, with Paschal Flaherty on drums, and released by Polydor played the local pub scene.

Drummer Dermot Gray records (Cotton Mill arrived in 1979 and the band continued to gig until Country by the Cotton John’s untimely death in 2000.

Although not counted Mill Boys was the only among the greatest bands that ever played in the other title we can find and showband era, the Hi-Lows were representative of so that was in 1971). In many bands that laboured in the shadows of names like conjunction with the Dickie Rock and the Miami, Brendan Bowyer and the release, the band was featured on Royal, and Big Tom and the Mainliners. They provided solid entertainment and dancing pleasure to thousands the cover of of Irish people across several generations. Although the new they may never receive the accolades of their more publication famous peers, they still provided the backbone (along Entertainment with so many other bands) that made the era one of the News which was greatest the country has ever seen. published by the Our sincere thanks to Sharon Tighe-Mooney and Des Top Rank Tighe for their help with this feature. organisation.

Pictured Left: Top row: Gerry Davis (bass), Middle row: Des Tighe (trombone), Gerry Reynolds (vocals), John Tighe (guitar), Front row: Michael Hughes (sax), Jet Calders (drums) and Ronnie Creevy (guitar)

1. Brendan Bowyer & Royal Showband The Hucklebuck/ I Ran All the Way Home (HMV) 2. Dickie Rock & Miami - Every Step of the Way (Pye) 3. Butch Moore & Capitol Showband - Walking the Streets In the Rain (Pye) 4. Tom Dunphy & Royal Showband - If I Didn't Have A Dime (HMV) 5. Joe Dolan & Drifters - My Own Peculiar Way (Pye) 6. Brendan Bowyer & Royal Showband - Don't Lose Your Hucklebuck Shoes (HMV) 7. Brendan O'Brien & Dixies - I Love You More Today (Pye) 8. Dickie Rock & Miami - Wishing It Was You (Pye) 9. Butch Moore & Capitol Showband - Born To Be With You (Pye) 10. Larry Cunningham & Mighty Avons _ I Guess I'm Crazy (King) 11. Brendan Bowyer & Royal Showband The Wonder of You (HMV) 12. Joe Dolan & Drifters - I Love You More and More Every Day (Pye) 13. Tommy Drennan & Monarchs - Boolavogue (Ember) 14. Sonny Knowles & Pacific - No One Will Ever Know (Pye) 15. Dickie Rock & Miami - Around and Around (Pye) 16. Eileen Reid & Cadets - Are You Teasing Me (Pye) 17. Dickie Rock & Miami - Just For Old Time Sake (Pye) 18. Dickie Rock & Miami - I Left My Heart In San Francisco (Pye) 19. Eileen Reid & Cadets - Right Or Wrong (Pye) 20. Declan Ryan & Regal - I Need You (Emerald) 21. Butch Moore & Capitol Showband - So Many Ways (Pye) 22. Butch Moore & Capitol Showband - A Christmas Wish [EP] (Pye) 23. Brendan O'Brien & Dixies - Love Made A Fool (Pye) 24. Sonny Knowles & Pacific - We Could (Pye) 25. Clem Quinn & Miami - Buck's Polka (Pye) 26. Tony & Graduates - Kelly (King) 27. Art Supple & Victors - Showbands On Parade (Rex) 28. Larry Cunningham & Mighty Avons - Tribute To Jim Reeves (King) Page 25 Mature Living February 2014

Memories

T

The Bands of our Showband Era

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

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 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!

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

Hi-Lows Band Feature (1961 - 1978) - The Story

T

he story of the Hi-Lows showband starts around 1960. Brothers Des and John Tighe, from Rooskey, Co. Roscommon, were playing on the local scene, best known for their involvement in traditional music's Ceoltas Ceoltoiri Eireann. Around this same time, Carrick-On-Shannon's Savoy Swing Seven were enjoying regional success as one of the top showbands in the Northwest. However, a sudden split in the Savoy created a major headache for bandleader, John Healy, when he did not have a full line-up for a gig in Strokestown, Co. Roscommon.

Knowing the reputation of the Tighe brothers who lived just up the road, John asked them to sit in with the band on the night. They did such a great job, they were invited to join the Savoy on a full time basis. Within a short time, the brothers had established themselves as "showband" musicians and were approached by Mickey Smith to join the Gowna, Co. Cavan-based Grafton Showband after the departure of Larry Cunningham to form the Mighty Avons in 1960. Des took up the offer, while John remained with the Savoy, although only for a short time and a few months later, he joined Des in the Grafton.

In 1961, the Grafton showband under went some changes, reorganised and became The Hi-Lows. The original line-up included John Tighe (RIP-guitar), Des Tighe (trombone), Pete Columb (vocals), Gerry Davis (RIP-bass), Joe Feeney (RIP-sax), Michael Smith (trumpet), Joe Hackett (RIP-drums) and Frank Melia (keyboards).

It was still the very early days of the showband era, so most of the band's gigs were limited to parochial halls and the older ballrooms which had been in service since the 40's and 50's.

Page 24 Mature Living February 2014

There were no single records being released by Irish bands at this point. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Des Tighe never gave up the "day job" but was a Primary School teacher for 40 years until his retirement in 2000. On the other hand, John was a professional musician as were many of the other lads in the band.

In 1964, Ian Corrigan succeeded Pete Columb on vocals. The next few years saw the band grow their reputation and travel further and further afield as the showband era finally took off and new halls and ballrooms were being built around the country.

In early 1968, Ian Corrigan left the band and would eventually end up fronting the Casino Showband. The Casino would end up donning war paint and marched into showband history as the The Indians, still on the road today, approaching 45 years together. For a time, John, who had always sang a major portion of the band's programme, took over the lead vocal spot, switching from lead to rhythm guitar.

In May, 1968, they ventured into the recording studio for the first time and released their first original single, Maureen Alanna (written by the Tighe brothers), which featured John on vocals. By a strange twist of fate, the record was released on King Records, the label managed at the time by Larry Cunningham, whom they had "replaced" in the Grafton Showband so many years earlier. Although none of their first three singles made the Irish charts, they helped establish the band as more than just a regional favourite and the band was now travelling the length and breadth of the country.

Other musicians who played with the band during the 1960's were Sean Kenny (RIP-guitar), Ernie McCarthy (sax), Frank McKenna (guitar) and Tony Tracey (RIPguitar). In early 1969, Sean Kenny (RIP) was actually about to emigrate to Scotland when Mickey Smith and John Tighe tracked him down (at Dublin Airport we're told) and persuaded him to change his mind and join the band.

1969 and 1970 saw the release of two more singles, The Green Dog (written

by Jet Calders and Des Tighe) and Silver Threads Among The Gold, both featuring John. In late 1969, Gerry Reynolds came on board as the band's new lead singer. Around this time,

the major split between pop and country music on the Irish scene was starting to take hold in a major way.

Bands like the Cotton Mill Boys, Hoot'nanny's and Smokey Mountain Ramblers, combined with the growing success of "Country and Irish" stars like Big Tom, Margo and Larry Cunningham, meant most bands that had previously tried to play it "down the middle" had to make a choice and the Hi-Lows went with country.

Des made the switch from playing trombone (a staple of the brass dominated showband era) to keyboards and fiddle (remember his traditional roots). With Gerry out front and the switch of genres, things started to happen for the band in the early 70's. In 1971, Michael Smith retired as manager of the band and for a short time, Des and John managed the band themselves. A few months later though, they were taken on by new manager, Frank Milton. The new country line-up featured Gerry Reynolds (RIP-vocals), Ronnie Creevy (guitar), Gerry Davis (RIP-bass), Jet Calders (drums), Des Tighe (keyboards, fiddle), John Tighe (RIP-guitar) and Michael Hughes (sax).

With Gerry making a name for himself as a front man, the band released One Hundred Children which entered the Irish Charts and became the band's only chart single, cracking the Irish Top Ten and reaching number eight in the summer of 1972.

The Hi-Lows had

Pictured left: Left to right: Oliver Flaherty (drums), John Tighe (guitar), Gerry Reynolds (bass/vocals), Margaret O’Rourke (vocals), Sean Sweeney (guitar) and Des Tighe (keyboards/fiddle)

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.

For such a small country, it is difficult to comprehend the sheer

All editorial and photographs are kindly supplied by Gerry Gallagher from www.irish-shownbands.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 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...

Top singles - 1965

managed something that had eluded many showbands, producing a chart single.

In late 1974, Frank Milton would step down as manager and the Tighe brothers took over the management of the band. Gerry and the Hi-Lows continued to grow in popularity. In December, 1976, the band took the major step of adding a female vocalist Left to right: Front row: John Tighe (guitar), Des Tighe (trombone), Pete to the lineup and Margaret O'Rourke Columb (vocals), Joe Feeney (sax), Gerry Davis (bass) Back row: joined Gerry fronting the band. A Michael Smith (trumpet), Joe Hackett (drums), Frank Melia (piano) short time later, Vincent Gill, who had played with and been During the 1970's, the Hi-Lows featured musicians managing the Royal (and then New) Blues, took like: Oliver Croghan (RIP-bass), Oliver Flaherty over the management of the band. New guitarist (drums), Tommy Kelly (guitar), Declan Nerney in the band was Declan Nerney, who would (guitar), Paddy Reilly (RIP-drums), Peter Reynolds later break out on his own (after stints with (guitar), Tommy Shanley (guitar), Sean Sweeney Gene Stuart and Brian Coll) to become one (guitar) and PJ Ward (drums). Throughout it all, of Ireland's top country stars today. though, the Tighe brothers remained the glue that held Declan's website reports he was only the band together.

16 when he joined the Hi-Lows.

Finally, at the end of 1978. after releasing the album, 1978 saw the release of the Gerry and Margaret decided to quit to form their own band's one and only album, The band.

The Hi-Lows played their final gigs in 1978 on Perfect Match, which featured Christmas Night and St. Stephen’s Night, in the Gerry and Margaret. The Cloudland, Rooskey and The House of Music in Cong, release followed their Co. Mayo respectively.

After nearly 20 years, Des and single, Stranger In My John decided to pack in the showband life and stay a Place, and was one of the little closer to home.

They formed a little group called few country albums Mixed Spice, with Paschal Flaherty on drums, and released by Polydor played the local pub scene.

Drummer Dermot Gray records (Cotton Mill arrived in 1979 and the band continued to gig until Country by the Cotton John’s untimely death in 2000.

Although not counted Mill Boys was the only among the greatest bands that ever played in the other title we can find and showband era, the Hi-Lows were representative of so that was in 1971). In many bands that laboured in the shadows of names like conjunction with the Dickie Rock and the Miami, Brendan Bowyer and the release, the band was featured on Royal, and Big Tom and the Mainliners. They provided solid entertainment and dancing pleasure to thousands the cover of of Irish people across several generations. Although the new they may never receive the accolades of their more publication famous peers, they still provided the backbone (along Entertainment with so many other bands) that made the era one of the News which was greatest the country has ever seen. published by the Our sincere thanks to Sharon Tighe-Mooney and Des Top Rank Tighe for their help with this feature. organisation.

Pictured Left: Top row: Gerry Davis (bass), Middle row: Des Tighe (trombone), Gerry Reynolds (vocals), John Tighe (guitar), Front row: Michael Hughes (sax), Jet Calders (drums) and Ronnie Creevy (guitar)

1. Brendan Bowyer & Royal Showband The Hucklebuck/ I Ran All the Way Home (HMV) 2. Dickie Rock & Miami - Every Step of the Way (Pye) 3. Butch Moore & Capitol Showband - Walking the Streets In the Rain (Pye) 4. Tom Dunphy & Royal Showband - If I Didn't Have A Dime (HMV) 5. Joe Dolan & Drifters - My Own Peculiar Way (Pye) 6. Brendan Bowyer & Royal Showband - Don't Lose Your Hucklebuck Shoes (HMV) 7. Brendan O'Brien & Dixies - I Love You More Today (Pye) 8. Dickie Rock & Miami - Wishing It Was You (Pye) 9. Butch Moore & Capitol Showband - Born To Be With You (Pye) 10. Larry Cunningham & Mighty Avons _ I Guess I'm Crazy (King) 11. Brendan Bowyer & Royal Showband The Wonder of You (HMV) 12. Joe Dolan & Drifters - I Love You More and More Every Day (Pye) 13. Tommy Drennan & Monarchs - Boolavogue (Ember) 14. Sonny Knowles & Pacific - No One Will Ever Know (Pye) 15. Dickie Rock & Miami - Around and Around (Pye) 16. Eileen Reid & Cadets - Are You Teasing Me (Pye) 17. Dickie Rock & Miami - Just For Old Time Sake (Pye) 18. Dickie Rock & Miami - I Left My Heart In San Francisco (Pye) 19. Eileen Reid & Cadets - Right Or Wrong (Pye) 20. Declan Ryan & Regal - I Need You (Emerald) 21. Butch Moore & Capitol Showband - So Many Ways (Pye) 22. Butch Moore & Capitol Showband - A Christmas Wish [EP] (Pye) 23. Brendan O'Brien & Dixies - Love Made A Fool (Pye) 24. Sonny Knowles & Pacific - We Could (Pye) 25. Clem Quinn & Miami - Buck's Polka (Pye) 26. Tony & Graduates - Kelly (King) 27. Art Supple & Victors - Showbands On Parade (Rex) 28. Larry Cunningham & Mighty Avons - Tribute To Jim Reeves (King) Page 25 Mature Living February 2014

Feature by Larina James

A glimpse into the past with a very special set of postcards

Patrick Herbert

J

AMES McConnell is a busy man on the evening I contact him. He is doing some work in a house that contains some very special photographs and postcards. On this Wednesday evening he allows me a fascinating glimpse into the life of his ancestors.

The obvious enthusiasm which James displays when speaking about his ancestors and the aforementioned photographs, make me want to delve a little deeper into this story which provides a rare opportunity to have a look at a part of social life in Ireland which I guess is largely forgotten.

James McConnell resides in the lovely town of Navan , Co Meath with his family. He has in his possession a wonderful collection of old postcards and photographs dating back to the late 1800’s, among them are those of his relatives Kate and Patrick Herbert.

The practice back then was to have your photograph taken professionally in a studio and made into a postcard, this practice continued right up to the 1920’s when more modern methods became popular. It is evident from the photographs that a lot of thought and

Kate Herbert

preparation went into the production of them. Clothes, hair style etc. would warrant meticulous detail as this might be the only chance to portray ones best image and of course they were a snapshot in time preserved for posterity. They are photographs from an era which had no modern methods of communication at its disposal and indeed travel would have been inconvenient and downright dangerous at times, so in order to encourage the art of dating and meeting prospective life partners usually the mother in the household would take her single sons or more commonly daughters to a professional photographer to have their photographs taken , these photographs in turn would be imposed onto postcards which could be posted on to family and friends and provide a valuable tool of communicatthe house"Wagrowiecion. They were especially welcome to family members who had emigrated and were living abroad for a long period of time.

One of the functions of the postcards was to check out partners for the McConnell family members one example being the lovely Kate Herbert who was the great aunt of James. As is evident from the photographs Kate and her family would have pulled out all the stops on the day the pictures were taken and no expense was spared in order to show Kate or her brother Patrick at their very best.

Confidence and poise are abundantly evident in these beautiful photographs and they hark back to a bygone era where the attention to detail and the quest for near perfection is very evident.

Kate Herbert was born in 1879 and Patrick who was Grandfather of James McConnell was born the following year in 1880. They were born in Churchtown near

Navan , Co Meath, the youngest children of thrice married George Herbert whose family were linen merchants at that time. Lots has changed since this period back in Navan but as mentioned earlier this method was also used to perhaps attract a potential partner, it allowed an opportunity for Kate and Patrick to maybe check out a romance or show an interest in a member of the opposite sex. Nowadays Facebook and Snap chat are widely accepted methods of communication but back in the Christina Herbert

Ireland of the late 1800’s Kate and Patrick Herbert had a viable, reliable and tasteful way of marketing themselves which has stood the test of time and today the quality and durability of the pictures is still evident. The message was sweetly subtle, the expression of an eye, the tilt of the head or the proud demeanour all added to the unspoken message that would hopefully issue an invitation to call for tea or maybe to the forthcoming dance . Today as I gaze at the

photo of Kate Herbert as a young woman it is indeed hardly surprising that she was inundated with such invites as according to Jame’s mother who is now aged 92, her niece Kate was known as the pheasant because of her great beauty, poise, confidence and style. This method of capturing a moment in time has indeed stood the test and as such provides a wonderful insight into one of the many avenues explored back then as an aid to romance and possible marriage.

Kate and Patrick’s descendants, teenagers , Jack, Brid and Sara McConnell have access to social media on a scale that would have been wholly unimaginable back in the life time of Kate and Patrick.

Facebook is used for every type of social interaction known to man and Snapchat produces a picture message that lasts for no longer than 5 seconds. The spontaneity and” ever ready” message that emanates from the media of today is all good and well but the handiwork of the photographer back in Navan during the late 1800’s surely bears testament to the sheer staying power of his work and that of his subjects Kate and Patrick Herbert. More than a century later they remain timeless proving in the words of James McConnell that a picture paints a thousand words.

Bridget Herbert

Dating & Relationships

Mature Dating means changing the way you think about what you want

F

or all the positive stories of long lost loves and happily married couples we print every month, we know that many are finding themselves back in the dating game for the first time in years.

While you would think your age would translate into mature dating experiences, many women (and men) find themselves reliving their teen years when it comes to the dating world.

Unreliability and confusion do not have to be a part of your dating-over-50 experience.

A lot of people who are dating in their 50s probably haven't dated since they were in their 20s-- they're paralyzed, they still have the old vision of themselves and the old vision of the boys they were dating,. We all mature -- most of us -- and this is the best time for anyone to date.

Though there are new realities to deal with if you're dating after 50 (illness, , sandwich generation concerns menopause or impotence), it shouldn't dampen your love life or make you settle for anyone less than who you deserve.

It's about undoing 35 years of thoughts, beliefs and truths that don't work anymore.

Relationship expert Lisa Palmer from a leading dating agency shared her six-step plan to help women start dating like a grownup. Tell us what you think of her advice -- and your own experiences dating after 50 -- in the comments below.

1. Fall in love with yourself.

If you find yourself dating again in your 50s, chances are a major life event -- whether it be divorce or losing your loved one - has given you quite the beating.

So before you rush out looking for love again, it's important to be ok with who you are, said Palmer. "It's about reacquainting yourself with who you are today and what value you hold in a partnership," she said. "A lot of people are still holding on to the old vision of themselves."

2. Getting past your list.

You know what Palmer is talking about. The internal list we all have that makes finding your perfect partner as hard as lassoing a unicorn. But holding on to that impossible list isn't fair to you or the men you date, Palmer said. Instead of focusing on things like appearance, the type of car he drives and "all the adjectives you've had since you were 24," she says, "really [figure] out the feelings you want to feel in a partnership and what that looks like in real life.

Women of maturity learn that there are so many different attributes of a man that count so much more."

past your limiting beliefs."

Palmer acknowledges that these beliefs can become as automatic as "blinking," but said it's a matter of first recognizing that those beliefs exist and working through why you feel that way.

"It's about being intellectual with your beliefs and realizing they aren't true," instead of being completely emotional, she said.

4. Casting the net.

"Make a plan of where and how you're going to meet the right men and how to get a date," Palmer advised. Whether it's

getting online (which is how Palmer met her husband), classes, or social meetups for post 50s, "get out of your house, because a lot of us do the same routine everyday at this point in our lives," she said. "We need to be proactive in going places where you're going to potentially meet eligible men."

Once you've reeled in a man of interest, there are a few things the mature woman dating over 50 needs to know.

"Men don't want to chase women," Palmer said, laughing.

"The whole Rules thing ... men in their 50s and 60s know what they want, they know how to get it, so they don't go for the hard to get stuff."

That doesn't mean you have to take the lead, Palmer said, but it does mean it's ok to show you're interested in the person. "Men love that," Palmer said. "They've been rejected since they were 14 years old at the dance. We think we have to deal with rejection, but they've had it 100 times worse. Compassion is the key to having an enjoyable time when you're dating. They're just like us and we're all people."

5. "Rendezvous to romance."

So you've fallen in love with yourself, created a more realistic and flexible list of the traits you'd like in a partner, broadened your social circle and got the date with a man you're attracted to... now what?

"On a first and second date you're not trying to figure out if you're going to marry him," Palmer said

with a chuckle. "You want to put your best foot forward and you want to show personality."

And putting your best foot forward means knowing what "baggage" needs to be checked at the door.

"You don't need to share about your kids who are ungrateful, your bankruptcy case from five years ago or your gout," Palmer said. "And never talk about exes or previous dates. Don't even go there."

6. "Should I stay or should I go?"

Fast forward to a future version of yourself who's a few dates in with this new man. You've reached the final step of dating like a grown-up: after all the self-reflection and open conversation "apply that to making the decision if they're still a good partner," Palmer said.

"Is he giving you the feelings that you've identified are important to you in your list? It's about getting that intellect back and making good choices."

If the person you've found continues to hit all the new and approved adult checkmarks you've made for yourself, great!

See how the relationship unfolds and revisit that list often. But if not, don't be afraid to start all over again.

"You're really special and you have a lot to give," Palmer said.

"The right man will totally dig it and the wrong man won't but that's ok."

It'll be easier this time around -now that you know how to date like a grown-up.

3. "I'm fabulous, so what's the damn problem?"

There's still more "me work" to be done when dating like a grown-up. There's still the matter of erasing "those recordings that play in your head about men and relationships," Palmer said. "'Men only want sex, men don't want relationships...' It's about getting

Page 27 Mature Living February 2014

Mental Health

How to Deal with a Depressed Spouse

Helping a depressed friend or family member Depression is a serious but treatable disorder that affects millions of people, from young to old and from all walks of life. It gets in the way of everyday life, causing tremendous pain, hurting not just those suffering from it, but also impacting everyone around them.

If someone you love is depressed, you may be experiencing any number of difficult emotions, including helplessness, frustration, anger, fear, guilt, and sadness. These feelings are all normal. It’s not easy dealing with a friend or family member’s depression. And if you don’t take care of yourself, it can become overwhelming.

That said, there are steps you can take to help your loved one.

Start by learning about depression and how to talk about it with your friend or family member. But as you reach out, don’t forget to look after your own emotional health. Thinking about your own needs is not an act of selfishness—it’s a necessity. Your emotional strength will allow you to provide the ongoing support your depressed friend or family member needs.

Understanding depression in a friend or family member: Depression is a serious condition. Don’t underestimate the seriousness of depression.

Depression drains a person’s energy, optimism, and motivation. Your depressed loved one can’t just “snap out of it” by sheer force of will.

The symptoms of depression aren’t personal. Depression makes it difficult for a person to connect on a deep emotional level with anyone, even the people he or she loves most. In addition, depressed people often say hurtful things and lash out in anger. Remember that this is the depression talking, not your loved one, so try not to take it personally.

Hiding the problem won’t make it go away. Don’t be an enabler.

It doesn’t help anyone involved if you are making excuses, covering up the problem, or lying for a friend or family member who is depressed. In fact, this may keep the depressed person from seeking treatment.

You can’t “fix” someone else’s depression. Don’t try to rescue your loved one from depression.

It’s not up to you to fix the problem, nor can you. You’re not to blame for your loved one’s depression or responsible for his or her happiness (or lack thereof). Ultimately, recovery is in the hands of the depressed person.

Is my friend or family member depressed?

Family and friends are often the first line of defense in the fight against depression. That’s why it’s important to understand the signs and symptoms of depression. You may notice the problem in a depressed loved one before he or she does, and your influence and concern can motivate that person to seek help.

Be concerned if your loved one...

Doesn’t seem to care about anything anymore.

Is uncharacteristically sad, irritable, short-tempered, critical, or moody.

Has lost interest in work, sex, hobbies, and other pleasurable activities.

Talks about feeling “helpless” or “hopeless.”

Expresses a bleak or negative outlook on life.

Frequently complains of aches and pains such as headaches, stomach problems, and back pain.

Complains of feeling tired and drained all the time.

Has withdrawn from friends, family, and other social activities.

Sleeps less than usual or oversleeps.

Eats more or less than usual, and has recently gained or lost weight.

Has become indecisive, forgetful, disorganized, and “out of it.”

Drinks more or abuses drugs, including prescription sleeping pills and painkillers.

How to talk to a loved one about depression Sometimes it is hard to know what to say when speaking to a loved one about depression. You might fear that if you bring up your worries he or she will get angry, feel insulted, or ignore your concerns. You may be unsure what questions to ask or how to be supportive.

If you don’t know where to start,

Page 28 Mature Living February 2014

the following suggestions may help. But remember that being a compassionate listener is much more important than giving advice. You don’t have to try to “fix” the person; you just have to be a good listener. Often, the simple act of talking to someone face to face can be an enormous help to someone suffering from depression. Encourage the depressed person to talk about his or her feelings, and be willing to listen without judgment.

Don’t expect a single conversation to be the end of it.

Depressed people tend to withdraw from others and isolate themselves. You may need to express your concern and willingness to listen over and over again. Be gentle, yet persistent.

Ways to start the conversation: I have been feeling concerned about you lately.

Recently, I have noticed some differences in you and wondered how you are doing.

I wanted to check in with you because you have seemed pretty down lately.

Questions you can ask: When did you begin feeling like this?

Did something happen that made you start feeling this way?

How can I best support you right now?

Have you thought about getting help?

Remember, being supportive involves offering encouragement and hope. Very often, this is a matter of talking to the person in language that he or she will understand and respond to while in a depressed mind frame.

What you can say that helps: You are not alone in this. I’m here for you.

You may not believe it now, but the way you’re feeling will change.

I may not be able to understand exactly how you feel, but I care about you and want to help.

When you want to give up, tell yourself you will hold on for just one more day, hour, minute — whatever you can manage.

You are important to me. Your life is important to me.

Tell me what I can do now to help you.

Avoid saying: It’s all in your head.

We all go through times like this.

Look on the bright side.

When a family member or friend suffers from depression, your support and encouragement can play an important role in his or her recovery. However, depression can also wear you down if you neglect your own needs. These guidelines can help you support a depressed person while maintaining your own emotional equilibrium.

You have so much to live for why do you want to die?

I can’t do anything about your situation.

Just snap out of it.

What’s wrong with you?

Shouldn’t you be better by now?

Adapted from: The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance Taking care of yourself while helping a depressed person There’s a natural impulse to want to fix the problems of people we love, but you can’t control a loved one’s depression.

You can, however, control how well you take care of yourself.

It’s just as important for you to stay healthy as it is for the depressed person to get treatment, so make your own well-being a priority.

Remember the advice of airline flight attendants: put on your own oxygen mask before you assist anyone else. In other words, make sure your own health and happiness are solid before you try to help someone who is depressed. You won’t do your friend or family member any good if you collapse under the pressure of trying to help.

When your own needs are taken care of, you’ll have the energy you need to lend a helping hand.

Tips for taking care of yourself Think of this challenging time like a marathon; you need extra sustenance to keep yourself going. The following ideas will help you keep your strength up as you support your loved one through depression treatment and recovery.

Speak up for yourself. You may be hesitant to speak out when the depressed person in your life upsets you or lets you down.

However, honest communication will actually help the relationship in the long run. If you’re suffering in silence and letting resentment build, your loved one will pick up on these negative emotions and feel even worse. Gently talk about how you’re feeling before pent-up emotions make it too hard to communicate with sensitivity.

Set boundaries. Of course you want to help, but you can only do so much. Your own health will suffer if you let your life be controlled by your loved one’s depression. You can’t be a caretaker round the clock without paying a psychological price. To avoid burnout and

resentment, set clear limits on what you are willing and able to do. You are not your loved one’s therapist, so don’t take on that responsibility.

Stay on track with your own life. While some changes in your daily routine may be unavoidable while caring for your friend or relative, do your best to keep appointments and plans with friends. If your depressed loved one is unable to go on an outing or trip you had planned, ask a friend to join you instead.

Seek support. You are NOT betraying your depressed relative or friend by turning to others for support. Joining a support group, talking to a counselor or clergyman, or confiding in a trusted friend will help you get through this tough time. You don’t need to go into detail about your loved one’s depression or betray confidences; instead focus on your emotions and what you are feeling. Make sure you can be totally honest with the person you turn to—no judging your emotions!

Encouraging a depressed person to get help Beating depression, one day at a time You can’t beat depression through sheer willpower, but you do have some control—even if your depression is severe and stubbornly persistent. The key to depression recovery is to start with a few small goals and slowly build from there. Feeling better takes time, but you can get there if you make positive choices for yourself each day and draw on the support of others.

While you can't control someone else’s recovery from depression, you can start by encouraging the depressed person to seek help.

Getting a depressed person into treatment can be difficult.

Depression saps energy and motivation, so even the act of making an appointment or finding a doctor can seem daunting. Depression also involves negative ways of thinking. The depressed person may believe that the situation is hopeless and treatment pointless. Because of these obstacles, getting your loved one to admit to the problem—and helping him or her see that it can be solved—is an essential step in depression recovery.

If your friend or family member resists getting help for depression: Suggest a general check-up with a physician. Your loved one may be less anxious about seeing a family doctor than a mental health professional. A regular doctor’s visit is actually a great option, since the doctor can rule out medical causes of depression. If the doctor diagnoses depression, he or she can refer your loved one to a psychiatrist or psychologist. Sometimes, this “professional” opinion makes all the difference.

Offer to help your depressed loved one find a doctor or therapist and go with them on the first visit.

Finding the right treatment provider can be difficult, and is often a trial-and-error process. For a depressed person already low on energy, it is a huge help to have assistance making calls and looking into the options.

Encourage the person to make a thorough list of symptoms and ailments to discuss with the doctor. You can even bring up things that you have noticed as an outside observer, such as, “You seem to feel much worse in the mornings,” or “You always get stomach pains before work.”

Supporting the depression treatment process One of the most important things you can do to help a friend or relative with depression is to give your unconditional love and support throughout the treatment process. This involves being compassionate and patient, which is not always easy when dealing with the negativity, hostility, and moodiness that go hand in hand with depression.

Provide whatever assistance the person needs (and is willing to accept).

Help your loved one make and keep appointments, research treatment options, and stay on schedule with any treatment prescribed.

Have realistic expectations.

It can be frustrating to watch a depressed friend or family member struggle, especially if progress is slow or stalled.

Having patience is important. Even with optimal treatment, recovery from depression doesn’t happen overnight.

Lead by example. Encourage your friend or family member to lead a healthier, mood-boosting lifestyle by

doing it yourself: maintain a positive outlook, eat better, avoid alcohol and drugs, exercise, and lean on others for support.

Encourage activity. Invite your loved one to join you in uplifting activities, like going to a funny movie or having dinner at a favorite restaurant. Exercise is especially helpful, so try to get your depressed loved one moving. Going on walks together is one of the easiest options. Be gently and lovingly persistent—don’t get discouraged or stop asking.

Pitch in when possible.

Seemingly small tasks can be hard for a depressed person to manage. Offer to help out with household responsibilities or chores, but only do what you can without getting burned out yourself!

The risk of suicide is real It may be hard to believe that the person you know and love would ever consider something as drastic as suicide, but a depressed person may not see any other way out. Depression clouds judgment and distorts thinking, causing a normally rational person to believe that death is the only way to end the pain he or she is feeling.

When someone is depressed, suicide is a very real danger.

It’s important to know the warning signs: Talking about suicide, dying, or harming oneself Preoccupation with death Expressing feelings of hopelessness or self-hate Acting in dangerous or selfdestructive ways Getting affairs in order and saying goodbye Seeking out pills, weapons, or other lethal objects Sudden sense of calm after a depression If you think a friend or family member might be considering suicide, talk to him or her about your concerns as soon as possible.

Many people feel uncomfortable bringing up the topic but it is one of the best things you can do for someone who is thinking about suicide. Talking openly about suicidal thoughts and feelings can save a person’s life, so speak up if you're concerned and seek professional help immediately!

Useful numbers The Samaratians 1850 609090 G.R.A.S.P Life O87 4188053 or O86 6824760 Stop Suicide 1850 211 877

Page 29 Mature Living February 2014

Mobility

Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability A

housing adaptation grant is available where changes need to be made to a home to make it suitable for a person with a physical, sensory or intellectual disability or mental health difficulty to live in.

The grant can help you to make

changes and adaptations to your home, for example, making it wheelchair-accessible, extending it to create more space, adding a ground-floor bathroom or toilet or a stairlift. In some cases, the provision of heating can be included, but only under certain

conditions. If you only require minor work, you can apply for the means-tested Mobility Aids Grant Scheme instead.

Changes in 2014 Changes to 3 housing grant schemes were announced in January 2014 and came into

effect immediately. The main changes to the Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability are: The maximum income threshold has been reduced to €60,000 (previously €65,000) The percentages of approved costs covered by the grant have been adjusted on a sliding scale (but the maximum grant stays at €30,000, or 95% of approved costs) Extension works will only qualify if no suitable cheaper option is feasible An occupational therapist must confirm that the works are fit for purpose and that they meet the applicant’s needs in the most economic way Income of all household members will now be included in the means test (though Carer’s Allowance should be disregarded) Applicants must prove that they have complied with the Local Property Tax The Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government is preparing revised guidelines for the 3 schemes.

Rules The grant can be paid to people in: Owner-occupied housing Houses being purchased from a local authority under the Tenant Purchase Scheme Private rented accommodation (the duration of your tenancy can affect grant approval) Accommodation provided under the voluntary housing Capital Assistance and Rental Subsidy schemes Accommodation occupied by persons living in communal residences Your application will be prioritised based on medical need. There are 3 priority levels: Priority 1: A person who is terminally ill or fully/mainly dependent on family or carer; or where alterations/adaptations would facilitate discharge from hospital or alleviate the need for hospitalisation in the future.

Priority 2: A person who is mobile but needs assistance washing, toilet facilities, bedroom etc; or where without

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Suitable for: • People with limited mobility • People who have had hip surgery • People with back aches

For details of your local stockist

Phone Noel: 087-9896948

Mobility €5,000 where the person with a disability (in respect of whom the grant is applied for) is being cared by a relative on a fulltime basis Proof of tax compliance If you get a grant of more than €10,000 you must have a valid Tax Clearance Certificate. If you intend to pay more than €650 to a contractor, you must get your contractor to submit their C2/Tax Clearance Certificate to the local authority.

You must also provide evidence that the Local Property Tax on the house has been paid. the alterations/adaptations the disabled person's ability to function independently would be hindered.

Priority 3: A person who is independent but requires special facilities to improve the quality of life, for example, separate bedroom or living space.

An occupational therapist's (OT) assessment will be required.

The local authority can arrange for an OT assessment, or you can hire an OT privately to carry out an assessment and recoup up to €200 as part of the total grant, up to the maximum you are entitled to.

Means test Your total household income is

assessed to find out if you qualify for the grant and the amount payable.

Household income is: Property owner's (or tenant's, in the case of private renting) and spouse's/partner's annual gross income in the previous tax year Income of any other adults living in the household - aged over 23 years (or over 18 and not in full-time education) The following is not taken into account when calculating your household income: €5,000 for each member of the household aged up to 18 years €5,000 for each member of the household aged between 18 and 23 years and in full-time education or on a SOLAS apprenticeship

by the grant, you may be able to get a local authority home improvement loan. If your house is less than 12 months old the grant will generally not exceed €14,500.

If you are a local authority tenant, the local authority will meet the entire cost of the works.

2013 rates The tables over the page show the rates of grant that applied up to the end of 2013. Full details of the 2014 rates will be available shortly.

Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability: up to end 2013, for houses over 12 months old.

Starting the work to adapt your home The grant will not be paid if you start work before the grant is approved. However, it is expected that the work will start within 6 months of your grant approval.

Rates Priority will be given to people on medical grounds. If your household income is less than €30,000 you may qualify for 95% of the cost of the works (up to the maximum grant amount of €30,000). The proportion of the costs to be grant-aided will be tapered from 95% down to 30%, depending on your income.

If you are unable to get a loan from a bank or building society to pay for the costs not covered

Home & Bathroom Adaptation for lesser-abled & elderly persons Mobility Care Ireland provides professional Home and Bathroom adaptations for the elderly and lesser abled.

Our services provided include; • Wet-rooms • Disabled bathroom • Grab-rails, • Stair hand rails • Easy access ramps • Consultation with occupational therapist, • Assistance with available grant applications.

As recommended by Clontarf Hospital and Occupational Therapy Dept.

Call today for a free consultation - Contact Tony: 085 1096863 www.mobilitycareireland.com • E-mail: mobilitycare77@gmail.com

Page 31 Mature Living February 2014

Puzzles Mobility

Breffni Mobility

B

reffni Mobility is a company set up over 10 years ago that specialise in providing top quality stairlifts to the Irish Market. We offer a professional and efficient service along with a vast range of stairlifts and wheelchair access lifts that are affordable, safe, comfortable and reliable which will help you get mobile once again.

If you are experiencing difficulty using your stairs you should consider installing a stairlift. There may be individual factors which determine which type of stairlift, or alternative equipment, best suits your needs. The decision to install a stairlift is sometimes a difficult one to take but when compared with the alternative of moving house, or living on one level of their house, many people have found a stairlift to be their much preferred option. The idea of selecting a stairlift and having it fitted may be daunting at first; however stairlifts can usually be fitted in a couple of hours. We at Breffni Mobility would advise an individual assessment before deciding which stairlift would suit you best.

The first thing you need to do is be sure that having a stairlift will make life easier for you. If getting up and down the stairs has become too much of a daily struggle, then you may wish to consider installing a stairlift.

Installing a stairlift is often the most practical and cost effective option, and it means less of a change to your

lifestyle, allowing you to carry on living independently in your own home. Once you have decided that a stairlift is the right option for you, it is important to choose the stairlift which will best suit your requirements. All of our home stair lifts are designed with safety, reliability and ease of use in mind. We supply and install a range of stair lifts to suit different users’ needs, and budgets too. Nowadays most stairlifts are battery operated, and automatically re-charge themselves whenever the lift is 'parked', either at the bottom or the top of the stairs.

There are two variations of stairlift, either 'Straight' or 'Curved', referring to the type of stairs you have in your home. So, for example if your stairs run in a straight line up you would need a Straight type of stairlift, but if there are bends or turns in your stairs then you would need a 'Curved' type of stairlift, that will run on rails that follow the bend. With a Breffni Mobility stair lift, you will have the peace of mind of knowing that your stair lift has been made by a respected company with a reputation for safety, reliability and innovation. All of this is backed up with a guarantee, so you can feel safe in the knowledge that, should you need any help with your stair lift, we will be here for you. See our different products - Curved - Otolift Sapphire stairlift, Otolift Ruby Stairlift, Straight - Acorn Stairlift, Jade Stairlift, Meditek Stairlift. Call us for details 087-122000

WE PRIDE OURSELVES ON OUR COMMITMENT TO OUR CUSTOMERS Breffni Mobility Provides a Professional Service that is Friendly, Great Value and Efficient Tel: 087-1215000 • 01-8257870 / 049-8548454 • info@breffnimobility.com • www.breaffymobility.com The main Otolift Dealer and other Brands in Ireland Page 46 Mature Living January 2012

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for just â‚Ź35 per year!

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We now offer a subscription service.

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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 â‚Ź35 (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.

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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.

I

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

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

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 foods lose their colloidal integrity. Uncooked foods

Page 34 Mature Living February 2014

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.

Gardening Feature Article

The Joy of Gardening with Grandchildren 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.

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.

A

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

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

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.

Gardening activities 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.

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.

Let them give a special name to a tree that can be their own.

They 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!”

Page 35 Mature Living February 2014

Puzzles

WIN!

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To be in with a chance of winning, simply Solve the puzzle in the usual way, then rearrange the letters to form the name of a celebrity.

Send the celebrity’s name along with your name, address and telephone number to us at the address below!

Puzzle Competition, Mature Living Magazine Leinster, NW Business Park, Sligo

Closing Date is March 1st 2014 Terms and Conditions Apply

Answers on page 42 Page 46 Mature Living January 2012

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.

• 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 nonshedding 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.

Siberian blue Kitten

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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 fourlegged 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 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.

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

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: • 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 pet-free 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.

Maltese Puppy

• Sphynx cats. With big ears and nearly bald bodies, these cats look eerily like felines straight out of 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

Page 37 Mature Living February 2014

Shirley

Shirley started her career aged three but retired from films in her twenties, going on to become a US diplomat

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ormer Hollywood child star Shirley Temple died this month at the age of 85. With her adorable charm and blonde curls, she was one of the most popular stars of the 1930s, in hit movies like Bright Eyes and Stand Up and Cheer. After retiring from films in 1950 at the age of 21, Temple returned to the spotlight as a politician and diplomat. Born in 1928, Temple soon became a major star after getting her first film role at the age of three. She accepted the Screen Actors Guild Awards life achievement award in 2006 Her singing, dancing and acting

won over fans worldwide. She was given a special juvenile Oscar in 1935, when she was just six years old. To this day, she is still the youngest person to receive an Academy Award.

With the nickname "America's little darling", she was ranked as Hollywood's biggest draw for four years running from 1935 to '38 in an annual poll of US cinema owners.

Her rendition of the song On the Good Ship Lollipop in the film Bright Eyes was among her most famous performances.

Her other films included Curly Top, The Littlest Rebel, Baby

At the 1935 Oscars, presenting Claudette Colbert with her Oscar the year after Shirley won the Academy Juvenile Award for her contribution to film

Page 38 Mature Living February 2014

Temple Take a Bow and Little Miss Marker.

She was such a hit that US president Franklin Delano Roosevelt dubbed her "Little Miss Miracle" for raising morale during the Great Depression and she was credited with helping save 20th Century Fox from bankruptcy.

Temple starred in a total of 43 feature films - but found it difficult to sustain her career in adulthood and left acting behind in 1950.

She continued to appear on television, but that work dried up and she eventually stepped away from the spotlight.

When she came back into the public eye, it was in a new guise.

Under her married name Shirley Temple Black, she ran as a Republican candidate for Congress in 1967 but lost.

Richard Nixon later appointed her as a member of the US delegation to the United Nations General Assembly before President Ford named her the US ambassador to Ghana in 1974.

In 1989, she was made the US ambassador to Czechoslovakia shortly before the fall of the country's Communist regime.

She considered her background in entertainment an asset to her political career. "Politicians are actors too, don't you think?" she once said.

In a statement announcing her death, her family said: "We salute her for a life of remarkable achievements as an actor, as a diplomat, and most importantly as our beloved mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother, and adored wife for 55 years of the late and much missed Charles Alden Black."

Stars paying tribute on Twitter included actress Whoopi Goldberg. "The Good Ship Lollypop has sailed today with Shirley Temple aboard," she wrote, describing her as a true one of a kind.

Film critic Leonard Maltin wrote: "One of the most talented and brightest stars in the world has gone to the sky. A genuine phenomenon.

SHIRLEY TEMPLE'S LIFE IN MOVIES Born at 9pm on 23 April 1928,

In the Blue Bird in 1940 Shirley Temple later joked: "Too late for dinner, and so I started life one meal behind. Ever since I've tried to make up for that loss."

Temple started dancing at Mrs Meglin's Dance Studio in Los Angeles aged three.

It was here, in 1931, that she was signed up a series of shorts that parodied famous films with all-child casts. She was paid $10

a day. Stand Up and Cheer was her first feature film in 1934.

A year later, aged six, she was the first recipient of a special juvenile Oscar. She holds the record as the youngest ever Oscar winner.

Her mother Gertrude did her hair for each movie. Every hairstyle had exactly 56 curls. Temple made 14 short films and 43 features during her acting career.

Starring alongside Henry Fonda, John Wayne and her husband John Agar in Fort Apache in 1948

Therapies

Health Benefits of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Today

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any people across the world use complementary and alternative medicine or "CAM" in addition to traditional or conventional treatments and therapies. In the United States alone, according to the National Centre for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), the most recently available survey data indicates that about 38% of all American adults use one form of CAM or another. In a recent joint study by researchers from UCLA and the University of California, San Diego, 75% of the medical

students surveyed reported that "conventional Western medicine would benefit by integrating more CAM therapies and ideas" into traditional medicine.

What is CAM? According to NCCAM and other experts in the field, CAM is defined as a broad range of "medical and health care systems, practices, and products...not generally considered part of conventional medicine."

Medical Doctors and Doctors of Osteopathy are among the health professionals you'll find in traditional medicine.

Physical therapists, psychologists, registered nurses, among others, are also important providers of traditional and conventional medicine.

But, many of these same providers today have enhanced their health care practices, offering a CAM portfolio of viable treatments and therapies.

Expanding the Boundaries of Conventional Medicine Today, the boundaries between CAM and conventional medicine are not absolute, and specific CAM practices have become increasingly accepted by the larger medical community.

Health care professionals

also use both conventional and CAM treatments, blurring the boundaries between traditional and CAM. This is especially the case as patients themselves have become increasingly sophisticated health care consumers, so much so that they ask important questions about their treatment options.

What Makes CAM Attractive Today?

Why is CAM growing increasingly popular? As health care costs soar and conventional treatments fail to produce intended results, more patients and their caregivers today seek kinder and gentler treatments and therapies to manage their diseases and health conditions, including pain. Patients and caregivers are increasingly tired of throwing pills at their medical problems, opting for alternatives that may produce the same health outcomes at a fraction of the cost and without the side effects of costly drugs and treatments.

CAM's Greatest Potential in Health Care Today CAM shows its greatest potential, it seems, when combined with conventional medicine.

For example, CAM allows patients to manage pain without resorting to prescription drugs that may be addictive or whose side effects pose problems for patients. Or, patients can manage the side effects of muchneeded cancer drugs with CAM treatments and therapies. Mindfulness meditation, yoga, and

acupuncture, among others, demonstrate the power of complementary and alternative therapies and treatments that capitalize on the mindbody connection. In the

years ahead, it will be exciting to see the results of renewed interest in CAM and efforts to combine traditional and CAM therapies and treatments.

Diadems Angel Light

I offer you insight in any area of your life from love life to finances, family life and work.

There is not an area of life where I have not been able to help and give what has often proven to be invaluable insights.

www.susanhughesmedium.com email: diademsangelight@gmail.com

Offering holistic therapy and offer Reiki treatments, Reiki workshops, Autogenic Training workshops and Mindfulness Meditation classes at affordable and competitive prices at two holistic therapy clinics in the heart of Dublin and Dun Laoghaire. Both clinics are conveniently located close to main bus routes and train stations.

Melanie Pelka is a certified and experienced Reiki therapist/teacher, Autogenic Training therapist/teacher and Mindfulness Meditation practitioner/teacher.

Appointments in Dun Laoghaire and Dublin 2 • Phone: 01-4302497 Mobile: 087 1319891 • E: info@dublinreiki.com W: www.dublinreiki.com Page 39 Mature Living February 2014

Health

Speaking Clearly ... and Slowly!

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. 015173900) can offer best advice and solutions to your hearing problems.

I

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

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

on the subject and some facts you may not be fully aware of.

We all enjoy getting together with 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

Page 40 Mature Living February 2014

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 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 gettogethers are enjoyable for everyone involved.

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!

Health

Is aging to blame for weight gain?

Is your aging metabolism to blame for "middle age spread"? We look at the cause of weight gain and what you can do about it.

Like it or not, our bodies are going to change as we age

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 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:

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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.

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 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

Exercise. Let’s start with the obvious: we need to get moving in order to burn calories and keep our 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 improved strength and endurance, and they’ll protect us from injury as well as support our joints.

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 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-than-healthy 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 2014

Motoring

How to reduce the perils of 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 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,

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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

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

in our regulated traffic system. It is a simple fact that most of the parking-lot vehicle mishaps involving damage to one or more vehicles go unreported to insurance companies. Drivers would rather come to an agreement on damage payment 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.

• 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

Page 42 Mature Living February 2014

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.

Travel Technology

Some of The Worst Inventions of our time...

Baby Cage

Parachute Jacket

In the 1930s, London nannies lacking space for their young ones resorted to the baby cage. It's exactly what it sounds like: a creepy wire contraption, patented in the U.S. in 1922, that lets you claim that space outside your city window for your infant. Risky? Maybe, but so convenient.

This "baby cage" was marketed for families living in tenements without easy access to outdoor spaces.

Suspended from the side of the building, the baby would have access to fresh air and sunlight through the cage's wire frame, and still have sufficient room to play with toys, according to a patent filed in 1922 by an Emma Read of Spokane, WA. The patent also notes that the cage could double as a place to sleep, with removable curtains working to prevent a draft.

Honestly, you can probably guess where this is going. Down. Fast. Designed in 1912 by German inventor Franz Reichelt, the parachute jacket had a high-profile unveiling when Reichelt wore one for a jump from the Eiffel Tower. It didn't deploy. Reichelt died.

Leaded Gasoline

Agent Orange

Pull in to the local gas station and every pump has something in common. "Unleaded" is the new craze. For nearly six decades, gasoline companies ignored the known dangers associated with lead to get rich. Tetraethyl lead boosted the octane levels in auto fuel, but there was speculation surrounding the safety of that decision from Day One. In the Nov. 10, 1924, issue of TIME, a report showed that 35 men at the Standard Oil Company of New Jersey had come down with an "occupational disease." Symptoms ranged from insomnia to low blood pressure, all at the hands of lead poisoning. The EPA completed a full phaseout of lead gasoline in 1986, ending the quest to trade steady health for steady sales.

A potent herbicide used from 1961 to 1971 in the Vietnam War, Agent Orange was designed to cut through Vietnam's thick canopy of foliage to reveal enemy troops beneath. While it succeeded, the price was high: exposure proved deadly to humans, causing cancers, birth defects and a slew of other disorders.

Some 21 million gallons of it were dumped on Vietnam, resulting in hundreds of thousands of injuries and birth defects to Vietnamese citizens. U.S. veterans faced exposure too; they received a $180 million settlement from its manufacturers in 1984.

Asbestos

CFCs

At first glance, asbestos appears to be a construction worker's confidant. It is a versatile mineral fiber that excels at absorption and can withstand the harshness of heat. But when floor tiles or roof shingles need to be repaired or replaced, asbestos morphs into a homeowner's headache. Those same strong fibers that drive a building's start can turn nasty during remodeling or demolition stages. Inhaling the toxic particles in that state causes asbestosis — a condition instigated by fibrosis in the lungs, sparking chest pain, shortness of breath, nail abnormalities, clubbing of fingers and other complications. With those factors in mind, the EPA issued a ruling on July 12, 1989, banning most asbestoscontaining products. But two years later, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans overturned that decision, leaving only some products on the banned list: flooring felt, rollboard and corrugated, commercial and specialty paper. When a substance makes its way into the federal government's Agency for Toxic Substances & Disease Registry, something was wrong to begin with.

Short for chlorofluorocarbons, CFCs are nasty chemical compounds that wreak havoc on the environment. Used in refrigeration units and aerosol cans, CFCs combine with atmospheric ozone, neutralizing the molecular compound and weakening the ozone layer, an important environmental barrier that protects the earth's surface from ultraviolet radiation from the sun. While increased regulation since the 1970s has diminished their use, CFCs can endure in the atmosphere for nearly a century, making this a very long-lived mistake.

Betamax Betamax wasn't so much a bad product as a lesson in marketing gone awry. The also-ran to VHS in the video-format wars, Betamax was pushed by Sony as a proprietary format in 1975 before it was completely ready, in a race to get manufacturers on board. But while Betamax could record up to an hour of video, VHS could record up to two hours. That slight advantage was enough for VHS to gain a foothold in the market, one it never relinquished. Betamax became a footnote.

Page 43 Mature Living February 2014

Mystical Guidance

Astro Agony with Fiona Faery - Psychic Medium

Need help? Psychic Medium Fiona Faery, provides psychic and spiritual guidance for your life. Tune into Fiona on The Late Lunch at www.lmfm.ie on the first Friday of every month for her live call in show. Fiona is based in Dundalk, Co. Louth where she gives private one to one sittings. Add Fiona Faery on Facebook or call 086-3736143, if you would like to book a private sitting.

FEELING BLUE

Q

Dear Fiona, I'm feeling low at the moment with the blues!

Do you see anything positive coming for me in the new year, as I could do with a lift right now!

Lydia, Co. Dublin.

A

Lydia it's time to clear the deadwood from your life. I feel you have one or two frenemies draining you at the moment.

You have such a good kind heart and you have a hard time saying no! Sadly, this does not leave much time for you. This year, strive to find that balance as you won't feel so taken for granted and unappreciated. The change you seek lies within you. Diet and fitness are key around you this year. The confidence you will gain from a new exercise regime will affect other areas in your life as you begin to put yourself first.

This year you need to trust your gut and follow your intuition for I feel it is leading you to much more positive people and influences. March will see you stepping back from a friendship that has become draining, July will see a very positive influence enter your life. This year will see you achieve your gaols and targets. It's time to give back to yourself. With determination and motivation there is nothing you won't achieve this year.

Q A

Will my Mother be ok?

Dear Fiona, Will my mother be ok? She has health issues & has had a very hard life in many ways but is the most loving & giving person I've ever truly known.

Cora Co. Louth.

Dear Cora, as I look at your mums cards there is a predominance of the colour green, this colour indicates healing coming around your mum and it also indicates the querant is a healer (that's you!). I keep seeing bloods around your mum and a surgery/issue around hip and knee. Your mums energy comes through as very positive, upbeat and plucky!! I don't feel she suffers fools and has an attitude of getting on with it! There is a lovely support network in your family as I get such love and warmth surrounding all of you. I don't see an end to her health problems as I see a lot of them are associated with her age but I do feel a balance this year. I feel you have a gorgeous connection to your angels and I see reiki or some modality of healing around you in the future.

Q

Hi Fiona, I have been writing for several years now and have self published a book. I would like to know will I ever be a successful published author as I am working on another book and I am hoping to get a

publisher.

Martin Co.Meath

A

The answer is yes Martin! You have the Devine timing card, which is the card of delays. Six to eight months from now I see a female literary agent showing interest in your work. I feel you need to find an agent and should submit your work as they will know how to represent you and the market your writing will suit. I also feel you should enter writing competitions and start to raise your profile as an up and coming writer. The creative expression card shows you have a natural talent and ability but it will be your inner determination and drive that will lead to success. I also feel you should submit your work to agents abroad as well as this country. Don't give up!

TORTURED TEENS

Q

Dear Fiona I'm very worried about my two kids at the moment, one of them is 21 and doesn't seem interested in doing anything and sits in his room all day, the other one is my daughter who hasn't slept since Christmas and I'm worried sick.

Although she reassures me she is ok apart from not being able to sleep. My husband says I'm too soft with them both, Is he right?

Jackie Co Laois

A

Firstly Jackie you are not soft at all! It does not matter what age

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our children are we will constantly worry about them, it's our duty as parents. I see your son as quite skilled or talented with computers and has an interest in gaming consoles.

The card I have picked for him indicates a course of study around March/April. I do feel this will be of great benefit to him. I feel he has become quite disillusioned and his method of withdrawing into his room is his way of showing the world he doesn't care. There needs to be more boundaries with him. As I feel you are threading on eggshells for fear of upsetting

him. This course will open doors for him as he will be interested in the content. You will notice the difference in his confidence and self esteem. It feels as if it is a plc based course with different modules. As I look into the cards for your daughter, I do feel there is an issue with friends, I keep hearing the expression two is company three is a crowd I also feel she should join a Zumba class or something with music as I feel she is connected with music and listens to her songs quite a lot. I also feel she is drinking a lot if caffeine or caffeine based drink

Head down Shoulders heavy Karma is a Woeful levy.

Words cut Sharper than A blade Happy memories Quickly fade.

This barren place Devoid of feeling The bitter pill Of truth for healing.

To swallow it Destroys the illusion The source of suffering & confusion.

Fragile body Bent not broken In time Will be thankful For being awoken But for now This bloodied pride Remorse for needless Tears I've cried Will slowly rise From the ashes Wipe the tears From soaken lashes.

Cradling the fragments Left of hope With just enough Strength to cope Rise as Phoenix Does from the flame Free from anger, hurt & blame ŠFiona Faery

SOULMATE

Q A

Hi Fiona, will I ever meet the girl of my dreams?

Darren Co.Dublin.

Dear Darren, as I look at your cards you are well overdue a loving relationship! I feel you still carry pain from your last relationship which has lead you to feel quite wary with women. I feel there is a girl around you that is a friend at the moment. I don't feel this is the person you will marry as you have a tendency to be the knight in shining armour. You need to strike a healthy balance. I see intense chemistry with this girl but I feel she can be quite fickle when it comes to commitment.

You are getting ready to settle down and I feel as a friendship this will last but as lovers it will be short lived. There is a second girl on the cards which you will meet in the autumn, she is not irish. She may also have a child from a previous relationship. You are very connected on a soul level and there is a great sense of fun about her. I see long conversations between you both and you are attracted to her kindness. She has fair hair and a very bubbly personality.

Sparks will fly when you meet and I see Facebook conversations. It won't be long before you two are an item.

Darren, the pain you have experienced with relationships will make you appreciate the love that is coming your way, know you are worthy of it.

which lead her to be quite lethargic in the mornings. I do feel there is an issue here with friends. I would also monitor her online activity, Facebook Twitter etc. I feel she shuts down each time you address the issue with her as you feel there maybe bullying, I feel you have a female family friend that she can confide in and will take the pressure of both of you. Both your son and daughter will come through this time, And so will you!

Send all your questions into Fiona - fiona@matureliving.ie

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