Mature Living Connacht

PROMOTING A HEALTHY & POSITIVE LIFESTYLE August 2015

From garden to table with Leonie Cornelius

The top 5 reasons most diets fail

The Bank of Mum & Dad: does this sound like your house?

Discover the Wild Atlantic Way

ISSN 2009-8367 (PRINT) ISSN 2009-8375 (ONLINE)

WIN A DONEGAL GOLDEN HOLIDAY FOR 4 Enter to WIN our Villa Rose Golden Holiday Package for yourself and up to 3 friends

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August 2015

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UMMER rolls on as we introduce our July/August edition of Mature Living. We appreciate all the favourable comments about our glossy cover and we will continue to enhance the quality of your monthly magazine. We also endeavour to enhance the quality of your Summer by continuing our series on the delights of the Wild Atlantic Way. In recent weeks it has been agony and ecstasy on the sporting field, depending on where you come from. On the GAA fields the victors and the vanquished go forward in search of either glory or consolation; but isn’t it wonderful to experience it all and the memories will endure.

Western rockers The Sawdoctors may be taking a rest after so many years at the top, but their musical legacy continues to endure. Their “funnyman”, Leo Moran, talks to Tara King about himself, his life in a business he loves and his quirky, humorous views on life in general. He can be aptly described as a legend among legends . . . and still performs with his fellow ‘doctor Anto in far-flung places. Also, according to the Tuam man, the ‘doctors may return again soon.

We all want to live longer and this month Mature Living pushes the boundaries a little by exploring the possibilities for Immortality. The records show clearly that people are living longer and, no matter what age we are few of us will admit to wanting to pack our bags just yet. We look at some of the most recent research in this area and some of the bold new drugs designed to slow the aging process. We also look at some natural ways to help extend our human lives.

Of course, eating the correct foods, dieting and exercise are all part of the equation but the failure rate for most diets is also very high. We take a look at the reasons so many diets fail. We also explore why keeping a pet can keep you young, healthy and fit in body and soul.

If this doesn’t work, of course, there’s always the option of DATING. Thanks to technology, healthier bodies and changing attitudes dating and forming relationship into the 50s, 60s and 70s is become more common. If you are thinking of taking this route and need some advice . . . turn to page 40. Also, if you are considering a wedding ENCORE there is something for you in this issue, also.

At any age financial problems can occur, but are you one of those seniors who find themselves having to support their grownup children continually, either through direct financial support or providing them with rent-free accommodation at home? It is enlightening to examine this issue and discover just how much the “Bank of Mum and Dad” contributes to the welfare of young (and not-so-young) adults in today’s society.

Just a sample of what’s on offer this month. We have, of course, our usual array of regular features. Enjoy the rest of the summer.

LAST MONTH’S COMPETITION WINNER Congratulations to Maura McCann from Connemara in Galway who is heading to the Twin Trees in Ballina for a breakaway.

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

News Mayo Dance School recreate 18th Century Country Cottage Leo Moran - The music and the messin’ Step-by-step, Overcoming Dental Phobia & Embarrassment Fashion Encore!

The top five reasons most diets fail From garden to table with Leonie Cornelius Discover the Wild Atlantic Way The best and worst holiday destinations for your heart health Hotel Breaks B&B Breakaways Immortality: The Longevity Trend Competition The Bands of our Showband era Cooking & Recipes: Sri Lanka Angelscopes Alternative Therapies Hotels Guide Services Directory Dating

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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

Passive smoking increases risk of stroke N on-smokers who are exposed to secondhand (passive) smoke have a 30% increased risk of suffering a stroke, a new study has found.

US researchers looked at almost 22,000 people aged 45 years and older.

Of these, almost one in four were non-smokers who had been exposed to secondhand smoke in the last year.

Any strokes that took place between April 2003 and March 2012 were assessed. The vast majority of strokes that did occur were found to be ischaemic, i.e. due to

a blockage of blood flow to the brain.

The study found that even after other stroke risk factors were taken into account, such as high blood pressure and heart disease, nonsmokers exposed to secondhand smoke had a 30% increased risk of suffering a stroke than those not exposed to passive smoke.

"Our findings suggest the possibility for adverse health outcomes such as stroke among nonsmokers exposed to secondhand smoke and add to the body of evidence supporting

stricter smoking regulations," the researchers from South Carolina said.

Details of these findings are published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine.

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Exercise benefits brains of older people

O

lder adults can improve their brain function by exercising more, a new study has found.

US researchers set out to determine the ideal amount of exercise required to experience benefits in the brain. They followed healthy adults aged 65 and older for a sixmonth period. None of the participants had any cognitive problems.

They were split into one of four groups. The first group were not involved in any monitored exercise. The second group was expected to undertake moderate exercise for 75 minutes per week, which is less than the weekly rec-

ommendation.

The third group undertook the recommended 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, while the last group undertook 225 minutes per week. The study found that all of those who exercised experienced some benefit. However, those who exercised more, experienced more benefits. This was especially true in the area of visual-spatial processing, which is the ability to perceive where objects are and how far apart they are from each other. Other areas which benefitted from exercise included the ability to focus and the ability to pay attention. "Basically,

the more exercise you did, the more benefit to the brain you saw.

Any aerobic exercise was good, and more is better," commented the lead researcher, Prof Jeffrey Burns, of the University of Kansas Medical Center. The findings also suggested that the intensity of the exercise mattered more than the duration.

"For improved brain function, the results suggest that it's not enough just to exercise more. You have to do it in a way that bumps up your overall fitness level," the researchers said.

Details of these findings are published in the journal, PLOS ONE.

No hike in Fair Deal contributions

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eople residing in nursing homes as part of the Fair Deal scheme will not be seeing a hike in the contributions they have to make, it has been announced.

The Fair Deal scheme provides financial assistance to those in need of nursing home care. Under the scheme, a person will make a contribution towards the cost of their care and the State will pay the balance. Essentially, the State will pay the shortfall between what someone can afford to pay and the actual cost of nursing home care.

Residents are asked to contribute 80% of their income. Over 22,600 people in need of long-term care currently avail of this scheme.

A review of it has been published by the Department of Health and while this review included the ‘future financing' of Fair Deal, the department has announced that the Government ‘has decided to make no changes in this area'.

This means that current and future residents who avail of the

Page 4 Mature Living

scheme will not be facing higher contributions than are currently paid.

The department said that in its first five years of operation, Fair Deal ‘has been judged as successful'.

However, the review has identified a number of ‘administrative improvements' that could be made to the scheme, such as developing the use of information technology and web-based systems, improving procedures used in the validation of financial information and making application materials easier to understand.

The review states that the scheme has been ‘an effective contributor' to the long-term care needs of older people, however it notes that a range of other supports are required to enable older people to stay living at home for longer, such as expanded community services.

"With any completely new scheme it makes sense to take stock after an initial period of bedding in. This is what we have now done. The re-

Have you been to see the cliffs at Sliabh League yet?

view shows an overwhelmingly positive picture of the scheme which meets a critical need in a very fair and transparent way," commented the Minister for Primary Care, Social Care and Mental Health, Kathleen Lynch.

However, she acknowledged the identification of ‘some things that require attention and adjustment'.

"This is to be expected and work will commence immediately on these areas, particularly those that can be addressed quickly on an administrative basis. Other issues, such as further emphasis on community care and the development of new models of residential care, will take longer but are also very important," Minister Lynch said.

The approved budget for Fair Deal in 2015 is €933 million, which will support 23,960 people in nursing home care by the end of the year.

The number of people availing of the scheme by the end of 2024 is expected to reach over 33,000, due to Ireland's ageing population.

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News

Renowned Dementia Care Expert and Author Launches New Book for

Home Instead Book Launch at Airfield House Dundrum. Photo Fennell Photography

L

ast month Dementia care expert, Molly Carpenter, officially launched her first book for Irish caregivers, 'Confidence to Care', at a book signing event in Airfield farm in Dundrum.

Molly's book was created to help Alzheimer's and dementia caregivers look after loved ones at home.

It combines personal stories with practical techniques drawn from caregiving experiences from family caregivers, professional caregivers and internationally recognised experts. The book also focuses on the most common issues associated with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias and helps family carers deal with caregiving situations they never thought they would have to face. Each chapter offers plenty of care approaches and prevention tips, and begin with a relevant and moving real-life family caregiver story.

The book launch and signing was hosted by Home Instead Senior Care, Ireland's largest home care provider. "Approximately 52% of the people we care for are living with Alzheimer's disease or a dementia. We spend a lot of our time not only helping the client remain

at home but also supporting the family caregiver in helping them feel confident in their role as caregiver and supporting them with expert advice and professional care services", says Ed Murphy, Founder and CEO of Home Instead Senior Care Ireland.

"One of our first experiences with Alzheimer's disease involved a client who refused to change her clothes. Marion insisted on wearing the same grey trousers every day, all day.

Eventually her caregiver bought her a duplicate pantsuit and that was all that was needed to encourage her to change into a fresh set of clothes.

It's simple tips like this that are included in the book everyday advice that make the caregiving experience slightly less daunting".

"Without understanding what triggers the behaviours associated with dementia, or knowing practical techniques to help counter them, it's easy for family caregivers to feel overwhelmed. But discovering simple tips can mean the difference between endless frustration and a positive care experience", continues Murphy.

About 44,000 people in

Ireland are living with Alzheimer's disease - a number that is expected to reach 104,000 by 2037.

There are over 50,000 family caregivers whose lives are affected as each day they care for a loved one that needs their support. As of this moment, there is no way to cure someone with Alzheimer's and care providers therefore encourage families to think of how to care, rather than cure their loved ones living with a dementia or Alzheimer's disease.

Speaking at the book launch, Molly Carpenter, author of Confidence to Care, shared some of her own personal caregiving insights: "Caring for a loved one suffering from Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia is challenging at best. In the beginning, taking care of that person will be maddening and frustrating and terrible. And frankly, you won't be very good at it. I wasn't at the start. So how do you stay in control but still allow your loved one to maintain dignity? My answer has turned more pragmatic over the years.

You do it by listening.

I've found the best caregivers are the ones who give themselves permission to enter into

the world of the person they're caring for. What that means is looking for signs - the life someone once led, their passions, daily routines, and memories, all still matter.

But now they are more important than ever.

At the heart of all caregiving is empathy. Not empathy in the way most people use the word, synonymous with sympathy, but empathy is the truest sense. Successful caregiving starts when you put yourself in someone else's shoes, when you learn to try and see what they see, and when you create a relationship based on respect and dignity", shares Molly Carpenter.

Confidence to Care also highlights the importance of the caring for the caregiver as well as caring for the person living with Alzheimer's or dementia. It also provides support in dealing with a range of dementia-related symptoms and behaviours such as: Aggression and anger Agitation and anxiety Bedtime struggles and sleep problems Confusion and memory loss Delusions False accusations and paranoia Medication mismanagement Mood changes Repetition Sexually inappropriate behaviour Social withdrawal Wandering All profits from this book will be donated to dementia-related organisations and causes.

The Irish edition of the book is available in paperback and Kindle edition from Amazon.co.uk.

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News

Mayo Dance School recreate 18th Century Country Cottage for Summer Show

T

he award winning Shelia Moffatt School of Irish Dancing and Atlantic Rhythm Productions have recreated an 18th Century Traditional Country Cottage in the grounds of Enniscoe House in Crossmolina for their summer show.

The show which is called 'Country Cottage' takes place every Wednesday night and features an Irish music, song and dance concert which features a host of award winning musicians and dancers which include the world champion dancers Lisa Lavelle and Stephen Gallagher.

The unique setting for the evening takes place inside the cottage in the cobbled courtyard of Enniscoe House which is one of Ireland's great

Georgian Manor Houses which was built in 1790. Visitors are transported back in time for the concert which is staged inside the cottage setting and features displays of Sean Nos dancing, which includes Barrell dancing and Brush dancing and is accompanied by a host of CCE Traditional Irish musicians and singers. Tony Hennigan from Mayo Manchester went along to visit the show and commented “I just love the setting for the show inside the cottage, you feel as though you are really inside an old Irish cottage sharing their hospitality and friendship. It is a very intimate setting and I would urge anyone coming to the concert to arrive early to have a walk around the

grounds as its in a spectacular rural setting which is nestled below the Nephin Mountain range and along the shore of Lough Conn.”

The first half of the show is a concert followed by Tea and home baked scones and cakes, the second half of the evening is an open seisiun where visitors will be invited to take to the floor in a range of social dancing or share their performing talents with the audience.

The weekly concert runs all through July and August and on Wednesday 5 August the evening has been selected to host the closing concert of the week long 2015 Mayo Manchester Tradfest. The Tradfest features over 500 performers from Mayo and Manchester who are staging 50 events in and around Ballina fron Friday 31 July to Wednesday 5 August. The closing concert will feature the award winning Fianna Phadraig Pipe Band along with Joe Keegan from the BBC TV series the Voice and Lawrence Hennigan from the Keegan Academy of Irish Dance.

Tickets are just seven Euros for Adults with children are just five Euros, the ticket includes the interval refreshments, to book individual tickets or discounted group bookings contact Shelia on 087 9364504 or 00353879364504 or email 087-9364504 sheliamoffatt72@gmail.com or visit www.moffattschoolofirishdancing.co m or www.mayomanchester.com

European holidaymakers still depend on printed travel documents

W

ith the European summer holiday season about to start, Canon Europe, worldleader in imaging solutions, reveals that despite 92% consumers researching holidays online, and a further 82% booking accommodation and 77% booking travel using the internet, an astonishing 93% of European holidaymakers still print out travel documents according to new European research.

The European research found that 71% consumers print out travel documents as a precautionary measure to overcome any technological issues or potential mix-ups further down the line, while more than half (51%) do so out of habit. According to the findings, German (75%) and British travellers (74%) are the most likely to print out

travel documents ‘just-incase’.

Of those who do print out travel documents, 87% refer to them over the course of their trip.

However, over half of all respondents (57%) choose to turn to social media and the web to source information on their destination while travelling, and just 10% actually use the information provided by their booking source (i.e. online travel agencies, booking operators etc.).

Philip Brady, head of Canon Ireland, said: “It’s clear that whilst European travellers have embraced digital for researching, comparing prices and booking holidays, they are still very dependent on printed travel documents.

Whether or not this is because of a lack of trust in the electronic systems used

by travel operators, or their own personal technology, there is a strong appetite for tangible printed documents as a reliable reference.” When asked what information holiday makers want readily available when travelling, the top five included: the address of the final destination (67%), a map of the destination (51%), directions to where they are staying (42%), public transportation directions to destination (31%) and key local addresses and numbers (28%). Brady continues: “The message to travel companies is clear; printed travel documents are still incredibly important to holidaymakers but the information they contain could be far more useful.

Rather than only providing details specific to the bookings or using

whitespace to deliver targeted banner ads that are often disregarded, businesses can add value to printed travel documents to extend and improve their customers’ experience, not just by giving them the information they need, but also the details they actually want to hand in a user and print friendly way, reducing the need for them to rely on the internet while abroad.

There is also an opportunity to fuse together the benefits of the internet with the reliability of print. Using selectable or customisable online documents that allow consumers to print out what’s relevant to them is a level of personalisation that demonstrates an understanding of customer needs and shows that they are at the heart of your business.”

Magdalene medical cards to be reissued

The HSE has been asked to reissue medical cards for women who were resident in certain institutions, including the Magdalene Laundries.

The request was made by the Minister for Primary Care, Social Care and Mental Health, Kathleen Lynch, after concerns were expressed that the cards in their current format ‘unnecessarily identified these women'.

The current cards state that the holder qualifies for health services as part of the Redress for Women Resident in Certain Institutions Act 2015. As a result, they identify card holders as having been former residents in these institutions.

According to Minister Lynch, ‘it was never intended to cause any offence or embarrassment by referring to the Act on the card'.

"However, I accept that by putting the full title of the Act on the card it identifies the holders in a way that is unnecessary. I am completely open to changing the title as it appears on the card if this is what the women want. It requires only a small amount of effort to correct this and I am happy to ensure that this happens," she commented.

She said that these cards are intended to ensure that eligible women ‘finally get access to much needed services'.

"I hope this puts to rest any concerns that have been raised. I will ask the HSE to make the required change and reissue cards in a more anonymised format," Minister Lynch ad

Age Action response to HIQA report Age Action has expressed concern at the number of notifications of injury and abuse contained in this morning’s report from HIQA of its nursing home inspection service. The organisation also said that more home supports would enable thousands of older people to avoid going into nursing homes.

Justin Moran, Head of Advocacy and Communications at Age Action, said: “We welcome the robust and independent monitoring that HIQA provides, but we are seriously concerned that there were more than 4,000 notifications of injury in 2014 – more than ten a day – and 357 allegations of abuse.

“We need to see improvements, as HIQA says in its report, in risk management and safer care for residents in nursing homes.”

HIQA defines such injuries as those requiring medical or hospital treatment. A total of 909 cases required admission to a hospital.

Mr Moran continued: “But there is a much bigger question to be asked. Why are so many Irish people in nursing homes in the first place? Figures published

by Alone last week indicate that the proportion of older people in nursing homes is 35 per cent greater than the EU average.

“Many older people need quality nursing home care, but thousands could be at home with their families and in their communities if the proper supports were provided. That’s what they want. It’s what the Government’s National Positive Ageing Strategy promises.

And it’s better value for money.

“The Government must reverse the cuts to home care services in October’s budget.”

Family Carer: the Essential Guide

Caregiving Tips from the Galway Pros:

8 Words of Advice

I

f you are a family caregiver, you play a vitally important role in the life of your ageing loved one— a role that can also be overwhelming, exhausting and sometimes thankless. As an encouragement for all of the good work you are doing, Home Instead Senior Care in Galway asked their professional CAREGiversS M to share their best advice with you. Here are eight of our favourites.

1. Take a break without

feeling guilty.

Maggie, a Home Instead CAREGiver from Oranmore, says, “The one thing I would advise a family caregiver is to allow themselves respite time, at least a couple times each month, without feeling guilty. A refreshed caregiver is a much better provider of care when they themselves have taken a much needed break.”

2. Helping your loved one look good can help them feel good, too.

Inverin CAREGiver Theresa says, “Washing their hair, getting a trim or a haircut can vastly improve how they feel and see themselves. Update their clothes as their size changes or they lose a lot of weight.”

3. Give them the freedom to forget.

CAREGiver Breda from Galway city says, “Do not assume your family member remembers even the simple parts of life they’ve always known. Do not

assume they like what they’ve always liked: music, television, current events, travel, past favourite foods, visiting in large groups of people. Do not assume they remember the person in church greeting them, or the neighbour next door, or even you. Allow them the space to remember and forget at their own pace.”

4. Call or visit regularly.

Loughrea CAREGiver Josie says, “In my years as a caregiver, I have found that most seniors who do not get out much usually experience loneliness.

Their phone seldom rings and the television is often left on all day for company.

They want to hear the sound of other voices but that doesn’t take the place of visiting with other people or spending time out in public.” Josie suggests setting a specific day and time each week to call, to give your loved one something to look forward to.

A simple letter or greeting card to let them know they are missed and loved can make their day and remind them that someone cares.

5. Allow them to change and accept when they do.

“Whether it’s a physical or behavioural difficulty, realize that it is okay that your loved

one is not the person you remember. Step back and realize the only way they can get peace is to let them be.” – Joan, Aughrim CAREGiver.

6. Never make them feel incapable, or say “no” outright.

Joan also advises, “Be considerate about things that may be embarrassing to them (e.g., helping them out of a wheelchair). Be as creative as you can be. If they’re confused about what is going on, ease the confusion by asking questions about their past and suggesting activities like going for a drive and pointing out all their favourite locations. Do what you can to make it feel like they weren’t denied anything.”

7. Be patient and respectful.

Clifden CAREGiver, Claire says: “Regardless of the reasons they need care, it is important to provide care to loved ones in ways that are respectful of their dignity and independence. You need to be patient.”

8. Accept help.

“You need to take care of yourself to take care of someone else. If people offer to help, accept the help.” – Claire

If you or a loved one require the care of a professional CAREGiver, or if you believe you have what it takes to become a Home Instead CAREGiver, please contact Home Instead Senior Care today on 091 384 160 or log on to HomeInstead.ie.

LEO

MORAN

Page 10 Mature Living

The music and the messin’

The Sawdoctors are a western musical phenomenon and have made waves in many places throughout the world.

Tara King caught up with the enigmatic Leo Moran to learn about some of his adventures with the famed rock band and his own life and influences. told that story at one of our gigs over there and one really serious person informed us that it was a federal offence for someone other than the postman to put something in a post-box. They didn’t find it funny at all!”

There may be something of a messer in Leo, but behind the Tuam wit and country banter is a gifted wordsmith with a love of French literature and poetry.

Had life on the road not taken off, he may just have been destined for a life of teaching French.

He explains, “I did the HDip, and my speciality was French. I always found it very easy to learn in school so I carried it on. I never lived in France, but I had an adequate grasp of the language. I also loved French literature; French poetry sounds so beautiful.”

B

ruce Springsteen tells a great story about how during the first flushes of fame, he decided to go to Graceland and hop the fence in a bid to meet his idol, Elvis.

Call it karma or good old

fashion divilment, but when two Saw Doctors, Leo Moran and Anthony Thistlethwaite, arrived in New Jersey last year, they decided a visit to chez Springsteen was definitely on the cards!

“Myself and Anto figured that because Bruce had done it to Elvis, then he couldn’t complain if we did it to him” Leo laughs.

“We didn’t hop a wall or anything like that, but we did leave our CD in his postbox. We

Prior to joining the Saw Doctors, Leo participated in a social employment scheme with Macnas which subsequently led to him enjoying his first foray in acting. The production, which he remembers very fondly, was a fully choreographed comedy football match. Their stage was a football pitch in Castlebar

right before the 1987 Connaught Final. Leo’s role in the event was somewhat challenging for a Galway man to have to take on!

“I was the centre half back for Mayo!” Leo laughs. “The bishop threw in the ball, which was actually a helium balloon so when the ball went up into the sky, it stayed going! Then one of the players got fouled and his mother came on with her handbag and started belting the player that fouled him. People who had just arrived at the venue didn’t know whether it was real or not because there was a lot going on, fellas pretending to fight with one another and the likes. There was a great stunt where one of the lads had his sleeve pulled as he went in for a point, but he was wearing a joke sleeve so when the other guy pulled it, it started to unravel. The bloody thing was 15 foot long so as he was running away with the ball, the other lad was just left standing there holding this unravelling sleeve! The whole production was brilliantly funny.”

Leo explains that the suspicions of the GAA top brass meant they never made it to the All-Ireland.

Page 11 Mature Living

“We always hoped it would be taken to Croke Park on AllIreland final day but I think the GAA were wary of what it was about. Some of the things in it were very funny and almost making a laugh of what happens on a football field so I don’t think they fully trusted the idea. What was brilliant about it though was that it was very ‘Macnas’! It brought art and theatre to where the ordinary people were.”

Page 12 Mature Living

When the time came for Leo to take to the road as a fullyfledged Saw Doctor, his parents did little to discourage him. Leo smiles as he recalls his mother’s words, “sure once he’s doing something he likes and he’s happy, let him at it!” .“That was always the attitude in our house,” he adds.

“We carried out the rehearsals in our house and a lot of it wasn’t very tuneful for a long time either, but we were

put up with and even encouraged I’d say! My father was also quite musical. He used to sing at mass, and on the odd occasion if he thought I wasn’t in the house, he’d be singing away to himself while he was shaving.”

There’s definitely a prominent music gene in the Moran DNA. Leo’s 24 year old son, Jimmy, is also a music lover and according to Leo, “a better guitarist than myself at this

stage!”

As we chat about his childhood and family, the conversation moves to the powerfully emotive song, ‘I Hope You Meet Again’, a ballad penned by Leo about his brother Frank, who tragically passed away before Leo was born.

Speaking fondly about the brother he sadly never got to meet, Leo describes him as “the real musician of the family.”

He adds, “Frank played the accordion and the tin whistle.

One day, when he was around 7 or 8, the All-Ireland was on television and he pointed at it and said “I want to play there”.

My parents said, “oh you want to play for Galway?”, and he said, “No no! I want to be in the band!” His favourite song at the time was ‘Rhythm of The Rain’.

He definitely would have been a great musician, no doubt about it.”

Frank’s death was the result of a very simple accident. He had hit his head and impacted upon the part that controlled the breathing. Leo says his mother never fully came to terms with losing her 8 year-old son.

“No, my mother never got over it. Mothers don’t. She talked about him sometimes.

Deep, deep down, she was heartbroken. I wrote ‘I Hope You Meet Again’ in the late eighties and when we recorded it and put it out there, a lot of people came up to say that something similar had happened in their family as well. It was a song that really resonated with people.”

Songs such as N17, and, I Useta Love Her are Irish classics; the kind guaranteed to prompt even the most stubborn of crowds into a fit of dancing.

Having played those songs thousands upon thousands of times over the years, however, do the ‘doctors now roll their eyes when the audience calls for another rendition of an old favourite?

“No way!” Leo replies. “Sure isn’t it a great compliment? A song is only a medium to connect with people, and those songs connected with people very well. The connection is what it’s about more so than the tool. When you start writing songs as a young fella, your ambition is to write a song that everybody will remember. That would be beyond your wildest dreams, so when it happens, how can you complain about it?”

When the band played in Australia back in 2010, it was their first time to perform there in 17 years. The reaction on the night bordered on hysterical.

Not much has changed in that regard. When the Saw Doctors took a break last year, Leo and his fellow band member Anthony decided to take to the

road as a duo. They toured Russia and even though the crowd couldn’t understand a word of what was being said or sung, they went crazy for the music.

“Russia was an amazing experience. It was like doing gigs without lyrics. All the words were of no use because the audience had very little English.

It was about being musical and theatrical. Anto went around the hall on his saxaphone, and there was a bit of clowning around, but all the gigs still worked because the music was the connection.”

Performing as a duo was a bit of a shock to the system for Leo and Anto as all the responsibilities for the tour fell into their hands. There was also the added uncertainty about whether or not their musical venture would work. As it turns out, their worries were unfounded as they ended up being invited back to every venue they played in.

“All we could do was just jump in at the deep end and see if it would work.” Leo explains.

“We didn’t know if it would, but we figured if it was going to work anywhere, it would be in America. The American audiences are very easy-going and forgiving! When myself and Anto went touring, it was a big adjustment. Being on a tour bus when you’re in a band is like being on a school tour but with alcohol. It’s so much fun. You’re with people you like and everyone knows how it works.

People think travelling by bus all the time is hard, but it’s an easy lifestyle. You travel overnight and you’re in a bed so you don’t even feel like you’re travelling. It wouldn’t matter to us whether the journey was two hours or ten, we would go to sleep and then wake up at the next venue. Half the time, we didn’t even need to know where we were going!”

He goes on, “When Anto and myself went touring though, we had no bus so we were doing all the driving ourselves! But we got to see all the roads and the bits in between. When we were travelling through America, we got to see so much of the beautiful countryside. When we’re on the tour bus, we wouldn’t see anything like that because we were always travelling through the night! I love travelling, so I really enjoyed getting to see the places properly.”

So can fans look forward to a return of the Saw Doctors or will the sabbatical be a lengthy one?

“No, we might start up again next year! You can be sure we’ll definitely be scheming up something!”

Leo and Anto will be playing Clare Island at the end of August.

Feature with Sonya Hamill of Blue Apple Dental - Irish Dentistry’s Dental Practice of the Year 2013

Step-by-step, Overcoming Dental Phobia & Embarrassment that first time, ask them about coming in on an earlier occasion for a look around, just so you are familiar with where you are going, and so you can get a better sense of whether it’s the right place for you. Some modern dental practices don’t feel like dental practices at all, and you may feel more comfortable in a non-clinical environment like this.

Could this be you?

“I’ve avoided going to the dentist for years. I’m shaking just speaking to you.”

Or this “I’m so embarrassed by my teeth I cover my mouth when I smile or speak to people.”

Or this “I know my teeth are in a bad way but I am petrified of having something done about them; just the thought of sitting in the chair makes me feel awful.”

Is it time to rid yourself of the fear and embarrassment, and gain back your dental comfort and confidence?

Anxiety about dentistry and your teeth can have a detrimental impact on your everyday life. If they have never experienced it, family and friends can find it very difficult to imagine how it can affect you each day: the discomfort, the embarrassment, the stress of knowing things are gradually getting worse but not really knowing what’s going on.

If you are ready to take the bull by the horns, just work through the following steps.

Step 1: Find a dental practice you feel will work for you. If you know of someone who gets on well with their dentist, in particular if they were ever anxious, ask them. If possible, look for a practice with expertise in treating people who are anxious. If they offer anxiety relieving treatments, such as sedation, this is a positive sign. When going by recommendation, ask for the specific dentist’s name, rather than just the practice, so you know you’ll be seeing the same person.

Step 4: Establish the facts. That first visit with the dentist can be a big step, but you need to understand that there is nothing you are going to show the dentist they have not seen before – regularly. It’s their job to help people with their teeth; and you are unique and special, but not unusual. The first visit should usually be just about finding out more and getting to know each other. The upside?

1. Today you will really know what is happening in your mouth, rather than what you fear might be going on. 2. You will have a set of steps for making things better, and so you have the tools in your hands for banishing your dental demons; you are in control. 3. Today you conquered a metaphorical mountain!

Step 5: The treatment – stepby-step carry it through.

Hopefully you have found a dentist who understands the anxiety surrounding this experience for you. If so, they will bear this in mind in the planning of your treatment – breaking it into stages you are comfortable with. You have options for minimising the anxiety, including the use of anxiety relieving medications which will put you into a

temporary state of deep relaxation. Make sure this is all planned in a way you are happy with from the beginning, so you have a clear plan to work through. By starting with simple treatments your confidence will grow quickly.

Getting on top of your dental health will have many benefits, including some you haven’t even thought of. Poor dental health can impact on your overall body health, playing a role in other illnesses, so the positives of becoming dentally fit will be multifactorial. Many patients we see in this situation find that overcoming their dental anxiety leads to greater confidence in other parts of their life too. And there is of course no doubting the feel good factor in having a confident, healthy smile.

Step 2: Make the call. Just take a deep breath and do it.

Tell them how you feel, and, if they sound like they understand you, make the appointment. If they don’t, no harm done, make another call – this is about you, not them, and you will find the right people. Don’t let anything put you off.

Step 3: Get into the dental practice. If the situation of being in the dental practice is a trigger for you, rather than just the dentistry, and you feel it’s going to be very challenging

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FASHION

that her guests be the ones to wear white.

Then there’s Tina Knowles, the mother of Beyoncé and Solange, married for the second time at age 61 and opted for traditional white, albeit, a slinky, sexy gown that had a thigh-high slit and was accessorized with a gold belt.

Of course, matrimonial-fashion trailblazers date further back. We need look no further than Elizabeth Taylor, a woman who knew a thing or two about repeat marriages – eight in total. But it was dress No. 5 in 1964 (her first of two marriages to Richard Burton) that remains the most iconic.

Fresh off a scandalous affair (both were married) while filming Cleopatra, they quietly married in Montreal, where Taylor wore a canary yellow chiffon outfit, accessorized with an emerald Bulgari brooch and a veritable bouquet of hyacinths and lilies in her hair Arguably, the most talked about second wedding and one that called for extreme understatement was Camilla Parker Bowles’ marriage to Prince Charles. She bore the added weight of Charles’ first wedding to Diana (not to mention her legacy) – a widely televised world event to be compared with.

However, the once most reviled woman in Britain deftly won over the nation looking radiant in a pale blue gown with an embroidered overcoat and a fantastic feathered creation by Philip Treacy crowning her head.

I

f you’re always a bride or getting married for the first time long after your blushing days are over, you might as well go all the way and break dated wedding dress rules.

You’ve been there and done the Big Fat Wedding and you might have even fulfilled the Princess Bride fantasy with a big poufy gown. But that marriage went the same way as the VCR, and now you’re about to do it again.

The question is what do you wear for an encore wedding?

While societal conventions once dictated second- or third-time brides (not to mention first-timers of a certain age) adhere to certain sartorial rules, like keep it understated and no white, today another trip down the aisle is one blooming with endless

possibilities. “Anything goes,” declares Jessica Mulroney, PR, marketing and events for Kleinfeld, one of the largest luxury bridal retailers in the world. “Bridal is so different today, and there is so much out there. As second marriages become more common, women are saying, ‘Why the heck not? I’ll do it better and bigger.’ ” In other words, when it comes to their encore weddings, brides are breaking all rules and traditional matrimonial conventions.

Take Tina Turner, who tied the knot in 2013 at age 73 to her long-time beau in Switzerland. She opted for an emerald green and black silk tulle gown by Giorgio Armani, which she wore with leggings. And she insisted

Closer to home, it’s easy to appreciate that less notorious mature brides would also want to try a different approach.

One of our readers from Claremorris is in the process of planning her second nuptials this summer. “My first one was very traditional and was basically planned by my mother. I was 28 years old, marrying my childhood sweetheart, and it was a church wedding with seven bridesmaids,” she says. “This time around I see it as a very adult, sophisticated party.”

After several visits to various bridal shops I've decided to go custom and have my dress made at the same place my sisters got theirs. It’s blush pink, fitted, backless and with cutouts at the side.

Another reader who had a commitment ceremony on the tropical island of Tobago with friends and family earlier this year, decided to wear a sari in honour of her partner’s Indian heritage and his parents. The colour was blue, a reflection of her love of the Caribbean sea.

The only rule she acknowledges when it comes to bridal attire is it should be age-appropriate. “As you get older, don’t try to emulate that young bride.” In other words, be true to yourself.

So, the answer to what does a second-time (or more) around bride wear? It’s anything she wants. “Why should it be less meaningful or less important to look a certain way?” adds Mulroney, who believes the second or third time around should be just as important if not more than the first. “It should be a celebration of love and that time in your life.”

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Health Matters

5

The top five reasons most diets fail

W

e’ve all been there.

Desperately wanting to lose those few extra pounds, or in some cases a lot of extra pounds, but no matter which diet we try we always seem to end up where we started from. It’s frustrating and demoralizing and it tastes like failure.

But it doesn’t have to be this way, says Dr. Yoni Freedhoff, an Ottawa-based obesity expert and the author of The Diet Fix: Why Diets Fail and How to Make Yours Work.

“If there was a quick fix we’d all be skinny,” he points out.

“The more permanent the weight loss needs to be the more permanent the lifestyle changes need to be.” So what’s

weight don’t deserve to eat like normal people or use food for comfort and celebration.

Instead they’re only supposed to use food for fuel and shut off the other normal uses. This doesn’t work.”

preventing us from getting there?

1. We think dieting has to be painful. “The past 60 to 80 years of modern day dieting has been predicated upon the notion that dieting success is about suffering,” says Dr. Freedhoff. “It suggests that people struggling with their

2. We under-eat. Trying to starve yourself into thinness doesn’t work either. “Hunger is a very powerful physiological force,” says the diet doctor.

“It’s second only to breathing for survival. To think we can fight 100 million years of evolution which has made our bodies really good at securing calories simply because we want to get into a particular clothing size is folly.”

3. We over-exercise. “People undertake exercise regimes that are truly ‘regimes’,” he says.

“People see these shows on TV where they suggest that exercise to the point of throwing up is desirable. Again, that is not a lifestyle – it’s a life sentence.” People also tend to overestimate the number of calories they’re burning, which can lead to frustration. “As a consequence, exercised-based approaches to weight management tend to get disappointing quite quickly,” he says. “That’s why gyms are busy in January and empty in March.”

4. We eat out too often and consume too much processed food. “We’ve been duped by the food industry and our own willingness to believe you can find health and weight loss in restaurants or boxes, but it doesn’t work that way,” he says. “We, as a society, seem to be using restaurants and processed foods like our grandparents used refrigerators and the produce drawers.” Dr.

Freedhoff says he sees far more people who eat out three to four times a week than he does people who eat out three to four times a month. That equates to weight loss woes.

“The calories we consume in restaurants are non-intuitive and astronomical in many cases.

That salad you order might have more calories than a person burns in an entire day.”

5. We don’t think about the calories we’re drinking. “People are usually aware that sugarsweetened beverages can be problematic but they don’t always think about the cream and sugar in their coffee,” he says. “And people really don’t like to think about alcohol because they enjoy it so much, but red wine has double the calories of Coca Cola and that’s something you can’t ignore if you’re trying to lose weight.”Best advice he can offer?

“Weight management, in general, needs to be about people striving to live the healthiest lives they can enjoy — and not the healthiest lives they can tolerate. They need to make lifestyle changes, that are significant and enjoyable, but not severe. And that can be challenging when you’ve got a society telling you they need to be severe to work.”

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Health Matters

Exercise may reverse bone loss in middle-aged men

M

en, too, lose bone mass as they age, making bones weaker and putting them at risk of breakage.

Nearly 2 million men in the U.S. have osteoporosis and 16 million more have low bone mass, reports the University of Missouri.

However, researchers there have found that certain types of weightlifting and jumping exercises, when completed for at least six months, improve bone density in active, healthy, middle-aged men with low bone mass. These exercises may help prevent osteoporosis by facilitating bone growth, according to the study published in the journal Bone.

“Weight-lifting programs exist to increase muscular strength, but less research has examined what happens to bones during these types of exercises,” said nutritional scientist and associate professor Pam Hinton.

“Our study is the first to show that exercise-based interventions work to increase bone density in middle-aged men with low bone mass who are otherwise healthy. These exercises could be prescribed to reverse bone loss associated with aging.”

Researchers studied 38 physically active, middle-aged men who completed either a weight-lifting program or a jumping program for a year.

Both programs required participants to complete 60-120 minutes of targeted exercises each week. The participants took calcium and vitamin D supplements throughout their training programs.

The researchers measured the men’s

bone mass at the beginning of the study and again at six and 12 months using specialized X-ray scans of the whole body, hip and lumbar spine.

The researchers found the bone mass of the whole body and lumbar spine significantly increased after six months of completing the weightlifting or jumping programs, and this increase was maintained at 12 months. Hip-bone density only increased among those who completed the weight-lifting program.

Hinton said the study results do not indicate that all kinds of weight lifting will help improve bone mass; rather, targeted exercises made the training programs effective.

“Only the bone experiencing the mechanical load is going to get

stronger, so we specifically chose exercises that would load the hip and the spine, which is why we had participants do squats, deadlifts, lunges and the overhead press,” Hinton said. “Also, the intensity of the loading needs to increase over time to build strength. Both of the training programs gradually increased in intensity, and our participants also had rest weeks. Bones need to rest to continue to maximize the response.”

Throughout their training programs, participants rated pain and fatigue after completing their exercises. The participants reported minimal pain and fatigue, and these ratings decreased over the year.

Hinton said individuals who want to use similar training programs to improve bone density should consider their current activity levels and exercise preferences as well as time and equipment constraints.

“Individuals don’t typically have to know they have heart disease, high blood pressure or pre-diabetes to start exercising – they do it as prevention,” Hinton said. “Similarly, individuals don’t have to know they have osteoporosis to start lifting weights. The interventions we studied are effective, safe and take 60-120 minutes per week to complete, which is feasible for most people. Also, the exercises can be done at home and require minimal exercise equipment, which adds to the ease of implementing and continuing these interventions.”

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Vitamin C shown to reduce heart and stroke risk

Stock up on those sweet peppers. papaya and strawberries.

They’re some of the foods highest in vitamin C and there’s new evidence that high vitamin C concentrations in the blood from eating fruit and vegetables are associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and early death.

New research from the University of Copenhagen shows that the risk of cardiovascular disease and early death falls with a high intake of fruit and vegetables, and that this may be due to vitamin C. The study by University of Copenhagen researchers was published this week in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

The study analyzed data about 100,000 Danes and their intake of fruit and vegetables as well as their DNA. “We can see that those with the highest intake of fruit and vegetables have a 15 per cent lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease and a 20 per cent lower risk of early death compared with those who very rarely eat fruit and vegetables. At the same time, we can see that the reduced risk is related to high vitamin C concentrations in the blood from the fruit and vegetables,” says study author Dr. Camilla Kobylecki.

Among other things, vitamin C helps build connective tissue which supports and connects different types of tissues and organs in the body.

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant which protects against the damage to cells that causes disease including cardiovascular disease.

“You can get vitamin C supplements, but it is a good idea to get your vitamin C by eating a healthy diet, which will at the same time help you to develop a healthier lifestyle in the long term, for the general benefit of your health,” suggests medical professor Boerge Nordestgaard.

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Article & Photographs by Leonie Cornelius

FROM GARDEN TO TABLE Award winning garden designer and Interior Architect Leonie Cornelius explores some edible garden petals to decorate a stunning iced-cake.

Page 18 Mature Living

A

t this time of the year many gardens are looking really great. Colour is finally spreading through the borders and gardens seem to be exploding with vibrancy.

Interestingly many of the flowers in the border are actually edible. Flowers can be used to make all sorts of delicious treats from lollipos to lemonades and even for savoury cooking. This month I decided to use some edible flowers to decorate a lovely white-iced sponge cake.

I am always drawn to colourful mixes of flowers and the plants I have chosen for this cake decoration are a really vibrant mix of shades. We have deep oranges of calendula petals, striking violas ranging from an almost black purple to light

to any homecooked meal.

The wild growing purple Viola odorata, which is native to Europe and Asia, can even be used to make candied sweets, such as the famous Violettes de Toulouse as well as syrups and delicious purple liquors.

Violas are also very healthy and are used in many medicinal cures. Many contain antioxidants and are said to strengthen blood vessels. Viola herbal remedies stimulate the immune system and they are used to make cough syrups, their anti-microbial properties making them useful in the treatment of acne.

Historically the Greeks and Romans treasured violets and made wine out of the flowers.

There are some wonderful recipes out there for making your own violet syrups and wine if you fancy getting creative. If you do decide to make the wine then it will be handy to know that the Romans also believed that the flowers could prevent drunkeness and even cure hangovers!

violet shades. The deep maroon red tones and oranges in nasturtiums are offset by the lovely blue of the cornflower and small dots of lilac purple are brought by tiny buds of allium.

Here are the plants we used to decorate the delicious cake.

Violas One of my favourite plants to use, particularly in baking, is the pretty little viola. This delicate plant, which is considered a good luck gift, has pretty heart shapes leaves and has many uses in the kitchen and beyond. The plant in its simplest form, can be picked and just added to salads, onto soups or on cakes. There are so many varieties and colours to choose from, making them the perfect finishing touch

Cornflower Cornflowers is a common wildflower that is originally native to the Near East but has naturalized in many European, scandinavian and North American regions. The common cornflower, Centaurea cyanus, is an annual plant which can be

grown as an ornamental plant in gardens. It is widely used in florist bouquets and is grown in many colours in pastel shades such as pink, white and lavender but also in striking shades such as black.

Cornflowers have been used for centuries to create a deep blue dye and you can even make a homemade food dye out of them as they are edible. The taste of the pretty common cornflower is a very delicate sweet spicy mix that goes well in salads for both taste and visual appeal.

The Centaurea cynus is also used as an addition to some tea blends such as fine Earl grey teas and the petals can be picked and added to salads, the colour creating a tasty visual feast. As a herbal remedy the cornflower is used by herbalists to treat eye ailments.

Calendula The calendula, or marigold, is another edible plant that is very useful in salads. These pretty flowers are native to southwestern Asia, western Europe, Macronesia , and the Mediterranean. The petals of these flowers are perfect on this cake to give a touch of that deep orange. The colour, when extracted from these flowers, has even been used to dye cheese!

The romans and Greeks used to wear the Calendula as crowns

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Nasturtiums These flowers originally from South America are very peppery in taste-almost like watercress.

Both the leaves and the flowers can be eaten and the unripe seeds can be put in spiced Vinegar to make delicious Nasturtium capers. The flowers of this plant are so pretty and are amazing in salads and stir fries. They have very large amounts of Vitamin C so are incredibly healthy. They are also often used in herbal medicine due to their antiseptic qualities.

We have used just the petals of the flower for this cake and they give such a great pop of colour.

This beautiful limited edition cake is available to order from Shells Surf Cafe in Strandhill throughout the month of July.

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and garlands and in India they are considered sacred and are used to decorate the statues of Hindu gods. Calendula are often used in beauty products aswell and you will find the ingredient of c.officinalis, which is healing and detoxing in many creams and potions.

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Discover the

F

Cliffs Of Moher

rom its northernmost point in Donegal to its southernmost in Cork, the Wild Atlantic Way offers one of the world’s most diverse and spectacular coastlines. Immerse yourself in the culture, music and food found in the towns and villages along the way, climb the most breathtaking heights and experience a landscape that revives the soul.

In Seamus Heaney’s (1939 –2013) poem ‘Lovers on Aran’ he poses the question ‘Did sea define the land or land the sea?’ The Wild Atlantic coastline has intrigued and mystified visitors to Ireland and helped shape the people of the west of Ireland.

2750 KM • 160 DISCOVERY POINTS • 15 SIGNATURE DISCOVERY POINTS • 26 ISLANDS TO DISCOVER • 150 HIDDEN GEMS more impressive huge Atlantic swells battering the coast during bad weather.

Whether you find yourself wandering the Deserted Village on the Blasket Islands, foraging for local food across the Killala Bay or kayaking in Kinsale, these experiences are ones worth planning a trip around.

The Wild Atlantic Way is can be enjoyed over a few days to several weeks, with over 1,000 Attractions, over 2,500 activities

including walking, cycling, kayaking, surfing, fishing and more, over 50 Blue Flag beaches, nearly 20 long distance walks, over 120 Golf courses and over 500 festivals and events to enjoy during each year.

Wild Atlantic Way Guides by County Over the next two pages are guides to attractions for each county on the Wild Atlantic Way.

Mullaghmore, Co. Sligo

F

ishing, collecting seaweed, artisan foods, kayaking, swimming, walking, cycling, snorkelling, diving, adventuring, artists, story tellers, seaside towns, blue flag beaches, camping, myth and legend, folklore, islands, cottages and windswept lighthouses. The Wild Atlantic Way has everything you’ll need in a holiday and more.

From cliff top views to great hikes and from historic cities to picture perfect coastal villages

Page 20 Mature Living

and some of the best surfing in the world, the Wild Atlantic Way drive caters for visitors of all ages and tastes.

Slow down, meet the people and experience the real Ireland.

Wild Atlantic Way Facts - The Wild Atlantic Way is the longest signed coastal route in the world at 2,750 km (1,700 miles) in length with plenty side routes, loops and activities.

- the Wild Atlantic Way travels the entire west coast from the picturesque town of Kinsale in

Cork through counties Kerry, Clare, Galway, Mayo, Sligo, Leitrim and ends in Donegal - join the Wild Atlantic Way at any number of points along its length, complete it in either direction and enjoy the many shorter side loops and dozens of attractions and activities - The Wild Atlantic Way provides visitors with stunning scenery at every turn and letting them experience the wild nature of Irelands Atlantic shore be it glorious sunshine or the even

Take the unique boat trip to the Skellig Islands UNESCO World Heritage Site, Co. Kerry

The Wild Atlantic Way For further information please contact Visitor Services, OPW, Unit 20, Lakeside Retail Park, Claremorris, Co. Mayo, Ireland Tel 01-6476000 Email info@heritageireland.ie

For further information on the OPW Heritage Card please contact Tel: 01-6476592 email:heritagecard@opw.ie Images courtesy Dept of Arts, Heritage & the Gaeltacht

Enjoy Ireland's Heritage

Dún Aonghasa, Inis Mór, Co Galway

Free Admission on the First Wednesday of each month

Boyle Abbey, Co Roscommon

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Parke's Castle, Co Leitrim

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4 STAR

Donegal Hotel

Golden Holiday 3 B&B + 2 Evening Meals & Complimentary Spa Thermal Suite Session *Meals consist of starter & main course

• July & Aug €169pps • Sept & Oct €159pps Nov & Dec €149pps Autumn Ballroom Break October 5th - 7th: 3 B&B + 3 Evening Meals, Gala Ball, Ballroom Dance Tuition & Nightly Dancing to Live Bands

Only €185pps

Call to request a 50+ & Dancing for Pleasure Brochure!

Villa Rose Hotel & Spa, Main St, Ballybofey, Count y Donegal ROI: 074-9132266 NI: 00353-749132266 W: www.villarose.ie

4 Star, family-owned, town centre hotel Voted #1 Hotel on Tripadvisor

Wild Atlantic Way Guides by County The following are guides to attractions for each county on the Wild Atlantic Way. CORK Enjoy Great Food in Kinsale, Charles Fort and Old Head of Kinsale Seven Heads and Inchydoney Beach Walks Lough Hyne and Baltimore –

Pirates, Whale watching Sherkin and Clear Islands Mizen Head, Sheeps Head Way Walks Dursey Island and Cable car and Beara Way Walk

KERRY The Kerry Way walking trail (130km) – the world’s best long hike Skellig Islands boat trip Valentia Island – Bray Head, Culoo, Tetrapod Fossils, Fogher

Dun Aengus Fort, Aran Islands

Hogs Head, Kerry.

Cliffs and Beginish Island Cahergal, Leacanabuaile, Staigue and Loher Ancient Stone Forts Beaches Derrynane, Ballinskelligs, Glanleam, Rossbeigh, Inch, Banna and Ballybunnion MacGillycuddy Reeks Mountains and Irelands highest Mtn. Corrán

Tuathail (1,039m) Killarney National Park, Muckross, Gap of Dunloe and Torc Waterfall Dingle town, Fungi the Dolphin, Basket Islands, Mt. Brandon and Dingle Way Walk Tralee Beaches, Rose of Tralee, Aquadome, Playdium, Wetlands Centre – family friendly

Clew Bay from Croagh Patrick Mountain, Co. Mayo.

SLIGO and LEITRIM Mullaghmore Head, Beach and Surfing Queen Meaves Tomb and Benbulben Mountain

Tory Island Fanad Head and Ards Forest Park Inishowen Peninsula, Malin Head and Five Fingers Strand

DONEGAL Bundoran Beach and Surfing Sliabh League Cliffs

Photos by the great Valerie O’Sullivan, Photographer with ActiveMe.

Mizen Head, Cork CLARE Kilrush – See Dolphins Loop Head and Kilkee Beach – Snorkel the Pollock Holes natural swimming pool Cliffs of Moher, Coastal Walk and The Burren Doolin Ferry to the Aran Islands and Doolin Cave Lahinch Beach and Surfing

GALWAY Dunguaire Castle and Kinvarra Spanish Arch and Galway City Salthill Promenade and Carraroe Beach Ferry to the Aran Islands Derroura Mountain Bike Trails Killary Harbour Connemara National Park and Kylemore Abbey

MAYO Clare Island and Clew Bay Croagh Patrick Mountain Keem Strand Achill Island Greenway Walking and Cycling Route Ceide Fields

Dunree Strand- Co. Donegal

Active Retirement special offer from

â‚Ź109.00pps

2nights B&B no Sgl supp (subject to availability)

Owing to the generosity of Mrs. Anne Clarke (R.I.P.), both the Irish nation and the world have gained access to this unique and priceless collection.

Jackie Clarke (1927-2000) was a genius collector. From the age of 12, he amassed a collection of Irish material comprising over 100,000 items, spanning 400 years

The TheWild WildAtlantic AtlanticWay Way

FR. PEYTON C.S.C., MEMORIAL CENTRE ATTYMASS, BALLINA, CO. MAYO

A modern attractive building welcomes you to: • Experience the multimedia presentation that tells the fascinating story of Ireland’s most famous priest The “Rosary Priest” !

• View the photographic exhibition of Fr. Peyton’s life • Visit our oratory and contemplation garden • Spiritual direction and counselling • Restaurant, Souvenier and craft shop • Heritage room and archives

Visit our website: www.fatherpeytoncentre.ie Tel: 096-45374 • Fax: 096-45375 Email: ppmc@eircom.net

Solo Travel Guide For Those Over 50

A

solo holiday is an opportunity to enjoy a trip abroad entirely on your own terms, whether you want to relax at a luxurious resort or indulge your passion for sightseeing in an exotic location.

With many adults living alone, the stigma about solo holidays has well and truly evaporated, with many travel companies actively encouraging solo travellers – so if you’ve been longing to get away from it all, but feel held back by the lack of a travelling companion, there’s never been a better time to make the leap.

City Breaks

Beach Holidays If your idea of heaven is a beach, a good book, and no distractions, packing off to a stunning resort on your own can be an ideal way to recharge the batteries.

Even the most popular holiday destinations such as Ibiza and Spain have quieter, lesser known areas that can be a paradise for the solitary traveller.

The best and worst holiday destinations for your heart health Heart Heaven India - Tandori Chicken

Cruises

A solo city break is a great chance to lose yourself in an entirely unfamiliar culture – many travellers enjoy taking the day to explore the cultural touchstones of their destination and take in some shopping, but might prefer some company in the evening.

Consider a group singles holiday, which allows you to be as sociable as you like, when you like – couples on holiday can be quite insular, so going it alone is a great way to get out of your comfort zone and expand your social circle.

Adventure Holidays

Shared adventures are a great way to bond, and with over half of all adventure holiday customers travelling alone, you’re more likely than ever to meet like-minded people.

From physical challenges like hiking and mountaineering to charity and volunteer work, venturing off the beaten path can often lead to an unforgettable experience.

Page 26 Mature Living

If making new friends is your goal, a cruise can be just the ticket – with a wide variety of group activities on hand but no obligations to join in with anything you don’t want to, you can get to know your fellow passengers at a pace that suits you.

Travel companies used to aim primarily at couples, but have recently woken up to the market for solo holidaymakers with very affordable single travel cabins now widely available.

If you’re going on holiday by yourself it’s more important than ever to be fully protected in all eventualities. Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance, and if you’re going somewhere outside the ordinary, always check your policy to make sure all of your planned activities fall within your cover.

Over 50s travel insurance often features optional extras reflecting the popularity of specialist holidays – such as golf insurance – whether you’re crossing the globe or snoozing in your deckchair, with a little forward planning you can enjoy the holiday of a lifetime with peace of mind.

W

hen you fly out on holiday this year, do you know whether you're heading to a 'heart hell' or 'heart heaven' destination? Make sure your heart gets a holiday too with this list of the best and worst destinations for your health.

Make sure your heart has a holiday too

New research by Flora pro.activ reveals that only 4% of people think about what they are eating when abroad, which can have damaging effects on their heart health. Saga Magazine provided Flora with the top ten 2013 holiday destinations and they've been split into ‘Heart Hell’ and ‘Heart Heaven’ destinations.

Heart Hell

USA - Rib eye steak

Heart hell destinations The top heart hell destinations according to respondents and their preferred local dish to eat are: USA - Rib eye steak Greece - Mousakka Caribbean - Jerk chicken Italy - Pizza China - Peking duck Croatia - Lamb on the spit It's probably not a surprise to see the USA as the worst destination for heart health.

Tucking into a juicy rib eye steak, which was voted the most popular dish to eat whilst in the States, might look good on the plate, but is not good for your cholesterol, with nearly one and a half times as much saturated fat than the daily recommended maximum intake per portion.

Close behind is Mousakka from Greece which provides nearly 100% of the recommended daily amount per portion, followed

by Jerk Chicken from the Caribbean.

The fact that only 4% of the Irish are thinking about saturated fat levels in food whilst on holiday is worrying, considering high cholesterol is a key factor of heart disease.

The worst cities for pickpockets 8. Amsterdam, Netherlands With so many fun things to see and do amongst the friendly and laid-back atmosphere of this city, it's easy to drop your guard and let the pickpockets take advantage.

When you're travelling abroad you need to be extra careful with your valuables and where there are tourists there are always people seeking to exploit them. Travel website TripAdvisor has come up with a list of the ten worst cities for pickpocketing and advice on how to beat the thieves.

Don't let pickpockets ruin your holiday

Prague Castle beyond, be sure your valuables are strapped down.

1. Barcelona, Spain

4. Madrid, Spain

9. Athens, Greece

Heart Hell Greece - Mousakka Heart heaven destinations Fortunately, there are some popular destinations that will give your heart a heavenly break.

These popular local dishes are below the recommended amount of saturated fats per meal.

India - Tandoori chicken Canary Islands - Puchero canario (canarian stew) Spain - Tapas South Africa - Grilled game Tanya Footman, Senior Nutrition & Health Manager at Flora pro.activ says, “It is amazing just how much hard work people put into to being healthy before they go away – and then once on holiday they don’t give it a second thought!

“But there are some really easy ways that holidaymakers can try to make healthier choices for their cholesterol whilst away, even at those ‘Hellish’ destinations; try to avoid anything deep

fried, limit creamy sauces and you can ask the for dressings, sauces, butter and sour cream on the side.

“Don’t forget to eat your fruit and vegetables, even if it's pizza; make it a slice loaded up with vegetables, and experiment with unusual varieties that aren’t always available at home!”

Other interesting results from the survey 93% of Irish will make an effort to try the local cuisine but only 12% would think to check the saturated fat content of the dish Northern Ireland is the least health conscious region with only 20% thinking about the nutritional value of their food on holiday Our biggest holiday eating concern is putting on weight (30%), followed closely by food poisoning (24.6%)

Heart Heaven Spain - Tapas

Pickpocketing in Barcelona is almost a generally practiced and accepted sport. Las Ramblas, the famous wide, pedestrian walkway full of life, music, and people at all hours of the day and night, is the perfect place to get your purse poached.

2. Rome, Italy

Back in Spain again, El Rastro fleamarket and the crowded metro are often cited as spots where pickpockets operate.

Travellers should also have their wits about them that in the city's many museums, where distracted tourists are often preyed upon.

4. Paris, France From the base of the Eiffel Tower to the steps of SacréCoeur, the City of Light draws enormous crowds. Trouble is often found below ground, in the city's metro system, where travellers should be especially cautious.

With its ancient buildings and astounding historical and cultural attractions, Rome is full of tourists admiring outdoor attractions like the Trevi Fountain or the Pantheon, making it easy for pickpockets to lift a camera or purse.

3. Prague, Czech Republic One of Prague's most romantic sites, Charles Bridge is lined with baroque-style statues and thousands of tourists who crowd its ancient stones each year, making it perfect for pickpocketing. Before taking in the view of the Vltava River and the

6. Florence, Italy It's certainly easy to be distracted by the majestic beauty and awe-inspiring works of art all around Florence. When you're admiring Michelangelo's David, or its replica in the busy Piazza della Signoria, be aware that others may be admiring your wallet.

7. Buenos Aires, Argentina A common scam in this vibrant and culturally rich city involves you being suddenly covered in "bird droppings" (likely mustard), while a "friendly" local (likely a thief) happens to be standing by with napkins to help you clean up (and clean you out).

As mentioned before, it's the outdoor attractions that can often be the worst places for thieves. When visiting the Parthenon, or anything else in this magnificent historic city, keep the bags close to the vest while your eyes admire the rest.

10. Hanoi, Vietnam The capital of Vietnam has its charming Old Quarter, littered with monuments and colonial architecture, making it a beautiful and unique place to visit, but also a place to stay alert for mischief.

Top 5 Tips to avoid being pickpocketed Never keep your wallet or valuables in your rear pocket, even if it is buttoned down – it's by far the easiest target.

Beware of the distraction tactic in crowds - dropping something near you, squirting something on you, or simply jostling you.

Pickpockets often work in pairs or groups and can be difficult to spot. Be cautious with any strangers - sometimes people who don't look like they'd be a threat, such as children or the elderly, can be part of larger operations. Stay alert in confined spaces and near passageways.

Try to avoid standing near the doorways of trains as groups of pickpockets can rush at you when the doors open.

Before you set off on a trip, only take what you need, leaving the rest on the hotel room safe. The smaller the bulge of your purse or wallet, the less likely pickpockets are to covet it.

Fully Licensed and Bonded by the Commission for Aviation Regulation.T.A No. 0682

D-Mek Centre, Teeling Street, Ballina • Tel: 096-77771

We specialise in Exotic Honeymoon destinations, Sun Holidays and Weekend City Breaks... why not contact us, the professionals for that extra special break.

Hotel Breaks

Over 50’s Special Offer 2 Nights B&B and 2 Dinners only €278 Tea & Scones & Newspapers

4 Course Dinners / Full Use of Leisure Centre Valid for September & October Only

Special Midweek Offer B&B for 2 People only €99

Special Midweek Offer B&B for 2 People & Dinner only €129

Valid for September & October Only

Valid for September & October Only

20% off Spa Treatments Available Sun-Thurs

Includes 2 Course Meal Available Sun-Thurs

Special Weekend Offer 2 Nights B&B and 1 Dinner only €238 Includes Full Use of Leisure Centre Valid for September & October Only

20% off all Spa treatments with all offers ( excludes special offers / t&c's apply )

Local Activities:

Lough Key Forest Park www.loughkey.ie, Moorlands Equestrian Centre www.moorlands.ie, Electric Bike Trails www.electricbiketrails.com Arigna Mining Museum www.arignaminingexperience.ie, Indoor Airsoft Shooting & Archery www.carrickindoorshooting.com

Hotel Breaks

B&B Breaks

drom caoin

Ponderosa Bed & Breakfast

Bed & Breakfast

B&B Accommodation, Louisburgh, Co Mayo Castlebar Street, Westport, Co. Mayo. info@clooneenhousewestport.com

Stay and Play Golf package Stay in Drom Caoin Bed and Breakfast, and play 18 holes on the Famous Eddie Hacket designed Carne Golf Links One night with full Irish breakfast, one round of golf and an energy pack! €82.00.

Price based on two persons sharing twin or double room. * Offer available Monday to Thursday.

Drying room for wet gear, storage room for golf equipment, battery charging facilities in storage rooms Buggy and caddie can be arranged

Whiskey and wine tasting evenings for groups of 4 and over

For further information contact 097-81195 • stay@dromcaoin.ie Belmullet, Co. Mayo.

Westport, designated one of Bord Failte's Heritage Towns, is situated in the shadow of Croagh Patrick, overlooking Clew Bay. We are based in the centre of Westport town We are very near Croagh Patrick We have excelent facilities and customer care Experience a warm welcome and gracious hospitality Children rates available We combine classic elegance with home atmosphere Escape the bustle of urban life on the longest off-road walking and cycling experience in the country (Greenway.ie).

Telephone: 098-25361 Mobile: 087-6875900 (Desmond)

rry Ho a g use o o D

B&B

Simbavati - "The Place Where Lions Come Down From the Stars"

Ponderosa Failte Ireland approved B&B is a modern Bed and Breakfast set in a peaceful scenic location of West Mayo on Irelands Wild Atlantic Way. The B&B is located 20km from Westport and just 200 metres from the picturesque village of Louisburgh, County Mayo which is the gateway to Connemara.

Music in McNamaras Family Bar in Town 25+ Businesses Nearby Homely Atmosphere Must see stay in Louisburg

Telephone: 098-66440 Email:marion@ponderosamayo.com Tooreen Road, Louisburgh, County Mayo

Summerhill

BED & BREAKFAST

Breaffy Road, Castlebar, Co Mayo

A Warm Irish Welcome Awaits You at Doogarry B&B Experience a warm, cordial welcome from Ann & Martin Naughton in this family run B&B, just 5 minutes walk from the centre of Claremorris town, set in a quiet and secluded cul-de-sac.

Simbavati B&B is an Irish Owned, high quality Accommodation located in Ballina, Co. Mayo.

There are plenty of fantastic pubs and restaurants all within walking distance for you to enjoy, we are ideally located for further travel in the Mayo/Sligo area and are less than 45 mins from Knock Ireland West Airport.

Your host, Mary Maheady would like to welcome you and hopes you enjoy your stay and her biggest reward is seeing guests return time after time.

Phone: 086-3045737 Email: bookings@simbavati.ie

Doogarry B&B is a luxurious and spacious home located on the N60 road and within walking distance of Castlebar town centre. We are Failte Ireland Approved and members of Town and Country Homes Association.

We accept all major credit cards and travel agent vouchers. This B&B is an ideal touring base for County Mayo with nearby attractions including the Ceide Fields, Knock, Connemara, Ashford Castle, Westport, Croagh Patrick and Clew Bay. We are located in close proximity to activities such as gold, fishing, cycling and walking.

Our B&B has three spacious bedrooms with Ensuite bathroom facilities including TV, hairdryers and tea/coffee making facilities in the rooms.

Tel: 094-9021793 Mob:: 087-9082347 E-mail: doogarryhousebab@eircom.net Web: www.doogarryhouse.com

Local amenities include Claremorris' 18 hole Championship Golf Course, a leisure centre including gym and swimming pool and Clare Lake/ McMahon Park. The McWilliam Hotel is within 3 minutes drive.

Knock Airport and Knock Shrine are within 15 minutes drive, and the popular tourist destinations of Galway, Sligo and Westport are all within 1 hour's drive.

Prices from €35 pp sharing

Ard Clar, Claremorris, Co. Mayo Telephone: 094-9371937

B&B Breaks

a c s hel m r A Bed & Breakfast

River Haven Self Catering Eco Tourism Development

Knockvicar, Boyle, Co. Roscommom Tel: 071-9667012 Mobile: 086-8170996 email: jpburke@indigo.ie Riverhaven self-catering is an eco-tourism development adjoining Lough Key, the Boyle River and Clarendon Lough.

The self-catering accommodation consists of a group of Log houses made from Scandinavian Pine.

Activities that are available on site include:- a children’s play area; barbeque and picnic facilities; fishing; boating; a mulch path walk through privately owned forest; idyllic river bank walk to local shop; as well as access to Kilteasheen archaeological site. Riverhaven is a family run business with personal attention to guests being of high importance. Pubs, shops and restaurants are located close-nearby. Riverhaven has three and four bedroomed houses, each with two rooms en-suite.

All are wheelchair accessible, have wood burning stoves, heat pumps and all mod-cons.

Four Star Self Catering Accomodation

Lough Eske, Donegal Town, Co Donegal

Situated overlooking Lough Eske & the Bluestack Mountains, The Arches Country House is the perfect idyllic location to explore County Donegal & the North-West of Ireland.

The Arches is a family-run guesthouse with each room superbly furnished with every comfort you expect to find in a high-quality B&B. After a peaceful nights sleep, you will enjoy our delicious breakfast, while taking in the picturesque views from the dining room.

Guests can also take advantage of the beautiful garden & outdoor seating areas.

The Arches is just 5 mins drive from Donegal Town & close to many activities & attractions.

Telephone: 074 9722029 Email: archescountryhse@eircom.net

Coill Dara House - Bord Failte Approved 4 Star B & B Accommodation Knock Road, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon Tel: 094-9620117 ritamorgan@armcashel.com Coill Dara House is a beautiful modern, period style home of character, located on a small farm on the edge of Tubbercurry (Tobercurry), Co.Sligo. Depending on seasons, you can meet sheep, lambs and donkeys in fields around the house. Located just off the R294 (TubbercurryBallina Road) and N17 (Sligo-Galway), 12 miles from Knock Airport, Tubbercurry is very accessible and as we are close to the Mayo border, are a very central base for exploring the west and northwest of Ireland, along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Run by Rita Morgan, Armcashel is a comfortable, bright, spacious, non-smoking B&B overlooking Clonalis Estate - the Ancestral Home of the O'Connor Clan.

Situated just 1 km from Castlerea town centre on the Castlebar/Westport road. (N60) An elevated dormer house extending to the rear giving a fantastic view of green fields from every window.

A homely atmosphere and the uniquely personal attention - making your stay as enjoyable as possible. "Home away from home" are comments from guests returning on a regular basis.

Mrs. Patricia McCarrick, Proprietor Ballina Road, Tubbercurry, Co.Sligo T: 071-9186095 M: 087-2597700 E: patricia@coilldarahouse.ie

Millstone

Bed & Breakfast Cashel, Glencolumbkille, Co. Donegal Phone:(074) 973 0295

Bluebell House, Clooneen, Manorhamilton, Co Leitrim

A charming B&B located in the coastal town of Gleann Cholm Cille (Glencolmcille or Glencolumbkille) in the southwest Gaeltacht of County Donegal.

If you're looking for somewhere to get away from it all, Bluebell House on the outskirt of Manorhamilton, County Leitrim, is an excellent choice. The property, which boasts stunning views of Benbo Mountain and O'Donnell's Rock, is only a five-minute walk (1 minute in the car) from the town centre.

The name translates into English as “valley of Colm Cille”. Saint Colm Cille or Columba is one of Ireland’s three patron saints (along with Saint Patrick and Saint Brigid). Colm Cille and his followers lived in the valley for a time and the ruins of several of their churches can still be seen there.

Close to all amenities.

Our bed and breakfast is all located on the one level with spacious rooms. Our home is set in a tranquil setting which has Benbo Mountain and O’Donnell’s Rock as spectacular views from all windows. We offer varied breakfast options for our visitors to choose from.

Ideally situated on the periphery of Manorhamilton and within easy walking distance of the town and the pubs!!

T: 071-9855384 • M: 086-1542860 E: bluebellbb@eircom.net

Health Matters

IMMORTALITY:

THE LONGEVITY TREND According to a study from Washington University in St. Louis, the people who know you best may be the best predictors of your life span. That’s because traits like anger, depression and risk-taking – all very obvious to your buddies – are linked to an earlier death.

Birthday Party Animals The ocean quahog, a type of clam, is the longest living animal in the world, easily reaching 500 years. Biologist Steven Austad at the University of Alabama at Birmingham is studying this creature on a cellular level to unlock its mysteries. At the University of Liverpool, bioscientists are investigating the genome of the bowhead whale, which, at 200plus years, is the longest living mammal.

Don’t Be a Fool, Send Your Kids to School Two California sociologists have discovered that having college graduates for kids – instead of high-school dropouts – can add two years to your life. In fact, your offspring’s education level appears to matter even more than your own. The researchers

I

n February, Time magazine explored various factors that influence how long we live. A March issue of Newsweek focused on ambitious research programs in the tech sector as Silicon Valley CEOs search for bold new drugs to slow the aging process. This kind of news catches our attention: a University of Calgary survey found that 59 per cent of Canadian adults would eagerly sign up for scientific breakthroughs that allowed them to live to 120.

Immortality?

We’re not there yet. But from the innovative to the unconventional, here’s what may – and may not – add years to our lives Final Countdown A new wristwatch called the Tikker counts out the estimated remainder of your life, based on a set of screening questions. It sounds dire but it might motivate you to exercise and eat better. If you don’t have a Tikker, just talk to your friends.

Page 34 Mature Living

suggest that better-educated kids may have extra health and tech know-how to help their parents out – not to mention a bit more of the dough-re-mi.

Say No to Seconds Calorie restriction is widely thought to extend the life span of humans (or maybe it just feels that way).

It’s already been proven in small organisms and, last year, researchers in Wisconsin showed that it also works in primates.

But what if you enjoy food more than life itself? At the University of Florida, scientists have shown that fasting intermittently (and feasting on other days) can make a positive difference to some of the bodily mechanisms associated with aging. At Harvard, researchers have identified a molecular pathway that, if manipulated by drugs, might fool your body into thinking you’re fasting – even if you’re enjoying a five-course meal.

Take a Steam A study that has been following 2,315 Finnish men has uncovered a surprising tidbit: those who used the sauna frequently were much more likely to be alive after 20 years.

Researchers aren’t sure whether the longer lives are due to the heat, the relaxing atmosphere, the social aspect – or even the fact that you’re not so overscheduled you can’t make

learning to control – this complex system of signals.

Live Forever … in a Freezer The Arizona-based Alcor Life Extension Foundation offers whole-body cryopreservation (it’s half-price if you freeze only your head!). But you don’t want to miss the fine print, especially if you’re planning to be brought back when a cure is found for whatever ailed you. Although you’re paying to be kept in cryonic suspension, the company acknowledges that “cryopreservation is not yet reversible.” Oops.

Social Butterflies It’s already been established that an active social life is linked to longevity. Brand new research at Brigham Young University now shows it also works the other way around: loneliness and social isolation can shorten your lifespan as significantly as obesity!

time for a steam.

You Are What You Eat You may think more vegetables and fewer processed foods will lead to longer life. But in Lithuania, it’s believed you’ll live longer if your hard-boiled Easter brunch egg doesn’t crack when you play a game of knocking it against someone else’s. In India, facing east while eating is said to increase your life span. In China, eating long noodles represents a long life.

New Blood Could you turn back the clock with a blood transfusion from a younger donor? The idea has prompted a flurry of testing in animals. An aging mouse, for example, will function better and look healthier when its circulatory system is connected to that of a younger mouse. So what runs in the blood? Harvard researchers pinpointed a single protein called GDF11 (we have it, too) that, when injected into older mice, appears to revitalize heart, brain and

FREE CONSULTATION IN YOUR HOME OR OUR SHOWROOMS. Harmony Hill, Sligo • Tel: 071-91-45810 Tone Street, Ballina • Tel: 096-24763 www.tegre.ie

muscle function. They hope to start human trials within three or four years.

Stem Cell Therapy Imagine swapping your old kidneys for a younger set or trading in your heart for a fresh new one. We’re not there yet, but it’s one of the possibilities that stem cell researchers around the world are considering to help us live longer.

Stem cells rely on proteins, hormones and other molecules around them to tell them how to grow and develop.

Researchers are working on interpreting – and hopefully

A Longevity Pill?

Scientists are learning more about the microscopic changes in our bodies that lead to death. So in the future, will we stop aging just by popping a pill? Researchers in Bonn, Germany, have found that rapamycin, an anti-rejection drug used in organ transplants, extends the life of mice. So do a cancer drug, dasatinib, and a health supplement, quercetin, according to Mayo Clinic scientists. Metformin, a diabetes medication, is also being studied after it lengthened life in small animals. Even Google’s scientific labs are working on an anti-aging treatment. But aging is a complicated process of more than 150 changes in the body. So when a longevity pill does appear, it may prove too big to swallow.

Health Matters

Symptoms With moderate to severe vaginal atrophy, you may experience the following vaginal and urinary signs and symptoms:

Vaginal Atrophy

I

s your vagina going through troublesome changes? If it was, would you be aware of it? Would you speak about it to anyone? Would you talk to your partner, lover, husband, or even your doctor about it?

Although, almost 1 in 2 postmenopausal women suffer from Vaginal Atrophy, we would rather speak of flatulence, bad breath, incontinence and hemorrhoids than utter these two words. Vaginal Atrophy gets 250,000 Google hits compared to ED (Erectile Dysfunction) which has 34,000,000!

Vaginal Atrophy is a silent symptom of menopause that is defined as the thinning and inflammation of the vaginal wall that generally impacts women in their menopausal journey. VA occurs when there is a reduction in levels of estrogens which are produced by the ovaries. Estrogens are responsible for maintaining the structure and function of the vaginal wall, elasticity of the tissues around the vagina, and production of vaginal fluid.

More than likely, since most of our mothers never sat us down and had a conversation about what to expect when you are expecting menopause, chances are she never uttered the words Vaginal Atrophy either. It is time to break the taboo and bust open up the conversation about the lining of our vaginas, because Vaginal Atrophy impacts all areas of a woman’s life and affects the people who love us, tool!!

Most women don’t even know what VA is, nor understand that it is a chronic problem that requires ongoing treatment and IS treatable.

What are the symptoms of VA? vaginal dryness, pain or bleeding in connection with sex (dyspareunia) itching soreness or irritation painful or burning urination incontinence (involuntary urination) pain when touching the vagina If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, it could impact many facets or your life such as: sexual intimacy having a loving relationship with a partner overall quality of life feeling healthy feeling attractive feeling fit exercising traveling participating in outdoor activities If this is the case, why are women suffering in silence? don’t realize that VA is a common consequence of low estrogen levels do not think there is help for sexual and

Page 36 Mature Living

vaginal health issues are unaware of the treatment options find short term solutions for relief instead of treating the underlying problem believe that menopausal symptoms end when the hot flashes stop It makes total sense that VA is going to affect your relationships, health, and over all feeling of wellbeing! According to the data from the Closer Study, 35 percent of women reported they do not feel sexually attractive anymore and 31 percent had lost confidence in themselves as a sexual partner. Women who experience VA often feel isolated and alone which resulted in 24 percent reporting that they felt emotionally distant from their partners.

So what can be done 1. Be sure you have a good specialist that is going to be your partner in this menopause business.

2. Ask for: A pelvic exam to examine the pelvic organs; look at the vagina and the cervix. A Pap test to take a sample of cells from the cervix. Get your vaginal secretions and the acid level in your vagina checked. A urine sample might need to be included, if you are experiencing unusual urgency or a leaky bladder.

3. Talk with your specialist about the various options –systemic hormone therapy, creams, vaginal ring, vaginal tablets etc. Listen to the facts and then together evaluate what is best for your individual needs. One of the options available is local estrogen therapy (LET). I know that many women have completely closed off their minds to anything related to hormone therapy. It is interesting to note that this CLOSER global research did find that compared with other countries surveyed, 77% of US women were most likely to use lubricating gels and creams, and are the least likely to use hormone therapy, despite the advantages shown in the survey among those who sought treatment. Of U.S. women who had tried local estrogen therapy (LET), 56% of women and 57% of their partners reported that sex was less painful, and almost 40% reported that sex was more satisfying for themselves and their partners. Since the use of LET, 34% of women and 54% of men look forward to having sex after using local estrogen therapy.

4. Communicate with your partner.

When communication shuts down completely, everyone suffers, so it is important to keep talking. Don’t be embarrassed – be open and honest. This will strengthen your relationships not hinder them.

Vaginal dryness Vaginal burning Vaginal discharge Genital itching Burning with urination Urgency with urination More urinary tract infections Urinary incontinence Light bleeding after intercourse Discomfort with intercourse Decreased vaginal lubrication during sexual activity Shortening and tightening of the vaginal canal When to see a doctor By some estimates, nearly half of postmenopausal women experience vaginal atrophy, although few seek treatment. Many women resign themselves to the symptoms or are embarrassed to discuss them with their doctor.

Make an appointment to see your doctor if you experience painful intercourse that's not resolved by using a vaginal moisturizer (Replens, Vagisil Feminine Moisturizer, others) or water-based lubricant (glycerinfree versions of Astroglide, K-Y Intrigue, others) or if you have vaginal symptoms, such as unusual bleeding, discharge, burning or soreness.

Causes Vaginal atrophy is caused by a decrease in estrogen production. Less estrogen makes your vaginal tissues thinner, drier, less elastic and more fragile.

A drop in estrogen levels and vaginal atrophy may occur: After menopause During the years leading up to menopause (perimenopause) During breast-feeding After surgical removal of both ovaries (surgical menopause) After pelvic radiation therapy for cancer After chemotherapy for cancer As a side effect of breast cancer hormonal treatment Vaginal atrophy due to menopause may begin to bother you during the years leading up to menopause, or it may not become a problem until several years into menopause. Although the condition is common, not all menopausal women develop vaginal atrophy. Regular sexual activity, with or without a partner, can help you maintain healthy vaginal tissues.

Risk factors Certain factors may contribute to vaginal atrophy, such as: Smoking. Cigarette smoking affects your blood circulation, resulting in the vagina and other tissues not getting enough oxygen. Smoking also reduces the effects of naturally occurring estrogens in your body. In addition, women who smoke typically experience an earlier menopause.

No vaginal births. Researchers have observed that women who have never given birth vaginally are more likely to develop vaginal atrophy than women who have had vaginal deliveries.

No sexual activity. Sexual activity, with or without a partner, increases blood flow and makes your tissues more elastic.

Hotel Breaks

Mayo Visitor Attractions Achill Island - Co Mayo Achill with its Atlantic location, five Blue Flag beaches and breathtaking mountain landscape provides an unrivalled arena for outdoor activities and watersports of all types. The Atlantic waters around Achill Island and the Curraun Peninsula are home to a wide range of sealife and varieties of fish, making the area one of the best

sea angling destinations in Ireland. The heritage of Achill is also explored by the Achill Archaeological Summer School, which is currently undertaking an extensive survey of the Deserted Village at Slievemore.

Clew Bay and the surrounding south Mayo countryside are to be had.Follow the steps of Patrick and in doing so meet people from far and near. Teach na Miasa, The Croagh Patrick Visitor Centre, is situated in Murrisk on the Pilgrim's path at the base of Croagh Patrick mountain and opposite the National Famine Monument.

Achill Island - Co Mayo

Ceide Fields The Céide Fields, Ballycastle are the oldest known field systems in the world, over five and a half Croagh Patrick

millennia old. It is a unique Neolithic landscape of world importance, which has changed our perception of our Stone Age ancestors. The remains of stone field walls, houses and megalithic tombs are preserved beneath a blanket of peat over several square miles. The multiaward winning Centre has exhibitions, audio-visual show and tearooms.

Ceide Fields

Croagh Patrick - Cloona, Co, Mayo Croagh Patrick this ancient place in history, Patrick's sacred mountain, and a rich vein of archaeological heritage. Croagh Patrick is situated five miles from the picturesque town of Westport and the mountain's conical shape soars majestically above the surrounding countryside. Magnificent views of

Foxford Woollen Mills Visitor Centre Foxford Woollen Mills Visitor Centre, imagine a unique and thriving woollen mills set in the wild and rugged West of Ireland in Mayo, famous worldwide for its rugs and tweeds, and blankets. Take the industrial tour and experience the sights, sounds and smells of this 19th century woollen mills.

Afterwards relax in the comfortable restaurant and browse through the impressive mill shop.

Mother of Christ. Two church commissions examined the claim- "The claim was 'trustworthy and satisfactory'".

Now Knock Shrine is one of the major Marian Shrines of the world. Knock Folk Museum documents the story of the Knock Apparition of 1879 and places it in the context of the lifestyle of the people, their traditions and customs at the time.

Knock Shrine is located under 20 minute drive from Knock Airport.

Knock Shrine - Knock, Co Mayo Knock Shrine, Knock, Co Mayo on 22 August 1879 fifteen local people saw a vision of Mary the

Westport House, Mayo Westport House Mayo designed by the famous

Available from September to June

architects Richard Cassels and James Wyatt in the 18th century, Westport House is located west of the Shannon and is one of Irelands’ most historic homes open to the public. Westport House enjoys a superb parkland setting with lake, terraces, wonderful gardens and magnificent views overlooking Clew Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, Achill, Clare Island and Ireland’s holy mountain Croagh Patrick. It was built and is still privately owned by the Browne family who are direct descendants of the 16th century Pirate Queen, Grace O’Malley.

Knock Shrine

Thinking About Choosing a B&B? Reasons to Go For It...

When you take a holiday, whether it is a weekend getaway or a more extended stay, you look for budgetfriendly comfort, a homey atmosphere and a rich local experience. There is no place better to book your stay than a Bed & Breakfast. Without a doubt when staying in a guesthouse you are guaranteed personalized treatment.

B&Bs are usually located away from a towns hustle and bustle, and your stay will be less stressful than staying in a town centre. Unwinding and enjoying the local fare and activities is a lot easier.

There are often fewer guests staying at B&Bs, so you are more likely to make friends over breakfast, share your travelling experiences, and even hook up with someone to go exploring with.

B&B owners take enormous pride in their establishments, and their main goal is to give you the VIP treatment in a casual and relaxing atmosphere.

Security is second to none at B&Bs and with fewer rooms available and a small number of guests, the owners can keep an eye on things without being intrusive.

When you stay at a B&B you will be in an area of the country that many people would miss experiencing while staying in the town centre.

Often these homes are in the countryside, and you get the chance to live among the local residents and get the true flavor of the region.

You will find you have privacy at a Bed & Breakfast, which ultimately means more peace and quiet.

B&Bs offer a unique way to escape the toils of every day, and a wonderful chance to refresh yourself at your own pace. You may also be surprised to find endless luxury at a B&B, as each bedroom is special, giving you the feeling of being in a relaxing retreat. It is an experience you won’t soon forget.

Hotel Breaks

Mayo Visitor Attractions Achill Island - Co Mayo Achill with its Atlantic location, five Blue Flag beaches and breathtaking mountain landscape provides an unrivalled arena for outdoor activities and watersports of all types. The Atlantic waters around Achill Island and the Curraun Peninsula are home to a wide range of sealife and varieties of fish, making the area one of the best

sea angling destinations in Ireland. The heritage of Achill is also explored by the Achill Archaeological Summer School, which is currently undertaking an extensive survey of the Deserted Village at Slievemore.

Clew Bay and the surrounding south Mayo countryside are to be had.Follow the steps of Patrick and in doing so meet people from far and near. Teach na Miasa, The Croagh Patrick Visitor Centre, is situated in Murrisk on the Pilgrim's path at the base of Croagh Patrick mountain and opposite the National Famine Monument.

Achill Island - Co Mayo

Ceide Fields The Céide Fields, Ballycastle are the oldest known field systems in the world, over five and a half Croagh Patrick

millennia old. It is a unique Neolithic landscape of world importance, which has changed our perception of our Stone Age ancestors. The remains of stone field walls, houses and megalithic tombs are preserved beneath a blanket of peat over several square miles. The multiaward winning Centre has exhibitions, audio-visual show and tearooms.

Ceide Fields

Croagh Patrick - Cloona, Co, Mayo Croagh Patrick this ancient place in history, Patrick's sacred mountain, and a rich vein of archaeological heritage. Croagh Patrick is situated five miles from the picturesque town of Westport and the mountain's conical shape soars majestically above the surrounding countryside. Magnificent views of

Foxford Woollen Mills Visitor Centre Foxford Woollen Mills Visitor Centre, imagine a unique and thriving woollen mills set in the wild and rugged West of Ireland in Mayo, famous worldwide for its rugs and tweeds, and blankets. Take the industrial tour and experience the sights, sounds and smells of this 19th century woollen mills.

Afterwards relax in the comfortable restaurant and browse through the impressive mill shop.

Mother of Christ. Two church commissions examined the claim- "The claim was 'trustworthy and satisfactory'".

Now Knock Shrine is one of the major Marian Shrines of the world. Knock Folk Museum documents the story of the Knock Apparition of 1879 and places it in the context of the lifestyle of the people, their traditions and customs at the time.

Knock Shrine is located under 20 minute drive from Knock Airport.

Knock Shrine - Knock, Co Mayo Knock Shrine, Knock, Co Mayo on 22 August 1879 fifteen local people saw a vision of Mary the

Westport House, Mayo Westport House Mayo designed by the famous

Available from September to June

architects Richard Cassels and James Wyatt in the 18th century, Westport House is located west of the Shannon and is one of Irelands’ most historic homes open to the public. Westport House enjoys a superb parkland setting with lake, terraces, wonderful gardens and magnificent views overlooking Clew Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, Achill, Clare Island and Ireland’s holy mountain Croagh Patrick. It was built and is still privately owned by the Browne family who are direct descendants of the 16th century Pirate Queen, Grace O’Malley.

Knock Shrine

Thinking About Choosing a B&B? Reasons to Go For It...

When you take a holiday, whether it is a weekend getaway or a more extended stay, you look for budgetfriendly comfort, a homey atmosphere and a rich local experience. There is no place better to book your stay than a Bed & Breakfast. Without a doubt when staying in a guesthouse you are guaranteed personalized treatment.

B&Bs are usually located away from a towns hustle and bustle, and your stay will be less stressful than staying in a town centre. Unwinding and enjoying the local fare and activities is a lot easier.

There are often fewer guests staying at B&Bs, so you are more likely to make friends over breakfast, share your travelling experiences, and even hook up with someone to go exploring with.

B&B owners take enormous pride in their establishments, and their main goal is to give you the VIP treatment in a casual and relaxing atmosphere.

Security is second to none at B&Bs and with fewer rooms available and a small number of guests, the owners can keep an eye on things without being intrusive.

When you stay at a B&B you will be in an area of the country that many people would miss experiencing while staying in the town centre.

Often these homes are in the countryside, and you get the chance to live among the local residents and get the true flavor of the region.

You will find you have privacy at a Bed & Breakfast, which ultimately means more peace and quiet.

B&Bs offer a unique way to escape the toils of every day, and a wonderful chance to refresh yourself at your own pace. You may also be surprised to find endless luxury at a B&B, as each bedroom is special, giving you the feeling of being in a relaxing retreat. It is an experience you won’t soon forget.

Finance

Does this sound like your house?

Y

our 20-something kids are in his bedroom playing video games. You are sitting at the kitchen table going through the bills. You are interrupted by one asking what’s for dinner. You look up from the bill you’re perusing – the one attached to your hungry offspring’s mobile phone – and think, really?

If it’s any consolation, you’re not alone. According to Statistics a whopping 42 per cent of young adults aged 20 to 29 were in the parental home at the time of the last census.

Middle-aged boomers on the cusp of retirement are shelling out for everything from food and shelter to student loans and plane tickets to the Canarys, and many are doing it at their own financial peril.

According to a recent study

by Merrill Lynch Wealth Management entitled Family and Retirement: The Elephant in the Room, 62 per cent of people aged 50 and above are providing financial support to family members, often without

due consideration as to how their largesse was going to impact their own retirement.

Retirement can be expensive, and it is easily possible in our age of universal health care to outlive your savings, sometimes by a wide margin. The situation has gotten so bad that there are now self-help books aimed at boomers whose kids are treating the parents like their own personal ATMs. In his aptly entitled book The Bank of Mum and Dad: Money, Parents and Grown Children, Canadian business writer Derrick Penner says it’s time for parents to ratchet down the guilt and start being more hardnosed before providing financial support to adult children, some of whom are old enough to be sporting their own bald spots.

“I wrote the book to give those considering lending or giving money to their children some things to think about,” he says. Before opening up the “bank,” parents and/or grandparents need to do a careful assessment of their own

financial situation and then follow that up by having open and honest discussions with their children who must be prepared to bare their financial activities and demonstrate what they are doing to ensure lenders or givers are not enabling financial profligacy. Whatever the outcome, these are the kinds of discussions that should not be taking place during a few minutes of pleading/wheedling over the kitchen table when emotions can trump common sense.

“A lot of people see their children in need and feel stressed about it, but you shouldn’t feel pressured into giving money,” says Penner.

“Know your assets, do a proper balance sheet. If the numbers don’t allow it, don’t do it.” He adds that it’s a good idea to put loans in writing. Doing so creates a firmer sense of the obligation on the part of the borrower, and the contract can be something you can wave in the air when you’re the lender and your kids miss a payment!

Penner says he was moved to write the book following discussions with estate agents who reported – anecdotally – that an increasing number of first-time home buyers were plumping up their deposit with loans or grants from Mum and dad. Hey, it is an expensive world, and nobody is trying to suggest that it is immoral to provide financial support to adult children. At the same time, it would be wrong for young adults to consign their parents to penury in retirement

because of the decisions they themselves made on the way to, uh, maturity.

Tackling the parents and progeny issue from a different perspective is London-based chartered accountant and investment adviser Emily Griffiths-Hamilton. Her book Build Your Family Bank: A Winning Vision for Multigenerational Wealth is less about supporting needy adult children than preserving hardwon wealth through successive generations. “The failure rate for family succession plans is an astounding 70 per cent,” she says. Many families with assets to pass along focus on controlling these assets and minimizing or deferring taxes, ignoring the “human elements” of the family that are crucial to the process.

Again, open and honest communication is the key to success. Families need to be run like successful corporations and nurture human and intellectual capital the same way Microsoft or Apple might. “It doesn’t matter if you’re a family or a not-for profit; the more everyone is committed to the core values and culture, the more successful the family or organization is going to be.”

Similarly families need “policy structures” in place to deal with contingencies, including death, divorce and, in some cases, incorrigible members who decline to get with the program.

Quite obviously establishing these kinds of familial structures doesn’t happen

overnight, especially in clans where the wealth has been built through the efforts of a domineering entrepreneur.

That’s where GriffithsHamilton’s guidelines for establishing communications and bringing order out of chaos can serve some purpose. It’s often difficult for self-made people to cede control, but helping succeeding generations prepare for wealth transition can go a long way toward avoiding having hard-won assets frittered away by a generation of financially illiterate heirs.

The Bank of Mum and Dad does not have to publish annual reports so it’s impossible to determine how much financial support boomers are providing to their adult children here in Ireland but we do know that six in 10 parents are extending some kind of financial credit to family members, so the figure has to be significant.

Here are some numbers we do know, thanks to a recent report.

19 per cent of boomers say they would put their own financial future at risk to help their adult children.

43 per cent allow their adult children to live at home rentfree.

29 per cent have subsidized big purchases, everything from cars and homes to computers and airline tickets.

23 per cent contribute to monthly expenses, including rent and grocery bills.

20 per cent have helped pay off credit card or other debt.

Page 37 Mature Living

Technology

ARE YOU ADDICTED TO THE INTERNET? When does Internet use actually become a problem? Here’s how to tell.

Addiction says it’s not a simple formula determining if someone is an internet addict.

“No single behavior pattern defines internet addiction. These behaviours, when they have taken control of addicts’ lives and become unmanageable, include: compulsive use of the internet, a preoccupation with being online, lying or hiding the extent or nature of your online behaviour, and an inability to control or curb your online behavior. If your internet use pattern interferes with your life in any way shape or form, (e.g. it impacts your work, family life, relationships, school etc.) you may have a problem. In addition, if you find that you are using the internet as a means to regularly

D

o you stay online longer than you intended only to later lament how much time you’ve wasted?

Do you prefer contact via social media over being with people in person?

Do you delay going to bed because you’re online and then have trouble sleeping?

Are your friends and family feeling neglected because you’re online so much?

Well, maybe you have IAD (Internet Addiction Disorder), which the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders now includes as a condition and recommends for further study.

A 2013 survey by McAfee, a California-based computer security software company, found that the 50-plus demographic is spending an average of five hours a day online. Eight in 10 use

social media networks and more than a third log in daily.

So when does Internet use actually become a problem?

When it becomes so all consuming that it starts affecting your productivity and your personal relationships, according to the Pennsylvania-based Centre for Digital Technology Sustainability, which runs a variety of programs including ReSTART, an Internet Addiction Recovery Program where participants spend 45 days techfree (for thousands of dollars) and learn how to reconnect with themselves and others without technology.

According to another Pennsylvania-based organization, the Centre for Internet Addiction, the most common form of addiction is online pornography, but online gambling, auctions and video games are also common problem areas.

alter your mood you may be developing a problem.”

The Centre emphasizes that it’s not the number of hours or minutes spent online that determine if you have a problem, but rather the kind of impact it has on your life.

If you think you might have a problem treatments can include family counselling, support groups, or educational workshops for addicts and their families.

And treatment doesn’t always mean heading off to rehab and going cold turkey. It more often focuses on moderation and more controlled use of the internet.

One treatment program likens it to “the way those suffering from eating disorders must relearn healthy eating patterns.”

Americans spend 53 billion minutes every month on Facebook, reports PC News. And while online casinos in the U.S. generated $12 million in 2005, by 2010 that figure had more than doubled, reaching $29 million.

The seduction of the internet is powerful for many people and we now know it can lead to addictions, but it can also have enormous benefits.

For example, it enables seniors, especially those with health or mobility issues, to stay connected with friends and family. Studies have also shown that using the internet increases activity in areas of the brain associated with memory and decision-making. Research also shows that older people who use the internet for email and social networking can reduce their chances of becoming depressed by as much as 20 per cent.

The Centre for Internet

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Relationships

Dating in your 50s and beyond….

F

or many over 50s, they have not been single for decades and are finding it hard enough to be on their own let alone trying to navigate their way in the dating world.

With friends who are already married, have children and move away, your pool of available singles shrinks dramatically. But this doesn’t mean that meeting someone when you’re in your 50s – or beyond – is an impossible task.

Here are some great tips for getting back into dating: Profit from your experience Just think about all the things you know now that you didn’t know when you first started dating. Not only are you in a much better position to size up other people, but you also know yourself much better. Maybe a divorce has forced you to stand on your own two feet for the first time in years, or bereavement has made you realise that life is too short.

Whatever your history, you have light years more experience than the 18 year old you.

One simple way to work out exactly what you want from a new partner is to write list of two-three must haves/can’t stands. All you need is a sheet of paper and a little time to

Page 40 Mature Living

yourself. Think hard about the characteristics your ideal partner would have, and the ‘deal breakers’ they simply can’t have. For example, maybe they need to have a great sense of humour, but definitely not be career obsessed. This will help you gain clarity over who you’re really seeking at this stage in your life. You’ll likely find your new ‘ideal’ partner is far removed from the one you thought you wanted in your 20s.

Faking it The secret to being successful at changing any type of

behaviour is repetition. It isn't enough to just think you want to be different you need to actually practice what you're trying to achieve. Not all of us are born naturally exuding confidence so we have to put in a bit more effort. There is a phrase 'Fake it till you make it', let's amend that to 'Practise makes perfect!' Here are a few tips to put into use and I promise you they will soon become second nature.

Make eye contact When you're talking to someone hold their view. That way they'll know that you're really listening

to them. Nod occasionally which also lets them know that you are paying attention, and be sure to smile in agreement Interact with the person you're conversing with Be sure to ask further questions about whatever they tell you.

This makes the conversation

flow and as people like nothing more than to talk about themselves it will make them enjoy speaking to you. Resist the urge to talk endlessly about yourself. Whenever someone says 'She was such a good listener!' it really means 'She let me talk about myself and was interested in everything I had to say about Me'. This is usually considered a good thing.

Interesting facts and stories In case the conversation runs dry have a few amusing anecdotes about yourself to lighten the mood and move the conversation along. It's also a good idea to take one serious story and one amusing story from the day's newspaper.

Between the story of the time your skirt fell off in the supermarket and the threeheaded panda just born in a Chinese zoo, you'll never run short of things to talk about.

The real secret to appearing confident is to appear comfortable.

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.

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

T

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

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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 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

Props.

R & J Naughton • Est. 1967 •

• Wash & Dry • Dry only • Pressing service Specialising in Duvets & Curtains Tone Street, Ballina • Telephone: 096-21030 Page 41 Mature Living

The Bands of our Showband Era Memories

T

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 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

Tony Kenny

A

trip to Tony Kenny's personal website (see bottom of this page) actually tells you little about the contribution this singer has made to the Irish entertainment scene over the past four decades.

Tony's start on the showband scene came in a roundabout way.

He had been with the Mexicans Showband, but left the band as he had not wanted to turn professional at the time. He then went on to the Arran Showband, where he mimed on television to another singer's vocal track (which he revealed in a July, 1968 interview with B.P. Fallon in Spotlight) but stayed for less than a month before as he and three other members left to form The Vampires. The Vampires had been one of the top groups on the Dublin beat scene, including appearing on the same bill as the Beach Boys.

Tony's fortunes changed forever when he was asked to join a new band, The Sands, being formed by four members of the Miami in Page 42 Mature Living

1967. The band was launched and took the country by storm, soon being hailed as one of the nation's top acts. Very much a "pop" singer back then, his first two singles (starting in 1967) were covers of Help Me Rhonda, and Yummy Yummy Yummy. "I was, like, 16, and it was a dance band" says Tony. In the early 70's Tony borrowed heavily from major American pop acts such as Tony Orlando, releasing covers of songs such as Venus, Dance Dance Dance, Candida and Knock Three Times. After the release of Knock Three Times in September, 1972, Tony left the Sands to start a solo career, Murty Quinn took over lead vocals and the Sands continued to enjoy great success.

For a while, it was rumoured Tony would be starting a new band. In fact, in the October 12th issue of Spotlight, it was announced Tony would be taking the role of Jesus in the upcoming production of Jesus Christ Superstar in January, 1973. The same blurb mentioned that Tony

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

to civilian life, or scattering to two or three new bands. For such a small country, it is difficult to comprehend the sheer number of bands that the country produced. Almost as hard to imagine, is the number of dance halls that once dotted the countryside, many out in the "middle of nowhere."

Pick up next months issue for another blast from the blast from the showband era...

was recruiting musicians for new band which would also hit the road in January. At the same time, he was still looking for material which might allow him to break into the English scene.

In early 1973, Tony released

Tony with Brendan Grace and Kim Newport in 1982

Heart of Stone, a Coulter-Martin composition produced by Phil Coulter and Mickie Most, sung in a falsetto voice and released under the name "Kenny." The record was a huge success in England and he followed it up with a tour

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

Left to right: Tommy O'Rourke (trumpet), Marty Phelan (sax), Dennis Murray (bass), Tony Kenny (vocals), Bobby Kelly (guitar), Fran Byrne (drums) and Murty Quinn (trombone/vocals). of Ireland which was announced in April. His solo tour kicked off in Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo and he was backed by Tyrone band, The Sounds (we assume the same band which featured Derek Mehaffey).

In the show, Tony performed for an hour and then the Sounds played for the rest of the night. He followed up Heart with Give It To Me Now which also charted.

Despite gaining international acclaim, Tony then abandoned the name Kenny and returned to Ireland. However, the records had been so successful that producer Mickie Most, took a local English band named Chuff and renamed them Kenny to capitalize on Tony's initial success. A feature in

Tony Kenny in 1973

the August 2, 1973 issue of Spotlight announced Tony was going back on the road with a new band, while Give It To Me Now was on release. The lineup of the band was listed as Bobby Kelly (guitar), Fran Byrne (drums), Kevin McAlea (keyboards) and John Drummond (bass). We think this band was short lived. Tony enjoyed his role in musical theatre after being selected, along with Colm Wilkinson, Jim McCann and Luke Kelly of the Dubliners, to star in "Jesus Christ Superstar."

The show opened in Dublin's Gaiety Theatre with some protests as Heart of Stone climbed the English charts. Said Tony, "at the time, Ireland was a very religious

country, and 'Jesus Christ Superstar' had never been performed there. It immediately drew protesters, who presumed that it was disrespectful of Christ, and it wasn't. But the Vatican radio played the entire 'Jesus Christ Superstar' album and the protesters vanished the next day."

Tony gave up the grind of the road to star in several musicals in Dublin, including Joseph and His Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.

During this time, he also hosted his own TV series on RTE, Ireland's national television station. In February 1975, Tony was voted Personality of the Year for 1974 by Spotlight Magazine.

They cited his transition from the world of showband singers to stage performers as one of the main reasons for the honour.

After the run of Joseph, Tony wanted to get back on the road and manager Louis Walsh drafted a Belfast-based pop/rock group, Dirtywork, to be Tony's backing band. Tommy Lundy, Ronan Callaghan, and Brian O'Kane The members relocated to Dublin and Tony was playing the ballrooms once again, but this time under his own steam. In 1979, he released Bluer Than Blue, a song which reflected the more easy going style he had adopted as a solo performer. Around this time, he also released Key Largo and Another Somebody Done Somebody Wrong Song. For the next few years, Tony concentrated his efforts on the ballroom scene, but like all bands, he had to face the reality that by the early 1980's, the era was truly coming to an end.

In 1980, the band broke up with Tommy Lundy and Ronan O'Callaghan joining Aonghus McAnally and Stephen Travers in Crackers. Bobby Kelly went on to join up with late Dubliner Ronnie Drew. Barry Patterson would later rejoin Tommy and Ronan in The Crack. As the 80's progressed, Tony mixed continual TV appearances with a growing involvement in the cabaret scene where many of the bigger names of the showband era could still pack them in. He joined the Jury's Irish Cabaret show as the show's headliner and began singing more Irish traditional numbers.

Regular visits to the United States followed, and like many Irish artists, Tony began to make annual trips to the States, dividing his time between appearances in the two countries. For the past ten years, he has been thrilling audiences with his renditions of Irish classics, as well as songs of inspiration and standards. He tours the United States in the Spring and again in the Fall with his show. On St. Patrick's Day, 1995 Tony was invited perform at the White House for then President Bill Clinton. The following year, he was honored by Jurys Hotel for his 2000th appearance in the Irish cabaret. In 1998, Tony was

honored as Ireland's "Entertainer of The Year," a tribute to his enduring talent as one of Ireland's greatest performers. In 2001, he was invited to sing the National Anthem at a football game between the Buffalo Bills and Miami Dolphins.

Today, Tony lives in Dublin with his wife, Joan, and their two children. He has continued to release recordings in a variety of genres, always making each song his own. A list below highlights just some of his recordings. When Tony received the Performing Artists Trust Society's award for lifetime achievement in the performing arts, it simply consolidated his place in the history of Irish Entertainment as one of the best loved stars from the Showband era. In early 2008, Tony was a part of the "Do You Come Here Often" showband show and later in the year starred in "Celtic Nights" a cabaret show at the Regency Hotel in Drumcondra, Co. Dublin alongside his daughter, Victoria.

(Our sincere thanks to Paul Welch for helping us compile some of this information about Tony and The Sands and to Brian "Shorty" O'Kane from the Tony Kenny Band) Page 43 Mature Living

a taste of

Ingredients 6 hard boiled eggs 2 ozs. mashed potatoes 2 ozs. grated cheese 1 oz butter 1/2 tspn pepper 1/2 tbsn salt Tomato sauce Method Cut the boiled eggs in centre, and seperate in halves.Remove the yolks and sieve them.

Mix together with the mashed potato, cheese, butter, tomato sauce, pepper and table salt. Pipe a little of the filling mixture to the egg halves and chill until you serve them. Sprinkle a little paprika or chilli powder on top. Optionally, you can garnish with a small parsley leaf.

Tip: Remaining mixture can be used to make egg sandwiches

Ingredients 6 large potatoes 1 large onion sliced 2 tspn crushed red chillies 1/2 tspn chillie powder 1/2 tspn turmeric powder 1 tspn mustard seeds 1 sprig curry leaves 1 stick cinnamon Salt to taste 2 or 3 dried red whole chillies 1 tspn maldive fish (optional) Method Peel the potatoes and cut them into

2cm cubes. Add sufficient salt and deep fry them until golden brown. In a bowl, combine sliced onions, crushed red chillies, chillie powder, turmeric powder, curry leaves, cinnamon, 1/2 tspn salt, maldive fish (optional), and mix well. Heat 1 tbspn cooking oil in a pan, then add mustard seeds and when it starts to splatter add 2 or 3 dried whole red chillies. Let it fry for a few seconds and then add the onion mixture to it.

Stir fry until golden brown. Finally add the fried potato cubes, mix well and remove from fire.

Ingredients 1/2 lb Butter 1 lb Icing Sugar 2-3 tspn nescafe (instant coffee) 1 Cup Milk 2-3 Marie Biscuit/Cookie Packets (120g) 1 tspn Vanilla 2 tbsp chocolate curls (grated chocolate) 1/2 cup chopped roasted cashew nuts(optional) Method To make the coffee cream, beat butter & icing sugar until it becomes pale

colour. Then flavor it with nescafe (instant coffee) dissolved in 1 tbsn hot water, vanilla & beat well. In a glass dish pour a thin layer of coffee cream.

Soak the biscuits lightly in milk (flavor with a little instant coffee), arrange a layer of biscuits over the cream (gaps should be filled). Then spread a layer of coffee cream again & a layer of biscuits. Arrange like this alternately until the coffee cream is over (the top most layer should be cream). Sprinkle with chopped roasted cashew nuts or chocolate curls if desired. Chill for about 2 hours.

Ingredients 1 lb. ground beef or raw minced beef 1 onion sliced 2 tspn vinegar 2 tspn salt 1/2 tspn black pepper powder 1 clove garlic finely chopped Mix the above ingredients together.

Mould balls tightly-each to the size of a small lime and set aside.

Ingredients for the curry Tamarind juice or 1 tspn vinegar 2 cups coconut milk Salt as desired 2 tspn chili powder 1 tspn curry powder 1 sprig curry leaves 2 inch piece cinnamon Little bit of sliced onion Method Temper the onions with 2 tspn of cooking oil. When it's golden brown add the curry leaves. Then add all the ingredients for the curry, mix well and bring it to a boil. When the mixture boils, carefully drop the raw meat balls one at a time. Occasionally, shake the sauce pan while cooking instead of stirring with a spoon. When its well done, remove it from fire and spread 1 tspn of roasted curry powder. Serve with rice and curry.

Ingredients 8 inch flour tortillas 1 lb ground turkey or beef 2 large boiled potatoes 1/2 cup chopped onions 1/4 cup frozen peas 1 tspn cumin seeds 1 tbsp coriander seeds 1 tspn chopped garlic 2 tspn chopped ginger 2 green chillies 1/2 tspn turmeric powder 2 tspn garam masala 2 tspn red chili powder 2 tspn lemon juice 2 tbsp vinegar salt to taste cooking oil for deep frying Method Heat a pan with 1 tbsp oil and add the chopped onions. When its light brown, add chopped ginger, green chillies and garlic. Then add coriander, cumin seeds, turmeric powder and stir well. Now add ground turkey or beef, garam masala, red chili powder, vinegar, salt to taste, stir well and let it

cook until well done. Then add the green peas and stir for a while.

Meanwhile, peel and mash the potatoes and add to the filling. Add the lemon juice, mix well and remove from fire.

Cut each tortilla (circle) into two and lightly dampen the edges of each semi-circle with lightly beaten egg white. Shape each semi-circle onto a cone by pressing the cut edges together. Place 1 1/2 tablespoon full of filling into the cone and seal the edges well.

Repeat this with the rest of the tortillas. Deep fry in medium hot oil about 2 at a time until crisp and golden brown. Remove to a paper towel.

If you prefer, you can make these ahead without deep frying and keep it in the freezer. Whenever you need it, take it out from the freezer and deep fry immediately.

Angelscope for August

with Fiona Faery

F

iona Faery is an Irish Psychic Medium who unites people regularly with their loved ones in spirit & also offers psychic guidance with her Faery oracle card readings. She is a regular on Irish radio & has monthly columns in various publications. Fiona is known for her optimistic no-nonsense approach to life. She teaches workshops on mediumship and helps 'baby' mediums build their confidence & step into their power. Her spiritual poetry has found a home on her Facebook page; Fiona Faery where she posts a daily poem. Her poetry is aimed to motivate & empower, as Fiona believes in helping people connect with their soul purpose. She reads internationally through her website www.fionafaery.ie

Aries Angel of miracles This month Aries, it's time to put energy into your dreams.

Energy follows intentions so be mindful that your intentions are positive.

Start seeing obstacles as temporary setbacks that ultimately will show you the way to destiny.

Lucky Day: 29th of August Lucky colour: Green

Taur!s Taurus

Angel of Dreams Slow down Taurus, it's time to recharge your batteries. Give yourself a well deserved rest.

Be aware of shouldering burdens that do not belong to you. Trust your inner compass, for if something sits with you/does not sit with you, pay attention!

Lucky Day: 15th of August Lucky colour: Ruby

Gemini

Cancer Soulmate

Angel of Forgiveness This angel has entered your cards today to urge you to be more compassionate and forgiving towards yourself.

Stop pushing yourself so hard.

Be mindful of your sleep patterns and diet for your body maybe asking you to slow down. Get outside and get out of your head!

Lucky Day: 11th of August Lucky colour: Moss Green

Love is in the air for single Cancereans this month. Chance encounter outside leads to a second date.

Say yes! For those in relationships, make time for a picnic, go for a walk together and allow yourself to connect on a soul level.

Lucky Day: 27th of August Lucky colour: Violet

Leo

Virgo

Libra

Scorpio

Truth and integrity Leo, it's time to tie up any loose ends or any niggling correspondence.

Annoying payments such as car tax, insurance, TV license, etc must be addressed as when the truth and integrity card enters your spread it means a brush with the law. Be mindful of your words and be prepared to stand over them or eat them as the case may be.

Lucky Day: 16th of August Lucky colour: Amber

Angel of Surrender and release Virgo, this card is about letting go.

Share the load or burden you carry with a friend. They may give you a perspective you haven't yet thought off. Get outside for a walk beside water, as water is the conduit for emotions and you will feel replenished. Slow down this month and take stock.

All will be well in perfect time.

Lucky Day: 17th of August Lucky colour: White

Angel of playfulness It's time to get that mischievous streak out libra. Shake your head and your booty! Gather up your loyal friends and take time out (with a bottle of wine) recounting over old memories or making new ones! This month is a time of connecting and celebrating.

So, what are you waiting for?

Lucky Day: 30th of August Lucky colour: Pink

Angel of Celebration Great news is on the way. This can come on the form of a pregnancy, new job or successful results. Rejoice and celebrate. This is also a card of luck, as the ring around the moon gives you the Midas touch. Close your eyes and take a breath, allow yourself to feel your breath flow in and out of your lungs. Allow yourself to be present in this moment. Joy is on the way. Lucky Day: 29th of August Lucky colour: Purple

Sagittarious

Capricorn

Aquarius

Pisces

Angel of New beginnings You cannot begin a new chapter if your still reading the previous one.

It's time to move and to do so with a new born lesson in tow. The past has nothing more to teach you. It's time to be present to yourself and new opportunities that come your way, you are worthy of joy and love. It's time to make plans. Lucky Day: 26th of August Lucky colour: Silver

Angel of Listening The archangel Michael appears beside you to give courage, inspiration and guidance.

Pay attention to any repetitive signs/songs that maybe happening around you. You may feel guided to contact someone. This is your angels way of telling you to listen to your gut. The more we listen to our intuition, the closer we come to realising our dreams.

Lucky Day: 20th of August Lucky colour: Blue

Angel of ideas and inspiration Aquarius, those niggling doubts are coming to the surface. You don't need to learn the same lesson twice.

Act on any haunches and beware of gossips. What someone says about another, says more about their character than the person they speak of. Trust your gut.

Lucky Day: 21st of August Lucky colour: Gold

Angel of intention Energy follows intentions. Stay balanced this month, weigh up the positive and negative of a situation. Focus on solutions not obstacles. If you are truly focused on your goal, you will find a way, if your not you'll find an excuse!

Believe in yourself Lucky Day: 23rd of August Lucky colour: Violet

Fiona Faery gives private 1-to-1 sittings at The Sligo Park Hotel on the last weekend of every month. She is also available for private consultations or One Question readings on her website www.fionafaery.ie You can contact Fiona to Book a Private Reading @ 0863736143

Solicitors

Dementia and assisted decision making The Assisted Decision Making (Capacity) Bill 2013 was introduced in order to promote and protect the rights of those who may have difficulties making decisions for themselves as part of the ratification process of the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. These groups include those with mental illness, those with intellectual disabilities, and those suffering from dementia and other neurological disorders.

Dementia Most people over the age of 65 do not suffer from any impairment of their ability to make decisions, but some do. Dementia is not a normal part of ageing, but it commonly affects older people.

The World Health Organisation defines dementia as a syndrome due to a disease of the brain, usually of a chronic and progressive nature, in which there is a disturbance of multiple higher cortical functions, including memory, thinking, orientation, comprehension, calculation, learning capability, language and judgement.

Those in the early stages of

dementia can plan for the future, for example by donation of an enduring power of attorney which would allow another person to make decisions about financial and some welfare matters when they lack the ability to make these decisions for themselves.

They can tell their families of their wishes for their future care.

Family members, often elderly spouses or adult children, may face enormous challenges when caring for older people with dementia at home. The decision to seek admission to a nursing home is not taken lightly and is often seen as deeply stigmatising: they feel they should continue to care for the person at home, and institutional care is viewed as an admission of failure on their part.

Acknowledging that they are no longer able to care for an elderly relative or spouse at home is often accompanied by feelings of guilt and sorrow which generate considerable conflict within families.

Concepts of capacity The ability to make a decision is

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often referred to as mental capacity. It consists of the ability to receive, understand and weigh information in order to arrive at a decision; and the ability to communicate the decision made.

There is a rebuttable presumption of mental capacity.

Capacity is assessed in relation to the nature of the particular decision at that particular time.

It is known as the functional test of capacity. A person may have the capacity to decide that they need to buy a new coat, but lack the capacity to make decisions about investment of their money.

The ability to manipulate financial information is often impaired early in the course of dementia.

Legislative background In Ireland there are currently two main forms of legislation which allow decision making on behalf of those who lack the ability to make decisions: (i) Enduring Power of Attorney The person, while they still have the ability, can donate an enduring power of attorney to another person. In order to be

activated, the attorney’s powers must be registered when the person loses the ability to make their own decisions. There are two broad areas of decision making: finances and personal care. At present the Act does not confer the power to consent to or refuse medical treatment on behalf of the donor, but does allow the attorney to decide where the person should live, for example a nursing home. (ii) Wardship A person who is deemed to be of unsound mind and unable to manage his person or property may become a ward of court. Wardship is governed by the Lunacy Regulations (Ireland) Act 1871. A Committee makes decisions on behalf of the ward, who is regarded as lacking any decision making ability and who is essentially stripped of his or her legal rights in that he or she cannot marry, make a will, decide where to live or manage their own affairs. (d) Assisted Decision making (Capacity) Bill 2013 Ireland now proposes to introduce legislation recognising functional tests of capacity and

repealing the Lunacy Regulations.

The legislation will allow a person who feels they may shortly lack capacity or whose capacity is in question to appoint a decision making assistant to help them make decisions, or a co decision maker. If a person is unable to make major decisions for himself a decision making representative may be appointed by the courts, or the court may make orders directly concerning the person. Informal decision makers have wide powers to make personal care decisions for those who cannot make these decisions for themselves. They are unregulated, and the powers granted to them under the Bill have been extensively criticised

by NGOs working with the elderly, the mentally ill and the intellectually disabled. The new legislation will incorporate Enduring Powers of Attorney and extend the power of attorneys to allow them to make decisions regarding medical treatment.

Those who have the capacity to do so will be able to make advance care directives regarding their future medical treatment.

CONOR A. MAGUIRE

SOLICITORS Conor A. Maguire BA (ES)

T: 071-9855983 • M: 087-6739454 E: mail@camsolicitors.com skype: conor.maguire31 Lower Main Street, Manorhamilton, Co. Leitrim (Sub Office) High Street, Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim (Tuesdays 4-7pm)

Tel: 071-9144479

Elphin Street, Boyle | 19 Chapel Street, Sligo

At Murphy Ballantyne, Solicitors, our service combines the personal touch of the family solicitor with a range of specialist advice relevant to clients. We provide a strictly confidential, courteous service, all at the highest professional standards.

Please contact John or Carol on the above number to arrange an appointment or email john@murphyballantyne.ie or carol@murphyballantyne.ie

www.mcgregorsolicitor.com Contact Mary for a quote Tel: 096-33456 Market Street, Killala • mary@mcgregorsolicitor.com

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Therapies Alternative Therapies

T

he term Alternative Medicine means any form of medicine that is outside the mainstream of western medicine or conventional medicine as practiced a majority of doctors today. This term is loosely used to over all forms of medicine except allopathy. In 1973, the Medical Faculty of the University of Rome convened the first World

Congress of Alternative Medicines and the provisional program contained no less than 135 therapies. Alternative medicine exists in all cultures to some degree and terms such as traditional medicine, indigenous medicine or folk medicine etc. are used to describe such practices. These medicines date back hundred or even thousands of years

depending on the country and culture concerned. There are more than 100 systems of alternative medicines still in practice all over the world.

Every country, region or area has its own traditional system of health and medical cares such as for the Chinese it is acupuncture, for the French, magnetic healing; for the Germans, Heilpraxis; for the

English, Herbalism; for India, Ayurveda with Siddha being widely practice in the southern part of the country; for Japan, Shiatsu etc. The most popular forms of alternative medicine are Ayurveda, Homeopathy,

Naturopathy, Yoga, Acupuncture, Acupressure, Magneto therapy, Shiatsu, Herbalism, Meditation, Aromatherapy, Bach Flower Remedies, Chromo therapy, Diet therapy, Hydropathy and Reiki.

CranioSacral Therapy It’s gentle, deep and it works!

Over the next two editions of Mature Living we will be explaining different therapies each month Chelation Therapy Chelation therapy is a series of intravenous injections of the synthetic amino acid EDTA, designed to detoxify the body.

It is also often used to treat arteriosclerosis. Most frequently, this is administered in an osteopathic or medical doctor's office.

Chinese (Oriental) Medicine Oriental medical practitioners are trained to use a variety of ancient and modern therapeutic methods - including acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage, heat therapy, and nutritional and lifestyle counseling - to treat a broad range of both chronic and acute illnesses.

Chiropractic The chiropractic views the spine as the backbone of human health: misalignments of the vertebrae caused by poor posture or trauma cause pressure on the spinal nerve roots, leading to diminished function and illness. Through manipulation or adjustment of the spine, treatment seeks to analyze and correct these misalignments.

Colonics A colonic is a colon irrigation, the irrigation of the large intestine with sanitized, filtered water under gentle pressure to wash out or detoxify it of stagnated fecal material; it is a full intestinal enema.

Counseling/Psychotherapy This broad category covers a range of practitioners, from career counselors to psychotherapies who treat depression, stress, addiction, and emotional issues. Formats can vary from individual counseling to group therapy. Some therapists may also incorporate bodywork, ritual, energy healing, and other alternative modalities as part of their practice.

Cupping It is a traditional Chinese medical technique which applies suction to diseased parts of the body using ceramic glass or bamboo cups in order to increase the regional circulation and thereby promote healing. In very ancient times the horns of animals were used for this purpose.

Craniosacral Therapy This is a manual therapeutic

procedure for remedying distortions in the structure and function of the craniosacral mechanism - the brain and spinal cord, the bones of the skull, the sacrum, and interconnected membranes. It is used to treat chronic pain, migraine headaches, TMJ, and a range of other conditions.

Dance/Movement Therapies Dance and/or movement therapy uses expressive movement as a therapeutic tool for both personal expression and psychological or emotional healing. Practitioners work with people with physical disabilities, addition issues, sexual abuse histories, eating disorders, and other concerns.

Dentistry Holistic Holistic dentists are licensed dentists who bring an interdisciplinary approach to their practice. They may incorporate such methods as homeopathy, nutrition and acupuncture into their treatment plans. Most holistic dentists emphasize wellness and preventive care while avoiding silver-mercury fillings.

A Light touch approach to body work, addressing tensions deep into the Nervous system...

Relieves: • Stress and Tension related problems • Nerve entrapment issues • Chronic pain syndromes • Habitual patterns, insomnia Facilitating somato-emotional release work A treatment that works with the body, helping you to naturally free yourself from pain, improving vitality and general well-being.

For enquries / Appointment contact Bridget Mangan CST-T, IACST, MNRRI

Mind and Body Centre, Rosbeg, Westport Tel: 087-2544660

Holistic Therapies Aromatherapy • Massage • Reflexology

Carmel is a qualified nurse and has Diplomas in Reflexology, Therapeutic Massage & Aromatherapy coupled with Post-Graduate training in reflexology in pregnancy , working with people undergoing cancer treatment including their Carers.

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Killala, Ballina, Co. Mayo • T: 096-33898 • M: 085-2404817 Develop your knowledge and self understanding, Open your mind to new possibilities, Validate who and what you are and Experience positive living.

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Dowsing Dowsing is an ancient art of searching for hidden things (water, precious metals, etc) using one of the senses that many of us are not even aware of possessing; reportedly 80% of people have this special gift - an ability to sense things not perceptible to others.

Some of these people do not need any extra tools to do that - they just KNOW where is the best place to dig a well or where the gold treasure is hidden.

Ear Candling Primarily used for wax buildup and related hearing problems, ear candling is also used for ear infections and sinus infections.

Treatment involves placing the narrow end of a specially designed hollow candle at the entry of the ear canal, while the opposite end is lit.

Electropathy Electropathy is a specialised system of therapeutics which involves the use of various forms of electric currents for medicinal purposes.

Fasting Therapy Therapeutic fasting or fasting for health is a purifying and rejuvenating process by which toxic waste matters of the body are eliminated and regeneration of diseased tissues occurs.

Feng Shui Ancient Chinese practice of arranging the home or work environment to promote health, happiness, and prosperity. Consultants may recommend changes in the surroundings - from color selection to furniture placement - in order to promote a health flow of chi, or vital energy.

Feldenkrais Method The Feldenkrais Method is a systematic approach to neuromuscular relearning.

The method is suited to healthy people who want to increase the flexibility of their bodies and thinking, people with neurological and movement disorders, and those who want to achieve excellence in the arts, sports, or any endeavor.

Flower Essences A method of alleviating negative emotional states that may contribute to illness or hinder personal growth. Drops of a solution infused with the captured"essence" of a flower are placed under the tongue or in a beverage. The practitioner helps the client choose appropriate essences, focusing on the client's emotional state rather than on a particular physical condition.

Gem Therapy A relatively recent discovery in the field of alternative medicines, it involves the use of specific gems to treat specific ailments.

Herbalism An ancient form of healing still widely used in much of the world, herbalism uses natural plants or plant-based substances to treat a range of illnesses and to enhance the functioning of the body's systems. Though herbalism is not a licensed professional modality in the United States, herbs are "prescribed" by a range of practitioners.

Heliotherapy Heliotherapy is the science conducted on the positive effects of the sun and is an effective tool in boosting the body's immune system.

Holistic Medicine A descriptive term for a healing philosophy that views a patient as a whole person, not as just a disease or a collection of symptoms. In the course of treatment, holistic medical

practitioners may address a client's emotional and spiritual dimensions as well as the nutritional, environmental, and lifestyle factors that may contribute to an illness.

Many holistic medical practitioners combine conventional forms of treatment with natural or alternative treatments.

Homoeopathy A medical system that uses infinitesimal doses of natural substances - called remedies - to stimulate a person's immune and defense system. A remedy is individually chosen for a sick person based on its capacity to cause, if given in overdose, physical and psychological symptoms similar to those a patient is experiencing. Common conditions hoeopathy addresses are infant and childhood diseases, infections, fatigue, allergies, and chronic illnesses such as arthritis.

of careers and graduate programs related to the understanding of how the body works including medical school, physical and occupational therapy schools, athletic training, and other health professions, public school teaching, sport and exercise related fields, the military, business, and law.

Lymph Drainage Therapy Therapy to drain and improve the lymphatic vessels, a system of tubes or canals through which lymph is carried from different parts of the body.

Massage Therapeutic A general term for a range of therapeutic approaches with roots in both Eastern and Western cultures. It involves the practice of manipulating a person's muscles and other soft tissue with the intent of improving a person's wellbeing or health, and may include, but not be limited to, effleurage, deep tissue, percussion, vibration, and joint movement.

See next months Mature Living for more...

Hypnotherapy A means of bypassing the conscious mind and accessing the subconscious, where suppressed memories, repressed emotions, and forgotten events may remain recorded. Hypnosis may facilitate behavioral, emotional, or attitudinal change such as weight loss, or smoking cessation.It is also used to treat phobias, stress, and as an adjunct in the treatment of illness.

Hydrotherapy It is defined as the scientific application of water for therapeutic purposes.

Water may be used at various temperatures, in different modes and in different forms.

Iridology The diagnostic system based on the premise that every organ has a corresponding location within the iris of the eye, which can serve as an

P h n y a s iotherap g n a L a r y Co & Acupuncture Clinic Cora Langan, Chartered Physiotherapist offers an holistic range of treatments.

Specialist clinical areas include acupuncture, lymphatic drainage and pilates.

3 Moy Court, Batchelor's Walk, Ballina, Mayo Tel: 087 104 6010

indicator of the individual organ's health or disease.

Iridology is used by naturopaths and other practitioners, particularly when diagnosis achieved through standard methods is unclear.

Kinesiology Kinesiology is the study of the human body during movement.

There are many disciplines within Kinesiology including anatomy, biomechanics, exercise physiology, motor control, motor learning, neuromuscular physiology, sports psychology, and philosophy. Kinesiology graduates enter a variety

To make an appointment please contact Steven on 086-8365411

Sligo Clinic of Herbal Medicine Now open for appointments at No. 1 Wine St, Sligo • Call Fionuala on 089-2321524

In the coming months we will be rolling out a programme of specialist clinics with talks and demonstrations from leading practitioners of all things medical, herbal and nutritional.

For further info visit our website at www.sligoherbal.com and to see what’s new, or for info on upcoming events check out our Facebook page at Sligo Clinic of Herbal Medicine.

Open 10am – 5.30pm Tuesday to Friday (Saturday morning clinic from 10.30-1pm)

Motoring

The new Six-door MINI

N

ew Clubman has lost its quirky three passenger-doors but the much-loved split rear doors are retained.

Accessibility and everyday usability are enhanced, thanks to four full-sized side-doors. MINI Clubman's dimensions

are now larger. It's also 270mm longer and 73mm wider than the MINI fivedoor Hatch, with a wheelbase that is 100mm larger.

The boot has a volume of 360 litres, which can be extended to 1,250 litres by folding the rear seats flat.

Ferry Gateway Irish Ferries has joined with major European ferry operators Stena Line, DFDS, P&O Ferries, Viking Line, Tallink/Silja Line, Brittany Ferries and Color Line to form the FerryGateway Association to work together to improve sales and distribution.

Its first step is the launch of a new systems communications standard for agents and ferry operators.

Hans Björkborg, Managing Director of the FerryGateway Association, said: "In Northern Europe alone, 125 million passengers travel annually on ferries and online sales between agents and ferry

operators has been growing fast.

"Until now system connections have been supported by outdated and nonstandardised solutions; the new FerryGateway standard is set to change this."

The main advantage with the new FerryGateway xml-based communication standard is that a wider range of products and services can be offered for sale.

The standard, due to be in place for the 2016 booking season, will be open for all registered users and will be accessible via the ferrygateway.org website.

The latest-generation of MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology engines have been installed under the bonnet, with three units available from launch – the MINI Cooper Clubman, MINI Cooper D Clubman and MINI Cooper S Clubman.

CO2 emissions are as low as

Stressed?

New research on driving stress for Toyota Hybrid has found that 17:30 is officially the most stressful time to drive on Irish roads, with one in five saying that they feel most anxious behind the wheel at this time.

A majority of 55% of Irish people admitted to feeling stressed up to four times per week while driving.

This research was conducted in tandem with the release of findings from 'The Hybrid Experiment' conducted by i2 research, which found that over 80% of people felt less angry, frustrated and stressed,

109g/km, with fuel economy of up to 68.9mpg. New to the MINI brand is an eight-speed Steptronic transmission, available as an option on the MINI Cooper S Clubman and the MINI Cooper D Clubman. New MINI Clubman also gets a unique suspension set-up.

and happier and calmer in a hybrid car relative to a non-hybrid car.

The Hybrid Experiment was commissioned by Toyota Europe and aimed to investigate the effect of different powertrains – hybrid, petrol, diesel – on the driver experience.

Rome, renowned for its stressful and challenging driving conditions, was chosen as the setting for the experiment.

Significantly lower levels of stress were recorded by all participants after driving a Toyota Hybrid through traffic than a non-Hybrid.

24 HR RECOVERY SERVICE • JAMES FOY AUTO SERVICE • Full Crash Repair Service • Air Conditioning Service • Diagnostic Checks • Servicing all makes & models • Excellent selection of Tyres • Puncture Repair • NCT Preperation • Wheel Balancing & Alignment • We cater for any make or model Dromore West, Sligo • Tel: 096-47052. Mob: 087-2541243 • www.recoverysligo.com

Pets

A pet keeps you young & on the move sound. This can quickly dispel the feeling of loneliness. They are ideally caged in pairs which scarcely increases the amount of care required. Budgerigars are particularly popular and, given lots of patience, can even learn to speak. Some parrots, such as large Birds , are not considered suitable as pets due to their long life expectancy among other things.

First stop when looking for a pet is the animal sanctuary. For small animals, birds and fish, specialist pet shops are a good idea. But first of all, senior citizens should be absolutely clear who can take over caring for their pet in the event of illness, care dependency or even death.

D

ogs, cats, birds & co already enrich the homes of millions of senior citizens. There they provide an antidote against loneliness and boredom. And they’ve been proven to have a positive effect on health. Which animals are the most suitable as pets depends on individual needs and means. Experts from Maxi Zoo help decide on an animal housemate.

People with both legs planted firmly in working life often have little time for a house pet. The situation is different in old age – animal lovers acquire a pet then because they can devote their

full time and attention to it.

The daily duties bring a structure and variety to life and that keeps the owner fit in both body and soul. The good thing about animals is they accept their owners as they are – it doesn’t matter in the slightest whether they are young or old.

Basically, any animal would be suitable for older people. In the end, it’s always a very personal decision, depending on preference and also state of health.

Birds are lively, alert and constantly provide an appropriate background

DOGS RESCUED FROM DOG MEAT FARM IN SOUTH KOREA

The Humane Society International has rescued 23 dogs from becoming someone’s dinner when they convince a South Korean farmer to stop slaughtering dogs into growing crops for food. The dogs have been screened and have had a full medical workup, and should be available for adoption very soon.

Elderly pet owner leaves heartbreaking note after being moved to a nursing home

The unnamed owner was forced to give up the pets because they were being moved into a nursing home A mother and daughter pair of cats who were given up by their elderly owner along with a heartbreaking note

have found new homes.

The desperate owner could no longer keep the cats due to being moved into a nursing home, and left a note along with her pets.

The note begged for help, and asked that the mother

and daughter cats - Jessi and Tiia - be kept together.

“Keep Together. Please help.

We are mum and daughter.

Spayed. Black and white (mum) Jessi, black (daughter) Tiia. Gone in to nursing home. "Kan’t keep them.

Sorry.”

The local RSPCA centre took the cats in, and the pair were quickly taken home by new owners after they heard their heartrending story.

Manager of RSPCA Stapeley Grange cattery Lee Stewart said: “It is heartbreaking to think these two cats were being left to fend for themselves."

“We are so pleased they have gone to new loving forever homes.

“They were such playful cats we thought they would

find new homes quickly.

“These were just two cats in our care. There are plenty more that are looking for new homes here at Stapeley.

If you are interested in giving these cats - or others in our care a loving new home please contact RSPCA Stapeley Grange."

Page 51 Mature Living

Breakaways

Active Breaks at The Villa Rose Boutique Hotel and V-Spa

Ballybofey, the Villa Rose is an ideal base to tour around or stay put and relax for the week, read the complimentary morning papers or book in for a relaxing spa treatment. If Group Active Retirement Breaks or Dancing for Pleasure is what you are into then call Leona on 074-9132266 today to request the 50+ Active & Dancing Brochure 2015.

Spring Midweek Breaks

1 B&B + Dinner €49pps • 2 B&B + 2 Dinners €99pps 3 B&B + 2 Dinners €139pps

*Includes 2-course Dinner, Refreshments on Arrival Complimentary Spa Session & 20% Vouchers for McElhinney's Dept Store

Dancing Holidays

4 Night Ballroom Break, Feb 22-26th €239pp 3 Night Ballroom Break, May 4th - 7th €185pp 4 Night Sequence Break, May 10th - 14th €239pp Call us for an Active & Dancing Brochure Today!

G

et away from it all and experience a relaxing midweek stay at the 4 star Donegal hotel with 3 nights B&B and 2 Evening Meals (2-course), complimentary refreshments on arrival and spa thermal session for only €139pps from Sunday Thursday this Spring. The Forge bar hosts live music every Sunday night. Treat yourself to some retail therapy at McElhinneys Department Store where you can avail of 20% off as a Villa Rose Guest.

Set in the heart of Donegal in the busy town of

Spring & Summer Group Rates Available - Contact Leona for more info.

4 Star, Family Owned, Town Centre hotel

Reservations: 074-9132266

Ballybofey, Co Donegal Email: reservations@villarose.net • www.villarose.ie

Active Retirement breaks in the beautiful costal town of Donegal

T

he Abbey Hotel is located on the main square of the beautiful coastal town of Donegal. The small harbour town lies at the heart of Co. Donegal making it the ideal place to explorer the north west. The superior 3-star Hotel is right next to Donegal Castle, Donegal Bay Waterbus, Craft

village, Donegal railway and heritage centre, and a short distance from Salthill gardens, 2 blue flag beaches and some of Donegal’s top walking and hiking trails.

Comfortable bedrooms each feature a flat-screen TV, telephone and individual private bathroom. Most rooms also overlook Donegal Bay and the River Eske.

The award winning Market House restaurant has a menu of excellent international cuisine. Guests

can dine in a room full of character, and drink from the wide selection of wines.

The Eas Dun Bar, with its unique 2-tier interior design, offers regular live entertainment and music almost every night of the year.

Guests have complimentary use of the leisure centre facilities next door, including a pool, spa bath, steam room and gym.

During your visit hotel offers complementary parking, free Wi-Fi in all rooms throughout the hotel and a voucher of Tea/Coffee and scone. No single room supplement Thursday to Sunday. For weekend rates please contact reception.

Active Retirement Breaks 2015 June, July & Aug!st

2 Nights B&B & 2 Dinners - €149pps 3 Nights B&B & 3 Dinners - €209pps 4 Nights B&B & 4 Dinners - €259pps

September & October

2 Nights B&B & 2 Dinners - €119pps 3 Nights B&B & 3 Dinners - €159pps 4 Nights B&B & 4 Dinners - €199pps Abbey Hotel, Donegal Town, Co. Donegal • Tel: 074-9721014 Email: oisin@abbeyhoteldonegal.com

www.abbeyhoteldonegal.com

...With so much to choose from, what better way to spend a day or so than at the beautiful Royal Marine Hotel…

A

short drive along the South East coast will bring you to Dun Laoghaire, where overlooking the bay you will find the Royal Marine Hotel. Steeped in history, and a favorite with the locals, this landmark hotel is an impressive sight on the Dun Laoghaire skyline. A hotel has stood here since 1828. Many celebrities, and even royalty have passed through its doors over the decades. In 2004 this magnificent old building closed for restoration, a painstaking labour of love by the present owners.

Situated in an elevated site on 4 acres overlooking Dublin Bay, the hotel has stunning views that on a clear day stretch as far away as Howth; and yet is still only a short journey from down-town Dublin. The original hotel has been extensively but sympathetically renovated with precise attention to detail.

And it is just this same attention to detail, we extend to you as our guest – whether overnight or simply joining us for a drink in our bar or dining in our restaurant.

The large bay windows and high ceilings of the Bay Lounge highlight the grandeur and historic feel that is central to the hotel style. Lavishly furnished it is a comfortable and ideal venue to meet friends and family for coffee, lunch or perhaps to enjoy the age-old tradition of afternoon tea whilst overlooking the gardens, with spectacular views of the harbour. Our resident pianist completes the ambience every Saturday afternoon.

Or perhaps dine in relaxed style in our Dún Bistro where the delights of the Restaurant are matched only by the professional friendly service and stunning views over the harbour. Serving an Early Bird Menu, Table d’hote

and a la Carte Menus.

Try out lively Hardy’s Bar for a local drink (named after the famous actors and world famous partners Laurel & Hardy who stayed in the original Royal Marine Hotel). Food served every day until 10pm. Live music every Saturday night.

The Pier Health Club offers state-of-the-art cardio and resistance equipment, free weight area and a luxury 18 metre swimming pool. We are proud to offer our members a spacious, relaxed and welcoming environment in which to exercise. Or simply retreat into the hushed tranquillity of the sansanaSpa (the only Failté Ireland ‘comprehensive’ spa in Dublin) and choose pampering delights from our extensive treatment menu.

With so much to choose from, what better way to spend a day or so than at the beautifully restored Royal Marine Hotel…

Join us at the 3-star Knock House Hotel and enjoy the beautiful countryside in the heart of County Mayo.

W

ith 68 comfortable, spacious rooms, our Hotel is a haven of peace and tranquility, the perfect setting for a relaxing break. Located adjacent to the famous Shrine and Basilica of Our Lady of Knock, we are a 20 minute drive from Ireland West Airport Knock and just 10 minutes from Claremorris Train Station.

Knock House Hotel is ideally positioned to visit Turlough House and Museum of Country Life, Westport House and Croagh Patrick, which are all within a 45 minute drive. And of course, Knock Museum is on our doorstep, capturing the unique and compelling story of the Apparition of 1879 and the fifteen ordinary people who witnessed this extraordinary event. Visitors can read original hand-written letters by people cured at Knock and listen to pilgrims sharing stories and memories of Knock. The Apparition is also set in the context of life at that time, from living in the thatched house to working in the forge.

During your break, we are happy to cater for your every need and it gives you an opportunity to make new friends and mix with like minded people. We have 6 bedrooms specially equipped for those with limited mobility. Enjoy fine dining in the Four Seasons Restaurant which overlooks a beautiful

garden and captures the magnificent spire of the Basilica.

We have earned a great reputation over the years for our food, wine and service. Lunches, snacks, hot and cold beverages available all day in our beautiful limestone Lounge.

To book your stay and avail of our special rates, please call Karen on 094 93 88088.

Visit the stunning Leitrim countryside 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 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.

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

O

Please mention Mature Living Leinster when booking

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

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

Why choose a Hotel when you can have the Luxury of a Resort

P

4 nights Dinner, Bed & Breakfast

€199 pp

5th Night B&B FREE

Offer Available Selected Dates Only – Call for Details

INCLUDES: Full complimentary daily and nightly entertainment program Transfers local Bus & Train Station Use of the leisure centre facilities

Escape to Breaffy House Resort to Relax, Unwind and Revive To Book: Call us now on 094 90 22033 or email to reservations@breaffyhouseresort.ie Bookings on line www.breaffyhouseresort.com Page 42 Mature Living February 2014

lanning a relaxing break away, the ideal location is Breaffy House Resort which is located in the heart of Co. Mayo. Set on 90 acres of gardens and rolling woodland. The House dates back to 1890, retaining some of its original Country House atmosphere whilst offering all of the luxury of a modern day hotel. The Resort is renowned for its warm welcoming staff with an excellent range of facilities. The Resort includes Spa, Leisure Centre with 20 metre pool, Sauna and Jacuzzi. The Resort offers deluxe rooms which include a range of suites, superior, standard rooms with all the facilities that your guests would require – direct dial telephone, multichannel colour T.V., radio, hairdryer, trouser press and tea/coffee making facilities.

This year we have put together an amazing offer of 4 nights Dinner B&B and 5th night B&B FREE when you book our Golden Breaks package. This offer includes 3 course dinner each night in the Mulberry Restaurant and breakfast each morning, along with 5th Night Bed & Breakfast free. Transfers can be

arranged from local bus and train stations based on minimum numbers. Complimentary on site parking should you wish to drive. We have chosen a selection of arrival dates each month which means we can provide in-house activities such as wine tasting, table tennis, bowling, grow your own garden and pottery painting. This is the ideal location to explore Mayo.

The Hotel is just 20 mins away from the scenic town of Westport. All guests have complimentary use of the swimming pool, sauna, seam room, Jacuzzi, and gym. You may also take part in one of our many classes, which include Aqua Aerobics, Over 55’s workout and the increasing popular Zumba. If you fancy some pampering, enjoy some time out in Breaffy Spa. Which offers a range of facial, body and massage treatments to leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at leisure between 7:30am –10:30am each morning and Dinner each between 6:30pm – 8:45pm. The Mulberry Bar serves food for 12-9pm each day for snacks, light bites and main courses.

Breakaways

The Luxury Glenlo Abbey

A

Manor to which you can become accustomed...

Galway’s 5 star luxury hotel, Glenlo Abbey, is

the ideal choice for your breakaway in Galway, with unrivalled personal service it is the perfect place for either

relaxation or an activities based holiday.

The wildness of Connemara is right on our doorstep and the

vibrancy of Galway City is only minutes away.

The ideal location for exploring the West of Ireland - With its superb dining options. including the River Room Restaurant overlooking the estate, the Oak Cellar Bar, and three elegant Receptions Rooms, where guests can enjoy a relaxing drink, afternoon tea, or take time out to relax and read the newspapers.

And the PULLMAN RESTAURANT ABOARD THE ORIENT EXPRESS, a 66 seater restaurant comprising of 2 of the original carriages from the Orient Express is a “must”

Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa

O

ffering one of the best locations in and around Dublin, Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa has become known as one of the finest new hotels in Ireland. The best of both worlds allow you to easily access all that Dublin city centre and surrounding shopping has to offer and yet the tranquillity of Dunboyne Village is on the doorstep.

Seiod Spa has 18 treatment rooms and a luxurious hydrotherapy pool.

The Terrace Lounge is a delightful conservatory area overlooking the magnificent gardens and is a perfect setting to unwind with a pre-dinner drink.

The 2AA Rosette Award Winning Restaurant – The Ivy, where the journey through your taste buds takes over and for wine lovers a special treat is in store. Any visit to Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa would be incomplete without a visit to the Sadlier Bar, where locals gather and mingle with

guests in a friendly festive setting.

Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa features 145 oversized modern guest rooms; 2 junior suites featuring separate bedrooms and living room areas and two presidential suites that must be seen to be believed.

Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa – a must visit hotel with great service and stunning facilities. Visit www.dunboynecastlehotel.com and see the amazing special offers.

Harbour Hotel, Galway

T

he Harbour Hotel is the ideal venue to experience the

excitement and vibrancy of Galway. The Harbour Hotel deliver the

complete experience with their City Centre waterfront location is

right in the heart of the Galway City with ample car parking space, and unrivalled hospitality, it couldn’t be easier.

Just a 3 minute stroll from our hotel will take you to Eyre Square and the city centre, including Shop Street and the bustling bars & cafés of Quay Street. Meander along the cultured streets and enjoy the pace of life unique to the West of Ireland. You are assured of a very warm welcome upon arrival.

Our team will welcome you to our modern, comfortable, family owned hotel and take excellent care of you throughout your stay.

Services Directory

Addic!on Treatment Centre Foxford, Co. Mayo

Call in confidence: 094"9256888 Email: hopehouse#eircom.net www.hopehouse.ie

Rehabilitation Cent!e specialising in the t!eat"ent of alcohol, dr#gs, gambling and other dependencies.

Hope House... “where recover$ begins”

Westport PADRAIC CRYAN Foot Clinic STONE WORK Westport, Co. Mayo

Based in Roscommon, Padraic Cryan Stone & Blockwork Services is an Irish company with over 16 years experience in the Irish Construc!on Industry that prides itself on exceeding customer expecta!ons and delivering all work on budget and within the agreed !meframe.

Chiropodist: Martin Mc Nally Tel: 087 222 6260

We provide General Building work from Restora!ons to New Builds, and Stoneworks and are happy to meet you at your convenience and provide you with a quota!on.

Call Padraic on (086) 2867950 today for a FREE no hassle quota!on

GIBLIN STONE ...everlasting

• Life Cover • Serious illness • Pensions • Accident Cover • Hospital Cover • Mortgage Protection • Health Insurance

€€€ AUGUST €€€ DISCOUNT MORTGAGE PROTECTION 10% OFF LIFE ASSURANCE 5% OFF

NB. (Best rates in the market, less applicable discount)

Brendan Cribbin QFA - Actual Insurances Mortgage Protection 10% OFF Breaffy, Castlebar, Co. Mayo

Life Assurance 5% OFF PHONE FOR A FREE CONSULTATION & QUOTATION 085-1518991 brendancribbin@actualinsurances.ie www.actualinsurances.ie John Gerard Noonan t/a Actual Insurances is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

DEAD AND WORN-OUT ANIMALS Contact: Tom Rogers Strokestown, Co. Roscommon SAME DAY COLLECTION SERVICE SERVICING LEITRIM & SLIGO FARMERS FOR OVER 20 YEARS

071-9634783 / 9633344 Only Licensed Knackers Yard & Service in NorthWest Lowest Prices and Daily Collection Guaranteed

Choosing a memorial for a loved one is a very personal thing.

Quality • Experience • Service

GRANITE COUNTERS & FIREPLACES IN MARBLE, GRANITE ALSO AVAILABLE, CALL US TODAY FOR DETAILS

Church Street, Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo Phone: James 087 9061833 • Brian 086 1957788

www.giblinstone.com

ARE YOU SERIOUS ABOUT LOOKING FOR A JOB? ..if so here is the perfect one for you!

EARN UP TO €500 PER WEEK

Working Monday to Friday, 9-5.

Selling advertising space in Sligo Now Magazine

IMMEDIATE START

No experience necessary but you will need good communication skills / telephone manner.

Telephone Seamus on 085-2498067 or email seamus@sligonow.ie

Services Directory

Roll-R-Doors, Derryhillagh, Castlehill, Ballina, Co. Mayo

Tel: 096-51382 • Mob: 086-1650132 info@rollrdoors.ie • www.rollrdoors.ie

Quad Servicing & Repair

Roll-R-Doors offer a full range of Domestic and Industrial Garage Doors and Accessories. Specialising in both replacement and removal of old doors with new garage doors and installation of new garage doors, Give Roll-RDoors a call on 086 165 0132 to see what we can do for your projects needs.

Middleton Travel Shane McDonagh Middleton Travel Sligo - People on the move

FREE CONSULTATION IN YOUR HOME OR OUR SHOWROOMS. Harmony Hill, Sligo Tel: 071-91-45810

We can cater for all your trips: • Family Outings • Airport Transfers • The Races • Golfing Trips • Sporting Trips • Stag & Hen Parties • Corporate Events • Office Parties

Tone Street, Ballina Tel: 096-24763 www.tegre.ie

Middleton Travel, 11 The Elms, Woodtown Lodge, Sligo Tel: 071-9162890 • Francie: 086-8143464 Keith: 087-2918668 Email: middletontravel@eircom.net www.middletontravelsligo.com

East Brothers GARDEN MACHINERY

McGowan's FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Tree Surgery and Agri Contractor

• Tree Pruning / Reduction • Tree Removal & Hedge Maintenance • Stump Grinding and Log Splitting Fully Insured

Tel: 087-2116836

TREACY COACHES BALLINA

Emmet St, Ballina, Co. Mayo Tel: 096-70669 Anytime

Email: info@ballinafuneralhome.ie Website: www.ballinafuneralhome.ie

• Petrol Chainsaws for Property Maintenance • Chainsaws for Agriculture and Horticulture • Electric / Cordless Chainsaws

BOYLE, CO. ROSCOMMON

Tel/Fax: 071-9662710 • Mobile: 086-2427554

Phone: 071-9162140 Market House, Market Yard, Sligo www.sligofuneralhome.ie info@sligofuneralhome.ie

All Services Provided Authorised representative of Horizon Funeral Planning Talk to us today for help and advice in your Pre-Need arangements

Daily Service to SLIGO departs Ballina at 7.30am and departs SLIGO IT at 5.15pm Monday to Friday * We Accept Travel Passes *

Enquiries tel: 096-22563

Services Directory

GS CONTRACTS

GORDON SHERLOCK

Specialists in tarmac & asphalt driveways Telephone: 071-91-30070 • Mob: 087-2969872

www.sligotarmac.com

Specialising in laying tarmacadam, asphalt and stone mastick asphalt.

From small household driveways to tennis courts, large industrial areas, farm roads, estates, car parks and more

• 25 years of experience in the Tarmacadam business • Free Advice and quotations • Fully insured

TEL: 096-72652 BOB: 087-9852827 • GERRY: 086-8581961

We are confident that our workmanship wil impress anyone, we can count on our past customers to verify our professionalism and attention to the finest detail.

• Water Analysis • Water Filtration • Water Softening • Well Drilling • Pump Supplied and Fitted • Rain Water Collection & Purification • Sewage Treatment Systems IN THE BUSINESS FOR OVER 25 YEARS

Email: waterteck@eircom.net Website: www.waterteck.com Phone: 086-8072249 071-9658976

WARNING!!!

Upto 80% of Heat Generated by an Open Fire and almost 20% of Heat from your Central Hea!ng System escapes up an open Chimney!

Prevent this wastage!

SLIGO Buying a Stove???

Talk to Terry first • Free Survey Available • Solid Fuel Stoves • Gas Fires

PHONE: 087-2066910 / 071-9197925

www.terrysstoves.com terrysstoves@gmail.com

www.ap-motors.eu

Unit 2, Ardnaree, Ballina, Co. Mayo

• • • • • •

Servicing 5% Discoun Panel Beating t Tracking • Parts Light Setting NCT Preparation Valeting • Recovery with th is Advert

Ariel Dym 096-70993 • 086-8978395

If your home looks difficult to enter the chances are a burglar will move on.

• Don’t leave spare keys outside. Use a KEY GARAGE. • Don’t leave car and house keys visible. Have you have a second car key? We can cut 90% of all car keys • Lock your back gate and install patio door locks and bolts • Find out who is calling by fitting a spy hole in the wooden front door and a door chain to a PVC or Wooden front door.

• Join your local Neighbour Watch or Community Alert scheme.

Burglars will be aware that someone maybe watching them.

For advice please call to us at Millennium House, Stephen St, Sligo Tel: 071-9144344 www.barton-smith.ie info@barton-smith.ie

Are you breathless when climbing your stairs?

Are you worried about falling on your stairs?

We can help!

Call Kieran on 087­834­3755

The Luxury FLOW 2 stairlift will glide you up & down your stairs effortlessly • Extended Warranties are available when you mention this advert.

• Call us now to arrange a FREE survey and quotation • Trust your safety on the stairs to us!

• Fully trained and manufacturer certified friendly fitters

Lo-call: 1850 818 500 Visit: www.irishstairlifts.ie

Email: homesinsula"on@yahoo.ie

Axis Business Park, Clara Road, Tullamore, Co. Offaly

Tel. 05793 – 51277

Steel Garden Sheds, Garages & Tegkon Custom Steel Buildings TEL: 086-240 7844 • www.candssheds.ie info@candssheds.ie

We use eZero • Powerwall External Insula"on The new genera"on Contractor ­ Grants up to €3600.00 of Insula"on • Cavity Wall / A$c Insula"on BER Grants up to €500.00 • Extensions, New Buildings, Roof, A$c Conversions, etc

‘Don’t delay, LAST chance to avail of grants’

Feature Article Services Directory

Aluminium & PVC Repairs

Professional Relationship Counselling Couples & Individuals

To windows, doors and patio doors

Expert patio door repairs!

• Rollers • Tracks • Hinges • Door Realignment • Locks • Multilocking systems etc

Fees Based on Personal circumstances

Ballina 096-21478 accordballina@eircom.net Castlebar 094-9022214 accordcbar@eircom.net Charlestown 094-9254944 accordcharlestown@eircom.net

Over 20 years experience servicing Irish windows and doors. Fully insured GLASS PARTS ETC REPLACED Brendan Gormley: 071-9183860 / 087-2562669

COMPOST FOR SALE

Pure Organic Compost ­ Ideal Soil Enricher

N5 Moneen Business Park, Castlebar, Co. Mayo Tel: 094-9026373 • Fax: 094-9024353 Email: info@walterdonoghue.com www.walterdonoghue.com

Furniture recovering and restoration including covering of chairs, 3 piece suites, headboards, car seats and boat seats.

Hotel and Bar seating, Office furniture and other Contract / Commercial furniture.

Repair of sails, tents and other outdoor gear for sports and leisure.

We provide a service of Colour consultancy and Interior advice.

We retail upholstery fabrics and essentials.

Collection and delivery can be arranged at a small fee, depending on distance.

Boradruma, Snugboro, Castlebar • Tel: 094 9023532 / 086 8350608 Open Monday - Friday: 9am - 5pm Visit us online at www.boradrumaupholstery.ie

DATING CLASSIFIEDS SINGLE GENT JUST RETIRED Likes gardening, weekends away, would like to mee nice lady 60’s for friendship or relationship.

Replies with a stamped envelope to box number 1250 at the address below.

SEPERATED GENTLEMAN Wishes to meet a down to earth lady of any age. I am a gentle romantic guy and I like being outdoors. best wishes, Eddie. Replies with a stamped envelope to box

number 1255 at the address below.

LOVEABLE, SINCERE SECURE SINGLE GENT, 66 Own home, likes music, travel, reading, gardening, social drinker, non smoker would like to meet affectionate lady with no ties 55-70, Replies with a stamped envelope to box number 1260 at the address below.

FREE DATING* CLASSIFIED

YOUNG AT HEART MARRIED LADY I am in my seventies, I like music, travel and cooking. Would like to hear from Male and Female readersto share interests and friendship.

Replies with a stamped envelope to box number 1265 at the address below.

SINGLE LADY, Would like to meet man late forties - early fifties. I have m,any interests,

• 50 Litre Sealed Bags • Cubic Metre Sacks Compost / Veggie Mix • Bulk Loads Trailer pickup & can deliver

Union Wood Road, Ballisodare Call to Yard or Phone 087­9756455

love music, all osrts. Please reply if you are interested.

Replies with a stamped envelope to Box number 1201 at the address below.

MALE 60’S Enjoys swimming, walking, cooking, the outdoors, gardening, people. Would like to meet a kind sincere female for company / friendship. Life could be better with you. North Mayo area.

Please reply if you are interested.

Replies with a stamped envelope to Box number 1205 at the address below.

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UP FOR A BIT OF CRAIC Mature prof. Lady, good sense of humour is looking for ‘kinda’ handsome, good natured, GSOH, sensible, house trained gent, 65ish plus, who likes fun date out, cosy nights in, dancing & singing to a new beginning with a happy ending. Replies with a stamped envelope to Box number 1111 at the address below.

To Reply to Any Box number, simply place your letter in a Blank, Stamped Envelope and then send this into us at: Dating Section, Mature Living Magazine, Office 3, Unit 7, NW Business Park, Collooney, Co.Sligo.

Chem­Dry© Sligo, Carpet and upholstery cleaning service

Succcsssfully cleaning carpet and upholstery in County Sligo since 1989.

Give your carpets and upholstery a chance of a second life by calling Chem­Dry Sligo.

071­9143519 and we will rejuvenate them for you. ©

We also clean and seal !les and grou!ng (walls and floors of bathrooms, halls, kitchens, shower rooms and pa!os) Call 071­9143519 for advice, consulta!on and quota!on

323 Ferndale, Cartron Point, Sligo • Serving all County Sligo.

All franchises are independently owned and operated.