55 & Better Senior Expo

55

and better

SENIOR EXPO June 20, 2012 9 am - 3 pm

Chilson Senior Center 700 E 4th St. • Loveland Enjoy: • Over 25 Vendors • Seminars throughout the day • Demonstrations • Drawings and Prizes!

Register at individual booths for drawings and prizes!

Sunday, June 17, 2012

55 AND BETTER

Page 1.

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This is the season for fun!

The Seasons Club at McKee Medical Center is a free program that helps people, age 50 or better, get the most out of life through health promotion, education and recreation. As a member of the club you’ll receive: • • • • •

A variety of fun day, evening and extended trips Participation in our pioneering Posit Science Brain Fitness Program and software Medicare and health insurance consultations Educational programs, classes, and activities tailored to your specific interests and needs Community discounts

To become a member or for more information call 970-635-4097

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55 AND BETTER

Sunday, June 17, 2012.

Contents

Page 4 How to lead a healthy lifestyle 5

Stay safe when in the bathroom

6

15 minute activities to a better you

Planning for retirement Page 8

9

T his message is

Maintain your credit history as you age

10 Downshift to a different career 11 Prevent hearing loss

for people who want to get more out of life.

13 Protect yourself from identity theft 14 A mature guy’s guide to the road

Mention this ad at the Senior Expo and receive a free gift.

Editorial

Advertising

Summer Stair Marketing & Publications Editor 303-473-1212 stairs@dailycamera.com

Linda Story Advertising Director 970-635-3614 lstory@reporter-herald.com

Contributing Writers

Cover Design

Dominique Del Grosso

Other Content

McClatchy-Tribune, Article Resource Association

Sunday, June 17, 2012

(970) 669-3100

2101 S Garfield • Loveland, CO www.good-sam.com

Linda Larsen

Photos

Article Resource Association, Shutterstock All faiths or beliefs welcome. 08-G0605 17-295975

55 AND BETTER

Page 3.

A well rounded you Staying mentally, physically and socially active is important to a healthy lifestyle Dominique Del Grosso For the Reporter-Herald

As the years go by, things change—some for better or worse. When we’re young, we think getting older equals divine wisdom, joyous accomplishments and freedom. Although that can be true, getting older also amounts to more aches and pains. Mobility, balance, strength, flexibility and liveliness often don’t come as easily as they once did.

Aging is a reality everyone faces, and none of us can out-run, defy or ignore it entirely. Staying connected to your life and those around you can positively alter the way you view the aging process. Actively engaging in activities centered on being healthy in mind, body and spirit can distract, enhance and refocus your aging perspective.

PURPOSEFUL AGING Getting older can be downright frustrating, as joints creek in ways you never thought possible, sitting or standing for long periods of time is painful and your young, endless-energy seems like a lifetime ago. The thing is, like most hard things in life, you can allow the negatives to rule your attitude or you can choose to be positive and face it head-on.

This “can-do” attitude is one Trisha Campbell, activities and marketing coordinator for The Courtyard of Loveland Assisted Living, wholeheartedly supports and lives by. “You can either

Does this sound familiar?

• Sounds are clear, but you miss certain words, which makes conversation frustrating • You only have trouble hearing in some situations like in a restaurant • Sometimes you hear a loud ringing in your ears

sit around and think about everything that’s wrong or get up and get moving. Once you’re up and doing something, you forget about the things that can get you down,” she says. “Staying active

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keeps depression at-bay. The people who get out, they have better mobility, more confidence and their day goes by much faster.”

A major part of harnessing this kind of attitude is simply accepting the reality of what is. Unfortunately, none of us can change the circle of life, because aging is an important part of that cycle. Taking the first step toward a positive attitude is relatively easy. Turn your focus inward to determine how you enjoy spending your time and what interests you. Once you figure that out, participating in those activities is where the fun beings.

ACTIVELY ENGAGING IN AGING Some people enjoy taking part in physical activities, while others enjoy mental exertions or social events from walking, dancing, crocheting, fishing to crossword puzzles, reading or mediation. Getting in-touch with what you enjoy will help you find the fulfillment you may be missing. And no matter your age, mobility or physical obstacles, anyone can find fulfilling interests.

Elaine Brush, program supervisor with the City of Loveland Parks & Recreation Department, says identifying things you enjoy is key to staying consistent in attitude and mindset. “If you find enjoyment with the activity you are more likely to participant more frequently and longer durations,” she says. “And the health benefits can include enhanced memory and learning, decreased feelings of stress and anxiety and improved sleep.”

Staying active is also a great way to socialize. When you have friends to share the

Kevin Certified Financial PlannerTM Professional (970) 622-2366

7 steps to bathroom safety

process with, getting older doesn’t seem as daunting, but rather something you can relate about instead. “Those who really try to enjoy life keep a good spirit about them,” Brush says. “Staying active gives people confidence, balance and peace. People laugh together and enjoy themselves, which is so worth it. It’s a great way to show support for one another.”

With age, you have your good days and the not so good days, but the important thing is push ahead in the best ways you can. Get involved with friends, activities and the community or in whatever capacity you can and may it bring you nothing but joy.

Paul Chartered Financial ConsultantTM (970) 669-9720

One in three seniors over the age of 65 will experience at least one fall annually, according to the Centers for Disease Control. The bathroom is one of the most dangerous rooms in the home for the elderly. Slick floors, small spaces, sharp edges and few things to grasp make mobility difficult and increase chances for dangerous falls.

“We want seniors to live safely and comfortably in every part of their homes. It’s important that senior homeowners are aware of the challenges independent living can present and take the appropriate precautions,” says Larry Rothman, Roto-Rooter’s director of plumbing.

Roto-Rooter, America’s largest provider of plumbing and drain-cleaning services is offering tips on what to install in the bathroom to keep it safe for loved ones so they can maintain an independent lifestyle.

• Equip showers and surrounding walls with sturdy grab bars anchored to wall studs so they can support the full weight of an adult. Some portable safety handles use super strong suction cups and are easy to apply and remove.

• Consider installing nonskid tape or mats on the floor of a shower or bathtub.

• A shower chair is also a safe solution that can be easily placed where balance is a challenge.

• Flexible handheld shower wands with an on/off button might be easier to use than a traditional shower head.

• Toilets can be replaced with ADA-approved raisedheight models to lessen the chance of a harsh fall.

•Check temperature settings on water heaters, as water hotter than 120 F can scald skin.

• Some faucet handles are difficult for arthritic hands to grip and turn. These should be replaced with models that are easier for seniors to use.

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55 AND BETTER

Page 5.

Big-impact health activities you can do in 15 minutes or less Article Resource Association

The American baby boomer generation isn’t content sitting still - they live full lives working, traveling and pursuing their favorite hobbies. Age is only a number for this determined group whose population is pushing an estimated 78 million. If you are one of the many active baby boomers, you understand your health is a priority, but that doesn’t mean you want to spend long hours each day making sure you stay well. Luckily some of the best things you can do for yourself only take a matter of minutes each day.

Dr. Wendy Bazilian (wendybazilian.com), a doctor of public health, registered dietitian and author of “The SuperFoodsRx Diet: Lose Weight with the Power of SuperNutrients,” knows the importance of optimizing health for baby boomers. Simple healthy activities, when done on a daily basis, can have a huge cumulative effect on health and wellness. Here are four big-impact health activities from Dr. Bazilian that you can do in 15 minutes or less.

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1. BE FLEXIBLE WITH GENTLE STRETCHES Stretching might seem like a basic physical activity, but its positive effects can be substantial. Especially for boomers, stretching for five to 15 minutes each day can help keep muscles and joints flexible, and help increase overall body health. Plus as you age, stretching can help maintain your mobility levels and decrease the risks of falls. Try gentle stretches to get your blood flowing in the morning or before you take a walk. Want to try something different? Yoga blends stretching and strength for a wonderful workout for people of all ages.

Time requirement: 15 minutes or less 2. GET AN OIL CHANGE – IN YOUR KITCHEN The right kind of oils can benefit your health and wellness, and the wrong ones can put you at risk for high cholesterol, heart disease and even cancer. Cooking healthy means stocking your pantry with the right kinds of oils so you can enjoy the foods you love the right way. Two to keep on hand are extra virgin olive oil and organic grapeseed oil.

Olive oil contains monounsaturated fats which can help boost healthy HDL cholesterol while at the same time help to reduce unhealthy LDL cholesterol levels. Lower cooking temperatures or cool/room temperature usage is best. Organic grapeseed oil has a more neutral flavor and a high smoke point, allowing for higher temperature cooking while using a lighter hand in measures with this healthier cooking oil.

Time requirement: five minutes or less

often don’t get as much as they need. Include food sources like wild salmon and sardines, as well as plant sources like walnuts and flaxseeds.

Luckily, you can fill a nutritional gap by incorporating a high-quality fish oil supplement into your daily routine. A high-quality supplement can mean more benefit to your health; Ultimate Omega-D3 from Nordic Naturals is a good example and great option.

Time requirement: two minutes or less

4. EAT MORE FRESH FRUITS AND VEGGIES Few foods can provide the high levels of nutrients your body needs than fresh produce, yet more than 80 percent of us are not getting enough. It’s important to aim to make half your plate fruits and vegetables at meals every day.

And try to incorporate fresh fruits and veggies daily, and don’t forget about frozen and dried options without added sugars or preservatives.

They’re super nutrient-rich, too. The tasty options are endless - from berries, apples, bananas, and cherries to broccoli, tomatoes, carrots, cabbage, and kale. Be adventurous and try a new recipe that features a veggie you’ve never had before.

Or, taste local flavors by visiting your neighborhood farmers market.

Whether for a snack or with a meal, fresh produce is great for any baby boomer’s diet.

Time requirement: five minutes or less

3. CONSIDER TAKING AN OMEGA-3 FISH OIL SUPPLEMENT Recently, there’s been a lot of talk about omega-3 essential fatty acids and their ability to prevent common disease as well as benefit brain and overall health. Because you can only get these essential fats through what you eat, Americans

55 AND BETTER

Page 7.

Planning for Retirement Summer Stair Reporter-Herald

We’ve all heard the phrase: It’s never too early to start saving for retirement. And, while that’s true, how much you’ve saved and actually need saved to have a comfortable retirement can be a hard thing to determine.

Josh Miller, president of Colorado Financial Management in Loveland, says it is important to remember that each individual situation is going to be different and that no retirement plan is going to be the same.

One of the best places to start retirement saving is through an employee plan, says Miller.

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If your employer offers a 401K plan, it is easy to put part of your paycheck in and it is tax deferred until you start taking distributions out.

Even better, is a lot of employers offer a match or a profit-sharing plan. “This way you are getting a little bit extra on top of what your are already saving,” Miller says.

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Another option available to those saving for retirement are Traditional and Roth IRAs. Miller says having different choices and multiple accounts of where you can draw your money from is always a good idea.

PLAYING CATCH UP By age 50, even the government knows you are thinking toward retirement. For those who are 50 and older, they can put more money into their savings plans. This Catch Up Provision is different from year to year, but in 2012 it allowed for those older than 50 to defer an extra $5,500 into their 401K plan, so instead of the $17,000 allowed, those 50 and older could defer up to $22,500. Contributions toward an IRA in 2012 were $5,000, but for those 50 and older they could contribute up to $6,000.

GETTING TO THE RIGHT NUMBER Miller says the biggest thing that people don’t think about is what their expenses are going to be in retirement. “Seniors may reduce their mortgage, but you have to remember you will have more health care costs and a lot of these could be out of pocket.”

While there are several websites out there where you can do projections on what you need to save, Miller says it can be helpful to sit down with an advisor and go through each individual calculation and come up with a plan. Then review that plan annually and make sure you are still on track to meet your end goal.

Just remember it’s never too late to get started, but the earlier you do start the easier it will be. Plan early and well so you can have a comfortable retirement.

Maintain your credit history as you age You’ve spent your whole life managing your money with flawless proficiency. You have a sparkling credit score and very little debt. But is it possible to get to a point where you have so little debt that you could actually fail to register a credit score?

For senior individuals who have paid off most of their major debts, such as home and auto loans, and don’t use credit cards or store retail credit on a regular basis, the possibility of becoming “unscoreable” exists.

This can happen because credit score models rely on recent credit activity in order to generate an accurate score.

If all recorded credit activity has stopped, then there’s no recent information to use as the basis for a credit score.

As a recent Experian study points out, older individuals tend to have better credit scores, so it’s important to do what you can to sustain yours.

WHY IS HAVING A CREDIT SCORE IMPORTANT FOR SENIORS? If you’ve paid off your mortgage and have plenty of savings on hand to last you the rest of your life, you might wonder why maintaining a credit score would be important. Although you may not be planning on taking out another home loan or making other major purchases on credit, you may need a score for other life events, such as: • Financing unexpected needs • Applying for rental housing • Establishing an account with a cellphone provider or other utility • Acting as a co-signer on a loan • Entering into a reverse mortgage HOW TO AVOID BECOMING “UNSCOREABLE” While it may seem logical to close accounts that you

don’t use or need, you can keep your score active by maintaining them. This is especially important if you’ve paid off your mortgage and auto loans.

VantageScore, which has the ability to provide a credit score to a broader population of consumers with limited credit histories, recommends keeping at least one credit card active. It’s a good idea to use each of your accounts at least once every 24 months so that your payment data gets reported to the three national credit reporting companies (CRCs) - Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.

If you want to close out credit card accounts, it’s best for your credit profile if you keep the oldest accounts active. Credit score models put greater emphasis on the older credit accounts in your credit files because it demonstrates that you have a reliable history of on-time payments.

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Downshifting careers for a more fulfilling life Article Resource Association

When 60-plus-hour weeks, expensive professional suits and excessive stress become too much, many high-powered professionals trade in their high-paying careers for a more fulfilling life.

Called “downshifting,” the move allows former CEOs and company presidents to find more balance between work and life.

The phenomenon of downshifting is due in part to generational differences between baby boomers and older generations, says Catherine Mallozzi, director of career services for Everest University in Melbourne, Fla. While older generations saw work as something mandatory – yet not necessarily enjoyable – baby boomers have always believed they deserve fulfilling lives and careers.

“When you are stuck in the rat-race trying to climb the ladder to career success, you often have to put so much of your life on hold. You may end up sacrificing time with your family, not giving yourself time outdoors, or putting your hobbies and passions on pause,” Mallozzi says.

“Downshifting is one way that professionals are redefining their priorities. They recognize that perhaps their new careers won’t be as lucrative, but they will be more fulfilling.”

Traditional working environments have dramatically changed over the past few decades.

These work environments now include part-time, flex-time and work-from-home options, giving employees much more flexibility in balancing their interests in life. For example, workers can

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decline new projects, take on fewer projects or try to change work arrangements.

“If you aren’t ready for a complete career change, you still have a number of options. For example, bargain for more vacation time instead of that annual raise.

Or see if you can work from home or move to part-time work,” says Mallozzi.

But for some, small changes in the working environment aren’t enough. Many wake-up calls can encourage a complete career change. Whether it is the death of a close friend, a divorce, or getting that dreaded pink slip because your company is downsizing, many professionals realize that life is too short to stay in a career that isn’t allowing them to enjoy a personal life on the side.

For those who might be considering downshifting, it’s important to weigh how a career change will alter their lives.

“You have to take your finances into consideration,” says Patrick Wehner, business department chairman at Everest University in Tampa.

“A lot of planning needs to happen before you make any big changes. Specifically, you need to be thinking about how to meet costs of your insurance, children’s education, mortgage payments and retirement savings. That being said, with careful planning, changing careers can be

done well and can be incredibly satisfying.”

In addition to financial planning, downshifting may also require going back to school.

“Many downshifters want to open a new business – perhaps a bed and breakfast, or local used book store or massage therapy business,” says Wehner. “Starting a new business in something you are passionate about is a great way to find a fulfilling career, but at the same time, you want to make sure you have the knowledge you need to be successful. For example, if you want to become a massage therapist or bed and breakfast owner, you may need to take massage therapy classes, or basic accounting and entrepreneurial courses before making that leap.”

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Don’t let your world fall silent Article Resource Association

Larry Crum didn’t realize how bad his hearing really was until he was hunting one afternoon with some friends. He couldn’t hear a wild boar grinding his teeth just a few yards away.

As a 44-year-old husband, father and head pastor of the First Church of the Nazarene in Rochester, Mich., Crum’s life was slowly falling silent.

When he realized he couldn’t fully participate in conversations with his family and congregation members, he began to wonder what else he could be missing.

“More than 48 million Americans suffer from hearing loss, and many of those individuals are oblivious to the small details of life they’re missing out on,” says Dr. Angela Flores, director of Education and Training at Siemens Hearing Instruments, Inc. “Unaddressed hearing loss can lead to social isolation, increased anger and depression. A recent study from the U.S. National Institute on Aging shows adults who experience hearing loss may even face a greater risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.”

With the baby boomer generation reaching its greatest numbers at 77 million, our nation’s state of

health is of great concern. The number of Americans struggling with hearing loss increases by the day.

Hearing aids from a generation ago carry the stigmas of being clunky, uncomfortable and ineffective. And many image-conscious Americans ignore their hearing loss because acknowledging it brings negative attention and a perceived weakness.

But hearing aid manufacturers have made significant strides in enhancing the natural performance, look and size of the latest hearing aids. Even added benefits, such as Bluetooth-enabled accessories and waterproof features, further enhance your lifestyle. Current sophisticated technology enables wearers to distinguish voices from noise and block out background sounds in crowded areas.

“Many boomers do not realize the advancements hearing aids have made,” Flores says. “Today’s devices are smaller, stronger and offer much more of a pleasant listening experience than in years past.”

Prevention is by far the best option. Flores suggests turning the volume down on your television and mobile phones, wearing ear protection and having your hearing tested regularly starting at the age of 50.

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difficult once Crum’s hearing began to decline.

The cause of Crum’s hearing loss? Genetics mixed with a life of heavy noise exposure. He spent 12 years working in an automobile factory and has been a hunter all of his life - a costly combination.

“I struggled for years to hear the details of life - among my family, my grandchildren, members of my congregation and out within nature,” Crum says. “Conversations with my granddaughters were often difficult, not to mention conversing with my parishioners in a crowded foyer.”

Success came when Crum was fitted with a behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aid from Siemens the Motion 701.

With Siemens BestSound Technology, Crum now enjoys the clarity he needs in communicating with his congregation and family in a variety of settings, as well as the detail he needs while hunting. A handheld remote streamer, the Siemens Tek, even offers Crum Bluetooth wireless connectivity to his television and mobile phone.

“Today’s boomers are far more active and technologically advanced than the previous generation, and many of them look to technology to both enhance their lives and solve their challenges,” Flores says. “It’s amazing to see wearers enjoy sound with their hearing aids while swimming, biking and living a fulfilling everyday life. But even still, many boomers experiencing hearing loss wait an average of seven years

before getting their hearing tested.”

Prevention is by far the best option. Flores suggests turning the volume down on your television and mobile phones, wearing ear protection while mowing the lawn and in other loud environments, and having your hearing tested regularly starting at the age of 50.

For those already experiencing hearing loss, go see a hearing care professional near you to receive a pain-free audiogram and discuss your hearing aid options. According to Flores, early treatment can prevent greater loss down the road, not to mention better your life sooner rather than later.

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Tips to help you avoid identity theft Article Resource Association

Tommy and Susie aren’t the only ones who love Grandmom and Grandpop. Identity thieves love seniors too.

Identity theft among Americans 50 and older is rising, according to the U.S. Department of Justice’s Bureau of Justice Statistics. In 2010, more than 3.5 million households headed by people 50 and older experienced identity theft, according to bureau figures.

Identity thieves find seniors attractive targets for a number of reasons, according to the FBI, including for their financial stability. Seniors are more likely to have savings, own a home and have good credit. Fortunately, taking precautions - including monitoring one’s identity and credit through products like ProtectMyID.com - can help seniors reduce their risk of identity theft.

Two types of identity theft that have targeted seniors in the past are phone scams and medical fraud.

The FBI advises seniors to be wary of telemarketers and phone solicitations, since money lost through a phone call is very difficult to get back. The bureau recommends taking precautions when doing business over the phone, including: • Asking for written material before committing to any charitable request or special offer.

If you receive written material, review it with

someone you trust.

• Avoid dealing with companies you don’t know, and research unfamiliar companies through consumer agencies like the Better Business Bureau, state attorney general or National Fraud Information Center.

• Know who you’re talking to. Ask for the person’s full name, business title, phone number, physical address, mailing address and business license number. Verify the information before any transactions take place.

• Don’t pay in advance for services, and be wary of high-pressure tactics that require you to act immediately in order to receive a special price or offer.

• Medical fraud is another area of particular risk for seniors, who tend to have more doctor visits, hospital trips and prescriptions, and since

Medicare can be confusing and complicated.

It’s important to protect your identity by guarding Medicare and health insurance information, just as you would your bank account number or Social Security number. The FBI offers these tips for avoiding health insurance fraud: • Never sign blank claim forms or give a medical provider blanket authorization to bill for services.

• Make sure you understand what your medical providers will charge and how much of it you will be expected to pay out of pocket.

Review your coverage with your health insurance company so you understand what your financial responsibilities are.

• Don’t do business with anyone selling medical equipment door-to-door or over the phone, or who tell you that you can get services or equipment for free.

• Provide your insurance or Medicare information only to those who have given you a medical service.

• Keep accurate records of all your medical appointments and prescriptions.

Finally, if you’re having trouble keeping track of your medical information, ask for help from a trusted friend or family member. Navigating Medicare, health insurance and health care can be challenging. Getting assistance and staying on top of your medical information are key steps toward protecting your identity, and help minimize the risk of becoming a victim of identity theft.

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Road Trip A mature guy’s guide to the open road Article Resource Association

The classic American road trip is no longer just for cashless college kids; men of all ages are taking to the road for a unique vacation where driving is just as much a part of the trip as the destination itself. If you work hard every day, maybe it’s time to exchange that button-up for a casual T-shirt and gather your crew to experience the freedom and adventure of the open road.

If you’re wondering if a road trip is right for you and your more mature friends, a few practical measures can help ensure it is fun for everyone: STEADY GOES A FINELY TUNED MACHINE When you were younger, you probably drove through the night to

rack up as much mileage as possible. The mature road trip is just as much about the journey as it is about the destination. You and your friends will appreciate a more relaxed pace, which includes resting, eating right and enjoying all the road has to offer.

To make sure you stay on course without any problems, get your vehicle tuned up before you head out.

It’s a good idea to change the oil and check the tire pressure and coolant system before you get on the road. If your vehicle is due for some routine maintenance, have it done before you start your trip.

THE RIGHT VEHICLE Your days of cramming six guys in a small, rusty car are over. A reliable yet fun-to-drive pickup is perfect for your grown-up road trip

Conversations about you should include you.

with the guys. And since your stuff is probably going to be worth more than what you toted around during your college days, be sure to protect it. A lockable roll-up cover, like the tonneau cover line by Access Cover, will keep your belongings protected from the elements - both weather and criminal - while you’re on the road. Plus, a truck bed cover can help improve your vehicle’s gas mileage.

It’s also important to protect your gear and reduce it from shift-

ing all around with a Truck Bed Mat from Access Cover made from marine-grade carpet. Finally, even if your eyes aren’t what they used to be, you can still quickly access all supplies with a Truck Bed LED Light which can be mounted at the front or the rear of the truck bed.

WITH AGE COMES WISDOM TO PACK SMART As for what to pack, be sure to include an emergency roadside kit, first aid kit and any medications that

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you regularly need. Bring along a GPS device and your trusty mobile phone so you can stay on track and in touch.

In regard to food and supplies, you might also consider a set of dressier clothes if your dining tastes have matured since your fast-food days, but you’ll also want some comfy clothes for your time spent in the vehicle. Bring a couple pairs of shoes, one dressier and one comfy for walking. And if you’re not as keen on convenience store snacks as perhaps you were when you were younger, you’ll want to pack a small cooler of food and beverages.

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PLAN AHEAD FOR A GREAT TRIP Meandering can be fun, but having a plan can be rewarding too, especially when you’re older and prefer to know what to expect. Your taste in destinations has probably matured, so consult with your traveling partners and consider spots that appeal to your current interests and finances.

Has wine tasting become a hobby as you grew older? A tour of wine country may be in order. Perhaps you’ve discovered an interest in history? Consider taking the guys to a civil war re-enactment or to one of the country’s great historic cities.

Having a plan doesn’t mean that there won’t be moments of spontaneity, but it will provide you with a good course to follow so everyone can enjoy their time together.

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