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OurTimeFebruary 2011

700 Broadway Ave. East, Suite 9A • Mattoon, IL 61938(217) 235-5656

Publisher: Carl Walworth • Advertising Director: Tammy JordanGraphics: Tara D’Arcy, Rhiannon Kupferer, Michelle Rappuhn & Susan Young

Advertising: To place a display advertisement, call (217) 238-68358 a.m. - 5 p.m. weekdays or email advertising@jg-tc.com

To place classified advertising, call 238-6828 or 345-7085 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. weekdays

Connie Anderson, Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 238-6828Shannon Davis, Sr Sales Consultant . . . . . . . . . . . 238-6831Patti Lewis, Auto & Real Estate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .238-6832

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Figs are tasty fruits that boast many health benefits.They can be an important component of a balanced diet.

Figs have been grown and enjoyed for centuries. Native tothe Middle East, figs grow on a ficus tree and come in dif-ferent varieties. The fruit ranges dramatically in color andsubtly in texture depending on the variety enjoyed. Turkey,Greece and even California are the top fig producers in theworld.

It's possible to find figs from late summer through theautumn, depending on location. Fresh figs are very delicateand have a short shelf life. They can be kept in the refriger-ator for about two days after being picked. Most people arefamiliar with the sweet dried figs that are available year-round.

One may not be aware of the health value of figs. Firstand foremost, figs are high in potassium, a mineral thathelps control blood pressure. Individuals who have highblood pressure should consider figs as a natural alternativeto medication or to use in conjunction with traditionaltherapies. According to medical research, low intake ofpotassium-rich foods, coupled with a high intake of sodium,can lead to hypertension.

Another benefit of figs is their high fiber content. Fiber-rich foods help promote a healthy digestive system, movingfood through the bowels easily. Fiber helps satiate a hun-gry person faster, meaning it's a tool that can be used forweight loss. Fiber may also help reduce the risk of certaincancers, like breast cancer.

Rich in calcium, figs can also promote bone health. Indi-viduals at risk for osteoporosis can consider eating figs aspart of a bone-strengthening regimen.

Information published in the Archives of Ophthalmologystate that eating fruit every day can help lower age-relatedrisk of macular degeneration, one of the primary causes ofvision loss in the elderly.

Make figs a part of a healthy diet. Here are some ways toenjoy this fruit.

* Eat fresh figs right off the tree. They're sweet andrefreshing.

* To satisfy a sweet tooth, enjoy fig-stuffed cookies.* Grind up dried figs with a little honey and use as a

spread on toast or bagels.* Stuff fresh, poached figs with nuts and enjoy.* Add bits of dried figs to recipes that call for raisins,

such as tarts or cookies.*Put chopped fresh figs in rice, quinoa or couscous dishes.* Fresh figs can be stuffed with goat cheese and topped

with sliced almonds for a tasty appetizer at parties.

'Fig'ure Out How toGet Figs Into Your Diet

Article IndexFigure Out How to Get Figs Into Your Diet . . . . . . . . . . . .2Stay Healthy! Give Your Immune System a Boost . . . . . .3Take Control of Your Joint Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3Lose Weight After 50 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Easing the Burn: Recognize Causes of Heartburn . . . . . .4Plan Now for Long Term Medical Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Wrinkle Reduction Made Easy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Retirement Tip for Baby Boomers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Boomers Turning to Online Dating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Finding a Home Health Care Company to Trust . . . . . . .6Dogs Can Transform the Lives of People . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7Make the Move to Independent Retirement Living . . . . .8Downsizing Your Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9Get the Facts About Cataracts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10Fact About Glaucoma . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10New Hope for Those at Risk for Alzheimer’s . . . . . . . . . .11Healthy Aging Includes Safe Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Journal Gazette & Times-CourierO u r Ti m eFEB 2011 • 2

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Bring in this adThe body needs vitamin D tohelp absorb calcium, which isresponsible for keeping bones,muscles and even the hearthealthy and strong. Withoutenough vitamin D, men andwomen are at a heightened riskfor osteoporosis, a bone condi-tion in which bones become brit-tle and fragile due to tissue loss.Vitamin D is also beneficial forthose who love to exercise.Muscles that don't get enoughcalcium will cramp, hurt or feelweak, possibly leading to chron-ic muscle aches and pains. If thebody is getting enough vitaminD, muscles are less likely tocramp or ache. While it's possi-ble to include vitamin D in a dailydiet, it's also difficult becausethere are not many foods rich invitamin D. However, men andwomen can take a multivitaminor even a vitamin D pill to ensurethey get their daily recommend-ed amount of vitamin D.

Did You Know?

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Scientists are still racing to find a cure forAlzheimer's disease. Although there cur-rently is no cure for Alzheimer's, evidencepoints to strategies individuals can take tohelp slow the onset of the disease or helpprevent memory loss.

Although the symptoms and onset ofAlzheimer's disease are most notable duringa person's senior years, scientists say thatthe neurological changes of Alzheimer'sactually may start much earlier on -- asearly as when a person is in his or her 20s. Afrantic lifestyle, poor dietary choices andinactivity can contribute to Alzheimer's overone's lifetime. Recognizing behaviors orother habits that may contribute toAlzheimer's is the first step to makingchanges to prevent the condition.

Here are some facts to consider.* Obesity can increase risk for

Alzheimer's.* Smoking after the age of 65 makes a per-

son almost 80 percent more likely to developAlzheimer's.

* Diabetics are twice as likely to get thedisease.

* Genetics are only responsible for aboutone-quarter of Alzheimer's cases.

Although there aren't any magic pills orpotions, there are easy things anyone can doto reduce risk of Alzheimer's disease.

* Stop smoking and greatly reduce alcoholintake.

* Manage diet to control or prevent dia-betes.

* Avoid activities that can lead to headinjuries.

* Eat a balanced diet, and one that limitsprocessed foods.

* Enjoy brain-friendly foods, such asthose high in Omega fatty acids.

* Make attempts to reduce stress.* Avoid a sedentary lifestyle and behav-

iors that lead to obesity.* Prevent high cholesterol and hyperten-

sion.* Get plenty of sleep and restorative rest.* Keep the mind active with puzzles, read-

ing and other thought-inducing activities.The Mayo Clinic reports that exercise is

very important to keeping Alzheimer's atbay. In fact, it may be the most importantcomponent of preventing the disease. Scien-tists have documented that physical activityeffectively reduces the probability ofAlzheimer's disease and other dementiasover the duration of time. This makes exer-cise an essential part of anyone's lifestyle.

Journal Gazette & Times-Courier FEB 2011 • 11O u r Ti m e

Crossword Puzzle History

Thousands of crossword puzzles are a form of

entertainment for puzzle enthusiasts all around

world. They appear in newspapers and cross-

word books and serve as a tool for educating

young children. Crosswords have been in exis-

tence since the early 1900s.

Arthur Wynne, an English-born journalist at the

New York World, is credited with inventing the

crossword puzzle.

Wynne based his word-cross, as it was originally

named, after an ancient game that originated in

Pompeii, translated from Latin to mean "magic

squares," which Wynne had played as a child.

The first puzzle was a diamond shape.

The World published Wynne's crossword puzzle

in its 8-page "Fun" section as a mental exercise.

Thanks to its clever shape and easy clues, it was

a success with readers. Eventually other news-

papers wanted to publish crossword puzzles,

too.

By 1923, most newspapers in the U.S. and Great

Britain were publishing crosswords. Simon and

Schuster published the first crossword collection

book. The New York Times was one of the only

newspapers that did not publish crosswords. It

also frowned on comic strips.

However, the paper eventual-

ly succumbed, and printed

its very first crossword in

1950.

Today crossword puz-

zles appear in period-

icals across the

globe and can

even be produced

at home with computer

software.

Healthy Aging Includes Safe DrivingIt's common for men and

women to periodicallyreassess their lifestyle asthey age. With a goal towardhealthy aging, most peoplecan recognize the role theirlifestyle plays in their over-all health.

An often overlooked part ofhealthy aging is how some, ifany, physical changes haveaffected how a person driveshis or her automobile. Anyadult who has had to discussdriving with an elderly rela-tive knows how difficult sucha discussion can be, as auto-mobiles have long represent-ed a certain level of inde-pendence no adult wants to give up. But even those who haveyet to reach retirement age should assess their driving todetermine if aging has begun to affect their driving. Such anassessment can help men and women determine if it's time totake steps to make themselves safer drivers.

Assess EyesightA driver's eyesight is integral to his or her safety on the

road. Fortunately, eyesight can be corrected with prescriptionglasses or even surgery. Men and women who have troublereading street signs or seeing street markings might need aneye examination. Also, if dusk or nighttime driving has grownmore difficult it might be time for an eye exam.Difficulty see-ing while behind the wheel puts drivers and their passengersat significant risk, but such a problem might be solved by anew eyeglass prescription.

Poor visibility might have nothing to do with a driver'svision. It could be a byproduct of certain external factors. Driv-ers having trouble seeing might consider adjusting their seat.According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administra-tion, drivers should be able to see at least 10 feet in front oftheir own vehicle. A seat that is too low can decrease visibility.In addition, when taking a vehicle in for routine repairs, askthe mechanic to inspect the headlights to make sure they areworking and aimed correctly.

Assess the VehicleAs men and women age, they may find it is more difficult to

control a motor vehicle. Strength, coordination and flexibilitydiminish as a person ages, and this can affect a person's abili-ty to drive. But such physiological changes don't necessarilymean a person has to give up driving. It might just mean it'stime to find a car that's easier to drive. For example, manydrivers prefer vehicles with manual transmissions, feelingsuch cars are more fun to drive. However, as a person ages, theease of driving a vehicle with an automatic transmission,power steering and power brakes can make it much safer forthat driver to be on the road. Older drivers often find smallervehicles are easier to control, and such drivers should consid-er smaller cars if they're having trouble controlling their cur-rent vehicle.

Assess Personal Feelings Toward DrivingHow a driver feels toward driving can also play a role in that

driver's safety. Drivers who feel nervous or overwhelmedwhen driving don't necessarily need to abandon their vehiclesand embrace public transportation. Such feelings might becaused by a driver's medication. Medication can make peoplesleepy or cause dizziness. Either of those side effects can leadto confused drivers who are easily overwhelmed when enter-ing traffic. Discuss any symptoms with a physician, who mightknow alternative treatment options that enable drivers tosafely stay on the road.

For more information, visit the National Highway TrafficSafety Administration at www.nhtsa.gov.

New Hope for Those at Risk for Alzheimer's

Journal Gazette & Times-CourierO u r Ti m eFEB 2011 • 10

GETTHE

FACTSABOUT

CATARACTS

More than half of Americans age 65 and older willexperience cataracts, so many assume cataracts arejust a sign of aging. However, children, young adultsand even babies can have cataracts.

What Are Cataracts?A cataract forms when the lens of the eye becomes

cloudy. The lens is responsible for focusing light ontothe retina. The reason for cloudiness could be due toprotein changes in the lens. With nuclear cataracts,the most common kind of cataract, the inside of thelens is affected. In cortical cataracts, the outside ofthe lens is affected.

Cataracts grow quite slowly, meaning it can beyears before they impact vision significantly. Whilethey are often found in the elderly and progress asone ages, babies can be born with cataracts (knownas congenital cataracts). Cataracts can be the resultof steroid use. Also, younger adults can experiencecataracts from a systemic illnesses, like diabetes.

Cataracts may also formin smokers. Doctors say thatnot smoking can greatly reducethe risk for nuclear cataracts.

Research indicates that women are at a higherrisk for cataracts than men. It could be becausecataracts develop more pronounced as individualsage. Women generally live longer than men.

Cataract SymptomsSymptoms of cataracts include blurred vision,

dulled colors, appearance of halos around brightlights at night, and the need for brighter light whenreading. Symptoms of cataracts cannot be remediedwith reading glasses or other prescriptions.

Treatment for CataractsThe most common treatment for cataracts that

cause considerable vision impairment is surgery. Acataract will be removed only if it interferes withvision enough to prevent a person from driving,reading, or doing other essential activities. A "ripe"cataract can be extracted by an eye surgeon in aroutine surgery. If cataracts are present in both

eyes, surgery will be performed one at a time.The procedure is called phacoemulsification, or

phaco. An eye surgeon will make a small incisioninto the side of the cornea. A probe is inserted whereultrasound waves will gradually break up thecloudy cataract. A suction then removes the pieces.

Recovery time varies among patients but could bea week or two. The eye will be covered with a protec-tive wrap for a few days. Eye drops may have to beadministered daily. Eventually protective sunglass-es will block out bright light from the eye. Oneshould also avoid activities that could affect the eye,such as dusty conditions, changing a litter box,bending over or doing heavy lifting, or splashingwater in the eye.

Most outcomes of cataract surgery are successful.Vision is restored to at least 20/40, the acceptablelevel for driving.

For those experiencing vision trouble, consult withan optometrist to determine if cataracts are thecause.

Facts About GlaucomaAs people age, many expect their health to begin to deteriorate at

least a little bit. While science has made many advancements andpeople are now living longer and healthier lives, there are stillsome signs people recognize as signs of aging. And these signs canbegin as early as a person's 20s, growing more noticeable as timegoes on.

One side effect many inappropriately associate strictly withaging is glaucoma. Though commonly considered a disease of theelderly, glaucoma is not strictly limited to baby boomers and sen-iors citizens. While the Glaucoma Research Foundation notes thatthe elderly are at a higher risk for glaucoma, they are also quick topoint out that 1 out of every 10,000 babies born in the UnitedStates is born with glaucoma, illustrating the broad expanse of thispotentially harmful disease.

With that in mind, consider the following quick facts about glaucoma:• Roughly half of the 4 million Americans who have glaucoma are unaware they have it.• Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness. It's important to get routine eye examinations, as even those who do and receive adequate treatment for glaucoma will not necessarily avoid blindness. In fact, roughly 10 percent of people with glaucoma

who receive proper treatment still experience loss of vision. For those who never get treatment, the likelihood of blindness is even greater.• There are not necessarily symptoms of glaucoma. The impor-

tance of eye examinations is further emphasized by the very reallikelihood there will be no discernible symptoms of glaucoma, asdoctors often diagnose the disease before patients know they evenhave a vision problem. When vision loss begins, it does so withdiminished peripheral vision. Many people subconsciously

compensate by turning their head to the side. • According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, African-

Americans are particularly susceptible to glaucoma at a young age.

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Journal Gazette & Times-Courier FEB 2011 • 3O u r Ti m e

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The strength of a person's immune systemis generally what determines if he or she getssick. If two people are exposed to the samegerms, the one with a weaker immune systemtends to get sick.

Medical experts often agree that the elderlyand the very young can experience seriousand adverse reactions to seemingly mundaneillnesses. Simple colds or the flu can turn intopneumonia and other life-threatening situa-tions if left untreated. The culprit is often anunderdeveloped or compromised immune sys-tem.

As you age, your physiology changes. Bonesbecome less dense, hormones fluctuate, andyou may experience a weaker immune sys-tem. As a result, seniors are more susceptibleto illness than their younger counterparts.But boosting the immune system by changingyour diet, exercising and getting outdoors canbe a way to stay healthy.

Doctors say that it is possible to boost yourimmune system. The secrets lie in under-standing how the immune system works --and how your everyday life can offer yougreater protection.

In simple terms, the immune system is anetwork of cells and organs that blockunwanted visitors from wreaking havocinside of the body. Should a germ get by, thebody has strong defenders that can eliminatethe threat. These are known as antibodies.When you get an inoculation, a small amountof an offending particle is put into your bodyso that your immune system can develop anti-bodies against it. Should you be exposed tothat type of invader again, you will possessthe antibodies to fight it.

Your immune system can lose some of itsprotective properties if it is faced with a con-stant onslaught of diseases and must over-

compensate for poor health habits. But thereare ways to get your immune system back infighting shape.

1. Get plenty of sleep. Mom was right ... lackof sleep can affect the body's ability to func-tion correctly, which includes fending off dis-ease. Routine sleep deprivation can definitelyaffect overall health.

2. Reduce stress. Stress can have a numberof negative health implications. It slowlywears away at the immune system and leavesyou susceptible to a host of illnesses. Takemeasures to reduce stress as much as possibleto be healthier.

3. Exercise.Moderate exercise has beenshown to improve immune system function.However, overdoing it and running yourselfragged can actually be detrimental. Briskwalking or bike riding can be a great form ofmoderate exercise. Always check with a doc-tor before exercising to be sure it fits withyour lifestyle.

4. Engage in intimate relations. Sex causesthe body to release IGA, proteins from theimmune system that help the body fight infec-tion. Feel-good brain chemicals also play apart in fending off outside invaders.

5. Drink plenty of water. As you age, thethirst reflex becomes less pronounced, and aloss of taste may mean you pass up foods witha high water content. Dehydration can wreakhavoc on the body. Water is necessary to flushout toxins that could lead to disease.

6. Eat a rainbow of foods. Brightly coloredfoods are full of the antioxidants you need toimprove health and keep the immune systemin top form. Tomatoes have lycopene, berriesare a great addition to your diet and beansare high in fiber that keeps the digestive sys-tem working correctly.

Take Control of Your Joint Health(MS) -- With the population of Baby Boomers -- people bornbetween 1946 and 1964 -- at over 77 million, obesity at an all-time high, and initial signs of osteoarthritis often symptom free,the vast majority of the population is still relatively unaware oftheir current state and the importance of joint health.According to a recent study, approximately one-third of Ameri-cans 35 and older said their joints prevented them from doingtheir favorite sport or activity and more than 50 percent of themjust accepted that as part of the aging process. This leaves alot of people asking questions like, "What can I do?"T h e J o i n t J u i c e ( R ) j o i n t h e a l t h a s s e s s m e n t(www.jointjuice.com/joint-health.jsp) is one of the first interac-tive Web-based tools that allows individuals to easily evaluatetheir joint health and take proactive steps to improve it. Individ-uals are now able to log onto jointjuice.com for an illustrativeassessment that determines the condition of their joints basedon a series of 15 questions regarding Body Mass Index (BMI),diet, exercise, lifestyle, and joint health history.Renowned orthopaedic surgeon and founder of Joint Juice,Inc., a leading joint health nutrition company, Kevin R. Stone,M.D., created the joint health assessment as a means to edu-cate individuals about key factors that impact joint health and toprovide expert insight that can empower individuals to improvetheir joints -- such as weight loss, regular exercise or takingcrucial vitamins and minerals, including glucosamine andchrondroitin.The Joint Juice(R) joint health assessment not only featuresjoint health tips from Dr. Stone but also includes fitness tipsfrom celebrity ultramarathoner and long-time user of JointJuice(R) products Dean Karnazes. With these simple tips, peo-ple can take control of joint health and continue doing the activ-ities they love to do throughout their life.When suffering from joint health-related issues, it's imperativeto see a physician for a routine check-up at least once a year.Request an examination of your joints -- from head to toe -- andask for tips on protecting your joints from daily stress. To learn more about joint health or to take the Joint Juice(R)joint health assessment, visit jointjuice.com.

Stay Healthy!Give Your Immune System a Boost

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give them a 10 1/2. The fact that I got tochoose from a menu at meal times was abig plus in my book. I would have no prob-lem coming back to Douglas or referringfamily and friends for rehabilitation needs.”

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Another Successful RehabilitationDavid Kindelberger

Journal Gazette & Times-CourierO u r Ti m eFEB 2011 • 4

Lose Weight After 50Few people relish the steps needed to drop a few

pounds. But losing weight when you are youngermay be easier than it is for those 50 and older. That'sbecause metabolic changes and habits may interferewith weight loss.

As we age the body goes through differentchanges. For many, metabolism might just slowdown. That means whatever is eaten could takelonger to be digested and burned off. However,metabolism isn't directly linked to age It has to domore with muscle mass.

It is well known that muscle burns fat. The moremuscle a person has, generally the less fat there isand whatever fat is present is burned more quickly.As one ages, muscle mass may decrease. This con-tributes to metabolism changes, often resulting inmore fat.

There are different types of fat that can affectone's health.

Visceral fat: This is the most dangerous fat thatsurrounds the internal organs. It can be hard to getrid of this fat without healthy eating and exercise.

Subcutaneous fat: This fat is directly underneath the skin. Although it can be unsightlyand cause a person to be self-conscious, it isn't as dangerous medically and is the easier fat toremove with diet and exercise.

To help ensure health and promote greater weight loss, here are some tips to employ.* Get walking: Walking is a low-impact cardiovascular exercise that is beneficial to most

people. In addition to cardiovascular exercise, walking can help to reduce stress.* Eat smaller portions: As we age we may simply need less food to fill us up. Try scaling

back on portions.* Do toning exercises: Muscle strengthening exercises can keep muscles strong, which can

promote overall strength and better posture. It can also help to keep bones and joints alignedto reduce injury.

* Make gradual changes: Sudden changes could be jarring to the body. Plus, they're harderto accept than gradual changes. A little change here and there is most effective.

Easing the Burn: Recognize Causes of HeartburnAfter a big meal, many people experience a feeling of burning behind the

breastbone that seems to extend all the way back up to the mouth. Although itfeels like the heart and lungs are on fire, heartburn actually has nothing to dowith the heart at all.

Heartburn can be a symptom of GERD, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease.More than 60 million American adults experience acid reflux and heartburn atleast once a month. Roughly 25 million adults suffer daily from heartburn andexperience severe refluxes.

When stomach acid rises and comes in contact with the esophagus, or the tubein the throat that connects the mouth to the stomach, it can cause irritation.This irritation creates a burning sensation. Sometimes a foul taste occurs in themouth, and sometimes it can feel like food is at the back of the throat.

Heartburn can be caused by a few different factors. * A person may eat a meal that simply causes stomach upset. Sometimes

spicy foods or rich meals can be the culprit.* When the lower esophageal sphincter muscle (LES) is weakened or relaxed,

it cannot do its job of keeping stomach acid inside of the stomach.* Pressure on the stomach, such as tight clothing or bending over, may result

in acid reflux.* Stress can cause an over-abundance of stomach acid and a slowing down of

the emptying of the stomach.* Eating large meals right before bedtime.Oftentimes, making dietary changes or modifications to habits can alleviate

heartburn. Reducing the consumption of fatty, fried foods or foods that canweaken the LES may alleviate symptoms.

Individuals who have very frequent heartburn and acid reflux may need totake medication to help their symptoms. Proton-pump inhibitors are a series ofmedications that reduce the production of gastric acid. There are other ways toalleviate symptoms.

* Eat smaller meals and more slowly.* Don't eat large meals before bed. Wait at least three hours after eating to

retire for the night.* Stop smoking because nicotine can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter.* Wear looser-fitting clothes. * Lose weight because even a few extra pounds can contribute to heartburn.

When a person comes to a certain age and the children move outand on with their own lives, a home may become too big for its occu-pants. At this point, residents may feel it's time to downsize to asmaller home.

Downsizing can be exciting and challenging at the same time.Going through and packing belongings can be a trip down memorylane. But chances are a smaller space will mean that a person willhave to part with a number of his belongings collected over time.

To make the process easier, first assess how much space there willbe in the new home. Many times floor plans or room dimensions areavailable. First measure large items, such as furniture, to be sure they

will fitin therooms. Then think about storage possibilities.

Next, make a running list of what items can bediscarded and where those items will go. Somebelongings can be donated to charity, while oth-ers may be given to family and friends. Manyother things could end up in the trash or recy-cling bins. Knowing where things will go willmake them easier to sort.

For those doing a major clean-out of thehome, it could be efficient to hire a dumpster to beplaced on-site. This way, larger bulk items can simply be tossedinside. Some municipalities restrict what can be placed in the regular trash orhow much garbage can be collected, so this alleviates the stress of dealing with excess trash.

When actually beginning to get rid of things, start with the areas that receive the leastamount of use. Belongings stored in the attic or basement may be simply taking up spaceand hold less sentimental value. People can then work their way toward items that are usedon a regular basis. It can be cathartic to clear out clutter and get ready to start anew.

Some people find they have to downsize because of financial reasons. In these cases, thin-ning out belongings can also be a way to earn a few extrabucks. Selling or auctioning off seldom used items may pro-duce a little extra cash that can help finance moving expensesor even bills.

Journal Gazette & Times-Courier FEB 2011 • 9O u r Ti m e

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When 72-year-old Army veteran Ted Eickhoff wasat his local VA hospital for an appointment recently,he struck up a conversation with another patientabout selling his home and downsizing. As luckwould have it, Eickhoff's fellow patient lived in alocal independent retirement community, and ravedabout the benefits. Eickhoff was sold.

"I couldn't believe how much you get for themoney," said Eickhoff. "It is so nice to have every-thing taken care of with just one monthly payment.It covers everything I need, including amazingmeals. And if you need another snack, the chefs justmake it for you!"

Eickhoff, a retired Command Sergeant Major, ispart of a growing number of seniors who are plan-ning for an independent living future.

In fact, a recent AARP poll found that nearly 60percent of Boomers say they are concerned about liv-ing independently, and more than 50 percent saythey have begun to think about how they would payfor independent living assistance as they get older.

Crunching the NumbersMereen Klein, 86, started looking at the costs of

keeping her own apartment versus independent liv-ing when her eyesight declined. Klein needed assis-tance with transportation and didn't want to keepbugging her son to drive her around, so she decidedto move to an independent retirement living commu-nity that met her needs.

"It was right for me with my fixed income, and themoney covers everything," said Klein. "I don't pay forTV, or to have my room cleaned. I couldn't believewhat I got for the money -- it was really something."

To determine what makes financial sense, seniorsneed to add up the true costs ofmanaging a home versus beingpart of a retirement community.

"Even if you no longer have amortgage payment, you stillhave fluctuating monthlyexpenses including utilities,taxes, phone, cable and foodthat can add up significantly,"said Stan Brown, COO of Holi-day Retirement. "For many sen-iors, switching to a communitythat includes one manageable,monthly flat fee gives them theability to plan out the next 15 to20 years and know exactly whatthey can expect to spend andwhat they can afford."

For Klein, it not only madefinancial sense, it also gave herback some of her freedom.

"I can take the community

bus down to the bank or out to dinner.I can even go to the doctor and myappointments without bugging any-one for a ride," said Klein. "I havemore independence now than when Ilived alone."

Ask the Right QuestionsTo calculate the true costs of mak-

ing the move to an independentretirement community, Brown cau-tions seniors to ask as many ques-tions as possible prior to moving in, touncover any buy-in fees, to determineif a long-term lease is required and tosee if the "feel" of the community isright.

"It doesn't make financial sense tomake the move if you aren't comfort-able in the new community and will

want to move out within a few months," said Brown."It needs to not only be affordable, but a great placeto live as well."

Seventy three-year-old Julianne (Judy) Kayattknows this all too well. She sold her home and movedinto a community that didn't offer much for hermoney and wasn't as caring as she'd hoped. Afteronly a few months, she started her search again andwas fortunate to find a retirement community thatwas a perfect fit for her.

"My family likes that I am happy here, and I likethat I can still be independent and live here," saidKayatt. "I am free to go where I want; I am enjoyingactivities and events and I'm surrounded by friends.I know I can be happy here for a long time."

The Golden YearsMaking the move to an independent living commu-

nity can be an affordable way to make the most ofone's retirement years. Kayatt, Klein and Eickhoffhave all seen the benefits to cutting ties toa house or an apartment in favor of com-munity living.

For Eickhoff, the payoff is being sur-rounded by people his own age with sharedexperiences and a passion for living thegood life.

"This is everything I ever thought aboutdoing when I retired," said Eickhoff."Sometimes people reminisce about thepast being great, but I was fighting in themilitary for 22 years and working hard,and now these are my golden years. I canactually relax and people take care of mefor a change."

Journal Gazette & Times-CourierO u r Ti m eFEB 2011 • 8

Making the Move to Independent Retirement Living

Everythingat Douglas Rehabilitation andCare Center waswonderful. The foodand the nursing staff were amazing.I was very impressedby the cleanliness of the building. TheActivity departmentalways had things

for mom to do that were meaningful to her, like dressing the tables for meals and folding towels andwash cloths. We would not hesitate to recommendDouglas to family and friends, if needed we wouldreturn immediately.

Douglas Rehabilitation3516 Powell Lane, Mattoon

217-234-6401

Another Successful RehabilitationFlorence Martindale

Skilled and Intermediate Care

Respite/Short Term Stays

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Pulmonary Care Quick StepPrograms

Activity & Social Service Programs

Transportation Provided

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www.hilltopnursinghomeonline.com

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910 W Polk Ave • Charleston, IL

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Blurring the Lines of Generations in theWorkforceAlthough Baby Boomers encompass peopleborn between 1946 and 1964, some of theyounger Boomers tend to group themselves withthe generation that followed them.Generation-X includes those born between 1965and 1976. Some of the younger Gen-Xers actu-ally may have been born to Baby Boomers.Because many Gen-Xers grew up in dual-income households or as latchkey kids, theytend to be more independent and more likely tobuck authority, according to sociologicalresearch. However, this independence is alsospurred on by a desire to succeed and notbecome complacent in one place. Gen-Xers aremore likely to question their jobs and look fornew ones if they find certain aspects not to theirliking. They tend to be more adaptable andamenable to a changing employment environ-ment.Considering that many of the older BabyBoomers are moving into retirement, the leader-ship responsibility for many companies will beheld by Generation-Xers. Since societal changesare also being made around the world due tomore Baby Boomers exiting the workforce, thetransition from Boomer to Xer will probably gomore smoothly than some anticipate. However,there are bound to be some changes in place.One thing to realize about Gen-Xers is they tendto be more family-oriented than their predeces-sors, according to research. That means they'reinterested in finding a balance between work andhome life. They may work harder during the dayto leave earlier to attend to family.

The key to a successful retirement is plan-ning ahead and it's never too early to start.Knowing how your future will look and havinga clear plan of how you will get there can makethe idea of retirement less intimidating. Hereare some strategies to help ensure the "goldenyears" are really golden.

Determining your needs and wantsRetirement means something different to

everyone. Some may choose to be semi-retiredand continue their careers part-time, while oth-ers look forward to spending time with familyand friends, volunteering in the community ortraveling the world. Having a vision of whatyou want is the first step toward what steps totake and the resources needed to make it possi-ble.

How much is enough?Financial planning is the backbone of any

retirement strategy. Investments and contribu-tions to a retirement account can provide theincome you'll need if they are maintained prop-erly and you don't withdraw funds early fromtax-deferred accounts. If you are over 50, thetax-code contains "catch-up" provisions, allow-ing higher contributions toretirement accounts that canyield as much as an additional$155,507 at age 65. If you areunsure about what you'll needfor retirement or the best way toget there, consider consultingwith a financial planner.

Less now is more laterSpending less now and invest-

ing the savings can help youachieve your retirement goals.The proceeds from selling your"empty nest," for example, can

be reinvested while saving the expense of main-taining a larger than necessaryhome. Fewer meals eaten out, amore modest vacation or trad-ing down to a smaller, moreefficient car today meansa more comfortabletomorrow.

To your healthReview your current

insurance policies to besure the coverage is ade-quate and you're not paying forcoverage you don't need. It's difficult to dealwith at any age, but a catastrophic illness oraccident for someone who is retired and on afixed income can be devastating. Anyone plan-ning for retirement should consider purchasinglong-term-care insurance. Though the emotion-al trauma of an illness can be overwhelming,having your retirement savings wiped out andthe financial burden of continued care placedupon your family can be avoided. Long-terminsurance is expensive, but it may be a smallprice to pay to keep your retirement savingsand peace of mind.

Retirement Tips for Baby Boomers

Journal Gazette & Times-Courier FEB 2011 • 5O u r Ti m e

Boomers Turning to Online DatingIndividuals over the age of 50 are turning more frequently to Internet

dating to find a new significant other.After losing a loved one or completing a divorce, many baby boomers

are considering getting back into the dating pool. Internet dating sitesoften provide a good number of candidates for busy people to consider.In busy times filled with work responsibilities and family obligations, log-ging on to the computer to find a date can be much easier than finding adate in a social setting.

Twenty-two percent of the registered members of Match.com are overthe age of 50. There's a good chance that other popular dating sitesalso have a growing number of older participants as well. There are alsodating sites geared to the over-50 crowd to make narrowing downprospects even easier.

Finding oneself in midlife and looking for a date or new mate is actu-ally quite common. Thousands of people are in the same situation. In aSeptember 2003 study of singles aged 55+, The American Associationfor Retired People discovered that 49 percent said of respondents cited,"Having someone to talk to or do things with" as the most important rea-son for dating.

Seniors dating can have a unique set of challenges in comparison toyounger daters. These include:

* Habits or routines that have developed after years of living single.* Added baggage from divorce.* Older children who may not be keen to their parents dating again.* Elderly parents who need care.* Physical appearance woes, such as wrinkles and extra weight.* Medical conditions that may be embarrassing or serious.* Self-esteem issues from being out of the dating loop for so long.Baby Boomers now represent more than a quarter of the population,

and many are being spurred on by children to look into online dating.

The acknowledgement that we are not invin-cible and will potentially need a contingencyplan for medical care and assistance one day isnot something that all people are anxious tomake. After all, many do not want to advertisetheir weaknesses or humble themselves to askfor help.

However, planning ahead for long-term careis a financial and lifestyle decision that is pru-dent -- and one that should be begun early in aperson's working career. Failing to have a planin place means family members and yourselfwill be forced to make important decisionswhen a crisis arises, or at worst at a time whenyou may not be physically or mentally in shapeto make choices. It may also mean you have toexpend more money or risk getting takenadvantage of in your infirmed state, somethingthat may be avoided if you plan ahead.

As soon as you begin earning a stable salary,and definitely when you get married and starta family, it is a wise idea to sit down with afinancial and estate planner and talk about thesteps to take to reach some semblance of finan-cial freedom in your golden years. These dis-cussions should most definitely touch onoptions for managed care or assisted living,should that route be needed. After a plan is inplace, here are some other steps to take.

* Create a filing system to house your perti-nent documents, such as social security num-ber and information, bank statements and safedeposit box information, any and all insuranceplans or investments, tax records, and any will

information. Also, leave the name of yourfinancial consultant, attorney, accountant, etc.

* Set up an executor for your estate or afriend/relative you trust whom you tell whereyour important financial and health recordsare stored.

* Take a reasonable look at your health andfamily's medical history. Are there certain ill-nesses that are genetic? Do you see a patternin familial sicknesses? Talk honestly with yourdoctor about your chances of becoming ill andwhat steps you can proactively take, such asmodifying diet or taking certain medications.

* Adjust your life insurance and other poli-cies to reflect new beneficiaries as your familyevolves. Talk to your advisor about how youcan contribute more to such policies as yourlevel of income grows.

* Visit and become familiar with the differ-ent types of senior care available. Learn thedifferences between nursing homes, assistedliving, independent living, and so on.

* Make end-of-life plans. It is actually possi-ble to pre-pay for funeral and burial expensesnow to plan ahead for later, which can take alot of the burden off of your surviving familymembers. Sign legal documents that state yourend-of-life plans.

Remember that long-term care is not just forthe elderly. Research indicates that about 40percent of care recipients are people under theage of 65 who have suffered an accident or ill-ness, so it pays to become educated now.

Wrinkle Reduction Made EasyApart from graying hair, wrinkles are one of the key signs of aging in

a person. As a result, individuals will often search near and far andspare no expense at keeping wrinkles at bay. However, there are simplesteps one can take to diminish the look of wrinkles without drasticmeasures.

Injectable fillers and other medical procedures top the list of wrinkletreatments. However, for those who don't want to visit a doctor forwrinkles, there are some steps to try.

First, treating wrinkles requires understanding why they form. As aperson ages, his or her skin becomes thinner, dryer and less elastic.These factors contribute to the creases that form in the skin. Geneticsalso plays a large role in the probability for wrinkles. Some people arejust prone to more wrinkles than others.

Certain controllable factors also contribute to wrinkles. Therefore,elimination of these factors can lessen the chance for wrinkle forma-tion.

* Quit smoking. Blood supply changes in the skin as a result of smok-ing, which can speed up the natural aging process. Smokers tend tohave more wrinkles than nonsmokers. Simply quitting can help staveoff wrinkling of the skin.

* Avoid UV exposure. Ultraviolet light from the sun and tanningbeds can damage the skin. This can dry out skin, removing elasticityand even thinning out the skin years before nature would. UV expo-sure breaks down the skin's connective tissue, contributing to saggingand wrinkling. Always use a sun protection product when out in thesun, and avoid the strongest rays. In lieu of a tanning bed, use a self-tanning cream or a bronzing powder for a warm glow.

* Be conscious of repeated facial expressions. Squinting, smiling andother repeated gestures with the face can cause lines to form under theskin. For those who find themselves squinting, they can try sunglassesor have their vision checked. Smiling cannot be avoided; however, onecan stretch the muscles of the face to improve in strength and flexibili-ty.

* Eat and drink healthily. The skin is the largest organ of the body.Just like the heart and lungs, it needs healthy foods to stay in top form.Be sure to include a balanced diet and plenty of hydrating beverages inthe plan for healthy skin. Avoid over-indulgence in caffeine, sodiumand alcohol, all of which can dehydrate and possibly compound skindryness.

* Exercise. Exercise gets the heart pumping and brings oxygen to allnecessary systems of the body. Again, with skin being the largestorgan, exercise can help promote a healthy appearance and ward offpremature wrinkling.

* Use care when washing. Tugging and rubbing of the skin can dam-age connective fibers, leading to wrinkles. Wash face gently and avoidharsh exfoliating products that can scratch and damage the skin.

Trying these methods can help minimize the appearance of wrinkles.However, if wrinkles become a nuisance, a consultation with a derma-tologist to discuss options may be necessary.

Plan Now for Long Term Medical Care

Journal Gazette & Times-CourierO u r Ti m eFEB 2011 • 6

Finding a Home Health Care Company to Trust

Thousands of families are faced with the decision of where to turn when a lovedone needs assistance or medical care. While an outside facility may be a firstthought, many people routinely turn to home health care companies due to thecomfort, financial savings and convenience they provide.

In general, home care is appropriate whenever a person prefers to stay at homebut needs ongoing care that cannot easily or effectively be provided solely by fami-ly and friends, says the National Association for Home Care. Many people associ-ate home care with the elderly, however it's also a viable option for babies, chil-dren, and young adults with disabilities or medical issues.

Home care generally costs one-fifth of what an outside care facility may chargewith the main advantage of enabling people to receive competent, cost-effectivecare that is tailored to the needs of the client. Home care allows people with specialhealth needs to go on living normal lives and experience a high quality of life in thecomfortable and healing environment of their own homes. Services may include

any of the following: * Professional, ongoing health care, such as having a private duty nurse (regis-

tered nurse or licensed practical nurse) come to your home for extended hours ofcare -- like having ICU-level care in your home.

* Help with ventilator, tracheostomy, IV, gastrostomy tubes and other chronicmedical needs that require professional nursing supervision and intervention.

* Skilled nursing visits to complete a single nursing task, set up a nursing planor train care providers.

* Personal care, such as help with eating, grooming or getting around. This canalso include some homemaking tasks that require assistance, such as cleaning orlaundry.

While home care is intended to offer convenience, it's important to choose a com-pany that goes beyond traditional health care to treat the emotional needs as wellas the physical needs of your family member, while simultaneously providing safe-ty and stability.

You may think of asking these questions when selecting a home care company. * How do you match clients with employees? Can I choose the employees that

will work with my family? Do your employees have any say in the families thatthey work for?

* What type of training does your staff go through? What training or continuingeducation do you require of your staff beyond what the state requires?

* Does your company have licensed social workers on staff that could serve theemotional needs of clients and families?

* How closely does the company's supervisor evaluate the quality of home care?Do you employ nursing managers?

* How are problems addressed and resolved? Who can you or another familymember contact with requests, questions or complaints?

* When will service be provided and how do you manage scheduling? Is careavailable round-the-clock, if necessary?

* What procedures are in place for emergencies, such as a power failure orinclement weather?

* Can the company provide references, including a list of doctors, hospital dis-charge planners or other professionals who have experience with the agency, aswell as a list of former clients?

* What are the credentials of the employee who will be in my home? Are all yourcaregivers licensed in their fields? Can he or she also provide individual refer-ences?

* How does the company handle expenses and billing? Have you ever beenaccused of fraud?

* Will I receive a written care plan before service begins? Choosing a home health care company is not a decision to take

lightly. Matching a family member with the right caregiver canmean happy and safe days ahead.

ShelbyHomeCare

Provides 12-24 hour carein your home.

All counties. Licensed

217-459-2620

The Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home is open to both members and non-members and is certified to accept Medicare, Medicaid and private insurances.In addition to offering rooms for residents who need long-term placement, wealso offer fully furnished private rooms for patients who need physical,occupational or speech therapy for a short-term stay. These private Rehab ToHome rooms have private washrooms, electric beds, and private diningavailable. Our Rehab To Home unit has a large therapy room and separate roomfor patients to work on their activities of daily living.

The Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home also offers outpatient therapy forpatients who are returning back home, or for individuals already living in thecommunity. Like our inpatient therapy, our outpatient therapy can providephysical, occupational or speech therapy.

ODD FELLOW-REBEKAH HOMEHARMONY CENTER

201 Lafayette Ave. East • Mattoon, Illinois217-235-5449

• Private Units

• Assistance with Bathing, Dressing, Toileting, Mobility

• Supervised Medication Management

• Homecooked Meals Served Family Style

• Housekeeping and Laundry Provided

• Call Alert Buttons

#60 Richmond Ave. • Mattoon • 235-2198

Richmond ManorAssisted Living

Journal Gazette & Times-Courier FEB 2011 • 7O u r Ti m e

Dogs Can Transform the Lives of PeopleMan's best friend certainly may be the unassuming canine. But dogs are more than pets who

fetch slippers and wag their tails when their owners arrive home. Dogs can provide invaluableservices to individuals who may be impaired or simply need a little companionship to live inde-pendent lives.

According to Working Like Dogs, a resource for people around the world with working dogsand service dogs, assistance dogs transform the lives of their human partners with debilitat-ing physical and mental disabilities by serving as their companion, helper, aide, best friend,and close member of their family. Assistance Dogs can be from a variety of breeds includ-ing labrador retrievers, golden retrievers, standard poodles, and even shelter dogs.These specially trained dogs perform many tasks for their partners with disabilitiesand are classified in the following ways:

Guide Dogs: Assist people with vision loss, leading these individuals around physicalobstacles and to destinations such as seating, crossing streets, entering or exiting door-ways, elevators, and stairways.

Service Dogs: Assist people with disabilities with walking, balance, dressing, transferringfrom place to place, retrieving and carrying items, opening doors and drawers, pushing buttons,and pulling wheelchairs. They can also aide with household chores, such as putting in andremoving clothes from the washer and dryer.

Hearing Alert Dogs: Alert people with a hearing loss to the presence of specific sounds suchas doorbells, telephones, crying babies, sirens, another person, buzzing timers or sensors,knocks at the door or smoke, fire and clock alarms.

Seizure Alert/Seizure Response Dogs: Alert or respond to medical conditions, such asheart attack, stroke, diabetes, epilepsy, panic attack, anxiety attack, post-traumaticstress and seizures.

All of these types of assistance dogs are dedicated to their humans, who rely on them toachieve their daily function. But while there are a number of functions the trained working or

service dog may master, the regular, run-of-the-mill pet canalso serve special functions in his or her lifetime.

Therapy dogs are often volunteer dogs who visit the elderlyor those who have experienced some other trauma. The dogsare instrumental in helping individuals come out of their shells-- something that may not yet be possible with a fellow humanbeing. Dogs can also help with a number of medical conditions,such as relieving stress and helping with depression. They mayalso reduce blood pressure as well as popular medications.

* Blood Pressure: According to research, while ACE inhibit-ing drugs can generally reduce blood pressure, they aren't aseffective at controlling spikes in blood pressure due to stressand tension. However, a recent study of hypertensive New Yorkstockbrokers who got dogs or cats were found they had lowerblood pressure and heart rates than those who didn't havepets.

* Stress: Petting a dog or cat is known to calm anxiety andpromote a feeling of relaxation. This can help relieve stress aswell as meditating or yoga.

* Exercise: A dog will encourage you to get out and walk atleast twice a day. This will also help with relieving stress andprovide much-needed physical activity.

* Companionship: If you live alone or recently experienced aloss, a dog can be the companion you enjoy coming home toafter a long day. Pets can actually be there for you when peoplecan't. Research has shown that nursing home residents reportless loneliness when visited by dogs than when they spendtime with other people.

* Social Interaction: A friendly dog can make you seem moreapproachable and also offer opportunities for conversationwhile out and about. Fellow dog-walkers may come up to you tochat about your dog's breed, which could turn out to be anopening for friendship.

Whether they're professional working dogs or the everydaypet, dogs can provide many services to their human compan-ions.

Journal Gazette & Times-CourierO u r Ti m eFEB 2011 • 6

Finding a Home Health Care Company to Trust

Thousands of families are faced with the decision of where to turn when a lovedone needs assistance or medical care. While an outside facility may be a firstthought, many people routinely turn to home health care companies due to thecomfort, financial savings and convenience they provide.

In general, home care is appropriate whenever a person prefers to stay at homebut needs ongoing care that cannot easily or effectively be provided solely by fami-ly and friends, says the National Association for Home Care. Many people associ-ate home care with the elderly, however it's also a viable option for babies, chil-dren, and young adults with disabilities or medical issues.

Home care generally costs one-fifth of what an outside care facility may chargewith the main advantage of enabling people to receive competent, cost-effectivecare that is tailored to the needs of the client. Home care allows people with specialhealth needs to go on living normal lives and experience a high quality of life in thecomfortable and healing environment of their own homes. Services may include

any of the following: * Professional, ongoing health care, such as having a private duty nurse (regis-

tered nurse or licensed practical nurse) come to your home for extended hours ofcare -- like having ICU-level care in your home.

* Help with ventilator, tracheostomy, IV, gastrostomy tubes and other chronicmedical needs that require professional nursing supervision and intervention.

* Skilled nursing visits to complete a single nursing task, set up a nursing planor train care providers.

* Personal care, such as help with eating, grooming or getting around. This canalso include some homemaking tasks that require assistance, such as cleaning orlaundry.

While home care is intended to offer convenience, it's important to choose a com-pany that goes beyond traditional health care to treat the emotional needs as wellas the physical needs of your family member, while simultaneously providing safe-ty and stability.

You may think of asking these questions when selecting a home care company. * How do you match clients with employees? Can I choose the employees that

will work with my family? Do your employees have any say in the families thatthey work for?

* What type of training does your staff go through? What training or continuingeducation do you require of your staff beyond what the state requires?

* Does your company have licensed social workers on staff that could serve theemotional needs of clients and families?

* How closely does the company's supervisor evaluate the quality of home care?Do you employ nursing managers?

* How are problems addressed and resolved? Who can you or another familymember contact with requests, questions or complaints?

* When will service be provided and how do you manage scheduling? Is careavailable round-the-clock, if necessary?

* What procedures are in place for emergencies, such as a power failure orinclement weather?

* Can the company provide references, including a list of doctors, hospital dis-charge planners or other professionals who have experience with the agency, aswell as a list of former clients?

* What are the credentials of the employee who will be in my home? Are all yourcaregivers licensed in their fields? Can he or she also provide individual refer-ences?

* How does the company handle expenses and billing? Have you ever beenaccused of fraud?

* Will I receive a written care plan before service begins? Choosing a home health care company is not a decision to take

lightly. Matching a family member with the right caregiver canmean happy and safe days ahead.

ShelbyHomeCare

Provides 12-24 hour carein your home.

All counties. Licensed

217-459-2620

The Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home is open to both members and non-members and is certified to accept Medicare, Medicaid and private insurances.In addition to offering rooms for residents who need long-term placement, wealso offer fully furnished private rooms for patients who need physical,occupational or speech therapy for a short-term stay. These private Rehab ToHome rooms have private washrooms, electric beds, and private diningavailable. Our Rehab To Home unit has a large therapy room and separate roomfor patients to work on their activities of daily living.

The Odd Fellow-Rebekah Home also offers outpatient therapy forpatients who are returning back home, or for individuals already living in thecommunity. Like our inpatient therapy, our outpatient therapy can providephysical, occupational or speech therapy.

ODD FELLOW-REBEKAH HOMEHARMONY CENTER

201 Lafayette Ave. East • Mattoon, Illinois217-235-5449

• Private Units

• Assistance with Bathing, Dressing, Toileting, Mobility

• Supervised Medication Management

• Homecooked Meals Served Family Style

• Housekeeping and Laundry Provided

• Call Alert Buttons

#60 Richmond Ave. • Mattoon • 235-2198

Richmond ManorAssisted Living

Journal Gazette & Times-Courier FEB 2011 • 7O u r Ti m e

Dogs Can Transform the Lives of PeopleMan's best friend certainly may be the unassuming canine. But dogs are more than pets who

fetch slippers and wag their tails when their owners arrive home. Dogs can provide invaluableservices to individuals who may be impaired or simply need a little companionship to live inde-pendent lives.

According to Working Like Dogs, a resource for people around the world with working dogsand service dogs, assistance dogs transform the lives of their human partners with debilitat-ing physical and mental disabilities by serving as their companion, helper, aide, best friend,and close member of their family. Assistance Dogs can be from a variety of breeds includ-ing labrador retrievers, golden retrievers, standard poodles, and even shelter dogs.These specially trained dogs perform many tasks for their partners with disabilitiesand are classified in the following ways:

Guide Dogs: Assist people with vision loss, leading these individuals around physicalobstacles and to destinations such as seating, crossing streets, entering or exiting door-ways, elevators, and stairways.

Service Dogs: Assist people with disabilities with walking, balance, dressing, transferringfrom place to place, retrieving and carrying items, opening doors and drawers, pushing buttons,and pulling wheelchairs. They can also aide with household chores, such as putting in andremoving clothes from the washer and dryer.

Hearing Alert Dogs: Alert people with a hearing loss to the presence of specific sounds suchas doorbells, telephones, crying babies, sirens, another person, buzzing timers or sensors,knocks at the door or smoke, fire and clock alarms.

Seizure Alert/Seizure Response Dogs: Alert or respond to medical conditions, such asheart attack, stroke, diabetes, epilepsy, panic attack, anxiety attack, post-traumaticstress and seizures.

All of these types of assistance dogs are dedicated to their humans, who rely on them toachieve their daily function. But while there are a number of functions the trained working or

service dog may master, the regular, run-of-the-mill pet canalso serve special functions in his or her lifetime.

Therapy dogs are often volunteer dogs who visit the elderlyor those who have experienced some other trauma. The dogsare instrumental in helping individuals come out of their shells-- something that may not yet be possible with a fellow humanbeing. Dogs can also help with a number of medical conditions,such as relieving stress and helping with depression. They mayalso reduce blood pressure as well as popular medications.

* Blood Pressure: According to research, while ACE inhibit-ing drugs can generally reduce blood pressure, they aren't aseffective at controlling spikes in blood pressure due to stressand tension. However, a recent study of hypertensive New Yorkstockbrokers who got dogs or cats were found they had lowerblood pressure and heart rates than those who didn't havepets.

* Stress: Petting a dog or cat is known to calm anxiety andpromote a feeling of relaxation. This can help relieve stress aswell as meditating or yoga.

* Exercise: A dog will encourage you to get out and walk atleast twice a day. This will also help with relieving stress andprovide much-needed physical activity.

* Companionship: If you live alone or recently experienced aloss, a dog can be the companion you enjoy coming home toafter a long day. Pets can actually be there for you when peoplecan't. Research has shown that nursing home residents reportless loneliness when visited by dogs than when they spendtime with other people.

* Social Interaction: A friendly dog can make you seem moreapproachable and also offer opportunities for conversationwhile out and about. Fellow dog-walkers may come up to you tochat about your dog's breed, which could turn out to be anopening for friendship.

Whether they're professional working dogs or the everydaypet, dogs can provide many services to their human compan-ions.

When 72-year-old Army veteran Ted Eickhoff wasat his local VA hospital for an appointment recently,he struck up a conversation with another patientabout selling his home and downsizing. As luckwould have it, Eickhoff's fellow patient lived in alocal independent retirement community, and ravedabout the benefits. Eickhoff was sold.

"I couldn't believe how much you get for themoney," said Eickhoff. "It is so nice to have every-thing taken care of with just one monthly payment.It covers everything I need, including amazingmeals. And if you need another snack, the chefs justmake it for you!"

Eickhoff, a retired Command Sergeant Major, ispart of a growing number of seniors who are plan-ning for an independent living future.

In fact, a recent AARP poll found that nearly 60percent of Boomers say they are concerned about liv-ing independently, and more than 50 percent saythey have begun to think about how they would payfor independent living assistance as they get older.

Crunching the NumbersMereen Klein, 86, started looking at the costs of

keeping her own apartment versus independent liv-ing when her eyesight declined. Klein needed assis-tance with transportation and didn't want to keepbugging her son to drive her around, so she decidedto move to an independent retirement living commu-nity that met her needs.

"It was right for me with my fixed income, and themoney covers everything," said Klein. "I don't pay forTV, or to have my room cleaned. I couldn't believewhat I got for the money -- it was really something."

To determine what makes financial sense, seniorsneed to add up the true costs ofmanaging a home versus beingpart of a retirement community.

"Even if you no longer have amortgage payment, you stillhave fluctuating monthlyexpenses including utilities,taxes, phone, cable and foodthat can add up significantly,"said Stan Brown, COO of Holi-day Retirement. "For many sen-iors, switching to a communitythat includes one manageable,monthly flat fee gives them theability to plan out the next 15 to20 years and know exactly whatthey can expect to spend andwhat they can afford."

For Klein, it not only madefinancial sense, it also gave herback some of her freedom.

"I can take the community

bus down to the bank or out to dinner.I can even go to the doctor and myappointments without bugging any-one for a ride," said Klein. "I havemore independence now than when Ilived alone."

Ask the Right QuestionsTo calculate the true costs of mak-

ing the move to an independentretirement community, Brown cau-tions seniors to ask as many ques-tions as possible prior to moving in, touncover any buy-in fees, to determineif a long-term lease is required and tosee if the "feel" of the community isright.

"It doesn't make financial sense tomake the move if you aren't comfort-able in the new community and will

want to move out within a few months," said Brown."It needs to not only be affordable, but a great placeto live as well."

Seventy three-year-old Julianne (Judy) Kayattknows this all too well. She sold her home and movedinto a community that didn't offer much for hermoney and wasn't as caring as she'd hoped. Afteronly a few months, she started her search again andwas fortunate to find a retirement community thatwas a perfect fit for her.

"My family likes that I am happy here, and I likethat I can still be independent and live here," saidKayatt. "I am free to go where I want; I am enjoyingactivities and events and I'm surrounded by friends.I know I can be happy here for a long time."

The Golden YearsMaking the move to an independent living commu-

nity can be an affordable way to make the most ofone's retirement years. Kayatt, Klein and Eickhoffhave all seen the benefits to cutting ties toa house or an apartment in favor of com-munity living.

For Eickhoff, the payoff is being sur-rounded by people his own age with sharedexperiences and a passion for living thegood life.

"This is everything I ever thought aboutdoing when I retired," said Eickhoff."Sometimes people reminisce about thepast being great, but I was fighting in themilitary for 22 years and working hard,and now these are my golden years. I canactually relax and people take care of mefor a change."

Journal Gazette & Times-CourierO u r Ti m eFEB 2011 • 8

Making the Move to Independent Retirement Living

Everythingat Douglas Rehabilitation andCare Center waswonderful. The foodand the nursing staff were amazing.I was very impressedby the cleanliness of the building. TheActivity departmentalways had things

for mom to do that were meaningful to her, like dressing the tables for meals and folding towels andwash cloths. We would not hesitate to recommendDouglas to family and friends, if needed we wouldreturn immediately.

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Blurring the Lines of Generations in theWorkforceAlthough Baby Boomers encompass peopleborn between 1946 and 1964, some of theyounger Boomers tend to group themselves withthe generation that followed them.Generation-X includes those born between 1965and 1976. Some of the younger Gen-Xers actu-ally may have been born to Baby Boomers.Because many Gen-Xers grew up in dual-income households or as latchkey kids, theytend to be more independent and more likely tobuck authority, according to sociologicalresearch. However, this independence is alsospurred on by a desire to succeed and notbecome complacent in one place. Gen-Xers aremore likely to question their jobs and look fornew ones if they find certain aspects not to theirliking. They tend to be more adaptable andamenable to a changing employment environ-ment.Considering that many of the older BabyBoomers are moving into retirement, the leader-ship responsibility for many companies will beheld by Generation-Xers. Since societal changesare also being made around the world due tomore Baby Boomers exiting the workforce, thetransition from Boomer to Xer will probably gomore smoothly than some anticipate. However,there are bound to be some changes in place.One thing to realize about Gen-Xers is they tendto be more family-oriented than their predeces-sors, according to research. That means they'reinterested in finding a balance between work andhome life. They may work harder during the dayto leave earlier to attend to family.

The key to a successful retirement is plan-ning ahead and it's never too early to start.Knowing how your future will look and havinga clear plan of how you will get there can makethe idea of retirement less intimidating. Hereare some strategies to help ensure the "goldenyears" are really golden.

Determining your needs and wantsRetirement means something different to

everyone. Some may choose to be semi-retiredand continue their careers part-time, while oth-ers look forward to spending time with familyand friends, volunteering in the community ortraveling the world. Having a vision of whatyou want is the first step toward what steps totake and the resources needed to make it possi-ble.

How much is enough?Financial planning is the backbone of any

retirement strategy. Investments and contribu-tions to a retirement account can provide theincome you'll need if they are maintained prop-erly and you don't withdraw funds early fromtax-deferred accounts. If you are over 50, thetax-code contains "catch-up" provisions, allow-ing higher contributions toretirement accounts that canyield as much as an additional$155,507 at age 65. If you areunsure about what you'll needfor retirement or the best way toget there, consider consultingwith a financial planner.

Less now is more laterSpending less now and invest-

ing the savings can help youachieve your retirement goals.The proceeds from selling your"empty nest," for example, can

be reinvested while saving the expense of main-taining a larger than necessaryhome. Fewer meals eaten out, amore modest vacation or trad-ing down to a smaller, moreefficient car today meansa more comfortabletomorrow.

To your healthReview your current

insurance policies to besure the coverage is ade-quate and you're not paying forcoverage you don't need. It's difficult to dealwith at any age, but a catastrophic illness oraccident for someone who is retired and on afixed income can be devastating. Anyone plan-ning for retirement should consider purchasinglong-term-care insurance. Though the emotion-al trauma of an illness can be overwhelming,having your retirement savings wiped out andthe financial burden of continued care placedupon your family can be avoided. Long-terminsurance is expensive, but it may be a smallprice to pay to keep your retirement savingsand peace of mind.

Retirement Tips for Baby Boomers

Journal Gazette & Times-Courier FEB 2011 • 5O u r Ti m e

Boomers Turning to Online DatingIndividuals over the age of 50 are turning more frequently to Internet

dating to find a new significant other.After losing a loved one or completing a divorce, many baby boomers

are considering getting back into the dating pool. Internet dating sitesoften provide a good number of candidates for busy people to consider.In busy times filled with work responsibilities and family obligations, log-ging on to the computer to find a date can be much easier than finding adate in a social setting.

Twenty-two percent of the registered members of Match.com are overthe age of 50. There's a good chance that other popular dating sitesalso have a growing number of older participants as well. There are alsodating sites geared to the over-50 crowd to make narrowing downprospects even easier.

Finding oneself in midlife and looking for a date or new mate is actu-ally quite common. Thousands of people are in the same situation. In aSeptember 2003 study of singles aged 55+, The American Associationfor Retired People discovered that 49 percent said of respondents cited,"Having someone to talk to or do things with" as the most important rea-son for dating.

Seniors dating can have a unique set of challenges in comparison toyounger daters. These include:

* Habits or routines that have developed after years of living single.* Added baggage from divorce.* Older children who may not be keen to their parents dating again.* Elderly parents who need care.* Physical appearance woes, such as wrinkles and extra weight.* Medical conditions that may be embarrassing or serious.* Self-esteem issues from being out of the dating loop for so long.Baby Boomers now represent more than a quarter of the population,

and many are being spurred on by children to look into online dating.

The acknowledgement that we are not invin-cible and will potentially need a contingencyplan for medical care and assistance one day isnot something that all people are anxious tomake. After all, many do not want to advertisetheir weaknesses or humble themselves to askfor help.

However, planning ahead for long-term careis a financial and lifestyle decision that is pru-dent -- and one that should be begun early in aperson's working career. Failing to have a planin place means family members and yourselfwill be forced to make important decisionswhen a crisis arises, or at worst at a time whenyou may not be physically or mentally in shapeto make choices. It may also mean you have toexpend more money or risk getting takenadvantage of in your infirmed state, somethingthat may be avoided if you plan ahead.

As soon as you begin earning a stable salary,and definitely when you get married and starta family, it is a wise idea to sit down with afinancial and estate planner and talk about thesteps to take to reach some semblance of finan-cial freedom in your golden years. These dis-cussions should most definitely touch onoptions for managed care or assisted living,should that route be needed. After a plan is inplace, here are some other steps to take.

* Create a filing system to house your perti-nent documents, such as social security num-ber and information, bank statements and safedeposit box information, any and all insuranceplans or investments, tax records, and any will

information. Also, leave the name of yourfinancial consultant, attorney, accountant, etc.

* Set up an executor for your estate or afriend/relative you trust whom you tell whereyour important financial and health recordsare stored.

* Take a reasonable look at your health andfamily's medical history. Are there certain ill-nesses that are genetic? Do you see a patternin familial sicknesses? Talk honestly with yourdoctor about your chances of becoming ill andwhat steps you can proactively take, such asmodifying diet or taking certain medications.

* Adjust your life insurance and other poli-cies to reflect new beneficiaries as your familyevolves. Talk to your advisor about how youcan contribute more to such policies as yourlevel of income grows.

* Visit and become familiar with the differ-ent types of senior care available. Learn thedifferences between nursing homes, assistedliving, independent living, and so on.

* Make end-of-life plans. It is actually possi-ble to pre-pay for funeral and burial expensesnow to plan ahead for later, which can take alot of the burden off of your surviving familymembers. Sign legal documents that state yourend-of-life plans.

Remember that long-term care is not just forthe elderly. Research indicates that about 40percent of care recipients are people under theage of 65 who have suffered an accident or ill-ness, so it pays to become educated now.

Wrinkle Reduction Made EasyApart from graying hair, wrinkles are one of the key signs of aging in

a person. As a result, individuals will often search near and far andspare no expense at keeping wrinkles at bay. However, there are simplesteps one can take to diminish the look of wrinkles without drasticmeasures.

Injectable fillers and other medical procedures top the list of wrinkletreatments. However, for those who don't want to visit a doctor forwrinkles, there are some steps to try.

First, treating wrinkles requires understanding why they form. As aperson ages, his or her skin becomes thinner, dryer and less elastic.These factors contribute to the creases that form in the skin. Geneticsalso plays a large role in the probability for wrinkles. Some people arejust prone to more wrinkles than others.

Certain controllable factors also contribute to wrinkles. Therefore,elimination of these factors can lessen the chance for wrinkle forma-tion.

* Quit smoking. Blood supply changes in the skin as a result of smok-ing, which can speed up the natural aging process. Smokers tend tohave more wrinkles than nonsmokers. Simply quitting can help staveoff wrinkling of the skin.

* Avoid UV exposure. Ultraviolet light from the sun and tanningbeds can damage the skin. This can dry out skin, removing elasticityand even thinning out the skin years before nature would. UV expo-sure breaks down the skin's connective tissue, contributing to saggingand wrinkling. Always use a sun protection product when out in thesun, and avoid the strongest rays. In lieu of a tanning bed, use a self-tanning cream or a bronzing powder for a warm glow.

* Be conscious of repeated facial expressions. Squinting, smiling andother repeated gestures with the face can cause lines to form under theskin. For those who find themselves squinting, they can try sunglassesor have their vision checked. Smiling cannot be avoided; however, onecan stretch the muscles of the face to improve in strength and flexibili-ty.

* Eat and drink healthily. The skin is the largest organ of the body.Just like the heart and lungs, it needs healthy foods to stay in top form.Be sure to include a balanced diet and plenty of hydrating beverages inthe plan for healthy skin. Avoid over-indulgence in caffeine, sodiumand alcohol, all of which can dehydrate and possibly compound skindryness.

* Exercise. Exercise gets the heart pumping and brings oxygen to allnecessary systems of the body. Again, with skin being the largestorgan, exercise can help promote a healthy appearance and ward offpremature wrinkling.

* Use care when washing. Tugging and rubbing of the skin can dam-age connective fibers, leading to wrinkles. Wash face gently and avoidharsh exfoliating products that can scratch and damage the skin.

Trying these methods can help minimize the appearance of wrinkles.However, if wrinkles become a nuisance, a consultation with a derma-tologist to discuss options may be necessary.

Plan Now for Long Term Medical Care

Journal Gazette & Times-CourierO u r Ti m eFEB 2011 • 4

Lose Weight After 50Few people relish the steps needed to drop a few

pounds. But losing weight when you are youngermay be easier than it is for those 50 and older. That'sbecause metabolic changes and habits may interferewith weight loss.

As we age the body goes through differentchanges. For many, metabolism might just slowdown. That means whatever is eaten could takelonger to be digested and burned off. However,metabolism isn't directly linked to age It has to domore with muscle mass.

It is well known that muscle burns fat. The moremuscle a person has, generally the less fat there isand whatever fat is present is burned more quickly.As one ages, muscle mass may decrease. This con-tributes to metabolism changes, often resulting inmore fat.

There are different types of fat that can affectone's health.

Visceral fat: This is the most dangerous fat thatsurrounds the internal organs. It can be hard to getrid of this fat without healthy eating and exercise.

Subcutaneous fat: This fat is directly underneath the skin. Although it can be unsightlyand cause a person to be self-conscious, it isn't as dangerous medically and is the easier fat toremove with diet and exercise.

To help ensure health and promote greater weight loss, here are some tips to employ.* Get walking: Walking is a low-impact cardiovascular exercise that is beneficial to most

people. In addition to cardiovascular exercise, walking can help to reduce stress.* Eat smaller portions: As we age we may simply need less food to fill us up. Try scaling

back on portions.* Do toning exercises: Muscle strengthening exercises can keep muscles strong, which can

promote overall strength and better posture. It can also help to keep bones and joints alignedto reduce injury.

* Make gradual changes: Sudden changes could be jarring to the body. Plus, they're harderto accept than gradual changes. A little change here and there is most effective.

Easing the Burn: Recognize Causes of HeartburnAfter a big meal, many people experience a feeling of burning behind the

breastbone that seems to extend all the way back up to the mouth. Although itfeels like the heart and lungs are on fire, heartburn actually has nothing to dowith the heart at all.

Heartburn can be a symptom of GERD, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease.More than 60 million American adults experience acid reflux and heartburn atleast once a month. Roughly 25 million adults suffer daily from heartburn andexperience severe refluxes.

When stomach acid rises and comes in contact with the esophagus, or the tubein the throat that connects the mouth to the stomach, it can cause irritation.This irritation creates a burning sensation. Sometimes a foul taste occurs in themouth, and sometimes it can feel like food is at the back of the throat.

Heartburn can be caused by a few different factors. * A person may eat a meal that simply causes stomach upset. Sometimes

spicy foods or rich meals can be the culprit.* When the lower esophageal sphincter muscle (LES) is weakened or relaxed,

it cannot do its job of keeping stomach acid inside of the stomach.* Pressure on the stomach, such as tight clothing or bending over, may result

in acid reflux.* Stress can cause an over-abundance of stomach acid and a slowing down of

the emptying of the stomach.* Eating large meals right before bedtime.Oftentimes, making dietary changes or modifications to habits can alleviate

heartburn. Reducing the consumption of fatty, fried foods or foods that canweaken the LES may alleviate symptoms.

Individuals who have very frequent heartburn and acid reflux may need totake medication to help their symptoms. Proton-pump inhibitors are a series ofmedications that reduce the production of gastric acid. There are other ways toalleviate symptoms.

* Eat smaller meals and more slowly.* Don't eat large meals before bed. Wait at least three hours after eating to

retire for the night.* Stop smoking because nicotine can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter.* Wear looser-fitting clothes. * Lose weight because even a few extra pounds can contribute to heartburn.

When a person comes to a certain age and the children move outand on with their own lives, a home may become too big for its occu-pants. At this point, residents may feel it's time to downsize to asmaller home.

Downsizing can be exciting and challenging at the same time.Going through and packing belongings can be a trip down memorylane. But chances are a smaller space will mean that a person willhave to part with a number of his belongings collected over time.

To make the process easier, first assess how much space there willbe in the new home. Many times floor plans or room dimensions areavailable. First measure large items, such as furniture, to be sure they

will fitin therooms. Then think about storage possibilities.

Next, make a running list of what items can bediscarded and where those items will go. Somebelongings can be donated to charity, while oth-ers may be given to family and friends. Manyother things could end up in the trash or recy-cling bins. Knowing where things will go willmake them easier to sort.

For those doing a major clean-out of thehome, it could be efficient to hire a dumpster to beplaced on-site. This way, larger bulk items can simply be tossedinside. Some municipalities restrict what can be placed in the regular trash orhow much garbage can be collected, so this alleviates the stress of dealing with excess trash.

When actually beginning to get rid of things, start with the areas that receive the leastamount of use. Belongings stored in the attic or basement may be simply taking up spaceand hold less sentimental value. People can then work their way toward items that are usedon a regular basis. It can be cathartic to clear out clutter and get ready to start anew.

Some people find they have to downsize because of financial reasons. In these cases, thin-ning out belongings can also be a way to earn a few extrabucks. Selling or auctioning off seldom used items may pro-duce a little extra cash that can help finance moving expensesor even bills.

Journal Gazette & Times-Courier FEB 2011 • 9O u r Ti m e

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GETTHE

FACTSABOUT

CATARACTS

More than half of Americans age 65 and older willexperience cataracts, so many assume cataracts arejust a sign of aging. However, children, young adultsand even babies can have cataracts.

What Are Cataracts?A cataract forms when the lens of the eye becomes

cloudy. The lens is responsible for focusing light ontothe retina. The reason for cloudiness could be due toprotein changes in the lens. With nuclear cataracts,the most common kind of cataract, the inside of thelens is affected. In cortical cataracts, the outside ofthe lens is affected.

Cataracts grow quite slowly, meaning it can beyears before they impact vision significantly. Whilethey are often found in the elderly and progress asone ages, babies can be born with cataracts (knownas congenital cataracts). Cataracts can be the resultof steroid use. Also, younger adults can experiencecataracts from a systemic illnesses, like diabetes.

Cataracts may also formin smokers. Doctors say thatnot smoking can greatly reducethe risk for nuclear cataracts.

Research indicates that women are at a higherrisk for cataracts than men. It could be becausecataracts develop more pronounced as individualsage. Women generally live longer than men.

Cataract SymptomsSymptoms of cataracts include blurred vision,

dulled colors, appearance of halos around brightlights at night, and the need for brighter light whenreading. Symptoms of cataracts cannot be remediedwith reading glasses or other prescriptions.

Treatment for CataractsThe most common treatment for cataracts that

cause considerable vision impairment is surgery. Acataract will be removed only if it interferes withvision enough to prevent a person from driving,reading, or doing other essential activities. A "ripe"cataract can be extracted by an eye surgeon in aroutine surgery. If cataracts are present in both

eyes, surgery will be performed one at a time.The procedure is called phacoemulsification, or

phaco. An eye surgeon will make a small incisioninto the side of the cornea. A probe is inserted whereultrasound waves will gradually break up thecloudy cataract. A suction then removes the pieces.

Recovery time varies among patients but could bea week or two. The eye will be covered with a protec-tive wrap for a few days. Eye drops may have to beadministered daily. Eventually protective sunglass-es will block out bright light from the eye. Oneshould also avoid activities that could affect the eye,such as dusty conditions, changing a litter box,bending over or doing heavy lifting, or splashingwater in the eye.

Most outcomes of cataract surgery are successful.Vision is restored to at least 20/40, the acceptablelevel for driving.

For those experiencing vision trouble, consult withan optometrist to determine if cataracts are thecause.

Facts About GlaucomaAs people age, many expect their health to begin to deteriorate at

least a little bit. While science has made many advancements andpeople are now living longer and healthier lives, there are stillsome signs people recognize as signs of aging. And these signs canbegin as early as a person's 20s, growing more noticeable as timegoes on.

One side effect many inappropriately associate strictly withaging is glaucoma. Though commonly considered a disease of theelderly, glaucoma is not strictly limited to baby boomers and sen-iors citizens. While the Glaucoma Research Foundation notes thatthe elderly are at a higher risk for glaucoma, they are also quick topoint out that 1 out of every 10,000 babies born in the UnitedStates is born with glaucoma, illustrating the broad expanse of thispotentially harmful disease.

With that in mind, consider the following quick facts about glaucoma:• Roughly half of the 4 million Americans who have glaucoma are unaware they have it.• Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness. It's important to get routine eye examinations, as even those who do and receive adequate treatment for glaucoma will not necessarily avoid blindness. In fact, roughly 10 percent of people with glaucoma

who receive proper treatment still experience loss of vision. For those who never get treatment, the likelihood of blindness is even greater.• There are not necessarily symptoms of glaucoma. The impor-

tance of eye examinations is further emphasized by the very reallikelihood there will be no discernible symptoms of glaucoma, asdoctors often diagnose the disease before patients know they evenhave a vision problem. When vision loss begins, it does so withdiminished peripheral vision. Many people subconsciously

compensate by turning their head to the side. • According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, African-

Americans are particularly susceptible to glaucoma at a young age.

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Journal Gazette & Times-Courier FEB 2011 • 3O u r Ti m e

o-

f

f

The strength of a person's immune systemis generally what determines if he or she getssick. If two people are exposed to the samegerms, the one with a weaker immune systemtends to get sick.

Medical experts often agree that the elderlyand the very young can experience seriousand adverse reactions to seemingly mundaneillnesses. Simple colds or the flu can turn intopneumonia and other life-threatening situa-tions if left untreated. The culprit is often anunderdeveloped or compromised immune sys-tem.

As you age, your physiology changes. Bonesbecome less dense, hormones fluctuate, andyou may experience a weaker immune sys-tem. As a result, seniors are more susceptibleto illness than their younger counterparts.But boosting the immune system by changingyour diet, exercising and getting outdoors canbe a way to stay healthy.

Doctors say that it is possible to boost yourimmune system. The secrets lie in under-standing how the immune system works --and how your everyday life can offer yougreater protection.

In simple terms, the immune system is anetwork of cells and organs that blockunwanted visitors from wreaking havocinside of the body. Should a germ get by, thebody has strong defenders that can eliminatethe threat. These are known as antibodies.When you get an inoculation, a small amountof an offending particle is put into your bodyso that your immune system can develop anti-bodies against it. Should you be exposed tothat type of invader again, you will possessthe antibodies to fight it.

Your immune system can lose some of itsprotective properties if it is faced with a con-stant onslaught of diseases and must over-

compensate for poor health habits. But thereare ways to get your immune system back infighting shape.

1. Get plenty of sleep. Mom was right ... lackof sleep can affect the body's ability to func-tion correctly, which includes fending off dis-ease. Routine sleep deprivation can definitelyaffect overall health.

2. Reduce stress. Stress can have a numberof negative health implications. It slowlywears away at the immune system and leavesyou susceptible to a host of illnesses. Takemeasures to reduce stress as much as possibleto be healthier.

3. Exercise.Moderate exercise has beenshown to improve immune system function.However, overdoing it and running yourselfragged can actually be detrimental. Briskwalking or bike riding can be a great form ofmoderate exercise. Always check with a doc-tor before exercising to be sure it fits withyour lifestyle.

4. Engage in intimate relations. Sex causesthe body to release IGA, proteins from theimmune system that help the body fight infec-tion. Feel-good brain chemicals also play apart in fending off outside invaders.

5. Drink plenty of water. As you age, thethirst reflex becomes less pronounced, and aloss of taste may mean you pass up foods witha high water content. Dehydration can wreakhavoc on the body. Water is necessary to flushout toxins that could lead to disease.

6. Eat a rainbow of foods. Brightly coloredfoods are full of the antioxidants you need toimprove health and keep the immune systemin top form. Tomatoes have lycopene, berriesare a great addition to your diet and beansare high in fiber that keeps the digestive sys-tem working correctly.

Take Control of Your Joint Health(MS) -- With the population of Baby Boomers -- people bornbetween 1946 and 1964 -- at over 77 million, obesity at an all-time high, and initial signs of osteoarthritis often symptom free,the vast majority of the population is still relatively unaware oftheir current state and the importance of joint health.According to a recent study, approximately one-third of Ameri-cans 35 and older said their joints prevented them from doingtheir favorite sport or activity and more than 50 percent of themjust accepted that as part of the aging process. This leaves alot of people asking questions like, "What can I do?"T h e J o i n t J u i c e ( R ) j o i n t h e a l t h a s s e s s m e n t(www.jointjuice.com/joint-health.jsp) is one of the first interac-tive Web-based tools that allows individuals to easily evaluatetheir joint health and take proactive steps to improve it. Individ-uals are now able to log onto jointjuice.com for an illustrativeassessment that determines the condition of their joints basedon a series of 15 questions regarding Body Mass Index (BMI),diet, exercise, lifestyle, and joint health history.Renowned orthopaedic surgeon and founder of Joint Juice,Inc., a leading joint health nutrition company, Kevin R. Stone,M.D., created the joint health assessment as a means to edu-cate individuals about key factors that impact joint health and toprovide expert insight that can empower individuals to improvetheir joints -- such as weight loss, regular exercise or takingcrucial vitamins and minerals, including glucosamine andchrondroitin.The Joint Juice(R) joint health assessment not only featuresjoint health tips from Dr. Stone but also includes fitness tipsfrom celebrity ultramarathoner and long-time user of JointJuice(R) products Dean Karnazes. With these simple tips, peo-ple can take control of joint health and continue doing the activ-ities they love to do throughout their life.When suffering from joint health-related issues, it's imperativeto see a physician for a routine check-up at least once a year.Request an examination of your joints -- from head to toe -- andask for tips on protecting your joints from daily stress. To learn more about joint health or to take the Joint Juice(R)joint health assessment, visit jointjuice.com.

Stay Healthy!Give Your Immune System a Boost

“It's been a wonderful stayhere at DouglasRehabilitationand Care Center,the staff are verykind and caring.The therapy department was amazing. On ascale of 1-10, I

give them a 10 1/2. The fact that I got tochoose from a menu at meal times was abig plus in my book. I would have no prob-lem coming back to Douglas or referringfamily and friends for rehabilitation needs.”

Douglas Rehabilitation3516 Powell Lane, Mattoon

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Another Successful RehabilitationDavid Kindelberger

700 Broadway Ave. East, Suite 9A • Mattoon, IL 61938(217) 235-5656

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Figs are tasty fruits that boast many health benefits.They can be an important component of a balanced diet.

Figs have been grown and enjoyed for centuries. Native tothe Middle East, figs grow on a ficus tree and come in dif-ferent varieties. The fruit ranges dramatically in color andsubtly in texture depending on the variety enjoyed. Turkey,Greece and even California are the top fig producers in theworld.

It's possible to find figs from late summer through theautumn, depending on location. Fresh figs are very delicateand have a short shelf life. They can be kept in the refriger-ator for about two days after being picked. Most people arefamiliar with the sweet dried figs that are available year-round.

One may not be aware of the health value of figs. Firstand foremost, figs are high in potassium, a mineral thathelps control blood pressure. Individuals who have highblood pressure should consider figs as a natural alternativeto medication or to use in conjunction with traditionaltherapies. According to medical research, low intake ofpotassium-rich foods, coupled with a high intake of sodium,can lead to hypertension.

Another benefit of figs is their high fiber content. Fiber-rich foods help promote a healthy digestive system, movingfood through the bowels easily. Fiber helps satiate a hun-gry person faster, meaning it's a tool that can be used forweight loss. Fiber may also help reduce the risk of certaincancers, like breast cancer.

Rich in calcium, figs can also promote bone health. Indi-viduals at risk for osteoporosis can consider eating figs aspart of a bone-strengthening regimen.

Information published in the Archives of Ophthalmologystate that eating fruit every day can help lower age-relatedrisk of macular degeneration, one of the primary causes ofvision loss in the elderly.

Make figs a part of a healthy diet. Here are some ways toenjoy this fruit.

* Eat fresh figs right off the tree. They're sweet andrefreshing.

* To satisfy a sweet tooth, enjoy fig-stuffed cookies.* Grind up dried figs with a little honey and use as a

spread on toast or bagels.* Stuff fresh, poached figs with nuts and enjoy.* Add bits of dried figs to recipes that call for raisins,

such as tarts or cookies.*Put chopped fresh figs in rice, quinoa or couscous dishes.* Fresh figs can be stuffed with goat cheese and topped

with sliced almonds for a tasty appetizer at parties.

'Fig'ure Out How toGet Figs Into Your Diet

Article IndexFigure Out How to Get Figs Into Your Diet . . . . . . . . . . . .2Stay Healthy! Give Your Immune System a Boost . . . . . .3Take Control of Your Joint Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3Lose Weight After 50 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4Easing the Burn: Recognize Causes of Heartburn . . . . . .4Plan Now for Long Term Medical Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Wrinkle Reduction Made Easy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Retirement Tip for Baby Boomers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Boomers Turning to Online Dating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Finding a Home Health Care Company to Trust . . . . . . .6Dogs Can Transform the Lives of People . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7Make the Move to Independent Retirement Living . . . . .8Downsizing Your Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9Get the Facts About Cataracts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10Fact About Glaucoma . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10New Hope for Those at Risk for Alzheimer’s . . . . . . . . . .11Healthy Aging Includes Safe Driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

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Bring in this adThe body needs vitamin D tohelp absorb calcium, which isresponsible for keeping bones,muscles and even the hearthealthy and strong. Withoutenough vitamin D, men andwomen are at a heightened riskfor osteoporosis, a bone condi-tion in which bones become brit-tle and fragile due to tissue loss.Vitamin D is also beneficial forthose who love to exercise.Muscles that don't get enoughcalcium will cramp, hurt or feelweak, possibly leading to chron-ic muscle aches and pains. If thebody is getting enough vitaminD, muscles are less likely tocramp or ache. While it's possi-ble to include vitamin D in a dailydiet, it's also difficult becausethere are not many foods rich invitamin D. However, men andwomen can take a multivitaminor even a vitamin D pill to ensurethey get their daily recommend-ed amount of vitamin D.

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Scientists are still racing to find a cure forAlzheimer's disease. Although there cur-rently is no cure for Alzheimer's, evidencepoints to strategies individuals can take tohelp slow the onset of the disease or helpprevent memory loss.

Although the symptoms and onset ofAlzheimer's disease are most notable duringa person's senior years, scientists say thatthe neurological changes of Alzheimer'sactually may start much earlier on -- asearly as when a person is in his or her 20s. Afrantic lifestyle, poor dietary choices andinactivity can contribute to Alzheimer's overone's lifetime. Recognizing behaviors orother habits that may contribute toAlzheimer's is the first step to makingchanges to prevent the condition.

Here are some facts to consider.* Obesity can increase risk for

Alzheimer's.* Smoking after the age of 65 makes a per-

son almost 80 percent more likely to developAlzheimer's.

* Diabetics are twice as likely to get thedisease.

* Genetics are only responsible for aboutone-quarter of Alzheimer's cases.

Although there aren't any magic pills orpotions, there are easy things anyone can doto reduce risk of Alzheimer's disease.

* Stop smoking and greatly reduce alcoholintake.

* Manage diet to control or prevent dia-betes.

* Avoid activities that can lead to headinjuries.

* Eat a balanced diet, and one that limitsprocessed foods.

* Enjoy brain-friendly foods, such asthose high in Omega fatty acids.

* Make attempts to reduce stress.* Avoid a sedentary lifestyle and behav-

iors that lead to obesity.* Prevent high cholesterol and hyperten-

sion.* Get plenty of sleep and restorative rest.* Keep the mind active with puzzles, read-

ing and other thought-inducing activities.The Mayo Clinic reports that exercise is

very important to keeping Alzheimer's atbay. In fact, it may be the most importantcomponent of preventing the disease. Scien-tists have documented that physical activityeffectively reduces the probability ofAlzheimer's disease and other dementiasover the duration of time. This makes exer-cise an essential part of anyone's lifestyle.

Journal Gazette & Times-Courier FEB 2011 • 11O u r Ti m e

Crossword Puzzle History

Thousands of crossword puzzles are a form of

entertainment for puzzle enthusiasts all around

world. They appear in newspapers and cross-

word books and serve as a tool for educating

young children. Crosswords have been in exis-

tence since the early 1900s.

Arthur Wynne, an English-born journalist at the

New York World, is credited with inventing the

crossword puzzle.

Wynne based his word-cross, as it was originally

named, after an ancient game that originated in

Pompeii, translated from Latin to mean "magic

squares," which Wynne had played as a child.

The first puzzle was a diamond shape.

The World published Wynne's crossword puzzle

in its 8-page "Fun" section as a mental exercise.

Thanks to its clever shape and easy clues, it was

a success with readers. Eventually other news-

papers wanted to publish crossword puzzles,

too.

By 1923, most newspapers in the U.S. and Great

Britain were publishing crosswords. Simon and

Schuster published the first crossword collection

book. The New York Times was one of the only

newspapers that did not publish crosswords. It

also frowned on comic strips.

However, the paper eventual-

ly succumbed, and printed

its very first crossword in

1950.

Today crossword puz-

zles appear in period-

icals across the

globe and can

even be produced

at home with computer

software.

Healthy Aging Includes Safe DrivingIt's common for men and

women to periodicallyreassess their lifestyle asthey age. With a goal towardhealthy aging, most peoplecan recognize the role theirlifestyle plays in their over-all health.

An often overlooked part ofhealthy aging is how some, ifany, physical changes haveaffected how a person driveshis or her automobile. Anyadult who has had to discussdriving with an elderly rela-tive knows how difficult sucha discussion can be, as auto-mobiles have long represent-ed a certain level of inde-pendence no adult wants to give up. But even those who haveyet to reach retirement age should assess their driving todetermine if aging has begun to affect their driving. Such anassessment can help men and women determine if it's time totake steps to make themselves safer drivers.

Assess EyesightA driver's eyesight is integral to his or her safety on the

road. Fortunately, eyesight can be corrected with prescriptionglasses or even surgery. Men and women who have troublereading street signs or seeing street markings might need aneye examination. Also, if dusk or nighttime driving has grownmore difficult it might be time for an eye exam.Difficulty see-ing while behind the wheel puts drivers and their passengersat significant risk, but such a problem might be solved by anew eyeglass prescription.

Poor visibility might have nothing to do with a driver'svision. It could be a byproduct of certain external factors. Driv-ers having trouble seeing might consider adjusting their seat.According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administra-tion, drivers should be able to see at least 10 feet in front oftheir own vehicle. A seat that is too low can decrease visibility.In addition, when taking a vehicle in for routine repairs, askthe mechanic to inspect the headlights to make sure they areworking and aimed correctly.

Assess the VehicleAs men and women age, they may find it is more difficult to

control a motor vehicle. Strength, coordination and flexibilitydiminish as a person ages, and this can affect a person's abili-ty to drive. But such physiological changes don't necessarilymean a person has to give up driving. It might just mean it'stime to find a car that's easier to drive. For example, manydrivers prefer vehicles with manual transmissions, feelingsuch cars are more fun to drive. However, as a person ages, theease of driving a vehicle with an automatic transmission,power steering and power brakes can make it much safer forthat driver to be on the road. Older drivers often find smallervehicles are easier to control, and such drivers should consid-er smaller cars if they're having trouble controlling their cur-rent vehicle.

Assess Personal Feelings Toward DrivingHow a driver feels toward driving can also play a role in that

driver's safety. Drivers who feel nervous or overwhelmedwhen driving don't necessarily need to abandon their vehiclesand embrace public transportation. Such feelings might becaused by a driver's medication. Medication can make peoplesleepy or cause dizziness. Either of those side effects can leadto confused drivers who are easily overwhelmed when enter-ing traffic. Discuss any symptoms with a physician, who mightknow alternative treatment options that enable drivers tosafely stay on the road.

For more information, visit the National Highway TrafficSafety Administration at www.nhtsa.gov.

New Hope for Those at Risk for Alzheimer's

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OurTimeFebruary 2011