Salute to Seniors Loneliness could be hurting your health. Page 2. Older and younger workers are a great combination. Page 3. Couples trips are a new trend for seniors. Page 6.
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FRIDAY, JUNE 26, 2015 SECTION B
PAGE 2 ■ SENIOR CITIZEN SALUTE
THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, JUNE 26, 2015
Being lonely can hurt your health, so take steps to get out into the world. SOUNDSCAPE MUSIC THERAPY CREATORS.COM
Loneliness could be hurting your health By SHARON NAYLOR Creators.com It’s supposed to be the golden years, not the lonely years. If you’re finding yourself alone more often than you’d like, you’re not alone. According to a 2010 study by the U.S. Census Bureau, 28 percent (11 million) of people 65 or older lived alone, having been widowed, divorced or never married. The AARP says that more and more older adults do not have children, either. Add to that the reality that those with children and grandchildren may live several states away, and many seniors are left with a home that is too quiet. Whether from family distance or from decreased mobility as you age, your world has gotten smaller and that’s not good for your health. Here are some health risks related to isolation: 1) A 2009 study from the National Social Life, Health and Aging Project says that seniors who feel lonely and isolated report not having good physical and/or mental health. 2) Feeling lonely can increase risks of cognitive decline and dementia. Your brain needs the stimulation of interaction, and having friends and family to talk to and spend time with exercises the different areas of the brain, strengthening them. We are wired to be social creatures, and not being social may have actual neurological detriments. 3) According to a 2012 study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, social isolation and feelings of loneliness are associated with a higher risk of mortality. For instance, if you live alone and interact with few people, there may be no one to help you seek medical attention or pay attention to your symptoms when you are ill. 4) Social isolation is linked to chronic illnesses, such as arthritis and lung disease. 5) Isolation is a risk factor for depression. When depressed, you may forget to take your medicines, have little to no appetite, lose or gain weight, and you may feel despondent enough to harm yourself.
6) Isolation can make you vulnerable to elder abuse. If you are alone, the people who do enter your home to care for you may take advantage of your isolated status. 7) Loneliness can cause high blood pressure. According to a 2010 study in Psychology and Aging, there is a direct correlation between loneliness and higher systolic blood pressure. 8) Being isolated increases your risk of needing long-term care. 9) Being lonely increases negativity, which can further reduce your social circle when people avoid you. 10) Being lonely can encourage unhealthy behaviors, like eating badly and not exercising. Even without a spouse, kids or family members who can visit often, it is within your power to combat loneliness and step out of isolation. The first step is acknowledging that you may have gotten too comfortable being alone. You make and receive phone calls, and while that interaction may be cheery, it’s not enough to foster a healthier lifestyle. So in addition to calling loved ones and interacting on social media and Skype, consider the following smart steps to ending your isolation: ■■ Say hello to neighbors. If you see them outside, step outside to say a quick hello. It’s quite easy to strike up a friendly relationship with the people who live around you. ■■ Ask neighbors whether there is a book club in the area, one that might be within walking distance. You might not know that the locals get together once a month at alternating houses to discuss books and enjoy snacks. Even if you can’t go every month, you’ll belong to a group and be more social. ■■ Call your local senior center and ask to be put on their mailing list. Senior centers often host parties and social events, and they may have a free shuttle to take you there and back. ■■ Call your local animal shelter and ask whether they need volunteers. From holding puppies to manning the desk on adoption days, you’ll interact with people
on a daily basis, perhaps finding friends in your co-workers. Plus, you will be around blood pressurelowering animals. ■■ Volunteer elsewhere. At your library, ask for help in navigating the Internet to find opportunities at VolunteerMatch, where new and ongoing volunteer positions are posted. You might volunteer to simply cheer on runners at a 5K or read to children at a hospital. ■■ Move to a high-quality se-
niors community. It’s not a nursing home, but rather a neighborhood filled with seniors your age, with planned activities and close proximity to other seniors looking for social interaction. ■■ Check your library’s events page. They will often hold author book signings and lectures that you can attend for free, interacting with others and enriching your life. ■■ Take a class. Your town may
have an adult education center with a long list of daytime and evening classes in crafts, language, art history, writing, seniors yoga and other courses. You might even qualify for a discount. And of course, use your social media connections to plan events to bring your family and friends to you. You might plan a lunch or a trip to the movies for a matinee, being the leader in your own exit from loneliness.
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SENIOR CITIZEN SALUTE ■ PAGE 3
Older, younger workers a great combination By MICHAEL MAZUR Special Sections Writer SANTA CLAUS — Not all who retire stay retired. As needs and circumstances change, many retirees decide to go back to work in some capacity, finding work to help supplement income, stay connected, continue to contribute to the betterment of a community, eradicate boredom and take their minds off worries. Working again in some capacity can enhance the quality of life of retired seniors, making them happier. Never say never. Take Nancy Rohl, 72, who retired in 1999 from working in the administration office for the Greater Jasper Consolidated Schools. She and her husband, Bill, who retired as superintendent from Southeast Dubois Schools, decided after a few years of retirement that they needed to find something to do after a grandchild was diagnosed with leukemia. They needed to find something to take Their minds off of worrying, she said. When Rohl saw a help wanted ad for Holiday World, she asked her daughter if she would apply with her in spite of her misconception that she was too old and they wouldn’t hire her. After her daughter received a letter from Holiday World and, as of that time, Rohl hadn’t, the circumstance only confirmed what Rohl thought. She cried. But those tears were for naught because she later also received a letter. Her husband substitute teaches during the winter months. Holiday World has been hiring senior workers for a long time, said Paula Werne, communications director for the theme park in Santa Claus. They employ workers 14 and older. At the moment, 104 seasonal employees are
at least 55 years old with 40 percent of that group male and 67 of the group 60 or older. The workers have brought with them varying degrees of experiences and skills from all walks of life. They were teachers, administrators, nurses, factory workers, librarians, insurance agents, homemakers, skilled trades workers and executives. The interaction between the young hosts and hostesses and the older hosts and hostesses creates a dynamic working relationship between the two demographics. According to a 2014 Society for Human Resource Management survey, the top three advantages of older workers compared with other workers are that they have more work experience, are more mature and professional and a have stronger work ethic. “We appreciate having a mix of ages and experience in our crews. The more seasoned employees bring a level of maturity plus a strong work ethic. The employees who come to us as their first employer bring energy and enthusiasm to their crews. Often too, they bring a knowledge of and comfort with computers that they’re happy to share with their more seasoned counterparts.” said Heather Smallwood, Holiday World’s director of human resources. “Some wonderful friendships are formed across the generations each season.” Werne’s 15 year-old son, James, who just started working at the park this summer, has mentioned how well he likes working with Rohl, Werne said. Just last Friday said he taught a “few of the mature ladies on his crew how to use shortcuts on their computers.” He told his mother his older coworkers were thrilled. A variety of jobs are available
Nancy Rohl, 72, welcomes visitors to Holiday World at the admissions gate. at the park to fit one’s interests. “For those who like to cook, they may want to work in one of the kitchens. Gardeners can enjoy being part of the grounds and flowers crew. Early birds can enjoy morning cleaning and shop-tilldrop types enjoy the retail department,” Werne said. Rohl’s first four years were spent in the housekeeping department and at Holly Mart selling
50 is the new 50: Enjoy your age By MARGO B. YONGE Creators.com Saying that “50 is the new 30” is a form denial. But why deny what you’ve worked your whole life to achieve? You’ve crossed so many finish lines, reaching goal after goal. Besides, were you happier at 30? Our society places an enormous amount of emphasis on looks, but the secret to real beauty is happiness within. Being happy does not come from good looks, money or youth. Take a step back and see what you’ve achieved so far. By 50, you’ve likely finished your formal education. And you did it the hard way — trudging to the library, using books, manually looking up info, etc. You’ve decided whom to marry. Or not. You’ve made decisions one way or another about relationships. If you have children, you’ve made key decisions about them, such as how and when to say yes and no. You’ve likely learned that it’s a lot easier to say yes but that saying no can have long benefits for both you and your child. As child psychologist Ray Guarendi points out, if you don’t say no now, a teacher, boss, police officer or judge may later. By 50, you’ve decided where and how to live. You’ve settled in with friends. You probably have some exercise in your life, but if not, it’s easy for most to pick up a pedometer and start walking each day. Maybe you’ve overcome cancer or another major illness. Fifty
is a blessing! You’ve made career and financial decisions by 50. You’ve endured the ups and downs of recessions and economic booms. So take comfort in the knowledge that you’ve weathered a lot of storms and made it through. But back to the question of good looks, happiness and aging. It’s wonderful and necessary to take care of yourself — mind, body, spirit. But often, people have turned so far inward that it becomes selfish rather than self-
reflecting. Narcissus might have been OK if he hadn’t kept staring. Perhaps we can take care of ourselves and others, as well. Finding happiness by serving others sounds like an ancient Christian concept, but perhaps it’s easier than you think. And good for you. According to the U.S. News & World Report e-book by Philip Moeller, “How to Live to 100,” volunteering has great benefits. “Volunteering improves the health, happiness, and in some cases, the longevity of volunteers.”
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uniforms and supplies to the hosts and hostesses. In the past two years, she feels she has found her spot at the admissions gate. Working from four to six hours on a given day, she scans tickets, checking for dates and oberseving the heights of children to make sure all is in order. She greets everyone with a smile. “When I see the big yellow ball (Holiday World’s water tower), it
puts a smile on my face and I try to keep smiling all day long,” she said. Rohl said the peak times during the day are from 9:30 a.m. to about 1 p.m. But around the Fourth of July, when summer vacation really starts to take off, the park is at its busiest. Rohl’s favorite time at the amusement park is Play Day, a day reserved for children with disabilities. “It is a special day for these kids,” Werne said. “It gives them a chance to interact with other kids with disabilities.” It makes Rohl’s heart pound when she sees the children smiling and laughing and having a good time. Rohl has many fond memories and experiences working at Holiday World, but two stand out as what she terms adorable. She remembers one little guy, maybe 2 years old who came through the gate and wanted a park map even though he had been there a lot of times. He hadn’t yet learned to read. He looked at the map, folded it and stuck it in his back pocket. Another time, a boy in the park began speaking to her very excitedly but she could not understand what he was saying. The boy’s mother explained that he had just learned his phone number and he was telling it to her. “He wanted me to have it while he was in the park in case he got lost,” Rohl said. Every year, she treats her children and grandchildren to a day at the park. “It is my family away from home,” Rohl said. “People are not going to want to hear this, but everyone should work as long as they are able to in some capacity. I want to work until I am 100.”
PAGE 4 ■ SENIOR CITIZEN SALUTE
THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, JUNE 26, 2015
THE NATIONAL INSTITUTE ON AGING/CREATORS.COM
Walking improves cardiac output, strengthens legs and hips and improves balance.
Regular exercise helps keep seniors young By CHELLE CORDERO Creators.com There really isn’t a magical fountain of youth, but with increased regular physical activity you can increase the enjoyment of your golden years, improve your overall health and possibly lengthen your life expectancy. A 2013 study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine stated emphatically, “Physical inactivity is the fourth leading risk factor for premature death.” Hypertension, obesity, arthritis and diabetes are some of the common conditions that plague folks ages 45 and older; however, regular exercise can help shed pounds, tone muscles, lower blood pressure and control diabetes. After years of job stress, retirees especially can benefit from starting an exercise program, something they may not have had the time or opportunity to pursue during their earlier years. The American College of Sports Medicine estimates that by the year 2030, people age 85 and
older will be the fastest growing group in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other institutions have studied the effects of aging: By age 40, muscle mass begins to decrease and metabolism slows. Endurance begins to lessen. Balance is affected as muscles and bones weaken and the risk of injuries from falls is greater. Doctors even found a correlation between the speed of walking and coronary diseases. A focus group was studied and it was found that the slower a person walked, the higher the risk was for cardiac problems. Some participants couldn’t walk a quarter mile due to fatigue, shortness of breath and pain. Older and inactive adults also tend to lose range of motion in their joints, making everyday activities and previously fun pursuits difficult. Adults 55 years of age or older will also begin to lose brain tissue; however, cardiovascular fitness and muscle mass will slow that loss substantially. Exercise has also been known to combat depression. It is never too late to
begin an exercise program. Ideally, no exercise program should be started before speaking to your doctor. Even low-impact activities such as walking, or favorite pastimes like golf or dancing, can start burning calories and toning your body. When you drive to the grocery store, try parking your car a little further away in the parking lot. Walk on the golf course instead of using a cart. Take an extra trip up and down your household steps now and then. Damaged joints, brittle bones and loss of balance can sometimes mean that high-impact workouts may hurt more than they help. Your exercise plan should be catered to your physical needs. Personal trainers can help you create a routine that will let you improve
stamina, endurance and balance. Ignore the adage: “No pain, no gain.” Healthy exercise should not cause you lasting pain or damage. Focus on exercises that fit your lifestyle. Isometric and water aerobics are low-impact activities that will strengthen muscles, rebuild bone density, improve cardiac output and improve your overall health. Brisk walking for just 30 minutes a day will strengthen your legs and hips, improve circulation and increase your life expectancy. Low impact and calming tai chi will minimize stresses on the body and improve health. The National Institute on Aging offers sound advice on their website. They also offer a free exercise DVD that targets seniors — visit the website or call 800-222-2225 to order your free
DVD or to download an easy-tocarry exercise routine. The Go4Life exercises make use of common household items and can be done at your convenience. Exercises include the wall push-up to help build upper body strength, stretching to increase flexibility, overhead arm lifts with weights to strengthen bones and balancing exercises. Participants are encouraged to exercise every day. The Go4Life workout from the National Institute on Aging is ideal for the first-time exercise enthusiast, the person returning to regular physical activity after a break and anyone desiring a scientifically designed routine to maintain body tone to help as they age. Even if you haven’t had a daily exercise regimen before, it isn’t too late to start.
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Bad connection can actually be bad hearing By DIANE SCHLINDWEIN Creators.com If you find yourself asking others to repeat themselves because your hearing isn’t what it used to be, you aren’t alone. Hearing loss affects about 20 percent of American adults; that’s 48 million people. Moreover, by age 65, one out of three individuals has diminished hearing. Over half of Americans who are 75 or older have the health issue. And this particular problem doesn’t just affect the senior population; an estimated 30 children per 1,000 have less than perfect hearing. Though millions of adults suffer, only one out of five people who could benefit from a hearing aid actually wears one. Moreover, 26 million Americans between the ages of 20 and 69 have highfrequency hearing loss because of exposure to loud sounds or noise at work or in leisure activities. Often the older you are the worse your hearing. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, sounds can be harmful when they are too loud, even for a brief time, or when they are both loud and longlasting. People of all ages, including children, teens, young adults and older people, develop noise-
induced hearing loss, or NIHL. If you are a baby boomer who attended a lot of rock concerts in the ’60s and ’70s, chances are you are paying for that now. NIHL can be prevented by wearing earplugs or preventive devices when involved in a loud activity — such as using power tools or attending a very loud concert. If you are a grandparent, keep your grandchild safe by protecting their ears, and don’t be afraid to remind parents to do the same thing. Most important, have your hearing tested. Audiologist Sharon Green says, “I see patients every day who benefit enormously from treatment. Unfortunately, a large number of them have needlessly suffered by waiting too long to seek help.” Green says it’s important to recognize the signs of hearing loss: inattentiveness; buzzing or ringing in the ears; failure to respond to spoken words; muffled hearing; or constant frustration in hearing speech or other sounds. Untreated hearing loss is tied to social isolation, depression, early exit from the workplace and a reduced quality of life. New research also has found a strong link between the degree of hearing loss and the risk of developing dementia.
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To fit a hearing aid that is right for the patient, an audiologist must first determine the hearing lifestyle of the patient. Someone who lives with a lot of background noise needs different technology than someone who lives a very quiet lifestyle. Modern hearing aids are much improved over those that your parents might have worn. Audiologists who have been
practicing for a few decades have witnessed a dramatic change in the delivery of hearing care services. Remember, however, that hearing aids are designed to aid a person’s hearing. They can’t restore human hearing, nor will they stop the progress of hearing loss. Moreover, it does take time to learn to live with a hearing aid. A dedicated professional
who is willing to make adjustments to the hearing device can speed up the process. “I suggest people familiarize themselves with the signs (of hearing loss) and seek a hearing assessment from an audiologist if they have a question about their hearing or a loved one’s hearing,” Green says. “Treatment is often easier and more effective than people think.”
Downsize to increase amenities and freedom By ERIC CHRISTENSEN Creators.com After retiring, many seniors view their home as more of a burden then an asset: big, empty and costly. Increasingly, retirees are trading their houses for apartment complexes designed exclusively for seniors. However, these aren’t like the retirement homes or nursing homes most people imagine. These are sleek, modern complexes filled with amenities that cater to active seniors who value low-cost living, freedom and flexibility. Downsizing to an apartment can be a great way to make retirement more affordable. With a much lower cost of living, seniors can pay rent instead of a mortgage, property taxes and maintenance costs. Utility bills are often far lower as well, and sometimes those bills are included in the rent. Additionally, seniors can help fund their retirement by cashing in on years of home equity. However, some senior apartment complexes can be very small, and the downsizing might be more extreme than originally envisioned. Nevertheless, by moving into an apartment building, seniors have more freedom to both relocate and travel. Senior apartment complexes can be found nationwide, and retirees can move to a new city— maybe one they’ve always wanted to live in or one near a new grandchild. Moreover, apartment residents can simply lock up their unit and go on vacation. They can rely on building management to take care of all the little things a homeowner would need to plan for prior to going on vacation, such as picking up the mail, mowing the lawn and watering the plants. But perhaps the best reason
to move into a senior apartment complex is the wide variety of amenities. Most senior apartment complexes will include some form of clubhouse, meeting room or party room. Many will also feature pools, fitness centers and onsite laundry facilities. Some complexes will also plan and organize outings to visit nearby activities or tourist destinations. Many seniors find these amenities particularly exciting because they will share these amenities exclusively with their peers, instead of residents of all ages like in a typical apartment complex. High-end senior apartment complexes will offer more luxurious amenities, but they will also charge higher rent or fees in return. These deluxe amenities can include tennis, volleyball or basketball courts, as well as libraries and outdoor barbecue and picnic areas. Some of the top-of-the-line senior apartment complexes will feel more like country clubs than
apartment buildings, offering access to restaurants, golf courses, trails, lakes and ponds and even marinas. Senior apartment complexes are quite common, but far from identical. Interested seniors should take the time to locate the complex that is the right blend of costs and benefits for them. But the search shouldn’t stop there. Retirees should look at a number of factors when choosing the right senior apartment complex for them. Examine the location of the building. Does it offer public transportation options? What dining, shopping and other services are nearby? Is there plenty of parking? Next, look at the building itself. Are the grounds looked after? Is the building secure? Do residents have access to storage spaces? Does it offer the necessary accessibility, both at building entrances and in the units themselves? For example, does the building have a lot of stairs? Do the showers in-
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maintenance does your rent cover? Does the building’s budget have a reserve fund for unplanned repairs and improvements? Are the financials of the management company in good order? What is the projection for future rent increases?
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THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, JUNE 26, 2015
Seniors planning ‘couples trips’ a new trend By SHARON NAYLOR Creators.com Remember the Alan Alda movie “The Four Seasons,” in which couples who were longtime friends vacationed together on a regular basis? That 1981 movie continues to inspire, as seniors planning their big vacation of the year are now choosing to travel with their best couple friends. Yes, vacationing with the kids and grandkids is still on their todo list. But with the overall health benefits from keeping close friendships, many seniors now plan an annual getaway with their best friends, or celebrate a milestone anniversary or birthday at a fivestar tropical resort, sipping pina coladas with their friends. And some seniors “carpe diem” each year with a trip just for their circle of couple friends. According to the Travel Industry Association of America, trips taken by mature travelers aged 55-plus accounted for almost half of domestic trips taken, and senior citizens accounted for nearly onethird of domestic travel. With some disposable income and free time after retirement, travel is a high priority for many seniors, and they’d like to see destinations that have long been on their wish list. If you’re interested in inviting your closest couple friends on a vacation with you, keep these important tips in mind: ■■ Plan for privacy. If you’re not used to sharing a hotel room with anyone other than your partner, now is not the time to experiment with “you take that double bed, and we’ll take the other.” Your friends, too, will have their own comfort levels with sharing a room, even a two-bedroom suite, and especially with sharing a bathroom. Separate rooms might be the way to go. ■■ Decide on a trip style. Do you want to go to a tropical island, or is a cruise more your style? Cruises come in different shapes and sizes, from expedition cruises with adventure on the agenda to theme cruises, international cruises and luxury yacht cruises with a private staff and your own staterooms. ■■ Decide on your independence level. A guided tour keeps you on a strict schedule, and if you don’t book a custom tour, you could spend your week with other travelers with whom you do not mesh. A nonstructured tour lets you relax when you want and tour as you wish. ■■ Decide on the right weather. You may feel achy in the cold, which could eliminate wintry va-
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When taking a trip with other couples, make sure to take some time for just the two of you. cation destinations, or you may hate humidity. ■■ Decide on a budget that works for all couples. Discussing money with friends is never comfortable, especially if one couple in your group is more monied than others. But if everyone searches for some budget-friendly options, you can agree as a group on an acceptable spending amount. Consider all-inclusive resorts that may not seem budget-best at first, but if you’re not paying for every meal, snack and drink, this option could work for everyone. ■■ Start with a short trip. If you haven’t traveled with another couple before, you don’t know whether it’s something you’ll enjoy. Better to enjoy three quick days together than to be stuck on a two-week tour with friends whose traveling style doesn’t mesh with yours. If you love it, you can always plan a longer trip next time. ■■ Think about accessibility for all members of your group. If a resort is hilly, your less mobile friends may struggle getting around on foot and may not like having to be shuttled while everyone else strolls in the tropical moonlight. ■■ Agree on time spent together versus time spent apart. Making a plan to “spend most of the trip together, but some time doing our own thing” gets everyone’s expectations in line.
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Some of the most popular adventures and activities enjoyed by seniors while on vacation include: ■■ Cruises. It may be a fourhour sunset ferry ride around the island, or it may be an all-day sail aboard a private yacht with a short excursion for a gourmet lunch. MaryAnne DeMatteo Diamante, sales director for Jumby Bay Resort on an island off Antigua, says, “A yacht outing provides VIP service with your own staff, which can be a very special surprise for a group member having a milestone birthday or a couple having a special anniversary.” ■■ Snorkeling. Being in the water may be comfortable for those
with knee or back issues, and snorkeling in a great location provides activity and great scenery. ■■ Fine dining. Many resorts have spectacular chefs in residence, and a delectable meal followed by a shared dessert and fine wine or bubbly creates an unforgettable evening -- especially if the meal comes with a great view. ■■ Shopping. Duty-free shopping opens up opportunities to indulge. For many senior couples, the athletes may play golf or tennis on award-winning courses or courts, while the non-athletic may take the afternoon to visit the shops. ■■ Nature tours. Check with the concierge about the ease of
guided hikes or bike tours, or explore your resort grounds on your own to photograph flowers, trees, ocean jetties and other sights. ■■ Private dinners on the beach. Again, this may be a surprise, but many resorts will set up a private candlelit table and serve dinner to you as the sun sets. Before booking any vacation, always check with your doctor about any advice you should follow in the region of your vacation (such as taking extra cautions against mosquitoes), and be sure you have enough medication to allow for any delays in your return home. With your safety as a focus, you can enjoy your couples getaway.
THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, JUNE 26, 2015
SENIOR CITIZEN SALUTE ■ PAGE 7
Tips to keep travelers safe and healthy By SHARON NAYLOR Creators.com Today’s senior citizens are traveling the world, taking trips of a lifetime to exotic lands and fulfilling dreams to visit more regions of the United States. Those seniors who have the time and money to travel and are Internetsavvy enough to research and book their dream getaways “strive to squeeze the most they can out of every moment of their lives,” says Joe Marconi, author of “Future Marketing: Targeting Seniors, Boomers and Generations X and Y.” According to the Yankelovich Monitor report on consumer research, 58 percent of seniors take overnight vacations (usually guided tours) several times a year. Many seniors enjoy travel so much that they buy vacation homes or invest in timeshares to have a second home to enjoy. And they’re not traveling alone. According to the American Animal Hospital Association, 36 percent of senior travelers not only travel with their pets, but they also invest in travel accessories for their pets: travel beds, bags, water and food bowls, seat belts and more. While keeping pets safe during travel is a priority for any animal lover, it’s of the utmost importance to keep yourself safe, as well. You may be far away from your doctors or a quality hospital, so practice smart self-care while on vacation and take smart wellness steps before you go on your getaway:
Before your yravels ■■ As you decide where in the world to visit, think about the elements of the locale that could affect your health, such as the climate and especially the altitude. Some seniors with heart or respiratory conditions could find it harder to breathe at high altitudes, and heat and humidity can also affect health issues. Think also about whether the region is prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes. ■■ Looking more closely at resorts or guided tours, check into the amount of walking that will be involved, especially if the resort or tour covers hilly terrain. Ask whether the resort offers shuttle service and whether you can have a room that doesn’t require much walking or stair-climbing. “At Caneel Bay Resort, our eco-friendly shuttles run constantly, so you’ll never have to wait in the sun to catch an easy shuttle bus ride over a hill, to the dining areas or to one of our beaches,” says Patrick Kidd, director of sales for Caneel Bay Resort on St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands. ■■ Get a pre-travel checkup. Visit your doctor for a pre-trip checkup and tell your physician about any illnesses and medications you’re on. Your doctor can provide you with the vaccines needed for the region in which you’ll be traveling, as well as important shots such as tetanus. More than half of tetanus cases occur in people older than 65, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Other important vaccines include those for hepati-
may need to get an international phone or plan, and ask your resort whether they offer free wifi to make connecting to home easier and less expensive.
CANEEL BAY/CREATORS.COM
Seniors are taking the leap and traveling more in their retirement. tis, typhoid and polio. Check the list of recommended vaccines and potential limitations for seniors at cdc.gov, which lists suggested vaccines by country. ■■ While visiting your doctor, get prescriptions for common travel illnesses, as well as refreshed prescriptions for medications you regularly take, and bring your medications in their bottles along
with copies of your prescriptions. ■■ Consider getting travel insurance to help defray the costs of medical treatment. The CDC advises looking into evacuation insurance, as well, to cover the costs of emergency transportation to the nearest hospital or to a safe zone. ■■ Make sure your smartphone will work where you are. You
During your travels ■■ Always wear sunscreen, even when you’re not on the beach. The sun can shine on you regardless of where you are and increase your risk of skin cancer. Hats and UV sunglasses further protect you. ■■ Always wear a seat belt, no matter what mode of transportation you’re using. ■■ Stay on paved pathways while walking around a resort. Some islands have red ant colonies in their lawns. Ant bites are painful, and you could be allergic. ■■ Use insect repellents while on vacation to help prevent mosquito-borne illnesses and discomfort from bites. ■■ Use hand sanitizers regularly, especially before each meal, to protect yourself from germs and illnesses. ■■ Take food and water precautions seriously. In some regions, water can carry bacteria that lead to illness. ■■ Don’t travel at night in questionable areas. It may be safest to stay on resort grounds. For more travel tips for seniors, visit cdc.gov/travel. And before you go away, make sure a loved one has your complete travel itinerary, as well as contact information for your resort or tour. If you have any health conditions, wear a medical information bracelet, and if your itinerary gets too challenging, slow down and relax.
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PAGE 8 ■ SENIOR CITIZEN SALUTE
THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, JUNE 26, 2015
SARAH AUSE KICHAS/BEST FRIENDS ANIMAL SOCIETY
Research shows pets can help reduce depression, loneliness and high blood pressure in seniors.
Dogs, cats offer more than companionship By KRISTEN CASTILLO Creators.com Dogs are full of activity, and cats are great companions, but which is a better pet for a senior citizen? It all depends on the individual. In a recent survey by the American Pet Products Association, 68 percent of U.S. households have a pet, with cats, dogs and freshwater fish being the most popular pets. While it doesn’t necessarily matter which specific pet a senior has in his or her life, it is important to know the affect a pet can have in an owner’s life. “Research tells us that companion animals reduce depression, lower blood pressure, ease loneliness, increase physical activity and provide serenity, especially to seniors living alone,” says Kellie Benz, marketing and communications manager for PAWS in Washington state, a nonprofit that shelters and adopts homeless cats and dogs as well as rehabilitates injured and orphaned wildlife. Older pets It might seem like a good idea to pair a young animal, such as a kitten or a puppy with a senior, but that’s the wrong approach, according to animal experts. “Seniors for seniors” is the way to go, says Kristi Littrell, adoption manager at Best Friends Animal Society, a national animal welfare organization that has adoption centers in Los Angeles and Salt Lake City. PAWS has a Seniors for Seniors adoption program which places senior cats and dogs that are typically seven years or older with seniors 60 or older. Senior animals have many advantages typically including being house trained, not too rambunctious and an even temperament. Even if a pet has health problems, seniors often relate. “One of my favorite memories is of an elderly woman who was meeting several cats with the idea
of adopting one of them,” says Littrell. “I told her one of the senior cats she was considering had arthritis and she said ‘Oh, that’s OK, I have arthritis, too.’ They suited each other perfectly and it was a great adoption.” Littrell knows firsthand how great senior pets can be. She cared for a 20-year-old cat for three years following the cat’s owner’s death, and she took care of a 14-year-old dog with kidney failure that lived for 18 months beyond its onemonth life expectancy. “So the moral of the story is never discount senior pets or senior citizens,” she says. “Even if they have some physical challenges, there is still a lot of life and love in them. Factors to consider Before adopting a pet, seniors need to consider what’s involved, such as the pet’s size and activity levels, as well as feeding and grooming costs. “Consider the pet who best suits your lifestyle,” says Benz, who explains an adoption advisor should review these factors prior to adoption. While fish and small pets such as gerbils or rabbits can be enter-
with a good book” and “keeping a lap warm while watching the evening news.”
SARAH AUSE KICHAS/BEST FRIENDS ANIMAL SOCIETY
Matching seniors with older pets almost always works out. taining and somewhat low-maintenance, seniors do well with dogs and cats. Active seniors pair well with adult dogs that enjoy daily walks and regular car rides.
“Adult cats are ideal for anyone seeking companionship but not interested in an active lifestyle,” says Benz, noting that cats love sitting in front of sunny windows, “curling up on the couch
Pet sitting Seniors who can’t commit to owning a pet full time can still benefit from time with an animal. Websites such as Rover.com connect pet owners with pet sitters, including seniors who want to enjoy socializing with dogs on a flexible schedule. “Traveling dog owners can feel comfortable knowing their pooch is in the caring hands of an elderly person, getting individual attention, and a willing senior can get the benefits of dog friendship at their own convenience,” says Pete Bahrenburg, a spokesman for Rover. The pet-sitting site doesn’t include any fees or time minimums, plus there’s around-the-clock customer service. “They just sign up and decide when they want a loving pup to join them at their house for a play date,” says Bahrenburg. Whether they’re spending time with their own pet or simply pet sitting, seniors will thrive on the interaction and the fun. After all, as Littrell explains, “senior pets have no lack of personality.”
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THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, JUNE 26, 2015
SENIOR CITIZEN SALUTE ■ PAGE 9
Top trends in accessory style for seniors By SHARON NAYLOR Creators.com A great accessory can give new life to any outfit, even a basic outfit such as black pants and a white shirt that you’ve owned for a few years. Adding a new, stylish accessory to an existing outfit or dress from your closet can make it look brand new. And even more expensive. If you’re on a budget, you can refresh your wardrobe without spending a fortune on trendy designer clothing just by accessorizing with a fun and perhaps flashy accessory or two. And there’s something so exciting about wearing a stylish new bangle, necklace or ring. If you’ve seen pretty accessories in magazines or on Pinterest, don’t make the mistake of thinking, “I’m too old to wear that,” and definitely don’t make the mistake of thinking that chunkier jewelry will make you look older. Image consultant Brenda Kinsel, owner of the style and wardrobe consulting company Inside Out and author of five books, including “40 Over 40: 40 Things Every Woman Over 40 Needs to Know About Getting Dressed” and “In the Dressing Room with Brenda: A Fun and Practical Guide to Buying Smart and Looking Great,” says that senior women can wear the trendiest accessories. “Remember, a little goes a long way to demonstrate your fashion sense without becoming a caricature,” says Kinsel. If you’re enticed by the fashion trend of leopard, but wisely know not to wear leopard print from head to toe, Kinsel suggests an item such as a leopard-print clutch to “add zest to your basics,” adding that “animal print is very chic.” And Kinsel also suggests
grouping items from the same color family, such as a bangle and scarf combination that adds color to the neutral clothing items you own. When accessories coordinate in hue, it creates a smooth and fashionable elegance. You can, of course, enjoy the trend of going colorful, wearing stacks of multicolored bangles or a necklace containing different shades of stones for a dramatic pop of color and a cheery color palette that’s right on trend with fashion styles. Kinsel suggests her 50 percent rule to help you avoid going too far with accessory trends. If you’d like to avoid 4-inch platform heels in a trendy color or pattern, use the 50 percent rule and wear the same color and pattern of shoe, only in a 2-inch heel. And wear a trend only on 50 percent of your body, such as a flowy patterned top with a simple, solid-shade pant. If trendy handbags are intricately detailed with studs, choose a style with half the accenting. “The older ladies I meet use fashion as a way to express themselves. Style is an art, and accessories become their paints,” says documentary filmmaker and senior-style reporter Ari Seth Cohen. When you “dial down” the details of trendy accessories, you become the artist of your own personal style. Kinsel says that balance is key: “If you have medium-to large-scale features, your jewelry should be the same scale. If you have delicate features, your jewelry should be delicate as well.” And think about creating your ‘signature’ piece of jewelry — a piece that complements your coloring, your style and the scale of your features, but also is very you. For instance, you might express your love of turquoise by
DUNE JEWELRY/CREATORS.COM
Bangles are a top accessory trend to energize your wardrobe. wearing it often or citrine gemstones or rose gold (a particularly big trend in fashion this year). This piece becomes “your look,” and makes you happy each time you wear it. Here are some of the top trends in accessories, ideal for senior ladies of any style personality, from elegant chic to statement-making artsy: ■■ Piles of bracelets. Experiment with wearing three, four, five or more bracelets. Create combinations of stone colors, go chunky or share your life story through charm or bead bracelets. Holly Daniels Christensen of The Original Beach Sand Jewelry Co. says that demand is up for bracelets made using sand from beaches ladies love, perhaps a favorite
vacation destination. ■■ Stone necklaces. Necklaces featuring different colors of stones add delicate pops of color to an outfit, and metallic necklaces are a top trend in fashion, wearable by you. ■■ Color against a black ensemble. Black may be slimming and feel chic, but when you add a bright yellow, green, blue or red statement necklace to it, you’re looking trendy and stylish. The same goes for brightly colored gloves worn with a black coat. ■■ Hats. Hats are in this season, and they look good on everyone. Choose from a simpler, chic pageboy hat to show off your bobbed haircut or again go with a brightly colored hat or one with a vibrant bow or silk flower.
■■ Brightly colored eyeglasses and sunglasses. Today’s trendy eyewear is 50s-inspired, with colorful black-and-white cateye styles leading the top looks, as well as vibrant shades of frames from red to zebra striped. ■■ Scarves. In intricate patterns or ladies-who-lunch houndstooth print, a scarf adds style to your look. ■■ Pins and brooches. From a sparkling rhinestone brooch pinned to a jacket lapel, to a ruffly silk flower pin affixed to your shirt or hat, these eye-catching accessories add flair to an outfit. ■■ Faux fur. In cooler weather, show your style with a faux fur hat, scarf and the trim of your gloves. ■■ Leopard print. Add a touch of this animal print to your scarf. A leopard clutch is also a great, easy-to-wear accent to an outfit in all black or in dramatic reds, purples, blues or browns. ■■ Handbag. Buy the pricy designer originals, perhaps during an outlet sale or in designers’ clearance sales, or tap into the looks-expensive handbags at your favorite store such as Target or Kohl’s to carry off the handbag trend. Choose from elegant tan or black as your main staple in this accessory category, and then also consider a handbag that pops, such as a fuchsia or cobalt blue for some vibrance during the dark winter months. Kinsel says that the trend of mixing expensive accessories with budget-priced accessories is here to stay and that you can pack a lot of style into a lower-priced item. So if you have a wardrobe of pricier clothing, your accessories that only look expensive but are well-styled to your outfit, elevate your entire look.
Dealing with arthritis pain Awaken Your Senses! By CHELLE CORDERO Creators.com Despite many comedic routines about waking up with Arthur Itis, for those who suffer it’s no laughing matter. Arthritis is an umbrella term for several dozen conditions, making the diagnosis, treatment and management difficult. Because of varying symptoms and different underlying causes, the things that may work for one patient may be far from ideal for another. Just a few of the more common forms of arthritis include: osteoarthritis, which is the most common and caused by the breakdown of cartilage in the joints; gout, which is caused from a build-up of uric acid crystals in the joints and other tissue; bursitis, which is caused when a fluid-filled sac at the joint that normally reduces friction becomes swollen and painful from overuse; bunions, which are the enlargement of the joint at the base of the big toe; and hammer toes, which are deformities caused by dislocations and often result in painful sores. Some forms of arthritis can be caused by infections, such as reactive arthritis, which includes inflammation the joints, eyes and parts of the gastrointestinal/genitourinary system after infection, and infectious arthritis, which is caused by blood-borne infections settling in joints. Autoimmune disorders lead the body’s immune system to attack healthy cells. Examples include rheumatoid arthritis, which causes inflammation of smaller joints and can affect the internal organs and
psoriatic arthritis, which affects patients with chronic psoriasis (a skin condition) and causes swollen joints, stiffness, reduced flexibility and fatigue. Older Americans are more prone to suffering from a form — or forms — of arthritis, but it is not, as once believed, an “old person’s disease.”
The National Institute on Aging recommends arthritis sufferers do “range-of-motion exercises, like dancing, to help stay flexible; strengthening exercises with weights to add to muscle strength; and aerobic or endurance exercises, like bicycle riding, to make your heart and arteries healthier, help prevent weight gain.
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PAGE 10 ■ SENIOR CITIZEN SALUTE
THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, JUNE 26, 2015
SUNRISE SENIOR LIVING/CREATORS.COM
It can be hard to judge if an assisted-living facility is right for your loved one.
Elderly care: Is assisted-living facility answer? By CATHERINE MCNULTY Creators.com As the population ages, elder care is becoming a pressing issue for many families. The time to decide what kind of elder care your loved ones should have is well before they actually need it. This is not a decision that should be made hastily. As tough as it is to have that kind of conversation, it must be had. So sit down with your loved ones and go over the worst-case scenario. It’s important to get their input on how they want to spend their twilight years while they still have a sound mind and body. Even with a plan in place, it can be hard to determine when an elder needs to go to an assistedcare facility. Elderly people taken out of their homes are more likely to suffer from depression, and for many aging people, this transition can mark the beginning of a
sharp decline. But when it is no longer feasible to continue caring for your loved one, you need to get professional help. Don’t waste your time feeling guilty. Focus instead on finding your loved one the best care. So how do you gauge when your loved one needs more care than can be provided by family or in the home? This can be especially difficult if your parent is an independent person, or if you do not live close by. This is why it is so important to keep tabs on them, even if it is from afar. The signs and symptoms can be subtle, especially in the early stages of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. To properly assess the situation, you’ll need to spend some time with your parent. Take note of their physical being. Have they gotten frailer? Are they not caring for themselves: not bathing, not eating, having trouble dressing? If
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you suspect something is wrong, it is not the time to be polite. Investigate the house. Is your normally fastidiously clean parent letting grime and clutter accumulate? Is someone who has spent his or her life preparing homemade meals living off microwaveable dinners? If they have a chronic medical condition, are they managing their medications? Are they not dealing with the business of daily life? Look for unsorted stacks of mail, overgrown lawns, and, if they have a pet, check to see how it is faring. Check into their finances. One of the first signs of mental decline can be reckless spending or being taken advantage of by scammers. Do they have trouble following a conversation? Are there tasks they used to do easily that they now have trouble completing? All of these things can be symptomatic of a larger problem. It can be hard to watch your par-
ents decline, and it’s never easy to admit your parent or parents may no longer be able to care for themselves. But it is in everyone’s best interest to be honest about it and deal with the situation. What if your parent or loved one is in relatively good health but his life is lacking in some way? Or is he a bit overwhelmed by it? Social interactions are an important part of life, and someone who has spent decades having children, family and friends in close contact can get lonely and depressed as children move away and friends die. Many senior-living centers aren’t the weigh station to death that they were back in the day. Some senior-living centers feel more like a cruise, with medical help in close proximity. Ask your mother if she is getting out and what her hobbies are. Staying shut in the house for days on end can lead to a host of mental health problems and heighten
current ones. If they are having trouble staying social, especially if they no longer drive or have access to public transportation, they could benefit from the social schedules many homes offer. How do you find the right home for your parent or loved one? Research, research, research. Get recommendations from friends and hospitals. With the proper permission, talk to your parent’s doctor. And don’t just take someone’s word for it. Visit the places you are considering. Often glossy photos in brochures don’t translate into real life. Ask for a schedule of activities and go back when these activities should be taking place to see how many residents participate. Above all, try to respect your parents’ or loved ones’ wishes. Asking for help can be difficult and embarrassing. Make sure whatever the outcome, they are well cared for.
THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, JUNE 26, 2015
SENIOR CITIZEN SALUTE ■ PAGE 11
Changing weather calls for emergency plan By SHARON NAYLOR Creators.com Recent weather events such as Superstorm Sandy on the East Coast, wildfires in the West, snowstorms, tornados and earthquakes have certainly created a reminder that Mother Nature can wreak some havoc. After major storms, your power may go out for days or weeks, food may be hard to find in supermarkets, and you may wonder how — when roads are impassable — you’ll be able to get your medications from the pharmacy. The Red Cross advises creating a very detailed emergency preparedness plan before those tornado sirens go off, when all is calm and quiet in your world, and when you can think clearly, planning for the worst but hoping for the best. Here are some steps to take, but consult with your local government’s official website to get information that’s specific to your area, e.g., the locations of shelters and warming stations. Bookmark that site now on your computer and smartphone so you can easily access it when the lights go out. ■■ Step 1: Know what can happen. But don’t make assumptions that certain weather disasters couldn’t happen in your area. A tornado can happen anywhere. As we’re seeing in weather reports, that creek a half-mile from your house can rise higher than you expect, causing flooding that not only fills roads but can affect power stations in your region. Dramatic weather, facility incidents and regional power outages caused by a car hitting a power pole miles away could cause emergencies. ■■ Step 2: Know how you’ll get your information. Again, look to your town’s website to find out about and sign up for emergency notification texts so you’ll be in the know in case your landline phone and power go out. You also need to be aware of outdoor warning sirens and understand what they mean. And tune a battery-operated radio to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather radio station to give you access to essential information about evacuations and recovery plans. Again, on your smartphone, bookmark your weather website for easy access to disaster information. ■■ Step 3: Create your emergency plan. If you have mobility issues and know you’ll need assistance during an emergency, identify three local people you can call upon and with
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A fully stocked emergency kit keeps you prepared in times of trouble. whom you’ve discussed your emergency plan. Provide a spare key to ideally two neighbors so they can check on you. Also, designate an out-of-town relative whom you will contact to let know you are OK. Then he or she can call your other kids and grandkids with an update. During storms, communications systems may be spotty. Next, familiarize yourself with the emergency exits in your building. Post emergency phone numbers by your phone and emergency emails by your computer. Make sure you have your identification and health insurance information is in your wallet or handbag. And one often-forgotten detail is to arrange for direct deposit of your checks into your bank account so your money is accessible. After emergencies, ATM machines often get tapped out of cash, so it’s a good idea to have emergency funds safely stored in your home. Select two accessible locations as a meeting place for you and the members of your household to cut down on chaos and stress after the disaster is over and recovery begins. It’s a good idea to have a tote bag packed with a few changes
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of clothing, clean socks and underwear, some of your unexpired medications and other essentials in case you will need to hurry off to a shelter or be evacuated. Stow this in a closet by your exit for a grab-and-go that can make you more comfortable during your stay in a safety zone. Know where to go in your home for any emergency. For a tornado warning, into the basement would be best, and for a windstorm, an interior room away from windows. Know how you’ll protect and care for your pets, as well as where your township will keep pets if you’re in a shelter. Check your insurance coverage now to be sure you understand what is covered and what is not in case of an emergency. You may
have — or be able to get — flood insurance, so ask your adult child to help you review the details of the best insurance coverage if you’re unclear about your plan. Help prevent disasters by changing the batteries on your fire and carbon monoxide detectors annually and having your furnace inspected and serviced on a regular basis. ■■ Step 4: Create emergency kits. The Red Cross suggests preparing separate emergency kits for your home, car and office, and it’s smart to create kits for each member of your household, including pets, so you can personalize health supplies and medications. Be sure to have enough emergency supplies in your kits for at least three
days’ use. Give yourself plenty of space for your emergency supplies. A wheeled suitcase is a great carrier that adds easy mobility. Include in your kit clothing, a battery-powered radio, a one-week supply of medicine, cash, nonperishable food, water, a flashlight, copies of your insurance and credit card information, cash, and your contact information as well as that of your loved ones. Also include cellphone chargers. ■■ Step 5: Practice Your Emergency Plan Emergencies are scary and stressful, and without practice, you may forget an essential. So while life is calm, review your plans and refresh your emergency kits to serve you best in the event of an actual emergency.
PAGE 12 ■ SENIOR CITIZEN SALUTE
THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, JUNE 26, 2015
Being positive can change life for better By CATHERINE DIGIACOMO Creators.com At 91 years old, Long Beach, Calif., resident Fred Dunn is a world traveler. Every year, he and his eldest daughter go on a trip to a new country, from China to the Czech Republic to Egypt. When they return, she makes him a photo book of memories, and then they begin to plan their next trip. “Here I am, 89 years old on a freakin’ camel,” he told me, pointing to a photo of him in Egypt, “and by the way, I don’t recommend camel rides to anyone!” When I asked for an interview with Dunn, I was told his response was, “Well, it wouldn’t be the first time, and it won’t be the last. Bring her over.” His positive personality was so robust that I couldn’t wait to speak with him. Still, I went into my interview with Dunn thinking that I would ask him my ambiguous question — “What is the secret to a happy life?” — that he would give me some sort of flowery response and that the interview then would end. That was before I met Fred Dunn. I was amazed at his vigor and sheer enthusiasm for life. He is still eager to learn, to explore and to discuss. He was excited to show me dozens of pictures of him in various countries all over the world, including a photo of him eating lunch with a local tribe in Panama. The more we chatted the more impressed I became. What is his secret? The 2011 Roko Belic documentary, “Happy,” looks at happiness and health through a psychological lens and discusses four key behaviors that lead to a healthy, happy life. These behaviors include physical activity, appreciation, a closeness and connectedness to your community and compassion and service for others. Applying this theory to Dunn, the reasons for his happiness became abundantly clear. He values family above everything else. “The best thing that ever happened to me is my wife,” he began. “One of my biggest accomplishments in life was marrying the most beautiful girl in Long Beach. And I am fortunate enough to have four children, who are all college graduates, and nine lovely grandchildren and one greatgrandchild, who all live relatively close and visit a lot.” Dunn also stays active in his community; he has served in the Long Beach City College electrical technology apprenticeship system for 64 years and has sat on a couple of city and federal committees, attending one or two meetings per week. “I’ve helped a lot of young people learn a trade that will last them a lifetime,” he said with a
tone not of pride but of genuine care. He also expressed his concern for the elderly who are taken advantage of and scammed by their own caretakers, being overcharged for services, etc., and explained the increased importance of his role on the city’s committee — especially at his age. To this day, Dunn stays physically active. He wakes up at 6:30 a.m. every morning to eat his breakfast and then rides his bicycle all over town. He was driving until two years ago, when he stopped driving by choice — he still has his driver’s license — after an accident. Since then, he’s had two cornea transplants to help his vision, each a five-month process because of various complications. Yet he sees himself as fortunate. “I’m fortunate enough to be able to see well again and see my family and see how beautiful you are sitting in front of me,” he said. And ... he’s a charmer. It’s not a stretch to say that Dunn’s positive outlook on life has kept him this happy and healthy, even in times of emotional struggle. According to a 2011 study conducted by Barbara Fredrickson, the Kenan distinguished professor of psychology and principal investigator of the Positive Emotions and Psychophysiology Laboratory at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, “positive emotions are vehicles for individual growth and social connection: By building people’s personal and social resources, positive emotions transform people for the better, giving them better lives in the future.” So what’s the secret to a long, happy, healthy life? Appreciate all the good things, however small; spend time with family; stay physically active; and get involved with your community through service and other outlets. People who do all of those things are likelier to see the glass half full, keep high spirits and generally live a better life. As I was getting ready to leave, Dunn excitedly told me about his plans to return to Costa Rica this April to ride the zip lines. “The last time I was there, they told me the oldest person who ever rode the cables was 90,” he said with a smirk. “So I said, ‘Hell, I’ll be 92 when I come back.’” How many 92-year-olds do you know who are healthy enough to ride zip lines through the jungles of Costa Rica? No, Dunn doesn’t intend to slow down. In fact, he just added a new member to his immediate family — a Labrador puppy, named Tucker. As we walked out to the sidewalk, he held Tucker in his arms, saying to me with a chuckle, “I’m going to walk this poodle down my street to meet some ladies. That’s how it’s done, you know.”
Fred Dunn and his puppy, Tucker, illustrate how being positive can change your life. CATHERINE DIGIACOMO CREATORS.COM
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