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Granite
December 2023 / January 2024
A Bi-Monthly Dedicated to Senior Issues and Living
MERRY MOMENTS
Every day is Saturday By Robert Levey
Having spent the majority of his professional career working for small companies in southeastern New Hampshire in electronic controls design, Wolfeboro resident Robert Sterndale spends a lot of his time now outdoors enjoying nature and other people. In the winter his recreation plans often entail skiing. “Gunstock is a 30- to 40-minute drive from here,” he said. “They have
an unbelievable pass for people over 70, so it is easy to go in the morning and spend a couple of hours on the slopes there. I can also usually find friends who are going over there at the same time to ski.” Recently, Robert has also become involved with the Cotton Valley Trail Committee, which maintains a 12-mile-long walking/biking trail that begins in Wolfeboro and ends in Wakefield. CONTINUED ON PG 6
Beat the holiday blues By Curt Mackail
Maryrae showing her hand painted ornaments. Courtesy photo.
Christmas year-round By Betty Gagne
Maryrae Preston, in her own words, is “Christmas crazy.” Not only does she admit it, she’s very proud of it. The holiday is embedded in her soul, her essence and everywhere in her home. When most people are pulling down outdoor lights, vacuuming pine needles out of the carpet and putting away boxes of holiday items, Maryrae is still in full Christmas mode. She’s even found a way to keep Santa at the beach, but we’ll talk about that later.
Maryrae’s earliest memory of Christmas is from when she was probably 4 or 5 years old. “I grew up on Winnacunnet Road in Hampton, and the house had a front and a back stairway,” she said. “Mom and Dad would pile the gifts against the door so we’d have to go all the way around and through their bedroom to get to them.” Mom and Dad are none other than New Hampshire Sen. Robert Preston and his wife, Charlotte, and Maryrae is the baby of the family. CONTINUED ON PG 4
Lots of emotions are tied into the holidays. And they may run the gamut from feeling jolly to despondency. This is especially true for us seniors, as our stockpiled memories can stir up a sentimental stew of mixed feelings. Leading health care institutions like the University of California medical center and its UCI Health hospital warn of holiday and post-holiday depression in seniors. “We do see an increase in depression during this time for various reasons,” says geriatrician Dr. Manisha Perera, a clinician at UCI Health’s SeniorHealth Center. “Added to the stresses of daily life, the holidays create pressure on our time, finances and expectations of what the holidays should be.” Feeling blue is very common, the experts say, for a variety of reasons. Isolation, loss of loved ones, families who remain distant, per-
sonal health concerns or illness and modern norms for celebrating the holidays may contribute to emotional letdowns — sometimes minor, sometimes major. It’s not unusual for seniors to start to feel like there’s nothing exciting or special for us to enjoy anymore. Traditions we hold dear are one of the things that make holidays special. But as we see traditions fade with age, our happiness may fade too. About a quarter of all seniors will experience significant depression during the holiday season, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. And, according to the information research firm Statista, based on last year’s polling data, about a third of Americans say they feel under pressure to have a good time during the holidays. More than 70 percent said the true meaning of Christmas has been lost and there is far too much emphasis on spending money. CONTINUED ON PG 7
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GRANITE SENIOR JOURNAL | DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | PAGE 2
1 Christmas year-round Every day is Saturday Beat the holiday blues 8 Hintonia latiflora 10 Hearing aids shown to reduce risk of cognitive decline 11 Six tips to make downsizing a breeze 12 Wheels of freedom 14 Replacing knees in Ghana 15 Making a difference 16 Holiday traditions from Europe to New Hampshire 17 Plan well to live well 18 Tips to stay hydrated and avoid dehydration 20 Senior in the spotlight 21 Volunteer Opportunities
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE
ADVERTISER LIST 2 Chez Vachon Friends Program 3 Visitng Nurse Association of Manchester & Sourthern New Hampshire Community Hospice House 5 Pembroke Pines 9 Granite State Naturals 10 Dr. Woods Hearing Center 11 The Gove Group 12 Freedom Home Sales 13 Rehabilitation Equipment Associates, Inc. Palmer Gas 14 NH Orthopedic Center 15 YMCA of Greater Nashua 16 Viking House 17 Silverstone Living 18 Northeast Rehabilitation Hospital Network 19 Colonial Poplin Longbridge 21 Banker’s Life 23 American Auto Transporters 24 Currier Museum of Art
Celebrating the opening of our new state-of-the-art patient wing. A warm, comforting and supportive community resource, the Community Hospice House will now offer six new patient suites to serve over 200 additional families each year, in comfort and dignity, at a time in their lives when they need it the most. Community Hospice House: 210 Naticook Road, Merrimack, NH www.hhhc.org 141415
GRANITE SENIOR JOURNAL | DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | PAGE 3
Inside Maryrae’s home. Courtesy photo.
CHRISTMAS FROM PG 1
“I have fond memories of Christmases with my folks, but it was really my great-aunt Mary who made it super special for us kids,” she said. “She always did festive and fun stuff. One year she took empty maple syrup bottles, rolled them in sparkly glitter and filled them with candy. Just little things that children love.” It was tradition for the Prestons to wake up at 6 a.m. Christmas morning, have breakfast, open gifts and be ready to attend the 8 a.m. mass at Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal in Hampton. “Dad always cooked a traditional turkey dinner on Christmas Day, and Mom cooked too, but she was more of a baker,” she said. Maryrae recalls her Mom’s delicious Toll House cookies with a smile. Thinking of her Mom triggered another memory, and it wasn’t exactly a happy thought. “One year my Mom bought a plastic artificial tree,” Maryrae remembers. “I was mortified. An artificial tree was bad enough, but plastic?” She’s nearly shuddering recalling the memory, adding that the infamous tree didn’t last long in the Preston household. Another devastating memory for Maryrae was the time she was sleeping over at a friend’s house and her host informed her that Santa wasn’t real.
Maryrae is the little one holding a wrapped gift. She thinks it was a Candyland game. Courtesy photo.
“I was so upset I ran home and told my dad what she said,” she said. “‘Is it true?’ I asked him. ‘Is Santa fake?’ My dad patiently explained it to me by saying, ‘Maryrae, if you believe in your heart, then nobody can change that for you.’ It made me feel somewhat better, I guess, but what a shock!” These days Christmas has taken over her home, inside and out. It begins with the hanging of white lights on a number of red maple trees outside her house. “We planted the trees ourselves and it didn’t take long for them to grow. At this point they’re starting to block the sun from hitting the deck,” she said. She also made certain requests during the construction of their home. “When the house was being built, I told the contractors I wanted two extra closets and at least a 10-foot ceiling in the living room,” she said. “They asked me why. Those are my Christmas closets, I told them, and I need the tall ceiling for my 9-foot Christmas tree.” She laughs. “They probably wondered about a woman who needed two extra closets just for Christmas decorations,” she said. Not everything goes into the closets during the off season. Maryrae keeps an entire section in her home she calls the “Blue Room.” It’s decorat-
GRANITE SENIOR JOURNAL | DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | PAGE 4
ed with Santa statues, gnomes, angels and knick-knacks trimmed in shades of light blue. The colors remind you of robin egg skies at the beach. One sign reminds you to “Have Yourself a Very Beachy Christmas.” She also has
son. The vertical beam is wrapped with lighted greens and strings of glittering gold beads and trimmed with more than 500 ornaments. Does Maryrae have a favorite Christmas movie? One would think
They probably wondered about a woman who needed two extra closets just for Christmas decorations. — Maryrae Preston a resin Santa who stays in the living room year-round, a constant reminder of her very favorite time of year. Her main tree is decorated with all the ornaments her children made through the years, and many are made of paper. These keepsakes are stored in a safe during the off season, and Maryrae treasures them. “Those are more valuable to me than all the glass ornaments,” she assures us. As if a 9-foot tree isn’t enough to satisfy this Christmas extremist, Maryrae also decorates a 7-foot-tall beam in her home every holiday sea-
it might be It’s a Wonderful Life, or maybe Miracle on 34th Street, right? Not really. “Some of those classics are downright depressing,” she says. “A man contemplating jumping off a bridge isn’t a happy thing.” Mention the Hallmark Channel, though, and her eyes light up like Christmas fireworks. “There’s like 50 new movies this year,” she says excitedly, adding, “I watch Christmas movies all year.” The ringtone on her phone during the holiday season is “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas.”
When celebrating the holiday with her family, Maryrae likes to make it exciting and fun for all. “One year we booked a cruise for a family gift,” she tells us. “My husband, Kevin, and I wrote the word ‘cruise’ on the walls in special ink that could only be seen with a black light. The kids walked around the house with black lights and found their gifts,” she laughs. The family shares their own yearly holiday traditions, one of them being attending the annual lighting of the lobster trap tree at the Yankee Co-op in Seabrook, now in its fifth year. “When the kids were small we’d make chains out of candy button paper, so they were allowed to eat the candy buttons before Christmas,” she said. Nowadays she looks for ways to prolong the thrills of opening presents. One of them is to wrap a number of gifts in cellophane, layer by layer. “You start with a bill, wrap it in a layer or two of cellophane, add a
lottery ticket or a gift card, wrapping the plastic around and around. It takes forever to open it,” she says with a wicked grin. “I admit I have a wrapping fetish.” She chuckles. “Each gift is wrapped in different color paper,” she continued, “and topped with an elaborate bow. And no scissors allowed!” Even the family dog Sir Jaegermeister gets gift-wrapped packages that he opens himself. “Last year he ripped open a stuffed Minnie Mouse, one little bite at a time,” Maryrae says proudly. It’s the truth, folks — I saw the video. Because her birthday is 12 days before the big day, she and Kevin like to escape to the White Mountains for a mini-vacation every season. “This year we’re staying at the Snowflake Inn in Jackson,” she says with a twinkle in her eye. It’s another tradition that stays strong. Nine years ago Maryrae decided to turn her obsession into a business.
Sir Jäegermeister. Courtesy photo.
“My family owned a building with an empty storefront and I chose to open a store that combined my two favorite themes, Christmas and the beach,” she said. That was the beginning of Sand and Santa. The store, on the south end of Ocean Boulevard, can be found easily by looking for the huge fiberglass Santa figure outside. “The Santa, I’m told, is one of six in the country,” Maryrae tells us. Her brother Bobby surprised her
by purchasing the Santa from a local business, and he’s painted to look like a beach Santa. “He’s very popular,” she laughs. “Everyone wants their picture taken with Santa.” The inside of the place looks like the Smithsonian of Christmas and the beach, and it could take hours to see what’s in there. She strives to keep her inventory unique for her shop by going a distance to find merchandise that can’t be found elsewhere on the beach. She recently returned from Nashville, where she was able to go on a purchasing spree while enjoying some leisure time. Maryrae creates her own ornaments by hand-painting oyster shells in different characters, which you can find at her store. Maryrae has decided that Christmas is a strong part of her existence, and she explains why: “People are happier during the holidays,” she said. “Everyone is nicer. I feel the spirit of Christmas should be year-round, 24/7. It is for me.”
Spec
GRANITE SENIOR JOURNAL | DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | PAGE 5
Bob Sterndale with NH Boat Museum Executive Director Martha Cummings. Courtesy photo. Bob Sterndale. Courtesy photo.
SATURDAY FROM PG 1
“It is an old railroad line that has been turned into a recreational trail that runs from the middle of Wolfeboro through the woods,” he said. “If you would like to get away from it all for a little while, you can be out in nature. It is a pleasant way to get some exercise and recreate in the great outdoors.” This trail also goes by Albee Beach, the town beach in Wolfeboro that Bob described as “just beautiful.” “The trail is a great way to get to the town beach without driving,” he added. “You see young folks and old folks and everybody in between.” Albee Beach is also near the New Hampshire Boat Museum (NHBM), which is where he spends a lot of his time in the warmer months. He described his primary role with NHBM as “steward” of the Restoration Shop. “This involves important work like unlocking the door and making the coffee on work days,” he laughed. “The boat restoration shop is a social activity in disguise even though it sounds like a work detail.” At the shop, he said some of them have worked together for a while (many months for some and many years for others). “We tell jokes and anecdotes and have a cup of coffee and maybe a doughnut and enjoy each other’s company,” he added. “It is a real plus for people of retirement age.” Robert said he does do some work in the shop, however, as he noted that he tries to organize resources and keep
volunteers happy and productive. In addition, he supports the work of NHBM’s Facilities Committee, which takes care of the buildings, and Exhibits Committee, which is helping to plan and develop exhibits for the museum’s new facility in Moultonborough. He also recently completed a term as NHBM Trustee. “It created an opportunity to participate in making decisions about what the museum would become in the future and how it would capture the interest of the public,” he said. “I also enjoyed being with like-minded people who enjoyed doing the same thing.” His interest in NHBM reflects a lifelong enjoyment of boating and lakes. “I prefer fresh-water boating, because I don’t want to feel dirty after boating,” he said. “Having grown up with the experience of boating on the lakes, it is more meaningful to me personally. It is also more relaxing, as you don’t have the kinds of difficulties and dangers that you have boating on the ocean. On a lake, you have coastline all around you, too.” Regarding his experience in lakes as a kid, he said he spent a lot of his childhood in Bristol and Holderness, where he spent an appreciable amount of time in Newfound Lake and Squam Lake. “My folks bought a power boat when I was 12,” he said. “During my high school summers I had use of the family boat on Squam Lake. It was a nice experience, and it is too bad that not everybody can have that experience. I thought I was in heaven. Maybe I was.” Noting he was the youngest of “the tribe” in his family by quite a few years,
GRANITE SENIOR JOURNAL | DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | PAGE 6
Bob acknowledged he was the only one who really participated in boating. “Even my parents never got too excited about it, but I had a circle of friends who were at the lake in the summertime,” he said. Regarding his thoughts on Wolfeboro as a place to retire — he retired there in 2015 with his wife after 45 years in Madbury — Robert said there are “lots of things to like.” He said the most important and impactful aspect for them is the opportunity to socialize with other active retirees. “A lot of people who have spent some part of their earlier life here decided that they wanted to retire here,” he said. “It makes for an easy way to make friends and find people to play with and recreate with on a daily basis.” Robert acknowledged his wife is as busy as he is, noting she is also interested in boating, among other endeavors. “She has also become involved in a bunch of retiree volunteer activities here in town,” he said. “She does an annual event, The Festival of Trees at the Wright Museum, so she is busy with that. She helps The Garden Club sell wreaths, and they have already sold between 400 and 500 wreaths.” Other clubs in which she is involved include 68 Hours of Hunger and The Newcomers Club, the latter of which is a social club for mostly retirees since “they have time to participate in activities.” “They have focal point interest groups — and when they have a meeting, membership will be notified,” he said. “It is a very easy place to make friends. Newcomers are routinely amazed at how easy it is to make friends here.”
For Robert, Wolfeboro itself is “a very easy place to make friends.” “There are a lot of nonprofits and active retired people looking for things to do here,” he said. “In any community, there will be organizations with worthy causes to help you find a useful and entertaining way to spend your time. … You just have to find something to do to have a daily routine.” For Robert, a critical part of a meaningful retirement has been “to put [himself] out there.” “You will be glad you did,” he said. “You don’t need to be an expert in anything to find a place where you can contribute. You may find stimulating and rewarding things to do and a chance to work with great people.” He did acknowledge some challenges, however, to retirement, which he described as a blank slate that needs to be filled. “Finding activities that are enjoyable, rewarding, and compatible with my abilities, interests and availability can be difficult,” he said. “Retirement has brought the freedom to go where I want and do what I want within budgetary constraints.” There are some things, though, that Robert has decided he will not do in retirement, such as holding local public office. “While in Madbury, I served at different times on the school board, planning board and select board for a total of about 25 years,” he recounted. “I found problem-solving and decision-making in the public eye challenging and, at least sometimes, rewarding.” Upon retiring to Wolfeboro five years ago, he decided his dues were paid in full. “It was time to relax,” he said. “My wife was most supportive of that decision, too.” Regarding the future, Robert said he will continue to go out and “find something to do” on a daily basis. “If you follow health publications, they say it is important to stay engaged socially to stay healthy,” he said. “This way we stay productive and engaged socially and have a lot of fun while we’re doing it. … As a retired person, every day is Saturday.”
HOLIDAY BLUES FROM PG 1
But do not despair. I think there’s a do-it-yourself solution that can help lighten the emotional load and bring some extra smiles in the process. (But remember, if you feel anything other than mildly melancholy, see your physician. Major depression should be addressed by a professional health care provider.)
Try a lighthearted approach
My new tradition is to focus on Christmas alternatives. December is chock full of days and ways to celebrate the season that are novel and entertaining and can lighten your frame of mind. Get the month off to a good start by celebrating National Pie Day, National Women Support Women Day and Rosa Parks Day, all Dec. 1. Then, on Dec. 2, jolly up by celebrating National Mutt Day. A mutt, by the way, is simply a mixedbreed dog. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, about 3.3 million abandoned or mistreated dogs enter shelters every year. National Mutt Day is a perfect reason to buoy your spirits by visiting an animal shelter or exploring volunteer opportunities for an animal humane organization. (Most authorities say be cautious about bringing home a new pet during the holidays because this can add to stress for you and the animal. Best to wait until the holidays recede, they say.) More information at nationalmuttday.com. After mutt day, in daily succession, come Let’s Hug Day (Dec. 3) Make a Gift Day, National Cookie Day, Nation-
The national Answer the Phone like Buddy the Elf Day on Dec. 18 encourages everyone to mimic Buddy’s good cheer, generosity and childlike enthusiasm.
al Sock Day, Santa’s List Day, Wear Brown Shoes Day (all Dec. 4) and International Volunteer Day (Dec. 5). National Brownie Day, one of my faves, is celebrated on Dec. 8. Make a batch of fudgy delectables, stock up on ice cream and whipped cream, and invite friends over for a brownie party. (Or treat yourself with fresh-from-the-oven sweets. Just don’t eat the whole panload!)
More fun in mid-month
I’m planning an especially robust day of celebration on Dec. 14, when the convergence of National Bouillabaisse Day, National Energy Conservation Day, National Monkey Day, Roasted Chestnuts Day and Free Shipping Day occurs. National Monkey Day, initiated when a Michigan State University student held an impromptu party in the name of monkey conservation worldwide, slowly grew into today’s grander version. It’s a cause and a day that encourages learning about monkeys, apes and other primates and what we can do to assist their preservation. On National Monkey Day you might consider donating to wildlife conservation efforts near or far. The World Wildlife Fund, for example, fights destruction of rainforests that are essential habitat for many monkey species. The WWF also collaborates with local communities to conserve a wide variety of natural resources. Visit worldwildlife. org. I also highly recommend (with tongue firmly in cheek) that you observe Answer the Telephone Like Buddy the Elf Day on Dec. 18. Buddy, played by Will Ferrell in the 2003 film Elf, answered the phone saying, “Buddy the Elf. What’s your favorite color?” The National Day Calendar (nationaldaycalendar.com) says when you answer you simply insert your name where Buddy’s would be and add a joke or two. (What kind of music do elves like most? Answer: Wrap!) It’s the elfin spirit that counts most, though — characterized by Buddy’s irrepressible generous spirit. Elves spread joy everywhere, and a little more elf in your holidays might do the same for you.
The original Christmas card originated in England in 1843, according to Smithsonian Magazine. It took another several decades for Christmas cards to really catch on, developing into a regular tradition for many during Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and winter solstice celebrations.
Celebrate the winter solstice with ancient traditions
Dec. 21 is very big in my holiday book. It’s Don’t Make Your Bed Day, Look on the Bright Side Day, National Crossword Puzzle Day and World Snowboard Day. Most important, the 21st marks the winter solstice — the day with the fewest hours of daylight in the northern hemisphere. Celebration of the winter solstice is a pagan tradition going back to the fourth century, according to John Matthews, author of The Winter Solstice: The Sacred Traditions of Christmas. Originally called Yule, it’s one of the oldest winter holidays in history. Today we can still revel, as our ancient forebears did, in what they believed to be the rebirth of the sun. To bring the ancient tradition up to date you might focus on Yuletide as a time for personal energy renewal, inner rebirth and contemplation. A Yule log decorated with candles and berries on your mantel or dinner table can be a symbol of this attitude. Evergreen boughs, holly, ivy and mistletoe in the home also harken back to pagans. The greenery was believed by the ancients to harness a universal life force and provide protection against harm. To bring these traditions up to date you might try silent meditation, exchanging nature-themed gifts, holding candlelit ceremonies and spending time outdoors in natural settings to honor and enjoy nature.
Beating the holiday blues
Beyond observing the sometimes silly national days during December, pragmatic actions can help maintain your physical and mental health during the holidays. HCI Health geriatrician Dr. Manisha Perera suggests the following: • Make the best of the holidays but adjust your expectations and adopt realistic goals. If you can’t visit, reach out to family and friends through video chats, holiday cards, email and the phone. • Take a walk or just get outside for some fresh air, in addition to regular physical activity. • Consider a new activity or hobby, or teach someone else a craft you’re skilled at. Consider volunteering to help others who need help. • Limit screen time. A constant diet of bad news can create a high level of anxiety that you may not fully realize you’re experiencing. “These are examples of small changes you can make that, over time, will make a difference in your outlook and overall health,” says Perera. “Your holidays may look different today, but they can still be meaningful. Even if the holidays aren’t what you’d like them to be, you’re not alone. Hold your memories close but try to embrace new ways to celebrate and, most importantly, be kind to yourself,” she said.
GRANITE SENIOR JOURNAL | DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | PAGE 7
Hintonia latiflora By Terry Lemerond, Founder and president of Terry Naturally
If you’ve ever wondered why we’re seeing such an epidemic of diabetes and prediabetes, all you have to do is look at our diets. In a very short time, we have dramatically increased our consumption of sugar, high fructose corn syrup and refined carbohydrates like white flour and white rice.
The sugar and insulin connection
Insulin is a hormone produced in the pancreas. It picks up sugars in the bloodstream and carries them into the cells for energy. The more starch you eat, the more insulin your body needs to produce. High-sugar and high-carbohydrate diets put a huge burden on your insu-
and scorching dry spells has created a powerful defense mechanism within the plant itself. The beneficial features of Hintonia are made all the stronger by its ability to survive and thrive in a difficult environment. While Hintonia has been traditionally recommended for diabetes and gastrointestinal complaints, it has shown some exciting clinical results, as well.
Impressive clinical results lin production. There is simply too much sugar for insulin to process, and increasingly higher levels of sugar remain in the bloodstream. Plus, there’s another complication. Because high-sugar and refined carbohydrate foods cause inflammation, the body’s own natural inflammatory reaction can impair the ability of insulin to do its job, so cells become starved for energy. If cells start to ignore insulin (called “insulin resistance”), they do not respond to insulin’s signals to accept sugar into the cell for energy production. Starved too long, cells start to die. Ironic, isn’t it, that a disease we associate with overeating actually causes starvation at the cellular level? But high blood sugar and diabetes is not inevitable. Despite the statistics, you can stabilize and reverse your high blood sugar levels with diet, exercise and an amazing herbal extract. This remarkable botanical for blood sugar control has been clinically shown to treat mild and moderate type 2 diabetes. It is a traditionally used plant found in Mexico and Central America called Hintonia latiflora.
Hintonia latiflora — herbal rescue for high blood sugar
The dried bark of Hintonia latiflora has been traditionally used to support healthy blood sugar balance. It grows in the desert, where it has to withstand an intense climate. Toughing out monsoon-like rainy seasons GRANITE SENIOR JOURNAL | DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | PAGE 8
Hintonia latiflora has been clinically studied in Europe for over 70 years in type 2 diabetes. In clinical trials, patients with mild to moderate type 2 diabetes saw significant reductions in their daily blood sugar levels. Many of the people in the studies who were using insulin or oral medications to reduce their blood sugar levels were able to reduce the dosage of their prescriptions medications or insulin after adding Hintonia, and some were able to go off oral medications entirely. In long-term follow up, after three years of use Hintonia was still effective, and no serious side effects occurred. Hintonia latiflora combined with key nutrients for blood sugar control can: • Lower A1C levels by 10 percent • Improve fasting and postprandial blood sugar by 23 percent and 24 percent, respectively • Balance total cholesterol and reduce triglyceride levels • Prevent hypoglycemia—undesirable drops in blood sugar • Reduce medication use (39 percent of patients reduced medication — some didn’t need it at all!)
Why does hintonia work?
Plants and plant extracts are complex, and the reasons behind their benefits can be a challenge to unlock. However, scientists have been working diligently to discover the keys to Hintonia latiflora’s success. Hintonia bark contains compounds that help keep blood sugar levels stable.
Hintonia latiflora.
Clinical work with the ingredient has shown that it was so effective that individuals could reduce or entirely dispense with their insulin medication in type 2 diabetes. Hintonia is able to slow sugar metabolism, delaying the release of sugar in the bloodstream and keeping glucose levels down, rather than allowing them to spike as often seen in cases of type 2 diabetes. Aside from that, research on Hintonia shows that compounds from its leaves may help stop gastrointestinal damage and gastric ulcers. Considering the harsh effects of some drugs used for type 2 diabetes on the digestive system, this is yet another reason to consider adding Hintonia latiflora to a diabetes-fighting regimen. Diabetes is an epidemic, but you don’t have to become a statistic. By changing your food choices, getting sensible exercise, and adding the clinically studied power of Hintonia latiflora to your daily regimen, you can fight back against diabetes and look forward to a healthy future. Sign up for Terry’s free weekly newsletter or listen to the ratdio show at terrytalksnutrition.com. Hintonia latiflora and other Terry Naturally products are available at Granite State Naturals (170 N. State St., Concord). Call 224-9341. The staff is happy to help you navigate the options.
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Tinnitus and Covid-19 By Dr. Jessica Woods,
a resolution to the ringing in their ears since there are no medical cures for the disorder, meaning there is no medicaCan you imagine hearing a tion or surgery that has proven constant ringing in one or both to treat tinnitus. This does not ears? It might go to the backmean that patients cannot find ground for parts of the day and Dr. Jessica Woods. relief from their symptoms, as then when all is quiet it comes there are non-medical solutions that have roaring back. It might even interfere with a high success rate for tinnitus relief. Dr. your ability to sleep, concentrate or enjoy Woods is one of 46 tinnitus specialists in quiet activities. For more than 50 million the country who completed a postdoctoral Americans this condition, called tinni- study under the renowned neuroscientist tus, is a maddening daily struggle. At Dr. Dr. Pawel Jastreboff at Emory UniversiWoods Hearing Center we have noticed ty. She is uniquely positioned to offer a an uptick of tinnitus patients seemingly multi-pronged approach to tinnitus relief as a result of either Covid-19 infection or which currently has an 85 percent sucdue to the Covid vaccine. According to an cess rate with tinnitus patients. article published by the Cleveland ClinIf you notice that you are having trouic on May 24, 2021 in the International ble with tinnitus, hearing or balance, Journal of Audiology, scientists estimat- don’t ignore what is going on. The sooned that 7.6 percent of people infected er you reach out for help, the better. Dr. with Covid-19 experienced hearing loss, Woods says that sudden changes in your 14.8 percent suffered from tinnitus and hearing should be considered a medi7.2 percent reported vertigo. cal emergency and need to be addressed Many people have struggled to find immediately. In most cases, tinnitus is the Audiologist, Dr. Woods Hearing Center
result of damage to the inner ear. When the inner ear is not working properly and sending messages up to the brain as it should, the brain compensates and creates sound which is perceived as tinnitus. For patients, this can be ringing, buzzing, humming or even hearing music that is not present in the environment. In rare cases, tinnitus can occur as a rhythmic pulsing or whooshing sound, often in time with your heartbeat. This is called pulsatile tinnitus and can be an indication of a medical condition with the jugular vein or carotid artery and needs to be further evaluated. In many people, tinnitus is caused by one of the following: • Hearing loss. Decreased hearing causes the brain to compensate and create tinnitus. • Ear infection or ear canal blockage. Any time that the ear is blocked, it causes a decrease in hearing and can cause tinnitus. • Head or neck injuries. Head or neck trauma (concussion, whiplash, etc.) can
affect the auditory nerve (hearing nerve), causing tinnitus. • Medications. A number of medications are ototoxic (toxic to the inner ear) which can cause hearing loss, tinnitus and balance disturbances. • Other causes of tinnitus, such as Meniere’s disease, allergies that cause eustachian tube dysfunction, temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ), head and neck tumors, blood vessel disorders, diabetes, high blood pressure, anemia, migraine and arthritis have all been associated with tinnitus. Tinnitus is not something that you just have to live with. If you are experiencing aggravation, annoyance, anxiety or depression as a result of your tinnitus, it is important to reach out to us to make sure you explore the potential cause and treatment available so that it can be managed. There is help and there is hope. Please reach out to our office at 8897434 to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you make life sound better.
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Six tips to make downsizing a breeze By Melanie Fonville
Downsizing can be a challenging process, filled with ups and downs and mixed emotions. Here are six tips to help you navigate the downsizing process more effectively.
Start early and plan ahead
Begin the downsizing process well in advance of your move. Starting early allows you to tackle the task in manageable chunks, reducing stress and decision fatigue. Create a realistic timeline and break the process into smaller, achievable goals. Planning ahead also gives you the opportunity to sell or donate items, ensuring they find new homes instead of being hastily discarded.
Prioritize and declutter
Assess your possessions and prioritize what you truly need and love. Consider the functionality, sentimental value and frequency of use for each item. Create categories such as essential, sentimental and non-essential. Focus on keeping items that serve a purpose or bring you joy. Donate, sell or dispose of items that no longer fit into your downsized lifestyle. This step not only reduces the physical load but can also be emotionally freeing.
Maximize storage solutions
When downsizing, efficient storage is crucial. Invest in space-saving furniture, such as beds with built-in storage or multi-functional pieces like ottomans that double as storage containers. Use vertical space by installing shelves or cabinets to make the most of the available square footage. Consider utilizing under-bed storage containers and closet organizers to maximize every inch of space. This strategic approach helps you keep what you need without sacrificing organization.
EVERGREEN
Digitize and go paperless
In today’s digital age, many documents and memories can be stored electronically. Scan important documents, photographs and other paper-based items to create digital copies. This not only saves physical space but also ensures that your important records are easily accessible and backed up. Additionally, consider using e-books and digital subscriptions to reduce the number of physical books and magazines you need to store.
Embrace a minimalist mindset
Adopting a minimalist mindset can be transformative during the downsizing process. Focus on quality over quantity, and choose items that serve multiple purposes. When acquiring new items, consider whether they truly add value to your life. Let go of the notion that more possessions equate to greater happiness. Embracing minimalism can lead to a clutter-free, simplified living environment that is easier to maintain.
Work with a REALTOR® that understands
Downsizing is a gradual process, and it’s OK to take your time to make thoughtful decisions about your belongings. Celebrate the positive aspects of simplifying your life and creating a living space that aligns with your current needs and priorities. Working with a REALTOR® that understands the joys and challenges, as you work to find your next home will make the process that much easier. They will be able to help guide you, and potentially connect you with organizers, cleaners and other professionals you may need along the way.
®
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Wheels of freedom
The fascinating history of mobile homes in New Hampshire In the quaint and picturesque state of New Hampshire, the history of mobile homes tells a tale of innovation, economic growth and the pursuit of the American dream. As we embark on this journey through time, you’ll discover intriguing stories and fascinating tidbits about the mobile home industry in the Granite State. The birth of mobile homes Mobile homes, often referred to as “trailers,” have come a long way since their humble beginnings. The concept of mobile housing emerged in the early 20th century when people sought more flexibility in their living arrangements. In 1926, the first mobile home manufacturing company, New Hampshire-based Covered Wagon, opened its doors. These early mobile homes were built on solid steel frames and had wood-
en exteriors, which were a far cry from the sleek and modern designs we see today. Rolling through the Great Depression During the Great Depression, mobile homes provided an affordable housing option for many New Hampshire residents who were struggling to make ends meet. These mobile abodes, often referred to as “house trailers,” were a beacon of hope for families who wanted to maintain their independence despite economic hardships. Some families even planted small gardens around their mobile homes to supplement their food supply. War effort and post-war prosperity Mobile homes played a crucial role during World War II, as they were used to house workers
1952 Mobile Home Park. Courtesy of Anoka County Historical Society.
at defense plants and military bases. After the war, New Hampshire experienced a housing boom, and mobile homes were in high demand. To meet this growing demand, the state’s mobile home industry flourished, with dozens of manufacturers producing homes that were stylish, spacious, and equipped with modern amenities.
The White Mountains connection New Hampshire’s stunning White Mountains have long been a draw for tourists and nature enthusiasts. It may come as a surprise that mobile homes played a role in this attraction. During the mid-20th century, mobile home parks nestled in the picturesque landscapes of the White Mountains allowed visitors
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to experience the beauty of the area while enjoying the comforts of home. The tornado-proof mobile home New Hampshire is no stranger to extreme weather, including tornadoes. In 1953, engineer Charles Platt and businessman Karl Van Tassel collaborated to create the “tornado-proof” mobile home. These homes were designed with reinforced steel frames and anchored securely to the ground, offering a safer living option for residents in regions prone to severe weather. The modern mobile home Today, mobile homes in New Hampshire have evolved into stylish and energy-efficient dwellings that offer comfort and convenience. Many are equipped with modern amenities such as central air conditioning, walk-in closets and fully equipped kitchens. These mobile homes have become an attractive option for retirees looking to downsize while maintaining an active lifestyle.
A nod to mobile home parks New Hampshire boasts numerous mobile home parks, where residents can enjoy a sense of community, shared amenities, and affordable living. Some of these parks have even become tight-knit neighborhoods where lifelong friendships are formed, and residents take pride in their well-kept homes. As we look back on the history of mobile homes in New Hampshire, we see a rich tapestry of innovation and resilience. From their modest beginnings to the modern and stylish dwellings of today, mobile homes have provided a comfortable and affordable housing option for countless residents. They have played a pivotal role in the economic growth and development of the state while offering a sense of freedom and independence to those who call them home. In this beautiful corner of New England, mobile homes continue to be a symbol of hope, opportunity, and the pursuit of the American dream. So, the next time you pass by a mobile home park in the Granite State, remember the fascinating history behind these homes on wheels and the countless stories of those who have called them home.
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Replacing knees in Guyana By Kathleen A. Hogan, MD
Imagine having a knee that is crooked and doesn’t straighten completely. And you live in a country where the public hospital is a three-hour bus trip away and the surgeons only do two knee replacements a month. And once you are on the list, it may be years before you are able to have your knee replaced, if you can afford the cost of the implants. I am just finishing a medical humanitarian trip with WOGO Women’s Operation Global Outreach – in Georgetown, Guyana. Guyana is a small country on the eastern coast of South America, bordering Venezuela, Brazil and Suriname. Although the discovery of oil on its coast has raised the GDP, the country remains impoverished. The public health system is committed to improving health care delivery in the country. However, they do not have the resources that Americans take for granted. Hip
and knee replacements are performed only occasionally, despite the need for these procedures, due to the cost of the implants and the lack of surgeon experience. Our team is comprised of nine female fellowship trained joint surgeons. We also bring a team of nurses, anesthesiologist, surgery techs and assistants. We bring all the implants and supplies we need to do the surgeries. The first day is unpacking the 17 pallets of supplies we bring with us, and organizing the “warehouse” that we create in an empty space. And then the real work begins. Day one, our team saw almost 80 patients in-clinic, just in the morning. We reviewed charts, examined patients and decided who would need surgery. That first afternoon, the first five knee replacements were completed. Over the next three days, our amazing team performed 62 knee replacements for 50 patients. Most of these patients had extremely bad defor-
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mities – they couldn’t fully straighten or bend their knees, and they were extremely crooked. Most could barely walk. Many traveled several hours by bus from their homes on the edge of the Amazon. Our therapists got the patients up and walking the day of surgery and many were able to go home the next day. These are patients who otherwise would probably never have been able to get their joints replaced. They were so incredibly grateful and thankful. The physicians in Guyana are committed to taking care of these patients after their surgeries. They have physical therapists who worked with patients in the hospital and will continue to follow these patients for their therapy afterward, either in person or via video conference. The hospital has orthopaedic residents who worked with us in the OR as well as surgeons who are trying to build a total joint program. We spent time teaching the residents and local surgeons. We also
gave free shoes to our patients and the pediatric patients in the hospital. It was an exhausting but amazing trip. I am so happy to be able to have helped to bring the gift of mobility to so many wonderful people in Guyana. If you would like to see some of the photos of our amazing journey, find us on social media at @womenofwogo. Kathleen A. Hogan, MD is a Total Joint Specialist at New Hampshire Orthopedic Center. For additional information on orthopedic care, go to nhoc.com or call 883-0091.
Making a difference
How a member-led initiative supports our community partners By Lynne Boyer, Executive Director of Community Impact, YMCA of Greater Nashua
Togetherhood, the Y’s member-led volunteer service program, activates Y members to work together to plan and lead service projects that respond to local community needs. Created just over 10 years ago by Y USA, this signature program offers members a unique opportunity to give back to their community. Togetherhood is unique in that it is member led, with a Y staff advisor, and all projects must benefit outside organizations and not the Y association. It is a great way to not only strengthen our partnership relationships but show other organizations we value them and their contribution to our community by lending our support. When Togetherhood first implemented our association was happy to embrace the initiative and create our own team, which was led by Y members. The successful group completed four to five projects per year such as the beautification of the grounds at the Merrimack library, facility improvements for the Nashua Soup Kitchen, diaper drives for Share and many more. The projects were able to bring families, generations and neighbors together for a common goal as well as allow new friendships to form. Togetherhood was a sturdy foundation of our volunteerism efforts until 2020 when the Covid pandemic hit and we had to cease efforts due to health concerns. We’re excited to share that along with some new leadership and a desire from members we have restarted Togetherhood at our association. Volunteer Coordinator Leila Saremi is excited to take on this project as the staff liaison, along with Togetherhood Chair, and longtime Y member, Colleen Derderian. Colleen shared that she has been a member for over 40 years, first coming to the Y to enroll her children on our Swim Team. It was there that she
Togetherhood Mine Fall Cleanup. Courtesy photo.
met Greg, the Swim Team Coach at the time, who convinced her to help coach and the two ended up hitting it off only to get married several years later. Colleen and Greg have continued to remain active at the Y in programs for their kids and themselves, however Colleen said she didn’t get involved as a volunteer until about 8 years ago when she retired from her career as a Preschool Special Education Teacher in the Nashua School District. Colleen has previously volunteered for the Y with events such as the Kids Tri and Adult Tri and a few months ago Leila approached her after looking into reinstating Togetherhood at our association to see if Colleen would be interested in helping to lead the charge. With Leila’s assistance, Colleen was able to secure their first volunteer project which was at the Nashua Senior Center’s Spaghetti City, where she and a few others served meals, scooped ice cream and helped with the overall clean up. Since then Colleen has organized a few more projects for the group such as volunteering at the Sullivan Farm Apple Fest, a clean-up within Mine Falls in partnership with the City of Nashua, and a couple more events at the Senior Center. Colleen expressed that the group has a goal to complete four to five projects per year and is looking forward to expanding our efforts and partnering with even more organizations. Colleen shared
that the Y has been a large part of her and her family’s lives and that volunteering at this time just feels right. “The Y inspires this work”, she reflected. “Throughout your life you have people that help you, you may or may not know them, but they gave their time to help me. I have the time now to give back to the community. I
believe in paying it forward.” We’re so grateful for all of Colleen’s hard work as well as the efforts of the members of Togetherhood. It’s because of their work and dedication that helps to build strong communities. We look forward to what the future brings for the Togetherhood initiative.
IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO FEEL GREAT!
DISCOVER A WORLD OF HEALTH & WELLNESS! Join our vibrant community of older adults and enjoy group exercise classes, walking clubs, and nutrition classes. Improve your mobility, build relationships, and boost self-confidence with us. YMCA of Greater Nashua | www.nmymca.org 141049
For More Info Visit www.nmymca.org/joinus or Call 603.882.2011 GRANITE SENIOR JOURNAL | DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | PAGE 15
Holiday traditions from Europe to New Hampshire Holiday Treats,Stylish Touches &Gifts That Start Holiday Traditions
Christmas stollen. Courtesy photo.
Written by the Viking House staff
• Artisan Crafted Incense Smokers • Nutcrackers • Pyramid Candle holderswhen lit the blades rotate! Festive crackers include high quality surprises!
Unique Selection of Sweets & Savories!
mpler Box n To ur a C S r m e o t a s u t C e a a and Ta ke Yo u r Tastebuds on a Europe Europe is closer than you think! A delightful selection of European imports, foods & fine gifts. Unique gifts for everyone and every budget! 19 N Main St, Concord, NH 603-228-1198 | vikinghouse.com GRANITE SENIOR JOURNAL | DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | PAGE 16
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If you’ve ever crossed the Atlantic in late fall, you know that Europeans are cuckoo for Christmas. Holiday markets are a seasonal staple in many European countries, and an array of cultural customs have become a part of our celebrations on this side of the pond, too. At Viking House, we toast these traditions and the items and foodstuffs that bring them to life, and we do our best to help you incorporate them into your own festivities. In addition to handcrafted wooden nutcrackers, pyramids and smokers for decorating your home, here are a few of our favorite seasonal traditions. Advent calendars are a German invention dating to the 1800s, when they were used to mark the holy days of Advent. With the secularization of Christmas, Advent calendars (and Nordic “Julkalenders”) have become a tradition for families the world over, counting down the days from Dec. 1 to Christmas Day. You can find Advent calendars in nearly any format, from a cute cardboard card with pictures hidden behind each die-cut door, to a box with a bite of chocolate or caramel for each of 25 days, to a handmade Advent calendar with tiny wooden compartments. Place treats and trinkets behind each door to fill this future family heirloom. Brits come to Viking House looking for Christmas crackers, dreamed up by a Londoner in 1847 and now used across the U.K. and elsewhere as a festive way to cap off holiday
dinner. Crackers look like giant holiday-wrapped hard candies. They make a snapping sound when opened, releasing a small prize, a joke and a tissue crown. Sounds silly, right? It is, in the best way – even the most harried party host and uptight uncle can’t help laughing, snapping crackers, sharing jokes and wearing funny tissue crowns around the table. Here’s another one: the Christmas pickle. This bit of relatively modern German-American folklore involves hiding a pickle-shaped ornament deep in the branches of the Christmas tree. The first person to find the pickle on the morning of the 25th receives a special gift or good fortune for the year to come. Pickle ornaments, with the delightful German name weihnachtsgurk, are often made of blown glass and come in many sizes to make pickle-finding more or less challenging. There are as many holiday food traditions as there are families – millions of tables feature stollen bread, Christmas puddings, herring, Swedish meatballs and more. One tasty tradition that anyone can enjoy is pepparkakor, a thin, spicy ginger cookie from Sweden. Place a pepparkakor in the palm of your hand, make a wish and tap it with a finger from your other hand. If the pepparkakor breaks into three pieces, some Swedes say, your wish will come true. And if it doesn’t, you still get a delicious cookie – win-win. Looking to start or continue your own holiday tradition? We’ll see you at Viking House in downtown Concord. Cheers. Skål. Salut. Prost.
Plan well, live well We spend our lives planning for our education, buying a home, raising a family, growing our careers and funding our retirement. However, we often forget to plan for the care and assistance we may need during our golden years. It is important to know your options and secure your future with a life plan designed to fit your lifestyle.
What is Continuing Care at Home?
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs), sometimes referred to as Life Plan Communities, are becoming a popular retirement choice as people plan for their longterm care needs. These Life Plan Communities offer independent living options focusing on active healthy living with the security of onsite healthcare services should they be needed in the future. This means you will receive the care you need if and when your health changes. However, what if you had the option to receive
this same concept of care without having to move from the home you love? Meet Continuing Care at Home. These programs offer a Continuing Care Life Plan without having to move. Enjoy the security of knowing you will receive services in your home when you need them, without the struggle of finding reputable and dependable care on your own. With the growing expense of healthcare, you will have the assurance of predictable costs for your future long-term care needs and guidance navigating the complex healthcare system. Although the concept of Continuing Care at Home is not new to the U.S., there is only one program like this offered in New Hampshire. Welcome to At Home by Hunt.
How does At Home by Hunt work?
At Home By Hunt is a membership program affiliated with Silverstone Living, a non-profit organization
“Plan Well to Live Well”
I am healthy, active, and love living in my current homeactive, and I am healthy, More than 70% ofcommunity. people over I am healthy, active, I want to and love living in my love living in and my home for in my current home and the age of 62 will stay need longhome and as longcurrent as I can, andto I want community. I want to term care servicesIcommunity. orinsupport, don’t want to befor a stay my home stay in my home for my wife or asthe longasto as I can, but only 33% overburden age ofand 50and long as I can, I don’tIwant be to a be a children. don’tto want have started planning for burdenburden to mythat wife to myor wife or children. Two years ago I children. care. enrolled in the At Two years ago I ago I TwoHunt years Home By enrolled in the Atthe enrolled in program and feel it At Healthcare services are Home By me, Hunt Home By fit Hunt is a great for program and program and feel it feel it expensive, and costs will only both for the present is a fit great for me, is a great for fit me, and forboth the future the present continue to rise. when both for thefor present and iffor I can the future and forand the future no longer stay at when when and if and I canif I can home. no Thelonger program no longer stay atstay at At Home By Huntiswill protect a great home. The program home. Thevalue program is a great value financially, and the the financial assets is ayou’ve great value financially, and the staff are marvelous financially, and the worked so hard for, giving staff are you marvelous –staff very friendly and are marvelous – very friendly and helpful. – very friendly and peace of mind, and the security helpful. helpful. you deserve. I am pleased with my I am pleased with my choice to join!to I am pleased with my choice join! choice to join! ~John, ~John, ~John, Member since 2020 Member since 2020 Member since 2020
with two Life Plan Communities in Nashua (Hunt Community and The Huntington at Nashua). As a Member of At Home by Hunt, you can participate in the social and wellness groups offered at both of our communities, as well as care coordination and preventative care you may need within your own home. A one-time membership fee, and predictable monthly service fees, protect your assets for when you require more support and assistance. You will never be alone in your journey; a Life Plan Coordinator is with you every step of the way.
Peace of mind with a personal touch
A Life Plan Coordinator is a health professional and advocate who will develop a trusting rapport with you now and support your choices as you age. Finding the right services and care can be challenging, often adding stress for you and your family, while you are coping with a change in
I am healthy, active, and love living in my current home and community. I want to stay in my home for as long as I can, and I don’t want to be a burden to my wife or children.
health condition. You and your family will have peace of mind knowing that you are part of a program that is invested in your overall safety, health and well-being. To learn more about At Home by Hunt, visit silverstoneliving.org or call 821-1200.
795 Washington Rd. Rye, NH
10 Allds Street Nashua, NH
Secure your future Secure your future with a Life Plan Secure your future A Life Plan option without having to move 10 Allds Street 795 Washington Rd. with a Life Plan designedLife for Plan you! Nashua, NH Rye, NH 795795 Washington AlldsStreet Street WashingtonRd.Rd. 1010Allds protection with designed forpredictable you! costs Nashua, Rye, NHNH for you! Nashua,NH NH Financial Rye,
Two years ago I enrolled in the At Home By Hunt program and feel it is a great fit for me, both for the present and for the future when and if I can no longer stay at home. The program A Life option withouthaving havingtotomove move A Life PlanPlan option without is a great value financially, and the staff are marvelous Financial protectionwith withpredictable predictablecosts costs protection – very friendly Financial and for future care helpful. for future care
A Life Plan option without having to move Financial protection with predictable costs for future care Security if your health changes
I am pleased with my Security if your healthchanges changes choice to join! Security if your health ~John, Member since 2020
CareCare coordination andand management coordination management Care coordination and management
for future care
Security if your health changes Carewww.silverstoneliving.org coordination and management
www.silverstoneliving.org www.silverstoneliving.org 603-821-1200 603-821-1200 603-821-1200 Lifetime coverage
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GRANITE SENIOR JOURNAL | DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | PAGE 17
Tips to stay hydrated and avoid dehydration By Wendy Jeffco, Registered Dietitian, Northeast Rehabilitation Hospital Staying hydrated in the cooler seasons is just as important for your health as it is in the summer. Up to 60 percent of the body is water. Fluids play an important role in maintaining body temperature, carrying nutrients through the body, increasing mental awareness and lubricating joints and cushions. Individuals who have medical and functional challenges, as well as the elderly population, often do not consume enough fluid, which can lead to dehydration. This may occur because they are not feeling well, have a decreased thirst sensation or perhaps are not able to consume liquids as easily. Dehydration can cause increased fatigue, decreased blood pressure, decreased concentration, headaches, or muscle aches. It can also put you at risk for urinary tract infections, consti-
pation, dizziness and falls. Stay hydrated and avoid dehydration with this helpful Q&A that offers tips for getting enough fluids: How much water should I drink? We often hear the recommendation for eight 8-ounce glasses a day, but needs vary from person to person depending on weight, activity, and medical history. You can consult with your doctor for more information. What liquids or foods will help with hydration? Some fluids, such as juice and soda, contain a lot of empty calories from sugar. Others, such as soda, coffee and tea, contain caffeine that can act as a mild diuretic. Water is one of the best choices, but if you don’t care for water try these tips: • Add an ice cube of juice for flavor, or fresh fruit, cucumber, ginger, mint, etc.
• Consider soda water. • Include fluid-rich foods in your meals and snacks. Watermelon, strawberries, cantaloupe, peaches, oranges, cucumbers, celery, tomatoes and peppers are all great options. These fruits and vegetables each provide about 1/2 cup of fluid for each cup consumed. Plus, they are rich in fiber and antioxidants.
• Foods such as ice cream, milkshakes, popsicles and soups also count as fluid. What habits can help increase hydration? • Keep fluids within reach. • Set a timer to drink. • Keep a fluid log or journal (use an app or notebook).
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Rebuilding lives with hope, compassion, and dedication to excellence. GRANITE SENIOR JOURNAL | DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 | PAGE 18
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• Measure the volume of the cups you are using to determine how much you may already be drinking. • Consider adding 4 ounces of fluid when taking your medications.
Sometimes, you may feel dizzy, especially when going from sitting to standing. If you are urinating less or your urine is dark, you may be dehydrated. You could also see a weight change of three pounds or more in one to two days.
How do you know if you are dehydrated? Early warning signs and symptoms of poor fluid intake include dry mouth, thick saliva, increased thirst, nausea, inelastic skin, dry skin, sunken eyes, confusion, headache or muscle aches. You may also feel weak or more fatigued.
What if someone has bladder concerns? Bladder issues and concerns with incontinence or urgency can cause people to limit their fluid intake. Slowly increase your fluids by 4 ounces every two or three days until you reach your fluid intake goal. For most people your body will
adjust, and your bathroom needs will not increase. Is it possible to get overhydrated? More is not always better. There is such a thing as too much hydration, especially for people who may have kidney disease, heart failure, or other medical conditions. If you are overhydrated, you may experience shortness of breath, swelling in the arms and legs, confusion, and increased urination. It’s best to contact a physician as soon as these symptoms occur. There are many ways to stay hydrated and avoid dehydration.
By getting enough fluids from food and drink you can realize the health benefits of healthy hydration. For more information about Northeast Rehabilitation Hospital, visit northeastrehab.com. Northeast Rehab is accredited by the Join Commision and has proudly earned Disease-Specific Care Certification in stroke, brain injury and amputee rehabilitation.
Welcome Home Colonial Poplin, a 50-bed community skilled nursing center situated on 12.5 tree lined acres in the picturesque town of Fremont, NH. We Believe: The people we care for are our highest priority • In the preservation of Dignity, Self Respect, and Residents’ Rights • In the person-centered approach to care • In encouraging family members to become closely involved • Medicare and Medicaid Certified • Prime HMO Affiliations • Physical, Occupational, Respiratory & Speech Therapy • Respiratory Therapy • Advanced wound care management • Cardio Pulmonary Program • Treatment of joint replacements
• BI-PAP and C-PAP oversight • Sub acute services: IV Therapy, PICC, Midline, Peripheral, Central & Portacath • Geriatric Mental Health Services • Diverse Life Enrichment Program • Pain Management • Respite Care • Poplin Way Assisted living
Our reputation throughout New England is unparalleled with clinical surveys that have always been deficiency free. 137344
442 Main Street, Fremont, NH 03044 603-895-3126 | Fax 603-895-3662 | colonialpoplin.com
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SENIOR IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Mark Nalbandian
A veteran helping veterans with at-home care Mark Nalbandian of Bedford is a Navy veteran and caregiver at 360 SHS, a Bedford-based organization that offers home care and pairs senior caregivers with elderly clients in need. He delves into his journey from serving in the military to providing care for fellow veterans and shares his experiences and insights on how this transition has shaped his personal growth and impacted the broader community’s perspective on veteran care. How has your experience as a Navy Airman shaped your approach to caregiving? I spent six years in the Navy and during that time I learned quite a few great life skills, such as communication, consistency and the importance of showing up ready to work every day. I have had the privilege to care for three seniors who are Korean conflict veterans. I am currently caring for one of these clients still. It means the world for me to be able to support fellow veterans as they age in place. What were some challenges you faced transitioning from military service to a caregiving role? After my time in the Navy, I spent 25 years in commercial concrete, followed by a building contractor and real estate career. I began working with [360 SHS owner] Judy Loubier about five years ago. I got sick in 2008-2009 with stage 4 head and neck cancer. I faced some harsh treatments and needed constant care while I was recovering. Once I recovered, I saw my dad in the hospital. When he was picked up by an ambulance to bring him to the care facility, I inquired about the profession and what an average day looks like and it inspired me to try something new.
Now, communication, companionship and everyday chores are a big part of my job. It’s really meaningful to help keep seniors and veterans safe and prevent falls. What personal significance does caring for fellow veterans hold for you, and how has it influenced your growth since your military service? I am in my mid to late 60s and the veteran clients like the commonality of and mutual understanding of being veterans. The related experiences are so meaningful and we can converse for hours. I love it. I worked for a few concepts before discovering 360 SHS, and five years later I know this is the last job that I will ever work. I don’t do it for the money. I do it because it is important and I pride myself on being able to support my fellow veterans. How has your work at 360 SHS impacted the community’s understanding of veteran care? 360 SHS was doing a great job of caring for veterans before I was brought on five years ago. However, I can bring a different perspective, being a veteran myself, and have been able to build great relationships with senior veterans throughout the community. 360 SHS understands the
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Mark Nalbandian. Courtesy photo.
importance of matching veteran caregivers with veteran clients as they are able to create meaningful relationships. It feels good to help veterans — and other seniors — age in place without having to get dragged out to a nursing home. I feel better knowing that they get to stay in their home and not have to leave their life behind after bravely serving our country. What advice would you give to veterans considering a caregiving career post-service? Do it! It is a lot more meaningful than when I was building bridges
in my previous career. I never saw myself doing this job, but I love it and know I will do this until the day I retire. 360 SHS helps hire active reservists, knowing they might have to up and leave. They provide services for veterans who can get paired with 360 SHS through the VA. 360 SHS offers a lot of recognition and appreciation during Veterans Day and outreach to all veteran clients and caregivers. — Angie Sykeny
Volunteer opportunities Looking to make a difference in your community? Volunteering provides an opportunity to give back while learning new skills and connecting with like-minded people. Whether you’re passionate about environmental issues, working with young people, supporting the arts or advocating for animal welfare, here are some local organizations and causes that could benefit from your contribution. • AARP NH Speakers Bureau Do you like educating others and public speaking? Become a voice in your community. Speakers Bureau volunteers educate AARP members and the public on a variety of topics from safely aging in place, to preparing to become a caregiver, as well as fraud and leading a brain-healthy lifestyle. If you are more comfortable behind the scenes, there are roles for you, too. You pick speaking opportunities that work best for your schedule. For more information, email pdube@aarp.org.
• American Red Cross New Hampshire Chapter (the Northern New England Regional Headquarters is at 2 Maitland St. in Concord; redcross.org/nne, 225-6697) report that their most needed volunteer positions are the shelter support teams (volunteers who help residents during large-scale disasters), disaster health services teams (for volunteers who are licensed health care providers) and disaster action teams (for smaller disasters, such as home fires), according to a press release. The Red Cross is also seeking blood donor ambassadors who check blood donors into appointments, answer questions and give out snacks, the press release said. The Red Cross also needs transportation specialists who deliver blood to hospitals from Red Cross facilities, the release said. The Red Cross provides training for volunteers, the release said. See redcross.org/ volunteertoday.
• Beaver Brook Association (117 Ridge Road in Hollis; beaverbrook.org, 465-7787) has a variety of volunteer opportunities including building and installing nesting boxes on the Nesting Box Trail, building Little Lending Libraries for Maple Hill Farm, gardening, working with supplies, working at outdoor events, helping with trail maintenance, painting buildings and other facilities, and more, according to the website. Go online to fill out an application, where you can indicate interests and availability, or contact the office Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. • Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire (222 Court St. in Portsmouth; 570-8469, blackheritagetrailnh. org) offers volunteer opportunities on specific projects or areas of expertise and with public interaction positions (such as event greeter and trail guide), according to the website, where you can submit a form describing your interests.
• Black Ice Pond Hockey (blackicepondhockey.com, info@ blackicepondhockey.com) helps out in advance of and during the annual threeday outdoor hockey tournament in Concord (usually in the January-February time frame). See the website to fill out the volunteer application to help with work in merchandise, sales, player check-in, shoveling, ice maintenance, scoring, setup and more. • Canterbury Shaker Village (288 Shaker Road in Canterbury; shakers. org, 783-9511) seeks volunteers to help out in the garden, give tours, offer administrative assistance, help with special events and more, according to the website. Go online to fill out an application or reach out to 783-9511, ext. 202, or jlessard@shakers.org, the website said. • Capitol Center for the Arts (Chubb Theatre at 44 S. Main St. in Concord, Bank of NH Stage at 16 S.
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Main St. in Concord; ccanh.com) uses volunteers at events for “patron comfort and safety, before, after and during a performance” according to the website. Sign up online, where you can specify your volunteering interests and times of availability. • The CareGivers NH (700 E. Industrial Park Drive in Manchester; caregiversnh.org, 622-4948), a program of Catholic Charities, offers transportation, help with grocery shopping and getting food, visits and reassurance calls to elderly and disabled people in the greater Manchester and Nashua areas, according to the website. Volunteers are needed to provide transportation and deliver food as well as to help with administrative work and in the warehouse, the website said. Go online to download the volunteer application and to see detailed frequently asked questions. • CASA of New Hampshire (casanh.org), “a nonprofit that trains volunteers to advocate for children who have experienced abuse and neglect,” holds virtual information sessions when staff members and an active volunteer will provide information and answer questions, according to a press release (see the schedule at CASA’s website). Volunteer advocates participate in a 40-hour training course and are then supported by a peer coordinator and program manager, according to the website, where you can apply and find information on CASA fundraising events. • Educational Farm at Joppa Hill (174 Joppa Hill Road in Bedford; theeducationalfarm. org, 472-4724) has a variety of animal-specific volunteer opportunities (“chicken caretaker” and “duck docent” for example) as well as positions related to gardening and farm maintenance (“Marvelous Mucker”), fundraising and more; see the website for the listings, which include the specific person to contact for each position and a rundown of the responsibilities.
• The Franco-American Centre (100 Saint Anselm Drive, Sullivan Arena, in Manchester; 641-7114, facnh.com), which promotes French language, culture and heritage, seeks volunteers for work including marketing and communications, social media and grant research/writing, according to the website. Some French language skills are helpful but not required, the website said. • International Institute of New England (iine.org, 647-1500), whose mission “is to create opportunities for refugees and immigrants to succeed through resettlement, education, career advancement and pathways to citizenship,” according to the website, offers volunteer opportunities including help with Afghan refugee and evacuee resettlement, English for speakers of other languages support, youth mentoring and career mentoring. Go online to fill out the volunteer form. • Intown Concord (intownconcord. org, 226-2150) has volunteer opportunities including working within the Intown organization and helping with special events. Go online or contact info@IntownConcord.org. • Jetpack Comics (37 N. Main St. in Rochester; jetpackcomics.com, 330-9636) has volunteer opportunities for Free Comic Book Day, the annual celebration of comic books usually held the first Saturday in May, which Jetpack organizes in Rochester as a multi-location event. (Perks to volunteers who help out all day include all the special comics released that year, a patch, food and more, according to the website). Jetpack has other volunteer opportunities throughout the year as well; contact jetpackcomics@gmail.com. • John Hay Estate at The Fells (456 Route 103A in Newbury; thefells.org, 763-4789) offers volunteer opportunities including working at the Gatehouse office, helping the education department with historical and art exhibits, working at the shop or the main house, maintaining the
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facilities, gardening and working on special events, according to the website, where you can find a detailed description of some of the gardening and other work. Call the Fells, ext. 3, to speak with member services. • Local Food Plymouth (localfoodsplymouth.org), “an online farmers market with weekly curbside pickup located in Plymouth New Hampshire,” is looking for volunteers, specifically delivery drivers, according to a recent press release. Other areas they have volunteers for include parking lot attendant on pick up day, weeding and garden work, committee membership and website tutorials, according to the website, where you can sign up for volunteering. • Lowell Summer Music Series (lowellsummermusic.org) is seeking volunteers to work for the series director doing ticketing, admissions, customer service and audience relations, usually from 5 to 10 p.m. (during shows). Go online to fill out a volunteer form. • Manchester Historic Association (Millyard Museum is at 200 Bedford St. in Manchester, Research Center is at 129 Amherst St.; manchesterhistoric.org, 622-7531) offers volunteer opportunities including working at the front desk and gift shop at the Millyard Museum and helping with programs, tours and events, according to the website, where you can download a volunteer application. Call or email history@manchesterhistoric.org with questions. • McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center (2 Institute Drive in Concord; starhop.com, 271-7827) has opportunities for volunteer positions including school group educator, docent, helping with events, exhibit maintenance, grounds maintenance (including gardening) and more, according to the website, where you can also find volunteer perks. Contact kthompson@starhop.com for information.
• Mt. Kearsarge Indian Museum (18 Highlawn Road in Warner; indianmuseum.org, 456-2600) has volunteer opportunities including giving tours, organizing events, and doing office work and grounds work, according to the website. Contact volunteer@indianmuseum.org. • NAMI NH (naminh.org, 800242-6264) has volunteer opportunities related to advocacy, support groups and family-to-family programs as well as work on events, such as the NAMI Walks NH 5K, according to the website, where you can find applications and more details for specific programs (including the specific program’s contact). Or reach out to volunteer@ naminh.org or 225-5359, ext. 322. • New Hampshire Film Festival (nhfilmfestival.com) takes volunteer applications to work its annual festival, held in October. “All volunteers will receive tickets to screenings, an NHFF T-shirt, and the staff’s undying gratitude!” — so says the festival’s website. Volunteer opportunities include positions working on the prep as well as the execution of the event. Fill out the application, where you can indicate your desired level of volunteering, or contact team@ nhfilmfestival.com with questions. • New Hampshire Food Bank (700 East Industrial Drive in Manchester; nhfoodbank.org, 669-9725) has group and individual volunteer opportunities, which include working at mobile food pantries, working at the food bank’s garden April through November, working at the Saturday morning food drops at JFK Coliseum in Manchester and working at the food bank facility, according to the website, where you can sign up to volunteer and see a calendar of when and where help is needed. Or contact 669-9725, ext. 1131, or email volunteercoordinator@nhfoodbank.org. • NH Audubon (nhaudubon.org) has several volunteer positions posted on its website, including volunteer gardeners at the Pollinator Garden at the McLane Center in Concord
(contact ddeluca@nhaudubon.org); a New Hampshire Bird Records office assistant in the Concord office (contact rsuomala@nhaudubon.org); a Backyard Winter Bird Survey project assistant (contact rsuomala@nhaudubon.org); an eBird data assistant (contact rsuomala@nhaudubon.org); wildlife volunteer field surveys; the grant program research assistant and a publication assistant, according to the website. • NH Boat Museum (399 Center St. in Wolfeboro Falls; nhbm.org, 569-4554) offers volunteer opportunities including working at special events and fundraisers (including the Alton Bay Boat Show), office work, working with the exhibits, helping with educational programs, building and grounds care and maintenance and more. Sign up online, where you can select your areas of interest, or contact programs@nhbm.org. • NH PBS (nhpbs.org) has several volunteer opportunities including auction volunteer, creative services volunteer, membership department, and NHPBS Kids Writers Contest and Our Hometown Program Development manager, according to the website. Go online to fill out a volunteer form that includes designating your availability and special skills and interests. • N.H. Preservation Alliance (7 Eagle Square in Concord; nhpreservation.org, 224-2281) needs volunteers on an occasional basis to help produce educational events and to help with public programs such as tours, barn heritage celebrations or on-site preservation trades demonstrations, according to an email from the group’s executive director. Contact admin@nhpreservation.org to indicate what you’d like to help with and whether you are comfortable in both indoor and outdoor settings, the email said. • NH State Parks (nhstateparks.org) has volunteer groups that hold volunteer work days throughout the year, according to the volunteer program director at the state’s Department of Natural Cultural Resources’ Division of Parks and Recreation. Find groups that work on specific parks at nhstateparks.org/aboutus/support/volunteer (such as the Derry
Trail Riders who work on Bear Brook State Park or the Surf Rider Foundation, which works on Hampton Beach State Park). Or contact volunteer@dncr. nh.gov. • The Northeast Organic Farming Association of New Hampshire (nofanh.org) seeks volunteers with planning their annual Winter Conference, assisting with spring bulk order pickup, and committee and board membership, according to the website. Go online to fill out a volunteer form or contact program coordinator Laura Angers at info@nofanh.org. • Park Theatre (19 Main St. in Jaffrey; theparktheatre.org, 532-9300) has volunteer opportunities for ushers as well as work in concessions, parking, office work, fundraising, marketing, stage production and more, according to the website, where you can fill out an online application where you can indicate your interests and availability. Call or email info@theparktheatre.org with questions. • Pope Memorial SPCA of Concord-Merrimack County (94 Silk Farm Road in Concord; popememorialspca.org, 856-8756) holds regular volunteer orientations (pre-registration is required) with volunteer opportunities including small animal care and socialization, dog enrichment, dog park assistance and workroom assistance, according to the website. Go online to submit a volunteer application or to ask questions of the volunteer coordinator. • Special Olympics New Hampshire (sonh.org) volunteers can serve as coaches, trainers, event organizers, fundraisers, managers and unified partners who play alongside some athletes, according to the website. Volunteers can work at an event or with a team, the website said. For more information contact specialolympics@sonh.org or call 624-1250. • United Way of Greater Nashua (unitedwaynashua.org, 882-4011) is seeking volunteers for its Pop Up Pantries; specifically it is looking for someone to help distribute food on
Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at River Pines Mobile Home Park in Nashua, according to an April press release. The United Way also has volunteer opportunities related to one-day events or fundraisers, work on committees within the organization (such as on finance or marketing) and in groups such as the Stay United group, a 50+ volunteerism group, according to the organization’s website. The organization also helped to put together a website, volunteergreaternashua.org, featuring volunteer opportunities from other area nonprofits. • UpReach Therapeutic Equestrian Center (153 Paige Hill Road in Goffstown; upreachtec.org, 497-2343) will hold volunteer training for people who would like to help clients connect with horses for programs (Monday through Thursday) including Therapeutic Riding, Hippotherapy and Carriage Driving, according to a press release. Volunteers Monday through Sunday also help with bar chores, the release said. Horse experience is appreciated but not required and volunteers must be at least 14 years old and able to walk for 60 consecutive min-
utes along with brief periods of jogging, the release said. Contact the center to find out when the next training sessions will be offered. • Young Inventors’ Program (unh. edu/leitzel-center/young-inventors-program) uses volunteers to support its annual Northern New England Invention Convention event (held this year in March), according to program director Tina White, whom you can contact at Tina.White@unh.edu (or see unh. edu/leitzel-center/young-inventors-program/connect/volunteer). The program is a partner of the University of New Hampshire and UNH Extension, where there are more opportunities for volunteers interested in STEM youth programming, she said. See extension. unh.edu/educators/4-h-stem-docents for information on the 4-H STEM Docent program, which builds and trains volunteers to help with educating New Hampshire K-12 youth in science, technology, engineering and mathematics projects, White said in an email. Contact Megan.Glenn@unh.edu for more information on that program.
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