55+ Life Fall 2022

TUSCANY: TRIP OF A LIFETIME • SOCIAL SECURITY TIPS • HOT TODDIES TO KEEP YOU COZY

FALL 2022

SEX AFTER 50 YUP, WE WENT THERE

DATING AGAIN

IT’S POSSIBLE TO FIND YOUR MATCH

|

55PLUSLIFEMAG.COM

KEEPING YOUR RELATIONSHIP FRESH

GET REACQUAINTED WITH YOUR PARTNER

I love having the opportunity to be part of such a vibrant, alive, diverse and friendly community – full of gifted and intelligent people.

Tina G. (Resident since July 2011)

Never retire from the life you love.

Tailored exclusively for adults 62 and better, Woodland Pond is Mid-Hudson Valley’s only Continuing Care Retirement Community. Take a dip in the heated pool, indulge in delicious dining with new friends, put your green thumb to work in the garden or expand your mind with classes at SUNY New Paltz. The choices and possibilities are yours! And, Woodland Pond offers a full spectrum of on-site health services should you ever need them—with predictable and affordable costs for life.

MID-HUDSON VALLEY’S PREMIER CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

845.256.5521 | WOODLANDPONDNP.ORG 100 WOODLAND POND CIRCLE, NEW PALTZ, NY 12561

All that’s missing is you.

JOIN OUR WAITLIST

Choose a Medicare plan with real advantages.

MVP Health Care® (MVP) Medicare Advantage plans are designed to fit your life—with convenient access to care, extra coverage and value, and the support of a team of experts committed to helping you on your personal health journey.

Plans start at $0 a month!

Call 1-833-368-4606 (TTY 711) Seven days a week, 8 am–8 pm Eastern Time

Visit morefrommvp.com

MVP Health Plan, Inc. is an HMO-POS/PPO organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in MVP Health Plan depends on contract renewal. For accommodations of persons with special needs at meetings call, 1-800-324-3899 (TTY 711).

Y0051_7600_M MVPad202208_GenMedicare_v1.indd 2

55+ Living Guide 833-368-4606 morefrommvp.com 8.375 x 10.875” 10.1.2022

9/7/2022 11:44:47 AM

The Most Recommended Store In Schenectady

CARPET • TILE • HARDWOOD • VINYL PLANK

1910 Maxon Road Ext., Schenectady • Open Monday-Friday, 9am-6pm 518-372-5664 • SchenectadyFloorCovering.com

INDEPENDENT LIVING

ASSISTED LIVING

MEMORY CARE

3 LEVELS OF SENIOR LIVING. 6 EXCEPTIONAL COMMUNITIES. NISKAYUNA • LATHAM • TROY • EAST GREENBUSH • QUEENSBURY • SLINGERLANDS

(518) 280-8385 • EddySeniorLiving.com Contact us today to schedule your in-person or virtual tour!

A PARTNER YOU CAN TRUST At Eddy Senior Living, we have been keeping you and your loved ones safe for over 40 years!

STYLE YOUR CLOSET.

STYLE YOUR LIFE.

Custom closets at affordable prices MENTION IVE THIS AD TO RECE

$

2OO OFF ITY

YOUR CLOZETIV SERVICE!

Let Clozetivity Custom Closets transform your space!

Always dreamed of a beautifully organized closet, but couldn’t justify the price? You shouldn’t have to take out a second mortgage to get a well-organized closet.

Clozetivity makes closet design affordable and attainable.

Life is complicated. Closets shouldn’t be!

REACH-IN & WALK-IN CLOSETS · GARAGES LAUNDRY ROOMS · MUDROOMS · PANTRIES Contact us to schedule your free consultation!

CLOZETIVITY OF THE CAPITAL REGION 518-779-9700 · clozetivity.com/capitalregion

Creamy Sweet Potato Hommus Soup SERVES 4 Ingredients: 2 Tbsp.

1 medium 2 5 cups 3 medium 2 tsp.

1 1/4 cups 1/2 tsp.

Olive oil Yellow onion, chopped Garlic cloves, minced Vegetable stock Sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes McCormick® Ground Cumin Cedar’s® Hommus, Original Salt

Optional garnish: Sliced Avocados from Mexico and/or Stonyfield® Organic 0% Fat Plain Greek Yogurt Directions: 1. In large pot, add olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add onions and let cook for about 5 minutes, or until translucent.

Add garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

3. Add vegetable stock, sweet potatoes and cumin and briefly bring to a boil.

4. Reduce heat to simmer and cook for 30 to 45 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender.

Chase away the chilly weather with this hearty, nutritious and delicious fall soup. It’s a great warmer-upper that makes for tasty, easy-to-heat leftovers.

5. Stir in hommus and remove from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree soup until smooth and creamy (or transfer soup to a regular blender to puree). Season with salt and top with optional garnish. Enjoy!

simply healthy from your Hannaford Dietitians

We’re committed to supporting your health and wellness goals.

Our team of registered dietitians offer free nutritional services online and in-store.

Visit hannaford.com/dietitians to learn more.

Nutritional Information: (optional ingredients not included) Amount per serving: Calories 341; Total Fat 14 g; Saturated Fat 2 g; Carbohydrate 47 g; Sodium 713 mg; Protein 9 g

Photo: iStockphoto.com/ljubaphoto.

CONTENTS

features

the love issue!

16 SEX AFTER 50

What you need to know to navigate this new phase of intimacy

22 FINDING YOUR MATCH

A look at the world of dating after 50

26 KEEPING YOUR RELATIONSHIP FRESH

How to get reacquainted with your partner and yourself

8

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

GET MORE ONLINE

55pluslifemag.com Sign up for our monthly e-newsletter and be the first to hear about online-exclusive stories, contests and giveaways Follow us @55pluslifemag on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!

Protecting What You Value Most As a full-service Estate Planning and Elder Law firm, we pride ourselves on being able to walk you and your family through all stages of Estate Planning, Medicaid Planning, Estate Administration and Tax Planning.

• Estate Planning • Long Term Care Planning

Webinars available at

herzoglaw.com

• Business Succession Planning • Special Needs Trusts / Guardianships • Estate Administration • Estate Litigation

ALBANY

7 Southwoods Boulevard

S A R ATO G A

K I N G S TO N

47 West Harrison Street www.herzoglaw.com

130 N. Front Street •

518.465.7581

C L I F TO N PA R K

855 Route 146, Suite 220

MORE CONTENTS

60

33

46

health & wellness

travel

60 PUTTING YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD

39 A TASTE OF TUSCANY

66 WORRIED ABOUT ‘SENIOR MOMENTS’?

Follow these doctors’ tips to sharpen your memory

68 FAMILY AFFAIR

Coping with an adult child’s mental illness as a parent

food & drink

Campiglia Marittima is a hidden gem worth seeking out

46 OUI, OUI MONTREAL!

A taste of Europe is just a short drive away

retirement 72 7 THINGS YOU MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT SOCIAL SECURITY Back payments, parents’ benefits and how to get your questions answered

30 WARMING UP

Hot toddies for a cold weather win

33 WHO’S GOT THE APPLE?

A trio of apple recipes to get you through fall and the holidays

home & garden 51

DECORATING WITH HOUSEPLANTS Tips from the pros on greening up your home

57 REPAIR OR REPLACE?

What you need to know about the lifespan of your appliances

10

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

columns 14

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

65 BE YOUR BEST

Benita Zahn on why embracing change is a good idea

74 THE VINE

Italy or Bust: the multigenerational trip of a lifetime

Photos: See individual stories for sources.

How to keep those tootsies in top shape

AT THE L ANDING HOTEL

10% FROM EACH PINKTOBER ROOM BOOKED WILL BE DONATED TO THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY®

$17,000+ HOT SEAT DRAWINGS WEDNESDAYS 12PM–5PM Young at Heart guests who earn 55 points will have a chance to win $55 in Slot Play.

25 WINNERS EVERY WEDNESDAY!

RiversCasino.com 1 Rush Street | Schenectady, NY 12305

Must be 21+. Gambling problem?

Scan here or call 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) to talk with someone now about your gambling.

Complete set of rules available at RiversCasino.com.

Publisher & Editor-in-Chief Alison Michael | alison@55pluslifemag.com Consulting Editor Janet Reynolds Sales Consultant Teresa Frazer I teresa@55pluslifemag.com Marketing Consultant Terri Jacobsen Consulting Art Director Tony Pallone Cover Art Karen Chapman

passion

Do you have a for helping others?

Join our team today.

Apply at HomeInstead.com/334 or call (518) 346-6769

Consulting Online Content Producer Caitlin Manner Contributing Writers Theresa Sullivan Barger Rod Michael Sheryl Nance-Nash Rebecca Gatto Janet Reynolds Chris Harris Cari Scribner Caitlin Manner Brianna Snyder Alison Michael Benita Zahn Chris Michael Visit us at

55pluslifemag.com Connect with us

@55pluslifemag

38 Mall Way, #83, West Sand Lake, NY 12196 518-713-4765 • editor@55pluslifemag.com

P AI D T R AI N I N G SU P P OR T I V E O FFI C E S T AFF P A RT & FU LL T I M E S C H E D U L E S Each Home Instead® franchise is independently owned and operated. ©2021 Home Instead, Inc.

12

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

55+ Living Guide, LLC. Copyright 2022.

All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced in any fashion, including electronically, in part or whole, without written consent from 55+ Living Guide, LLC.

PARTNER CONTENT

Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery of the future, or here today?

I

BY ROBERT E. O’LEARY, M.D.

n the field of orthopedic surgery, knee replacement is one of the most commonly performed procedures in the world.

It remains a highly successful operation for the treatment of severe knee arthritis and various other conditions. For the right patients, knee replacement helps to relieve pain, restore function, and provide patients the quality of life they deserve.

In the history of knee replacement surgery, modern techniques and implant designs evolved rapidly during the 1970s and 80s. Traditional methods have helped achieve excellent patient outcomes and affected countless lives around the world.

How have we evolved in the last 50 years? The emergence of new technology in the last decade has helped to introduce the era of robotic- and computer-assisted knee replacement surgery. Further research is needed to understand the longterm benefits of these new technologies; however, our goals are to provide patients with a quicker recovery, less pain after surgery, and a longer lifespan of their new knee.

Patients have many questions about robotic knee replacement surgery and how it will affect their treatment. If your surgeon has indicated that you are a candidate for traditional knee replacement, then robotic knee replacement is most likely an option for you. After consultation, your surgeon will obtain specialized imaging of your knee, typically a CT

scan or X-rays. A virtual 3D model of your knee is created to allow for measurement and sizing of your new knee replacement.

During the operation your surgeon will place specialized computer sensors around the knee joint in order to measure the motion of your knee and the function of your ligaments.

A robotic-arm device will then help your surgeon to accurately reconstruct the knee joint in preparation for the new implants. Importantly, your surgeon is still in control!

Improvements in surgical and anesthesia techniques have allowed patients to regain function rapidly after surgery. Patients can expect a shorter hospital stay, or often to return home the same day after knee replacement. Many robotic knee replacement surgeries take place outside of hospitals in specialized ambulatory surgery centers.

It is important to talk with your surgeon about a personalized treatment plan, and to establish an understanding of your previous treatments and goals for activity after surgery.

Always consult with your surgeon about the risks of surgery, alternative treatment options, and expected recovery after knee replacement.

Dr. O’Leary sees patients in Albany, Malta, and Saratoga Springs.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact The Bone & Joint Center at (518) 489-2666.

THE BONE & JOINT CENTER Offices throughout the Capital Region | (518) 489-2666 | theboneandjointcenter.com

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

ALISON MICHAEL alison@55pluslifemage.com

T

Magico…

his past summer my family and I took our and reading about the places we explored in Italy (page 39), long-awaited trip to Italy, a trip that would forever and leave with a piqued curiosity about why this one should become engraved in my heart and mind as one of be on your bucket list. the best trips of my life. My husband and I traveled Our feature stories this issue look at relationships, love, with our teenage son and his grandparents, my in-laws, for and sex. Yup, we went there—in an effort to open up diaa 10-day vacation to a hidden gem on the coast of logue about topics that often feel taboo. We explore Tuscany. ways to keep your relationship fresh as we age From Rome we traveled to Campiglia (page 26), the challenges that can come Love doesn’t make the Marittima, a medieval village located with sex and intimacy after 50 (page 16), world go round. Love is what on the Tuscan coast. It is a place where and how to navigate the world of datmakes the ride worthwhile. time stands still, entrenched in history ing, should you find yourself in that new — Franklin P Jones and Italian culture. From the moment we chapter (page 22). Most of us probably arrived to the day we left this magical place, we cringe when we think about dating in this age soaked up the beautiful landscape and sea, the delicious of technology. How did we all survive without cellphones food and wine, and the ancient history prevalent throughand online dating apps? It’s a whole new—somewhat overout Europe. whelming and intimidating—dating world out there. It’s safe As I am on this 55+ life journey with you, I like to share to say that many things change as we age, but love is somesome of my experiences. I hope you enjoy seeing our photos thing that never goes out of style.

 Chris, Alison and Luke Michael in Campiglia Marittima, an off-the-beaten-path destination in the Italian region of Tuscany.

14

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

She’s been

waiting for this.

Independent living for equally independent adults.

Get more and worry less.

55+ ACTIVE ADULT COMMUNITIES

In-person or virtual tours available.

518.490.4756

N O RTH G R E E N BU SH | GLE N VI LLE | SARATO GA | GU I LD E RLAN D | HALFM OON

SummitSeniorLife.com/SL

SEX After 50

BY JANET REYNOLDS

f you’ve seen Annie Hall, you likely remember this scene. Their relationship has hit a speed bump, and Woody Allen and Annie (played by Diane Keaton) are each seeing therapists. At one point, their respective therapists ask if they are having sex. Allen’s response?

“Hardly ever. Maybe three times a week.” Annie’s response? “Constantly. Maybe three times a week.”

It’s a funny scene and one that likely had many a couple simultaneously laughing while also internally cringing just a little at the truth. We all fall in love in our younger years and jump into bed assuming we will magically have the BEST SEX EVER ALL THE TIME. Oh, and we expect—thank

16

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

you, media and books and social media—that this kind of sex will remain that way forever.

Fast forward to life post-50. After years of working and raising kids and managing all the things, many of us increasingly fantasize about sleep more than sex. Add to that changing bodies—hello, menopause, physical ailments, libido changes—and sex and intimacy can suddenly become a topic about as popular as money or dying. Rather than a place of connection, the bedroom can become a place to avoid or, at worst, a place of friction.

The good news is that it doesn’t have to be this way. The key, experts says, is recognizing that, just like our bodies, our

Photo: iStockphoto.com/ljubaphoto.

I

What you need to know to navigate this new phase of intimacy

Getting older is an opportunity for us to have deeper conversations, to grow in deeper levels of intimacy and connection. It’s the benefit of a longterm relationship—you can understand you don’t know all there is to know about this person.”

Photo courtesy Dr. Bridget Finn.

—Terri St. George, a psychotherapist and certified sex therapist

sexual desires and needs evolve as we age. Reaching out to a partner and openly discussing these changes can lead to more satisfaction, closeness and overall happiness.

“Couples say they want it to be like it was when they first met,” says Dr. Bridget Finn, founder and owner of Capital Region Center for Sexual Health. “There’s nothing like when you first met. And when you think that way, you might miss the possibility of something even greater.”

When we’re young, everything is new with our partner.

“People think that was the easy time and yes it was, but you were trying to attract somebody, investing time and attention,” Finn adds. “When we go into maintenance and physiology is not on our side, that’s when we need to start redefining.”

“The aging issue is multifaceted,” says Terri St. George, a psychotherapist and certified sex therapist working with patients in the Capital Region. “It feels like overnight you have a new body. Sometimes you look at your hands and don’t even recognize them.”

Accepting this new body can be hard, especially if you have an assumption—thank you, society—that an older body is not as sexy or alluring as that 20- or 30-something body you once had. “There can be a lot of grief and letting go is that first step,” she says.

“The second part is to figure out the new normal,” St.

Photo courtesy Terri St. George.

LIFESTYLE

The first step is deciding that we want to be that couple that gets this into a better spot. Then the how will come on the steps to take for support and accountability.”

—Dr. Bridget Finn, founder and owner of Capital Region Center for Sexual Health

George says. “Identify the things you can change and treat, and the things you have to accept. The new normal is working with what you’ve got.”

The physical changes associated with aging for both men and women are real. Menopause brings about lowered estrogen, which in turn can create vaginal dryness, a leading cause of pain during intercourse, as well as lowered libidos.

For men, getting and maintaining an erection can become more difficult. Other health issues, such as heart problems, diabetes and medications, can also impact people’s physical abilities in the bedroom or exacerbate their difficulties.

But workarounds and options do exist. Creams can help with dryness while pills can help with erections. More important, say Finn and St. George, is having conversations about what’s going on. The clitoral manipulation that once sent your 20-something lady skyrocketing to orgasm may now simply aggravate her vulva. Your man, meanwhile, may need a different kind of stimulation to maintain his erection, no matter what pill he is or isn’t taking. Assuming what worked in your 20s and 30s will work now in your later years is one way to potentially ensure frustration all around.

“Erections may not be as reliable and penises may not function as they used to. That’s a difficult change for men even if it’s normal,” says St. George, noting that penises need good blood flow and nerve function to operate maximally.

CONTINUES ON 18  FALL 2022 | 55PLUSLIFEMAG.COM

17

LIFESTYLE CONTINUED FROM 17

“There can be a lot of emotions associated with a penis that doesn’t “work” as well as it once did.”

“Some women experience some dryness, some sexual pain and some have difficulties with desire and arousal,” says St. George. “Libido might be problematic. You can talk to your doctor about vaginal dryness. What is my new normal and what can I change?”

Differences in desire is another potential minefield as people age. “Desire is a complicated mixture,” she adds, noting that desire and libido are not just hormonal. “We can cultivate desire in our heads.” And if desire is at least partially mental, people can take steps to reimagine and re-create desire, St. George says, adding that “it is a valid route to say ‘I’m not interested anymore.’”

The key to navigating the new normal, both therapists say, is conversation. “The challenge is that couples may go through intimacy together with no issues and no practice talking about it,” says Finn, “so the communication maybe hasn’t been there because there have been no challenges.

But now you need to talk more. What do I need now? What would feel good to me physically now? If the communication wasn’t robust through the relationship, it can feel awkward.”

Finn and St. George both advise rethinking intimacy.

“Couples need to redefine as they go through life how they define successful intimacy. If you’re still defining it with a rock-hard penis and a vulva ready to go at a moment’s notice, you’ll be continually disappointed,” says Finn.

Step one, suggests Finn, is moving beyond only measuring sex by performance. “Couples need to expand their idea of successful intimacy,” she says, noting that thinking beyond the act of intercourse is critical.

“You have the power to create the intimacy you want because it comes from within. Couples who make it a priority, who decide that being a couple who enjoys intimacy over their lifespan together, can try to culminate in something very good. We have to let go of what we think it was 25 years ago. If we don’t do that, we’re missing what’s possible.”

Finn and St. George both know this can be challenging.

Many people aren’t comfortable asking for what they want in or out of the bedroom. But the potential rewards are worth it.

“People don’t know how to talk about sex. You can be together forever, you can feel like you’re close in every way, but still don’t know how to talk about sex,” says St. George.

“We have to be able to communicate to adapt. We can’t envision that this process will involve change in ourselves and our patterns. We gain weight, our bodies change. We will all lose our physical youth and attractiveness. We could say we’re just not going to have sex, but that’s so limiting—sex based on hot bodies.”

Real change, Finn suggests, begins with each individual in the relationship. “Keeping it fresh means keeping yourself fresh,” Finn says. “Take care of your mind, body, and spirit. Feel good about your own body. Know what makes you excited and turned on and then show up and share it. It all starts with you.

Photo: iStockphoto.com/ljubaphoto.

CONTINUES ON 20 

18

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

Providing Quality Senior Housing Communities Since 1995!

Garry J. Kearns, Executive Director

American Housing Foundation, Inc. • 10 Starbuck Drive, Suite 209, Green Island, NY 12183 • (518) 279-3810 • ahfinc.net

Columbia Crest ColumbiaCrest@ahfinc.net

90 One & Two Bedroom Apartments | Min. age requirement 60 Rent: 1 Bedroom $391–$858* | 2 Bedrooms $982-$1145* 427 Columbia St., Cohoes, NY 12047 | (518) 235-4558 ALL PROPERTIES

Highpointe HPAM@ahfinc.net

82 One & Two Bed Apartments | Min. age requirement 55 Rent: 1 Bedroom $572–$925* | 2 Bedrooms $1030* 30 Rockrose Way, Malta, NY 12020 | (518) 583-7977

ARE SMOKE FREE, AND INCLUDE HEAT AND HOT WATER IN RENT!

Northern Pines NorthernPines@ahfinc.net

36 One & Two Bedroom Apartments | Min. age requirement 55 Rent: 1 Bedroom $575–$713* | 2 Bedrooms $835* 120 Northern Pines Rd., Wilton, NY 12831 | (518) 581-8959

Van Allen VanAllen@ahfinc.net

110 One & Two Bedroom Apartments | Min. age requirement 55 Rent: 1 Bedroom $556—$859* | 2 Bedrooms $986—$1160* 790 Rte. 9W, Glenmont, NY 12077 | (518) 767-0923

Whitehall Court

Whitehall@ahfinc.net 72 One & Two Bedroom Apartments | Min. age requirement 62 Rent: 1 Bedroom $652—$684* | 2 Bedrooms $802* 360 Whitehall Rd., Albany, NY 12208 | (518) 446-1920

Wilton Commons

WiltonCommons@ahfinc.net 36 One & Two Bedroom Apartments | Min. age requirement 55 Rent: 1 Bedroom $567—$690* | 2 Bedrooms $814* 100 Wilton Commons Dr., Wilton, NY 12831 | (518) 581-7696 *Rents are based on income guidelines determined by the area’s median income.

LIFESTYLE CONTINUED FROM 18

“If you have two people who aren’t growing and expanding in their lives, you’re going to have two stale people trying to

come together to have something fresh. It doesn’t work that way,” she adds. “We don’t live in a culture that encourages conversation or even permission for pleasure. Make sure you know you’re worthy of pleasure.” n

A few discoveries from a recent AARP-sponsored National Poll on Healthy Aging:

Close to two-thirds of those 65 to 80 say they’re still interested in sex whether or not they are sexually active.

72% of people between 65 and 80 have a romantic partner and of those 54% are sexually active.

Women were less likely than men to be sexually active — 31% overall, compared with 51% of men — but were more likely to be extremely or very satisfied with their sex lives.

One in three 50-somethings is having sex at least once a week.

SOURCE: https://www.aarp.org/health/healthy-living/info-2018/sex-after-50-survey-results.html

An Active Adult Community for Ages 50+ • Luxury 1- and 2-bedroom apartment homes, starting at $1,325 • Includes cable, internet, water and sewer, trash and snow removal • Maintenance-free living • Resident activities • No amenity entrance fees • Community room, outdoor patio, fitness center and much more!

• Most pets welcome • Open for tours by appointment only

50 Elliot Rd., East Greenbush, NY 12061 518-949-2321 | www.TheKensey.com

20

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

n i e Movecials Sp

Now leasing!

Enjoy a 55+ active adult lifestyle

Single Floor Townhouse-Style Luxury Duplex Rentals • Rents starting at $2500 • • • • •

Two Bedrooms and Two Baths One or Two Car Attached Garages 9 Foot Ceilings, Fireplace and Patio Granite and Stainless Steel Maintenance Free Living, includes Lawn Care, Snow Removal and more • Community Gardens • Pet Friendly with Dog Park

Call for more info:

518-855-RENT (7368) TownhomesAtWoodlandsEdge.com 91 HUTCHINS ROAD, BALLSTON SPA

LIFESTYLE

Finding Your

M AT C H A look at the world of dating after 50

BY CARI SCRIBNER

B

ack in the day, if you were single and ready to mingle, the advice was to casually look around the grocery store, the gym, your church or the library. Fast-forward to today, when everyone is rushing and/or wearing headphones, and reading books on Kindle, and meeting someone IRL (that’s “in real life” for those who are not up on their texting lingo) can seem as elusive as getting that date to the prom in high school.

All is not lost, however. Singles of all ages are looking for love in all the right places, and the dating pool is large, especially if you’re willing to dip your toe into the pool of dating 21st century-style.

According to an AARP survey, 56% of grandparents are either in the dating game or open to the idea. What they are seeking, however, depends on gender. A full 45% of female grandparents are looking for companionship, versus 25% of

22

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

men. And 17% of grandmas want a partner, as compared to 30% of grandpas.

Knowing what you’re looking for is critical to dating in general, no matter your age, but it’s especially important if you’re going to try dating online. Online dating apps allow members to create profiles with photos and a narrative. They can then scroll through other singles nearby. They swipe right to indicate interest, while a left swipe is a no thanks. If you both swipe right, it’s a “match” and it’s time to begin the virtual introduction to see if they’re interested in talking to you and maybe, eventually, meeting in person.

While the process can seem cold and impersonal to people used to meeting at places or events, the virtual meeting room, if you will, can help eliminate the wheat from the chaff, so to speak. Courtney Rubin of East Greenbush used the dating app Bumble to try to meet new people, and was matched

ONLINE DATING GLOSSARY • Catfishing: luring someone in with a photo that’s 10 years old, or worse, not you at all. Yes, it happens.

• Hatfishing: when someone wears a hat in all their photos, usually to hide their lack of hair • LTR: long-term relationship • BAE: when someone chooses you before anyone else.

• Ghosting: after exchanging a few messages or even going out, your date disappears without warning • Mosting: when your date makes you feel like the most incredible person in the world…then ghosts you • Submarining: your date disappears, only to resurface and say nothing about their absence • Swipe Right: indicates you are interested in someone’s online profile

Illustrations: iStockphoto.com. Phone chat: MarLei; hearts: Dimitris66.

• Swipe Left: indicates no interest. Next.

with the man who became her future husband, Bob Maggio.

“I got really good at swiping left before we met,” Rubin says.

“But after meeting Bob, we quickly took our profiles down.”

After dating for years, the couple married on Father’s Day this summer.

Michele Rutland of Wynantskill considers herself an online dating dinosaur. “Back in 2005, I was one of the first people I know to try online dating,” Rutland says. “When people asked where I met someone, I would whisper ‘online.’”

All told, Rutland says she met about 25 men, not all of whom were good matches. “I kissed a few frogs before finding my prince,” Rutland says about her husband, John Broderick.

But apps aren’t the only online dating option. Virtual speed dating has taken off in leaps and bounds. Once done in person before social distancing became the new normal, the Zoom “meet and greet” allows singles to connect with up to 12 potential matches in a flurry of about 90 minutes.

Participants have approximately 10 minutes for each conversation, which tends to be the usual “Where are you from?” and “What do you do?” If you’re on the shy side, organizers

Live better outdoors! Custom design & construction redbuddevelopment.com 518-691-0428

CONTINUES ON 24  FALL 2022 | 55PLUSLIFEMAG.COM

23

CONTINUED FROM 23

can supply a handy list of questions to ask your candidates.

Then, you send in the list of daters you’d like to see again, and if they also indicated interest, voila, you’re both sent contact info.

Meetup.com is another site that provides interested singles with a chance to discover new friends or, perhaps, partners.

The site is organized by interests, including everything from Reiki training, happy hours at area restaurants and swing dancing to walking tours of local sites and taking in current movies. These events take place in various settings; check the Meetup calendar online to give it a whirl.

Of course, plenty of couples still meet their sweethearts sans technical help. “I met my girlfriend the old-fashioned way,” says Sam Capuano of Lake Luzerne. “A guy walks into a bar…”

Or, you could marry your kindergarten sweetheart. Kelly Hughes and Jeff Barcomb of Colonie were friends in elementary school and had their first kiss playing Spin the Bottle. Then they drifted apart and both married other people.

Flash-forward a couple of decades when the couple met by happenstance.

“I was at his restaurant in Albany planning our 30th high school reunion, and when I saw Jeff, I was instantly in love,” Hughes says. “It was literally like a lightning bolt.” She and Barcomb have been together for 12 years, married for 7. n

• Video chat before meeting • Research their name on social media • If you agree to meet someone, tell a friend or family member where you are going • Meet in a public place • If something feels wrong, follow your instincts • Have your own transportation • Stay sober • Wait to share personal info • If someone asks for money, walk away

Cari Scribner of Ballston Spa has a published humorous novel about online dating after 50 titled A Girl Like You. The sequel, A Place Like This, will be released in November.

In the mood for big band music?

The World Famous

Glenn Miller Orchestra f

The Egg Performing Arts Center October 24 w w w. t h e e g g . o r g / ( 5 1 8 ) 4 7 3 - 1 8 4 5 24

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

Safety illustration: iStockphoto.com/Sergei Cherednichenko.

SAFETY TIPS FOR DATING IN TODAY’S WORLD

LIFESTYLE

TALES FROM AN ONLINE DATING WARRIOR Hi, I’m Cari, and I’m an online dating veteran.

something other than kayaking. Also, enter your desired age range, location and a couple other smaller My time-consuming, ego-stomping and endetails. tertaining journey began a few years ago Then, the search ensues. I must following my divorce. There are too have sent more than 200 messages many dating apps out there to to men with well-written profiles even mention, but suffice it to and photos that appeared ausay I was on most of them at thentic. one time or another—someMost were ignored (ouch) times simultaneously. but some ended up as first Being a writer, you’d dates.

I went bowling, played think penning a profile tennis (badly), hiked and would be simple. Not biked, had coffee, crepes, so! Profiles are designed ice cream, dinner or drinks. to make people seem I sat through one-sided conintriguing, intelligent, versations about annuities, unique and downright irfixing clothes dryers, motorresistible. Most of all, they cycle club trips and details have to make you stand out about family trees. from the crowd.

But I gritted my teeth, squared A bit of advice if you are Photo courtesy Cari Scribner. my shoulders and refused to give up. venturing into the rocky waters of My foray into online dating paid off big online dating: Write about interests time when I met my current serious signifiother than walks on the beach, kayaking cant other a year ago. and camping, because the majority of profiles list Online dating is not for the faint of heart. It is, ultithese as favorite activities. mately, for the hopeful at heart.

Upload a dozen photos, ideally showing you doing

Primary Care is Having More Time for Play.

It’s not always easy to get to the doctor these days, which is why we make connecting with your primary care provider fast and convenient through our patient portal. To get started, visit: HHHN.org

FALL 2022 | 55PLUSLIFEMAG.COM

25

LIFESTYLE

Keeping Your Relationship

FRESH How to get reacquainted with your partner and yourself

he kids have gone to college and are moving into adulthood. The nest is officially—and finally!—empty. It’s a time for rediscovering yourself and finally being able to do the things you and your partner have put off for all those years of child-rearing and career-pursuing and more.

There’s just one potential glitch: Who is that person staring at you across the kitchen table? Do you still have anything in common? And if you don’t, what can you do about it?

While you may feel alone in your discovery, the statistics suggest otherwise. According to Pew Research, the divorce rate for people in their 50s has nearly doubled over the past 25 years. Globally, the rates of so-called “gray divorce” are right now at their highest, according to Forbes.

Dr. Nicole Bromley, a psychologist at Albany Medical College, says routines are partially to blame for couples navigating lives side-by-side but not entirely engaged with each other. Couples often fall into domestic routines, splitting du-

26

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

ties and designating responsibilities around work and money management as they raise a family together. Once the kids aren’t there anymore, incongruence or general fatigue comes to the surface.

“Some people honestly adjust very well,” says Bromley “because they have a lot of other things going on in their lives. They might have a good social network or other family they spend time with, or maybe a lot of hobbies and interests, and for them it’s not that much of a loss to have those kinds of changes. For people that don’t have those systems already in place, it’s a lot more of a challenge.”

Couples often find that they’ve leaned on each other for support—that they are their primary sources of social, emotional and intellectual connection. Or they’ve fallen into a routine that doesn’t make sense anymore.

“We can have gender roles that stay in place and it’s posCONTINUES ON 28 

Photo: iStockphoto.com/Ridofranz.

T

BY BRIANNA SNYDER

Live Easy. Live Effortlessly. Live Every Moment.

EXPERIENCE THE ADVANTAGE

Choose from 27 Communities in the Capital Region TOWERS OF COLONIE

420 Sand Creek Road, Albany

518-459-7417 FENIMORE TRACE

At Tri City Rentals, offering superior customer service and an apartment you are proud to call home is how we serve you best. With over 50 years’ experience, residents can count on our knowledge and expertise to provide the ultimate living environment.

Whether it’s a new job opportunity in the area or you’re looking for a change of scenery, let Tri City Rentals open the door to your next home.

SHERIDAN APARTMENTS

Gerling St & Rosa Rd, Schenectady

518-377-2203 REGENCY PARK

LEASE YOUR NEW HOME TODAY 518-862-6600 13 Fenimore Trace, Watervliet

518-273-1981

tricityrentals.com info@tricityrentals.com

2120 Western Avenue, Guilderland

518-456-6331

LIFESTYLE CONTINUED FROM 26

• How do I want to spend my time?

• Are we on the same page about our future vision and goals?

• Are we compatible about our needs for affection and sex?

• Are we happy with the way we divide household roles and responsibilities?

• If we could rewrite our lives, would we still write them together?

• Who am I, who do I want to be?

These questions can be hard to answer and harder still to confront. But without tackling them, the two of you can be left guessing, judging, and misunderstanding each other.

“Whether it’s a lot of assumptions people have been making over the years or just the lifestyle changes that are happening, it’s a really good time to come together and reestablish the individual self and the couple and see where they want to go from there,” Bromley says. “And sometimes it doesn’t fit. For some people it’s not fixable and you realize you had a partner that was really good for a period of time in your life and may not be a good partner for another period of your life. And that realization can be a gift.” n

Photo: iStockphoto.com/Inside Creative House.

sible the woman in the couple was primarily taking care of the home and kids,” says Bromley. “Maybe both people in the couple are working and now things may feel more equal in terms of time, and therefore there may be a change in expectation when it comes to those kinds of at-home things.

Even with same-sex couples, there’s still those things that get negotiated through a relationship. Someone’s going to be a primary caretaker, maybe not all the time, but when the caretaking goes away, there’s a gap.”

Physical changes can also impact relationships at this life phase. Menopause, medical disruptions, deaths of parents and other traumas can all throw lives into major transition.

Bromley says sometimes physical impairments can literally get in the way of couples listening to each other.

“People with hearing loss can have really bad problems,” she says. “They start bickering because one can’t hear the other. That creates a huge barrier. So even things like physical changes that people might go through can lead to having to renegotiate and the realization that things aren’t going to stay the way they’ve always been. So you really need to evaluate where everybody is.”

Bromley emphasizes that all couples of all makeups and orientations experience turbulence in these transitional days.

So communication—and establishing your vision for yourselves as a couple—is more crucial now than ever.

The key to getting reacquainted in this life phase is to adjust your expectations. You’re not who you were 20 or 30 years ago. Your partner likely isn’t, either. Recognizing that you and your partner have each evolved over the years, Bromley says, is important to learning the ways in which you

can each support your independence now and your opportunities as a couple.

As we get older, our attitudes, ideals, tastes, sensitivities, and libido evolve, sometimes beyond recognition to ourselves or our partners. So it’s important to get on the same page about who you are now, in this moment. Asking questions—of ourselves and with our partner—can help provide guidance about next steps to take. Questions like:

28

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

HOME TO A NEW GENERATION — Craftsman Style Cottages—

Enjoy COTTAGE LIVING, designed for active, independent “55 and better” residents.

Life at The Spinney is more than a great home...it’s a COMMUNITY OF FRIENDS. Single-story, maintenance-free living with attached garages, patios and decks. Cottages offer modern conveniences… all completed with a charming and friendly community lifestyle.

AMENITIES INCLUDED AT POND VIEW:

• Pet Friendly • Cable & Internet • 24 Hour Maintenance • Front & Back Porches • Washer & Dryer in Unit • Community Activities • Attached Garages

• Snow Removal • Trash Removal • Water Usage • Community Gardens • 5000 Sq Ft Clubhouse • Pools

CALL

518-479-0800

FOR A TOUR TODAY! 2490 Pond View, Castleton-on-Hudson, NY 12033 Mon–Fri: 8–4pm TheSpinneyatPondView.com PondViewLeasing@TheSpinneyGroup.com

Warming Up Hot toddies for a cold weather win

30

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

FOOD & DRINK

BY BRIANNA SNYDER PHOTOS BY ZOÉ FISHER PHOTOGRAPHY

M

y first hot toddy was served to me on a winter night in an unceremonious mug containing hot water, Evan Williams bourbon and a squeeze of bar-top lemon. I’m not telling you this for sentimental reasons. I’m establishing that a hot toddy can be many things, and even in its most stripped-down form, it is so ultimately craveable.

We do have some consensus on the basic ingredients that make a hot toddy a hot toddy: hot liquid, strong dark-colored spirit, spices, and citrus. But what is the best—nay, perfect—combination of these things? It’s all about what you like.

The hot toddy originated in British-occupied India in the 1610s. The word “toddy” comes from the Hindi word “taddy,” which, according to Douglas Harper’s Etymology Dictionary, translates as “a drink made with fermented palm sap.” Eventually, it evolved to be defined as an alcoholic drink made with hot water, spices, and sugar.

These days, hot toddies are thought to be a balm for winter illness or maybe a sleepy fireplace nightcap. Either way, they’re pretty much synonymous with “cozy.”

We talked to two mixologists in the region—Rhys Bufford, head bartender at Wm. Farmer and Sons in Hudson, and Amanda Baker, bar manager at Nighthawks in Troy— and each had fairly different, but equally tasty, approaches to the drink.

“We make our hot toddies using fresh-squeezed lemon juice and house-made honey syrup,” Bufford says. They offer a choice of bourbon, rye, or Scotch, and they garnish the drink with a lemon wedge and grated cinnamon.

“I generally suggest using good-quality spirits, without breaking the bank,” Bufford says. “It’s helpful to keep the proof on the lower end, as heat increases our perception of alcohol. Save the bottled-in-bond and cask-strength expressions for sipping or cold cocktails.”

Baker has a different take: “This would be a good use for high-proof spirits,” she says. “They often have more intense flavors that stand up well in a hot toddy. Because the water CONTINUES ON 32 

FALL 2022 | 55PLUSLIFEMAG.COM

31

FOOD & DRINK CONTINUED FROM 31

dilution is much higher than a typical cocktail, weaker spirits can get lost. Also, chai spices tend to be very strong and can benefit from a high-proof spirit for the same reason.”

Both are strong arguments. Pick your poison.

For spirits, Baker also recommends modestly priced, but still good-quality, liquor. “I recommend a bourbon or rye, like Old Grand-Dad, Four Roses or Old Overholt.”

At Nighthawks, hot toddies are made with tea and chai syrup, allowing a more robust flavor of spices. n

NIGHTHAWKS HOT TODDY RECIPE • 1.5 ounces whiskey, like Old Grand-Dad, Four Roses or Old Overholt • ½ ounce chai syrup* • ½ teaspoon honey • 1 lemon slice • 1 Harney & Sons Earl Grey tea bag (or other Earl Grey tea) • Hot water • 1 cinnamon stick

Bring water to just below a boil, then steep tea to your liking. Add whiskey, syrup, honey, and a squeeze of lemon. Garnish with a cinnamon stick. Enjoy! *Chai syrup, according to the Spruce Eats food blog, is a simple syrup made with chai spices like ginger, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and black pepper, but can also include other aromatic spices, like fennel, coriander seeds, and vanilla.

WM. FARMER AND SONS HOT TODDY RECIPE ombine ingredients in a heatproof mug.

C Add hot water. Grate cinnamon over the top and garnish with a lemon wedge.

• ½ ounce fresh lemon juice • ½ ounce honey syrup* • 1.5 ounces spirits (bourbon, rye, or Scotch)

*Honey syrup is 3 parts honey, 1 part hot water.

Restaurant

Gift Shoppe • Apple Barn

in print and online

Find us on Facebook Badge

DELICIOUS FOOD

CMYK / .a

UNIQUE GIFTS

Eat and Shop in One Stop!

Serving Breakfast & Lunch Daily Open 7 Days a Week: 8:00 am–5:00 pm

(518) 399-8359

336 Schauber Road, Ballston Lake, NY 12019 LakesideFarmsCiderMill.com

32

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

55pluslifemag.com

FOOD & DRINK

Who’s Got the

Apple?

A trio of apple recipes to get you through fall and the holidays

Photo: iStockphoto.com/Nes.

RECIPES FROM JENNIFER SEGAL | ONCEUPONACHEF.COM

YES, AN APPLE A DAY MAY KEEP THE DOCTOR AWAY, but that doesn’t mean you only have to consume them individually. And in this season of apple picking and upcoming holidays, it’s always good to have a few good recipes on hand for those extras. Here are a few easy ones to satisfy all your apple needs.

STORY BEGINS ON 34 

FALL 2022 | 55PLUSLIFEMAG.COM

33

CONTINUED FROM 33

O L D - FA S H I O N E D B A K E D A P P L E S |

PREP TIME: 25 MINUTES

I N G RE DIE NT S • 6 baking apples, preferably Fuji or Gala • ½ cup (packed) dark brown sugar • ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon • ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg • ⅛ teaspoon salt • 1½ tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small chunks • 1½ cups apple cider or apple juice • 2 tablespoons brandy or bourbon (optional) • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, from 1 lemon • Vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)

34

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

|

COOK TIME: 45 MINUTES

|

INS TRU CT I O N S 1 Heat the oven to 350°F and set an oven rack in the middle position.

2 Using the smaller side of a melon baller or a sharp-edged measuring teaspoon, remove the core, leaving the bottom ½ inch of the apples intact. (Do not use an apple corer, as it’s hard to prevent the corer from going all the way through the apples.)

3 In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

4 Place the apples in a 2- to 2.5-quart baking dish (they should fit snugly). Spoon the

TOTAL TIME: 1 HOUR 15 MINUTES

brown sugar mixture evenly into the apples. Top each apple with a chunk of butter.

5 In a liquid measuring cup, combine the apple cider (or juice), brandy (if using), and lemon juice. Pour around the apples.

The liquid should come about 1 inch up the sides of the baking dish. Add more cider if necessary.

6 Bake for about 45 minutes, until the apples are tender when pierced with a sharp knife. Let cool for a few minutes, then carefully transfer the apples (and some of the cooking juices, if you like) to serving bowls. Serve with vanilla ice cream, if desired.

Photos courtesy of Once Upon a Chef.

SERVINGS: 6

FOOD & DRINK

BAKED APPLE FRENCH TOAST SERVINGS: 8

|

PREP TIME: 15 MINUTES

|

COOK TIME: 55 MINUTES

I N G RE DIE NT S

INS TRU CT I O N S

FOR THE FRENCH TOAST

FOR THE FRENCH TOAST

• One 1-pound challah or raisin challah • 5 large eggs • 1½ cups half-and-half • 3 tablespoons maple syrup • 2 tablespoons bourbon (optional; replace with apple cider or halfand-half if desired) • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • Heaping ¼ teaspoon salt FOR THE APPLE TOPPING

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter • 4 large Granny Smith apples, peeled and thinly sliced • ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons packed dark brown sugar • 6 tablespoons maple syrup • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon FOR SERVING

• Confectioners’ sugar and/or maple syrup

|

1 Butter a 9-by-13-inch or 3-quart baking dish. Slice the bread into ¾-inch-thick slices.

2 In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, maple syrup, bourbon, vanilla, and salt.

3 Dip each slice of challah into the custard mixture for about 5 seconds, then arrange in an overlapping pattern in the prepared baking dish. Be sure the entire bottom of the dish is covered with the bread. Pour any remaining custard over the bread. Set aside.

FOR THE APPLE TOPPING

4 In a large sauté pan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the apples, brown sugar, maple syrup, and cinnamon. Cook, stirring frequently, until the apples

TOTAL TIME: 1 HOUR 10 MINUTES

are softened and the sugar-syrup mixture is thickened, about 8 minutes. Spoon the apples and sugar-syrup mixture evenly over the bread, making sure not to leave any of the syrup behind. If not baking immediately, cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. Otherwise, proceed with the recipe.

5 Heat the oven to 350°F and set an oven rack in the middle position.

PUTTING IT TOGETHER

6 Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking until puffed and golden, about 20 minutes more.

Remove from the oven and, using a fine sieve, dust with the confectioners’ sugar. Serve with maple syrup.

RECIPES CONTINUE ON 37  FALL 2022 | 55PLUSLIFEMAG.COM

35

The Barnsider R E S TA U R A N T

480 Sand Creek Road, Albany, NY 12205 518-869-2448 •BarnsiderRestaurant.com

More

More Happy!

Delivering a delicate balance of superior food, service and atmosphere for over 40 Years!

Premium Steak & Seafood

Open Daily for

Lunch Dinner and

Take Out Voted

BEST JAPANESE RESTAURANT

in the Capital Region 611 Troy Schenectady Road Latham, NY sakelatham.com 518-785-7215

Open 7 Days a Week

5 6 1957 2022

YEARS

FOOD & DRINK

CONTINUED FROM 35

FLAVOR NOTE For the best flavor, use a combination of tart and sweet baking apples, such as Granny Smith, Honey Crisp, Gala, Jonagold, Jonathan, and Golden Delicious. (Don’t use all tart or all sweet, or the flavor won’t be balanced. I typically use 2 Granny Smiths, 2 Golden Delicious, and 1 Honeycrisp.

APPLE COBBLER SERVINGS: 6 to 8

|

PREP TIME: 30 MINUTES

I N G RE DIE NT S FOR THE APPLE FILLING

• 5 large baking apples (about 2½ lbs), peeled and sliced ¼-inch thick (see note) • ⅓ cup granulated sugar • ⅓ cup (packed) dark brown sugar • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon • 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces, plus more for greasing the pan

Photos courtesy of Once Upon a Chef.

FOR THE BISCUIT TOPPING

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour, spooned into measuring cup and leveled-off • 7 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided • 1¾ teaspoons baking powder • ¼ teaspoon baking soda • ¾ teaspoon salt • 1 stick (½ cup) cold unsalted butter, cut into small chunks • 1 cup buttermilk (see note)

|

COOK TIME: 45 MINUTES

FOR SERVING (OPTIONAL)

• Vanilla ice cream or sweetened whipped cream

INS TRU CT I O N S 1 Heat oven to 375°F and set an oven rack in the middle position. Grease an 8-inch square or 2-quart baking dish with butter.

2 Make the Apple Filling: In a large bowl, combine the apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Toss until the apples are evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and pat into an even layer. Dot with the 2 tablespoons butter.

3 Make the Biscuit Topping: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, 6 tablespoons of the sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the cold butter and smoosh with your fingers (or cut in with a pastry cutter) until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized clumps of butter within. Add the buttermilk and stir until just combined and

|

TOTAL TIME: 1 HOUR 15 MINUTES

evenly moistened. It will look lumpy; that’s good. Do not overmix.

4 Using a large spoon, dollop 8 to 10 spoonfuls of the biscuit batter over the apples, allowing the filling to show through in spots (most of the filling will be covered). Sprinkle the remaining tablespoon of sugar over the batter.

5 Bake until the fruit is bubbling and the top is golden, about 45 minutes (keep an eye on it during the last 10 minutes; if it looks like it’s getting too brown, cover it loosely with aluminum foil).

Let the cobbler cool for 15 to 20 minutes, then serve with vanilla ice cream, if desired.

MAKE-AHEAD INSTRUCTIONS:

The cobbler can be made one day ahead and kept, covered with foil, at room temperature. Reheat, covered with foil, in a 300°F oven for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and continue reheating for 15 to 20 minutes more, or until warmed through.

FALL 2022 | 55PLUSLIFEMAG.COM

37

FOR THE BEST SEASON OF YOUR LIFE

SARATOGA’S PREMIER ADULT LIVING COMMUNITY FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED Affordable pricing with no buy-ins • Washer/dryer in each apartment • Utilities included 4-star restaurant & bar • 24-hour maintenance services • Pet friendly … and much more!

CALL FOR A TOUR TODAY 100 Saratoga Blvd., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866 11 YEARS IN A ROW!

518-584-7766 • prestwickchase.com

TRAVEL

A Taste of

Tuscany Campiglia Marittima

is a hidden gem worth seeking out

G

BY ALISON & CHRIS MICHAEL

oogle “top spots to see in Tuscany” and you’re likely to get suggestions like Siena, Pisa and Florence.

What likely won’t come up is Campiglia Marittima—which is too bad. An ancient town that sits high in the hills of the Etruscan Coast, this off-the-beaten-path destination is not for the first- or even second-time traveler to Italy because it’s a little more difficult to get to. The beauty and Old World charm this town offers, however, outweigh any effort required to get there.

It had been a good 25 years since my last trip to Italy. This trip was going to take on a new meaning as I was returning to a place I had frequented as part of my previous career. Now I was taking a multigenerational vacation with my husband, our son, and my in-laws.

We stayed with a longtime family friend from Italy I met years ago while working in the textile industry, who now owns and runs a charming, Tuscan decorated four-bedroom, CONTINUES ON 40  FALL 2022 | 55PLUSLIFEMAG.COM

39

CONTINUED FROM 39

bed-and-breakfast named CivicoUno Campiglia in Campiglia Marittima.

Part of Tuscany’s Maremma region, Campiglia Marittima is located in the Province of Livorno, about an hour and a half southwest of Florence by car and just inland from the Mediterranean Sea. Surrounded by nature parks, this historical village perches high on the hill around the Gherardesca Castle overlooking a breathtaking view of the entire valley. Campiglia comes from the Latin campus, or “field.” In 1862 the word marittima (from Latin Maritima) was added to reflect its belonging to the Maremma, the area by the Tyrrhenian Sea. From the moment we arrived, I felt transformed to a place where time stands still. I lost track of time, and days blended into nights. It was authentic and real, a glimpse into what once was, what life used to be 2,000 years ago. By the second day there, neither my husband nor I knew what day it was, nor did we care—a true sign that we were on vacation!

Here are some highlights of this wonderful adventure, in case you want to visit. If you love Italy, I recommend you include this area on a future trip. It’s a place where you feel the magic of a true Tuscany gem.

Campiglia Marittima

This is a perfect destination for those who love the sea, beaches, nature, sport activities, and plenty of good food and wine. With a pace of life that encourages relaxation and unwinding, the area is close to a beautiful coast sprinkled with beaches as well many nearby small hilltop ancient villages just a short drive away. The area is full of cultural and landscape at-

40

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

TRAVEL

55+ Life publisher Alison Michael’s Italy adventure was a multigenerational trip with (pictured above, from left) her son Luke, husband Chris and in-laws Phyllis and Rod Michael, columnist for “The Vine.” Along the way they stayed at a B&B in Campiglia Marittima owned by family friends Luca and Simonetta Vitellozzi and spent time on the hidden beach gem Spiaggia di Fetovaia on the island of Elba.

tractions, and you can spend time mountain biking, trekking or just walking through the steep alleys and ancient narrow streets.

Don’t visit here expecting large American hotels. B&Bs and boutique hotels are more the norm. Nor will you find a lot of American tourists. Instead, Campiglia Marittima is filled with vacationing tourists from Germany and Switzerland, as well as other Italians. Come expecting an authentic immersion into Italian life that you will not experience in larger, tourist-crowded spots. While we were there, my husband and son took a bike ride through the old mining camps overlooking the Mediterranean, the vineyards and cork trees, the sunflower fields, olive trees and villages. My husband said it was a top 10 moment in his life.

Also high on the list of natural wonders during the summer months here: the incredible display of the migratory swifts as they zoom in and around the red-tiled rooftops for hours on end. These unique and highly aerial birds, migrating from South Africa, eat, sleep and drink while in flight. They make

a loud, high-pitched, chorus-like sound as they swoop acrobatically with magnificent grace across the morning and evening skies. A typical swift will fly four million miles in its lifetime, the equivalent of going to the moon and back eight times. They are a sight to behold.

Populonia

A small hamlet in Piombino, Populonia is an ancient walled city that overlooks the Baratti Gulf with beautiful views of the island in the Tuscan Archipelago. After a morning at the beach, dine alfresco under ancient olive trees at La Taverna Di Populonia, followed by a stroll along the main street for some shopping in wonderful local artisan shops.

Suvereto

Suvereto is home to many vineyards and wineries, most of which are open for tours and tastings all year round. We CONTINUES ON 42  FALL 2022 | 55PLUSLIFEMAG.COM

41

CONTINUED FROM 41

had the opportunity to take a late afternoon guided winery tour at Tenuta Casadei, a unique bio-integral wine-producing company that sits upon an expansive garden estate with vines surrounded by century-old trees, wild olives, maritime pines and picturesque hills. International grape varieties like petit verdot, cabernet sauvignon, muscat, syrah, mourvèdre, and grenache are grown here and used to make award-winning Suvereto DOCG red and white wines.

Dating back to before 1000, Suvereto is considered by some to be one of the most beautiful medieval villages in Italy and is located in the Maremma area of southern Tuscany. This village is a gem of ancient walls that protect its characteristic medieval streets, stone houses, historical buildings and churches. The rich landscape surrounding the area makes it ideal for growing cork oak trees, olive groves and vines. The name Suvereto, in fact, comes from sughero, which in Italian means cork oak.

As in much of Tuscany, Suvereto has many interesting historical sites, including the ruins of the ancient Rocca tower and the Suvereto Castle, built in the 10th century but taken over and heavily fortified by the Aldobrandeschi family. The Suvereto City Hall is in an impressive medieval building dating back to 1200. We dined in Suvereto in a courtyard directly next to the City Hall and were treated to a typical Tuscan meal of wild boar and local wines.

San Vincenzo

This local beachside town and vacation destination is a popular spot for water activities and dining. We ate at La Conchiglia, situated along a stretch of beach that extends eight miles along the Mediterranean sea. We were probably the only Americans—but with a little bit of Italian and lots of smiles, it was not difficult to navigate our way with the many locals enjoying their meals. We had a delicious lunch of fresh seafood while taking in the beautiful views of the islands in the Tuscan Archipelago.

Baratti Bay in Piombino

Also known as the Caribbean in Tuscany, the Gulf of Baratti is a patch of unspoiled nature between the Tyrrhenian and Ligurian seas, situated a stone’s throw from Piombino.

Since we had visited one of the local beaches in Piombino earlier that day, we skipped the beach. Instead we drove to a lovely seaport harbor called Porto di Baratti, or Port of Baratti, located on the far left end of the bay. We enjoyed Italian-style seafood at a waterfront restaurant called La Pergola. With a terrace overlooking the harbor, the restaurant was a wonderful spot to watch the sky turn from day to night in a beautiful sunset.

Below, the family on the grounds of Tenuta Casadei, a garden estate in Suvereto that produces organic wines.

Opposite page, from left: a medieval castle in Populonia; the Oratory of Santa Lucia, a 16th-century religious building that stands over a lake fed by the hot springs of Venturina Terme; and signs pointing to the village of Bolgheri.

IF YOU GO…

Bed-and-Breakfasts in Campiglia

CivicoUno Campiglia civicounocampiglia.it

Sesto Senso Suites

sestosensosuites.com

Il Canovaccio

locandailcanovaccio.it

Relais del Pievano relaisdelpievano.it

42

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

TRAVEL

Elba

An hour’s ferry ride from the mainland, Elba is the biggest island of the Tuscan Archipelago and the third largest in Italy after Sardinia and Sicily. The ferry ride was a great time to think about the island and imagine Napoleon exiled there, knowing that he saw all the same beauty that we were seeing. The island is filled with winding roads that climb mountains and hug high sea vistas. One spiaggia, or beach, destination of the many to explore on Elba is a hidden gem that few American tourists see called Fetovaia. This gorgeous beach has crystal-clear water and a stunning view. You can rent umbrellas, lounge chairs and head to the water. When we visited, many people were swimming, and we snorkeled the cove and enjoyed the natural beauty around us. It was a spectacular place and one that is worth experiencing.

Bolgheri, Castagneto Carducci

Tuscany is filled with beautiful and picturesque drives on roads lined with wineries, grapes growing in vineyards, and olive trees. The real gem is the cypress-lined road leading to the village of Bolgheri.

Upon entering the walls of the village you pass the church—every village has one, and we suggest you visit them CONTINUES ON 44  FALL 2022 | 55PLUSLIFEMAG.COM

43

TRAVEL

a peaceful hilltop just outside Venturina and features its own natural hot springs with waterfalls and a bathing area, as all as each is unique and filled with art and interesting arwell as hotel rooms and dining. Our bodies soaked up some chitecture. Bolgheri is a quaint village with many shops feamuch needed relaxation after all the walking and excursions turing local artisans and goods and of the week. We swam in the natural restaurants. We bought many gifts for waters and rejuvenated ourselves on friends and family, and every restauour last night in Tuscany. Afterwards rant looked so enticing it was hard to we ate at the on-site restaurant called choose where to eat. We tasted ribolAquolina, which sits on the terrace lita for the first time, a classic Tuscan overlooking the natural spring with a soup that we will be making at home view framed in the classic green hills this fall and winter. At the top of the of the Tuscan coast. Our meals were village is a spot to see the mountains delicious, made with seasonal, loand sea and snap some photos. cal fresh ingredients, and we sipped some of the many great wines from this region. All of us agreed that we Before heading out to Rome, we endwished we had come to this increded our time in Campiglia Marittima ibly relaxing place sooner, as it was at a lovely spa and resort called Calia most amazing all around experidario Terme Etrusche, one of several ence. As we left, we visited the small popular thermal springs located in the church on premises that overlooked heart of the Etruscan coast. The alkathe spa under the Tuscan stars, and line waters here are rich in sulfates we were left with a wonderful memSee more of the photos Alison and have been a popular destination ory and feeling as we headed back up and Chris Michael took on their vacation of a lifetime at since Etruscan and Roman times. the winding roads to Campiglia one 55pluslifemag.com.

Calidario Terme Etrusche is set on last time. n CONTINUED FROM 43

Venturina Terme

BEST

Farmers Market Maxim Emelyanychev of the

BEST

SCOTTISH CHAMBER ORCHESTRA

Downtown

OCTOBER 13

125th

Every Saturday from 9am-2pm troymarket.org

ANNIVERSARY SEASON

#ItsHereInRensselaer

www.renscotourism.com

NYSDED

®

PARTNER CONTENT

The Impact of Being a

Caregiver

BY BRIAN M. JOHNSON, MBA, CLTC | DIRECTOR, ADVISORS INSURANCE BROKERS

I

t’s no secret that Long-Term Care services such as Inhome care, Assisted Living, Memory Care and Skilled Nursing is expensive. Depending on the need, these costs can easily surpass $10,000 per month. The high cost means that not everyone will be able to get professional care. In those cases, who will provide care and what does that mean for those care providers? Today’s care environment is both a challenge for giving and receiving care. Whether by necessity or preference, care is often provided by loved ones (informal, unlicensed) at home.

According to “Long-Term Care in America: Americans Want to Age at Home” and a 2020 study by AARP, 88% of Americans would prefer to receive ongoing living assistance at home, 70% of people who provide care do so out of necessity, and 21% of Americans are currently caregivers. As the Baby Boom generation ages, these numbers are only going to increase.

The emotional impact of caregiving. According to “Caregiving in the U.S.,” AARP, 2020, 36% of caregivers report high emotional stress and more than half of caregivers report financial strain from caregiving. This includes an end or pause to saving for their own future, taking on more debt, using personal savings and paying bills late or sometimes not paying them at all. In 2018 report by the Harvard Business School, it’s estimated that if a caregiver is of working age, there is a 32% chance he/she will have to leave the workforce altogether due to their caregiving responsibilities. If a caregiver remains employed, his or her work often suffers as they are typically tired, stressed and not able to fully concentrate on their job.

So what are our solutions? There’s no “silver bullet” here, but there are tools that can help Americans finance their potential need for care so they’re not a burden to those they love.

MEDICARE AND MEDICAID Pros: It’s a government funded program.

Cons: The system is difficult to navigate and getting more

restrictive. Medicare generally only covers acute care on a short-term basis (less than 100 days). Medicaid typically pays for care in a nursing home and requires an individual to financially qualify.

PERSONAL SAVINGS / RETIREMENT ASSETS Pros: If care is never needed, assets remain intact, creating

a legacy for heirs.

Cons: If care is needed younger in life, there are steep penalties for accessing tax-deferred retirement accounts early. It can disrupt retirement plans or greatly impact a spouse’s standard of living if assets are needed to pay for care.

INSURANCE (LONG-TERM CARE AND HYBRID) Pros: These policies often have robust benefits to pay for

Long-Term Care services and will typically last longer than using one’s personal assets.

Cons: There are few companies offering such coverage, premiums are often cost prohibitive for most Americans, premiums in many cases are not guaranteed and qualifying medically for coverage can be difficult.

HOME HEALTHCARE PLANS Pros: These policies are a new innovation in planning and

act as more of a subscription-based plan, like AAA. There’s no medical underwriting, premiums are much more affordable than Long-Term Care insurance and subscribers get up to a maximum of 10,000 hours of home healthcare.

Cons: These policies only pay for home healthcare. If assisted living or nursing home is needed, these plans do not pay.

So where do you go from here? Many of us have experienced the impacts of care firsthand. Whether it’s seeing the financial cost of care for a family member or witnessing the strain put on a friend caring for a loved one, the care crisis is all around us. The question is: what will we do about it? There are options, but one size does not fit all. To learn more, call our office and ask for our FREE planning guide, 518-688-8154.

To request a free copy of the home healthcare plan consumer guide, please reach our to our office:

ADVISORS INSURANCE BROKERS • (518) 688-8154 • bjohnson@advisorsib.com

MONTREAL!

Oui, Oui

A taste of Europe is just a short drive away

BY SHERYL NANCE-NASH

46

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

W

ant to experience a taste of Europe without jumping on a plane? The magic of Montreal, with its combination of Old World charm and hip, cosmopolitan chic, is just a few hours’ drive up the Northway.

The 380-year-old city that is home to nearly 2 million is the second largest French-speaking city in the world. (Don’t worry if you don’t speak French; English is spoken everywhere.) Montreal also has the highest number of restaurants per capita in Canada, and in North America is second only to New York City. In other words, leave your diet plan at home. With restaurants featuring the cuisines of Algeria, France, Haiti, Iran, Italy, Korea, Lebanon, Morocco, Portugal, Thailand, Tibet, Vietnam and more, visiting Montreal can be a mini global cuisine tour.

Old Montreal and Old Port are must-see parts of any visit, with blocks of narrow, cobblestone streets reminiscent of Europe. One of the top spots to visit is Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal, a Gothic Revival-style church whose beauty is renowned. You can take a tour of the church alone, but it would be a mistake not to also try to take in AURA, a multimedia extravaganza video, light and music show that defies description. The show occurs twice daily in the evening.

Tickets are available for the church or show individually or as packages.

Photo: iStockphoto.com/R.M. Nunes.

TRAVEL

To get another perspective of Old Port, consider checking it out from the air—specifically zip lining via the MTL Zipline. The zip line, which is 1,200 feet, gives a bird’s-eye view of Bonsecours Island.

Saint-Paul and de la Commune streets in Old Montreal are home to historic buildings as well as boutiques, restaurants and nightclubs. The Pointe-à-Callière Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History Complex is the perfect place to get familiar with Montreal’s history. Located on the site where Montreal was founded, it includes a glass floor overlooking the remains of Fort Ville-Marie as well as traces of an Aboriginal hearth. The museum also features new exhibits annually.

Walking tours, of which there are many options, are another way to explore Montreal. Take a historic tour through Old Montreal or consider a nighttime ghost walking tour. Art lovers might consider the two-hour street art tour along Montreal’s Saint Laurent Boulevard to enjoy over 100 works of art.

Need an arts fix? Downtown Montreal offers plenty of action as well, from the theater to the symphony. The cultural epicenter is the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts in downtown with concerts, events and shows.

VENTURE INTO THE NEIGHBORHOODS

Montreal has vibrant, unique neighborhoods full of person-

ality and worthy of visits. Mile-End, with its bookstores, cafes and murals, is reminiscent of Brooklyn’s hip Williamsburg section. Plateau-Mont-Royal is more bohemian, featuring colorful houses with outdoor staircases, vintage shops, boutiques, and great finds like cool $5 earrings, scarves and more. With the plethora of restaurants and coffee shops, you won’t go hungry.

For an artistic vibe, check out Mont-Royal, home to many of the city’s artists. Mont-Royal Park features 400 acres of park space and 600 acres of cemetery. In the winter, it’s a prime locale for ice-skating, and in the warmer months, cycling and jogging. The Outremont neighborhood is all about mega mansions, with parks and upscale shopping.

Saint Laurent Boulevard is the place to be and be seen for shopping, dining and profiling in this fashion-conscious city. Saint Denis Street is home to some of Quebec’s homegrown designers’ clothes, while Laurier and Bernard avenues are for all things French—clothes, gourmet shops, bakeries and more.

Other gems to check out include Ex-Voto in Little Italy where you can find candles, jewelry, and vintage clothing; and Boutique Stockmarkt, a shop in Little Burgundy that carries quality seconds, like last season’s to-die-for items. If CONTINUES ON 48  FALL 2022 | 55PLUSLIFEMAG.COM

47

TRAVEL

 The AURA experience at Notre-Dame Basilica.

Photo: Moment Factory CONTINUED FROM 47

you want some quiet time, Place Kate-McGarrigle, a small park and public square near Querbes Avenue on Laurier Avenue, is a good place to chill. The PHI Centre is a VR (virtual reality) cinema where reality, artistry and surprises come together for a unique experience.

No need to rent a car when visiting Montreal. You can go just about everywhere on the Metro, by taxi or by renting a bike. Nor do you need to worry about visiting Montreal in the winter. Life bustles in its Underground City with more than 1,000 stores, spas, restaurants, and movie theaters all located underground.

WHERE TO EAT

In a city of thousands of restaurants, how do you begin to choose where to eat? Taking a food tour to get a rich sampling of the good eats is one option. Here are some favorites to consider as well. Fleurs et Cadeaux (1002 Rue Saint-Urbain) serves up Japanese cuisine in a former flower and gift shop. Feast on temaki (hand-rolled sushi), creative bento boxes, artisanal sakes, natural wine and more.

For more than 40 years L’Express (3927 Saint Denis St.) has been one of the city’s go-to French bistros. Try the steak tartare, duck foie gras, chicken liver pate, grilled salmon, frites and other French delights. Like wine? The collection has some 11,000 bottles.

Moccione (7495 Saint Denis St.) is a favorite for Italian food. It was the Eater Montreal Restaurant of the Year in 2019. The gnocchi and tiramisu are among the dishes that get rave reviews.

In Old Montreal, consider Monarque (406 Rue Saint-

48

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

Jacques), known for its lobster thermidor, escargot, and fish and seafood bouillabaisse. Toqué! (900 Pl. Jean-PaulRiopelle) keeps a spot on the Top 10 in Canada’s 100 Best list. Order the scallop ceviche, heirloom tomatoes with goat cheese, almonds, currant dressing and basil or the duck confit and you’ll know why. Joe Beef (2491 Notre-Dame St. W), beloved by Anthony Bourdain, is another must-eat restaurant. The lobster spaghetti and foie gras are winners.

WHERE TO STAY

This November, Hyatt Centric Hôtel Gare Viger (621 Notre-Dame St. E) opens in the historic Place Gare Viger that was built in 1898 in the traditional British railway hotel style.

Anticipate stately rooms and lounging on the rooftop pool in the heart of Old Montreal.

Vogue Hotel Montreal Downtown (1425 Rue de la Montagne) is newish to the hotel scene. It’s on the elegant Golden Square Mile, near shops, museums, and parks.

The Ritz-Carlton, Montreal (1228 Sherbrooke St. W) is the only AAA Five Diamond property in Quebec. A bonus is the restaurant Maison Boulud on-site, and pets are allowed at the hotel.

The stylish Hotel William Gray (421 Rue Saint-Vincent), in a former 18th century greystone in Old Montreal, is another option. Everything about it is chic and sophisticated.

Also high on the elegant meter is Hotel Place d’Armes (55 Rue Saint-Jacques), situated in four 19th century neoclassical buildings across from the Notre-Dame Basilica, and near the Old Port. I felt like royalty staying there. Enjoy the spa and the rooftop terrace for panoramic city views. n

f ity

o

o Ac

m

n u m

ll ra

!

a

s ge

From ROCKS to BLOCKS...

Christmas Trees*

WE CARRY IT ALL!

and everything you need to deck your halls

Pumpkins, Mums & Fall Decor

*Arriving in November

Mums available NOW

Everything you need for

Fall Cleanup and

Bark Mulch Topsoil Delivery Retaining Wall Brick Paving Stones Natural Wall Patio Stone Decorative Stone Fabrics • Edgings Tools • Supplies

Like us on Facebook Visit Hewitts.com for hours & locations

Hewitt’s Garden Club Card We’ve given away over $1,000,000!

Stop in and sign up today

Landscape Winterization • Lawn winterizer • Burlap • Shrub protectors • Rose cones • Fall feeding products and more!

DePaul Housing Management Communities for Seniors www.depaulhousing.com

A Place You’ll Love... to Call Home!

Awesome Move-In SPECIALS!

1 Bedroom Apartments Fully Accessible Always Accepting Professionally Managed Pet Friendly Applications Maintenance Free Smoke-Free!

• 1 Bedroom Apartments 14 Communities No More Laundry• Facilities Fully Accessible in 5 Counties Maintenance on Site Managed • Professionally

A Place You’ll Love… to Call Home!

SeasonsSupply.com Malta, NY 2706 State Rt. 518-581-2900

Rexford, NY 852 Grooms Rd. 518-371-5730

Headaches • Pet Friendly Applications • Maintenance Free 14 Communities • Smoke-Free! No More Maintenance • in Laundry Facilities 5 Counties on Site Headaches Always Accepting

518-389-6335

518-389-6335

(Age & Income Restrictions Apply)

www.depaulhousing.com Check Out Our New Online Photos!

50

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

TTY #711

HOME & GARDEN

Decorating with

Houseplants Tips from the pros on greening up your home

BY REBECCA GATTO

Photo: iStockphoto.com/elenaleonova.

T

he way we decorate our homes can influence our emotions, our self-expression, and even our health.

But it can be hard to know how to make an interior space truly sparkle. Adding houseplants, professionals say, is one of the simplest and most effective ways to elevate a space from almost-right to absolutely perfect.

Jessica Caccamo knows what it’s like to agonize over a room’s design—she remembers when her bedroom, in particular, had her stumped. After spending hours choosing and hanging the perfect full-length mirror, she expected to be ecstatic, but something still wasn’t right.

“I hung it up and I thought, I don’t know,” she recalls. “It just feels a little bit dead.”

Luckily for Jessica, her mom, Lynda, has more than 25 years of experience in the design world. “Mom was like, ‘You

just need some plants,’” Jessica says. After placing a leafy ZZ Plant (short for zamioculcas zamiifolia) on a stand and a smaller plant nearby on the floor, the area was completely transformed.

Today, Jessica and Lynda, aged 35 and 63 respectively, have created an interior design firm that helps others transform their houses into stylish oases. Branded as JL Caccamo Design, they work with homeowners, renters, real estate agents, and people looking to downsize their homes. Their goals are to create spaces that are functional, comfortable, and beautiful—and they rarely leave a space without adding a houseplant or two.

“It’s a great way to bring that natural element into your home and really make your home look loved and cared for,” Lynda says.

CONTINUES ON 53  FALL 2022 | 55PLUSLIFEMAG.COM

51

Enjoy Instant Shade & Comfort All Summer and SAVE $350!

Enjoy Instant Shade & Comfort All Summer Call Now - SaleEnds Ends 7/31/21 and SAVE $350!

Call Now - Sale 7/31/2020 Keeping cool and comfortableCall this summer just evenEnds more affordable!

Right now you can get a $350 discount, Call Now -gotSale Ends 7/31/21 Now - Sale 7/31/2020

A Christmas Tradition

good toward any SunSetter Lateral Arm more Awning - America’s #1 now best you selling - thediscount, smarter Keeping cool and comfortable thisRetractable summer just got even affordable!

Right canawning get a $350 choiceArm for your deck or patio. #1 best selling awning - the smarter good toward any SunSetter Retractable Lateral Awning - America’s A SunSetter makes your life out-doors choice more enjoyable by keeping for your deck or patio.your deck up to 20 degrees cooler. It opens and closesmakes easily your in under 60 seconds, providing instant protection against hottosun, light showers, 99% of A SunSetter life out-doors more enjoyable by keeping your deck up 20 degrees cooler.and It opens harmful UVeasily rays. in Keeps your home cooler by blocking sun fromagainst windows With a SunSetter, you’ll and closes under 60 seconds, providing instantthe protection hotand sun,sliders. light showers, and 99% of neverUV have to Keeps worry about the weather your the outdoor planswindows again. Turn deck or patio into your own harmful rays. your home cooler ruining by blocking sun from andyour sliders.

With a SunSetter, Summer Things to Do... you’ll never have to worry about the weather ruining your outdoor plans again. Turn your deck or patio into your own

ur joy o ce!” n e e en Com Experi nta “Sa

403 West Main Street • Amsterdam, New York 12010 403 West Main Street Amsterdam, New York 12010 Summer•Things to Do...

• Balsam & Fraser Fir Christmas Trees • Handmade Wreaths • Kissing Balls • Christmas Shop • Santa and Reindeer

PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION AVAILABLE

K K A SunSetter makes your life out A SunSetter makes your life out Retractable harmful UV rays. Keeps your home cooler by blocking the sun from windows and sliders. With a•SunSetter, you’ll Awnings neverUV have to Keeps worry about the weather your the outdoor planswindows again. Turn or patio into your own Awnings Retractable harmful rays. your home cooler ruining by blocking sun from andyour sliders.

With a•SunSetter, you’ll •deck Springs, Cables & Sections Replaced vacation spot - help cut your conditioning bills - Turn and & save $350, too.

•plans Residential Commercial Garage Doors & Openers • Carriage House Doors never have to worry about the weather ruining yourair outdoor again. your deck or patio into your own • now.

Springs, Cables & Sections Replaced wning sale • High-Speed Doors vacation spot - help cut your air conditioning bills -•and save $350, too.

• Residential & Commercial Garage Doors &Cables Openers • Carriage House Doors Retractable Awnings • Springs, & Sections Replaced Fr wning sale now.

• High-Speed Doors • Retractable Awnings • Springs, Cables & Sections Replaced • Loading Dock Equipment • High-Speed Doors • Loading Dock Equipment Fr

SALES - INSTALLATION - SERVICE SALES - INSTALLATION - SERVICE

• Loading Equipment • High-Speed Doors Dock • Loading Dock Equipment

Nursery & Garden Center 1227 West Galway Road, Hagaman NY Call for hours • 518-627-4260 • bobstrees.com

www.AmsterdamOverheadDoorCompany.com www.AmsterdamOverheadDoorCompany.com www.AmsterdamOverheadDoorCompany.com www.AmsterdamOverheadDoorCompany.com

CRAFTSMAN STYLE RENTAL COTTAGES

Bill Gutowski, Owner - Commercial Sales

A 55+ ACTIVE, ADULT COMMUNITY

1 Floor Living • Attached Garages Cable & Internet • 24 Hour Maintenance Private Porches & Patios Washer & Dryer in Unit Trash Removal NEW COTTAGES Pet Friendly COMING SOON!

CALL 518-689-0162 TODAY to schedule a tour!

The Spinney at Van Dyke • Open Mon-Fri: 8 AM - 4 PM 6 Parker Mathusa Place, Delmar, NY 12054 TheSpinneyatVanDyke.com • VanDykeLeasing@TheSpinneyGroup.com

52

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

HOME & GARDEN

CONTINUED FROM 51

Photos: iStockphoto.com. From top: Liudmila Chernetska; svetikd; OlgaMiltsova.

D

enise Maurer, a master gardener in Rensselaer County, agrees wholeheartedly that plants can work wonders for any home. In fact, she’s proudly cared for a ficus she purchased on her honeymoon for 43 years—a feat that many new plant parents can hardly fathom. The secret, she says, is to learn a little about your houseplants’ origins.

“The one basic rule of maintaining plants is to try to maintain the same growing conditions they experience outside,” she says. For example, spiky succulents need lots of sun and not too much water, and therefore thrive best near a southern or western window. Ferns, orchids, and other plants that naturally occur in the undergrowth of shady forests can thrive with less sun—although they can’t be completely in the dark.

“I always stress that they do need a source of light,” Maurer says. “It’s only going to be a slow death if you don’t give the basic needs.” (Want to learn more? Maurer’s class, Houseplants 101, is available for free on the Troy Public Library’s YouTube page.)

Maurer adds that plants can also clean the air they interact with. She recalls inheriting one houseplant from a smoker, and when she treated the roots with clean water, it leached brown tar for three days—toxins that were captured when they were removed from the previous owner’s indoor air.

In short, filling your space with plants can be a nice way to bring visual interest, texture, and life to the space, all while giving a boost to your mental and physical health.

As Jessica of JL Caccamo Design says, “When in doubt, try a plant!” n

BEGINNER-FRIENDLY PLANTS The following houseplants can be kept in indirect sunlight. Make sure to research how frequently your plants need to be watered.

Small, bushy plants

• Boston fern • Pothos (also knows “devil’s ivy” due to its seeming impossibility to kill) • Peace lily • Spider plants

Larger, vertical plants • Sansevieria (also known as “mother-in-law’s tongue”) • Ficus • Rubber tree • Monstera • Snake plants

CONTINUES ON 54  FALL 2022 | 55PLUSLIFEMAG.COM

53

HOME & GARDEN CONTINUED FROM 53

DECORATING TIPS FROM THE PROS

Consider light

“If you want a houseplant to bring life to your space, the worst thing you can do is put a houseplant in a place where it’s going to die,” Jessica says. “You really have to consider the natural light conditions you have in your home.”

Supplementing with a grow light is one solution for poorly lit rooms. It doesn’t need to be anything too fancy. Maurer has kept her ficus alive for more than four decades, partly by adding an inexpensive utility lamp from a hardware store that she hooked up to a timer. It shines on the little tree for six hours each day, keeping it healthy.

Pay close attention

It’s OK if you’re not sure exactly where a new plant should be placed; just keep an eye on it to see whether it succeeds.

54

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

Even with a good deal of experience, Jessica Caccamo says she nearly killed a rubber tree that wasn’t getting the right amount of light. “We moved it to a new spot and it’s just been thriving ever since with really minimal care,” she says.

ety of heights, sizes, and textures adds a professional-looking touch to any room. Try using a plant stand to add some height until you feel confident enough to add something larger (and more expensive).

Group your plants

It’s OK to cheat a little

Maurer says placing plants together, near a window, will make sure they all get enough light—but it does more than that. “Grouping plants is very important because they support each other,” she says. When multiple houseplants share a space, they create a microclimate that helps them all to thrive.

Vary the size

Arranging houseplants in a group is great for the health of your greenery, but it’s also good design. Using a vari-

Jessica says she uses a mix of fake and real plants in her home. For example, she put a faux snake plant in a dark corner. Not only would a real one not get enough light, but she worried that her cat would chew a real one—and snake plants can be toxic to pets. Just remember to dust the impostors now and then. “If you have to go up and touch it to see if it’s the real deal, that’s a good test,” Lynda Caccamo says. The mother-daughter design team recommends afloral.com for realistic-looking faux houseplants.

Discover Forest Grove & Waite Meadows New single-family homes & twin homes

This amazing new-home community has something for everyone with homes ranging from luxury, twin homes to a variety of single-family homes, all located on heavily wooded lots. When completed, Forest Grove will offer more than 300 homes and a breadth of amenities, such as a fully furnished clubhouse, a massive fitness center, a beautiful outdoor pool, pickle-ball, and more.

Conveniently located just off of Route 146 in Clifton Park, Waite Meadows is an exclusive new 34- home community happily situated in the country. Located just a short drive from downtown and the Northway, Waite Meadow’s quiet, picturesque setting is minutes away from great shopping and dining.

Designed to encourage residents to get outdoors, Forest Grove features sidewalks, street lamps, a dog park and several miles of walking trails, some paved for strollers, bicycles and easy walking and others that are natural forest floors. Over 300 acres of open space, donated by Belmonte Builders to the Town of Wilton, makes these trails possible.

A welcoming boulevard and three large estate lots greet you as you enter Waite Meadows. Large lots, public water and sewer, extensive green space, a dedicated walking trail, street lights and access to the renown Shenendehowa school district make this beautiful community the perfect place to call home.

• Homes in all sizes with many options to choose from • Saratoga Springs address, low Wilton taxes • Saratoga Schools • Five minute drive to downtown Saratoga Springs • A beautiful community with amenities for all ages • Homes starting in the $500’s

• • • •

For more information, contact Sharon Byrne 518-527-4914 or sharon@belmontebuilders.com

•

Community walking trail & green space Shenendehowa Schools Great location, close to downtown Clifton Park Variety of floor plans in our Portfolio and Prestige series of homes Homes starting in the $600’s For more information, contact Spencer Lewis 518-512-9646 or spencer@belmontebuilders.com

To learn more about Belmonte Builders’ Communities and Floor Plans, visit: www.belmontebuilders.com In neighborhoods with a Homeowner's Association, Homeowners will be subject to all HOA covenants and design guidelines and will be required to pay HOA dues. For complete details see your sales representative.

Roads were made for journeys.

Looking to make a statement in your kitchen in 2022?

The appliance experts at Marcella’s Appliance Center are here for you, featuring the area’s best and largest selection of in-stock appliances from your favorite brands.

Get started on the kitchen of your dreams today.

Shop in-store, by phone or online at www.marcellasappliance.com.

Two Convenient Locations: Schenectady Showroom 560 Broadway Schenectady, NY 12305 (518) 381-1957

Clifton Park Showroom Shoppers World 15 Park Ave. Clifton Park, NY 12065 (518) 952-7700 Since 1957

56

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

HOME & GARDEN

Repair or Replace?

What you need to know about the lifespan of your appliances

BY CAITLIN MANNER

Artwork: iStockphoto.com. Repair worker, AndreyPopov; icons: Peacefully7.

N

ew appliances can feel like a fresh start, but they can also be a huge investment, one many of us typically put off as long as possible. Most major home appliances have a lifespan between 10 and 15 years. So how do you know when you need to replace something, as opposed to getting it repaired? We talked to Alan Ayers of Crisafulli Bros.

Home Services and Gary Cornwell of Cornwell Appliance, both in Albany, to get the scoop on how to tell the difference.

Cornwell Appliance has been in business since 1948, while Crisafulli Bros. was established in 1939. When the appliance was built is a critical marker, says Cornwell. Many older appliances were designed to last, or at least to be something relatively easy to repair. You can’t really say the same about the newest iterations, says Cornwell, who has been in the family business for as long as he can remember. “It’s sad, really. If you remember years ago, you know, my parents had their washing machine for 20, 30 years,” he says. “But now,

for the quality they make for $599, they call me within a year on the new ones.”

Ayers agrees, citing hot water heaters as just one example. “Hot water heaters used to last a lot longer, but over the past few years the lifespan has decreased significantly. That happened for a number of reasons, but now they need to be replaced much, much sooner than they used to, like every seven years or so. We as consumers are at fault, really, because we want to cut costs and save money, so the products just aren’t built as well,” he says.

So the question remains: When do you repair a major appliance versus replace it? Cornwell offers this advice: When you start to notice something is off—such as a strange new sound or your water bill creeping up—it’s time to call an expert. Get an estimate for a repair, and then follow the 50/50 rule. If the appliance is more than halfway through its typical lifespan, and it will cost half as much to repair as to replace CONTINUES ON 59 

FALL 2022 | 55PLUSLIFEMAG.COM

57

Awarded Best Tincture & Topical 2019

Family Owned

We Buy and Sell: Gold • Silver • Coins Diamonds • Estate Jewelry and More!

Sold exclusively at

Loudonville

Kimberly Square (518) 512-3033

Clifton Park

Clifton Park Center (518) 982-0015

Shop Online!

Lake Placid

2420 Main St. (518) 837-5104

1717 western ave., albany, ny 12203 • 518-459-6331 check our website for hours

CDPHP Makes Choosing the Right Medicare Plan Easy ®

Open enrollment for Medicare Advantage is October 15, 2022 through December 7, 2022. f $0 primary care physician office visits f $0 mail order prescriptions on hundreds of medications f In-home support for companionship, help around the house, transportation, and more f Up to $75 in over-the-counter (OTC) health supplies from CVS f Vision and dental benefits with all plans

For more details call (518) 641-3400 or 1-888-519-4455 (TTY/TDD: 711) or visit www.cdphp.com/medicare. † Our hours are 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. seven days a week from October 1 - March 31. From April 1 - September 30, Monday – Friday, our hours are 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. A voice messaging service is used weekends, after-hours, and federal holidays.

Calls will be returned within one business day.

CDPHP is an HMO and a PPO with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in CDPHP Medicare Advantage depends on contract renewal.

Capital District Physicians’ Health Plan, Inc. | CDPHP Universal Benefits,® Inc. Y0019_23_22262_M

58

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

116261_4

HOME & GARDEN CONTINUED FROM 57

it, just replace it. Or at least, that is true about any appliance bought within the last decade or so. If it’s one of those solid workhorses from a previous generation, you could have a good shot at a lasting fix, Cornwell says.

As with many objects, the best way to save money is to focus on maintenance. The cost of a technician coming to diagnose a problem can seem prohibitive, but a few small fixes over the years is still cheaper than buying a new appliance every time an issue develops.

Cornwell says that one of the most common problems he sees is refrigerators straining to keep things cold, especially in the summertime. Sometimes, it’s an easy fix you can do yourself. “You should periodically take the grill off the front of the fridge, at the very bottom. It’ll pop right off and you can see that it’s loaded under there with dust and lint and pet hair,” he says. “That’s gonna burn the motor compressor out, because

the air can’t get through. It’ll save you $500, doing that quick maintenance instead of having to replace a whole motor.”

W

ith some appliances, keeping track of when you last replaced the item is another important step. Water heaters, for example, will need replacing regularly and a lot sooner than you may think. Waiting for a water heater to fail before taking any action can end up costing you more, as a burst tank causes a big mess and costly cleanup. Ayers says people should “start budgeting for a replacement after about seven years, which may feel really quick—but waiting for much longer will cause issues.”

Ayers recommends that people—particularly those 55 years and older, who may not have a house full of people anymore—opt for the tankless option when replacing their water heaters. “They do require a little bit more maintenance, but the energy savings and efficiency will end up saving you money and last a few years longer as well.” n

#

WHETHER TO REPLACE OR REPAIR AN APPLIANCE depends a bit on the appliance itself. Here’s a cheat sheet for weighing your decisions.

• MICROWAVES are relatively affordable, so it’s usually cheaper to replace one than to pay to have it repaired.

The same goes for coffee makers and other smaller kitchen appliances.

Illustrations: iStockphoto.com/LueratSatichob.

• DISHWASHERS should have a lifespan of about 10 years, but the level of cleanliness they can achieve will slowly decline over time. If yours starts making loud noises, leaking, or emitting a funny smell, it’s time to call in a technician for an evaluation.

• STOVES AND OVENS typically should last up to 15 years, or even longer in the case of gas ranges. That said, you shouldn’t take any chances with anything that can catch fire. Many stoves and ovens come with warranties, and it could be well worth your time to pay for parts and labor rather than invest in a whole new setup.

• REFRIGERATORS are a necessity, and if they’re not working properly it can end up costing you a fortune in spoiled food. Most models should last up to 13 years, but many will develop some common problems over time.

Changes to look for include visible condensation, excessive noise, frost buildup in the freezer, and whether or not the back of the refrigerator is hot to the touch.

• WASHERS AND DRYERS should also last about a decade, but it’s easy to tell when they aren’t working well anymore. For the washer, call a technician if there is water leaking on the floor, excessive noise, or if water no longer fills the drum. For dryers, call someone if the clothes aren’t drying, or if there is a burning smell when it’s in use. Dryers are another appliance that you don’t want to take chances with, because they are one of the most common causes of house fires.

• WATER HEATERS are tougher to gauge. Generally, they last 10 years or so, but if you’re noticing a problem odds are that it’s time for replacement. Problem signs include leaks under the water tank, water discoloration or odor, weird sounds, or an inability to maintain a steady temperature.

• FURNACES OR FORCED-AIR SYSTEMS have an average lifespan of about 15-20 years, depending on maintenance and usage. Typically, signs they are nearing their expiration date include poor air quality in the home (excess dust or humidity), rising energy bills, odd noises, and needing frequent repairs for malfunctions.

FALL 2022 | 55PLUSLIFEMAG.COM

59

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Putting Your Best Foot

forward How to keep those tootsies in top shape

BY BRIANNA SNYDER

I

t’s easy to take our feet for granted—especially in our younger years—but as we get older, they can be just one more source of discomfort and pain as ligaments slacken and muscles lose their elasticity.

A 2016 study reported in U.S. News & World Report found that foot pain affects 1 in 4 adults after age 45. In at least two-

thirds of those cases, that pain can be debilitating. And that can be dangerous: U.S. News also reports that foot pain in older adults is associated with a 62 percent increased risk of recurrent falls, according to a study in a 2017 issue of Gerontology.

Here are a few things to look out for—and get ahead of—as your feet enter their 50s and beyond.

PLANTAR FASCIITIS What it is: “One thing that we see a lot in older folks is plantar fasciitis,” says Dr. Steven Lam of Capital Region Foot Care in Albany. As we get older, we lose tightness in the muscles of our feet and the fascia, a ligament located at the bottom of the foot, can become more easily inflamed. You might experience this as heel pain or arch pain, which are the early signs of plantar fasciitis.

60

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

What to do: Stretch, stretch, stretch. “You can easily take care of plantar fasciitis discomfort by stretching,” Lam says. Grab your toes, for example, and pull them up. While sitting on a chair, step your foot onto a water bottle or a foam roller (or anything else firm and cylindrical) and roll your foot back and forth on top of it. For particularly uncomfortable days, a frozen water bottle or soda can may provide even more relief and help reduce swelling.

BUNIONS What it is: A bunion may look and feel like a growth, but it’s

actually the result of your bones migrating inward. “Bunions are a progressive disorder,” says Lam. “The big toe starts to drive closer to the second toe, then the bone behind it starts to drive in the opposite direction.” That can cause an uncomfortable protrusion on the inner side of your foot that’s easily irritated by tight or ill-fitting shoes.

What to do: Bunions can be genetic and they can also result from certain types of shoes or foot gear. Dress shoes can exacerbate things, as can shoes that aren’t wide enough. “Our feet tend to swell by the end of the day,” Lam says. “So shoes that fit earlier in the day may not fit anymore by 3, 4, 5 in the afternoon.” So make sure your shoes fit you well, and offer a little room for longer days on your feet.

“In some instances, bunions can be painful enough that they require surgical removal,” Lam says. If that sounds familiar, it might be a good idea to consult your doctor or podiatrist.

Embracing Innovation to Improve Care and Provide

Peace of Mind

At The Pines at Glens Falls, we know that providing exceptional care requires superior technology. The introduction of Circadia Health’s Contactless Remote Patient Monitoring System allows our teams to enhance the level of care our residents receive.

Artwork: iStockphoto.com. Photo: Ridofranz; illustrations: 3xy.

The symptoms of many illnesses such as pneumonia, bronchitis, COVID-19, and UTIs can be detected 2-3 days earlier by utilizing this remote technology that is placed in every patient room.

The FDA-approved system is supported by a panel of clinicians who analyze the data and medical records for each patient to look for patterns. It alerts our staff members when changes in condition occur.

INGROWN TOENAILS What it is: While people of all ages may have to contend with

an ingrown nail at some point in their lives, older people are more prone to them. Caused by snug-fitting shoes or trauma (say you stub your toe in the middle of the night, sending your nail digging into the skin of your toe), ingrown nails can be quite painful and difficult to treat on your own, especially because toenails grow thicker as we age, and bending down to tend to them may be more difficult for some.

The benefits of this technology include: • Early detection of changes within residents that may not yet be visible to the eye • Enables early intervention and treatment to be conducted in-facility • Reducing and/or preventing admissions, readmissions, and emergency department visits

What to do: Routine hygiene of your feet—cleaning and

nail-trimming—is key to prevention. Don’t cut your toenails in a curve; cut them straight across. Again, wear shoes that fit and wear the proper footwear for the proper activity. Athletes, particularly runners, should keep their nails short.

CONTINUES ON 62 

170 Warren Street | Glens Falls, NY 12801 T: 518.793.5163 | F: 518.793.5165 www.PinesGlensFalls.com

FALL 2022 | 55PLUSLIFEMAG.COM

61

CONTINUED FROM 61

CALLUSES What they are: Thicker patches on the soles

and sides of your feet may become tough and uncomfortable as we age.

What to do: Keeping your feet clean and using

a pumice stone to wear down calluses are reli-

able ways of minimizing discomfort from calluses. But Lam says sometimes they can grow thick enough that you’ll need medical intervention. “Take care of your nails monthly,” says Lam. “Look at the bottoms of your feet periodically to make sure no calluses have built up. If you notice anything strange or uncomfortable, you should probably consult your podiatrist.”

S

o how often should you see a podiatrist? Dr. Lam says lots of people, particularly ones who are active and on their feet regularly, likely won’t need to check in very much with a podiatrist—unless they have one or more of the chronic issues mentioned above. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, also might require more frequent checkups.

Mainly, though, good foot hygiene, stretching and the right shoes will go a long way.

And, by the way, Lam recommends against those trendy “foot masks” that can cause dramatic skin peeling when used on feet. “You have to be really careful with those,” he says. “They’re chemicals that are built to take off the outer layers of your skin. If not applied appropriately or applied too long, they can cause minor burning. Plus, if you remove a lot of those outer layers it’s easier to get irritation [such as] blistering and things like that.”

“There’s nothing wrong with applying lotion to the feet at night. Use a pumice stone a couple times a week and very rarely will you need a peel like that,” he adds. “That’s more of a fad than anything.” n

Concepts of Health Care, Inc.

Licensed Agency Providing Quality In-Home Aide Services since 1985 for 11 Counties CONCEPTSOFHEALTHCARE.COM

Reliable Care in the Comfort of Your Own Home!

• Keep your loved one in the

comfort of their own home & familiar environment with a reliable and personalized certified aide.

• Hourly shifts or our specialty

of 24/7 uninterrupted live-in care options are available.

• Continuity of care is arranged

and staffed by our nursing supervisors.

• Our agency is committed to

providing quality service in a professional manner.

“Coaching your capabilities in becoming the best version of yourself!” ◀ Dawn Kralovich, RN, BSN, PN1-Nutrition Coach, Reiki Master

As a Nurse Wellness Coach, I take a holistic approach in helping my clients be in the driver’s seat of their complete health journey. With personal and professional experience, goal-setting and strategy, I help empower clients in creating a plan to lead a more balanced life. I act as your whole health advocate and accompany you on your journey, to get that best version of you! ⦁ FREE consult ⦁ Personal nurse wellness coaching ⦁ Reiki session with/without nurse wellness coaching

CONTACT US TODAY:

(518) 885-2020 healthconcepts@nycap.rr.com

62

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

518-217-5115 ⦁ info@downwiththewellness.com

downwiththewellness.com

Artwork: iStockphoto.com. Photo: Ridofranz; illustration: 3xy.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

PARTNER CONTENT

Exercise as a Pill Fitness experts can create a custom prescription

T

ANTHONY DEMETRIOU, M.S. | TRAIN HD

he aging process brings about many changes to the body, but that doesn’t mean you should stop or not start to be active, no matter what your age. Activities of daily living can become more challenging and strenuous, which generally brings about a decline in physical activity. Physical activity is the ultimate drug to combat many diseases. Exercise has shown to be an alternative to prescription drugs for many conditions, including heart disease, anxiety, depression, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Men were estimated to gain up to 2.6 hours of life per one hour of moderate activity and 5.4 hours of life per vigorous activity. On the other hand, women were estimated to gain up to 5.6 hours of life for moderate activity and 11.3 hours of life for every hour of vigorous activity. Exercise is one of the only drugs that does not have side effects.

In a 2016 study, the American College of Sports Medicine suggests that every person should be physically active for a minimum of 150 minutes weekly, as little as 30 minutes 5 days a week, of moderate-intensity physical activity; if that is too difficult, 150 minutes of light-intensity activity. Additionally, as you age it’s important to also do exercises that help with increasing or maintaining flexibility and strength so that you can keep doing your activities of daily living without becoming dependent on others. Aim for two to three days a week.

Incorporating exercise into life if you are sedentary can feel overwhelming or recognizing you need to incorporate more of it into your routine for those already active can be an eye-rolling moment, but exercise in general makes you feel stronger, more confident and yes, healthier — because you’re doing something good for yourself, your body.

To help break down the prescription of exercise as we age, exercise goals can be categorized into three levels/categories: bronze, silver, and gold.

• Bronze: Aim for 150 minutes a week of light-intensity activity. Things like walking, swimming, or cycling are good examples.

• Silver: This is for the person who has been exercising consistently and reaching their minimum cardiovascular activity.

The aim should be to include strength and flexibility training. Examples could be things like squats, push-ups, planks, and including some form of stretching or foam rolling work.

• Gold: This is for the person that has been exercising consistently, including cardio and strength-building exercises. You may want to add plyometric strength and power exercises (e.g., medicine ball work, jumping, hoping, and ballistic kettlebell movements). These types of exercises help combat a decline in neuromuscular function as we age, which can help activities of daily living and movement capacities.

Whichever category you fall into, the ultimate exercise pill is movement. If you are engaging in that already, then push it to the next level. It can feel overwhelming and the initial investment is hard, but starting a long-term program with a fitness expert who can customize a plan for you might be your next step. The most important part of any form of exercise plan is it should be something you enjoy by yourself or with other friends and family.

REFERENCES: • Bice, M., R., Hanson., N., Eldridge, J., Reneau, P., & Powell, D., W. (2011). Neuromuscular adaptations in elderly adults are task-specific during stepping and obstacle clearance tasks. International Journal of Exercise Science, 4(1), 278-286. http://www.intjexersci.com.

• Moore G. E., Durstine, L., J., & Painter, P., L., (2016). ACSM’s Exercise Management for Persons With Chronic Diseases and Disabilities-4th Edition • Sallis, R. (2014). Exercise is medicine: a call to action for physicians to assess and prescribe exercise. The Physician and Sportsmedicine, 43(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/00913847.2015.1001938

TRAIN HD 265 Osbourne Rd., Loudonville | (845) 313-8001 | trainhd.com

dd

dd

d

d

d

OH NO! IT’S THAT TIME!

978 Albany-Shaker Road 518-785-5516 • kiskistires.com

Servicing Personal Vehicles & Business Fleets

Precious Cargo Aboard!

Keep them safe.

SERVICES: Exhaust • Oil Change • No Starts NYS Inspections • Alignment • Brakes Heating & Air Conditioning • Tune Ups Check Engine Light Diagnostics 30k, 60k, 90k Service

CLASSIC 24 $ 00

1149

HOURS: M-F 7:30a-4p We offer most major brands of tires. Here are a few of our preferred brands.

COMPACT 24 $ 00

• Simple • Durable • Powerful • Affordable

DELUXE 28 SHO $ 00

1349

1699

• Large Impeller • Auto Turn Steering • 24" Wide

• Simple • Durable • Powerful • Affordable

“Buy Where Service Counts”

(518) 372-5611

60 FREEMANS BRIDGE RD., SCOTIA Mon. - Fri. 8-6, Sat. 8-2

C apital R egion H eaRing g! n i w o r G e We ar Announcing the opening of our 2nd location at

4 Palisades Drive in Albany and the addition of

Dr. Victoria Harris, AuD The Audiologists TRUSTED by the New York State Police Academy for the past 17 years.

Patrick Bergmann, AuD Doctor of Audiology

Victoria Harris, AuD Doctor of Audiology

Diagnostic Testing • Digital Hearing Aids • Custom Hearing Protection

ALBANY

WYNANTSKILL

4 Palisades Drive

9 West Sand Lake Road

518-599-0068

518-326-1742

ALL MAJOR INSURANCES ACCEPTED

CAPITALREGION CAPITAL REGIONHEARING HEARING .COM 64

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

BE YOUR BEST

ch-ch-ch-

Changes Why embracing change is a good idea

BY BENITA ZAHN

H

Benita Zahn photo by Kris Qua Photography.

umans hate change. Plain and simple. Even if we don’t like where we are, the thought of moving on can be both frightening and daunting. It’s not a character flaw; it’s human nature. Change is scary.

Even if we’re yearning for change, we often balk at making the move because we know what we have. Research finds we shy away from change because we fear loss of control, fear of the unknown, worry that the new won’t be better than the old—and then we resist doing the work required to change.

It’s often said that “Change occurs when the pain of remaining the same is greater than the pain of changing.” But why wait? Why experience and endure that pain? Isn’t it better to experience the “pain” of change before the pain associated with the need to change becomes unbearable?

How do you know if you’re ready for change? In 1977, researchers James Prochaska and Carlo Di Clemente created the Transtheoretical Model of Change, which outlines five stages of change: Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3 Stage 4 Stage 5

precontemplation contemplation preparation action maintenance

Talking with a counselor or spending some quality time reflecting are good ways to test your readiness for change.

In precontemplation change may be a fleeting thought. But once you hit the preparation stage, you are making plans to embrace something new. Action is making the change, while maintenance is living the change.

Yes, despite our best plans and intentions we may relapse.

Some experts suggest relapse is a sixth stage. Understand that relapse doesn’t mean failure. It provides an opportunity to reevaluate, make adjustments and resume the “change journey.” After all, if change was easy, everyone would do it.

Once you achieve your goal and move onto maintenance,

you’re no longer making the change; you are living it. So how to change? Here are some steps to get started: • Set the goal. Decide what needs to be changed.

• Make a plan that is SMART … specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time-bound. In short, don’t decide to run a marathon in a month. It takes, on average, 20 weeks to train for that run. So you have to decide on the “what” and then break it into realistic steps with an achievable timetable. As the great lyricist Stephen Sondheim wrote, “step by step, putting it together.”

• Enlist a coach or other support person. Research finds that when we have a partner, we are more likely to stick with and achieve our goals.

• Review and revise your goals as you proceed. Is the change still relevant? Is it too easy? Can you do more? Do you need more time?

• Plan celebrations along the way. Waiting until you’ve reached the maintenance stage may be too long to wait. We need encouragement even before we get there. Celebrate the little victories. Perhaps it’s losing the first five pounds of an overall goal of 50 or running a 5K on your way to a half marathon or cleaning out one closet of the home you’re planning to sell.

• Don’t change because someone says you should.

Change has to come from within. Remember when you were a kid and you were told to go clean up your room?

Odds are you dug in your heels and became angry. But if you wanted to clean up your mess, nothing could stop you.

That doesn’t change as we age.

• Take stock as we move toward the new year. Do you want 2023 to be a repeat of 2022? Are there changes you’ve been contemplating? Like every great journey, change starts with the first step. Happy travels! n BENITA ZAHN is a certified health and wellness coach working in the Capital Region. Visit benitahealthcoach.com.

FALL 2022 | 55PLUSLIFEMAG.COM

65

HEALTH & WELLNESS

PLAYING BRIDGE is a good example of a memory-boosting activity that both keeps your mind engaged and encourages social interaction.

Worried About

‘Senior Moments’?

Follow these doctors’ tips to sharpen your memory

f an apple a day keeps the doctor away, colloquial wisdom indicates that a puzzle a day keeps the senior moments away. But do focused activities like Sudoku or the Wordle really help protect your memory as you age?

According to Dr. Rebecca Stetzer, geriatric specialist at Albany Med, they might—if you enjoy them and they challenge you. But they are worth much more as part of a holistic approach.

“The best way to engage cognitively is to be learning new things,” says Stetzer, who is an associate professor, assistant dean, and part of the faculty for the Geriatric Fellowship program, in addition to seeing patients of her own aged 75 and older.

Stetzer says if you do love puzzles, multifaceted ones are best, especially if they’re also social. Bridge is a good example. “You have to keep track of strategy and you’re interacting at the same time so you’re doing multiple things at once,” she says.

Stetzer cited a favorite study showing that learning new things can actually increase people’s brain matter volume.

In the study, MRIs of participants learning to juggle showed similar growth whether they were 20 years old or 60—and

66

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

whether they actually became proficient at juggling or not.

THE MIND-BODY CONNECTION

One important way to keep your mind sharp is to keep your heart healthy. Dr. Roberta Miller, an internal medical specialist who just recently retired from private practice, devoted much of her career to caring for homebound individuals, first through the Veterans Administration and then through Homedical Administrative Associates, founded by her husband Dr. David Hornick in 2004.

“I think that one of the things that’s very important is that there has to be healthy living prior to aging because it’s all connected,” Miller says. “It’s very important people are aware that dementia is a slowly progressive illness and there may be ways to forestall it or prevent it by having a healthy lifestyle, for sure.”

Miller suggests regular visits to a primary care provider to screen for issues such as hypertension, which can lead to brain damage and dementia in the future. She also says it’s important to have your pharmacist and primary physician monitor medications for possible interactions, since confu-

Photo: iStockphoto.com/Drazen Zigic.

I

BY REBECCA GATTO

sion can be a side effect of some drugs. One helpful resource is the American Geriatric Society’s Beers Criteria, which lists medications, including over-the-counter varieties, that can be dangerous to the aging brain.

And then there are the drugs Miller says no one needs. The brain-enhancing supplements that populate television infomercials and online pop-up ads are a waste of money, in her experience. “There are a bunch of them on TV to improve your memory,” she says. “There’s absolutely no proof by science that these are helpful. They haven’t been peer-reviewed.”

Stetzer also emphasized the effect of cardiovascular health on cognition. She recommends following a Mediterranean diet, which is characterized by high consumption of olive oil and plant foods, moderate wine-drinking with meals, moderate intake of fish, seafood, poultry, eggs, and fermented dairy products such as yogurt and cheese, and a small amount of red and processed meats and sweets. “You can always feel good about it when you’re putting lots of olive oil in your food,” she says.

FRIENDS MAKE LIFE MEMORABLE

One often-overlooked component of brain health is simply to have some fun, especially with friends. Stetzer says exercise is even more beneficial if you’re socially active. Tennis, in particular, has been shown to be helpful because it’s strategic, requires quick reactions, and is social. Table tennis, for that matter, is a great choice as well. Even a walk with friends is better than walking solo.

“The people that I see age well are those that are interested and engaged and have a reason to get up,” Stetzer says.

“They’re volunteering or they’ve got a busy social schedule.”

Miller advises staying on top of regular screenings for hearing, eyesight, and cognition as one way to avoid the pitfalls of isolation. “As we age, our world tends to get smaller, and people tend to get more isolated,” she says. “And we have sensory loss, such as visual and hearing, and those all contribute to isolation and so it’s very important that those things are looked into.”

ENHANCING THE AGING BRAIN

While Stetzer’s patients may be aging, that’s not a bad thing in and of itself. “There’s so much negativity about it, but one of the things we see with aging brains is that with time, you have more neural connections. And also, you see more use of both hemispheres of the brain,” she says.

So while some minor lapses in memory may feel frustrating, Stetzer says there are upsides. “Circuits run a little slower and it’s harder to run multiple circuits at once”—think of walking from one room to another and forgetting why you went there—but “you’re able to make deeper connections, you’re able to have that wisdom of experience and the capacity for complex thought,” she says. “The privilege of working with older adults is (that) I see so many of those benefits.” n

Helping Seniors Live Their Best Lives Take a Tour. Join Our Family. See the Difference.

Conveniently located with spacious, fully private apartments Daily engaging social, educational, and entertaining activities Chef-prepared meals from a menu of changing options Individualized care plans in a caring and supportive environment 24-hour nursing and wellness staff Assistance with activities of daily living Transportation to medical appointments

180 Washington Ave Ext Albany, NY 12203

518-456-7831 www.daughtersofsarah.org

FALL 2022 | 55PLUSLIFEMAG.COM

67

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Family Affair Coping with an adult child’s mental illness as a parent efore attending a family wedding a few months ago, Lisa Trudeau emailed all her siblings urging them not to ask her 25-year-old son whether he was working or in school. Her son is living with mental illness and, she told her siblings, if they ask these questions, he’s going to feel badly about himself.

As any parent of an adult child with mental illness knows, the role is challenging enough without friends’ and family members’ judgment, uninformed advice and interference.

Those well-meaning questions would have likely triggered a downhill spiral, says Trudeau, a retired Albany resident.

“I get a lot of the, ‘You’re too easy on him. You need to discipline him more,’” she says. There are no simple life hacks for parenting an adult child with mental illness. “It’s a matter of being there for him,” she says. She has learned that when her son, who has anxiety and schizoaffective disorder, is upset, she has to wait for him to settle his emotions; only then can they discuss what happened.

68

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

While it may feel as if you’re alone as a parent of a young adult living with a mental health issue, you’re not. Data from June 29 to July 1 from the U.S. Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention’s Household Pulse Survey shows 43% of adults ages 18 to 29 experienced symptoms of an anxiety or depressive disorder in the previous two weeks, while 37% of those 30 to 39 reported feeling anxious or depressed in the past 14 days.

The pandemic has taken a significant toll on young adults, many of whom grew up practicing active-shooter drills in school and who now live with financial uncertainty, a nation divided and extreme weather events. According to the American Psychological Association’s 2020 Stress in America survey, 34% of those 18 to 23 said their mental health has deteriorated compared with before the pandemic, and 19% of millennials reported a decline in their mental health from the previous year.

Whether your adult child struggles with anxiety, depres-

Photo: iStockphoto.com/fizkes.

B

BY THERESA SULLIVAN BARGER

MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES

98

n National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Provides free, 24/7 support and crisis resources for those in distress.

DIAL 988 n Crisis Text Line Connect with a crisis counselor 24/7.

1924 - 2022

TEXT 741741

n NAMI Capital Region NY Offers peer-led support groups, including family groups, for adults with a loved one who has experienced symptoms of a mental illness.

518-462-2000 x205 n The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration A taxpayer-funded resource that helps people connect with evidence-based, substance-use treatment options.

800-662-HELP (4357)

sion, bipolar disorder, an eating disorder, schizophrenia, or another mental illness, parents face trials that challenge their wisdom, patience, and their own mental well-being. While circumstances vary depending on the severity of the adult child’s mental illness, parents have to walk a fine line between supporting their adult kids to be as independent as possible and enabling them in a way that makes them financially or emotionally dependent, mental health experts say. And sometimes, despite expressions of love and parental support, adults with mental illness make choices that upset us.

“I say to parents, you can be supportive, but when you push or overstep boundaries, it can backfire,” says Jennifer Trudeau-Brown, a licensed mental health counselor with One Roof Holistic Health Center in Saratoga Springs.

Charlene Hewlett has a close relationship with her 22-yearold daughter and her daughter knows her parents believe in her and will be there if she needs them. When first diagnosed with anxiety as a teen, Hewlett encouraged her “not to let her anxiety keep her from living her best life.” Her daughter fulfilled her goal of traveling around Europe after graduation and is waitressing while researching graduate schools.

When her daughter was gripped by depression while in college, Hewlett drove the two hours from their Warren County home to comfort her and provide redirection. Fortunately, her daughter kept seeing her therapist and taking her medications. Not all young adults with mental illness are as compliant.

CONTINUES ON 71 

Please Call for Rates and Information!

Home is Where You’ll Find Us

u Our aides and

u Skilled nursing

(518) 694-9907 vnhc.com

(518) 489-2681 vnaalbany.org

companions will keep you safe at home

and rehab therapy in the comfort of home

The Perfect Balance of Healing & Home

FALL 2022 | 55PLUSLIFEMAG.COM

69

We make Senior Living Simple.

Senior care options can be overwhelming and confusing. We help families navigate all their options to live their best life. Getting the care they need while supporting their independence.

Oasis Senior Advisors is here to help, because the right place means everything.

Ray Shafer, CSA® 518.930.6416 RShafer@YourOasisAdvisor.com OasisSeniorAdvisors.com/Albany

Brand New 55+ Community in Guilderland!

Spacious 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments starting from $1525

*1 Month Free Rent w/this ad

6228 Riitano Lane, Albany, NY 12203 • Elevators • Secured Intercom Entry • Fully Equipped Kitchens w/ Stainless Steel Appliances • Patios or Balconies • Washer & Dryer In Unit

*Conditions apply

70

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

• • • • • •

Pet Friendly* (restrictions) Community Room Fitness Center Resident Library 24-Hour Maintenance Onsite management

518.625.3415 | westmerevillage.com

Scan me for details

HEALTH & WELLNESS CONTINUED FROM 69

While most parents naturally worry about their children, regardless of their ages, Hewlett says, “I need to have confidence in her and trust that she’s going to continue to stay the path. I can’t hold her hand forever.” She learned from her own experience losing both her parents 11 weeks apart the importance of looking forward, she says. Her daughter “ran a half marathon a few months ago. Now she’s thinking about running a full marathon. She’s setting big goals so she has something positive to focus on.”

While her daughter is in a good place now, Hewlett says she learned the value of setting goals while earning her degree. “No goal is too big or too small. Getting out of bed on a bad day can be a goal to feel good about,” she says. “If you are in that really low place, that’s all your goal needs to be.”

If parents and their adult children live in the same place, Trudeau-Brown advises starting the conversation with a hug and making eye contact. Don’t ask a lot of questions, she says. Acknowledge that you see them struggling and tell them you’re there for them if they need you. For those whose adult kids live elsewhere, she suggests parents ask an open-ended question such as, “I was wondering what you’re up to and if you need anything.”

Either way, she recommends parents attend support groups such as those offered by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), receive individual therapy for themselves, and consider family therapy, if their adult kids agree.

You’re in a better position to think clearly if you make time to care for your own mental and physical health.

When Trudeau adopted her son at 10 months old, the single mother knew he faced health challenges. She considers herself lucky her son received a diagnosis as a child, so he had already learned that taking his medication made him better.

After graduating from a special school, he volunteered there as a peer mentor, but Trudeau says she has not been able to find appropriate work programs for adults with disabilities.

He lives with her and helps with chores, earning a monthly allowance. She has learned to prioritize when to intervene, asking herself whether it’s a matter of her son’s safety, something important such as personal hygiene and completing his household chores, or things she just has to let go of.

“Try to separate what you want from your kid from what you need from your kid. That has been my driving philosophy all along. It’s not about you. It’s about them,” Trudeau says. “Try to stay connected as best you can. You’ve just got to hope at some point they’re going to come to the realization you’re not trying to control them.” n

FA S T FAC T S

1 in 5 U.S. adults

1 in 6 U.S. youth (ages 6-17)

Illustrations: iStockphoto.com/Fourleaflover.

experience mental illness each year

experience a mental health disorder each year

1 in 20 U.S. adults

experience serious mental illness each year

50%

of all lifetime mental illness begins by

age 14

75%

of all lifetime mental illness begins by

age 24

Suicide

is the second leading cause of death among people ages 10-34

To visit the sources for each of these statistics and learn more, go to 55pluslifemag.com.

FALL 2022 | 55PLUSLIFEMAG.COM

71

7 RETIREMENT

Things

You May Not

Know

$ocial $ecurity about

Back payments, parents’ benefits and how to get your questions answered

BY CHRIS HARRIS

S

o, you’ve busted your hump for decades and now, retirement is finally on the horizon. That means it’s time to start preparing for your postwork life. Part of that planning will inevitably involve decisions about your Social Security benefits, including the best time to start collecting them. The choices you make will directly impact your future, so the more you know going into the process, the better off you’ll be.

“There’s lots of misinformation out there in the general public as well as the media about Social Security,” says Ben Stump, public affairs specialist for the New York Region of the Social Security Administration, adding that you’re never too young to start preparing for retirement. With that in mind, here are five things you should know about Social Security before even thinking about filing for those benefits.

1

CREATE A PERSONALIZED ACCOUNT NOW Stump recommends all covered workers create a personalized account on the SSA website. “Anyone can create one, no matter their age, and it provides

72

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

a breakdown of what you’ve earned and what benefits you would receive,” Stump says. “I check mine once a year, so if there’s ever a discrepancy in my earnings, I can see it in real time, and make sure what’s on my W2 matches what was posted for last year’s earnings.”

The benefits you receive after retirement will be based on a calculation using your highest 35 years of earnings.

“When you retire, you really want to make sure they have the correct earnings amounts to gauge your best 35 years,” Stump says. “Sometimes, it’s hard to fix someone’s earnings record when mistakes are made, especially if they were made during the 1980s or ’90s.”

2

WAIT, BUT NOT TOO LONG Everyone knows you should try to wait until you’re fully vested before filing for Social Security. But Stump says don’t wait too long. “Any covered worker can choose to retire anywhere between age 62 and age 70,” he explains. Those that retire at 62 receive less monthly in Social Security payments than those who wait until 65 or 67—what the SSA deems “full retirement age.” Stump says that after

67, those who remain in the workforce will receive “delayed retirement credits” (translation: increased benefits) for each month they work up until their 70th birthday. “I have seen people come in past age 70 to file for their benefits, and they stopped receiving those extra credits at age 70,” Stump says. “Essentially, they lost benefits just because they didn’t come in when they should have.”

3

RETROACTIVE BENEFITS ARE POSSIBLE Stump says workers who do make the decision to delay filing for their benefits upon reaching full retirement age, in order to take advantage of those delayed retirement credits, can change their minds at any time, at which point “they can apply and be paid for up to six months of retroactive benefits” in one lump sum, he says.

The SSA does not, however, pay retroactive benefits for any month prior to full retirement age, or beyond six months in the past. “This can take some pressure off people when deciding the best time to file, because they’re not locked into what may seem like a onetime decision,” Stump says. “Those who

initially choose to delay receiving retirement benefits at full retirement age have a six-month period to change their mind and receive all the benefits they would have received if they had chosen not to delay.” The lump payment can be thousands of dollars, depending on your earnings over the course of your career, so knowing this option exists can translate to a hefty one-time deposit once you do decide to take benefits.

4

YOU CAN COLLECT BENEFITS FROM THE EX So long as you and your ex-partner were married for more than 10 years, Stump says individuals can collect benefits from the SSA based on their former spouse’s employment record. He notes that two years must have passed between the finalization of the divorce and the application for benefits. The former spouse also must be between 62 and 70, “but not necessarily collecting,” says Stump. “And the amount the divorced spouse is collecting has no effect on the worker’s amount—what that ex should be getting, or what their current spouses receive. It’s totally separate.”

Word Of The Day:

FIDUCIARY. fi•du•ci•ar•y

“A fiduciary is a person or organization that acts on behalf of another person or persons, putting their clients’ interest ahead of their own, with a duty to preserve good faith and trust.”

5

YOU CAN COLLECT AND CONTINUE WORKING Stump says there is a common misconception that those who collect Social Security need to stop working.

“That’s only if you collect early,” Stump explains. “If you collect before 65, we sort of expect you to be retired.” But file after 65, “and there’s no limit to how much you can earn, and still get your Social Security benefits,” Stump says

6

PARENTS’ BENEFITS: THEY EXIST Stump says few people ever file for them, but parents’ benefits are real. According to Stump, any parent of a covered worker who is 62 or older and receives half of his or her income from that child “is potentially entitled to benefits.” The benefits can even be split between two parents, he says. However, if a parent decides to remarry, they lose those benefits, he says.

7

ADVICE AND HELP IS AVAILABLE THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS According to Stump, anyone who has questions about Social Security can get answers through the agency’s social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. “We have resources available for people who are planning for retirement, as well as real people who respond to the comments.”

S

tump suggests posting a question in the comments of any SSA social media post and then wait. “It may take a day or two, but a real person will go there and answer your question,” he says. “It is a great resource only a small amount of people are aware of.” Noting the amount of fake look-alike accounts on social media, Stump says the official SSA pages will include the agency’s seal. n

NOT ALL FINANCIAL ADVISORS ARE FIDUCIARIES. We at Fagan Associates ARE. Is your financial advisor a fiduciary?

If not, it’s time to re-evaluate that relationship.

Registered Investment Advisors

767 Hoosick Road Troy, NY 12180 (518) 279-1044 (800) 273-6026 www.faganasset.com Locally owned & managed since 1989 Requiring a minimum investment of $250,000

FALL 2022 | 55PLUSLIFEMAG.COM

73

THE VINE

Italy T

…or

his summer our family took the trip of a lifetime to Italy. We had planned this trip years ago so it was so wonderful to finally depart for Europe.

Experiencing the beauty of Italy with the love of family around you is an experience beyond words. We stayed with friends of my daughter-in-law in a part of Tuscany that many people do not get to experience. They own and run to perfection a bed-and-breakfast, and we could not have enjoyed better hosts. The architecture of the village of Campiglia is beyond words and their hospitality made us feel like family. We sampled lovely cooking and enjoyed some local bianco and rosso vino.

Every day the five of us, as well as local residents, would carefully wend our way down the winding stoned streets to the Piazza Della Repubblica, the local town square. We would all sit, sip drinks, enjoy appetizers and fill our souls with happiness. Joining the locals every day was a wonderful experience. The sky was always filled with sunshine and swifts, birds that migrate each year from Africa to raise a new family. The town is a getaway spot even for those who live elsewhere in Italy and once there, you truly understand why. We were the only Americans in the village and truly immersed ourselves in Italian culture.

Day trips to the countryside and interactions with the lo-

74

55+ LIFE MAGAZINE | FALL 2022

Bust!

cal people were wonderful, as was the cuisine. Many places left us speechless. We bathed in the ocean and spent a lovely afternoon in a mineral bath. The museums and churches house some of the greatest artistic treasures in the world and experiencing the genius of the hands of Michaelangelo in person was chilling. What perfection. To stand that close to something he created is truly breathtaking.

On a trip like this you are on the go every day and we truly did not have enough time to see it all. We all came away with a different appreciation for life and a memory that we get to share. That is what a multigenerational vacation is all about.

We saw the visions and handiwork of geniuses and created our memories amongst those masterpieces.

It was a perfect trip that I got to spend time with my beautiful wife, wonderful son and daughter-in-law, and my awesome grandson. To my family I say thank you for the memories—and to my newfound Italian friends I say, Grazie! n

Above, from left: Rod Michael is pictured on his family’s travels in and around Tuscany, with grandson Luke, daughter-in-law Alison, and son Chris. Second photo from right is his wife Phyllis with Luke at the family’s last stop, the Calidario Terme Etrusche resort and spa in Venturina Terme.

Map photo: iStockphoto.com/cmcderm1.

BY ROD MICHAEL