Seasoned

seasoned

a p r il 2017

Over 50 & living the good life!

Anxiety busters

How to live well in a world of worry

Financial fitness

Motivation strategies to start saving now

Brain health

Talk yourself into new and better days

Gardening fun

Grow vegetables, attract butterflies this spring

seasoned

A monthly publication of The Eagle, 1729 Briarcrest Drive, Bryan, TX 77802 PUBLISHER Crystal Dupre’ DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING Sean Lewis

DISPLAY ADVERTISING MANAGER Linda Brinkman SPECIAL PROJECTS EDITOR/ PUBLICATION DESIGNER Shauna Lewis shauna.lewis@theeagle.com

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Contents

How to live well in a world of worry Motivation strategies to get saving now Seniors EXPO booth and volunteer information Growing vegetable and butterfly gardens in the Brazos Valley Senior mental health: Talk yourself into new and better days Woman’s Club House and Garden Tour Risk factors for falling, tips for prevention Calendar

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Imagine Exceptional Senior Living!

NOW LEASING! INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE Learn more and connect with us at:

www.parcattraditions.com

Parc at Traditions

3095 Club Drive | Bryan, Texas 77807

979.213.4200 T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

April 4, 2017 | 3

How to live well in a world of worry

We live in a worryfilled, anxious world.

We’re naturally concerned about a multitude of things - the future, kids, grandkids, health, finances, possessions, Gary Roe our home, our country, Hospice the world. Worry is infectious, and can lead to fear. When fear takes up residence, overwhelm is not far behind.

Worry can gobble a life Larry was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in his early 30s. He adapted courageously for more than 20 years, then declined quickly. When I first visited as his hospice chaplain, Larry’s daily life consisted of sitting motionless in his recliner, dependent on others to move even the pillows under his arms and behind his head.

Yet, he still managed a smile.

In fact, he was well-known for his perpetual grin.

During one visit, I was distracted by something that happened earlier in the day. I looked up at one point and found Larry gazing intently at me.

“Gary, you look worried. Is something troubling you?” he asked.

With a sigh, I said, “I’m sorry, Larry. As a matter of fact, yes.”

“Worry is bad stuff. It will eat your mind,” he said, shaking his head. Then he promptly changed the subject.

Larry was right. Worry is terrible stuff. It sneaks up, and then preys on us. It fills our mental spaces with “what if.” It dupes us into expending vast amounts of energy trying to keep something bad from happening. Worry can gobble a life.

Worry is not our friend Worry is not our friend. In fact, I can’t think of a single positive thing to say about it. We are, of course, naturally concerned about the people and issues in our lives. As long as we can take some kind of action, worry can be kept at arm’s length. When we begin to ruminate and mentally spin in circles about something that might happen, worry gains a foothold. Once it enters, like a virus it can quickly spread and wreak havoc.

In addition, we all have a past. We have events and situations back there we would rather forget, if we could.

Old wounds can easily be triggered by

present circumstances. Unresolved hurts often resurface to plague us as current troubles. We can feel like we’re right back in the old stuff again, or like we haven’t made any progress.

“I’m stuck,” is a common expression of our frustration.

“Let it go,” someone might say.

That’s quick and easy advice, but not so simple to do. Yes, we need to release things, but how? What does “letting go” look like?

I’m well-acquainted with worry.

My anxiety baseline is probably higher than most people. I’ve battled this unwelcome invader almost my entire life. I wish I could say I’ve conquered it, but larger and more alarming concerns seem to pop up every year, challenging me to dig deeper and release quickly and more fully. In other words, we won’t be able to stop worry from coming. It’s how we respond when it comes knocking that matters.

Dealing with worry How do you deal with worry? Here are some suggestions: Realize that you’re vulnerable.

We all are. We’re human. No one is impervious or impenetrable. All of us have our soft spots and shaky areas. Expecting ourselves to be superhuman only adds to our already heavy burdens.

Breathe deeply. Yes, I’m serious.

Breathing in deeply through your nose and then out through your mouth activates your parasympathetic nervous system and initiates a calming response throughout your body. It slows down the mind.

List the things you’re concerned about. Don’t just think about them, but get them out of your mind and down on paper. The process of writing (or typing) helps keep the mind from running ahead. There’s something about seeing our fears on paper (or on the screen) in front of us that unplugs some of the terror.

Which concerns do you have no control over? Write a big “NC” (no control) by them. These are the ones that your heart will demand that you let go of, sooner or later.

Which concerns do you have some control over? Of these, which one is bugging you the most? Put a star next to it. Ask yourself, “What action can I take here?” It may be as simple as talking to someone about it.

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Take action on one item, and then, when you’re ready, go to the next most troublesome one and do the same thing. And so on.

Take your time and pace yourself Take your time. Life saps us and sometimes leaves little emotional energy for conquering the big stuff.

Pace yourself.

Keep your list. Each time you look at it, let the “NC” labels be a reminder that you’re not in charge of that one or in control of it. This will help you release it over time.

Add to the list as needed. More things will come up as time moves on. Over the months ahead, you’ll be amazed at how much you’ve released and how much action you’ve taken.

One thing, one day at a time I’m reminded of a story a speaker told at a conference. His father owned a chain of grocery stores and was an astute businessman. One day his father came to him and said, “Son, I need you to go behind the store and unload the semi-truck back there.”

When the son raised the door of the truck, he was nearly flattened by the stench. The truck was stuffed with bags of rotten potatoes.

He ran back to his father and exclaimed, “The truck is full of rotten spuds! How do you expect me to do this?”

His father smiled, gently grabbed his son’s shoulder’s, and replied, “One bag at a time, boy. One bag at a time.”

Worry stinks. Handle it one bag, one worry, at a time.

Worry has stolen enough Worry has stolen enough of our lives already. As Larry said, “It will eat your mind.” It’s time to take action. Make that list. Work through it. You’ll be glad you did. One stinky bag at a time.

Gary Roe is an author, chaplain and grief counselor with Hospice Brazos Valley. His latest book, “Shattered: Surviving the Loss of a Child” was a No. 1 Amazon bestseller in February.

Visit Gary at www.garyroe.com, or contact him at 979-821-2266 or groe@ hospicebrazosvalley.org.

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Motivation strategies to get saving now

These are scary times when it comes to financial security. Between the uncertainty about the future of Social Security and companysponsored pension plans becoming rare, most of us are left in charge of creating our own retirement security.

Unfortunately, humans are not naturally wired to be great at saving for a distant future. More urgent and pressing needs and wants (whether helping a child pay for college or replacing the brakes on the car) tend to hog our attention and financial resources.

That explains TracY Stewart alarming headlines and worrisome study Financial Literacy results: one in three Americans has no retirement savings, and even families with retirement savings often don’t have enough.

That is a troublesome trend, since the savings rate is the single largest determinant of financial security in retirement. What can you do to set your family up for more peace and less struggle in your older years? You might start with trying some tricks that are powered by the latest behavioral studies and research. Even if you are not a natural saver (few humans are), you might find that following these suggestions can help you make good progress.

Make the future tangible.

The biggest problem with the future is that it is not real. Theoretically,

numbers will be individual (and you should be working with a financial planner to nail yours down!) but be sure to break them down to the lowest possible level. If you want to save $50,000 over the next five years, it will translate into $10,000 a year, $833 a month, or just under $200 per week.

Automate as much as you can.

Saving money is a little like flossing. You know it’s important.

Professionals scold you when you fail to do it regularly. And yet, creating the regular habit of it can provide to be a challenge.

Once you have decided on your new savings pattern, you may consider removing your decision-making from the process altogether. By setting up a pre-determined automated weekly transfer to a savings account, you don’t have to remember to save. The money is moved seamlessly, and you can watch the balance grow without having to draw on your willpower to press the button. By automating the process, you are making money decisions after you have set your savings aside – as

we are well aware that days turn into years, and that eventually we will want to power down in the work we do – or retire from working completely.

The trouble is that this hypothetical future does not feel nearly as urgent and colorful as your world today. As a result, we tend to put our money where our attention is: in the present.

Since your brain won’t cooperate in this quest naturally, you might consider tricking it by making the future seem a little less hypothetical.

Consider creating a “vision board” or a poster with pictures that represent your goals in retirement. You might include maps of places you would want to travel, photos of a cottage you would want to own or pictures of grandkids you would get to enjoy if you don’t have to work to maintain your lifestyle.

You may also create an “avatar” photo of yourself, aged by 20 years or so, to bridge the gap between the way you look and feel today and the you who will want to retire in the future.

Smart phone apps like Oldify can help you do that at a relatively low or no cost.

Split big goals into smaller ones.

Saving $250,000 or $500,000 towards retirement sounds like a big goal. So big in fact that many people are too discouraged to give it a try!

Instead of staring at a big number, consider breaking it down into smaller chunks. Those with a longer stretch of time before retirement will reap the most benefit from the magic of compounding returns. Everyone’s

opposed to trying to decide whether you will make room for your savings this week.

You might set up an automated transfer within your regular banking accounts, or try an app like Betterment, Digit or Acorns. Painless savings, here we come!

Finding the motivation to get saving now.

Let your new savings plan be detailed but flexible. After all, financial emergencies do happen, and you may find yourself straying from your perfect path from time to time.

My advice is to keep your focus on progress, not absolute numbers and time frames. If it takes you 16 months instead of 12 to save $10,000, you are still well ahead compared to not having made any constructive changes at all.

Be patient, track your progress and keep at it. Your future self will thank you!

Contact Tracy B. Stewart, CPA, PFS, CFF, CDFA, CFP® at www.

TexasDivorceCPA.com.

The Most Important Thing in any Relationship 2016

Seniors EXPO booth reservations

Vendor booth reservations for The Eagle’s 16th annual Seniors EXPO event in Bryan are being accepted through April 15, or as long as spaces are available.

Seniors EXPO will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Brazos County Expo Complex, 5827 Leonard Road.

The free event, sponsored by H-E-B, is planned by a committee of various business representatives.

The expo will feature a Vegas casino theme, and include vendor booths, entertainment, educational seminars, free health screenings and several door prizes. The cost for a booth space is $125 without electricity or $150 with T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

electricity. Spaces are granted on a first-come, first served basis.

Event volunteers are also needed, for tasks such as greeting guests; assisting vendors, entertainers and visitors; driving golf carts; managing tickets; passing out door prizes; setting up for the show; and cleaning up afterward.

For more information on booth spaces or to reserve a space, call Barbara Pratt at 979-595-1641. To volunteer, contact Ashley Gonzales at agonzales@standardshhh.com or 979777-9926.

For additional event details, call The Eagle at 979-731-4738.

Robert Herring, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology

3091 University Drive East, #410 Bryan, TX 77802 www.listenhearaudiology.com

April 4, 2017 | 5

Garden

Grow fresh veggies or attract b

By STACY CANTU

Special to The Eagle Springtime gardening to grow food or even just to attract butterflies can result in mental and physical health benefits, such as mental clarity, relaxation and exercise, plus the enjoyment of tasty homegrown produce, experts say.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) believes that moderate-intensity level activity for 2.5 hours each week can reduce the risk for obesity, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, heart disease, stroke, depression, colon cancer and premature death, according to an article published by Michigan State University Extension. The CDC considers gardening a moderate-intensity level activity. Additionally, those who choose gardening as their moderate-intensity exercise are more likely to exercise 40 to 50 minutes longer on average than those who choose activities like walking or biking.

Gardening has also emerged in recent years as a scientifically proven stress reliever, the article states. Stress can cause irritability, headaches, stomach aches, heart attacks and worsen pre-existing conditions in the body. An experiment published in the Journal of Health Psychology compared gardening to reading as a stress-relieving activity; test subjects that gardened experienced a more significant decrease in stress when compared to the subjects that were assigned to read.

Vegetables Charla Anthony, horticulturist with Texas AgriLife Extension Service, said that fruit should not be planted in the months of April and May. However, several vegetables will do well if planted during these months, including eggplant, sweet corn, cucumbers, melons, okra, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, southern peas, peppers and summer and winter squash. For a complete vegetable planting calendar, visit www.brazosmg.com/plants-for-brazos-county.

Container and raised bed gardening are alternatives to inground gardens, and offer easier accessibility than bending over to reach the ground. There are many benefits to growing vegetables in raised beds, according to the Brazos Valley Master Gardeners website. The primary reasons include: ease of access to the soil surface for planting, weeding, and harvesting; increased soil depth to encourage healthy root growth; and the addition of structural interest to the garden.

Those who don’t have space for raised beds can plant vegetables in containers filled with potting soil mix, and can move them around where they grow best, Anthony wrote in a gardening column. Smaller or dwarf vegetable varieties are good choices for container gardens. Containers can be used to successfully grow almost any vegetable, she stated.

According to an article published by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, gardening in containers is one of the most versatile and creative forms of garden design. Containers add a

versatile splash of color and art wherever desired. Other reasons for container gardening include a limited amount of time to garden, mobility being limited to working in raised beds or containers, or the gardening site is unsuitable for growing desired plants due to soil conditions, unsuitable sun or shade, or other environmental factors. The biggest disadvantages to growing plants in containers are the maintenance requirements of watering and fertilizing. As a general rule, plants grown in full sun require thorough watering two to three times a week, and mature plants may have to be watered once or twice a day during the hot days of summer.

For more general information and/or gardening tips, Anthony recommends Texas Gardener, www.texasgardener.com, which offers an e-newsletter that lists events across the state.

Butterfly gardening Butterfly gardening has also become a popular form of gardening. According to Texas Parks and Wildlife, developing a garden specifically for butterflies is easy, entertaining and can provide hours of enjoyment.

Butterflies are most abundant from spring through fall, so gardeners should plan their butterfly garden to provide blooming plants throughout the season, according to the Brazos County Master Gardeners website. Include plants that flower into October and November to attract migrating butterflies such as monarchs, cloudless sulfurs and snout butterflies.

A butterfly garden can be planted in the ground, in raised beds or containers, Anthony said. Butterflies will find it no matter the planting method.

Some quick butterfly gardening tips listed by Texas Parks and Wildlife include: know what is likely in the area and provide

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for their needs; choose native plan butterflies; make it colorful; grow ensure the next generation of but sun, which is critical to butterfly s Butterflies are looking for two nectar, the food that adult butterfl for flight and egg production, and the female will lay her eggs and th according to the Brazos County M butterfly gardener’s challenge is t Suggested nectar plants to attr Coneflower, Gregg’s Mistflower, W Frostweed, Texas Kidneywood, El Bee Brush. Suggested host plants milkweed for Monarchs, passion v for Black Swallowtail, citrus for G Pipevine Swallowtail, and hackbe Texas Parks and Wildlife sugge or clusters of nectar plants throug this will usually be more effective concentrated areas of color will c area.

Upcomi Brazos Valley area residents ca the Garden Gate 2017, hosted by Gardeners. This annual garden tou 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will feature thr Garden, at 10900 Boxley Bend in Co Practices Garden, at 9689 Valley Vi the Demonstration Idea Garden, at Tickets for the event are $10 for (ages 12 and under) will be allowed Tickets may be purchased at the B Office, at 2619 Highway 21 West in B on the day of the tour. For more in County Extension Office at 823-012 Also, the Navasota Garden club First Baptist Church, 300 Church S include the annual Club Flower Sh Glance into Peckerwood Garden C additional information, contact Ch More events across the state April 8 • A Passion for Plants: An Ea 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., at Parque Zaragoza Gonzales St. in Austin. Ask the exp Lots of kid-friendly activities. Fair ways to grow vegetables, herbs and about landscaping, backyard anim

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ning fun

butterflies with spring gardens

nts, as they will be best for the w plants for the caterpillars to tterflies; and place a garden in the survival. things when they enter a garden: flies need as an energy source d host plants, the place where he food that caterpillars need, Master Gardeners website. The to provide a variety of plants. ract the butterflies include Purple White Mistflower, Indian Blanket, lbowbrush, Texas Lantana, and s to attract the caterpillars include vines for Fritillaries, parsley Giant Swallowtail, pipevine for erry for Hackberry Emperor. ests planting islands of color ghout the garden area because e than one large patch. Larger collect the butterflies into a single

ing events an get gardening ideas at Beyond y the Brazos County Master ur will be held on April 29 from ree local gardens, Texas Classic ollege Station; Texas Best View Drive in College Station; and t 2619 Highway 21 West in Bryan. r adults, and up to two children d in free with any paying adult.

Brazos County AgriLife Extension Bryan, or at any of the gardens nformation, contact the Brazos 29 or visit www.brazosmg.com. b will meet at 10 a.m. April 5 at St. in Navasota. The meeting will how and a program entitled, “A Conservation Foundation.” For harlotte@moodyranch.com. e include:

ast Austin Garden Fair, Recreation Center, 2608 perts and get garden ideas. r showcases creative, low-cost d fruit, as well as information mals and an assortment of

demonstration activities. Free admission, free plants (while supplies last). Free garden magazines, seed catalogs and plastic garden buckets. Free soil screening for food gardeners. For more information call 512-854-9600 or visit aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/ travis/local-extension-resources/east-austin-garden-fair.

• Peckerwood Garden Open Day, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., at 20559 FM 359 Road in Hempstead. Enjoy one-hour guided tours of the garden.

Admission is $10. For more details, visit www.peckerwoodgarden. org/explore/visit-peckerwood-garden/ or email info@ peckerwoodgarden.org.

• Spring Native Plant Sale at Folkfest, April 8, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. and April 9, noon-5 p.m. Butterfly and hummingbird plants; milkweed, children’s activities with plants. Heritage Village, 1370 Church Hill Drive, New Braunfels. More details at npsot.org/wp/ lindheimer/main-page.

April 13 • “Delighting in the Fragrance of Garden Roses” will be the topic of the Houston Rose Society meeting, at the Cherie Flores Garden Pavilion, 1500 Hermann Drive, Houston. Mike Shoup will present the program. Shoup is the owner of the Antique Rose Emporium in Brenham and the author of many books and articles about roses. Shoup will bring roses for door prizes and autograph copies of his books. Free admission. For more information, visit www.houstonrose.org.

• “Baking Up a Storm With Herbs” featuring Suzanne Parker, will be presented at the meeting of the San Antonio Herb Society.

As a registered dietitian and personal trainer, Parker will be demonstrating herbs used in the healthiest ways. Social time starts at 6:30 p.m. with the general meeting at 7 p.m. Held at San Antonio Garden Center, at the intersection of Parland and New Braunfels in San Antonio. For more information visit www.sanantonioherbs. org.

April 15 • Join Master Gardeners at the Downtown Farmers Market from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 500 Washington Ave. in Waco. Learn about butterflies and bees and ask questions about specific garden interests. Handouts and seeds are available. Free.

April 19 • Free Horticulture Seminar, noon to 2 p.m. at the Carleen Bright Arboretum Pavilion, 9001 Bosque Blvd., Woodway. Dr. Robert Creech, master gardener, will introduce Wendell Berry, an 81-year-old Kentucky farmer and an award-winning poet, essayist, and novelist. For additional information, contact 254-399-9204 or email jschaffer@woodwaymail.org.

April 20 • Guadalupe County Master Gardeners will meet at 7 p.m. at the Texas AgriLife Extension, 210 E. Live Oak in Seguin. National Wildlife Federation Habitat Steward Meredith O’Reilly will present “Gardening for Wildlife.” Learn about how to attract butterflies and birds to your yard, plants to use and water features. Social at

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6:15 p.m. Announcements at 6:45 p.m. Free. For more details, visit www.guadalupecountymastergardeners.org.

April 21 • Peckerwood Garden presents Evening at Peckerwood Lecture Series, 7 p.m.-9 p.m., 20559 FM 359 Road, Hempstead.

Topics will include various aspects of horticulture, botany, garden design, plant collecting adventures and conservation. Wine and refreshments provided. $10 admission and parking, $5 for members.

For more details, visit www.peckerwoodgarden.org/explore/visitpeckerwood-garden/or email info@peckerwoodgarden.org.

For additional events, visit www.texasgardener.com, aggiehorticulture.tamu.edu or www.brazosmg.com.

April 4, 2017 | 7

Senior mental health: Talk yourself into new and better days

Getting older takes some getting used to -- emotionally, I mean.

Kids are likely moving out, leaving your nest empty. Your life partner may have died.

If you still work, you are probably past your prime. If you are retired, you may be bored or Dr. Bill Klemm think you don’t have The Memory Medic enough money to do the things that would let you reduce the boredom.

But there are certainly good things about aging, especially if you are in decent health. You are no longer responsible for questionable decisions your children make. Job frustrations are over or about to end. You are now free to do more of what you actually want to do. Cherish that freedom. Use it.

Each year, seniors likely get an annual checkup from their doctor. But it is also a good idea to do a periodic examination of your mental health.

Ask yourself, “Am I making my life as fulfilling as I could? Am I in a rut? Am I happy?”

If you don’t like the answers you get, talk yourself into changing things for the better. Your newfound freedom makes it possible to take more charge of your life than you were ever able to

do when young.

Even people with serious mental health problems can benefit from selftalk, especially when it is supervised by a mental health professional. A new study from England has shown for the first time that cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) strengthens specific connections in the brains of people with psychosis, and that these stronger connections are associated with a long-term reduction in symptoms and recovery eight years later.

CBT is a specific type of talking therapy where people are guided into changing the way they think about and respond to their thoughts and experiences. For patients with psychotic symptoms, as in schizophrenia and a number of other psychiatric disorders, CBT shows patients how to think differently about their abnormal thoughts. CBT also teaches strategies to reduce distress and improve the sense of well-being.

The present study was a follow-up of the same researchers’ previous work, which showed that people with psychosis who received CBT displayed strengthened connections between key regions of the brain involved in processing social threat accurately.

The new results show for the first time that these improvements persist for many years.

In the original study, fMRI brain scans were taken before and after six months of CBT. The patients were already on psychoactive medications, and thus were compared with a control group on similar medication but did not get CBT. Scans revealed increased connectivity among neural circuits in the CBT group, but not the controls.

For the new study, patients’ medical records were tracked for eight years, and they were also assessed at the end of this period to determine their level of recovery and well-being. The results showed that long-term recovery from psychosis was associated with increases in connectivity between several brain regions, particularly the amygdala (the brain’s threat center) and the frontal lobes (which are involved in thinking and reasoning).

Lead author of the study, Dr. Liam Mason from King’s College London, who is a clinical psychologist at the Maudsley Hospital, where the research took place, said, “This research challenges the notion that the existence of physical brain differences in mental health disorders somehow makes psychological factors or treatments less important. Unfortunately, previous research has shown that this ‘brain bias’ can make clinicians more likely to recommend medication but not psychological therapies. This

is especially important in psychosis, where only one in 10 people who could benefit from psychological therapies are offered them.”

If really sick people can benefit in lasting ways from CBT, the rest of us can surely benefit from positive self-assessment and remedial self-talk.

Most of us don’t need a therapist — just common sense and a will to change our life for the better.

Sources: https://medicalxpress.com/ news/2017-01-reveals-therapy-brainwiring.html#jCp Mason, L., et al. (2017). Brain connectivity changes occurring following cognitive behavioural therapy for psychosis predict long-term recovery. Translational Psychiatry. 7, e1001. www.nature.com/tp/journal/v7/ n1/full/tp2016263a.html Memory Medic’s latest book is for seniors: “Improve Your Memory for a Healthy Brain. Memory Is the Canary in Your Brain’s Coal Mine,” available in inexpensive e-book format at www. smashwords.com/books/view/496252.

See also his recent books, “Memory Power 101” (Skyhorse), and “Mental Biology. The New Science of How the Brain and Mind Relate” (Prometheus).

Woman’s Club House and Garden Tour April 12

The Bryan-College Station Woman’s Club’s 49th annual House and Garden Tour and Luncheon on April 12 will feature the chance to view three Bryan homes.

The tour, showcasing three homes in the Traditions neighborhood in Bryan, will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The luncheon is open to everyone, and will be held continuously from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at The Woman’s Club, 1200 Carter Creek Parkway in Bryan.

The event is an important fundraiser for the club and its many community outreach activities.

The theme, “Now and Then” is reflected in the three homes. While the homes are all new, each has been decorated to reflect the different lifestyles, interests and tastes of the homeowners, according to The Woman’s Club. Visitors will see:

The Rodriguez Home a home designed to showcase the owners’ passion for history and family treasures; a home that embodies the owners’ love of all things modern; and a home that displays the owners’ eclectic style, with a melding of the past and present.

The homes are:

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• The Terrence and Erica Murphy Home, 3320 Sycamore Trail.

• The Steve and Linda Pringle Home, 3216 Elm Creek Court.

• The Jody and Marie Rodriguez Home, 3328 Sycamore Trail.

Tickets to tour all three homes are $15, and luncheon tickets are also $15. Tour tickets can be purchased on the day of the event at any of the homes. Tickets may also be purchased in advance from any club member, by calling the club director at 979-8225019, or by e-mailing thewomansclubbcs@ verizon.net.

Luncheon tickets may be purchased by contacting Sandra Petty at 979229-9945 or e-mailing her at spetty@ suddenlink.net.

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Risk factors for falling, tips for prevention According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, in 2000, falls among older adults cost the U.S. health care system over $19 billion dollars.

By 2020, the annual direct and indirect cost of fall injuries is expected to reach $55 billion.

The CDC believes this problem will only get worse as the population ages.

Right now, one in three adults age 65 and older will fall each year.

Of these, 20 to 30 Leon Bradway percent will suffer Physical Therapy moderate to severe injuries, making independent living difficult if not impossible.

And finally, falls can result in death.

So as you can see, this is a critically important topic.

Some of the more common risk factors for falls are: 1. Acute illness or injury which reduces the person’s ability to walk 2. Medications (i.e., type of medication, number of medications taken, drug reactions and overmedication).

3. Environmental hazards (poor lighting, uneven surface, slippery floors, throw rugs, not familiar with area).

4. Visual difficulties (e.g., cataract, glaucoma, macular degeneration).

5. Improper use of a gait device such as a walker or cane.

6. Confusion or change in mental status.

7. Low blood pressure.

8. Foot problems (e.g., bunions, toe deformities, ulcers, pain with walking) 9. Sedentary lifestyle (i.e., muscle weaknesses is a significant risk factor) 10. Nutritional deficiencies 11. A history of falls 12. Increasing age (in particular women tend to break bones when they fall) 13. Living alone 14. Wearing the wrong footwear or clothing 15. Mental depression.

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balance. You could join a Thai Chi or yoga class or do balance exercises standing or in a seated position. In most communities, there are classes specially designed for the older adult.

Again, a physical therapist can screen you for balance problems and teach you postural transition exercises, sit to stand and standing and turning (turning is also very important). If you’re having troubles with your balance and it has affected your walking, seek out a physical therapist for a treatment plan.

• Make certain you are using the right assistive device, that it has been fitted properly for your needs and that you are using it properly. A physical therapist can help to identify and fit the right assistive device. They can also train you in the proper use of the device. For instance, many adults who use a walker do not use it properly and this can increase the risk of falling.

Make sure that you review the use of any assistive device you use with your healthcare provider.

• Make sure you make and keep

16. Balance dysfunction.

An important thing to remember is that most falls are preventable. You can make a difference in preventing future falls. In addition, enlist your family’s help and ask your doctor, pharmacist and physical therapist for help.

Get started today by going over the risk factors listed above. Which ones apply to you? What can you do about them?

Below are some examples of what you can do now to start reducing your fall risk.

• Ask your doctor/pharmacist to go over your medications and determine if there are any side effects that could affect your vision, balance, muscles and so forth. If you find problems here, work with your doctor/pharmacist to see if alternatives are possible.

Remember you have a voice when it comes to your own health and safety.

• Try to make your home environment safer by removing loose rugs, repairing any damage in the home that may lead you to trip, install handrails on stairs and steps, make sure the lighting inside and outside your home is adequate and so on. Ask your family to help by walking through your home with you and looking for hazards to eliminate.

• Exercise every day. Exercise is so important to you not only physically but mentally as well. Just 10 to15 minutes of walking every day can make a big difference. But make sure you walk in appropriate attire (the right shoes and clothing). If your feet, knees or hip hurts, consider a stationary bike.

Even consider pool exercise.

• Muscle strengthening – strength, endurance and power decline naturally as you age. Fight this by doing an exercise routine that builds muscle strength and endurance. The exercise program should concentrate on the large thigh muscles, buttocks and muscles of the trunk. A physical therapist can evaluate your current condition and design a conditioning program for you. At Sports, Back & Pain Management Clinic, we provide our patients with a customized DVD to take home.

• Improve Balance – there are many things that can be done to improve

those eye appointments. If you haven’t been to the eye doctor in over a year, make an appointment today. Visual impairments can significantly increase your risk of falling.

• If you do experience a fall, remember that just a few days of bed rest can have a significant and negative impact on your muscle strength. It is very important to start a strengthening program immediately, after you have been cleared by your doctor, to help prevent future falls.

• Make certain to eat right and have your vitamin levels tested every six to nine months (e.g., vitamin D, B) especially if you are taking more than four prescription drugs. Deficiencies in these vitamins can increase your risk of falling and or fractures.

Don’t wait. We are all living longer.

Your health depends on taking action.

Begin reducing your fall risk today.

Leon Bradway is a doctor of physical therapy and director of the Sports, Back and Pain Management Clinic. See www. bvphysicaltherapy.com.

April 4, 2017 | 9

CALENDAR

Ongoing Sit and Fit Chair Exercises - Adults 55 and up meet at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, from noon to 1 p.m. Gentle workout while sitting in a chair. Features fat-burning aerobics and weight lifting. For more details, contact 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Line dance workshop for beginners – Adults 55 and older are invited to a free line dance workshop for beginners, held from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. on the first, second and third Monday of each month, at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Learn the steps and terminology. No registration necessary. Contact 7646351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov for more information.

Line Dancing - Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, holds line dancing for seniors on Tuesdays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and on Fridays from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Low impact workout, to the hottest tunes. For more information, contact 979-764-6351, 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Classic Country and Bluegrass Jam Session – Bluegrass Jam Session is from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Tuesdays at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. All levels welcome. Bring string instruments and a friend.

Open to all who like to listen to or play this kind of music. For more details, contact 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Friday Bridge - Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, offers bridge for seniors on Fridays from 9 to 11:30 a.m. For more, contact 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Learn how to play 42 dominoes - Learn the game of 42 every Wednesday from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@ cstx.gov for more information.

42 dominoes - Adults 55 and up meet every Thursday to play 42 at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. New players welcome. For more details, contact 979-764-6351 or mrodgers@ cstx.gov.

Bible study – Bible study is held for seniors 9:1510:30 a.m. every Thursday at Lincoln Center, 1000 Eleanor St. in College Station. Contact 979-764-3779 or awilliams@cstx.gov for more information.

Maj Jongg - Adults 55 and older interested in learning the game will meet at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station on Thursdays from 9 to 11:30 a.m. For more information, contact 764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Game Night - Seniors are invited to Game Night

from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station.

Table games and dominoes provided or bring your own favorite game. Meet friends and enjoy a fun game night. For more information contact 979-7646371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Forevercise - Forevercise is a free exercise class for ages 55 and up, offered on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays from 1:30–3 p.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Class offers individuals healthy lifestyle practices with helpful tips on nutrition and exercise. Exercises may be done while standing or sitting in a chair. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx. gov.

Dominoes - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays dominoes all day on Tuesdays and Fridays and from noon to closing Wednesdays. Sack lunch for those playing dominoes from 11:30 a.m. to noon Wednesdays. For more details: 979-822-6873/www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.

Bridge – Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays Bridge from 12:30 p.m. until closing on Tuesdays; noon to closing on Thursdays; and 12:20 p.m. to closing Fridays. Partner needed Tuesdays and Thursdays. For more details: 979-822-6873 or www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.

Games - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays board games, Scrabble and other card games on Tuesdays. For more details: 979-822-6873/www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.

Bible study - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, holds Bible study 9:15 to 9:45 a.m. on Wednesdays. For more information, call 979-822-6873 or visit www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.

Exercise class - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, holds exercise class 9:45 to 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays.

For more details, call 979-822-6873 or visit www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.

Bingo - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays Bingo 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesdays. For more details: 979-822-6873 or www.brazoscountyseniorcitizens. weebly.com.

Canasta - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, plays Canasta from 11:30 a.m. to closing on Thursdays.

For more details, call 979-822-6873 or visit www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.

Potluck luncheon - Brazos County Senior Citizens Association, 1402 Bristol St. in Bryan, has a potluck luncheon 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Fridays. For more, call 979-822-6873 or visit www. brazoscountyseniorcitizens.weebly.com.

One-on-one computer help - 6 to 8 p.m.

Mondays and Saturdays at Larry J. Ringer Library, 1818 Harvey Mitchell Pkwy. S. in College Station.

Contact the Reference Desk to schedule a 30-minute session, at 979-764-3416. For more information, visit www.bcslibrary.org.

April 5

See Calendar page 11

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED See Calendar page 11

Wednesday • May 10, 2017 9aM – 2pM • 2 hour shifts

TO THE

TY EXPO CO COUN MP LE ZOS D ROAD • B A BR 7 LEONAR RYA X 2 N 8 5

ON SPONSORED BY

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Contact Ashley Gonzales to sign up: agonzales@standardshhh.com 979-777-9926 volunteers Will be asked to:

Greet guests • Drive golf carts Manage tickets • Pass out door prizes Set up • Clean up T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

Calendar

from page 10 Computer Club for Seniors - 3D Printers The Computer Club is open to all adults 55 and up.

Meetings are held at the Carter Creek Training Room located at the Waste Water Treatment Plant, 2200 North Forest Parkway in College Station at 9:30 a.m.

No pre-registration needed. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/seniors.

April 6 “Shattered: Surviving the book signing – Held 5:30-7:30 222 North Main St. in Bryan. will make a short presentation refreshments will be served.

Loss of a Child” p.m. at Café Capri, Author Gary Roe at 6:30 p.m. Light

April 12 “Strictly Business: Dispute Resolution Center - Monthly presentations about local businesses are offered at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, from 11a.m. – noon.

No pre-registration required. For more information, contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/seniors.

The Woman’s Club House and Garden Tour The tour, showcasing three homes in the Traditions neighborhood in Bryan, will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Luncheon will be held continuously from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at The Woman’s Club, 1200 Carter Creek Parkway in Bryan. The homes are at: 3320 Sycamore Trail; 3216 Elm Creek Court; and 3328 Sycamore Trail. Tour tickets can be purchased for $15 on the day of the event at any of the homes.

Tickets may also be purchased in advance by contacting 979-822-5019, or thewomansclubbcs@ verizon.net. Luncheon tickets are also $15, and may be purchased by contacting Sandra Petty at 979229-9945 or e-mailing her at spetty@suddenlink.net.

April 13 World Passport Program – Nambia – Seniors are invited to attend this free program sponsored by Texas A&M Public Partnership and Outreach and the College Station Parks and Recreation Department.

Held at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, at 2:30 p.m. Learn about the culture and economy and sample foods typical of the country. No reservations needed. For more information, contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-7646371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/seniors.

April 18 Nutritional Education - Texas A&M AgriLife Extension offers monthly cooking demos with new recipes and food choices for healthy living. Join other seniors 60 and up at Lincoln Center, at 1000 Eleanor T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

in College Station, from 10:30 –11:30 a.m. For more information, contact Annie Williams at 979-764-3779.

Beginning Computer 101 Class - Held 9-10:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from April 18-27, at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Learn basic computer skills and how to use the internet and email. Cost is $45.

To register visit rectrac.cstx.gov or call 979-7643486. For more information, contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov or visit cstx. gov/seniors.

Computer 102 Class – Held 10:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays from April 1827, at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Basic computer skills are required. Class offers instruction on tool bar functions, formatting documents, use of picture tools, printers and more. Cost is $45. To register visit rectrac.cstx.gov or call 979-764-3486. For more information, contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-7646371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/seniors.

April 19 Family History Computer Group: “Cemeteries - learn how to find where your family is buried”Open to adults 55 and up. The group shares an interest in researching family history and storing it on a computer. Meetings are held on the third Wednesday of the month at Carter Creek Training Room at the Waste Water Treatment Plant, 2200 N. Forest Parkway in College Station from 9:30-11 a.m.

No registration is required. For more information, contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/seniors.

Exploring History Luncheon: “Bernardo Galvez” - The College Station Historic Preservation Committee and the College Station Parks and Recreation Department present monthly lectures on the history of the community. Luncheons are held at Aldersgate Church at 2201 Earl Rudder Freeway S. in College Station. A reservation is necessary for lunch and the cost is $7. Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m. Speaker will begin at noon. RSVP by April 14 at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov .

April 20 Spring Dance - Adults 55 and up are invited to an evening of dancing with a live DJ at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, 7-9 p.m. There will be door prizes and light refreshments. No reservation needed. For more information, contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-7646371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/seniors.

April 24 Senior Advisory Committee meeting - The Senior Advisory Committee meets on the last Monday of the month to discuss programs and activities for adults 55 and up. Held at Southwood Community

Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station at 10 a.m. Visitors welcome. For more information contact 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov or cstx.gov/seniors

April 27 World Passport Program - Micronesia - Seniors are invited to attend this free program sponsored by Texas A&M Public Partnership and Outreach and the College Station Parks and Recreation Department.

Held at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, at 2:30 p.m. Learn about the culture and economy and sample foods typical of the country. No reservations needed. For more information, contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-7646371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov or visit cstx.gov/seniors.

April 28 Bingo & Birthday Celebration - Join on the last Friday of each month from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station, for bingo and cake to celebrate September birthdays. Prizes. Call 979764-6351 for more information.

April 29 College Station Parks & Recreation Open House - Learn about senior programs, youth camps, special events, aquatics, athletics and library activities offered this summer by the Parks Department from 9 a.m.–noon at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Light refreshments and onsite registration available. For more details, contact 979-764-3486 or visit cstx.gov/ seniors.

IN-HOME SENIOR CARE SERVICES

Interactive Caregiving

®

Makes Every Moment Matter Interactive Caregiving® is the unique way our Comfort Keepers® deliver care to our clients. It centers on four interrelated aspects – engagement of the mind, an active body, proper nutrition, and safety. A plan of Care which addresses these aspects, together, will enhance quality of life and ultimately, independence.

SERVICES

Companion Care • Personal Care Light Housekeeping In-Home Safety Solutions

(979) 764-3076

244 Southwest Parkway East • College Station, TX 77840

w w w. s e n i o r c a r e c o l l e g e s t a t i o n . c o m

April 4, 2017 | 11

G et to a H e a l th i e r

Place

Introducing the MatureWell Lifestyle Center.

A one-of-a-kind new health complex for adults 55 and older N ow Op en !

Developed in partnership with Texas A&M Health Science Center, the MatureWell Lifestyle Center from CHI St. Joseph Health is a one-of-a-kind health complex especially designed to meet the unique health and wellness needs of people like you.

With a gym and indoor heated pool, fitness coaching and nutritional counseling, educational classes, physical therapy, and a board-certified Internal Medicine Physician who specializes in the treatment of adults age 55 and older on site, you’ll find all the essential health resources you need under one roof. Plus, services can be easily coordinated with your Primary Care Physician.

Now Open! Sign up for updates and learn more about our complimentary services and those covered by insurance or fees at MatureWell.CHIStJosephHealth.org.

Located on the campus of Traditions Club at 3989 N Shore Drive, Bryan, TX 77807

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T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E