Seasoned

seasoned

Jun e 2016

Over 50 & living the good life!

Physical therapy Help for pain after surgery

Financial planning

How to transition into retirement

Art therapy

Creative classes provide artistic outlet, stress relief

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

3 4 5 6 8 9 10

DISPLAY ADVERTISING MANAGER Linda Brinkman SPECIAL PROJECTS EDITOR/ PUBLICATION DESIGNER Shauna Lewis

shauna.lewis@theeagle.com

Contents

Help for pain after surgery Better aging through chemistry Honoring the past without getting stuck there Feature story: Creative classes in B-CS Living options abound for retirees How to transition into retirement Calendar

Services Include Nursing:

www.healthquesthomehealth.com

Kimberly John, LVN Trini Perez, Owner Cody John, Marketing

Locally Owned and Family Operated “At HealthQuest, we understand that quality home health care begins with respect, compassion, and understanding.”

- Trini Perez, Owner

HealthQuest Home Health Phone: 979-846-7870

Payment Options: Medicare (covers 100% in most cases) •Medicaid • Limited Private Insurance • Self-Pay • Worker’s Comp 2 | June 7, 2016

(but are not limited to)

• Medication Administration • Diabetic Management • Blood Pressure Monitoring • Wound Care/Wound V.A.C. • Catheter Care • Colostomy Care • Enteral Feeding • PEG Care • PICC Central Line Care • IV Therapy

Medical Social Work:

Certified Nurse Aide:

• Bathing • Toileting • Dressing • Linen Changes

Therapy:

• Physical Therapy • Ultrasound Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Speech Therapy

MSW helps with social and emotional concerns related to the patient’s illness. That includes, but is not limited to, the education of community resources.

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

Help for pain after surgery

Reader question: I’m 52 years old, and I fractured my right ankle one year ago. I had to have plates and screws put in to fix my broken bones. Unfortunately, after one year since my surgery I still have pain in my ankle and calf. I can’t even walk or stand for very long due to pain.

I’ve had a hard time going to the store, standing to fix dinner and cleaning my home.

I thought my pain would be gone by now and I’d be able to walk without discomfort. At times, I even walk with a small limp. Why do I still have pain?

I should be walking better by now – right? My rehab went OK. What else can I do at this point?

Your Leon Bradway concern Physical Therapy is valid.

You raise important questions about continued post-surgical pain problems including not able to walk correctly without pain.

Yes, you should be walking much better after one year and your pain level should be almost non-existent. What you have described to me is chronic pain and joint motion problems. Chronic pain has both physical and emotional components. Not only do you feel pain constantly that affects you daily, but pain is very fatiguing and can spiral you downward feeling depressed and hopeless.

Anyone who suffers from post-surgical pain and motion problems can still be helped, without medication and injections, from a continued rehab program. In your case, even after a year you can still receive help and see great rehab benefits! I say this because the foot and ankle

are very complex joints. They require specific attention during the rehab process to ensure correct soft tissue mobility for motion and a normal walking pattern.

I can assure you that your persistent pain and walking problems are because of soft tissue and foot/ankle joint restrictions that have not yet been adequately evaluated or addressed. Because of your pain and loss of motion, your muscles are weak and will fatigue quickly, adding to your pain problems. It’s one thing to fix the fractured bones, but another important task that requires expertise in human movement and joint soft tissue healing structures is physical therapy.

When it comes to musculoskeletal pathology and recovery for human motion, physical therapists are the experts. Anyone who has ever fractured or dislocated an ankle knows the difficulty you can experience from postoperative swelling, significant joint motion restrictions, learning how to walk again and pain suffering.

The rehabilitation process for a fractured ankle is a slow but a progressive process.

It is important early in the rehabilitation period to control swelling and dampen the pain sensation.

Examples for treatments include: soft tissue work to dampen the pain, gentle movement of the joint (both foot and ankle), controlling swelling, discussing home precautions that help to minimize discomfort and swelling, self-massage, hot and cold treatments, and engaging in a progressive mobility and resistance program to correct guarding and abnormal ankle movement patterns.

There is no substitute for one-on-one professional care in post-surgical recovery

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

success. If you are still having pain of 4/10 or greater two to three months after your operation, you may need an additional evaluation to determine why the pain continues. An evaluation can be done by your physical therapist.

However, based on your case, it is likely that the muscles and joint capsule surrounding the surgical area may be tight (restricted), causing motion restrictions leading to your pain.

Your physical therapist will help you fully recover by obtaining as much history from you as possible to determine how you were injured, what your recovery rehabilitation consisted of, what continues to give you pain, and what you have been doing since rehab discharge.

Below is what you should expect: 1. A 2015 physical therapist will evaluate muscles surrounding the ankle joint, the way you walk (gait), swelling, and why you continue to have persistent ankle and foot pain. You will get an answer of why you continue to have problems.

2. Next, the physical therapist will design a program to address your pain and mobility problems, which likely

are: restricted muscles and joints; guarding (changing the way you move to avoid pain, creating more problems); and abnormal movement patterns that continue to inhibit your recovery 3. Physical therapy will begin treatments such as but not limited to: • Trigger point dry needling to help with the pain system • Manual therapy to move and or stretch the muscles and joints • Progressive correction of abnormal movement patterns.

• Slow but progressive resistance program Physical therapy is a natural pain management process. It takes time to decrease swelling, decrease pain and correct abnormal movement patterns that

have developed over the last year. Muscles have to be reeducated, re-strengthened, and relearn to regain normal movement.

Don’t wait and see if your ankle problems will eventually improve. I can tell you nothing will improve unless you seek additional help. In the state of Texas you can be evaluated by a physical therapist without a referral, so contact an experienced therapist today.

A doctor’s referral is required in Texas for treatment, but in most cases the doctor will be happy to assist you with the referral if they are familiar with your case.

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

June 7, 2016 | 3

Better aging through chemistry: A daily anti-aging regimen The price we pay for living is dying. That is, to stay alive, our body must burn oxygen, and that process inevitably yields toxic metabolites called free radicals. Free radicals are highly reactive because the outer shell of electrons is incomplete. Atoms are attracted to other atoms with incomplete electron shells. That is, they share electrons to form a chemical bond. An atom that has a full outer shell tends not to enter into chemical reactions.

The damage comes from the free radical stripping of electrons off of target atoms and converting them into a chain-reaction production of free radicals. This changes the target atoms so that Dr. Bill Klemm The Memory Medic their normal function is disabled. Such damage occurs in all sorts of molecules, including the vital molecules RNA and DNA. So how do antioxidant chemicals help? They neutralize radicals by donating electrons to complete the outer shells of free radicals without becoming free radicals themselves.

Think of antioxidants as scavengers that go around scooping up free radicals and neutralizing them.

Fortunately, nature provides us with chemicals that reduce the amount of free radicals. These are called antioxidants because they neutralize free radicals by donating one of their own electrons, ending the electronstealing reaction. The antioxidant nutrients thus reduce cell and tissue damage. The best way to get these antioxidants is through eating a good diet. However, as we age, diet is often insufficient to provide enough antioxidants, and we need to increase our intake with supplement pills or capsules.

The table (right) suggests a daily regimen of healthful chemicals, antioxidants and a couple of other chemicals that slow aging even though they are not antioxidants. The idea is that combining different types of antioxidants and other substances known to slow aging should expand the breadth of their coverage and produce additive beneficial effects. Maybe they would act synergistically so that the benefits are super-additive — that is, more than the sum of the benefits of each individual antioxidant. This idea

has never been tested to my knowledge, but it seems so plausible that I think we would all benefit from the combination.

The most benefit might occur when the antioxidants are taken on an empty stomach. It is likely that some portion of an antioxidant can be inactivated or sequestered by binding with food and thus reducing the absorption into the blood stream.

Avoid using sugar, as many are tempted to do with the coffee, tea or chocolate. I recommend using artificial sweetener.

Omega-3 fatty acids are powerfully anti-inflammatory. Inflammation is a major cause of aging, and these fatty acids, found also in deep sea fish, have well-proven strong benefits on aging.

Finally, I add that other factors also have major anti-aging effects, such as regular exercise and weight control.

Regular doctor checkups become increasingly necessary as one ages.

I have written about some of these antioxidants before (see references below). Two of the substances on my wellness list, cocoa and melatonin, have not been discussed in my previous blogs. In animal studies, cocoa has been shown to improve memory and to increase brain levels of a chemical (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) that promotes connections between neurons. A recent study in seniors revealed that 900 mg of cocoa powder per day for three months produced significant improvements in formal thinking tests. Brain scans showed measurable increases of cerebral blood volume in the hippocampus, the area of the brain that promotes memory formation.

Melatonin has two benefits. It is not only a powerful antioxidant, but if taken just before bedtime, it helps you have a sound and more resting sleep.

I can’t say that this regimen will make you live longer. But it will make you live better. I know this from personal experience, now that I am about to turn 82. If you have health

4 | June 7, 2016

problems, this regimen will surely help. However, you should check with your physician to identify anything on this list that would be contra-indicated for your particular problem.

omega-3-fatty-acid-supplementsimprove.html Readers wanting to know more about slowing aging and boosting brain function should get Memory Medic’s e-book, “Improve Your Memory for a Healthy Brain. Memory Is the Canary in Your Brain’s Coal Mine” for 99 cents at Smashwords.com.

Sources: http://thankyoubrain.blogspot. com/2010/04/vitamin-d-wondervitamin.html http://thankyoubrain.

IN-HOME SENIOR CARE SERVICES blogspot.com/2010/03/ ® vitamin-d-and-memory. html http://thankyoubrain. blogspot.com/2009/02/eatyour-bblueberries-butInteractive Caregiving® is the unique way our Comfort Keepers® not-with.html deliver care to our clients. It centers on four interrelated aspects http://thankyoubrain. – engagement of the mind, an active body, proper nutrition, and blogspot.com/2010/04/ safety. A plan of Care which addresses these aspects, together, resveratrol-red-winewill enhance quality of life and ultimately, independence. magic-chemical.html

Interactive Caregiving Makes Every Moment Matter

http://thankyoubrain. blogspot.com/2014/06/ health-benefits-ofresveratrol-new.html http://thankyoubrain. blogspot.com/2009/01/ caffeine-or-nap-whichhelps-memory.html http://thankyoubrain. blogspot.com/2010/02/ more-on-benefits-ofblueberries.html http://thankyoubrain. blogspot.com/2007/04/

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

Honoring the past without getting stuck there

A few months back, my wife Jen and I were treated to a performance of The Million Dollar Quartet - a musical reenactment of the historic evening that brought together Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins. It was a foot-stomping, hand-clapping, sing-a-long delight -- a wonderful trip back in time.

I closed my eyes and saw myself sitting with my parents in the Pioneer Restaurant in Wichita Falls (where I grew up), gazing into a new-fangled miniature juke box attached to the back of the booth. I was Gary Roe Hospice thrilled. I could play Elvis, Johnny or Jerry Lee right from my seat! Back then, that was high tech.

TV was black and white with three channels. Changing the channel involved real exercise (you had to get up and actually turn the knob); prime time was clean; and every day’s programming ended with the “StarSpangled Banner.” When I watched the first color episode of “Hogan’s Heroes,” I thought, “Wow! Life can’t get any better than this!”

Phones had cords. No answering machines. No voice mail. Videos didn’t exist (at least, not for the average individual). If you wanted to see a movie, you went to the theater. If you were out on the road and needed to communicate, you found a pay phone.

“Boy, never leave home without a dime in your pocket,” my dad said.

In elementary school, I spent every afternoon at the corner drug store, eating a grilled cheese or a vanilla double-dip cone (for 15 cents) while I waited for my mom to get off work. The store owner even allowed me to read the new comic books, as long as they went back into the rack in the same condition as I took them out in. Life was different. I could share a lot more.

I know you could, too.

Now, every day I rise early to the alarm of my mini-computer (also known as a smart phone). I spend the first hour and half or so reading my Bible, writing in my journal, catching up on the news and seeing what my friends all over the world have been up to - all from my slightly larger laptop computer. I grab my coffee and breakfast, slip my mini-computer into a bag with my slightly larger laptop T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

and make a difference in this everchanging world, I better heed it.

Chances are this world is nothing like we remember it growing up.

Perhaps things aren’t the way we want them to be. Maybe we’re concerned about the future, or even frightened of what might be down the road. We could live in denial, wish the world was different, and hide our heads in the sand. We could hunker down, bide our time, hope for the best, and pray for a peaceful exit. Surely we were meant for more than this. But what can we do in the face of such powerful change? Here are three suggestions: 1. Pass on as much wisdom as possible. You’ve seen life. You’ve got decades of experience under your belt.

Share it. Tell the stories. Pass on what you’ve learned. History is important.

The rearview mirror is crucial. If we forget where we came from, we’re in trouble.

2. Be as positive as possible. Our world has enough negativity. No matter how the bigger picture may seem to be going, everyone can make a difference where they are. Everyone. Be that

computer, and hustle out the door into my much larger computer (also known as my car). After 25 minutes or so of dodging other large, four-wheel computers, I arrive at the office, where I log onto to my desktop computer to see what happened during the night, so I can plan my day.

All day long, my mini-computersmart-phone beeps, chirps and honks, signaling I have a new email, secure work message, new voice mail or text message. After entering all the relevant notes on my desktop computer, I climb back into my maxi-computer (automobile) and zip around visiting patients and families, occasionally checking my laptop for any new assignments stored for me on “the cloud.” Sheesh.

Let me make something clear. I am not a techy. I’m remedial at best when it comes to this stuff. I learn what I can, and probably know just enough to be dangerous. I click with caution. My kids, on the other hand, have no fear with it comes to all this technology.

Heedless of all consequences, they click on anything and everything with amazing, almost incomprehensible speed. I can’t watch their screens without getting dizzy.

Life is not what it was, and it’s not now what it will be. Hang on tight. We live in a world of daily, exponential change. Everything is rapid and quick.

The way we do everything – business, relationships, parenting, family, church, healthcare, investing, etc. – has changed and is changing. Information assaults us from every direction. The average attention span is 8 seconds.

The question is, “What do we do with this?”

Several years ago, my adoptive parents gave me a creative, unusual present: a rearview mirror (like the one mounted in every car). As I pulled it from the bag, I sent them a questioning glance. They smiled and said something like, “Gary, rearview mirrors serve a crucial purpose. Knowing what’s behind you is important. Never forget where you came from – the victories, blessings, lessons and hardships.

But all those things are designed to take you somewhere. So, accept this little gift as a reminder: glance in the rearview mirror, but gaze through the windshield. Don’t live looking backward. Keep moving forward.”

What great advice. If I want to live well

difference, where you are. Teach that.

Cultivate hope in your heart and spread it generously to all around you.

3. Learn as much as possible. Don’t quit. Stay engaged. Keep seeking and learning. Don’t go dormant. You’re more important than you know. This world needs you. Now. Every morning, I look at the rearview mirror sitting on my bedroom dresser. “Today, glance in the rearview mirror, gaze through the windshield,” I tell myself. Never forget where you came from, but don’t get stuck there.

Let your past propel you forward.

Glance back. Gaze forward.

Pass on the wisdom. Be as positive as possible. Cultivate hope, and spread it generously. Make a difference where you are, and teach others to do the same. You might have more impact than you dreamed possible.

Gary Roe is an author, speaker and chaplain with Hospice Brazos Valley.

His latest book, “Please Be Patient, I’m Grieving” has already been a No. 1 Amazon best seller. Visit www.garyroe. com or contact him at 979-821-2266 or groe@hospicebrazosvalley.org.

The Most Important Thing in any Relationship 2015

Robert Herring, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology

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

June 7, 2016 | 5

Art th

Creative classes in Bryan-College Stat

By STACY CANTU Special to The Eagle

There are several benefits to creating works of art, and seniors in the Bryan-College Station area can easily experience these through a variety of classes offered locally.

“Creative activities such as painting, drawing or writing help seniors stay mentally active and touches on the physical through hand-eye coordination,” said Hailey Herrera, watercolor instructor.

“Creative activities can also provide a departure from the everyday or mundane. Creating art or participating in artistic endeavors can improve mind elasticity, and completion of a creative project, like a finished art piece, can certainly bring on positive feelings or sensations--such as a sense of accomplishment, pride, joy, beauty, or the appreciation thereof.”

Classes that will be offered at Southwood Community Center through the City of College Station this summer are Drawing I, Drawing II, Drawing Portraits, Watercolor I and Watercolor II. Drawing I is a beginning drawing class designed to give students a solid foundation in the basics of drawing, including basic theory, perspective and principles for compositions. Basic drawing supplies are required for class. This class is for ages 18 and older, and will be held from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Wednesdays from July 6 to July 27.

The cost is $45.

Drawing II is a continuation of the beginning drawing class or a great class for a seasoned beginner. Basic drawing supplies are required for class. This class, for ages 18 and older, will be held from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Wednesdays from Aug. 3 to Aug. 31. The cost is $45.

“The seniors that take my classes are always delighted with what they are able to create,” said Bonnie Palmer, instructor for both drawing classes. “Many begin thinking they have no art talent, and hence come with very low expectations. By about the third lesson, they are excited by their unexpected successes and generally end up signing up for future classes. I love teaching the classes, and try to keep it lighthearted, fun and uplifting as opposed to teaching a highly structured classroom or a workbook-led sort of situation.”

Palmer also mentioned the many benefits of taking her class.

“The students are able to use the right side of their brain when they do art and are learning new things which actually stimulates the firing of neurons and continually building new neural pathways, keeping the brain alert,” Palmer said. “As another side effect, the budding artists are able to relax as they are drawing, causing serotonin and other great brain chemicals to be released. A relaxed brain allows the body to heal better --stress has the opposite effect -- as well as the psychological benefits it also leads to. The classes tend to be chatty, so the students all get to know each other extremely well. The lasting friendships the students form also has a positive effect on their overall well-being. The students often meet away from class for lunches and other activities after being

introduced in my classes.”

Watercolor I is a beginner’s course to get the student’s brush moving. The focus will be on basic painting tools and materials, watercolor painting techniques, composition, color theory and the art of watercolor. Supplies will be discussed during the first class meeting. Basic drawing skills are needed for this class. This class, for ages 18 and older, will be held from 9 a.m. to noon on Tuesdays from June 7 to July 12. A second session will be held the same days from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The cost of this class is $45.

Watercolor II is a continuation class in the study of the art of watercolor. Students should bring watercolor supplies to the first class. This class will be held from 9 a.m. to noon on Tuesdays from July 19 to Aug. 23. A second class will be held these days from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The cost is $45.

“In my watercolor class, seniors can expect tips and guidance through the paintings process to finish their projects at his/her pace,” Herrera said. “Rather than learning the fundamentals of watercolor through a lecture, students learn watercolor techniques while they paint a wide range of subjects, such as still life, landscape, floral and animals, etc. Since students are allowed to use their own reference images, they pick images according to their skill level and create paintings that truly inspire them.”

“In addition to subject matter, seniors have chances to experiment on different surfaces and textures,” Herrera added.

“I encourage students to expand their boundaries and explore possibilities.

Students in my class are pleased to connect with their inner talent, to create paintings and enjoy decorating their walls with their own paintings.”

Herrera noted that her watercolor class has evolved over time.

“I am an artist who loves experimentation,” she said. “As I encounter them, I occasionally introduce new techniques and materials to students. In addition, different or new projects are offered each session. Repeat students, of which I have several, benefit from and enjoy creating new paintings every session they attend.”

The City of College Station will also offer Drawing Portraits for ages 18 and older.

This class will be held from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Wednesdays from July 6 to July 27 at the Wolf Pen Creek Green Room. The cost is $45.

6 | June 7, 2016

Palmer, who will also instruct t typically bring in a picture of their or grandchildren, to draw. Howeve material students can use if they p “Their families love getting the love hearing the stories that come For more information on any o gov or email parks@cstx.gov.

Libraries in the Bryan/College art classes this summer.

The Larry J Ringer Library, at South in College Station, will offer Coloring for Adults Class.

The Hand Lettering Class will b will be taught by Jessica Albers fro

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

herapy

tion provide artistic outlet, stress relief

this class, said that students r choice, usually of their children er, she always has subject prefer. eir portraits drawn or painted, so I from that,” she said. of these classes, visit www.cstx.

e Station area will also be offering

1818 Harvey Mitchell Parkway r a Hand Lettering Class and a

be held at 2 p.m. on June 25, and om Reveleigh and Co. The class is

free.

“Hand lettering is the art of drawing letters,” said Hilary Crowder, reference librarian. “Similar to calligraphy, you can use hand lettering for invitations, wall art, cards, posters or anything that needs beautiful writing.”

Coloring for Adults sessions have been held every month this year.

“We provide coloring pages, bookmarks, markers and colored pencils, or people can bring their own supplies, and we spend an hour and a half coloring together,” Clowder said. “Everyone knows that coloring is very popular right now, but it can be a very solitary activity. Coloring together at the library gives you a space to relax without being alone. Generally this program is the second Thursday of the month at 5:30, but during our Summer Reading Program our schedule is different, and we will have our next coloring program on Monday, July 25 at 6 p.m. We are also encouraging people to bring their finished coloring pages to display at this program. People always wonder what to do with the finished product, and we want to share this art with the community.”

Clowder also discussed the importance of creating works of art.

“Creating art is not only a great way to express yourself and help relieve stress, it can be a fun way to get involved in the community,” she said. “Taking art classes, or participating in the library’s free art programs can help you meet others interested in the same things and keep you engaged with adults of all ages.”

For more information on these classes contact the library at 764-3416.

The Clara B. Mounce library, at 201 E. 26th St in Bryan, also offers adult coloring programs.

“We had several adult coloring programs over the past few months on a Thursday evening,” said Deborah Callaway, adult/juvenile services librarian.

“We are about to begin something new with adult coloring. I have just ordered some giant coloring posters to secure to tables on the first floor of the library. We have a huge box of colored pencils in a variety of colors. Adults can sit down and color whenever they want as long as the library is open.”

This program is expected to begin in early June.

For more information, contact the library at 2095600.

In addition to these classes, seniors can also enjoy painting a work of art at places such as Painting with a Twist, at 1643 Texas Ave. South in College Station, and Pinot’s Palette, at 1800 Texas

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

Ave. South, Suite H, in College Station.

“We all know that art can affect people in a positive way,” said Painting with a Twist owner Kim Augsburger. “Art is proven to enhance an individual’s overall well-being and quality of life. At Painting with a Twist, they not only can do something completely out of their comfort zone, but have fun doing it. We don’t teach fine art --- it’s fun art.”

The business offers classes, and individuals book a class they want to attend.

“We have everything they need to create their masterpiece their smock, canvas on the easel, paint, brushes, music and all the fun,” Augsburger said. “All they do is bring whatever food and beverage they want to consume. Some bring wine or beer; others just bring their tea or pop.”

According to Augsburger, since the classes are taught step-bystep, stroke-by-stroke, students do a great job of following along and creating a piece of art of which to be proud.

“Our classes are for anyone from 6 years to 106,” she said. “We don’t have enough fun in our lives - and we are told all the time that when they came in that front door they forgot all their problems for that two-plus hours they were there. It’s about making memories that will last a lifetime.”

For more information, contact Painting With A Twist at 314-4280, or visit paintingwithatwist.com/college-station.

Pinot’s Palette is another studio where seniors can paint in a fun atmosphere.

“Our mission is to bring art to the masses in a fun and entertaining manner,” said Diana Vasquez, studio manager. “We bring out your inner artist in a fun atmosphere that takes the fear out of painting.”

The studio offers an affordable mini-canvas class on Tuesdays that is $16.

“Painting can challenge imagination,” Vasquez said. “The process of utilizing various tools and blending different colors can keep the mind active. Our artists are patient, encouraging and will teach step by step in a comfortable, relaxing atmosphere.”

For more information on Pinot’s Palette, call 696-4300 or visit pinotspalette.com/collegestation.

There are many benefits that come along with creating art, and the Bryan-College Station area is full of opportunities for seniors to experience them all.

Larry Koeninger, library system director for the Bryan-College Station Public Library System, noted that stress relief is often listed as the main benefit.

“Many compare it to yoga as a form of relaxation,” he said. “Art also provides a means of communication of emotions and our inner selves. Creating art in a group can also help older adults who have a sense of isolation.”

June 7, 2016 | 7

Living options abound for retirees

(MC) - Senior living communities often present an affordable and comfortable option for adults over the age of 55. Filled with like-minded and similarly aged residents, these communities can be the right fit for individuals no longer interested in or capable of taking care of a larger home.

Senior communities are located all across the country. Finding one that meets your needs takes only a little research.

Although they are often moderately priced and offer a variety of amenities, senior living communities sometimes suffer from a bad reputation. But such communities are not the “old age homes” that some people purport them to be. Rather, they’re entire living neighborhoods that cater to the needs of an active resident base. These communities can range from independent living private homes or condos to managed care facilities. Residents may be able to enjoy organized outings, recreation, shopping and socialization without having to venture far from property grounds. Some communities offer food services or an on-site restaurant.

Fifty-five and older communities

offer conveniences that many find irresistible. They’re frequently located close to shopping, dining and healthcare providers. Taxes, insurance, utilities and maintenance expenses may be covered in one fee.

Clubhouses, golf courses, lakes, card rooms and many other offerings are designed to appeal to residents of many ages.

Now that baby boomers have reached the age where retirement communities are a consideration, there has been an influx of interest. Those considering a move to one of these communities should research some information before purchasing a unit.

• Determine the fees associated with a community. Can Medicaid or long-term care insurance pay for all or a portion of the fees? Which types of services does the monthly fee cover?

• Who is eligible to live in the community? Some restrict all residents to a particular age, while others do not. Rules may be in effect that include an age cut-off limit.

• Investigate the types of residents and who would be your immediate neighbors. What

percentage of people live in the community all year long, and how many are part-time residents?

• Look into the particular home owner’s association rules. Bylaws may indicate that the property must be kept in a certain manner. You may not be able to paint exterior items a certain color, nor put up fencing or set up outdoor patio furniture.

Get the details before you sign anything.

• Is this the type of community where you can age in place? Meaning, are there separate accommodations if you eventually need assisted living care?

Some communities offer living options that vary depending on residents’ ages.

• Be sure there are activities or amenities that appeal to you. You eventually want to find your niche and get together with a group of friends who share the same interests.

• You may want to find a community close to your children

or other relatives. This way you will not have to travel far to visit others, and they will be able to visit you easily in return.

• Some communities are gated, which can increase feelings of safety. If this is a priority, look for housing under security.

Following these guidelines can mean discovering a community where anyone can feel comfortable for years to come.

Moving abroad after retirement (MC) - Many couples look to downsize once they retire. Empty nest retirees may no longer need their large family homes, which can be expensive and difficult for seniors to maintain. While some retirees choose to move into senior living communities or condominiums, some opt to be a bit more adventurous and venture farther from home.

A number of retirees choose to spend their golden years abroad. Doing so can equate to a more adventurous retirement, a lower cost of living and the ability to stretch retirement savings much further than if you decided to stay closer to home. Many of the more popular international retirement locations offer beautiful climates, culture and health care systems that are hospitable to retirees.

Affordability is a key consideration for men and women mulling whether to retire internationally.

According to U.S. News and World Report, retiring overseas may run the average person anywhere from $700 to $1,500 per month. Those who can offer higher budgets may be able to retire to any location of their

choosing.

See Choosing a location page 9

Comfort is our Specialty.

Trust is our Promise.

Bryan: 979-821-2266 Brenham: 979-277-9525 La Grange: 979-968-6913 Inpatient Facility: 979-821-5030 www.hospicebrazosvalley.org

8 | June 7, 2016

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

How to transition into retirement

If you are thinking about retirement, you need to start thinking about shifting your mindset from focusing on accumulating wealth to distributing wealth and drawing from your resources. But that’s only part of preparing for retirement. It’s not just about the money. There are a number of non-financial aspects to having a successful retirement.

Run your numbers The first financial consideration is being aware of whether your resources will match your expenses. Project your annual living expenses and include a compounded inflation estimate. I TracY Stewart prefer to work with Financial Literacy annual expenses so I don’t accidentally miss an annual or semi-annual bill. Total up your annual income. Start with predictable sources such as Social Security income, pension checks and annuities. Compare your total inflow to your total outflow.

If you have a shortfall, you will need to look to your savings, including your IRAs, 401(k) and 403(b) accounts to pick up the slack. Don’t have enough? You’ll need to cut back on your expectations.

Fortunately, the best things in life are free.

Choosing a location from page 8

Before you make any drastic changes, first calculate your retirement budget. Add up retirement savings, Social Security income (if applicable), pensions and any other investments or savings you may have. Have an estimate of the market value of your current home and any other property you may own. These figures will be your working numbers. Subtract your age from your estimated life expectancy and divide the retirement funds sum by that many years to see how much per month you will have to spend.

Once you have established your budget, begin investigating where T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

your Social Security benefit.

When to retire?

The earlier you retire, the sooner you’ll have to start pulling money out of your retirement savings instead of growing the pot with your contributions. This combination of less growth and more drain on your portfolio can make a huge negative difference even if you retire only a few years early.

The earlier you retire, the longer you will live in retirement and the greater the chance that inflation will eat away at your standard of living.

So, the earlier you plan to retire, the greater the importance of including inflation in your projections.

If you have a pension, retiring early may mean a lower pension check for the rest of your life. This is called a reduced pension benefit. Be sure to find out whether and how much your pension payout will be reduced if you retire at various early ages. If you have a survivor spouse, remember to also calculate the financial impact of a reduced pension benefit on his or her lifetime income.

You probably already know that you can start taking Social Security benefits as early as age 62. But do you know that, depending on when you were born, your Social Security check may be reduced by as much as 20 to 30 percent from your full retirement age benefit at age 65 to 67? Think carefully and seek professional advice from a financial planner before you sign up for

Pitfalls of not being emotionally ready • Loss of structure – This is one of the biggest adjustments for retirees.

Transitioning from very little free time to totally unstructured time can be staggering. Handling this takes a great deal of self-discipline.

• Loss of identity - Many of us identify ourselves with our careers.

Think of yourself as retiring to something, not just from something.

• Fear of mortality – Notice that I did not use the D word. There is a lot of superstition around this topic. Those who feel their business is their life can actually feel that their life is done when they stop working. If this sounds like you, find a new challenge and/or ease into volunteer work.

• Marital discord – There are a number of reasons why marital discord pops up when retirement strikes. In some relationships, the problems have been pushed aside when both spouses have been busy working. Once retired, the problems move to front and center.

Then there is the traditional home where the husband retires to play golf or do what he wants to do while the wife is expected to continue doing the cooking, cleaning and washing.

Resentment can drive her to file for divorce.

you would like to live. Argentina, Ecuador, Belize, Costa Rica, and France are some of the more popular retirement locations among North Americans. Once you’ve selected a potential location, take a vacation there and explore. In addition to the climate, check out the infrastructure, shopping, medical services, amenities, and crime rates. Try the place on for size and figure out if this is an area where you can comfortably spend your retirement.

Your social network needs changing There are a lot of social benefits to working. Once you quit working, you probably will be socializing less with your colleagues. Before you retire, start transitioning into replacement social networks through volunteering, workshops, place of worship and the like. Maintain contact with your new friends and keep making new friends.

Be prepared for the inevitable losses as some friends move away.

Consider volunteering I think we might all agree that feeling useful is a marvelous experience. We each have a lot of knowledge, skills, wisdom and abilities.

There are many opportunities in this community to fill your hours and provide you with a sense of self-regard.

If you don’t know where to start, just join a rotary club.

Are you ready to retire?

If you are seriously thinking about retiring, do your research. Talk with people who are already retired. Figure out if you can afford the retirement you want. Ponder about whether you are prepared for this huge change in your life. Like the Boy Scouts, be prepared.

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

TexasDivorceCPA.com.

Another consideration is health insurance. Government-sponsored plans may not cover services overseas, requiring you to find an alternative insurance source. The good news is that many international plans may be more affordable than ones found in the United States.

Once you have narrowed down your prospects, contact your native country’s embassy to determine what will be needed to legally live in a foreign country and obtain a visa.

Some places are more accommodating than others with regard to residency visas.

It also pays to contact an accountant or tax professional to see what, if any, taxes you will still be required to pay even if you move abroad. Your obligation may be less than if you chose to stay closer to home.

Retiring abroad does not mean you have to cut all ties to home. Some couples choose to keep dual residency and fly back and forth when necessary.

But the slower pace, affordability and other draws of international retirement spots could be challenging to leave behind.

AARP, Forbes and International Living routinely rank the best international retirement destinations.

Check with these sources for more information about retiring abroad.

June 7, 2016 | 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 979764-6351 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 9:15-10:15 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

1 0 | June 7, 2016

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 979764-3416. For more information, visit www.bcslibrary.org.

June 7

Free help for iPad users - This class is offered to adults 55 and up who would like to learn how to get the most out of technology. Bring your iPad to class at Southwood Community Center from 9-10 a.m. The class size is limited.

Register by calling 979-764-6351.

Free help for tablet users - This class is offered to adults 55 and up who would like to learn how to get the most out of technology. Bring your tablet to class at Southwood Community Center from 10:30 -11:30 a.m. The class size is limited. Register by calling 979-7646351.

June 8 Food Safety 101 for older adults - Learn how to prevent food poisoning in your home with tips from the USDA. Special presentation from the USDA Deputy Undersecretary for Food Safety Alfred Almanza and public affairs specialist with the Food Safety Education staff, Kristina Beaugh. Presentation begins at 10 a.m. with light refreshments served at the Southwood Community Center.

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

June 15 Family History Computer Group: “Creating a timeline for your favorite ancestor” - The group shares an interest in finding family history. Meetings are held on the third Wednesday of the month at Carter Creek Training Room, 2200 N. Forest Parkway in College Station from 9:3011 a.m. No registration is required.

Open to adults 55 and older. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

Exploring History Luncheon: “Museum of the American GI” - The College Station Historic Preservation Committee and the College Station Parks and Recreation Department present monthly lectures on the history

See Calendar page 11 T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

Seniors EXPO grand prize winner

Calendar

from page 10 of the community, along with lunch.

Held at Aldersgate Church, 2201 Earl Rudder Freeway South in College Station. Reservation is necessary for lunch and the cost is $7. Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m. Speaker will begin at noon. Reserve by June 10 by contacting 979-764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

June 16 Free Movie and Popcorn: “The Impossible” - Adults 55 and older are invited to enjoy a free movie and popcorn at Southwood Community Center. Movie begins at 1 p.m. Contact Southwood Community Center at 979764-6351 or email mrodgers@cstx. gov for more information.

June 20 “A Healthy Home is a Clean Home” - Texas AgriLife will present a free seminar at Lincoln Center from 10:30-11:30 a.m. For more information, contact Annie Williams at 979-7643779.

June 21 Nutrition Education presented by T H E B R YA N - C O L L E G E S TAT I O N E A G L E

AgriLife at Lincoln Center - Texas A&M AgriLife Extension offers monthly cooking demos with new recipes and food choices for healthy living. Join other seniors 60 and older at Lincoln Center, at 1000 Eleanor St. in College Station, from 10-11 a.m. For more information, contact Annie Williams at 979-764-3779.

James Turner Jr. (center), grand prize winner at the 15th annual Seniors EXPO event on May 18 at the Brazos County Expo Complex in Bryan, is pictured with Linda Brinkman (left), The Eagle’s display advertising manager, and Tricia Von Gonten, Seniors EXPO chairwoman. The grand prize was a two-night stay at the Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine. The free event, which featured a circus theme, included vendor booths, entertainment, educational seminars, free health screenings and door prizes.

Seniors EXPO, sponsored by The Eagle (signature sponsor) and H-E-B (major sponsor) is planned by a committee of various local business representatives, primarily in the senior industry. Attendance was estimated at more than 1,600.

programs and activities for adults 55 and older. Held at 10 a.m. at Southwood Community Center, 1520 Rock Prairie Road in College Station. Visitors

welcome. For more information contact College Station Parks and Recreation Department, Senior Services at 979764-6371 or mrodgers@cstx.gov.

June 23 Ice Cream Social - Seniors are invited to an ice cream social from 2-3 p.m. with the College Station Fire Department. Firefighters will be on hand to share safety tips and answer questions. Contact Southwood Community Center at 979-764-6351 or email mrodgers@cstx.gov for more information.

June 24 Bingo & Birthday Celebration Join on the last Friday of each month from 1:30–3 p.m. at Southwood Community Center for bingo and cake to celebrate February birthdays. No registration necessary. Call 979-7646351 for more information.

Home Care Committed to Keeping you Independent We provide quality non-medical care in any setting from your home to the hospital throughout the Brazos Valley.

We Specialize in

Companionship • Fall prevention • Memory Care Running errands/doctor visits • Personal hygiene/bathing

June 27 Senior Advisory Committee meeting - The Senior Advisory Committee meets monthly to discuss

Call for your FREE assessment. Let us show you the Signature Select difference!

Family & Aggie Owned 1716 Briarcrest Dr, #300 in Bryan• Phone: 979.691.7309

June 7, 2016 | 11

N E W A D VA N C E D E M E R G E N C Y & T R AU M A C E N T E R

With the fastest response times as the region’s highest-level trauma center, we’re always ready.

As the highest-level trauma center in a nine-county area, now we’re better equipped than ever to provide the expert care you need.

Our Level II trauma center designation means that we have exceeded rigid standards for readiness, response times and specialized coverage. Our trauma team is the most experienced in the region and backed 24/7 by trauma surgeons and specialists in orthopedic surgery, neurosurgery, cardiothoracic surgery, facial and plastic surgery, anesthesiology, radiology, critical care, rehabilitation and more. It’s a level of care that can make the critical difference.

Always here, always ready, always giving you our best.

Advanced Emergency and Trauma Services Highest-level Trauma Center in 9 counties (Level II) Certified Primary Stroke Center since 2007 Accredited Chest Pain Center with PCI and Resuscitation Shorter wait times Private, spacious rooms Better access for seniors and those with special needs

ER.CHIStJosephHealth.org

Regional Hospital 1 2 | June 7, 2016

2801 Franciscan Drive Bryan, Texas 77802

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