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Just For Seniors • March 12, 2013

SENIORS March 2013

Nutrition & Exercise Financial Counseling Plus much more.....

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Just For Seniors • March 12, 2013

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Stay active with age Many of the problems that people associate with “aging” are actually not due to aging at all. Instead, they are due to a lack of activity.

In particular, deaths from heart disease could probably be reduced if all people participated in mild, regular exercise.

Many people feel that it is dangerous to exercise after a certain age. Actually, it is probably more dangerous not to.

One of the most important aspects of exercise is to pick an activity that you like. Physical activity such as walking and dancing for 30 minutes a day, or even looking after the grandchildren can have big benefits.

If you have not been exercising at all for years, start slowly.

Begin with even a minute or two of exercise and build up by a minute each time. Always ask your healthcare provider about any exercise plans you may have, especially if you have a medical condition.

To exercise your heart, think about an aerobic activity. Aerobic exercises work the heart and lungs as well as the muscles, and can improve overall health. Walking, swimming, cycling and dancing are all aerobic activities.

Older adults who exercise in To stay strong, think moderation tend to: about weight training.

• look and feel better Resistance training builds • have more energy lean body mass, which is • sleep better important for metabo• have fewer medical visits lism and your heart.

To stay flexible, think • stay more active in all areas of about stretching activities their lives. like yoga or tai chi.

Make sure that you get the right equipment for the right sport. Good, supportive shoes are especially important in order to reduce stress or injury to the feet, knees, hips, and lower back. Regular exercise can vastly improve the quality of life for older adults. >>

Helping Our Seniors Is A Priority That’s why we have a variety of programs to help seniors such as a SAFER and Age Friendly Grants, and publications, like My Voice and the BC Seniors’ Guide.

To learn more, please visit, www.seniorsbc.ca

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Just For Seniors • March 12, 2013

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Exercise may slow some effects of aging A past study conducted by Bloomsburg University in Pennsylvania indicated exercise may slow some effects of aging. To get the desired results, people--with their doctor’s approval--need to participate in strenuous exercise for at least a half-hour three times a week, according to researchers. That conclusion is from an analysis of 37 studies including 720 adults aged 46 to 90. The findings are published in the Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness.

In those studies, people who participated in at least 30 minutes of exercise three times a week and achieved at least 80% of VO2 max—the maximum oxygen consumption, a measure of the ability to transport and use oxygen during exercise— can slow the decline in cardiovascular health that accompanies old age.

The investigators found no difference in fitness between people who walked and jogged, and those who cycled. According to the authors, their study findings provide support for the idea that physical activity can help slow the decline of the cardiovascular system seen in elderly people.

“Despite the inevitable decline in VO2 max (maximum oxygen consumption) with aging, exercise training imparts favorable adaptations in functional capacity in individuals well into the seventh and eighth decades of life,” L.M. Lemura and colleagues conclude.

The researchers write that the heart’s capacity to use oxygen declines at a rate of about 1% a year, due in part to a lack of physical activity.

Lifestyle and longevity The health benefits of exercising regularly, keeping weight down, and not smoking are supported by a recent study in the Archives of Internal Medicine. The study found that a 50-yearold man who had never smoked, was physically active, and had a low body mass index (BMI) was more than twice as likely to survive for 15 years free of coronary artery disease, stroke or diabetes as a sedentary, overweight smoker the same age.

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Getting started So you are convinced that there is huge health benefits to an exercise program. The question is how to get started. It is never too late to start exercising. These are strategies anyone can adopt no matter what age, no matter what physical condition.

Study after study has demonstrated that the single most important activity a person can do to slow down and even reverse the aging process is just to exercise. The most meaningful consideration for an older person is the ability to perform daily functions. This includes, for example, getting dressed, using the toilet, shopping, cooking and climbing stairs. As a person ages and muscle strength declines, each activity becomes increasingly difficult. Without muscle strength, everything becomes a difficult chore. Loss of muscle mass and strength are the primary factors in the aging process.

First step Being more active on a daily basis could be the most critical thing anyone can do. For some people this might be as simple as taking a 30-minute walk once a day. If this seems too challenging, then two 15-minute walks might be less threatening.

For others, it might be getting up from the couch to change the channels on the TV instead of using the remote control.

Getting off the bus a stop earlier or taking an extra flight of stairs will add a few more steps to your day and maybe a few more years to your life. Each physical activity a person >>

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V4 Just For Seniors • March 12, 2013 (continued from page 3) disciplines himself to do will further his overall development.

Each step can become a necessary component until the day comes when he or she is ready to start an exercise program.

And, make sure you check with your doctor before you get started.

Next step Now that you have started to include more physical activities into your daily routine and you have gotten clearance from your doctor, you are ready to begin. What form of exercise should you participate in? Think in terms of two types of exercise: Aerobic, which will increase your cardiovascular capacity and keep your heart healthy, and strength training, which will help maintain and build muscle strength for the body to do its daily work.

Aerobic Exercises Brisk walking - remember the 30 minute walk you have been doing. After you have been at it daily for two weeks, you should be feeling ready to increase the pace. Walk a little faster, maintain a pace that will deepen your breathing but will not make you out of breath. You should still be able to carry on a conversation with your walking partner.

Swimming, stationary bike, tennis, badminton, etc. - if you have done any of these sports before, it is a good idea to get back into them gradually. You don’t have to be good at these

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sports to gain health benefits from doing them.

Don’t forget you need to warm up for 10 minutes at the beginning and cool-down for another 10 minutes at the end.

Doing some stretches after will help to prevent muscle soreness after each session. Ballroom, line dancing, etc. - these are fun activities which will get you moving without thinking about the time although they may not get your heart rate up for a sustained period unless you are a very good dancer!

Strength Training The newest trend in fitness is strength training for seniors.

We don’t mean that we want grandpa to look like Arnold Schwarzenegger. But many older adults are going to enjoy stronger muscles, firmer bones and an improved quality of life because they spent 60 minutes per week performing some simple exercises.

Strength training is being emphasized because it can result in dramatic physical benefits. These include: increased bone density, improved leg strength and balance (thus decreasing risk of injury from falls) and overall increased strength which can make it easier to perform many ordinary activities, such as lifting objects and climbing stairs.

What is strength training?

Beginners can start with mild resistance exercises and gradually progress as strength levels increase. It is important to perform the exercises properly. Maintaining good form will minimize the risk of injury and maximize results. The best way to learn good technique is to work with an exercise specialist.

Strength workouts are structured according to repetitions and sets. Lifting the weight one time is called a repetition.

A set is a group of repetitions performed without stopping.

Strength-training guidelines consist of a list of specific exercises; each exercise is performed for a prescribed number of repetitions for one or more sets. The purpose of each set is to work the muscles to fatigue. This means the last repetition you can perform with proper form and without excessive strain. A strength-training workout should include all major muscle groups.

Activities to avoid Unless a person has been an active runner, older persons should not take up running or jogging. The additional stresses placed upon the joints far outweigh the value gained from running. Forms of exercise other than running are preferable for an older person.

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Just For Seniors • March 12, 2013

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Music to the ears

It has been said that music has the power to soothe the soul, but can it also improve memory and communication?

It certainly can, says Arla Good, PhD candidate from Ryerson University’s SMART lab, a group that focuses on the field of music cognition. “I like to think of music as the back door entrance to cognitive functioning.

For example, if an individual shows difficulty retrieving memories, perhaps due to dementia, music may provide them with an alternative point of access.

We have all experienced the strength of the memories that are bound to songs.”

Across long term care at Revera, a leading provider in accommodation, care and services for seniors in Canada, various homes are seeing the benefits of music therapy in practice. Patti Fetter, Executive Director at Forest Heights Long Term Care in Kitchener, Ontario, says she sees it every day.

“We see music therapy, with its prov-

en methodology in support of both the resident and their care provider, as an integral part of care at our home,” says Fetter. “We’ve seen the results.”

At Forest Heights, residents who have issues with memory or communication and also have a love of music, are referred to the home’s music therapist, who develops goals for the resident through individual and group programming.

Through tailored uses of music, residents are able to have “breakthroughs” which help improve their quality of life.

“I’ve worked in this field for 25 years and for 20 of them, I have utilized music therapy,” remarked Fetter.

“When I watch people who have absolutely no response at first, start to bang a drum along to the music, you know you have made a connection. I see music as being universal to everyone, regardless of age, gender or culture. We all have music in our lives and we are all affected by it.” an

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V6 Just For Seniors • March 12, 2013 Getting ready for a vacation can be hectic – especially if you’re a senior and not sure what you can bring with you in carry-on baggage. The following tips can make the experience less stressful and help get your next trip off to a smooth start: • All prescription medications are allowed in carry-on baggage. To ensure a quick screening, make sure your medications are clearly labelled with your name.

• Essential non-prescription medication (cough syrup, eye drops, contact lens solutions, rash creams, gel pills, etc.) can be carried in containers larger than 100 ml in carry-on baggage.

These must be given to the screening officer separately.

• Diabetes medications and equipment, including syringes, are permitted. Diabetic travellers are also allowed to bring juice or carbohydrate gel packs.

• Wheelchairs, walkers, prosthetic devices and any other disability-related equipment are permitted through the security checkpoint.

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• Keep in mind that prosthetic joint replacements often have metal parts – bring a note from your doctor in case your new hip sets off the metal detector.

• Medical defibrillators and small oxygen or air cylinders for medical use may be packed in carry-on or checked baggage with the air carrier’s approval.

• If you have any concerns about the screening process, check with your doctor before flying to determine if it is safe for you to go through the metal detector or be hand-wanded. If not, you can request a physical search.

• You can use the Family/Special Needs security line. Screening officers at these lines are trained to offer additional assistance and the x-ray equipment is designed for larger items like wheelchairs.

• Finally, do not hesitate to ask screening officers for assistance with mobility aids and carry-on items as you proceed through security.

• Additional tips are available online at www.catsa.gc.ca, or on the mobile site m.catsa.gc.ca and Twitter @catsa_gc.

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Just For Seniors • March 12, 2013

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Staying engaged and involved Everyone knows that staying active is important to your health as you age. But active aging involves a lot more than just your fitness level, says AJ Raffan, National Director of Recreation and Rehabilitation at Revera.

“To reach our goal of living life to the fullest as we get older, we must think about the mind, body and spirit,” says Raffan.

What does active aging mean in practice? Raffan points to the International Council on Active Aging’s model of wellness and the questions it suggests: • EMOTIONAL: Can you manage your feelings and cope with challenges?

• INTELLECTUAL: Are you engaged in creative pursuits and intellectually stimulating activities?

• SOCIAL: Do you interact with others and the larger community?

• SPIRITUAL: Are you living with a meaning or purpose in life, exploring the beliefs and values that create personal peace and understanding?

Raffan says that what may surprise people is how their everyday activities can contribute to their overall well-being in unexpected ways. Everything is linked, she explains.

For instance, getting together with friends to play a game and have some laughs can have emotional, intellectual and social

benefits. Doing physical activity and practicing good nutrition not only contributes to better physical health, it can also help people feel mentally sharper.

Volunteering for an organization can support vocational, spiritual and social wellness.

With wellness so broadly defined, age, status or condition should not be obstacles to active aging, says Raffan. “It’s not just about getting to the gym, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or walking instead of driving,” she says: “It’s about being engaged in life.”

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True wellness means living live to the fullest

Revera, a leading provider of accommodation, care and services for seniors in Canada, defines wellness broadly, with a focus on living life to the fullest.

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• PHYSICAL: Have you chosen lifestyle habits that maintain or improve your health and function?

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Every gift to the Kelowna General Hospital Foundation makes a difference to you, your family and your community when it is needed most. Make KGH Foundation your charity of choice in your estate plans for now and for generations to follow.

For information on how to Create Your Legacy DIANE PATERSON Gift Planning Officer P: 250.862.4300, local 7011 E: diane.paterson@interiorhealth.ca kghfoundation.com

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Just For Seniors • March 12, 2013

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DIRECTORY OF SERVICES Health • Medical • Important Numbers

POLICING Emergency Calls Only .........................................................................911 Block Watch (Kelowna RCMP) ............................................250.470.6214 Community Policing Offices: Mission ...............................................................................250.764.5004 Rutland ...............................................................................250.765.6355 Peachland ...........................................................................250.767.2623 West Kelowna (RCMP) ........................................................250.768.2880 Citizens Patrol: Lake Country .......................................................................250.766.5400 West Kelowna .....................................................................250.707.8022 Crime Stoppers/Tips ...............................................1.800.222.TIPS (8477) Kelowna Crime Prevention Association: Box 22033, Capri PO, Kelowna, V1Y 9N9 Royal Canadian Mounted Police: Kelowna ..............................................................................250.762.3300 Lake Country .......................................................................250.766.2288 Peachland ...........................................................................250.767.2623 West Kelowna .....................................................................250.768.2880 Whitefoot Lodge, Village of Big White ................................250.765.3549

HEALTH FACILITIES: Interior Health Authority www.interiorhealth.ca • Regional Administration Office ........................................250.862.4200 • Capri Community Care Health Centre .............................250.980.1400 • Kelowna Health Centre ....................................................250.868.7700 • Kelowna General Hospital www.interiorhealth.ca 2268 Pandosy Street ....................................................1.888.877.4442 Switchboard ...................................................................250.862.4000 Emergency ......................................................................250.862.4485 Foundation .....................................................................250.862.4438 Patient Room Enquiries ..................................................250.862.4099 Volunteer Services ..........................................................250.862.4497 • Prosthetic & Orthotic Services .........................................250.862.4208 • May Bennett Wellness Centre ..........................................250.980.1400 • Patient Care Quality Office, IHA ....................................1.877.442.2001 • Rutland Health Centre .....................................................250.980.4825 • West Kelowna Health Centre ...........................................250.980.1400

MEDICAL ORGANIZATIONS & SERVICES Alcohol & Drug Information & Referral Service ............ 1.800.663.1441 Kelowna Alcohol & Drugs Services .................................. 250.870.5777 Allergy/Asthma Information Assn. ................................... 250.764.7507 ...................................................................................... 1.877.500.2242 ALS Society of BC.......................................................... 1.800.708.3228 Alzheimer Society of BC................................................... 250.860.0305 ...................................................................................... 1.800.634.3399 Dementia Helpline ........................................................ 1.800.936.6033 Arthritis Society Answers Line....................................... 1.800.321.1433 Interior Regional Office (Trudy) ........................................ 250.868.8643 BC Brain Injury Association ........................................... 1.877.858.1788

BC Cancer Agency Sindi Ahulwalia Hawkins Centre for Southern Interior ............................................. 250.712.3900 Screening Mammography Program ................................. 250.861.7560 Book your screening ..................................................... 1.800.663.9203 BC Epilepsy Society ....................................................... 1.866.374.5377 Centre for Elipepsy & Seizure Education in BC .............1.866. EPILEPSY BC Lung Association ..................................................... 1.800.665.5864 BC Lupus Society .......................................................... 1.866.585.8787 Kelowna Support Group (Janet) ....................................... 250.764.1640 BC Schizophrenia Society................................................. 250.868.3119 BC Spinal Cord Injury ...................................1.877.324.3611 Vancouver ........................................................... 1.800.689.2477 SCIU BC Infoline BrainTrust Canada ........................................................... 250.762.3233 CNIB................................................................................. 250.763.1191 Canadian Cancer Society ................................................. 250.762.6381 ...................................................................................... 1.800.403.8222 Cancer Information Service........................................... 1.888.939.3333 Canadian Cancer Society Southern Interior Rotary Lodge........................................ 250.712.2203 Freemason Volunteer Driver Program ........................... 1.800.299.0188 Canadian Diabetes Association........................................ 250.762.9447 Information Line ........................................................... 1.800.226.8464 Canadian Institute for Health Information (Victoria) ...................................................... 250.220.4100 Canadian Liver Foundation ........................................... 1.800.856.7266 Canadian Mental Health Association............................... 250.861.3644 BC Division.................................................................... 1.800.555.8222 24 Hour Info Line .......................................................... 1.800.661.2121 Cardiac Health Foundation of Canada Central Okanagan Association for Cardiac Health ........... 250.763.3433 Cerebral Palsy Association of BC................................... 1.800.663.0004 Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation ........................................ 1.800.513.8202 Denturist Association of BC ............................................. 604.582.6823 Dietitian Services ....................................................................Dial 8-1-1 TTY..........................................................................................Dial 7-1-1 HealthLink BC .........................................................................Dial 8-1-1 TTY..........................................................................................Dial 7-1-1 Healthy Eating for Seniors ......................................................Dial 8-1-1 TTY..........................................................................................Dial 7-1-1 Heart & Stroke Foundation BC/Yukon .............................. 250.860.6275 ...................................................................................... 1.866.432.7833 Interior Health Lifeline Program....................................... 250.762.0200 Kidney Foundation of Canada....................................... 1.800.567.8112 Lake Country Health Planning Society ............................. 250.766.5437 Medic Alert Foundation ................................................ 1.800.668.1507 Medical Services Plan ................................................... 1.800.663.7100 Multiple Sclerosis Society ................................................ 250.762.5850 Muscular Dystrophy Canada ......................................... 1.800.366.8166 Okanagan Mental Health Services Society Assisted Living Program .................................................. 250.717.3368 Therapeutic Work Program .............................................. 250.717.3007 Osteoporosis Canada (Trish Gunning) ............................. 250.861.6880 Pacific Blue Cross .......................................................... 1.800.873.2583 Parkinson Society British Columbia............................... 1.800.668.3330 PharmaCare .................................................................. 1.800.663.7100 Prostate Cancer Canada Network................................. 1.888.255.0333 Westside Health Network Society .................................... 250.768.3305

Just For Seniors • March 12, 2013

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V9

Make arrangements in advance to save family members time and stress Many people feel confident that they are prepared for their final days. Life insurance, pensions, and wills give us the impression that our loved ones will be taken care of after we’re gone. However, there is one glaringly obvious item that Canadians are not adequately prepared for when it comes to end-of-life planning, and that’s funerals.

When a loved-one passes away, people experience an emotional rollercoaster. The thought of planning a funeral during this time of mourning is daunting. More often than not, the burden of funeral planning is left to families coping with a loss. This burden is not only emotional but financial; in fact, the average traditional funeral in Canada costs over $10,000.

Many people are not prepared to face these circumstances.

According to a recent study, 64 per cent of Canadians have never planned a funeral, only 9 per cent have pre-planned their own funeral and only one-third have insurance to cover the costs. Pre-planning is simply not top-of-mind for most Canadians.

But the good news is, almost 90 per cent agree that preplanning our own funeral would significantly reduce pain and hardship on our families.

So what’s holding us back from making arrangements that would save our family members money, time and stress? The most commonly cited reasons include: not being able to afford it, not knowing where to start, and the fear of being taken advantage of.

Industry experts say the first step is to ensure you plan ahead and consider an insurance package to cover the costs of your funeral. Some packages even offer 24 hour funeral planning and concierges services, and have a team of representatives that will negotiate with funeral homes on behalf of your family.

“Most people when they lose a loved one aren’t in the

right frame of mind to run around to different funeral homes negotiating the best price,” said Mark Duffey, president and CEO of Everest, a funeral planning and concierge service.

“When the inevitable happens people tend to take the first option presented to them, regardless of whether or not it’s a smart consumer choice. Preparing beforehand can save families tremendous stress and thousands of dollars.”

Making end-of-life preparations is being a smart consumer, just like planning for college, a wedding, or retirement. Funeral planning is not a responsibility that should be inherited by your loved one’s after you’ve passed away.

Information is available online at www.everestfuneral.com.

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V10

Just For Seniors • March 12, 2013

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Nutrition supplements not a replacement for regular food “My elderly mother isn’t eating and she has lost a lot of weight. Should I give her a nutrition supplement drink to replace the meals she should be eating?”

Under-nutrition due to lack of eating is a common problem among elderly people. It is also dangerous. Under-nutrition and extreme thinness can lead to higher mortality rates, according to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. It is a problem that can’t be ignored.

Geriatricians (specialists in treating the elderly) take weight loss among the elderly very seriously and caregivers should, too. However, some caregivers feel that feeding their parent a nutrition supplement drink, such as Boost, in lieu of meals ensures the elderly loved one is getting the nutrition they need.

This isn’t the case, according to Dr. Amy Ehrlich, Associate Professor of Clinical Medicine and Interim Division Head of Montefiore Medical Center’s Geriatrics Division.

“Just giving them a can of Ensure for dinner isn’t enough,” she says. “It is always better to try to use regular food to maintain a person’s weight.” If a caregiver wants to use nutrition drinks, they should be used between meals, as a snack or supplement to add calories to the senior’s diet – not as a meal replacement.

Work with a doctor to determine elder’s nutrition needs Weight loss is a marker of frailty. However, it is not a normal part of aging. Dr. Ehrlich stresses that it is critical to find out what is causing the senior’s loss of interest in food.

A doctor should conduct a detailed medical evaluation to

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determine the cause of loss in appetite and weight loss. “There are a variety of treatable conditions that could be the culprit: ulcers, thyroid disease, dementia, depression, even ill-fitting dentures. All are treatable, so rather than immediately turning to a supplement, work with your doctor to address the cause of the problem,” Dr Ehrlich says.

If a caregiver does decide a nutrition drink is right for their elderly loved one, a doctor should still be consulted to determine the type of supplement to use. For example, diabetics must choose a low-sugar product.

Frail elderly have different nutrition requirements There is a misperception that frail elderly people should adhere to the same low-fat, low-calorie diet that is recommended for the general population. However, Dr. Ehrlich says that for frail elderly who have substantial weight loss, the opposite is true. “I’ll see a 94-year-old person who is losing weight and he is restricting everything, eating a low-calorie, low-fat diet.

It would be better to eat a bowl of ice cream, for the caloric intake!”

Elders who have experienced weight loss should eat what they like. And don’t be afraid to incorporate eggs, cheese, peanut butter…even ice cream into the diet. There is no need for low-fat milk or cheese.

Elders often can’t (or don’t want to) eat three large meals a day. Rather, encourage them to have smaller, more frequent meals, including snacks, even before bed.

Nutrition drinks and supplements can interact with medications Supplements, including nutrition drinks, can cause dangerous drug interactions in the same way prescription medications do.

If an elder is taking prescription and over-the-counter drugs and supplements, the drugs may conflict and, basically, go to war against each other, while also damaging otherwise functioning body organs and systems.

Check with your doctor to avoid interactions. “I encourage my patients to bring in all their medications, supplements and vitamins, so I can check for possible interactions. I call it the ‘brown bag visit,’ “ Dr. Ehrlich says.

The bottom line is that nutrition drinks are a not a magic fix for lack of eating or under-nutrition. They should not be used as a meal replacement for elders – especially those who are frail or thin.

l

Just For Seniors • March 12, 2013

CAPITAL NEWS

Choosing the right pain medication

According to the Arthritis Society of Canada, 10 per cent of Canadians live with osteoarthritis (OA). Those affected by chronic pain associated with OA of the knee often find that their symptoms prevent them from participating in the winter-time activities they once loved; from vacation sports like golf and tennis, to outdoorsy hobbies such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, to the simple joys such as playing with their grandchildren.

If you’re affected by chronic pain associated with OA of the knee, safe and effective treatments are available to help you reconnect with the activities you love. But determining the right treatment option for you is extremely important.

While there are a variety of medications available to relieve pain, there are many factors to consider before

Building healthy active older adults

V11

starting a treatment regimen: • Talk with your doctor to devise a plan to manage your pain, and ensure that you consistently follow their directions when taking medications.

• Know and understand the side effects and long-term risks of any medications you take to help you weigh the reported risks with potential benefits.

• Choose wisely. New treatments like some serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), for example, are proven effective and well-tolerated. Your doctor can help determine which treatment is right for you.

• Be aware of your family’s medical history and susceptibility to allergies, addiction or reactions to certain medications.

• Not all treatments involve medication. Ask your doctor about non-pharmacological therapies and lifestyle adjustments that can also help alleviate your pain.

At the Kelowna Family YMCA we have dedicated professionals to help support you through preventative and restorative health programs, including: Building Better Bones Healthy Hearts Low impact Fitness Classes Aquafit Health Coaching & Seminars Socials & Drop in Programs

Questions?

Drop in or call Lauren, Adult & Senior Program Coordinator, 250-491-9622.

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www.ymcaokanagan.ca

V12

Just For Seniors • March 12, 2013

CAPITAL NEWS

Kelowna’s Seniors’ Centres

To encourage and support recreational and educational opportunities for those 50 years and better, the City of Kelowna’s Recreation and Cultural Services works in collaboration with three Senior Centre Societies to provide a variety of opportunities at three different facilities.

The Parkinson Activity Centre, the Rutland Seniors Centre Society and the Okanagan Mission Activity Centre Society provide a variety of programs and services for seniors, including fitness and sport, crafts and hobbies, music and dance, health and wellness, computers, art, games and general learning.

Parkinson Activity Centre 1700 Parkinson Way 250 762-4108 parkinsonseniors.com This Centre is a multi‐use facility opened its doors on November 13, 2012. It is operated in collaboration with the Parkinson Senior Society and the City of Kelowna, offering recreation and cultural programs or rentals.

The new facility offers a wide variety of recreation and cultural programs for those in the community who are 50 years and older. Some of the programs include yoga, painting, whist, fitness to music, bridge, bingo, tai chi, computer lessons, walking programs plus much more. In addition, the City of Kelowna Recreation & Cultural Services Department offers a variety of multi‐aged programs to meet the needs of the surrounding community.

The Rutland Seniors Centre is a joint‐use facility operated through a partnership between the Rutland Seniors Centre Society and the City of Kelowna.

Rutland Seniors Centre 765 Dodd Road • 250 765-3723 The Rutland Seniors Society offers a wide variety of recreation and cultural programs for those in the community who are 50 years and older. Some of the programs include dancing, fitness, table tennis, carpet bowling, pancake breakfasts and much more. The City of Kelowna Recreation & Cultural Services Department offers a variety of multi‐aged programs to meet the additional needs of the surrounding community. >>

Just For Seniors • March 12, 2013

CAPITAL NEWS

V13

Dealing with dementia

Okanagan Mission Activity Centre 4398 Hobson Road 250 764-7642 The Okanagan Mission Activity Centre sits on the waterfront next to Sarson’s Beach. The Centre is nestled amongst tall shade trees in a quiet neighbourhood setting and has a grassed and fenced backyard.

The Okanagan Mission Activity Centre is a multi‐use facility. During the day it is operated in collaboration with the Okanagan Mission Seniors Centre Society and the City of Kelowna. On weekends and evenings, it is used for City of Kelowna recreation and cultural programs or rentals.

The Okanagan Mission Senior Centre Society offers a wide variety of recreation and cultural programs for those in the community who are 50 years and older. Some of the programs include quilting, painting, crafts, cribbage, keep fit, mixed bridge and more. The City of Kelowna Recreation & Cultural Services Department offers a variety of multi‐ aged programs to meet the needs of the surrounding community.

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Anne Harrison’s husband Ray had only just been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease when she called his employer to apply for long-term disability benefits. But no amount of preparation could have helped her deal with the response she received.

“They said, ‘I don’t think that’s covered because I think it comes from someone not being mentally active,’” recalls Anne, “and questioned how the insurance company could blame Ray for getting the disease.”

In the end, Ray did qualify for benefits, but the episode helped the couple understand that they would not only be dealing with the illness, but also with the stigma surrounding dementia.

An online survey released in 2012 by Alzheimer’s Disease International found that 40 per cent of people with dementia reported having been treated negatively and having experienced isolation and a loss of friends.

That’s why Ray has given

his wife permission to speak at public events about their experience and write testimonials on behalf of those with dementia.

Uncomfortable speaking in front of crowds, Ray instead talks to people one-on-one about his illness.

Perhaps that’s why his golfing buddies treat him no differently than before his diagnosis. They trade good natured insults about the quality of one another’s game, just as they always have. When other golfers asked Ray’s friend Mike why he wasn’t treating him differently now, he just replied ‘Why should I?’ “Some people think that just because he has dementia, he would stop doing the things he enjoys.

People with dementia still like to have fun just as the rest of us do,” Anne says.

How would you react if a close friend or family member was diagnosed with dementia?

Visit www.alzheimer.ca/ letstalkaboutdementia to help answer that question for yourself.

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V14

Just For Seniors • March 12, 2013

CAPITAL NEWS

This season, Canadians who live with chronic pain associated with osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee may feel like they are missing out on their favourite winter or vacation activities.

Even simple things, such as standing up or sitting down, can be excruciating.

The pain experienced can be so intense and debilitating, it often leads to isolation. Having to stay indoors when the family is enjoying the great outdoors - or skip the annual winter getaway - leaves sufferers feeling disconnected from doing the things they once enjoyed, and the people they do them with.

In an effort to relieve pain and reconnect with their lives, it is important that people living with the discomfort of knee pain inform their doctor to determine the cause and then manage the condition. While many options are available to help alleviate pain and/or inflammation, some individuals have concerns or questions about the medications they rely on; this includes concerns about addiction, side effects, and remembering to take medications on a regular basis.

It’s important to manage arthritic conditions for optimal quality of life

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When considering treatments to manage OA knee pain, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider about safe, effective, and convenient treatment options to help relieve pain and improve functionality.

“An abundance of treatments are available to help reduce chronic knee pain due to osteoarthritis,” says Dr. Philip Baer, rheumatologist. “But understanding the associated risks and whether they are the right fit for one’s lifestyle is an important first step in effectively managing OA knee pain.”

Follow these tips to ensure that your pain associated with OA of the knee is treated in the safest manner possible: • Know the risks associated with certain medications. For instance, opioids are a powerful pain reliever, but may be highly addictive. Some serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) can provide effective pain relief and are well-tolerated.

• Acetaminophen, for example, could lead to liver damage if the maximum daily dose is exceeded.

• Ibuprofen, or other similar medications, for example, could affect the protective lining of the stomach and may increase the risk of stomach ulcers.

• Always read and follow the label on non-prescription and prescription medications, and follow your doctor’s directions for use.

• Talk to your pharmacist about any potential interactions between medications you’re already taking.

Just For Seniors • March 12, 2013

CAPITAL NEWS

The importance of a professionally drafted will Many people are not prepared for the transfer of their money and belongings to their loved ones. As many as 30 per cent of all Canadians have no will or estate plan in place, poll-

ster Environics found.

“Creating a legal will and plan now helps ensure that the value of your estate will be maximized for your chosen beneficiaries,” says Elaine Wilson, vice president at Fiduciary Trust Company of Canada.

The first step is to figure out your assets and liabilities, including what is jointly owned.

When meeting with an estate planner, consider whether your wealth will be divided equally or if dividing it differently would be more appropriate given your family circumstances. Take into account whether you have made prior promises and ensure that intended gifts are stated in your will.

Potentially valuable items like paintings, antiques, jewelry and objects with sentimental value should be gifted to specific beneficiaries while you are alive or have it clearly stated in your will. Additional information is available at www.fiduciarytrust. ca.

“Ensure that you discuss your plan with your beneficia-

ries,” adds Ms. Wilson. “This can help avoid disputes and family feuds over that beloved piece of art after you’re gone.”

Ensure you have a professionally drafted will and power of attorney. If you die without a will in place, provincial legislation dictates how your estate is distributed without any regard to your wishes.

V15

Healthy, sweet snacks off the vine (NC)—Easy to grow and full of antioxidants and vitamin C, cherry tomatoes provide a sweet, healthy snack. On their own growing in a container or in the midst of a garden, they create a colourful accent ranging from red to yellow and deep purple depending on the variety.

A few key tips for successfully growing cherry tomatoes: 1. They love the full sun so position them so they can enjoy the rays all day.

2. If you plant them in a container, it should be large enough to give them room to grow.

3. If you plant them in

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a garden, they thrive best when planted by chives, onions, parsley and carrots, but not near cabbages or the potato family.

4. They need to be deeply planted to be well rooted and strong as they grow and produce.

5. They can be planted in their biodegradable pots, but you should open the bottom of the pot to ensure the roots have room to grow.

6. Stake them so they are supported when they bear fruit.

7. The planting area needs to be well drained to prevent rotting.

8. Water ‘evenly’ so you don’t drown or starve them.

V16

Just For Seniors • March 12, 2013

CAPITAL NEWS

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