This is the Life! A Living 60+ Magazine
Planning for retirement Square dancing, fitness & love To move or not to move? The "Seniors' Pharmacist" Is your will current? Fall prevention strategies
Fall 2013
ALL INCLUSIVE RENTAL ACCOMMODATIONS: JUNIOR STUDIO, STUDIO, 1 &2 BEDROOM SUITES • Nutritious meals by certified chef • A Life Enhancement Program of activities • Home of Pitt Meadows Senior Rec. Centre • Spacious comfortable suites with full kitchens & appliances
• A registered 33 suite assisted living residence • Certified nurse on staff • 24 hr. staffing for security & comfort • Private Manor dining room & lounges • Specialized wellness programs • Services available for your individual needs • Jr. studio, studios & 1 bedroom suite
Developed by ALLEGRO PROPERTIES INC. LEAGUE ASSETS CORP.
Managed & Operated by CASA GROUP
Now Open and in full operation CALL TODAY OR REGISTER ONLINE FOR YOUR PRIVATE SHOWING
THE WESBROOKE 12000 190A Street, Pitt Meadows BC OPEN 10am - 5 pm Daily www.thewesbrooke.com 604.460.7006
2 – This is the Life, Fall 2013
Lucille Harsch and Peter Lysne of the Town and Country Swingers are square dancing partners. - Photo by Colleen Flanagan
Square dancing all about fun, fitness, socializing, and for some…love By Robert Prince
“Square dancing is supposed to be fun, and we have a lot of fun in our club.” - Peter Lysne If you’re looking to stay active, have a lot of fun, and do something super social, then square dancing is the activity for you. And who knows? You might even find love the way Lucille Harsch and Peter Lysne of the Town and Country Swingers did almost four years ago after partnering up one evening. They’d met on and off at dance events over a couple of years, but Peter was partnered with his wife, and Lucille was dancing regularly with another fellow. Then Peter’s wife passed away in August of 2009, and Lucille’s partner informed her that he was going to be dancing with his daughter, who wanted to get involved. Suddenly, the pair found themselves partnerless, and so one fateful evening Lucille exited her comfort zone, walked over to Peter, asked him to dance, and the rest, as they say, is history. The four years of their courtship included lots of square dancing, and culminated August 24th with their wedding. “It’s been so much fun,” Lucille stated during the interview for this article, her face as radiant as any bride-to-be contemplating her wedding day, even though this is her second marriage and she just celebrated her 73rd birthday in August.
Peter's big smile indicated he was equally happy about the pending nuptials. Lucille and Peter agreed that square dancing has been a good thing in their lives. Aside from the romance and wedding, they lauded the benefits of square dancing when it comes to staying fit, keeping active, getting out of the house, having some fun, and keeping the mind sharp. The Town and Country Swingers, which dances at the Seniors Centre on 224th Street in Maple Ridge, recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. The group has about 60-70 members, according to Lucille and Peter, who are also the club’s President Couple this year. “Square dancing is supposed to be fun,” said Peter, 63, “and we have a lot of fun in our club.” It’s also about keeping active, said Lucille, who wore a pedometer to an event one evening and recorded 17,000 steps over a two-and-a-half hour period, which is pretty great considering the recommended number of steps for a whole day is 10,000. “It’s definitely a good way to stay fit,” she added. “We (Peter and her) usually try to be on the floor for every dance, including the square and round dancing,
but some people take breaks, or sit out the round dancing and socialize. It’s really whatever they want to do.” The Town and Country Swingers are not just for seniors. Club members range from teens to people in their eighties. Both Lucille and Peter sang the praises of club caller John Corrigan, who works equally well with seasoned veterans and newcomers. “There are some very good callers out there, and some not so good, but we have an extremely good caller,” said Lucille. That’s important, she added, because it makes things easier for new dancers to become involved, and the club is always accepting new participants. To ease new people in, the Town and Country Swingers have newcomer classes, as well as “angels” who help new dancers through the steps and patterns so they don’t feel too awkward. “Our caller guarantees you will be able to dance at the Mainstream level by the end of our 10-week introductory program,” said Peter. “If you come with a positive attitude, and you’re willing to attend regularly, then you shouldn’t have any problems.” The cost is pretty reasonable, Peter said. “Our regular drop-in fee is $7, but the newcomer program is a flat fee that works out to less than the regular fee.” Anyone interested in joining the Town and Country Swingers can call Lucille at 604-809-1426 or Peter at 604-365-1207. This is the Life, Fall 2013 – 3
Our #1 priority is Your Health. MAGETA MEDICAL CLINIC Specialty Compounding • Vetrinary Compounding • Bio Identical Hormones • Travel Vaccinations
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Family Physicians • Dr. Cilliers Marais
FREE One-on-One Medication Review
• Dr. Fernando Villasenor
FREE Blister Packing
• Dr. Pieter Williams
We accept all 3rd party medical insurance
• Dr. Bob Harrison
We fill all regular prescriptions too!
• Dr. Alaa Gayed
• Dr. Richard van Gend
• Dr. Hendrik Henstock
604.465.1100
604.465.3375
#100 - 20528 Lougheed Hwy Maple Ridge medlandia.com
#110-20528 Lougheed Hwy, Maple Ridge
Thank you for your ongoing support. We look forward to seeing you again soon.
Retirement planning By Robert Prince
Retirement is not a goal, but a transition. If you don’t already know what you want to do during your retirement years long before you actually pull the trigger, chances are good your retirement is going to be less than satisfactory. That’s the opinion of Tom Manion, owner and advisor from Manion and Associates Financial Services, who tries to impress that philosophy upon all of his clients when they come to him for advice. “You really need to plan what you want to do in retirement long before you actually get there,” Tom opines. “Decide what turns your crank and make plans accordingly, because the reality is, after you retire you’re probably going to be doing most of the same things you did before you retired… except working.” “If you’ve always enjoyed golfing, you’re probably going to keep golfing, and if anything, you’ll probably do more of it.” However, if you’re one of those people who has always talked about traveling but never done it, the studies show you probably won’t do much of it once you’re no longer working, says Tom, who’s been helping people to find the ideal retirement plan for the past 17 years. People are creatures of habit, he notes, and most won’t change their habits dramatically just because they’ve retired. “There’s basically a three-year honeymoon period after a person retires when they think, ‘Wow! I can do anything I want.’ continued on page 8
SAVE $5.00 5.00
$
coupon
towards the purchase of wild bird seed or feeders, with a minimum $25.00 purchase.
L-R Ron, Trevor, Arthur, Brad, Janette, Joanne, Rick
We are proud to be local, with an experienced dedicated staff who live and work in Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows
otter Co-oP At Pitt MeAdows Expires October 31, 2013
Stop In And See One Of Us For All Your Vehicle Needs
WEST
COAST
TOYOTA
Celebrating 83 years of serving the community
otter Co-oP At Pitt MeAdows
• Monday 8am-5:30pm • Tuesday 8am-5:30pm • Wednesday 8am-5:30pm • Thursday 8am-5:30pm • Friday 8am-5:30pm • Saturday 8:30am-5pm
604-465-9146
DL 7662
westcoastautogroup.com 4 – This is the Life, February 2013
MEADOW GARDENS GOLF COURSE
▲
N
DEWDNEY TRK RD SAFEWAY LOUGHEED HWY STAPLES BURGER KING
203
19950 Lougheed Highway, Pitt Meadows
12343 Harris Road, Pitt Meadows 604-465-5651 • 604-465-8755 www.ottercoop.com Mon-Fri 9–5:30 • Sat 9–5 • Sun 10–4
Community Shopping Service Brought to you by
Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows Community Services www.comservice.bc.ca
Our program is a community service partnership that offers customers whom are unable to shop for themselves a resource for weekly grocery delivery service to their front door.
For more information and to place an order call
604.882.7877
Service available in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows only.
In partnership with:
This is the Life, February 2013 – 5
To move or not to move? That’s the tough question By Robert Prince
Marianne Soltau sits with her husband outside their apartment at The Wesbrooke in Pitt Meadows. - Photo by Colleen Flanagan
In 2009, Marianne Soltau tripped on the second last step of the staircase leading down to her basement and shattered her ankle. It was a traumatic occasion, not just because of the pain and long recovery, but because the inability of her and her husband to take care of each other during that awful time. It made the two of them realize the house they’d called home for 30-plus years might not work for them anymore. With both of them in their seventies, and their health situations only getting worse, they eventually came to the decision that it was time to give up their home and find a place to spend their final years that would be a bit safer, a bit closer to
family, and which could provide more amenities and services as they aged. The decision was not arrived at lightly, Marianne confesses. Her husband was reluctant to leave New Westminster because he didn’t want to leave his long-time home, their neighbours and friends, but eventually the practicalities of their situation won the day, and they moved into the newly-completed Wesbrooke Seniors Living Community in Pitt Meadows last December. “It was just too much to handle, especially our general health issues,” Marianne recalls. “I couldn’t look after him when I was injured and he couldn’t look after me. There were mobility issues to consider, but I’m still pretty active and I wanted a place where there were things to do, and there’s a lot around here.” Being closer to their daughter, who lives in Maple Ridge, was important. Two grandchildren and two great-grandchil-
dren also live nearby, so now the Soltaus get to see their grandkids way more than they used to. “It (The Wesbrooke) is the perfect spot for us; it’s been very good for us,” says Marianne, “but it certainly wasn’t an easy decision to give up our home.” Such a decision is rarely easy, says Barbara Risto, author of a book that deals with just these questions. It’s called “To Move Or Not To Move” and it was published the same year Marianne broke her ankle. Barbara, publisher and owner of Senior Living Magazine, says the concerns and issues faced by the Soltaus are pretty common for most seniors at some point. Used to living in the same home for many years, the day eventually comes when they have to think about alternative living arrangements – primarily for health and safety issues. continued on page 7
Personal Touch Hair Care
Would like to thank all of our regular clients for their support & offer any new customers a $10 discount off their initial service! Valid until Sept.30/13
The ripple effect of an estate plan will bring you peace of mind We will help you update or create your Will and also assist you with an estate plan that considers all of your needs, including appointing a trusted person to make financial and healthcare decisions for you, should the need ever arise. A current estate plan will give you, and your family, peace of mind that your personal affairs are in order. Call John Becker or Lisa Frey, our estate planning lawyers, today.
Top (from left): Debbie, Sherine, Pat, Tina Bottom (from left): Barb, Shelly LAWYERS, NOTARIES & TRADE-MARK AGENTS
Call us today!
604 465 9993 BECKERLAWYERS.CA
604.467.8284
Business Law · Family Business Succession Planning · Family Law & Mediation · Franchise Law · ICBC Claims Litigation · Real Estate · Strata Law · Trade-marks, Patents & Copyrights · Wills · Probate & Estate Planning
6 – This is the Life, Fall 2013
Personal Touch Hair Care
Ridge Meadows Seniors Society 12150 224th St, Maple Ridge
continued from page 6 - To move or not to move?
“I did a lot of research and read a lot of articles to compile this book, plus I had a lot of hands-on experience because I was a caregiver to my husband’s mother,” Barbara says. “I had a lot of experience with the kinds of questions people have about whether or not to move.” Common concerns include questions about independence, convenience of services, keeping one’s dignity, lack of mobility, quality of life, plus nearness of family and friends. How people approach the questions is all over the map, she acknowledges. Some plan early, and some wait for the crisis stage to hit. However, the sooner one starts planning to put some safeguards in place, she adds, the better off the person will be. Some lucky people will never have to deal with the situation because they’re in good health, but the majority will eventually have to ask these questions of themselves. There are a wide variety of solutions to the problem of making the big move, but the most important thing is to start thinking about the situation. “There is often a reluctance to discuss this issue with family,” says Barbara. “It’s something some families don’t want to talk about because they don’t want to admit the parents are aging. Also, for some, the family dynamic doesn’t allow for easy dialogue on the matter.” Friends can help, she offers. “Basically, just reach out to whomever is best able to help. Start with family if you can, but talk to friends, or your financial advisor, or your lawyer. Look on the Internet. Visit some seniors homes and facilities and think where you might like to live.” The planning will take some time, so think about what you want and not just what’s available, Barbara advises. To acquire a copy of the book “To Move Or Not To Move,” visit: www.seniorlivingmag.com/bookstore.
ADMINISTRATION OFFICE .......604-467-1554
FOOD COURT A & W .....................................604-463-7201
FASHION
FRESH SLICE PIZZA.................604-463-9171
ARDENE .....................ext 397 778-785-3865
ORANGE JULIUS......................604-467-9015
BLUELINE SPORTS ..................604-467-8892
SANDWICH TREE .....................604-466-3738
BOOTLEGGER/ RICKI’S ............604-463-6774
TOKYO GRILL ..........................604-466-1808
BRYAN’S FASHION...................604-463-2161 EPIC MENSWEAR ....................604-477-0444
FOOD SERVICES
LOUIS LEATHER SHOP .............778-552-0262
HANEY BAKERY .......................604-463-5260
LUXURIE FASHION ...................604-380-1957
KIN’S FARM MARKET ..............604-466-1186
OUTER LIMITS ........................604-467-1166
THRIFTY FOODS ......................604-477-3081
SUZANNE’S.............................604-467-4630
DRUG STORES SHOES
TARGET................................................... TBA
A STEP AHEAD ........................604-466-6405 OUTER LIMITS ........................604-467-1166
HEALTH CARE SERVICES
PAYLESS SHOESOURCE...........604-467-5533
ALOUETTE DENTAL CENTRE ....604-467-6333
TOWN SQUARE COBBLER........604-463-4445
GNC-GENERAL NUTRITION CENTRE ...............................................604-463-8336
JEWELLERY
INDEPENDENT LIFESTYLE STORE
CARTEL JEWELS .....................604-463-3632
...............................................604-477-1212
DEPARTMENT STORE
PERSONAL CARE SERVICES
TARGET................................................... TBA
DIVA’S TOUCH NAILS ...............604-477-1151 FLAWLESS HAIR BY LOUISE ....604-466-2909
ELECTRONICS
Ernie’s friends moved away from the neighbourhood...
BELL MOBILITY .......................604-463-8736
OTHER SERVICES
FIDO .......................................604-467-4818
B.C. LOTTERY CORPORATION ..604-463-7612
TELUS.....................................604-467-5559
BEN’S TOWN TAILOR ...............604-477-8786
THE SOURCE...........................604-466-1690
MARLIN TRAVEL ......................604-463-5171 ROYAL LE PAGE BROOKSIDE REALTY
GIFT & SPECIALTY
...............................................604-463-4231
BENTLEY.................................604-463-8655
TOWN SQUARE COBBLER .......604-463-4445
BLACK BOND BOOKS ..............604-463-8624
PHIL’S ENGRAVING .................604-463-4445
DOLLAR TREE .........................604-466-5205
WESTMINSTER SAVINGS CREDIT UNION
At Chartwell, they’re just down the hall.
GAMERS CHOICE ....................604-477-3332
...............................................604-517-0100
Now, Ernie is part of an active community again. Not only is he making new friends, but he is also back to doing the things he’s always enjoyed: a morning coffee with the gang, a game of afternoon cards and shooting pool after dinner. Like to have your friends down the hall? We can help.
PURDY’S CHOCOLATES ...........604-467-8528
NEW ASSISTED LIVING SERVICES! Our Professinal Health Care Assistants are on staff to aid you with daily living activities, medication, and additional health care services all in the privacy of your own suite! Call us today to arrange your personal visit and discuss the most suitable Independent and Assisted Living Options
CHARTWELL.COM
CHARTWELL WILLOW
PINK CANDLES&GIFTS ............604-461-4456 SHEFIELD & SONS TOBACCONIST GIFTS & SOUVENIRS ...............604-467-6440
Mon, Tues, Wed & Sat
retirement community
9:30 am to 5:30 pm
12275 - 224th Street, Maple Ridge, BC Call 604-466-8602
9:30 am to 9:00 pm
Thurs & Fri Sun & Statutory Holidays Noon to 5:00 pm
224 & Lougheed • 604.467.1554 • haneyplacemall.com This is the Life, Fall 2013 – 7
continued from page 4 - Retirement planning
Cosmetic Precision Denture System™ Premium quality Cosmetic Precision Dentures instill confidence and provide optimum function while eating, speaking and laughing. Sophisticated instrumentation records facial and anatomical information to recreate your natural smile and the youthful facial contours of your lips and cheeks. Our premium quality teeth duplicate natural characteristics and colors found in natural teeth. The contours of our premium teeth are designed to match your skeletal type with feminine and masculine characteristics to accentuate your appeal.
The Art & Advantages of Cosmetic Precision Dentures • Esthetics • Contours • Health • Strength & Fit • Biocompatibility
101-22325 McInstosh Ave., Maple Ridge, BC V2X 3C2
604.467.5655 Call to book your FREE consultation www.precisiondenturist.com
But if they spend that time trying to figure out what they want to do, then they’ve wasted it, and they’ll likely just settle into old patterns.” Tom says retirement should be more of a gentle transition – when you have more control over your time and you don’t have the same responsibilities. For example, some people continue to work after they’ve officially retired because they like their work, but now they don’t have to punch the clock because it’s not as urgent that they be there. Naturally, the state of one’s finances will go a long way to determining how enjoyable those retirement years are going to be, but Tom says new studies have shown that most retirees get by these days on about 50 percent of their pre-retirement income, so that provides some real flexibility. “The key is the preservation of capital, and trying to get more out of what you have rather than trying to get more,” says Tom. “Watching what you spend is important, and keep in mind that as you age you’re likely to spend less per year, so your money will go even further if you’re careful.” Health issues are always a concern, and keeping the mind and body active will definitely make a difference in the quality of life after retirement. Volunteering is a great way to stay involved, and it gives a person a reason to get up in the morning. “It’s also a great way to avoid isolation,” he says, “because ensuring your world doesn’t shrink too much is important, and staying connected to people helps a lot.” The bottom line, says Tom, is that “if you want to have a successful retirement you want to have as much control of your time as possible, and the best way to do that is to plan everything early.”
Pre-Plan your Funeral at No Cost
• Explore Your Options • Record Your Personal Wishes ✓ Pre-planning your funeral will alleviate the stress on your loved ones during a time of grief. ✓ Customize a service best suited to your wishes. ✓ A Prearranged funeral plan is sound estate planning. ✓ Transferring your existing arrangement to us is simple To arrange an appointment to Pre-Plan at no cost please call us at 604-463-8121. For your convenience, an appointment in your home can be arranged.
Maple Ridge Funeral Chapel & Crematorium (Osborn’s)
Samantha Moubert Pre-planning Counselor
8 – This is the Life, Fall 2013
11969 – 216th Street, Maple Ridge
www.mapleridgefuneral.ca
Since 1989
K en J ane Professional Real Estate Services
Experience the Value & Benefit of the Professional Real Estate Services of Ken & Jane Ambrose. e such v a h o t lessed b g n i ho are w s Feel d ien rful fr e altors. d e n o R w g n d cari n a d e iewing v m talent o r back f t o Dad g t d n a Jus m I r Mu o f s n r than e t t e optio b s a lot a . w t i uld be and o w t i t though much, o s s k Than rose! b m A Jane & n e K
Full Time Professional Realtors with Local Knowledge & Experience Keller Williams ELITE Realty
KEN Ambrose, RRS Real Estate Professional Direct: 604.240.2547
Each Office Independently Owned and Operated
#550-20395 Lougheed Highway Maple Ridge, BC V2X 2P9 Phone: 604.465.0030 Fax: 778.786.8431
Scan for more info
JANE Ambrose Real Estate Professional Direct: 604.230.2676 info@KenAndJane.ca
www.KenAndJane.ca
2011
This communication is not intended to cause or induce breach of an existing agency agreement. The enclosed information while deemed to be correct, is not guaranteed. Each office independently owned and operated.
This is the Life, Fall 2013 – 9
Is your will current? By Robert Prince
Do you know what happens to your estate if you don’t have a valid will? Perhaps it’s part of our cultural adversity to talking about death, but Pitt Meadows lawyer Sherri Robinson says not a lot of people know that there’s a set of rules under the B.C. Estate Administration Act that kick in when a person dies intestate. More importantly, they don’t understand that those rules cannot be altered, even if they don’t reflect what the deceased would have wanted. “If you care what happens to your estate after you die, it’s important that you have an up-to-date will,” says Robinson, a wills and estates specialist at Becker and Company Lawyers in Pitt Meadows. “I cannot emphasize that enough.” The key to that is the “up-to-date” part, she adds, noting most people have some kind of will, but it’s often out of date owing to changes in the person’s life and family situation. Robinson suggests a will should be reviewed every five years, or immediately after a major life change – a marriage, divorce or death. • If you don’t have a will, set up a meeting with a lawyer to talk about options, and to get proper advice. They’re the only ones allowed to dispense legal opinions when it comes to estate planning. • If you have a will, review it if you haven’t done so in the past five years. If it’s out of date, update as necessary. • Get proper power of attorney and representation for health care agreements in place. • If you have special circumstances (joint tenancy with children, estranged children, tax implications), then you should definitely seek advice.
open 8am t0 midnight Daily Westgate only!
Natural Wellness Clinic Low Intensity Laser Therapy
Quick, and painless and highly effective laser therapy for all pain conditions and skin conditions including: Arthritis, tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, low back pain, rotator cuff injuries, neck pain, headaches, tennis elbow, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, acne and much more...
Commonly Treated Conditions
Dr. Cobi Slater PhD Natural Health Sciences
A full service phArmAcy* • Blister packaging of prescriptions • Compounding • Free Delivery Available • Open Until 12 Midnight
• Vaccines For Travel ~ Flu~ Shingles • Diabetic Supplies • Private Consultations • Medication Reviews
ShopperS Drug Mart Westgate centre 20395 Lougheed Hwy, Maple Ridge
604-465-8123 10 – This is the Life, Fall 2013
Board Certified Doctor of Natural Medicine Registered Herbal Therapist Registered Orthomolecular Health Practitioner Registered Nutritional Consulting Practitioner
11857 223RD ST., MAPLE RIDGE
• Digestive • Allergies • PMS • Arthritis
• • • •
Menopause Low Energy Weight Loss Skin Conditions
Infrared Sauna Packages... for improved health
• Clear cellulite • Weight loss • Boost immune • Pain relief response • Eliminate harmful • Improve skin toxins conditions & more • Increase circulation
Lab Testing...
the key to fast & effective diagnosis. • Adrenal Stress Index • • Female/Male Hormone Panel • • Menopause • Hormone Panels • Food Allergies • Complete Blood
Analysis Complete Digestive Analysis Bone Marker Test Heavy Metal Testing
www.drcobi.com cshealth@telus.net
604.467.9554
al ital cital al
al tal al cital
Classical Coffee Concerts Classical ClassicalCoffee CoffeeConcerts Concerts Classical with Sarah Hagen with withSarah SarahHagen Hagen with Sarah On select Wednesdays,join joinususforforcoffee, coffee, and treats at am 10 am concert at 10:30 On select Wednesdays, teatea and treats at 10 and and concert at 10:30 am am On On select select Wednesdays, Wednesdays, join join us for coffee, coffee, tea and and treats treats at at am and and concert concert at 10:30 at 10:30 On select Wednesdays, join usus forfor coffee, teatea and treats at 10 1010 amam and amam
TICKETS:$20 $20all allseats seats| |$50 $50 3 performance packFirst — First Concert tickets: forfor 3 performance pack— Concert FREE!FREE! tickets: $20 allall seats forfor performance pack— First tickets: tickets: $20 $20 all seats seats| | $50 |$50 $50 for 33performance 3 performance pack— pack— First First Concert Concert FREE! FREE! 16, 2013 | Sarah| Hagen, (free concert) ■October October 16, 2013 Sarahsolo Hagen, solo (free concert) October 16,16, 2013 Sarah Hagen, solo (free concert) October October 16, 2013 2013 | |Sarah | Sarah Hagen, Hagen, solo solo (free (free concert) concert) 27, 2013 with Rebecca ■November November 27, |2013 | with Wenham, Rebeccacello Wenham, cello November 27,27, 2013 with Rebecca Wenham, cello November November 27, 2013 2013 | |with | with Rebecca Rebecca Wenham, Wenham, cello cello 5, 2014 | with Peter Krysa, violin ■February February 5, 2014 | with Peter Krysa, violin February 2014 with Peter Krysa, violin February February 5,5,2014 5, 2014 | |with | with Peter Peter Krysa, Krysa, violin violin 5, 2014 | with| Robyn soprano ■March March 5, 2014 with Driedger-Klassen, Robyn Driedger-Klassen, soprano March 2014 with Robyn Driedger-Klassen, soprano March March 5,5,2014 5, 2014 | |with | with Robyn Robyn Driedger-Klassen, Driedger-Klassen, soprano soprano
A lovely way to spend a mid-week morning... Classical Coffee Concerts is a new series A lovelybyway to spend a mid-week morning... Classical Coffee Concerts is a new series hosted acclaimed pianist and producer Sarah Hagen. Each morning begins with coffee, Alovely way spend morning... Classical Coffee Concerts A Alovely lovely way way tototo spend spend aamid-week amid-week mid-week morning... morning... Classical Classical Coffee Coffee Concerts Concerts is aisnew a new series series hosted by acclaimed pianist and producer Sarah Hagen. Each morning begins with coffee, tea and treats in
tea and treats in pianist the Studio Theatre at The ACT followed by a 75-minute classical concert hosted acclaimed pianist and producer Sarah Hagen. Each morning begins with coffee, hosted hosted bybyacclaimed by acclaimed pianist and and producer producer Sarah Sarah Hagen. Hagen. Each Each morning morning begins begins with with coffee, coffee, tea tea andand treats treats in in the Studio Theatre at The ACT followed by a 75-minute classical concert led by Sarah and three dates featuring the Studio Theatre The ACT followed byaby a75-minute 75-minute classical concert ledartists. by Sarah Sarah andup-close three dates featuring led by Sarah and three dates featuring world-class musical An and the the Studio Studio Theatre Theatre atatThe at The ACT ACT followed followed by a 75-minute classical classical concert concert led led by by Sarah and and three three dates dates featuring featuring world-class musical artists. An up-close and personal music experience with shared stories and musical world-class musical artists. AnAn up-close and personal music experience with shared stories andand musical personal music experience withand shared stories and musical insights, including world-class world-class musical musical artists. artists. An up-close up-close and personal personal music music experience experience with with shared shared stories stories and musical musical insights, including the opportunity to meet the musicians. Coffee and treats are included. insights, including thethe opportunity meet thethe musicians. Coffee and treats areincluded. included. insights, insights, including including the opportunity opportunity totomeet to meet the musicians. musicians. Coffee Coffee and and treats treats are are included. included. the opportunity to meet the musicians. Coffee and treats are
October 16, 2013 ■October October 16, 2013 October 16, 2013 October 16, 16, 2013 2013
Sarah Hagen | FREE solo recital Sarah Hagen ||FREE FREE solo recital Sarah Hagen solo recital Sarah Sarah Hagen Hagen | | FREE FREE solo solo recital recital
We are treating you to your first Classical Coffee Concert with Canadian pianist, and We are treating you your first Classical Coffee Concert with Canadian pianist, andand We are treating you to you tofirst your firstCoffee Classical Coff ee Concert withpianist, Canadian pianist, We We are are treating treating you you toto your to your first Classical Classical Coffee Concert with with Canadian Canadian pianist, and series host, Sarah Hagen who has been heard inConcert concert halls and on the airwaves to series host, Sarah Hagen who has been heard inconcert concert halls and on the thethe airwaves to to and series host, Sarah Hagen who has been heard in concert halls and onairwaves the airwaves series series host, host, Sarah Sarah Hagen Hagen who who has has been been heard heard in in concert halls halls and and on on airwaves to critical acclaim throughout North America and Europe. As First Prize Winner in the critical acclaim throughout North America and Europe. AsFirst First Prize Winner in the the to critical acclaim throughout North America and Europe. As First Prize Winner critical critical acclaim acclaim throughout North North America America and and Europe. Europe. As As First Prize Prize Winner Winner in in in thethe 2013 Bradshaw &throughout Buono International Piano Competition, Sarah was awarded the 2013 Bradshaw &&Buono Buono International Piano Competition, Sarah waswas awarded thethe the 2013 Bradshaw Buono International Piano Competition, Sarah was awarded 2013 2013 Bradshaw Bradshaw & & Buono International International Piano Piano Competition, Competition, Sarah Sarah was awarded awarded the opportunity totoperform solo at New York City’s Carnegie Hall in May 2013. Sarah’s opportunity perform solo New York City’s Carnegie Hall inMay May 2013. Sarah’s opportunity opportunity toto perform to perform solo solo atatat New at New York York City’s City’s Carnegie Carnegie Hall Hall in in 2013. 2013. Sarah’s Sarah’s opportunity perform solo New York City’s Carnegie in May May 2013. motivation motivationisisthe thebelief beliefthat thatmusic musichas hasthe thepower powerto tobe beaawindow window into into our our souls souls motivation motivation is the is the belief belief that that music music has has the the power power to be to a be window a window into into our our souls souls Sarah’s motivation is the belief that music has the power to be a window into regardless of age or knowledge. Her interpretations have been described as regardless of age or knowledge. Her interpretations have been described as regardless regardless of age of age or knowledge. orofknowledge. Her interpretations interpretations have have been been described described as our souls regardless age orHer knowledge. Her interpretations have as been “outstandingly “outstandinglyinventive,” inventive,”performed performedwith with“infinite “infiniteskill.” skill.” “outstandingly “outstandingly inventive,” inventive,” performed performed withwith “infinite “infinite skill.” skill.” described as “outstandingly inventive,” performed with “infinite skill.”
“Exquisite phrasing and a refreshingly imaginative “Exquisite phrasing and refreshingly imaginative “Exquisite phrasing imaginative “Exquisite “Exquisite phrasing phrasing and and aarefreshingly arefreshingly refreshingly imaginative imaginative approach [Hagen] one to watch.” approach make [Hagen] one to watch.” approach make [Hagen] one to watch.” approach approach make make [Hagen] [Hagen] one one to to watch.” watch.” marcia marciaadair, adair,theomniscientmussel.com theomniscientmussel.com
marcia marcia adair, adair, theomniscientmussel.com theomniscientmussel.com MARCIA ADAIR, THEOMNISCIENTMUSSEL.COM
www.theactmapleridge.org www.theactmapleridge.org www.theactmapleridge.org www.theactmapleridge.org 11944 11944Haney HaneyPlace Place 11944 11944 Haney Haney Place Place 6G1 Maple MapleRidge, Ridge,BC BC V2X V2X 6G1 Maple Ridge, Ridge, BC BC V2XV2X 6G16G1 tel 604.476.2787 telMaple 604.476.2787 tel tel 604.476.2787 604.476.2787
supported supported by by supported supported by by
TheACT ACTad ad // Seniors Seniors Publication Publication The CMYK 10.3125 14” 13 August August 2013 The/ / ACT The ACT ad /ad / Seniors Publication Publication CMYK 10.3125 xxSeniors 14” // 13 2013 Keith Hamilton rare design 604 505 CMYK CMYK / 10.3125 />rare 10.3125 xdesign 14”x 14” /inc: 13tel /tel August 13 August 20134100 2013 Keith Hamilton > inc: 604 505 KeithKeith Hamilton Hamilton > rare > rare design design inc: inc: tel 604 tel 604 505 505 41004100
supported by by supported supported supported by by
This is the Life, Fall 2013 – 11
Fall prevention By Kevin Gillies
Bob Sutherland of the Ridge Meadows Fall Prevention Society educates children on how to prevent their grandparents from falling . - Photo by Colleen Flanagan
The Fraser Health Authority advises that many falls are preventable and there are four things a senior can do to prevent falls: 1) Begin a regular exercise program. Exercise is one of the most important ways to lower your chances of falling. It makes you stronger and helps you feel better. Exercises that improve balance and coordination (like Tai Chi) are the most helpful. 2) Have your health care provider review your medicines. As you get older, the way medicines work in your body can change. Some medicines, or combinations of medicines, can make you sleepy or dizzy and can cause you to fall. 3) Have your vision checked. You may be wearing the wrong glasses or have a condition like glaucoma or cataracts that limits your vision. 4) Make your home safer. About half of all falls happen at home. To make your home safer remove things you can trip over (like papers, books, clothes, and shoes from stairs and places where you walk. Have grab bars put in next to your toilet and in the tub or shower. Use non-slip mats in the bathtub and on shower floors. Improve the lighting in your home. Have handrails and lights put in on all stair cases. Avoid going barefoot or wearing slippers.
Falls are the main reason seniors lose their independence and while risk factors increase with age, falls are not an inevitable part of aging. According to the BC Falls and Injury Prevention Coalition, about one third of people aged 65 years and over typically fall once or more each year in B.C. The advocacy group says people above the age of 65 year typically fall once or more every year and that almost 50 per cent of admissions to long-term care facilities are fall related. And, they say, preventing falls can save your life. “It’s a very serious issue,” says Fabio Feldman, director of fall prevention for Fraser Health Authority, and he adds that his group is doing all it can to educate local seniors about fall prevention. “We have quite a few programs in Maple Ridge. One of them is we’ve developed a fall prevention mobile clinic,” Feldman explains. “This is a clinic that can be set up in a hospital or a stationary setting where we can take health professionals on the road. One of the main areas that we go is Maple Ridge. We take a nurse, a pharmacist, a kinesiologist, a physiotherapist and we have lots of referrals from physicians.” Feldman said the clinics are set up in hospitals, recreation centres, churches, temples, and other places seniors gather like continued on page 13
Thanks, for building
.
our community and country
MARC DALTON MLA MAPLE RIDGE/MISSION My constituency office is here to assist you with: • Government related issues • Information on government programs • Certifying your copies • Arranging congratulatory messages
marc.dalton.mla@leg.bc.ca Visit Marc’s website @ www.marcdaltonmla.bc.ca www.twitter.com/MarcDaltonMLA
#102 - 23015 Dewdney Trunk Rd., Maple Ridge 604-476-4530 12 – This is the Life, Fall 2013
Volunteer Opportunities for Seniors • Community connections • Wide variety of tasks • No minimum requirements
Cythera Thrift Store Unit 140 22255 Dewdney Trunk Road, Maple Ridge, BC
604-467-4671
www.cythera.ca
continued from page 12 - Fall prevention
seniors facilities or assisted-living sites and there, they provide assessment and accommodation about fall prevention to seniors, which is then linked back to their family doctor. “We’ve done over 15 of those clinics in Maple Ridge,” he says. In Canada, falls are the most common cause of injury and the sixth-leading cause of death for seniors. These amount to about $3 billion in annual expenditures on seniors’ fall injuries. About 40 per cent of seniors who fall and need to be hospitalized involve hip fractures and half of those never regain their full function capability from before the fall. The injury prevention coalition also says women are three times more likely than men to be hospitalized for a fall. “Women fall more often than men but men get more serious injuries from falls,” Feldman explains. “They’re usually more-serious falls for men, and they tend not to seek medical attention from their falls. When they go it’s late or it becomes more serious. So the rate of that is actually higher for men than women.” Often seniors can develop a fear of falling that causes them to restrict activities and thereby increase their risk of falling due to weak muscles, stiff joints and poor balance. Falls usually happen in seniors’ homes, in the course of typical daily activities, and for a variety of reasons that can be prevented. For more information of preventing falls, seniors can go online to Fraser Health’s fall prevention site at http://www.fraserhealth.ca/your_health/seniors/falls_and_injury_prevention/ falls_and_injury_prevention. You can also visit the BC Government resource page at http:// www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/topic.page?id=42DF704053A64158ACD3C 4377EB8CC14.
Relax... Leave the
Cleaning to MOLLY MAID! • Customized service to meet your individual needs • Professionally trained, bonded and insured staff • Equipment and supplies provided
www.mollymaid.ca
Pre and Post-Retirement Financial Planning
As a Certified Financial Planner and Elder Planning Counselor we specialize in both pre-retirement and post-retirement planning. Investments • Insurance • Retirement • Estate • Group Benefits
Manion & Associates Financial Services Ltd.
604-463-6060 www.manion.ca
#2 - 22374 Lougheed Highway, Maple Ridge
WE BUY OLD GOLD & DIAMONDS at the best price in Maple Ridge
J
gold rush
ewellers
Your Local Jeweller since 1979
102 - 11811 224th street
Contact us today:
604.467.1433
michele-yonge@mollymaid.ca
Monday - Thursday 9:30 - 5:30 Friday 9:30 - 8:00 • Saturday 9:30 - 5:00 email: goldrush@telus.net website: www.goldrushjewellers.ca
(604) 467-2702
This is the Life, Fall 2013 – 13
“Seniors' Pharmacist” still loves helping people By Robert Prince
Whenever Elaine Cooke leaves the house, it’s a sure bet someone will recognize the “Seniors’ Pharmacist” as she goes about her day. The “Seniors’ Pharmacist” – that’s how Elaine’s known about town, in part because of her work as a local pharmacist for many years, but largely for her work for the drop-in health clinic at the Seniors Centre that she’s been doing since 2003. When the third Tuesday of the month rolls around, Elaine can be found at the Seniors Centre on 224th Street, checking up on local elderly residents who need advice on a wide range of issues – from pharmaceuticals and diabetes to blood pressure and nutrition. She even does flu shots. At 61, Elaine is still going strong even though she’s closing in on senior citizen status herself. Though no longer behind the pharmacy counter, she still works for Safeway – primarily as a diabetes consul-
Foodbanks BC Sharing Coupon program supports housebound seniors and clients who are unable to attend the Friends In Need Food Bank for thier food and necessaties You can be a supporter by purchasing a $2 Foodbanks BC Sharing Coupon when buying your groceries at Save-On-Foods, Thrifty Foods, Coopers, Safeway, Extra Foods and IGA Market Place.
tant who meets with patients to discuss their needs and lifestyle. She also does a lot of travelling to various B.C. cities to train and consult with other Safeway pharmacists so they can help their patients better, and she’s always giving talks to organizations about a wide variety of health-related topics. “My goal is to help people… that’s why I got into pharmacy in the first place.” Diabetes being the ever-expanding health epidemic that it is, Elaine is never without people to talk to about the subject. She’s been a certified diabetes educator since 2002, and does public clinics about diabetes for Safeway, as well as meeting one-on-one with patients when requested. “I was the first certified diabetes specialist for Canada Safeway in Western Canada,” the effervescent pharmacist says with just a hint of pride in her voice. A lot of what she does focuses on self-
Elaine Cooke: The "Seniors' Pharmacist" management of the disease, because most patients see their doctor or a specialist about the subject so infrequently during any given year. “I read recently that the typical diabetes patient spends about 12 hours a year talking to a medical professional specifically about their diabetes. That means that 364.5 days of the year they’re self-managing; my job is to help them do that better.” Anyone interested in consulting with Elaine about their diabetes situation can call her at Safeway, 604-941-8213, or drop by the seniors’ health clinic the third Tuesday of the month at the Seniors Centre, 12150 224 Street in Maple Ridge.
• Wills and Trusts • Estate Planning • Probating of Estates We prepare “PLAIN ENGLISH” wills that are easy to understand. Laurence Anderson
lwacorp@vernon-thompson.com
604-463-6281
22311-119th Avenue, Maple Ridge 14 – This is the Life, Fall 2013
Adding
LIFE To Your Years
Independent Living with Support Services
Tours Are Available Days, Evenings & Weekends By Appointment
Enjoy the company of other residents or entertain family and friends in a private space. Call us for a Lunch & Tour 604-467-2808 11657 Ritchie Ave, Maple Ridge What Are You Doing This Summer?
www.greystoneresidence.ca This is the Life, Fall 2013 – 15
So nice to come home to.
Independent, Assisted Living and Residential Care offered. Safe and secure, all inclusive seniors living. Beautifully appointed studio, 1 and 2 bedroom suites. Delicious home cooked meals prepared by our Red Seal Chef and his team. A variety of recreational activities and bus trips. 24 Hour staff – We’re always here. Call us today to arrange your personal visit 604.476.4306 22141 - 119th Ave., Maple Ridge, BC
mapleridgeseniorsvillage.com