Red Deer Advocate, May 29, 2014

SENIORS’ WEEK JUNE 2-8 2014 Save an additional

Autobahn for All Up to

$1,000

$1,000 Autobahn Cash** -HWWD +\EULG DQG */, DPRXQW VKRZQ

The 2014 Jetta costs as little as a lunch per day.

until June 2 on our most popular models, including the TDI Clean Diesel.**

Own the 2014 Jetta from

$84

bi-weekly for 84 months*

29

The Volkswagen Touareg

Comfortable at VIP events. % Also at DIY Furniture Stores. .GermanAPREngineering beginning from $12,990*** $1,764 down payment

Gary Moe Volkswagen $YDLODEOH RQ WKH -HWWD / 7UHQGOLQH

Gasoline Alley South, (west side) Red Deer

403.342.2923

Visit garymoe.com

Locally Owned & Family Operated

*Limited time finance purchase offer available through Volkswagen Finance, on approved credit. Base MSRP of $16,385 for a new and unregistered 2014 Jetta 2.0L base model with 5-speed manual transmission, including $1,395 freight and PDI, financed at 2.9% APR for 84 months equals 182 bi-weekly payments of $84. $1,764 down payment. $4/tire recycling levy and $6.25 AMVIC fee due at signing. Cost of borrowing is $1,467 for a total obligation of $17,079. PPSA fee, license, insurance, registration, any dealer or other charges, options and applicable taxes are extra. **$1,000 available on cash purchase, finance or lease (through Volkswagen Finance, on approved credit) of a new and unregistered 2014 Jetta, Tiguan, Passat and certain TDI Clean Diesel models. Dealer may sell for less. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Model shown: 2014 Jetta 1.8L Highline, $27,012. Offers end June 2, 2014 and are subject to change or cancellation without notice. Vehicle may not be exactly as shown. Visit your Volkswagen dealer for details. “Volkswagen”, the Volkswagen logo, “Autobahn for All” and “Jetta” are registered trademarks of Volkswagen AG. © 2014 Volkswagen Canada. *** Plus freight & PDI. 78045E29,30

2 FRIDAY forward, May 30, 2014

SENIORS WEEK

Central Alberta LIFE Thursday, May 29, 2014

The Wonderful Ways eReaders Benefit Seniors

can download over 3000 eBooks, eBooks eAudiobooks, eAudiobooks and eMagazines. This service is available free of charge with your RDPL card. Many people love the convenience these digital items bring, as this allows you to check out and return library content from wherever you are – at home relaxing or even while on vacation.

The capability of an eReader to store many different books on the device at the same time offers you many options – allowing you to switch from one book to another should you decide you’re in the mood to read something else. Most eReaders allow you to change the size of the text on the page, making the words bigger or smaller depending on your preferences. eReaders are much lighter than paper books, making them easier to hold for long periods of time.

As well, most of these devices give you a set of basic features to access while reading, including bookmarking your page for later, highlighting 76590E30,F1

With technology quickly becoming part of everyday life, you may have heard about eReaders and wondered what all the hype was about.

Wonder no more…in the next few minutes you will learn what eReaders are, how you can use them at the library, and why they are a great solution for older adults looking for something new to read. eReaders are portable electronic gadgets that allow you to store and read hundreds of books from the same device.

They can be used with the online content offered at Red Deer Public Library, where you

text, text looking up the definition of a word, word sharing a passage through email or social media, and so on.

There are also various accessories that can add to the joy of eReading – including eReader cases, nifty pointers that can help you navigate the touch screen, reading lights, headphones, and so on. The options are endless! And due to their popularity, you can purchase your own eReader for as little as $80 for the eInk screen or around $100 for a colour screen.

Should you decide to purchase a device for yourself, don’t worry about figuring it out on your own. TECH Help sessions are available at the library, where staff can show you the basics of your device, as well as help you download digital library content.

These sessions are free of cost and are open to all age groups.

Contact Briana Ehnes at 403-755-1130 to make an appointment.

One of the goals at RDPL is to offer technology and tech information to customers. It is a challenge to make technology relevant to seniors as they maybe apprehensive to try new things. “It’s surely a learning curve for many,” Ehnes explains. “But if we can offer new technology for people to use, tying it in with a program at the library, they are less intimidated.”

Central Alberta LIFE Thursday, May 29, 2014

SENIORS WEEK

FRIDAY forward, May 30, 2014

3

Seniors Programs in Alberta Seniors are an important and growing part of Alberta. Within the next twenty years, one in five Albertans will be a senior.

Affordable coverage for Albertans ages 65+ If you’re an Albertan age 65 or older, consider the benefits of a Seniors Plus plan from Alberta Blue Cross.

Our plans top up government-sponsored coverage, giving you practical benefits —without a medical review.

Call us today for a free information package!

1-800-394-1965 toll free ABC 83189 2014/01

Within your reach.

403-343-7009 Red Deer

dental care | vision care | podiatrist | chiropractor preferred hospital accommodation | accidental death benefit

78043E29,30

All sectors of society have roles to play in helping seniors to be as healthy as possible and engaged in their communities. The Government of Alberta is committed to supporting seniors, and will keep providing the programs, services and supports that seniors need.

With this in mind, Budget 2014 is providing increases for several programs and services that help seniors stay at home, and maintain their dignity and quality of life.

For example, the Alberta Seniors Benefit provides 150,000 low-income seniors with financial assistance. Budget increases will help seniors who need this support. To help seniors stay in their own homes, Budget 2014 is also allocating additional funding to the Seniors Property Tax Deferral Program to help seniors defer all or part of their annual property taxes with a low interest loan.

Other programs receiving increased funding include the Special Needs Assistance Program, which helps seniors with items such as appliances, essential home repairs and some medical expenses. Additional funding will help ensure this unique program continues to be available to our most vulnerable seniors facing unexpected costs.

Almost 110,000 Albertans, most of them seniors, depend on home care.

Funding for home care and rehabilitation services is increased by 44 per cent. This includes home care funding for 1,000 more people after they go home from hospital.

The first priority of the government is investing in families and communities. Budget 2014 makes that investment by renewing government’s commitment to helping seniors remain in their homes, and stay connected with their communities, families and friends.

For more information on the full range of programs and services available to seniors, please call the Alberta Supports Contact Centre toll-free at 1-877-644-9992, or visit the Alberta Health website at www.health.alberta.ca/seniors.

4 FRIDAY forward, May 30, 2014

SENIORS WEEK

Central Alberta LIFE Thursday, May 29, 2014

Grandparents Helping To Raise Grandchildren (MS) The stalled economy has pushed many families into the position of doing whatever is needed to make ends meet. In many cases, this means both parents working whatever jobs they can find and finding the best childcare option while they are at work. Many people are turning to their parents to help care for their kids.

More than 60 percent of families with children under age 18 had both parents employed outside the home in 2005 to 2006, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That compares to less than a third of mothers in 1975. The numbers today are around 42 percent, a decrease that likely has a lot to do with unemployment figures remaining high. Human Resources and Skills Development Canada states that there are similar statistics among Canadian families.

With so many men and women heading to work each day, and money a factor for doing so, the topic of childcare becomes one of necessity as well as affordability. Grandparents are regularly stepping up to help family members who are under a financial crunch.

Grandparents considering caring for their grandkids should keep in mind some things even if the childcare scenario on the surface seems like it are the best option.

It’s a big commitment.

Once the decision has been made, it is expected that you will be providing care for a certain period of time -- perhaps even without a future end date.

Remember, other arrangements will have to be made if you back out because it’s simply not working.

Know your limits. Childcare is not something to It could be just what you need. On the flip take lightly. While you may have had enough energy to provide care years ago, maybe now you are simply not up to the task or have not identified factors that could hinder your ability to care for a grandchild no matter how much you love him or her.

side, if you have been seeking something to do with your time, being in the presence of your grandchildren could be just what you need to find a purpose to your days.

relationship may cause animosity. If you Be prepared for changes to your life. You will The are offering care to one set of grandchildren no longer be able to operate on your schedule.

Your days will largely revolve around caring for your grandkids. If many of your friends are living active lives without grandchildren in tow, this could put a hamper on your relationships and ability to socialize.

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and are not doing so to another, it could strain the relationships among your children. Think about all of the factors before agreeing to be the caregiver.

Talk to your spouse. If you are married or are in a relationship, this is a decision that will have to be discussed with your partner, whose life will be impacted as well. If both of you aren’t seeing eye to eye on the situation, it may cause a rift that can damage your relationship.

Avoid guilt.

If you choose to say no to the situation, it may generate hurt feelings at the onset, but if you explain your reasons clearly, chances are the loved one will understand how you are feeling.

Although grandparents stepping in to become childcare providers for their grandchildren while parents are at work has become a popular situation in recent years, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of the situation before delving headfirst into the arrangement.

Central Alberta LIFE Thursday, May 29, 2014

SENIORS WEEK

Did you know?

(MS) A transient ischemic attack, often referred to as a “mini stroke,” is an event that’s similar to a stroke. When a person has a TIA, the symptoms are just like those of a stroke, but they last less than 24 hours before disappearing. However, that disappearance does not mean a person is in the clear, as a TIA is a serious warning sign of stroke.

According to the National Stroke Association, up to 40 percent of people who experience a TIA will go on to have an actual stroke, and studies have shown that nearly half of all strokes occur within a day or two of having a TIA. But even those people who do not have a stroke within 48 hours of having a TIA are still at risk of having a stroke. In fact, 10 to 15 percent of people who have a TIA will have a stroke within three months. Symptoms of a TIA are sudden and may include confusion; difficulty speaking or understanding; numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, particularly on one side of the body; vision trouble in one or both eyes; trouble walking; dizziness; and/or loss of balance or coordination. Interrupted blood flow to the brain is often behind a TIA. A lack of blood and oxygen in the brain often leads to the temporary symptoms described above. Should you or a loved one exhibit any of the aforementioned symptoms, seek medical help immediately, even if the symptoms feel or appear as if they are subsiding. A quick response might just prevent a full-on stroke.

These local groups provided the Calendar Information.

The Golden Circle Is a vibrant hub for seniors’ to meet, build community and enjoy the company and support of their peers. Since 1977, the Centre has provided programs, activities, information, resources and outreach for older adults, their families and caregivers.

Please explore our website for more information about our outreach services, resources, programs, events and much more. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at 4620-47A Avenue, Red Deer, AB T4N 6C3 PHONE: (403) 343-6074 FAX: (403) 343-7977 info@goldencircle.ca

The Red Deer Senior Citizens Downtown House A drop in centre for seniors, we offer cards, bingo, carpet bowling, dances, jams and hot or cold lunches. Our card games include - “500”, “crib” and 2 different types of “whist”. We hold crib tournaments each month except for the summer. We have only held whist tournaments every 3 months or so. We have had a fashion show, Mother’s day tea and special suppers.

5415-43 Street, Red Deer, AB T4N 1C9 Phone: 403-346-4043

Red Deer Legion Branch #35 AB-NWT Command 2810 Bremner Ave., Red Deer, AB T4R 1M9 Phone: 403-342-0035

FRIDAY forward, May 30, 2014

5

6 FRIDAY forward, May 30, 2014

SENIORS WEEK

Central Alberta LIFE Thursday, May 29, 2014

JUNE 2014 SUNDAY

1

MONDAY

2

Golden Circle 9:30 Yoga 1:00 Canasta

Tickets on sale for the Canada Celebration on June 27th Downtown House

TUESDAY

3

Golden Circle

9:30-11:30 Pancake Breakfast 1:00 Travel Club 6:00 Horseshoes

8

9

Downtown House 9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:30 “500”

5

Golden Circle

10:00 Yoga 1:30 RD Art Club 6:00 Horseshoes 7:30 Dance Live Band Everyone Welcome

FRIDAY

6

Golden Circle

1:00 Euchre & Scrabble Downtown House

Fun Casino Day Cost $12.00 Tickets in advance

SATURDAY

7

Downtown House

1:30 Cribbage

Downtown House

Red Deer Legion

Old Time Dance Music and Smorg for $13.95

10

Golden Circle

10:00 Bocce 10:00 Yoga 11:30 Hot Lunch 1:30 Cribbage 6:00 Horseshoes 6:30 Partner Bridge Downtown House Tony & Friends 1:30 Bingo

LAST DAY OF SENIORS’ WEEK

15

9:30 Yoga 10:45 Sit & Be Fit 11:30 Lunch (Roast Beef) Pre- sold ticket only 1:00 Singles Bridge

THURSDAY

9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:00 Bridge 1:30 “500”

FIRST DAY OF SENIORS’ WEEK 9:30 Yoga 10:45 Zumba 1:00 Canasta

4

Golden Circle

Downtown House Tony & Friends 1:30 Bingo

9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:30 “500”

Golden Circle

WEDNESDAY

11

Golden Circle

9:30 Yoga 10:45 Sit & Be Fit 11:30 Lunch (Lasagna) 12:00 Nearly New Boutique 1:00 Singles Bridge Downtown House

12

Golden Circle

10:00 Move and Groove 10:00 Yoga 1:30 RD Art Club 6:00 Horseshoes 7:30 Dance Live Band Everyone Welcome

9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:00 Bridge 1:30 “500”

13

Golden Circle

Cribbage Tournament 1:00 Military Whist & Scrabble

14

Downtown House

1:30 Whist

Downtown House

1:30 Cribbage

Red Deer Legion

Old Time Dance Music and Smorg for $13.95

16

Golden Circle

9:30 Yoga 10:45 Zumba 1:00 Canasta Downtown House 9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:30 “500”

17

Golden Circle

10:00 Yoga 10:00 Bocce 11:30 Hot Lunch 1:00 Post Stoke Wellness Group 1:30 Cribbage 6:00 Horseshoes Downtown House Tony & Friends 1:30 Bingo

18

Golden Circle

9:00 Yoga 10:45 Sit & Be Fit 11:30 Lunch (Cabbage Rolls & Perogies) 1:00 Singles Bridge Downtown House

9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:00 Bridge 1:30 “500”

19

Golden Circle

10:00 Move and Groove 10:00 Yoga 1:00 Birthday Party 1:30 RD Art Club 6:00 Horseshoes 7:30 Dance Live Band Everyone Welcome

20

Golden Circle

8:30am-1pm Breakfast Special $5/pp or 2/$9 1:00 Euchre & Scrabble

21

Downtown House

1:30 Whist Tournament 5:30 Roast Beef Supper

Downtown House

1:30 Cribbage

Red Deer Legion

Old Time Dance Music and Smorg for $13.95

22

23

Golden Circle

9:30 Yoga 10:45 Zumba 1:00 Canasta Downtown House 9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:30 “500”

24

Golden Circle

10:00 Yoga 10:00 Bocce 11:30 Hot Lunch 1:00 CNIB Support Group 1:30 Cribbage 6:00 Horseshoes 6:30 Partner Bridge Downtown House Tony & Friends 1:30 Bingo

25

Golden Circle

9:30 Yoga 10:45 Sit & Be Fit 11:30 Lunch(Beef Stew) 1:00 Singles Bridge Downtown House

9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:00 Bridge 1:30 “500” Red Deer Legion

Old Time Dance Music and Smorg for $13.95

29

30

Golden Circle

9:30 Yoga 10:45 Zumba 1:00 Canasta Downtown House 9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:30 “500”

26

Golden Circle

10:00 Move and Groove 10:00 Yoga 1:30 RD Art Club 5:30 Supper Dance Tickets Required 6:00 Horseshoes Downtown House

1:30 Cribbage

27

Golden Circle

1:00 Military Whist & Scrabble 6:00 Celebrate Canada Dinner Downtown House

1:30 Whist 7:00 Karaoke

28

SENIORS WEEK

Central Alberta LIFE Thursday, May 29, 2014

FRIDAY forward, May 30, 2014

JULY 2014 SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

1

Canada Day CLOSED

WEDNESDAY

2

Golden Circle 9:30 Yoga 10:45 Sit & Be Fit 11:30 Lunch (Roast Beef) 12:00 Nearly New Boutique 1:00 Singles Bridge Downtown House 9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:00 Bridge 1:30 “500”

THURSDAY

3

Golden Circle 10:00-6:00 Garage Sale Downtown House 1:30 Cribbage

FRIDAY

4

SATURDAY

Golden Circle 9:00-6:00 Garage Sale Downtown House 1:30 Flag Whist

5

Golden Circle 8:30am-1pm Breakfast Special $5/pp or 2/$9 1:00 Scrabble Downtown House 1:30 Whist

12

Golden Circle 1:00 Scrabble Downtown House 1:30 Whist Tournament

19

Red Deer Legion

Old Time Dance Music and Smorg for $13.95

6

7

Golden Circle 1:00 Canasta Downtown House 9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:30 “500”

8

Golden Circle 9:00 Qigong 10:00 Bocce 11:30 Hot Lunch 1:30 Cribbage 6:00 Horseshoes 6:30 Partner Bridge Downtown House 1:30 Bingo

9

Golden Circle 10am-1pm Free Blood Pressure Clinic 10:45 Sit & Be Fit 11:30 Lunch (Pizza/Salad) 1:00 Singles Bridge Downtown House 9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:00 Bridge 1:30 “500”

10

11

17

18

24

25

Golden Circle 9:00 Qigong 10:00 Move and Groove 1:30 RD Art Club 6:00 Horseshoes Downtown House 1:30 Cribbage Tournament

Red Deer Legion

Old Time Dance Music and Smorg for $13.95

13

14

9:30 Yoga 1:00 Canasta Downtown House 9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:30 “500””

15

Golden Circle 9:00 Qigong 10:00 Bocce 11:30 Hot Lunch 1:30 Cribbage 6:00 Horseshoes Downtown House 1:30 Bingo

16

Golden Circle 11:00 – 1:00 PARADE DAY BBQ 1:00 Singles Bridge Downtown House 9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:00 Bridge 1:30 “500”

Golden Circle 9:00 Qigong 10:00 Move and Groove 1:30 RD Art Club 6:00 Horseshoes Downtown House 1:30 Cribbage

Red Deer Legion

Old Time Dance Music and Smorg for $13.95

20

21

Golden Circle 9:30 Yoga 1:00 Canasta Downtown House 9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:30 “500”

22

Golden Circle 9:00 Qigong 10:00 Bocce 11:30 Hot Lunch 1:30 Cribbage 6:00 Horseshoes 6:30 Partner Bridge Downtown House 1:30 Bingo

23

Golden Circle 9:30 Yoga 10:45 Sit & Be Fit 11:30 Lunch(Chicken Cordon Bleu 12:00 Nearly New Boutique 1:00 Singles Bridge Downtown House 9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:00 Bridge 1:30 “500”

Golde Circle 9:00 Qigong 10:00 Move and Groove 1:30 RD Art Club 6:00 Horseshoes Downtown House 1:30 Cribbage

Red Deer Legion

Old Time Dance Music and Smorg for $13.95 Red Deer Legion

Old Time Dance Music and Smorg for $13.95

27

28

Golden Circle 9:30 Yoga 1:00 Canasta Downtown House 9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:30 “500”

29

Golden Circle 9:00 Qigong 10:00 Bocce 11:30 Hot Lunch 1:30 Cribbage 6:00 Horseshoes Downtown House 1:30 Bingo

30

Golden Circle 9:30 Yoga 10:45 Sit & Be Fit 11:30 Lunch (Liver) 1:00 Singles Bridge Downtown House 9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:00 Bridge 1:30 “500” Red Deer Legion

Old Time Dance Music and Smorg for $13.95

31

Golden Circle 9:00 Qigong 10:00 Move and Groove 1:30 RD Art Club 6:00 Horseshoes Downtown House 1:30 Cribbage

Golden Circle 8:30am-1pm Breakfast Special $5/pp or 2/$9 1:00 Scrabble Downtown House 1:30 Whist

26

7

8 FRIDAY forward, May 30, 2014

SENIORS WEEK

Central Alberta LIFE Thursday, May 29, 2014

AUGUST 2014 SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

1 3

4

Civic Holiday CLOSED

5

Golden Circle 9:00 Qigong 10:00 Bocce 11:30 Hot Lunch 1:30 Cribbage 6:00 Horseshoes Downtown House 1:30 Bingo

6

Golden Circle 9:30 Yoga 10:45 Sit & Be Fit 11:30 Lunch (Roast Beef) 1:00 Bridge Singles Downtown House 9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:00 Bridge 1:30 “500”

7

Golden Circle 9:00 Qigong 10:00 Move and Groove 1:30 RD Art Club 6:00 Horseshoes Downtown House 1:30 Cribbage

8

SATURDAY

Golden Circle 1:00 Scrabble Downtown House 1:30 Flag Whist

2

Golden Circle Military Whist Tournament 1:00 Scrabble Downtown House 1:30 Whist

9

Red Deer Legion

Old Time Dance Music and Smorg for $13.95

10

11

Golden Circle Tickets on sale for Turkey Supper Sept. 12 9:30 Yoga 1:00 Canasta Downtown House 9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:30 “500”

12

Golden Circle 9:00 Qigong 10:00 Bocce 11:30 Hot Lunch 6:00 Horseshoes 6:30 Partner Bridge Downtown House 1:30 Bingo

13

Golden Circle 9:30 Yoga 10:45 Sit & Be Fit 11:30 Lunch ( Chicken Fingers) 1:00 Bridge Singles Downtown House 9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:00 Bridge 1:30 “500”

14

15

21

22

28

29

Golden Circle 9:00 Qigong 10:00 Move and Groove 1:30 RD Art Club 6:00 Horseshoes Downtown House 1:30 Cribbage Tournament

Golden Circle 8:30am-1pm Breakfast Special $5/pp or 2/$9 1:00 Scrabble Downtown House 1:30 Whist Tournament

16

Red Deer Legion

Old Time Dance Music and Smorg for $13.95

17

18

Golden Circle 9:30 Yoga 1:00 Canasta Downtown House 9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:30 “500“

19

Golden Circle 9:00 Qigong 10:00 Bocce 11:30 Hot Lunch 6:00 Horseshoes Downtown House 1:30 Bingo

20

Golden Circle 9:30 Yoga 10:45 Sit & Be Fit 10am-1pm Free Blood Pressure Clinic 11:30 Lunch (Baked Salmon) 1:00 Bridge Singles Downtown House 9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:00 Bridge 1:30 “500”

Golden Circle Flower Show 6:00 Horseshoes Downtown House 1:30 Cribbage

Golden Circle Euchre Tournament Downtown House 1:30 Whist

23

Red Deer Legion

Old Time Dance Music and Smorg for $13.95

24 31

25

Golden Circle 9:30 Yoga 1:00 Canasta Downtown House 9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:30 “500” Tournament

26

Golden Circle 9:00 Qigong 10:00 Bocce 11:30 Hot Lunch 6:00 Horseshoes 6:30 Partner Bridge Downtown House 1:30 Bingo

27

Golden Circle 9:30 Yoga 10:45 Sit & Be Fit 11:30 Lunch (Beef Stroganoff) 1:00 Bridge Singles Downtown House 9:30 Carpet Bowling 1:00 Bridge 1:30 “500” Red Deer Legion

Old Time Dance Music and Smorg for $13.95

Golden Circle 9:00 Qigong 10:00 Move and Groove 1:30 RD Art Club 6:00 Horseshoes Downtown House 1:30 Cribbage

Golden Circle 8:30am-1pm Breakfast Special $5/pp or 2/$9 1:00 Scrabble Downtown House 1:30 Whist

30

Central Alberta LIFE Thursday, May 29, 2014

SENIORS WEEK

FRIDAY forward, May 30, 2014

9

Memory Loss Is Not An Automatic Side Effect Of Aging (MS) While misplaced car keys or forgetting items on your grocery list are nothing to get worked up over, many men and women over 50 do start to worry about memory lapses, especially when they start to occur with more frequency than they might have just a few years ago. But while memory loss might be quickly associated with aging, increased forgetfulness is not an inevitable side effect of getting older, a fact that those at or approaching retirement age should find comforting.

When considering the relationship between memory and aging, it’s important that men and women recognize the distinction between memory lapses and dementia, as the two are not one and the same. As a person ages, his or her hippocampus, the region of the brain involved in the formation and retrieval of memories, often deteriorates. This can affect how long it takes to learn and recall information. But just because this process is slower

does not mean it’s a warning sign of dementia, which is the loss of certain mental functions, including memory.

Though taking longer to recall information can be frustrating, many people still retain their ability to recall information. In addition, while dementia brought on by conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson’s disease is untreatable, there are things men and women can do to strengthen their memories and reduce their momentary lapses in memory.

Become a social butterfly. Maintaining a social life as you age is a great way to keep in touch with friends and family. But there’s another reason to continue to be socially engaged. A 2008 study spearheaded by the clinical trials administrative director at Southern California Kaiser Permanente Medical Group and published in the American Journal of Public Health found that older women who maintained large social networks were 26 percent less likely to develop dementia than women with smaller social networks. In addition, those who had daily contact with friends and family cut their risk of dementia by nearly half. The study also noted that regular social interaction can delay or possibly even prevent cognitive impairment.

Start playing games. Games that test the mind have long been believed to benefit the brain, though some remain skeptical about the true impact of brain games. However, a University of Iowa study funded by the National Institute on Aging found that brain games may in fact pay numerous and long-term dividends. In the study, 681 healthy volunteers over the age of 40 were divided into four groups. One group played computerized crossword puzzles, and three other groups played a brain training video game from Posit Science designed specifically to enhance the speed and accuracy of visual processing.

The volunteers showed less decline in visual processing as well as in other tests that measured concentration, memory and the ability to shift quickly between tasks, and the benefits from the training games lasted as long as seven years after training. Brain games are now more accessible than ever before, as players can access such games on their smartphones, tablets, ereaders, and computers. And in addition to being effective, the games also provide entertainment value.

Alter your routine. Many working professionals recognize that each day tends to have its mundane moments. The brain can grow accustomed to these moments, which tend to be a routine part of the day. But altering your daily routine can jar the brain awake, forcing it to focus during those times that had become mundane but now present new challenges. Something as simple as alternating driving routes to work from day to day or preparing some new, yet healthy, breakfast each morning can help the brain stay alert and sharp.

20

Continue your career. While the idea of retiring poolside

%

and watching the world go by might seem nice, such a scenario is not necessarily good for your brain. Numerous studies have shown the benefits that staying engaged in professional activities can have on brain health. The brain does not thrive if it’s sitting on the sideline. Staying active in your career will continue to provide the challenges your brain needs to stay sharp and avoid memory loss and struggles with concentration. Men and women who want to leave office life behind can branch out on their own and work as consultants or put their years of experience to use by teaching at a nearby university or secondary school. But heading off for the hammock once you have hung up your briefcase can prove troublesome for your brain.

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78044E29,30

No one, regardless of age, is immune to random bouts of memory loss.

10 FRIDAY forward, May 30, 2014

SENIORS WEEK

Central Alberta LIFE Thursday, May 29, 2014

Join in the Managing Money after 50 Discussions

about your Canada Pension Plan (NC) Are you one of millions who wonder how your CPP contributions are invested? This is the year to find out.

On June 9, 2014, the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB) is inviting Canadians to join their “electronic town hall”, an interactive webcast to hear about the organization’s most recent financial performance, and pose any questions we might have to top executives.

CPPIB is a professional investment management organization and on behalf of the 18 million contributors and beneficiaries, it invests the assets of the CPP that are not currently required to pay benefits. The organization holds public meetings every two years to give Canadians an opportunity to find out how it is helping to secure their retirement futures. It also follows rigorous disclosure practices to ensure transparency in its investment operations.

Every two years, the board holds in-person events at one location in each of the nine provinces where Canadians contribute to the CPP. But starting in 2012, it began to offer the live interactive webcast to coincide with the inperson events. This addition gave far more Canadians the opportunity to participate in the meetings. This year, viewers will see a presentation about the investment strategies and financial performance from CPPIB’s president and CEO Mark Wiseman, and from Robert Astley, chair of the board of directors. The two executives will then participate in a live question and answer period, responding to both webcast viewers and to those in the various live locations.

Anyone interested in viewing or participating online can find more information at www.cppib.com. Participants are encouraged to pre-register and submit their questions. The website also lists the locations of the live event locations in each province. The webcast will remain on CPPIB’s site after June 9th so that anyone who missed it can view the meeting.

The good news for Canadians is that the CPP remains financial sound. The chief actuary of Canada examines the financial health of the Canada Pension Plan every three years and issued his latest report in December 2013. In it he reaffirmed that the CPP will remain sustainable at the current contribution rate of 9.9% throughout the future 75-year period of this report, even with the aging of the Canadian population.

The assets of the CPP Fund totaled $201.5 billion at December 31, 2013. The fund is invested in Canada and globally in a broadly diversified portfolio of public and private equities, real estate, infrastructure, and fixed income instruments.

(MS) Investors know that money management can be difficult.

The ebb and flow of the economy can be similar to a roller coaster, with soaring highs followed by steep drops, and those changes all affect investors’ bottom lines. It’s no wonder then that many investors over 50 envision the day when they can get off that roller coaster and simply enjoy their money without having to worry about the everyday ups and downs of the market. But managing money after 50 is about more than just reducing risk.

Reducing risk as retirement draws near is a sound financial strategy that can safeguard men and women over 50 from the fluctuations of the market That’s true whether investors put their money in stocks, real estate or other areas that were not immune to the ups and downs of the economy. But there are additional steps men and women can take after they turn 50 to ensure their golden years are as enjoyable and financially sound as possible.

Prioritize saving for retirement. Men and women over 50 know that retirement is right around the corner. Despite that, many people over 50 still have not prioritized saving for retirement. It’s understandable that other obligations, be it paying kids’ college tuition or offering financial assistance to aging parents, may seem more immediate, but men and women over 50 should recognize that their time to save for retirement is rapidly dwindling. Just because you are retired does not mean your bills will magically disappear. In fact, some of those bills, such as the cost of medical care, are likely to increase. So now is the time to make retirement a priority if you have not already done so. It might be nice to finance a child’s college education, but that should not be done at the expense of your retirement nest egg. Kids have a lifetime ahead of them to repay college loans, while adults over 50 do not have that much time to save for retirement.

Start making decisions

. People retire at different times in their lives. Some people want to keep working as long as they are physically and mentally capable of doing so, while others want to reap what their lifetime of hard work has sewn and retire early.

Finances will likely play a strong role in when you can comfortably retire, so start making decisions about your long-term future. Do you intend to stay in your current home or downsize to a smaller home? Will you stay in your current area or move elsewhere?

These decisions require a careful examination of your finances, and many will hinge on how well you have managed your money in the past and how well you manage it in the years ahead. Managing money after 50 requires more than just allocating resources. Sound money management after 50 also means making decisions about your future and taking the necessary steps to ensure those decisions come to fruition.

Pay down debt. Men and women over 50 are not often associated with debt, but that’s a misconception.

Thanks in part to the recession that began in 2008 and led to high unemployment, many people in the baby boomer generation, which includes people born between the years 1946 and 1964, went back to school to make themselves more attractive to prospective employers. While that might have been a sound decision, it left many deeply in debt. According to a 2013 report from the Chronicle of Higher Education, student loan debt is growing fastest among people over 60, and that debt is not inconsequential. In fact, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York reported in 2013 that the average student loan debt of those over the age of 60 who still owe money is more than $19,000, a considerable increase from 2005, when the average debt was $11,000. Men and women over 50 who are still carrying debt should eliminate consumer debt first as such debt tends to be accompanied by higher interest rates than mortgages and student loan debt. Paying down debt can help reduce stress, improve your quality of life and free up money for living and recreational expenses once you retire.

Examine your insurance policies. Your approach to insurance should change, as you get closer to retirement. For example, you want to maximize your liability insurance on homeowners and auto insurance policies. This ensures the money you have set aside for retirement won’t be going to a third party should you be at-fault in an auto accident or if someone suffers an injury at your home. Experts recommend liability insurance be substantial for men and women over 50, with some suggesting it be as high as twice your net worth.

If it wasn’t already, securing long-term disability insurance should be a priority once you have turned 50. A sudden accident or illness at 55 that prevents you from working could prove devastating to your financial future if you do not have disability insurance. Some employers offer long-term disability, though many people are left to secure policies on their own. Regardless of how you get your disability insurance, make sure you have it and that it provides adequate coverage should you succumb to an illness or injury and be unable to work.

Central Alberta LIFE Thursday, May 29, 2014

SENIORS WEEK

FRIDAY forward, May 30, 2014

11

Yoga not just for Youngsters take steps to reduce their risk of hypertension, and yoga can help them do just that. A normal blood pressure is 120 over 80, but people with hypertension often have blood pressure readings of 140 and above over 90 and above.

Studies have shown that yoga can reduce the top number, which is referred to as the systolic blood pressure. In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Hypertension, researchers found that men and women who practiced yoga for six hours a week for 11 weeks reduced their systolic blood pressure by 33 points. The study’s authors feel that the slow, controlled breathing that’s essential to practicing yoga decreases nervous system activity, helping the body manage its blood pressure levels.

Yoga helps practitioners maintain healthy weights. While yoga may not help men and women shed weight as effectively as more vigorous activities, it can help them maintain healthy weights. Many men and women over 50 find vigorous or strenuous physical activity too demanding, and might not be able to perform such activities with the frequency necessary to prevent weight gain. But while yoga is physically demanding, those who practice yoga often find it takes a smaller toll on their bodies than more traditional strength training. Another way yoga can help to maintain a healthy weight is through its relation to stress. Yoga can help to relieve stress, and lower stress levels reduce the likelihood that men and women will overeat, which is

Yoga promotes strong bones. Osteoporosis is a medical condition in which tissue loss leads to brittle and fragile bones. Aging is a significant risk factor for osteoporosis, and women are at even greater risk than men. The National Osteoporosis Foundation notes that women can lose up to 20 percent of their bone mass in the five to seven years after menopause, so it’s important that women (and men) take steps to strengthen their bones. The nature of yoga makes it an ideal activity to promote healthy bones. Because it is a weight-bearing exercise, yoga forces practitioners to hold the weight of their bodies up against gravity. This resistance to gravity puts mild stress on the bones, which respond by laying down new bone growth. But unlike other weight-bearing activities, such as jogging or walking, yoga does not damage cartilage or put stress on the joints. The AARP notes that studies have indicated the weight-bearing activity of yoga can be especially effective at reducing the risk of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.

Though yoga might not have been popular when today’s men and women over 50 were in their 20s and 30s, that does not mean such men and women cannot take advantage of the numerous physical and mental benefits yoga has to offer.

Celebrate Senior’s Week with Us Join us on June 3rd for a FREE pancake breakfast and open house, 8:30 am to 10:30 am at Park Plaza Intergenerational Centre, #105 5214-47 Ave.

(MS) Yoga is big business, attracting more and more people each year. Designed to promote physical and mental health, yoga has helped millions of people across the globe control their stress and improve their flexibility, and studies have shown that yoga is only growing in popularity. According to a study conducted by the Harris Interactive Service Bureau, roughly 20 million Americans practiced yoga in 2012, marking a 29 percent increase from just four years earlier. While some men and women over 50 may feel their time to take up yoga has passed, nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, yoga can pay numerous dividends for the over 50 crowd.

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blood pressure, hypertension is a potentially dangerous condition that makes the heart work harder to pump blood to the body. Hypertension contributes to a hardening of the arteries known as atherosclerosis, and can even contribute to the development of heart failure. A person’s risk of developing hypertension increases as he or she ages, so it’s important that men and women over 50

a common response to elevated stress levels.

12 FRIDAY forward, May 30, 2014

SENIORS WEEK

Central Alberta LIFE Thursday, May 29, 2014

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