Generations - Spring 2017

Generations For a vibrant, ageless lifestyle

SPRING 2017

Fall Prevention

Stand up and be strong

Swinging away at life

96-year-old still hitting the greens at AGC

It’s Never Too Late A new career after 50

An Echo Press publication Spring 2017 • GENERATIONS | 1

Din󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮󰇮 CHEESES DAIRY DELI ELDEN’S SMOKEHOUSE

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GENERATIONS AN ECHO PRESS PUBLICATION 225 7th Ave. East Alexandria, MN 56308 ©2017 Echo Press EDITOR Lori Mork PUBLISHER Jody Hanson To advertise in Generations call 320.763.3133

RESIDENTIAL COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL AGRICULTURAL CONSTRUCTION

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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lori Mork

Generations Editor

Mary Krueger

Douglas County Senior Coordinator

Jordan McMahon

Marketing Manager/Glenwood State Bank

Coni McKay

Senior Center Co-Director

Experience the Cenex Dif ference!

Celeste Edenloff

News Reporter/Echo Press

Melanie Danner

At-home mother and craft lover

Amy Sunderland

Alexandria Technical and Community College Director of Senior College

Erin McCoy

Director of Rehabilitation Services/ Douglas County Hospital Al Edenloff News Editor/Echo Press

Ask for “Dewey” 320-763-6557 • 800-862-8936 1705 S. Broadway, Alexandria 4 | GENERATIONS • Spring 2017

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PLUS, INFORMATION FROM:

Better Business Bureau, Edward Jones Financial, AARP, AAA, Silver Sneakers, Newspaper Toolbox, ProtectSeniors.com, SeniorAdvisor.com

SPRING

12

2017

for a vibrant, ageless lifestyle

30

18 GENERATIONS RESOURCES

6 Where to turn for help 8 Alexandria Senior Center is there for you

FINANCE

10 Don’t let your investments take a vacation

12 Avoiding identity theft 13 Do you have a retirement plan?

14 10 things to know about Social Security

96-year-old still swinging away at life Being active is important to Alexandria’s Henry “Gordy” Anderson, who can still be found at AGC several days a week.

PAGE 16

EDUCATION

18 Inquiring minds 22 A new career after 50?

23 There’s still time for your childhood dreams

TRAVEL

24 Ready to hit the road?

25 AAA, BBB offer tips for traveling seniors

HEALTH & WELLNESS

26 Fall prevention: Stand up and be strong

28 The worst exercises for older adults 30 Heart health: The good and the bad TECHNOLOGY

32 Addicted to technology?

34 Protect yourself online 35 How to set up a Pinterest account COMMUNITY

36 Volunteering is rewarding work 36 With mentoring, everyone’s a winner 37 10 facts about Baby Boomers 38 Ecumen Bethany Community: Celebrating 100 years

Spring 2017 • GENERATIONS | 5

Where to turn for help The Douglas County Senior Office can help with questions on where to turn for assistance

By Mary Krueger

Douglas County Senior Coordinator

MISSION The Douglas County Senior Services, in partnership with community organizations and volunteers, responds to the evolving needs and desires of seniors by serving as the leading source of information, advocacy and program development and coordination.

WHERE WE ARE LOCATED 806 Fillmore St., Suite 1195 Alexandria, MN Located in the lower level of the Douglas County Service Center at the south end of the hallway by the Douglas County Library

Do you know where to turn to for information regarding yourself or your aging family members? Do you need help understanding Medicare, Parts A, B, C and D? Do you have questions about long term care insurance, advance directives or senior housing or other resources?

The Douglas County Senior Office is your local place to turn to for information and assistance in Douglas County.

We partner with other community organizations and volunteers to respond to the needs and desires of seniors by serving as the leading source of information, assistance and advocacy in our area.

We strive to keep the over-55 population of Douglas County informed on issues that affect them or their family members. We provide up-to-date information on advance directives, senior housing options, health insurance issues, information on caregiver support, respite and home care/hospice programs in Douglas County.

We can help assist with health care referrals, nutrition services, senior companions and Alzheimer caregiving.

There is also a trained health insurance counselor on staff to help with Medicare questions and other insurance concerns.

The Senior Office, along with the Douglas County Sheriff ’s Office and the

Alexandria Police Department form the local TRIAD committee. Together we try to keep citizens of Douglas County informed on fraud and scams that are targeting our older population.

We provide educational classes for seniors on topics such as chronic disease self management, falls prevention, long-term care insurance, Medicare 101, identity theft, advance directives and other topics of interest to seniors. We are available to talk to church groups, community organizations, services groups and senior clubs.

We provide an Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group that meets on the fourth Thursday of the month at 1:30 p.m. at Douglas County Public Works. There is also a general caregiver support group that meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 2 p.m. at First Lutheran Church.

We do local senior housing tours about four times a year. This gives seniors and their family members an opportunity to visit adult foster care homes, assisted livings and senior apartment buildings in a group setting.

For more information on any of these topics or anything else that interests you in regards to seniors, contact the Douglas County Senior Office at (320) 7623047.

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WHAT WE DO Douglas County Senior Services provides advocacy, information, assistance, program development and coordination of services to the over-55 population of Douglas County. The program provides outreach on many topics including advance directives, scams/frauds, identity theft, resources and housing information, matter of balance classes, chronic disease self management classes and information on advance care planning.

The Office also provides health insurance counseling on Medicare part A, B, C and D along with medical assistance information, and long-term care insurance assistance. It

has an Alzheimer’s caregiver support group and a general caregiver support group, and works in conjunction with both the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and the Alexandria Police Department on TRIAD, a group dedicated to the education of seniors of Douglas County in regards to frauds, scams and other crimes against the seniors. The NAPS (Nutrition Assistance Program for Seniors) is a supplemental food program for seniors that is free to all who qualify.

Staff is available to come to your organization and offer presentations on a number of topics of interest to the senior population.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Call (320) 762-3047 or visit http://www.co.douglas.mn.us/dc/ senior-resource-health.aspx for information on senior health resources or http://www.co.douglas.mn.us/dc/senior-housing-health.aspx for senior housing information.

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Spring 2017 • GENERATIONS | 7

Alexandria Senior Center is there for you A wide variety of services and social activities are available for those 50 and older

By Coni McKay

Senior Center Co-Director

Did you know if you are over 50 years old, you are qualified to utilize the many services of the Alexandria Senior Center?

Located at 414 Hawthorne Street in historic Downtown Alexandria, the center welcomes all. There is the Lorsung Art Studio, a variety of meeting rooms that anyone can rent, and a state-of-the-art commercial kitchen. There are activities and entertainment on a regular basis; there are also programs sponsored by AARP that utilize the Alexandria Senior Center space and can help you save money each year.

In today’s world, the term “senior” has a totally different meaning than it did 40 years ago. If you were a “senior” 40 years ago, you were likely in

your early 60s. Due to advances in medicine and improved health care knowledge, the average life expectancy is far greater in 2017 than it was in 1977. According to www. data360.org, average life expectancy in the United States for men and women today is 82 years. In 1977, the average life expectancy was 77 years.

Today, more and more Americans are living well into their 90s or even hitting 100.

The Alexandria Senior Center was created in 1984 as a nonprofit organization. Then, and now, it is a local spot where seniors come together to enjoy cards, meals, special events and fellowship. While much has changed in the Alexandria Lakes region since 1984, the mission of the Alexandria Se-

8 | GENERATIONS • Spring 2017

To support healthy, active living for people over 50 by providing social, educational, nutritional and information services.

Alexandria Senior Center Mission

nior Center has not wavered.

Our stated mission is: “To support healthy, active living for people over 50 by providing social, educational, nutritional and information services.”

The Alexandria Senior Center has grown its membership in the past 5 years to an amazing 840 members. Members currently receive many benefits, including a monthly newsletter, reduced fees for meals, classes and facility room rentals. At the Senior Center, members have access to free internet and Wi-Fi, and some qualify for annual free income tax preparation. Nutrition Services Incorporated provides onsite lunches five days a week for seniors, and also provides the Meals on Wheels service

for those unable to come to the center for lunch. The Alexandria Senior Center also has an extensive lending library and offers free computer and cell phone assistance for those seniors wishing to learn more about the digital world.

There are many opportunities for entertainment and fun at the Alexandria Senior Center every month. From live music, card game groups and bingo to pool enthusiasts and birthday parties, there is truly something for everyone at the center.

For more information on services and programs available at the Alexandria Senior Center or to become a member, stop by 414 Hawthorne Street, or call 320-762-2087.

The News & So Much More

There’s a lot inside – and online!

Take us everywhere! www.echopress.com Contact us at 320-763-3133 or echo@echopress.com

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Spring 2017 • GENERATIONS | 9

Don’t let your investments take a “vacation” Make sure your portfolio continues to work hard all year

By Edward Jones Financial Advisors

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It’s summer again – time for As you know, different inmany of us to take a break and vestments have different charpossibly hit the open road. But acteristics and can help you in even if you go on vacation, you different ways. For example, won’t want your investments you typically own stocks beto do the same – in summer- cause you want them to grow time or any other season. How in value so that you can evencan you help make sure your tually sell them for a profit. portfolio continues to work Other investments, such as hard for you all year long? certificates of deposit (CDs), Here are a few suggestions: provide you with a regular •Avoid owning too many source of income and Size: stabili3.5” x 2.5” | Maximum Font “low growth” investments.

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ty of principal – two valuable contributions to your portfolio.

However, investments like CDs don’t offer much in the way of growth. So if you own too many of them, you might be slowing your progress toward your important financial goals, such as a comfortable retirement.

You can maximize the productivity of your portfolio by owning a variety of investments – domestic stocks, international stocks, corporate bonds, U.S. Treasury securities, CDs and more. How much 30 ptinvestment should you of each

own? The answer depends on a variety of factors, including your age, income, risk tolerance, family situation and specific objectives.

Over time, your ideal investment mix may change, but you’ll likely need at least some growth potential at every stage of your life.

•Don’t let your portfolio go “unsupervised.”

Your investment portfolio can be subject to “drift” if left alone for extended time periods. In fact, without your making any moves at all, your portfolio can move in directions that may not be

3.5” x 2.5” | Maximum Font Size: 30 pt 3.5” x 2.5” | Maximum Font Size: 30 pt

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Finding solutions Finding solutions for for your financial needs your financial needs Finding solutions f

Mem

favorable to you. Suppose you think your holdings should be made up of 70 percent stocks, but due to strong gains, your stocks now make up 80% of your portfolio. This development could lead to a risk level that feels uncomfortably high to you. That’s why you should review your portfolio at least once a year, possibly with the help of a financial professional, to check your progress and make adjustments as needed.

•Don’t stop at the nearest “resting place.”

Some people hope that if they can get that one “winner,” they will triumph in the investment arena. But the ability to “get rich quick” is much more of a myth than a reality. True investment success typically requires patience, persistence and the resilience to continue investing even during market downturns.

In other words, investing is a long-term endeavor, and you need a portfolio that reflects

this reality. The investment moves you make today may pay off for you decades from now. You need to establish your goals and keep them constantly in mind as you invest.

And you will never really reach

the end of your investment journey, because you’ll need to make choices and manage your portfolio throughout your retirement years.

Hopefully, you will enjoy a pleasant vacation sometime

this summer. But your investment portfolio shouldn’t take time off.

This article was written by Edward Jones.

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AVOIDING

Identity theft

By Jordan A. McMahon

Glenwood State Bank

Over 50? You may be at an increased risk of identity theft!

Thieves and scammers prey on groups of people who are considered to be more vulnerable than others; they assume older generations are more trusting and have assets worth stealing.

Identity theft begins when criminals get their hands on your personal, confidential information. Social Security numbers, birthdates, and bank account numbers are extremely valuable pieces of information and, in the wrong hands, can lead to identity theft.

If a criminal obtains personal information about you, they may: •drain your bank accounts; •incur charges on your credit cards for items you never receive; •bill your Medicaid or insurance company to receive benefits on your behalf; •file tax returns, under your name, to receive refunds; •take over your military benefits; or

•collect and cash your Social Security checks.

So what can you do to prevent identity theft?

Be cautious. Criminals may impersonate people you trust, like family members, government officials, charities, or companies you do business with. If they ask for information or money, be sure to verify they are legitimate before doing anything.

Be aware. Stay up-to-date on common identity theft and fraud schemes. Visit www.consumer.ftc.gov to learn more and sign up for alert emails.

Be watchful. Always check

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your bank and credit card statements for accuracy; if there is a discrepancy or something you can’t account for, start asking questions immediately.

Be prompt. Collect your mail promptly; criminals may remove bills and statements from your mailbox to obtain your personal information.

Be smart. Get rid of old bills and statements; shred anything you don’t absolutely need and keep current documents in a safe place.

Be proactive. Register for identity theft protection or restoration programs at your financial institution, or with

organizations like AARP. It’s simple, inexpensive, and will give you peace of mind and a lot of resources if something does happen.

You and your actions play a large role in your susceptibility to identity theft; protect yourself. If you ever suspect you’re a victim, contact your local law enforcement, your financial institution, or visit www.identitytheft.gov for step-by-step recovery information.

Jordan McMahon is the Marketing Manager at Glenwood State Bank.

YOU’RE RETIRING.

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Have you started to make plans for your retirement? To make sure you have the means to achieve them, good financial planning is essential. A solid retirement plan will allow you to assess the revenue you’re going to need and what sources of income you’ll have when the time comes.

Generally speaking, you’ll need 70 percent of your average annual gross income over the last three years of your working life in order to maintain your standard of living after retirement. Why not 100 percent? Even though leisure expenses will increase after retirement, those associated with work will diminish or even disappear. You’ll be paying less income tax and you’ll no longer need to contribute to your retirement plans.

Naturally, the percentage will vary according to your salary, the age at which you retire, your family expenses, personal savings, and what you want to do during your retirement years. To determine the income and savings you’ll need to live a fulfilling retirement, you’ll also have to take into account inflation and the fact that healthcare expenses could eventually increase.

Are you struggling to answer all these questions? Consulting a financial planner is always advisable if you want to benefit from the best possible retirement plan.

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Spring 2017 • GENERATIONS | 13

10 Social Security things to know about

By AARP

Here are answers to some commonly asked questions

1

Is Social Security just for retired workers? No. As of June 2016, 16 percent of beneficiaries were disabled workers and their dependents, and 13 percent were survivors (such as widows, widowers and children).

2

At what age can I start collecting Social Security benefits? Workers can begin receiving retirement benefits at age 62, but your benefit will be greater if you wait until your full retirement age (currently 66 for those born after 1942) or later. Widows, widowers, surviving children, the disabled and children of the disabled can start collecting earlier. Full retirement ages are based on the year of your birth.

3

How do I sign up for Social Security benefits? Apply for Social Security benefits online, at your local office or by phone at 800-772-1213. To collect your full retirement benefits, apply to the Social Security Administration (SSA) three months before you wish to receive your first payment.

14 | GENERATIONS • Spring 2017

4

www.aarp.org

How long do I need to work to become eligible for benefits? If you were born in 1929 or later, you need to work at least 10 years to become eligible for Social Security. The SSA determines eligibility with a system of credits. Basically, you earn up to four credits for every year worked, and you need a total of 40 credits to qualify for Social Security.

5

Must I stop working to collect Social Security benefits? No, you can receive benefits while working.

But, if you are younger than the full retirement age and earn more than a certain amount, your monthly benefits will be temporarily reduced. Once you reach full retirement age, however, your benefits will be increased to make up for what was lost over time.

6

What’s the maximum monthly Social Security benefit? For a worker retiring in 2017 at the full retirement age of 66, the highest monthly amount is $2,687. In December 2016, the average monthly Social Security benefit for a retired worker was about $1,360.

7

Can I receive Social Security benefits based on the earnings of a former spouse? Yes, as long as you were

married for 10 years and you aren’t remarried. If so, you’re eligible to claim Social Security benefits under your ex-spouse’s earnings if they turn out to be higher than your own.

8

How can I boost the amount of my Social Security check? Bottom line: The longer you wait to start collecting after you become eligible at 62, the higher the amount you will receive. For instance, by postponing Social Security until your full retirement age of 66, your benefit will be 25 percent higher than if you started as early as possible. Delay Social Security beyond your full retirement age, and your benefit will go up 8 percent a year until 70 — a 32 percent bonus.

9

How can I receive my Social Security payments? The Department of Treasury did away with paper checks in March 2013 in favor of direct deposit and debit cards.

10

When someone dies, how does the Social Security Administration know? The SSA receives reports of beneficiary deaths from family members, funeral homes and other government agencies. You should inform the SSA as soon as possible when a person dies.

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96-year-old still swinging Being active is important to Alexandria’s Henry “Gordy” Anderson, who can still be found at AGC several days a week

16 | GENERATIONS • Spring 2017

By Celeste Edenloff Contributing writer

Exercising and participating in sports has always been a part of Henry “Gordy” Anderson’s life.

“I was very active in athletics,” said Anderson, who is now retired and lives in Alexandria. “Being active was important. It’s still important.”

In high school, he played football and basketball and ran track. He even went to state for high jump. About the only sport he didn’t participate in, he said, was golf.

But now, several days a week, you can find the 96-year-old out on the course at the Alexandria Golf Club.

When he was around 30, Anderson started golfing after a friend talked him into it.

“I picked up on it rather quickly,” he said, adding that his friend brought him to a couple of tournaments and that he liked competing. “Competition is important to me. It was good for me.”

Over the years, he golfed in the Pine to Palm Golf Tournament in Detroit Lakes at least two or three times and he golfed in the Birchmont Golf Tournament in Bemidji 26 years straight. And he also golfed in The Resorters Golf Tournament here in Alexandria at least three times.

Because of his experience with The Resorters Golf Tournament coupled with the fact that he loved the course, it was a natural fit for him to become a member of the Alexandria Golf Club.

He joined in 1993 and has loved it ever since.

“This course has everything I could ask for and even at my advanced age, I play fairly well,” said Anderson, who had just played 18 holes before being interviewed.

He credits Lisa Grimes, director of instruction at the golf club, for helping him to perfect his golf swing. For those who are just starting out in the game, Anderson advised finding a good instructor.

away at life Staying active is important and my faith is also important to me.

It serves as my guidepost.

To live the good life I have for 96 years is something. I attribute staying active and exercising to my longevity.

Henry “Gordy” Anderson

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he was a medalist in the tournament.

When asked if he ever had any holes-in-one, Anderson said he’s had four, which included one at the Alexandria Golf Club on hole number 17.

“I think it was more of an accident,” he said with a chuckle.

“Because it just kind of rolled into the hole.”

Besides playing golf, Anderson also works out at the local YMCA at least three times per week.

“Staying active is important and my faith is also important to me,” said Anderson. “It serves as my guidepost. To live the good life I have for 96 years is something. I attribute staying active and exercising to my longevity.”

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“Don’t do it on your own,” he said. “Work with someone.

Golf is a difficult sport to master.”

Anderson also shared his affinity for The Resorters Golf Tournament.

Reminiscing about the long-time Alexandria golf tournament, his eyes twinkled and the smile on face grew larger as he looked at all the old photos and newspaper clippings under the glasstopped table in the clubhouse.

The tournament, he said, brings back many fond memories. A fun fact he shared was that The Resorters started the year he was born, in 1921, and that the last Resorters tournament he golfed in was in 1994, when he was 73 years old. He also remembered 1986, when

Anderson retired in 1980 after working in school administration for 34 years. He and his wife, Gloria, who passed away in August 2014, moved to the Alexandria area in 1992. With everything the Alexandria

area has to offer – lakes, reputable medical facilities, stateof-the-art school system and of course, golf courses – Anderson said it was the right fit.

Photos by Lowell Anderson, Echo Press

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INQUIRING

Alexandria Technical and Community College is home to a vibrant lecture series where scholars from around the state and beyond share their expertise on a range of topics. Individual sessions delve into history, economics, religion, political science, international affairs; each providing fascinating insights and context relevant to things that matter in our world today.

Alexandria Technical and Community College established Senior College in 2006 in response to community interest in informative and challenging college learning without the pressures of tests, grades or degrees. Designed for adults 50+, Senior College is open to adults of any age. Participants range from age 45-95.

Three “seasons” of programming are offered. Fall and Spring seasons each offer 15 lectures; a January term is 3 weeks with 6 lectures. All lec-

MINDS: Senior college lecture series held at Alexandria Technical and Community College

By Amy Sunderland

ATCC Director of Senior College

tures are held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:15-5:15 p.m. in the auditorium of the ATCC Information and Technology Center. It’s a most congenial setting and coffee and cookies nourish the conversation.

Senior College has hosted some of Minnesota’s best college professors. From the University of Minnesota, we have featured lecturers such as Mark Seeley, U of M Climatologist, helping us to understand weather patterns; Mike Osterholm from Public Health and former state epidemiologist on infectious diseases; and cutting edge research on food security and water resources. They’ve shown initiatives underway to develop solutions that affect our lives. Other lectures have analyzed elections, the state of the economy, U.S. relations with China, Russia, the Middle East; SENIOR COLLEGE Page 19

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SENIOR COLLEGE From page 18

we’ve sorted through current issues like health care, climate change and the national debt – all in the great backdrop of history. In addition, lectures have delved into patterns of population movement, great historical periods, events and people and explored new technologies, how cells work in all living things and taken creative journeys into arts, music and theater.

Professors have also come from University of Minnesota Morris, University of Minnesota Duluth, College of St. Benedict and St. John’s University, St. Thomas University, St. Olaf College, Hamline University, Macalester College, Augsburg College, and right here at Alexandria Technical and Community College.

Senior College showcases the excellent teaching and scholarship of Minnesota’s

treasured colleges and universities – schools that have launched many of our residents, teachers and leaders.

Fondly known as a “Health Club for the Mind,” lectures at Senior College leave attendees inspired to think, read and talk about things. It demonstrates learning is exciting, challenging, relevant - and it never ends.

Senior College has grown as word spreads and friends are eager to engage in good conversations and as the Alexandria area population grows and residents seek ways to connect with the world and with others. Each lecture draws 130150 people from around West Central Minnesota.

Over the years, businesses and non-profit and educational institutions have joined in sponsoring programs. Regular collaboration with the Univer-

sity of Minnesota Alumni Association West Central Chapter and the McCarthy Center for Public Policy and Civic Engagement at St John’s University join shared missions and audiences.

Donations from individuals who appreciate the program also provide important support. If you are interested in supporting Senior College, please contact

the Alexandria Technical and Community College Foundation.

Information on the Fall 2017 program will be out in August and lectures begin in September. For more information, please contact the Customized Training Center at 762-4510 or 888-234-1313, or visit www. alextech.edu/SeniorCollege.

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Spring 2017 • GENERATIONS | 19

Rainbow Rider safe, reliable transportation for all ages

STUDENTS

SENIORS

EVERYONE

Thousands of students each year use Rainbow Rider bus service as a safe, efficient way to get to sports, practice, dance, music lessons and other student events.

Need a lift to your next medical appointment or shopping trip? No forms to fill out, just service with a smile. Call today.

Without a ride? We service a six-county area and travel distances as well as short trips. Check out our affordable rates.

Rides

All rides are pre-arranged by calling our dispatch center at 320-283-5061 or 1-800-450-7770 between the hours of 6 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Monday through Friday.

we go where you go!

SCHOOL | ACTIVITIES | WORK | MEDICAL APPTS | STORES & MORE! 20 | GENERATIONS • Spring 2017

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e meet the transportation needs of residents in Douglas, Grant, Pope, Stevens, Todd, and Traverse Counties, and are dedicated to the highest quality of customer service delivered with a sense of warmth, friendliness, individual pride, and company spirit.

Rainbow Rider is your public transportation system serving residents of all ages. We have no income or age restrictions and no forms to fill out.

We offer bus service as well as a Volunteer Driver Program, in which volunteer drivers can get you to your desired destination.

All buses are complete with handicapped accessible lifts to accommodate any specific needs you may have.

schedule your ride today

1

$

EXPRESS ROUTE

Runs Mon.-Fri. $1 per ride.

Repeats every half hour 10am-6pm

ROUTE 1 WalMart Alexandria Clinic Viking Plaza Mall Cub Foods Sanford Clinic

10:00 am 10:10 am 10:15 am 10:20 am 10:25 am

ROUTE 2 Bethel I Viking Towers Senior Center Elden’s Fresh Foods All-Stop Gas Station Windmill Pond

10:15 am 10:20 am 10:30 am 10:35 am 10:45 am 10:50 am

Regular rate of 0-5 miles is $2.

Additional miles are extra.

Driver program available for long distances.

Please schedule in advance.

320-283-5061 Spring 2017 • GENERATIONS | 21 001435851r1

A new career after 50?

With planning, there’s still time to try something new

By Lori Mork Generations editor

ance in your life, make sure your second career fits that goal. But if you’re looking for a more challenging career, you may decide that the time demand is worth it.

Analyse your skillset honestly. Despite years of experience to call upon, professionals still need to assess their talents with an unbiased eye.

With your new career goal in mind, it’s possible that more schooling might be necessary.

If you’re looking to make use of the skills already at hand but in a different field, evaluate those skills to see what are the most valuable, then look for careers that can make use of them.

Try it out. Nothing says you can’t try out a new career while still in your current profession. A trial run – possibly by volunteering in that field – can give you a taste of your second chance. It will give you an opportunity to evaluate your skills in a working environment and find out if your second career is the one you are really interested in.

Speak to experience. Many others have made the switch in careers after 50, so take the time to talk to a few you may know. It will give you an opportunity to gauge the pros and cons of changing. They may also be able to help you find career options that are right for you.

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Staying with the same company throughout your career seems to be an idea that has gone by the wayside, but these days, people not only switch companies, but even switch professions.

For those 50 and older, this decision comes with several risks, such as the impact on finances and retirement, but by taking some steps to minimize these risks, a person’s second career can be just as successful as their first.

Decide what you want in your new career. Are you dissatisified with the demands of your current job? Does it leave too little time for family? If looking to establish more bal-

22 | GENERATIONS • Spring 2017

There’s still time for your

childhood dreams You’re never too old to dream. In fact it’s just the opposite. Retirement is the perfect opportunity to achieve your wildest dreams, your youthful dreams, or to pursue new ones that are more in line with your latest interests. While some people dream of climbing in the Himalayas, others prefer something a little more relaxing; the constraints of your physical abilities are the only limitation. Whatever your dreams, it’s time to believe in yourself and give yourself the means to achieve them.

You could embark on a major project that is close to your heart, such as going back to school or training for a new job; you could start a small business, go abroad for a year, make the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, or write a novel.

Living out your dreams also means doing some simple things that you just never had time to do before: learn to play an instrument, see all your favorite director’s movies, read the great literary classics, or learn to make wedding cakes. It also means spoiling yourself by doing a few of the oncein-a-lifetime-things that you always promised yourself, such as going on an Alaskan cruise, a ride in a hot air balloon, or a trip to Las Vegas to see a show.

Dreams can be satisfying without having to be grandiose or out of your comfort zone. Whether you crave adventure or relaxation, the important thing is not to have regrets, to not say later that you should have done this or that when the opportunity presented itself.

Relax!

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Spring 2017 • GENERATIONS | 23

Ready to hit the road?

Embrace the ability to travel from wherever you want

By Lori Mork

Is retirement on the horizon for you but you still don’t know where you might want to land?

You don’t need to make a permanent choice if you retire to a recreational vehicle.

Living in an RV will allow you to drive from town to town in your own home, visiting your grandchildren one week and heading for warmer climates the next.

Today’s RV can be spacious and well-equipped, giving you every amenity you might want.

Here are some reasons to consider RV living during your retirement years:

1

Generations editor

Save money. RV living can allow you to retire on a budget even with high fuel prices. In many states, you can camp for free or a minimal price and there are many campgrounds that belong to networks that charge half of their regular rates if you are a member.

3

Make new friends.

When you hit the road, you are able to start fresh and can be open to meeting new people. When RVing, people seem to have more time to socialize without the stress of job responsibilities.

You’re able to discover new

4

2

places, travel with others and share meals with new acquaintances.

Simplify your life. Space is limited in an RV and gives you that push to de-clutter your life. If there are some things that you just can’t give up, you can always rent a storage unit for those special mementos or give them to your family.

Enjoy family. When you visit your family, you can have your own space at the end of the day. It allows

you to spend time together, but still gives you some privacy.

5

Enjoy your freedom.

There are so many places to see and you now have that opportunity with your RV. You can choose where you want to go, how long you want to stay and what you want to see.

Even if you’re not quite ready to retire, you have time to investigate this way of life and even give it a try before you make any final decisions.

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AAA, BBB offer tips for traveling seniors Whatever time of year, getaways are always fun – but planning ahead is an important part of the process, especially for senior travelers. AAA – The Auto Club Group and Better Business Bureau® of Minnesota and North Dakota (BBB) offer some timely tips to help seniors stay safe while traveling and also save money.

Here are some ways seniors can stay safe and possibly save some cash: Be prepared. If you’re planning on driving, be sure your car is tuned-up and road-ready. Then drivers should do the same thing for themselves; take your medications and also be sure those medications won’t impair your performance behind the wheel. If you have health concerns, see your physician or an optometrist before setting out.

Get retrained. Older adults can also keep their driving skills sharp by taking a seasoned driver training course.

Make a budget. Planning is important. Having a budget in place will help keep a lid on expenses. However, be sure to include a little breathing room in your budget by accounting for an unexpected emergency.

Be resourceful. AAA has voluminous resources for vacation planning, reservations, maps and directions as well as theme parks and attractions at AAA.com.

Also, check the State Tourism Board or local Chamber of Commerce website where you will be vacationing for interesting recreational ideas. Look online to find any money-saving discount offers in the city you’re visiting.

Short and sweet. You don’t have to go on a two-week trip in order to feel refreshed after a vacation. Make a long weekend of it and maximize your itinerary by planning activities ahead of time.

Consider an extended stay hotel. You can lock in a weekly rate and – sometimes - secure a room with kitchen accommodations at hotels that offer extended stay packages. Be sure to get a detailed price quote and research the hotel at bbb.org.

It’s also a good idea to see what kind of rates you can find through travel services such as Priceline, Kayak, Hotels.com and AAA.com.

Pack some meals to-go. When you’re on the road, travel with a cooler and purchase snacks ahead of time. When you arrive at your destination, look for rooms with a kitchenette or hotels that offer free continental breakfasts.

Use public transportation. Choose a destination with lots to see and do, and simply walk from place to place. Also, consider using local bus or transit service rather than driving and parking.

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FALL PREVENTION

Stand up and be strong Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries among older adults

By Erin McCoy

Director of Rehabilitation Services Douglas County Hospital

Why should our community care about preventing falls? According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Falls are the leading cause of fatal and nonfatal injuries among persons age 65 and younger.

One-fourth of Americans aged 65 and older falls each year.

Falls result in more than 2.8 million injuries treated in emergency departments annually, including over 800,000 hospitalizations and more than 27,000 deaths.

Falls, even without injury, can significantly impact one’s quality of life. A growing number of older adults fear falling and, as a result, limit their activities and social engagements. This can lead to fur-

ther physical decline, depression, and social isolation. In fact, research shows that the fear of falling is actually a predictor of future falls.

Use the test on this page to determine your, or your loved one’s, risk of falling.

You will need a straight-backed chair and a stopwatch (or clock with a second hand).

Perform these exercises three to five times each week. Reassess your risk level every three months to keep track of your progress.

You can learn more about how you can reduce your risk of falling and protect your loved ones from a serious fall at www.ncoa.org/FallsPrevention.

FALLING RISK EVALUATION Sit in the middle of the chair with feet flat on the floor and arms folded across your chest.

(See photo opposite page) Time yourself or have someone else time you doing the following: Rise to a full stand and return to a complete sitting position.

Repeat as many times as you are able in 30 seconds. If you are on your way up when time is up count that as one. Record your fall risk score in the appropriate box below. ☐ 8 or less times = High Risk ☐ 9-12 times = Moderate Risk ☐ 13 or more times = Low Risk Based upon your risk level, take the following steps to reduce your risk of falling: High Risk – Consult your doctor and physical therapist for advice and instruction. Do the exercises on the right only if you feel safe doing them on your own.

Moderate Risk – Do the exercises on the right. Seek assistance from your doctor or physical therapist if you have difficulty doing the exercises on your own.

Low Risk – Do the exercises on the right to keep your risk of falls low.

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26 | GENERATIONS • Spring 2017

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Sit to Stand

S

it in a straight back chair with your feet shoulder width apart. Count to four as you slowly rise up to a standing position. (If this is too difficult, start by using your hands for support. As your strength improves, you may reduce to one hand assist, then no hands as shown in the picture.)

Pause. Slowly lower yourself toward the chair as you bend

Side Leg Raise

your knees to the count of four.

Repeat 10 times. Rest for one minute. Complete a second set of 10. If this is too difficult, start at a lower number and build up to 10. *Note: If you can’t sit all the way down, or if you feel pain or discomfort, place a cushion on the chair or squat down only 4-6 inches.

S

tand behind a sturdy chair with feet slightly apart and toes facing forward.

Keep your legs straight. Place both hands on the back of the chair for support.

Slowly lift your left leg out to the side as you count to four.

Keep your leg straight and toes forward. (Only a small amount of movement is necessary).

Pause. Then slowly lower your left foot back to the ground to the count of four.

Repeat 10 times with the left leg and 10 times with the right leg. Rest for 1 minute. Complete a second set of 10 repetitions with each leg. *Note: As you become stronger, you can increase the difficulty of this exercise by holding onto the chair with only one hand. Progress to one finger support as you are able.

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Aluminum & Tin Cans, Corrugated Cardboard, Glass Bottles & Jars, Paper /Boxboard, Plastics #1-2 & #3-6.

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popedouglasrecycle.com Spring 2017 • GENERATIONS | 27

The worst exercises for older adults Stay safe and stay in shape

By Lori Mork

Generations editor

As we get older, our bodies age and leave us with limitations and a wide range of abilities.

For those older than 60, there are several exercises present more risk than benefit, according to the Silver Sneakers website. Here is their list of the seven worst exercises for older adults:

These exercises can create new problems LEG PRESS. When doing leg presses, you straighten your legs by pushing with your feet against a weighted platform. A human’s lumbar spine has a naturally arched shape and needs to keep that shape when lifting.

A leg press causes your lower back to flatten when you bend your legs, then returns to its natural arch when your legs are straightened. If you’re using a heavy weight, this can cause damage to spinal discs.

CRUNCH. Crunches cause the same problems as leg presses as you flatten your lower back against the floor while you raise your head and shoulders to squeeze your abdominal muscles. It returns to an arch when you lower yourself.

Despite only using a fraction of your body’s weight, the exercise usually requires lots of repetitions and can cause injury.

RUNNING. Unless you’ve been running for years, if you are 65 or older, this isn’t the time to begin. Running seems like a great way to get is shape, but for older bodies, which are usually heavier as well, running can cause serious damage.

The average person take more than 2,000 strides for every mile. Each one of those strides has you landing on your feet with a force that’s approximately three to four times your body weight.

These exercises can make existing problems worse UPRIGHT ROW. Middle-aged people and older normally sit too much, mostly leaning over a desk or electronic device. This position creates tight muscles in their chests and upper back while creating weak neck and middle back muscles.

When you do the upright row, it pulls a weight vertically over those tight upper back muscles and causes them to become even tighter.

CHEST PRESS. As in the upright row, the chest press requires you to squeeze chest muscles that are already too tight, especially in older people.

Doing this exercise with free weights is worse than using the chest press machine. If you do use the chest press machine, always use light weights and move slowly and smoothly.

These exercises that are difficult to do correctly OVERHEAD PRESS. Only do this exercise if you can push two dumbbells straight above your shoulders without bending backward.

If you cannot align your arms with your torso and legs, it can make the exercise tough on shoulders and possibly strain the muscles and connective tissues.

28 | GENERATIONS • Spring 2017

DEADLIFT. A deadlift requires lifting a heavy weight straight off the floor, beginning with your body bent forward at the hips, then straighten as you pull the weight from the floor. It requires a lot of strength in the hip and torso muscles to keep the lower back in safe position. If done incorrectly, there is risk of a disc injury.

Exercises that you should do instead WALKING. This is one of the most important exercises that older adults can do. Walking gives you everything you want from an exercise: getting you off your chair, it’s a natural movement that also encourages good posture, gives continuous work to muscles and connective tissues and burns calories.

Walking on a treadmill isn’t the same as walking outdoors since the motorized treadmill does a large amount of the

work for you and keeps you from getting outside.

SQUATS. Walking won’t do much to increase lower body strength unless you walk hills.

Squats will help with that. The simple exercise has you pushing your hips back like you’re planning to sit in a chair, then straightening your hips and knees when return to a stand.

PUSHUPS. Pushups work the same muscles as the chest press, as well as stretching them and training core muscles that will help to stabilize your torso and protect your lower back.

You can make this exercise easier if you elevate your hands by doing pushups from a box, a bench, a step, a kitchen counter or even a wall.

ROWS/LAT PULLDOWNS. These exercises use the muscles in your upper and middle back as you pull a bar to your chest.

Information from www.silversneakers.com

DID YOU KNOW? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, regular physical activity is one of the most important things older adults can do to promote their long-term health. The CDC recommends that men and women age 65 or older who are generally fit and have no limiting health conditions need at least two hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, each week. In addition, such people should perform strength-training activities that work all major muscle groups at least two days per week.

While many fit older men and women with no preexisting health conditions are capable of these activities, those able to push themselves a little further can opt for 75 minutes per week of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity, such as jogging or running, combined with same strength-training regimen. A combination of moderate- and vigorous-intensity aerobic activity couple with strength training may also provide adequate physical activity for aging men and women. Before beginning a new exercise regimen, men and women should consult with their physicians to discuss any limitations they may have and how to manage those risks while still being physically active.

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Spring 2017 • GENERATIONS | 29

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HEART HEALTH

The good and the bad

Diet and weight play key roles in heart disease

By Lori Mork Generations editor

The Heart Foundation has reported that heart disease, including diseases of the heart and cardiovascular system, as well as stroke, is the number one cause of death in the United States and affects both men and women. Many factors contribute to heart disease, including diet and weight.

Filling your diet with a variety of foods is crucial in maintaining a strong and healthy heart and cardiovascular system.

It’s not necessary to completely cut out any foods, but moderation allows you to have a little of everything.

Here are some foods that you are encouraged to add to your client, and other you may want to avoid:

GOOD

Tree nuts. Nuts from trees contain unsaturated fats that can help lower LDL cholesterol, which is bad, and help raise your HDL levels, which is good. Nuts also provide a good source of protein and other nutrients.

Whole grains. Containing complex carbohydrates, whole grains provide fiber, energy and protein. The fiber can

help remove cholesterol from your blood to help lower your LDL. Raisins. Filled with antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation, which is often linked to heart disease. Another good source of antioxidants is fresh produce.

Beans. This legume and others contain cholesterol lowering soluble fiber and folate and may reduce cholesterol levels by approximately six to 10 percent when consumed regularly. They can also be substituted for meats as an excellent source of protein, but without the high saturated fat content.

Yogurt. Japanese researchers found that the good bacteria in yogurt may protect against gum disease and boost immunity. Gum disease that isn’t treated can elevate your risk for heart disease.

Fatty fish. Halibut, herring and salmon all contain heart-healty omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 can also be found in some soy products, flaxseed and walnuts.

POOR

and calories, so they should be limited to around 10 percent or less of your diet.

Dairy. Saturated fats that clog arteries can be found in dairy products, especially the full-fat varieties, so it’s best to go for the low-fat options when possible.

Fried foods. These foods have more saturated and trans fats and have little nutritional value. French fries, which are carbohydrates that have been fried and salted, are particularly bad.

Salty foods. Speaking of salt, highsodium diets are linked to hypertension, which is major factor in heart disease, so leave the salt shaker alone. Try flavoring your foods with herbs instead.

Added sugar. Sugar can often be found in foods you wouldn’t suspect, and many people unknowingly consume too much by drinking sugar-sweetened beverages and ready-to-eat cereals. It can increase blood pressure and triglyceride levels.

Processed meats. In particular, sausage has a high level of saturated fat in its content, a contributor to heart disease.

Red meats. Red meats have serious amounts of cholesterol, saturated fats

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30 | GENERATIONS • Spring 2017

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Spring 2017 • GENERATIONS | 31

Addicted to technology?

Studies show Baby Boomers are embracing the digital age

By Lori Mork

Generations editor

The study showed that people 50 and older are 27 percent more likely to research travel destinations online or head to hobby websites such as Pinterest.

And, here’s another interesting note. While the majority of the younger generation complain about being tied to their phones, 82 percent of Boomers describe their phones as freedom.

Today’s technology can actually lead to more independent living for seniors. Here are just a few ways: TECHNOLOGY Page 33

DID YOU KNOW?

Baby Boomer Matti Makkonen of Finland helped pioneer mobile phone SMS? Born in 1952, Makkonen first pitched the idea for texting in 1984, but the first SMS message wasn’t sent until 1992. It was originally created for engineers in the technology sector to communicate with one another regarding service calls and outages.

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From laptops to Smartphones, online banking to shopping, Baby Boomers – those people in their 50s or 60s – are not afraid to take on technology.

According to a March 2016 Pew Research Center report, approximately 83 percent of young Boomers (ages 51-59) are online and 76 percent of older Boomers (ages 60-69) also use the internet.

In fact, the Boomer generation has its own website: Silversurfers – a lifestyle and news website for those 50 and older – and actually represent the fastest growing demographic among social network sites.

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TECHNOLOGY From page 32

Fitness Trackers. With many Boomers at the age where health is becoming a primary concern, fitness trackers can help seniors stay in shape by creating a daily goal of steps as well as monitoring sleep patterns and heart rate.

Aggregator App. With this online app, seniors can set it up to display information that they are most interested in.

The app will then pull news stories from all over the internet and combine them in one spot to read.

GPS shoe soles. For those caring for an older parent or family member who may get lost or wander off, GPS SmartSole give them the ability to know precisely where that family member is located. It can also be helpful for Boomers who need to keep track of their grandchildren.

IPad or smart tablet. Instead of a full computer, tablets are portable and easy to use with their touchscreens. One article on gadgets and services for Baby Boomers described it as “this generation’s must-have digital coffee table book.”

Alexa (Amazon Echo). In the same way that Siri works for Apple iPhones, iPads and iPod touch devices as a voice-activated assistant, Amazon Echo can control various things in your home. You can find out the weather, play a song or even

adjust your thermostat if it is a “smart” device.

The voice activation makes this an excellent device for seniors.

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Protecting yourself online Practice safe habits to lessen chance of scams

ONLINE SAFETY SITES

Here are a few informational sites for online safety:

More than three out of every five seniors have been the target or victim of an online scam, according to a 2016 Home Instead, Inc. survey. Practicing safe online habits can help lessen your chances of being the target or victim of online scams.

Consider these tips from www. protectseniors.com for your cyber safety:

Create strong passwords. Half of seniors do not use the password feature on at least one of their internet-enabled devices, leaving it open to whomever may pick it up, according to research conducted by Home Instead, Inc. Lock all of your devices including computer, tablet and smartphone with secure passwords.

That will keep prying eyes out and add a line of defense in case your devices are lost or stolen. A strong password is at least 12 characters long. Strong password tips include the use a mix of letters, numbers and symbols, and try not to include personal information.

Secure access to accounts. Since passwords can be stolen, adding two-step authentication to accounts provides a second layer of protection. Many online services, including apps and websites, offer free options that could help you protect your information and ensure it’s actually you trying to access your account – not just someone with your password.

Think before you act. Emails

and communication that create a sense of urgency, such as a problem with your bank account or taxes, is likely a scam.

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Consider reaching out directly to the company by phone to determine if the email is legitimate or not.

When in doubt, throw it out.

Clicking on links in emails is often how scammers get access to personal information. If an email looks unusual, even if you know the person who sent it, it’s best to delete it. Remember that scammers can commandeer friends’ email addresses and send you messages posing as them. Turn on spam filters for your email account to help filter suspicious messages.

Share with care. Be aware of what you share publically on social media sites like Facebook. Adjust your privacy settings to limit who can see your information. Avoid sharing your location.

Use security software. Install security software on your devices from a reliable source and keep it updated. It is best to run the anti-virus and anti-spyware software regularly. Be wary of security updates from pop-up ads or emails. They may actually be malware that could infect your computer.

Adjust your browser safety settings. You likely search for news,

information and products by using an internet browser such as Firefox, Google Chrome, Internet Explorer and Safari.

Adjust your settings in each of those browsers to set your options for optimum security. Those menus can often be found

www.protectseniorsonline.com www.connectsafely.org/seniors www.dhs.gov/cyber-safety https://www.senioradvisor.com

in the upper right corner of your browser.

Consider clearing your browsing history at the end of your session so you don’t leave a trail of sensitive data.

Use the default firewall security protection. Your operating system (OS)

likely has default firewall settings that will protect your computer without needing adjustment. If your antivirus software includes additional firewall protection that you can adjust separately, consider contacting a computer professional for assistance to ensure you’re safely protected without over-blocking sites and programs you use regularly.

Log out. Remember to log out of apps and websites when you are done using them. Leaving them open on your computer screen could make you vulnerable to security and privacy risks.

Consider support. If you live alone or spend a lot of time by yourself, consider a trusted source to serve as a second set of eyes and ears. Adult family members and grandchildren who are computer savvy may be willing to help.

Education is the best form of protection. Learn more about the ways

that hackers can open the door to your lives.

HOW TO SET UP A

Pinterest account

Social networking site brings a world of ideas to your fingertips Are you interested in finding a new hobby or new ideas for the hobbies you currently have? Pinterest is a social network that allows people to share ideas visually by pinning ideas to boards and viewing other users pins and boards.

It’s a wonderful way to browse anywhere on the go. You can view everything from health, arts and crafts, recipes, destination ideas, projects of all kinds, gardening and much more.

Interested in trying it out?

Just follow these short easy steps.

Download the Pinterest app from the app store on your

phone or tablet, or go to www. pinterest.com on your computer.

You can choose to sign up with your email address or Facebook account.

Type in your Pinterest profile information in the provided fields.

Click sign up.

Next, it’s time to set up your profile if you desire. Click on the Profile button in the upper right corner and then the hexagon-shaped gear in the upper left corner. You can add more information to your profile or upload a photo.

By Melanie Danner Contributing writer

Then you will have the option to start following different categories, users or boards.

It’s time to create your first board. This is where you can add pins of a similar interest.

For example, I have a board called Recipes – Salads. This is where I add all the pins for salad recipes I would like to try. Another board I have is Garden – Vegetable. I pin all the tips and ideas for my vegetable garden here. My husband and I just tried a great one for raspberry trellises and are very excited to see how this will help our raspberries bushes get even

sun and tie up the branches evenly.

Create a board via the mobile app. Select a pin by holding the pin with your finger.

Choose the icon representing a pincushion.

On the bottom of your screen select create a board.

Name the board with a category that interests you.

Now your pin is added to your board.

You can find your saved pins under your profile button in the bottom right corner.

Happy pinning and say hello to new ideas and hobbies!

Great Gift Ideas for any occasion!

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Spring 2017 • GENERATIONS | 35

Volunteering is rewarding work Are you looking forward to your retirement but are worried about having too much free time on your hands? Maybe you could invest your time in a cause close to your heart; give a few hours a week to an organization or help someone in trouble, for example. Volunteering is a way to keep inertia and depression at bay when your professional work life comes to an end. And the benefits of volunteering are many, both for you and for those with whom you interact. Here are just a few: •Volunteering is rewarding. Being a volunteer lets you feel useful and appreciated. It improves your quality of life and allows you to put your experience and expertise at the service of your community.

•Volunteering lets you develop as a person. It gives you the opportunity to expand your horizons, develop new skills, gain more knowledge, widen your social network, and cultivate a strong sense of belonging in your community.

•Volunteering gives you the opportunity to help people while doing

something you love. For example, if you love to travel, you could participate in an overseas international development project.

•Volunteering is good for your health.

In addition to helping you to stay active, volunteering helps you avoid feelings of isolation, and it also reduces stress,

anxiety, and symptoms of depression.

Whether you volunteer several times a week or just an occasional day here and there, volunteering is a great motivator and gives you a reason to get out of bed in the morning. Best of all, it can really give meaning to your life.

With mentoring, everyone’s a winner Seasoned workers and professionals have a lifetime of experience and knowledge that has great value, and they know the time has come to transfer it to another generation. Young adults, newly arrived on the job

market, have up-to-date education and job skills, but they might lack long-term strategies to attain their goals.

For both groups, there is a beneficial scenario that can bring them both just what they need: mentoring.

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For mentors, this kind of exchange is an opportunity to transfer their professional legacy, accumulated over many years, to the next generation. It can be a source of fulfillment and stimulation during their last few years in the job market, all while allowing them to see things from a more youthful point of view.

For mentorees, there is the advantage of a privileged relationship with someone who has already gone down that road. Their mentors are advisors who possess valuable networks of contacts and who can help them set professional priorities. Mentors can also help younger professionals avoid the traps and pitfalls that could hinder their rise to success or harm their work/ family balance.

Some say the perfect balance of experience, wisdom, and dynamism is acquired after the age of 50, although proven success in one’s field could make a good mentor of an adult of any age. Mentoring can take diverse forms; it could involve exchanging e-mails with a student who would like to join the same profession, giving specific help to a person during a period of transition, or cultivating a long-lasting relationship with someone through regular mentoring sessions or informal meetings.

Are you cut out to be a mentor? You might just have what it takes to be a role model for a young adult who wants to know how to get where you are.

10

facts about Baby Boomers Boomers make up the largest generation of Americans in history

At approximately 77 million people, Baby Boomers the largest generation in the country and the most talked about.

Born between 1946 and 1964, this generation is now between the ages of 51 and 70.

Here are 10 facts we bet you didn’t know about baby boomers:

1

They’re online – and in great numbers.

According to a Google study, 78 percent of Boomers are online. A full one-third of all boomers online describe themselves as “heavy internet users.”

live in the U.S. but were born in another country.

4

They’re thrifty. While not cheap, Boomers don’t believe in spending money needlessly. A total of 79 percent of believe that store brands are an excellent option instead of name brands.

lege education. In the top ten states where boomers have some college experience, AARP reports the percentages are all over 50 percent.

8

The past three presidents are/were Boomers. Barack Obama was born in 1963; George W. Bush was born in 1946; and Bill Clinton was born in 1946.

5

9

They’re turning 65. Starting in 2011, Boomers began to hit the traditional retirement age of 65. According to AARP, Boomers will turn 65 at a rate of 10,000 a day over the next 18 years.

6

10

They’re increasingly foreign born.

According to a 2014 U.S. Census report, approximately 10 million boomers

7

2 3

They’re prone to Hepatitis C. According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Boomers are five times more likely to be infected with Hepatitis C. Since Hep C can sometimes take years to exhibit symptoms, Boomers are encouraged to get a blood test.

More boomers live in Maine than any other state. Boomers comprise 36.8 percent of Maine’s total population.

They’re highly educated. At 69.6 percent, Colorado has the highest percent of boomers who have at least some col-

www.senioradvisor.com

They’re supporting their adult children. A recent survey from the National Endowment for Financial Education found that 59 percent of boomer parents provide financial support for adult children aged 18 to 39.

They’re not the stereotypical “senior citizens.” Many boomers are still quite active and energetic. For instance, Jerry Seinfeld (born in 1954), Stevie Nicks (born in 1948) and George Clooney (born in 1961) are all boomers.

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ECUMEN BETHANY COMMUNITY

Celebrating 100 years Creating a home for older adults wherever they choose to live The Ecumen Bethany Community has a rich history of providing care, dating back to when it opened in 1917.

It’s gone through many exciting changes through the years – building additions, technological advancements, expanded services and new approaches.

But some things haven’t changed – its commitment to

the community and its passion for helping the elderly and those with medical needs.

Carol Kvidt, a former executive director of Ecumen Bethany, who was later promoted to regional director of operations, has seen a lot of changes in the past decade alone.

“The biggest one is the transformation of services we provide,” she said. “We’ve gone

JUNE CELEBRATION

FRIDAY, JUNE 16 7:30 a.m., Hosting the Chamber’s Wake Up Alexandria event 1:30 p.m., Styles through the ages (Vintage Style Show) SATURDAY, JUNE 17 1-4 p.m., Bethany’s Birthday Bash Carnival and fun for the entire family: Games, bounce house, dunk tank, pulled pork lunch, cotton candy, Live music by the Red Letter Band and more.

SUNDAY, JUNE 18 2 p.m., Worship service with special music by the Knudson Family, birthday cake to follow worship.

38 | GENERATIONS • Spring 2017

By Al Edenloff

Echo Press news editor

from a big nursing home to a smaller nursing home with a short-term rehab center.”

DESCRIBING ECUMEN BETHANY

After Kvitdt became administrator, she introduced a concept of culture change and resident center care, which greatly impacted Ecumen Bethany’s philosophy and its way of empowering its residents.

Changes included: • Working toward a more homelike environment free of noise such as overhead pages and audio safety alarms.

• Allowing nursing home residents to sleep until they wake up naturally.

• Holding household meetings, discussing life events and decisions.

The old stereotype of nursing homes serving as a “last stop” for the elderly is no longer true.

These days, between 350 to 400 people of varying ages are helped by Ecumen Bethany

every year. The facility is bustling with life and activity.

“That’s probably the most exciting piece of it,” Kvidt said, “helping all those people who go through our door for shortterm care, get better and then return home.”

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Ecumen Bethany’s impact isn’t restricted to the confines of its campus. It also plays a key role in the community.

Many staff members volunteer in the community, serving on different boards, committees and church groups and are involved in community outreach.

“We also invite the community into our walls,” said Kvidt.

“We have an annual community church service on our lawn and hold events that get folks from the community onto our campus. We also partner with Lincoln Elementary School [located just across the street] and have the kids come over for activities.”

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