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It’s A Grand Life

January 2018

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From Me To You...

Welcome! to the January edition of It’s A Grand Life magazine.

Happy New Year! You had to know it was coming, an editorial about resolutions. It is the time of year after all.

My resolutions are probably much the same as many of yours. In the past I have resolved to eat less and move more. That one is not fun, but it works... over the last year I have lost over 20lbs following that mindset. I fell off the proverbial wagon many times and I did not enjoy most of it, but there is a great satisfaction once the pounds finally start to disappear. I really thought I was doing well in my goal until I renewed my driver’s license recently and discovered that I am still 20lbs heavier than I was when we moved here 13 years ago. Rats.

Another resolution I tried in the past was to eat less chocolate. That was a non starter. I really don’t even know why I suggested it in the first place.

A big one for me was to stop procrastinating.

I am living in the Land of Last Minute Tasks and I am their queen. Putting things off until I have no choice but to finish them is my raison d’etre - or reason to be if you prefer English.

There are always so many other things I would rather do than whatever it is that I have to do.

Part of my problem is the lack of focus that has seemed to follow... Squirrel!!!

See?

On to this year.

I get to meet many people through this job and I love talking to them and hearing their stories. Some of the people are young and some not so young. From the last group the thing I hear most often is that they wish they had taken better care of their teeth. Sure there is a smattering of regret over the one that got away and the life choices made in error. But mostly it is the teeth.

I am guilty of not going to the dentist on a regular basis. I have had so many fillings and crowns that the last time I complained to my dentist about pain in a tooth he actually said, “That is not your tooth it is a crown, so I don’t think it can be hurting.” Ah. As a parent I am vigilant about the 6 month check ups and cleanings for my kids. I march my children in there telling them it is not an option and that they will thank me one day.

Meanwhile the nagging guilt that I am not following my own advice is thrumming away in the back of my mind. “I am so busy” I tell myself, or “I will make an appointment next time I take the kids.” I have an excuse for every point. But those people I spoke to are right. If I lose my teeth I cant eat chocolate.

Hold on, I have a great point there. Excuse me I have to make a phone call...

Catherine Uretsky Editor, It’s A Grand Life Magazine info@estrellapublishing.com 623.594.9283

Where was I? Ah yes procrastination... I think the only thing I do on time is meet my deadline, producing these magazines every month. I am actually quite proud of my record for hitting my print deadlines for the last almost decade. I do have to admit that if there was not a team of people at the printer waiting for me, that would probably not be achievable.

However I do hate to disappoint others. So thank you Gene for keeping me accountable.

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Published by Estrella Publishing LLC, PO Box 6962, Goodyear AZ 85338. Additional copies and article reproductions can be obtained for a fee by contacting info@EstrellaPublishing.com Catherine Uretsky, Publisher and Editor 623.594.9283 info@EstrellaPublishing.com Al Uretsky, Publisher and Sales Executive 623.594.9283 info@EstrellaPublishing.com

Anne Yost (623) 692-9563 Joe Wristen (480) 369-5804 Full Time REALTORS® and Residents

Home Warranty with a Sale or Purchase. www.yostrealtyteam.com

All contents © 2010-present day Estrella Publishing LLC. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in any form, in whole or part, without written permission from Estrella Publishing LLC is prohibited. Estrella Publishing accepts freelance contributions, there is no guarantee that materials will be used or returned. Estrella Publishing is not responsible for the views of contributing writers and assumes no responsibility for errors appearing within.

Opinions expressed are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the Publisher or Advertisers. Estrella Publishing reserves the right to restrict all advertisement to their proper classification and to edit or reject any copy at its sole discretion.

Neither this publication nor Estrella Publishing is an agent of or in any way affiliated with the associated Developer nor Homeowners Association, or any of their respective affiliates. This publication has not been approved by, sponsored by, or endorsed by the associated Developer nor Homeowners Association in any way.

Catherine Uretsky Publisher & Editor

It’s A Grand Life

Al Uretsky Publisher & Sales Exec

January 2018

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January 2018

Tips to get in front of the pet hair in your home From their loyal ways to their silly antics, pets bring so much joy to homes. While you wouldn’t trade any of the cuddles and welcome-home slobbers, one thing most pet owners don’t find quite as lovable is all the pet hair!

When you live with a furry friend, it’s inevitable that there will be pet hair everywhere-hiding under tables, collecting in corners and clinging to clothes and furniture. Cleaning up after it all can be hard work-but the good news is that there are some ways to keep it under control. With a few simple steps, you can keep your home clean and free from pet hair (at least until that next shake).

1) Embrace your inner groomer. The best way to deal with pet hair in your home is to stop it even before it starts. Regularly grooming your pet will help control pet hair and shedding. Get into the habit of brushing your pet each day. Chances are, they’ll enjoy the extra attention, and you’ll be able to collect and dispose of their hair before it gets everywhere else. If your pet needs extra care, take them to a groomer every couple of months to really control the undercoat or longer hair.

2) Use a vacuum designed to pick up pet hair. After you’ve used a conventional vacuum that fails to pick up your dog or cat’s hair a couple of times, it’s probably safe to say that you’ve had enough. Get your hands on a vacuum built for the job, like the BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser Upright Pet Vacuum, which is engineered specifically for homes with pets. It combines the power of an upright vacuum with the cleaning convenience of a lightweight, portable canister, so you can clean tight corners, stairs and furniture easily. It also has a tangle-free brush roll, so you don’t have to worry about hair wrapping around it. When you’re done, you can empty the canister without touching the hair inside.

Furry Friends

Carpet and rugs are a magnet for pet hair-so use them to your advantage! Place throw rugs in areas your cat or dog frequents and they can collect the lion’s share of the shedding before the hair infiltrates every nook and cranny in the rest of your home.

Then you can easily vacuum those rugs!

4) Give your pet a designated hang-out spot. While your favorite four-legged companion is hanging out around the house, offer them an extra comfy spot or two on the floor with large throw pillows or a pet bed so they have their own space. They’ll end up spending much of their time in these cozy spots and it will help you out by making the area you need to clean smaller.

5) Washable slipcover. There’s no reason to cut out couch cuddles with your fluffy friend. A washable slipcover for your furniture can work wonders to protect furniture from hair and messes. And, it doesn’t have to be the unsightly plastic covers people used to have -contemporary slipcovers are made of soft cloth, are easy to remove and look great. Most you can even throw in your washing machine to easily to remove the hair. In between washings, using vacuum attachments will help keep your couch hair free.

After trying out these tricks, the only evidence that there’s a pet in your home will be from the lovable, furry greeting they give you when you walk in the door!

3) Strategically place throw rugs around the house.

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January 2018

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Peace On Earth Change or Tradition?

I love tradition when it is something I want to hold onto. I become annoyed with tradition when I feel it sets unnecessary limits. Do you have these mixed reactions?

New traditions have been introduced in our country through the wonderful diversity of people. We see this especially in foods. Consider Russian tea cakes, the Greek Baklava, the Latino tamales, and Swedish meatballs. These are great additions! Even the preparation for turkey is changing. Have you tried it deep fried?

One Christmas, our son introduced sticky buns and Orange Julius, recipes he learned in Home Ec. class, to our Christmas morning. The next year, it was assumed by our children that we would continue this ‘tradition.’ What was a change for us, was instantly tradition for them. And, oh, the grief, the year our then married daughter came home, and I had not made party mix for New Year’s Eve! There is nothing like marriage to bring about new traditions/changes as two families merge. We had a tradition of alternating holidays between our parents’ homes. You would have thought it was a crisis the year we decided to stay home and establish our own traditions. We did invite our parents to come to our home! However, to them, it was unwelcome change.

Consider the variety of expressions in our houses

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of worship. There are differences in music, liturgy, prayers, and the sharing of God’s Word. God’s Word doesn’t change, yet we celebrate it in many different ways. While these changes challenge those who like it “the way it was,” others, who didn’t connect before, now connect. It isn’t necessary for every church to be the same. The variety exists so everyone can find the place that resonates with their style of worship.

Menu changes, clothing styles, home architecture, school calendars, church style, can all have positive or negative effects. The catch is to evaluate, with an open mind, what is really happening. Some changes have, thankfully, reversed back. Others have been adopted with gratitude.

Perhaps what is more important is to evaluate change by holding it up to our values. Look at expressions of our freedom of speech as an example. Do we maintain the values of curtesy and respect when we speak or post in social media?

The world offers both tradition and change. It is our job to discern which to embrace in each circumstance. “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”

(Romans 12:2) Submitted by Valerie Fairchild, pastor of Spirit Song church in Vistancia

January 2018

Positivity Make A Positive Difference in our Community With a new year upon us and last year in the past, we are all looking towards what the next year will bring. As individuals, and as a group, we have the power to continue to change our community for the better and there is no time like the present to make positive changes.

Here are some ways we all can make a positive difference in our community this year.

Be Positive. Stay Positive.

What we contribute is every bit as important as what we say and how we act. The way we interact inside our community affects our contributions and our attitude. The way we welcome new people into our community and encourage participation will impact their involvement and contributions. Everything makes a difference and we should resolve to make it a positive difference.

Deal with Conflicts Appropriately We want to stay positive but it’s not realistic to believe everyone will agree on everything all the time.

We need to speak our minds, but it should be done so appropriately. Some conversations are appropriate on public platforms, some are not - particularly those that involve personal differences or heated emotions. How we handle our differences and resolve conflicts has a significant impact on our community. Consider the following questions: Is my message helpful to our community?

Is this a personal message or an issue that should be discussed in private?

If someone outside our community reads this now, or a year from now, what will they think?

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A little bit of thought can go a long way. We can make a positive difference in our community by resolving to be mindful of how we communicate.

Set the Example How we act within our community sets a standard that others will follow. If we set a positive example and do the right things as members we will have a positive impact on the community. Be the change you want to see in our community and others will follow your example. Here are some simple ways to set a positive example: Always: Be nice Be helpful Contribute selflessly Speak from the heart Remember: We all live here Not everyone will always agree with you Your answers might not work for everyone A community does what is best for the community, not individuals Your contributions always matter Have a very happy new year. Be kind to each other and celebrate your beautiful community.

Submitted By Larry Cash, of Estrella Mountain Pest Control

January 2018

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Tradition

The more things change the more things stay the same. A phrase used thousands of times since it was coined in the 1800s.

This was followed by its more modern variation used by adults of many generations, “What’s wrong with kids these days?”

I’m sure there were a few adults who wondered what might be wrong with me during my teenage years. I listened to eee-vil heavy metal music, played that eee-vil Dungeons & Dragons game, and stayed out until the sun came up doing something eee-vil, I’m sure.

I added “evil” as a description because many thought some types of music, games, and other pop culture fads were bad. Was my behavior wrong or was I normal for the time?

Normal is a relative term. A long time ago, men wore white, powdered wigs. That was normal. Sixty years ago, gentlemen wore hats and always tipped their hat to a lady. That was normal. Today, people sit together manipulating their smartphones instead of talking to each other. That seems…normal? Some believe it is while others think it’s wrong. I think it’s weird, but not eee-vil.

Another question to ask: Is it considered normal or traditional? Normal could change as society does, but everyone wants a normal body temperature.

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Traditional implies steadfastness. Something passed between generations, even though some traditions have disappeared, such as families gathered around the radio to listen to shows. So, would be it considered normal or tradition when someone shouts, “Hey! Watch this!” before doing something incredibly unwise?

In my daily routine, I often have to decide whether or not to change something that many consider normal or traditional. Sometimes normal and traditional will need to change with the times.

Sometimes it’s something that has become obsolete. The floppy disc is now the icon for saving a computer file. Fax machines are still around and used.

Breaking a tradition or changing a norm is done with the intention of making an improvement. My new hair cut changed my appearance. Was it an improvement? I hope so. Otherwise, I might opt for a powdered wig.

We just finished the holiday season. Did you stay traditional or change things up? All that matters is that you enjoyed the holiday season. I will stay traditional by wishing you a wonderful New Year!

John Safin, West Valley Resident

January 2018

Tech Health Do you think you could live without your mobile phone? What about the navigation and backup camera in your car? Could you drive as well without them?

use of embedded wearables and machine learning helps physicians find answers for patients at risk of cardiac arrhythmias to better manage a range of patient populations.

Our obsession with technology and the information it delivers daily has progressed beyond the point of external mobile phones and smartwatches to implanted heart monitors and Fitbits. At one time, consumers were too paranoid to enter their Social Security or credit card number online, but now, they are willing to implant sensors and other wearable technologies into their bodies. In turn, companies are leveraging these devices to collect as much data about their potential customers as possible.

Outside of healthcare, the second biggest use for embedded wearables is physical security. Several companies have started utilizing biochip implants to replace card keys and manual entry codes for employees. For example, Three Square Market offered employees implanted chips in July to make purchases in their cafeteria and break rooms, open doors, log in to computers and use the copy machine. Approximately 50 employees underwent the minimally invasive procedure, many of whom believe the chip is worth any potential discomfort, as it helps to streamline their daily processes. Though this may seem like a massive invasion of privacy for many, for others, biochip implants present a way to make life easier.

The latest fashion: Wearing data Think about it: You’re carrying (and generating) large amounts of data everywhere you go with wearable and implanted technologies. This means 24/7 data collection for the companies that manufacture those devices, which in turn helps them create a 360-degree view of the patients, athletes or customers they serve with the appropriate products, services and marketing campaigns.

According to research by Talend, a cloud and big data integration software company, 33 percent of consumers already own wearables like the Apple Watch or smart clothing, and another 30 percent are expected to make a purchase within the next three years. That’s a lot of new sources of data for companies to utilize.

How we’re using wearables Topping the list of today’s most common consumeruse cases for embedded wearables is healthcare (57 percent), privacy (28 percent) and convenience (20 percent), all contributing to the rapid dissemination and uptake of these devices.

Healthcare is the leading use for implanted technologies, with the introduction of advancedtracking devices such as Medtronic’s FDA-approved Reveal LINQ Insertable Cardiac Monitor with TruRhythm Detection, introduced in March of this year, which is designed to accurately identify abnormal heartbeats. This life-saving device is implanted just beneath the skin and communicates wirelessly with the patient’s bedside monitor, which uploads device data to the Medtronic CareLink network. Once the data is loaded, algorithms can be run to determine if the patient is experiencing slower than average heart rate, which can deprive the brain and other organs from getting enough oxygen. This advanced It’s A Grand Life

Establishing trust: Should you be worried about privacy of information?

While the results of Talend’s survey seem to point to the fact that consumers are getting more digitally comfortable, with greater trust from consumers comes greater responsibility for companies to understand the many ways they need to protect customer data.

According to Talend’s survey, the most likely scenario that would drive consumers to break up with a brand and take their business elsewhere is a breach of personal data. In fact, 78 percent of consumers want to be assured they have full visibility into what companies are doing with their data. But as implanted and wearable technology becomes increasingly common and technology improves, the trade-off between data privacy and convenience will only increase.

Consider a future of augmented reality where implanted contacts could allow you to visualize and interact with the world around you in practical ways, or a future with implanted audio wearables that translate languages in real time. Would that convenience and experience move you to adopt wearable technology even if it means relinquishing more of your personal information and privacy?

At what point of technology adoption do we all essentially become cyborgs, guided each day by the obvious and subliminal information being fed to us via embedded and external devices? The day of total automation may be here sooner than you think.

January 2018

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On Our Cover New Group Going Topless

The Grand Boomers just started a new group for their members called the Topless Club. No, not THAT type of topless, it refers to those of us who have convertibles and love to feel the wind in our hair and the sun on our face when we travel.

Your senses of sight, sound, smell and feel are all heightened when you ride with an open top so you feel more connected to the route you are traveling.

I bought my first car at age 17 and it was a convertible. Every car I have purchased since then has been a convertible, which is quite unusual considering that I am from Ohio which has plenty of cold, wet weather to go along with the sultry days of summer. I credit my Dad with this passion because when I was born in 1948, he brought me home from the hospital in a convertible. That was my first topless ride.

I had originally approached the Grand Boomers with the idea of starting a club so that convertible owners could have a scheduled activity to enjoy going topless. They agreed and we chose November 2 as our inaugural kick-off ride. We wanted to keep it simple so we selected a nice scenic location for lunch at a restaurant that was

about 50 miles away and would be an easy drive.

22 people had signed up for our first ride and everyone showed up with a full tank of gas and freshly washed cars. My husband and I were the lead car, and as we rounded a corner, I looked back to see an awesome line of convertibles strung out behind us. With old time rock & roll music blaring on the radio it felt like 1966 all over again and we didn’t have a care in the world. Considering we are in retirement now, we really do have a different type of freedom that young people do not yet enjoy.

The smiles on everyone’s faces testified to the fun we were having.

The restaurant had made personalized menus for us that read “Welcome Topless Club.” We had a delightful lunch looking out over a beautiful golf course with the mountains of Prescott National Forest in the background, and got the chance to relax and meet new people. The Topless Club committee consisted of me, my husband Steve and David Nedelman. Mark Lange was our esteemed photographer. We gave a brief presentation after which everyone was free to take advantage of local activities or just enjoy a nice sunny ride home.

Everyone agreed that our first Topless Club ride was a huge success and we plan on scheduling them once every month to new and interesting places (please contact the Grand Boomers – www. scgboomers.com - for more information.)

Submitted by Lorraine Jo Polinsky Clark

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January 2018

Living With Faith It was approximately twenty-five hundred years ago that a Prophet of Israel roamed the countryside preaching about the goodness of humanity and how it could be found in each of us. In fact he emphasized that the most enduring force known to man was the power of our ability to conquer the wrong doing we witness every day.

as plan for tomorrow. There is the custom of New Year’s resolutions – a wish list of things yet to be accomplished and with good intentions attached.

But it shouldn’t end there. The act of making a wish should be connected to the action necessary to see them completed. There is no shame in failing but rather in not making an honest attempt.

There are many ways we can accomplish what was suggested so long ago. For example: Supporting institutions that give others the ability to survive and even carry themselves with dignity. Every day we witness the poverty and misery of those less fortunate.

God does not expect us to succeed in everything we undertake, but is disappointed when we do not attempt to improve our lives. The special ingredient in any attempt at connection with God and receiving the salvation we all so desperately need is a thing called forgiveness. Forgiveness gives us the ability to heal from wounds that have been inflicted.

More importantly, forgiveness is a sign of positive self-esteem. We forgive, but never forget. For it is through forgiving that we remain a blessing and it is remembering that should help us refrain from repeating our mistakes.

It is not enough to acknowledge the problems. We are obligated, as partners with God, to ensure that the tear in our society is repaired. Age should not be a deterrent to reaching out to lend a helping hand. Rather it should encourage us to do more because we have been there and have seen the results of indifference. We are nothing without purpose and only when we lift a person who has fallen, can we with pride, declare who we are and truly comprehend the connection of Heaven and Earth.

This time of the year enables us to recollect as well

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May all of our New Year’s be fulfilling, and rewarding.

Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D. Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation National Chaplain, Jewish War Veterans, USA

January 2018

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January 2018

Science-based suggestions for self-confidence A recent study shows your perception of your own image has a profound effect on how you present yourself to the rest of the world.

Those findings could be empowering since even small changes to your self-care routine can significantly boost your self-confidence.

The study by researchers at the Stanford Graduate School of Business found those who believe in their own attractiveness view themselves as having higher social status. “The finding that your assessment of yourself shapes your view of yourself and others puts power into your hands,” the authors note.

Consider how these science-based suggestions may help you put your best foot forward when dealing with everything life throws your way. * Get moving. Regardless of your fitness goals, the fact is you’re likely to feel better physically, emotionally and mentally after you exercise. Research also shows it can improve your self-esteem. * Ramp up your smile. Scientists say our brains are zapped with an instant mood boost when we smile, and that boost is reinforced when others smile back.

Further, whiter teeth can have a direct effect on our social and professional interactions, and they’re now easy to achieve through consumer brands like Rembrandt’s 1 Week Whitening Kit that can achieve professional-level results at home within a week.

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Confidence

* Let your body language communicate self-respect.

Keeping your shoulders pulled back and your body straight and tall communicates confidence to your brain, studies show. Research found the most empowering stance is one in which your arms are held slightly away from your torso, your body is open and your head is up. * Optimize color in your clothing. The right shade may light up your entire face and have a surprising impact on your mood. “Choosing the color of your office, your clothes or your desktop should not be taken lightly colors do affect our moods and productivity,” states a recent article on Scienceofpeople.com. “When given the choice, picking a color that will work with you and not against you can only help.” * Wear scent strategically. Because our brains link certain smells to positive experiences, research suggests we may be able to ramp up our confidence with scents that remind us of happy times. That’s why aromatherapy can help alleviate anxiety, depression and sleeplessness, and improve quality of life for those with chronic health issues, confirms the Mayo Clinic.

Bottom line: When you’re taking care of yourself and projecting your best self, you’re far more likely to project the confidence you need to deal effectively with life.

“Confidence can make or break a lot of things,” advises Lecia Bushak on Medicaldaily.com. “In our extrovert-centric society, confidence can get you a job, a girlfriend, and the courage to say no to people or situations that are toxic to you. Confidence is knowing yourself and taking care of yourself, too.”

January 2018

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Decorators’ Corner

Disco may be dead, but the spirit of the 1970s is not.

In homes all across the country, people are adding their own splash of ‘70s style in updated, modern ways. Here are five current top decorating trends that have an unmistakable ‘70s flair.

* More macrame, please. From dip dyed wall hangings to simple plant hangers, macrame is coming back in a big way. Whether you purchase these items already made or you enroll in a class to make them yourself, macrame offers an easy way to add texture and an artistic touch to your home. * Groovy colors. The blazing orange walls of the ‘70s may not be back anytime soon, but homeowners are again using more dynamic colors to define the insides of their home. * A shagadelic rug. Yes, shag is more than an Austin Powers euphemism. It’s also a resurgent design trend. Homeowners frequently purchase these cozy rugs for children’s areas like nurseries and playrooms.

Whether sheepskin or conventional textiles, a shag rug is something you’ll go out of your way to walk across.

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* Wicker man ... and furniture. A staple in sun porches for generations, wicker furniture is making a big comeback this year, from headboards and chairs to mirror frames. Available in a wide array of colors and shades, wicker can be used to create the perfect centerpiece in your bedroom, living room or, yes, even your porch. * Green living ... literally. In the 1970s, people believed that there was no such thing as too many plants in their home. This affection for indoor greenery is back, and homeowners have revitalized confidence in their green thumbs. From large potted plants in the corner to hanging basket plants, green living is in and people are loving the opportunity to create an urban oasis of their own.

From fresh colors and plants to wicker and wool, the ‘70s are back this year, and this modernized trend is defining homes across the country. Now is the time to experiment, so swing down to your local paint or furniture store and find the perfect ‘70s accent that fits your style.

January 2018

Everyone has those days. You’re operating in a fog, or perhaps you spaced out on a family member’s name in the middle of dinner, or maybe you just find it hard to concentrate on work or hobbies. When these unwanted situations begin to come up more often, you may start to worry. The good news is there are simple things you can do to clear the cobwebs and regain your focus. Dr. Mike Dow, a psychotherapist and best-selling author, says “People understand pretty well that if they eat healthy, quit smoking and start exercising, they can improve their cardiovascular health,” Dow says. “But they don’t always connect the dots of living a healthy lifestyle to improving cognitive health.”

To help you reach your optimal brain health, Dow offers these everyday tips.

Give yourself a daily challenge Researchers have discovered that healthy brains need certain levels of reserves, and challenging them is one way to build those reserves.

“Think of your brain like a bank account,” Dow says.

“Every time you learn something new, or play a challenging game or read a book, it’s like depositing a dollar into that account. The more cash deposits you make, the more you have to spare.”

Feed your brain Like other parts of the body, the brain needs food

Brain Drain?

and nutrients, and the right food can go a long to support brain health. An antioxidant-rich including things like unsweetened tea, berries turmeric can protect the brain from damage comes from aging and oxidative stress.

way diet and that

Tend to your relationships As life and circumstances bring inevitable changes, the number of people we count as friends and loved ones can change over the years. It takes effort, but Dow says it’s important to try to maintain our relationships and be open to creating new ones, because they can have a profound effect on brain health. To meet new people, try simple things like inviting a neighbor over for dessert, joining a book club or volunteering for a nonprofit or cause that’s important to you.

Get enough sleep “Think of nighttime sleep as a wash-and-rinse cycle that clears away the ‘bad stuff’ that builds up during the day,” Dow says. “Brain fog and dementia-causing plaques are washed away by cerebrospinal fluid, and this process is more effective when you’re sleeping.”

Dow recommends practicing healthy sleep habits, such as striving for eight hours each night, being consistent with your bedtime routine and using melatonin instead of prescription and over-thecounter sleep aids to help you drift off.

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January 2018

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Life As A Caregiver Imagine if you yourself had a disease or condition that was terminal for which there was no cure.

And…you were of the age that hindered you from understanding or remembering what it was that was wrong with you. That is often the scenario for an Alzheimer’s patient.

In my mother’s case, which is not unlike many, she has other issues. Hers is chronic head pain. Not migraines, but headaches every single day of which not one doctor has been able to determine their cause. The head pain is what keeps her in bed most of the day. The head pain is what robs her of a busy and happy life. And it’s the head pain that causes her be to depressed. She has had head pain every day of her life since her mid-20’s. That is cause for depression.

Everyone gets depressed from time to time. But as it applied to me, there had always been something or someone to snap me out of it. Some special event to look forward to; some special person who did something nice and put a smile on my face….you know how it goes. But when a person suffers from chronic pain or Alzheimer’s or any other terminal disease, there isn’t much that can make them snap out of it because the disease or condition is with them constantly.

I have found that living ‘in the moment’ is what is important. The only thing Alzheimer’s patients HAVE is ‘in the moment’. So….it is important to find the things that make them happy in that moment.

Right now. This very minute. Instant gratification.

Some of the things that have worked for us are as follows: ~ Ice cream. Mom loves ice cream, so as an after dinner treat, I will give her some ice cream once in a while. The smile on her face says it all. She won’t remember she had it ten minutes later, but for that moment she is happy and enjoying every mouthful. ~ Music. Mom loved music and always went around the house singing. So frequently I will play music on the cable music channel and she sings or hums right along. Again, the smile on her face says it all.

It’s always amazing to me that with music, it is an instant recall. ~ Fast-moving sports on tv (like the Olympics, football, basketball….even baseball, if it’s the SF Giants). She enjoys watching her favorites (the SF Forty Niners, the AZ Cardinals, the Golden State

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Warriors) and can follow along since the games move quickly. ~ Wheel of Fortune. She enjoys trying to guess the puzzles…and is still pretty good at it. ~ Looking at old family photos and her high school yearbooks. They bring smiles to her face.

Once you have established a few things that they can still enjoy, you can make them part of your routine. My mom won’t truly remember eating the ice cream or listening to the music or watching the games or playing Wheel of Fortune or looking at the photos….but she knows what they are and knows they make her happy. Which in turn, makes ME happy. For the moment.

But what about MY depression? The caregiver is often left with depression of a different sort. We KNOW what is happening to our loved one. And we KNOW that we can’t fix it to the degree we want.

We continue to work hard to keep them comfortable and as happy as possible. But when the lights go out at night and we’re alone with our thoughts, we KNOW what is coming. We just don’t know WHEN. What about THAT kind of depression?

For me, I try and face reality. I try and tell myself that I am doing the best I can with the resources I have. And I tell myself that my mom knows I am taking good care of her. That does give me a bit of comfort. But I also find that I need to focus on ME, as well.

The best way for me to do that has been to surround myself with people I can talk with. They aren’t experts in Alzheimer’s disease or skilled therapists. They are friends who simply care about me and let me share my thoughts. I try and stay active with projects and people that make me happy, I work-out to keep my mind and body healthy and to relieve stress, and I have come to enjoy the quiet. Taking the time to prepare my thoughts for what is coming. And….my doctor has given me a very, very mild anti-depressant that has worked wonders. Depression is a horrible thing.

But, if we’re smart about it and do what we can to keep it at bay, we can move forward in spite of it.

That is my goal for both my mom AND myself.

Submitted by Kathy Linton,

West Valley Resident

January 2018

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