Valley 55 and better 2018

JULY/2017 JULY 2018

 What will your health look like in 10 years?

 Regional programs assist with chronic health conditions  Active aging programs abound in senior centers  And more inside

Le Center Leader Le Sueur News-Herald St. Peter Herald

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55 & BETTER

JULY 2018

She Knew She Had a Choice She Chose OrthoEdge for Joint Replacement Surgery.

Here’s Why:

She got quality care close to home. The OrthoEdge Joint Replacement Program features two of the most experienced orthopaedic care providers in the area, The Orthopaedic & Fracture Clinic and River’s Edge Hospital.

3,000 successful hip, knee and other orthopaedic surgeries 245 years of combined orthopaedic surgery experience 1 of 13 hospitals in the nation accredited as a hip and knee replacement center of excellence Getting the care you deserve and trust, close to home, makes OrthoEdge the right choice for joint replacement surgery.

Learn more at OrthoEdgeMN.com

Recognized for Being the Best!

River’s Edge Hospital has been recognized as a DNV GL Healthcare certified Hip & Knee Replacement Center of Excellence. Plus, River’s Edge Hospital is top rated for patient experience!

JULY 2018

55 & BETTER

Active aging programs abound in senior centers

By GABRIELA ROEMHILDT Guest columnist

lar due to the changing demographic within the United States, specifically, the coming of age baby boomers and increased life Senior Centers around the expectancy of all individuals. country are exBy 2020 — just 2 years panding programs away — Minnesota’s for older adults to 65+ population will include activities surpass the 5-17 schoolthat engage the age population for the minds, sharpen first time. By 2030, the memory skills, number of 65+ adults is and stimulate expected to double from physical activity today’s population. for the 65+ crowd.

The demographics These activities within this population are becoming of adults is incredibly Roemhildt increasingly popudiverse, which calls for

services equally as diverse. In addition to the wide age span, the physical and mental health of these individuals — as well as their specific interests and needs — spans the entire spectrum of possibilities. Some may be trying to find their identity in retirement or questioning their fiscal security, while others may be reflecting on their heritage or legacy. Some may simply be focused on the accommodations they can rely on from their community.

ACTIVE Continued on page 5

55 & BETTER

A special publication of the Le Center Leader, Le Sueur News-Herald and St. Peter Herald Publisher Media Consultants Advertising Design Chad Hjellming Kathleen Davies Mary Jo Blanchard Missy Daschner Kate McGillen Gayle Stelten

Look for this section on

55 & Better July 2018 is distributed to subscribers and readers of the Le Center Leader, Le Sueur News-Herald and St. Peter Herald at no additional charge. All rights reserved. ©2018 All advertising contained herein is the responsibility of the advertiser.

Le Sueur Community Center Exercise Anytime - 24/7 Access Available!

Don’t let PAIN keep you out of the GAME! Regular exercise can help you: - Reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease - Strengthen your bones and muscles - Improve your balance to help prevent falls - Improve mental health and enhance mood The Le Sueur Community Center is excited to offer the SilverSneakers Fitness Program, the nation’s leading exercise program designed exclusively for older adults. Your Medicare health plan may include SilverSneakers as part of your benefit package. Find out how you can take advantage of all that SilverSneakers has to offer!

Drop-In Fitness Classes for Seniors

-SilverSneakers Classic 9:30am Mon., Wed. & Fri. -SilverSneakers Circuit 8:00am Tue. & Thurs.

-SilverSneakers Yoga 8:00am Mon. & Wed. -Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program 9:30am Tue. & Thurs.

-Zumba Gold 9:30am Wed.

Numerous Health Reimbursement Programs Accepted Call for Activity Information and Hours CALL 507-665-3325 | 821 E. Ferry St. | Le Sueur, MN

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55 & BETTER

Socialization keeps us feeling young, improves health lunch or taking a shopping trip.

Being involved in activities in the community can also help proncreased research is show- vide opportunities to meet others and stimulate the ing social interacmind outside the nortions are healthy for mal daily activities. seniors in numerI am a local ous ways. Various fitness instructor and studies have shown see firsthand how imbenefits, including portant the socializaincreased immune tion piece is to overall system and reduced well-being: physical, risk for arthritis, mental, and spiritual. cardiovascular disOver the past years, ease, age-related I have taken the time memory loss, and Krause to create a family feeling mental health condiwithin our local senior group by tions.

For this reason, many com- doing functions outside of the munities are working to increase fitness studio, including coffee the social opportunities for se- hour, potlucks, bingo, card club, niors to enhance their lives and and workshops in numerous overall well-being. Socialization senior-related topics. Taking the is often thought of as a group ac- time to make the real connectivity, which it can be, but it also tion with my participants, giving can be as simple as going to visit them the feeling of belonging family or friends, going out to to something special, has really I By KRISANN KRAUSE Guest columnist

increased the attendance with classes, improved their quality of life, increasing recovery time after surgery, decrease in illnesses, increased strength and range of motion, and overall improved sense of happiness. They are making friends with people outside their normal circle, which, at any age, we can get stuck in our normal daily routines.

My folks are another great example of importance of socialization. They live in a small rural town and I truly believe the whole town can’t start in the morning until after coffee and shuts down in the afternoon for coffee. I know I could probably stop into any small town and find this same thing happening. It’s important for both their mental and physical wellbeing.

By promoting interactions among seniors, we can keep everyone feeling younger and enjoying life to the fullest.

JULY 2018

What will your health look like in 10 years?

By ROBERT GAZZOLA Guest columnist At age 73, explorer Will Steger of Minnesota completed a solo 1,000-mile, 72-day trek by ski and canoe in the Canadian Arctic. This isn’t realistic for the vast majority of us, but it’s an inspiring example of how people are Gazzola staying active and adventurous throughout life.

By doing what we love and being active, we can feel better as we age. I often talk with patients about where they want to be physically in 10 years. This leads to discussing the path they are on and how they can accomplish their health goals.

Many Americans want to play with their grandchildren and travel. They want to head to the lake, hike, bike, golf, garden,

hunt, fish, ride their motorcycle.

To keep doing what you love, it may take small, daily changes. Healthy eating, physical activity and maintaining your weight are key to leading an active life. They also help lower your risk for heart attack and stroke.

Eating: Metabolism slows in each decade.

To maintain a healthy weight, choose nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean meats like chicken and fish.

Try adding more beans to your meals. They are low-fat but high in fiber and protein which helps you feel fuller longer.

Moving: The American Heart Association recommends 30 minutes of aerobic activity at least five days a week and strengthening activities at least two days a week. Find a few activities you enjoy like walking, swimming, biking and danc-

ing. Regular exercise helps build strong bones, boosts mood, relieves stress, improves memory and helps you sleep better. Talk to your provider before beginning an exercise program.

Know your numbers: Your blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol and body mass index (BMI) provide a snapshot of your health and risk for heart disease, diabetes and other conditions. By knowing your numbers, you can take steps to improve your numbers.

Family history: High cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, certain cancers and osteoporosis run in families.

Make sure your provider knows your family history because you may need screenings earlier and more often.

The calendar will turn one day at a time, but our own aging doesn’t have to move at the same pace. Wellness choices we make can significantly slow our own aging. Make those great choices!

From Design to Done and Savy Seniors and Social Media every step in between.

(Metro) Over the last decade, seniors have become increasingly more savvy in regard to social media usage. The Pew Research Center found that, in 2015, around 35 percent of people age 65 and older reported using social media. That’s a large

jump from just 2 percent in 2005.

As of 2016, 65 percent of people between the ages 50 and 64 reported using social media, according to Pew. Social media usage among seniors continues to climb, although young adults still comprise the demographic most

likely to use it. Among seniors ages 50 and older, Facebook is by far the most popular social media platform used, followed by Pinterest and LinkedIn.

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JULY 2018

55 & BETTER

Regional programs assist with chronic health conditions

By MEGAN KIRBY Guest columnist

sues.

If you or someone you know is interested in Individulearning about chronals aged fifty-five ic disease prevention & maintenance, please years and older are consider attending a growing number one of many classes of people facing in your area. Upcomunique health chaling sessions include: lenges.

Living Well with DiaIn order to aide betes, Diabetes Prein navigating these vention Program, A health challenges, Kirby Matter of Balance, Stepthe Statewide Health Improvement Partnership, Min- ping On & Living Well With nesota River Area Agency on Ag- Chronic Conditions.

For more complete ining & local agencies are partnering to provide health prevention formation on registration for opportunities as well as tools to an upcoming classes in your help maintain chronic health is- area, please go to yourjuniper.

ACTIVE Continued from page 3 Regardless of their age, interest, or specific needs, community and senior centers are there to support them.

Common concerns amongst adults 65+ are the loss of mental and physical capacities. The best way to combat these natural progressions is to use it or lose it!

First, get into the habit of practicing good brain health. Exercis-

ing your mind is the same as exercising your body. Many centers now offer lifelong learning programs, mental health programs, and even games that engage your brain. Second, physical exercises are just as important as mental ones and surprisingly, many insurance companies cover the cost of exercises or classes that support balance and good physical health. A bonus is that both mental and physical activities are usually done in groups allowing for social interaction and opportunities for new friendships.

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Findatyour companion all Gail 507.530.2295 or TODAY! Call Gail at 507.530.2295 or ail.sumerfelt@lssmn.org Gail.sumerfelt@lssmn.org

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Upcoming Trainings: Living Well With Diabetes: June 25-Aug. 6 7 sessions from noon-4 p.m. at the Le Sueur Public Library; see website for details Diabetes Prevention Program: Aug. 22-July 17, 2019 6-7 p.m. at River’s Edge Hospital, St. Peter; see website or call for details Stepping On: Sept. 10-Oct. 22nd 7 sessions held on Mondays 10 a.m.-noon at VINE Adult Community Center, Mankato Another opportunity to keep your mind and body active is by volunteering at local organizations; thrift stores, food shelfs, humane societies and even schools are always in need of volunteers and this is a great way to stay active while giving back to your community.

Mental and physical stimulation, social interaction, and community engagement can all be found at your local senior center and may help you lead an even longer, healthier life.

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55 & BETTER

JULY 2018

Learn about cataracts to see more clearly (Metro) Many people take their vision for granted until a problem arises that affects their ability to see. While certain conditions may occur suddenly, others develop more gradually and may not even be noticeable until the problem has progressed significantly.

Cataracts is a common vision problem that is often associated with aging. The National Eye Institute says that, by age 80, more than half of all Americans either have a cataract or have had cataract surgery. Prevent Blindness America says there are more cases of cataracts worldwide than there are of glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy combined. The American Optometric Association defines a cataract as a cloudy or opaque area in the normally clear lens of the eye. Depending on its size, cataracts can interfere with normal vision. They typically occur in people over the age

of 55.

A cataract can be present in one or both eyes. The lens is responsible for helping to focus light or an image on the retina.

In a healthy lens, fluid and protein is arranged in a precise way that keeps the lens clear, offers NEI. However, as one ages, the protein may clump together and start to cloud a small area of the lens. Over time, this clouding may grow. Researchers also suspect there are other causes to cataracts, such as smoking or diabetes. In addition, wear and tear on the lens can develop into cataract clouding. Significant alcohol consumption, UV radiation, eye surgery, and high myopia also may contribute to cataract formation.

All About Vision says the types of cataracts include:

• Subcapsular cataract, which occurs at the back of the lens;

• Nuclear cataract, which

forms deep in the central zone of the lens; and

• Cortical cataract, which starts as white opacities in the periphery of the lens and then grows inward.

The Mayo Clinic advises that there are no known methods to prevent cataracts or slow their progression. But choosing a healthy diet full of antioxidants, quitting bad habits like smoking, managing diabetes, and having regular eye examinations can help. It’s also a good idea to wear sunglasses that block against UVA and UVB light when outdoors.

Cataracts can cause blurring of vision and even make it difficult to see in bright conditions. Colors may seem faded, night vision may be adversely affected and glare may be problematic. The AOA says that early cataracts typically are not treated and changes to prescriptions

may provide temporary visual tasks, surgery in which an artifi- by visiting www.nei.nih.gov, improvement. If a cataract pro- cial lens replaces the natural lens www.aoa.org, or www.allaboutgresses to the point that it affects may be necessary. vision.com. one’s ability to perform everyday Learn more about cataracts

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M ank ato adison ve. Suite ankato innesota onday Friday n ocated in adison ast all Rexto able rge Recha g aids ( nter by ome aga ine) hearin all for an appointment in home appointments available. f lines are busy call our cell phones.

Dr. Frank Pacovsky, Audiologist at 507-995-6090 Elaine Stenzel MN State Certified at 612-756-3766

Let Us Keep an Eye on Your Vision • Comprehensive Eye Exams • Diagnosis & Treatment of Eye Conditions • Cataract & Refractive Surgery Care • Vision Prescriptions & Optical Dispensary • Huge Selection of Frames & Contact Lenses • UV-Blocking Sunglasses & Protective Eyewear

Dr. Steve Anderson or Dr. Jeff Mootz.

303 Valleygreen Square Mall | Le Sueur, MN 507-665-3366 | www.mootzeyeclinic.com

JULY 2018

55 & BETTER

Tips to improve memory

(Metro) Forgetfulness can affect anyone. For example, few, if any, adults can say they have not experienced moments when they could not find their keys.

And once the keys are found, people move on without giving much thought to why they did not immediately remember where they left their keys.

Isolated incidents where people cannot recall where they placed their car keys or other minor bouts with forgetfulness do not occur by accident. In fact, the Harvard Medical School notes that they are likely byproducts of age-related changes in thinking skills. When people reach their 50s, chemical and structural changes in the brain may begin to occur, and these changes can affect a person’s ability to process memories.

Father Time may be a formidable foe, but people can take steps to give their memories a boost as they get older.

• brace reco itio i stead of trusting recall. Dr. Joel Salinas, a neurologist who specializes in behavioral neurology and neuropsychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital, notes that human beings are better at recognition than recall. That means people are more likely to remember something they read, such as a note or a list, than something they’re simply told.

• eco i e the alue o repetition. The Harvard Medical School notes that people might be more inclined to remember what they hear if they repeat it out loud. Names and addresses might be more easily remembered after they’re repeated out loud because repetition increases the likelihood that the brain will record the information and be capable of retrieving it later.

When studying for exams, many students repeat important points to themselves time and again, and that same approach can be

PAGE 7

ORTHOPEDIC CARE FROM HEAD TO TOE.

A diet that includes lots of vegetables can help men and women reduce their risk for cognitive decline. applied by adults who are trying to improve their memories.

• at a health iet stu published in 2015 in the journal Neurology found that people who eat healthy diets with lots of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and fish and little alcohol and red meat may be less likely to experience declines in their memory and thinking skills. Authored

by Andrew Smyth of McMaster University in Ontario and the National University of Ireland in Galway, the study following more than 27,000 people in 40 countries for an average of roughly five years. All participants were 55 and older and had diabetes or a history of heart disease, stroke or peripheral artery disease. Those who ate the healthiest diets were 24 percent

less likely to experience cognitive decline than people with the least healthy diets.

• rea thi s ow rea i thi s ow i to s all chunks also can help improve memory. If tasked with remembering something extensive, such as a speech, focus on a single sentence at a time, only moving on to the next sentence when you’re confident you have successfully committed the preceding sentence to memory.

Periodic memory lapses are often nothing to worry about. ut e a wo e co cer e about maintaining their memories can employ various strategies to do just that.

Our orthopedic surgeons work together to provide personalized solutions — supporting you on your journey back to active life.

Services include: • Fracture and trauma care

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Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato. Call 507-594-7474 for more information.

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We can help you make your smile look as young as you feel!

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55 & BETTER

JULY 2018

Grandparents called upon to raise grandchildren

(Metro) Older adults whose children have grown up often look forward to the next stages in life, which may involve retirement, downsizing and enjoying visits with their grandchildren. A growing number of aging adults may find themselves playing a key role in their grandchildren’s lives.

According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, 2.7 million grandparents across the country are stepping into parental roles for their grandkids. Some assist their adult children while others have become the primary caregivers. Factors like military deployment, illness, incarceration, and substance abuse are forcing grandparents to take on responsibilities they may have thought were over. PBS reports that, between 2009 and 2016, the number of grandparents raising grandchildren in the United States rose by 7 percent.

Although raising the next generation can bring about many rewards, including secu-

rity, sense of purpose, a deeper relationship with family, and social interaction, there are many obstacles as well. That includes the financial strain that raising children can place on individuals unprepared for the cost of childrearing. Census figures also show that about one-fifth of grandparents caring for children have incomes that fall below poverty level. Grandparents may be rusty concerning safety requirements and equipment now needed to care for grandchildren as well.

As grandparents navigate the unexplored waters of raising grandchildren, there are certain factors they need to consider.

and ensure access to grandchildren. In addition, grandparents may need certain legal documents, such as a power of attorney, citizenship papers, adoption records, or consent forms.

Legal advice or advocacy Certain circumstances may require grandparents to seek legal help so they can raise their grandchildren in lawful ways. If there is neglect, divorce, arrest, or other factors, it may be a smart idea for grandparents to seek the help of an attorney or advocacy group to clarify their legal rights

Take care of yourself Raising grandchildren can be emotionally taxing, especially if poor circumstances led to the grandchildren being placed with family. It is crucial to recognize feelings and one’s own health when caring for others. A grandparent who is exhausted or overwhelmed may not offer the

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Get educated The rules have changed since grandparents raised their own children. It is important they learn as much as possible on child safety guidelines. Consumer advocacy groups or pediatricians can help explain how guidelines have changed. New furniture and toys that meet current safety guidelines may have to replace older, unsafe items.

More and more grandparents are stepping into parental roles for their grandkids. appropriate care. Emphasizing one’s own mental and physical health is essential, as is getting help and advice when it’s most needed. The organization AARP recommends compiling a list of support services, such as respite care providers, counselors and support groups.

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Comfort Residence Is located on the corner of East Ferry Street and Plum Run (across from the High School) and is near the clinic, hospital and local shopping. We are located near St. Peter, Mankato, and Belle Plaine.

This two story building offers 43 assisted living and memory care suites.

There are many amenities to enjoy within our community including intimate dining room spaces, secured memory care space, salt water aquariums, a fireplace lounge, beauty shop, and outdoor patios.

Grandchildren will have feelings, too Children, whether they are old enough to understand or not, may react to change differently. Some children may act out while others may grow detached.

Grandparents can focus on providing stable environments and offer support and consistency

Smile

even if grandchildren are withdrawing or pushing their loved ones away with words or actions.

Raising grandchildren can be complicated, but it has become more prevalent. It can take time for these new family units to find their grooves. More information is available at www.aarp.org in their GrandFamilies Guide.

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JULY 2018

55 & BETTER

PAGE 9

Finding work after 50 Discounts available to the over 50 crowd (Metro) Unemployment isn’t easy for anyone, regardless of their age. But unemployed men and women over 50 may find it especially difficult to find work.

Whether it’s a byproduct of age-related discrimination or any of a host of additional variables, jobless older workers often struggle to find work. In a 2016 analysis of government figures, the Schwartz Center for Ecoo ic olic Analysis at the New School estimated that the jobless rate for workers 55 and older in August of 2016, six years after the Great ecessio , was earl perce t At the time, the national jobless rate hovered around 5 percent.

Unemployed men and women over 50 who are struggling to find work can consider the following strategies as they look to rejoin the workforce.

• e isit our r su employed men and women over 50 have no doubt updated their r su s to re ect their ost recent professional experience.

But they may need to trim some of the fat in regard to their work li e or ore ears a o o a s hiring managers may only be concerned with recent experience that illustrates skillsets that are relevant to today’s jobs. Men and women over 50 may consider their experience from 20 years ago invaluable, but if that experience does not meet the specific needs of the jobs they’re now seeking, then they should re o e it ro their r su s so hiring managers can quickly access the more relevant information from their work histories.

• brace st ce tur job hunting. Finding a job in the second decade of the 21st century is unlike job hunting in decades prior, and wholly different from how men and women over 50 looked for jobs upon be-

(Metro)Many people may not look forward to the day they ginning their professional lives. older applicants, viewing them turn 50, but cracking the half Networking can mean the dif- as potentially more reliable than century mark can have its perks. ference between unemployment younger workers simply look- Many retailers and businesses ofand landing a job. Go to job fairs ing to gain some experience in a fer discounts to men and women attended by hiring managers and particular industry before mov- over 50, and the following are join professional organizations ing on to the next opportunity. just a few ways that people who that host events where profes- • a e use o our e isti have turned the big 5-0 might be sionals in your field can gather. down time. Another strategy un- able to save some money.

• ur our employed men and women over • o ie tic ets e cost o age into a positive. 50 can try as they look for work going to the movies has skyrockMen and women is to make better use of their ex- eted in recent years, as today’s over 50 should ac- isting downtime. Enrolling in theaters now offer an array of cept the likelihood online courses can give prospec- amenities and, thanks to bigger that their new tive employers the impression screens and better technology, a managers and/or that applicants over 50 are both better viewing experience than hiring managers tech-savvy and willing to learn the theaters the over-50 crowd will be younger new things. Each of those things grew up visiting. While film lovthan them. When can help men and women over ers may need to wait until they interviewing for a 50 overcome any unjustified, turn 60 to cash in on discount job, men and wom- tech-related stigmas that hiring movie tickets, many chain movie en over 50 should managers may attach to older theaters offer discounted tickets make an effort to job candidates. to older patrons. showcase their Finding work after 50 is not al- • ra el e a wo e enthusiasm about ways easy, and job seekers may over 50 may be able to save subworking with and learning from need to adjust their approach stantial amounts of money on younger colleagues, while also before they can get back in the travel simply by typing in their noting their desire to commit workforce. birthdays when purchasing ticklong-term to a company. Some ets or planning trips. For examhiring managers may surprise ple, men and women over the age

of 62 are eligible to receive a 15 percent discount on the lowest available rail fare on most Amtrak trains.

• cestr s e a women age, many begin to develop a greater interest in their herita e ose who oi

(membership is available to men and women who are 50 or older) can receive a 30 percent discount on an Ancestry World Explorer membership in the first year they’re members.

• uto re tals e bers also are eligible to save up to 30 percent on base rates for vehicle re tals at is e iscou ts are applicable at participating locations in both the United States and Canada.

• otels e a wo e over 50 may have extra time on their hands once their kids go off to college and then begin careers and families of their own. Many such adults use that extra free time to travel, which requires staying in hotels. Many hotels offer discounted rates to travelers over the age of 50, and such dis-

counts may make it more affordable to book directly through hotel websites instead of using popular travel sites where rates tend to fluctuate by the minute.

• i i course, a restaurants offer early bird specials for patrons who want to eat a little bit earlier than guests t picall arri e or i er ow ever, many chain restaurants also offer discounts to senior diners regardless of when they arrive.

Such discounts are sometimes even applicable to both food and beverages.

• obile pho e ser ices Men and women over 50 may not have grown up with smartphones in their hands, but chances are they now cannot imagine life without them. Some mobile proi ers o er iscou ts to

members, while others may offer senior discounts to customers whether the re e bers or not.

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55 & BETTER

JULY 2018

Light the way for safer nighttime driving (Metro) Routine vehicle maintenance protects drivers on the road while also protecting the often considerable financial investment they make in their cars and trucks. Maintenance guidelines have changed thanks to technology, but drivers must continue to care for their vehicles to ensure the safety of themselves, their passengers and fellow motorists.

From the time they first get behind the wheel, many drivers recognize the need to periodically change their oil and have their tires rotated. But few drivers may understand the importance of maintaining their vehicles’ headlights, and just how compromised they and their passengers might be when driving with old, dimming or foggy headlamps.

Burned out lights greatly diminish driver visibility and may even draw the attention of law enforcement. But headlight bulbs don’t just burn out overnight. As bulbs age, their light output gradually reduces due to use and factors such as humidity, electrical resistance and filament fatigue. Drivers concerned about the efficacy of their headlight bulbs can take steps to improve their visibility when driving at

night.

• ccept our ow ul erability. The human eye is not adapted for nocturnal vision.

As a result, drivers’ visual acuity may be reduced by as much as 70 percent when driving at night.

Cloudy, dim headlights only exacerbate that problem, further compromising the safety of everyone on the road. Avoid aggressive driving and always obey the speed limits, even when it’s late at night and roads are empty.

• ear to reco i e hea lamp clouding. According to the automotive lighting innovator u ile s, su li ht, o o e, roa pollution, and even chemicals used in car washes can contribute to headlamp clouding. Clouded headlamps often appear hazed and yellow and reduce headlight output considerably. Routine headlamp inspection can help drivers discover clouded lamps that can greatly compromise nighttime visibility.

• estore clou e hea la ps. Clouded headlamps do not necessarily need to be replaced.

The Philips Headlight Restoration Kit can help drivers restore their clouded headlamp lenses.

The kit employs a protective UV coating that effectively restores

yellow, hazy lenses that have been compromised by years of exposure to the elements.

• eplace hea la ps that are past their prime. While not all clouded headlamps need to be replaced, some aging or outdated bulbs are best replaced with new models designed to produce substantially more light output. Drivers whose vehicles are equipped with standard halogen headlights may be surprised to learn that such lights typically begin to break down within two to three years of installation, during which time light output might be reduced by as much as 30 percent. Compared to standard halogen bulbs, Philips X-tremeVision Bulbs can put substantially more light on the road while producing longer beam patterns that make it easier for drivers to see more of what’s ahead of them at night.

Drivers’ visibility is dramatically reduced once the sun goes down, but maintaining headlamps can help drivers combat that loss of vision. More information about headlamp maintenance and the alternatives to traditional halogen headlights is available at www.philips.com/automotive.

Philips headlight bulbs and Headlight Restoration Kit will help drivers improve nighttime visibility and safety.

JULY 2018

55 & BETTER

A cruise can be an ideal vacation for seniors who have the time to get away.

Cruising tips and tricks

(Metro) Cruising can be an ideal vacation for people of any age, but particularly for seniors.

Cruises combine all-inclusive meal packages with accommodations, breathtaking ports of call and pre-arranged activities, so vacationers do not have to lift a finger for days on end. Cruising also can be a social activity, meaning singletons can meet up with other like-minded people and enjoy the cruising experience together.

Cruise Lines International Association, a global organization advocating for the cruising community, found that 25.8 million passengers expected to take a cruise in 2017, and various cruise companies invested more than $6.8 billion in new ocean vessels.

Whether a person is new to cruising or is a seasoned ocean or river traveler, there are always techniques to try to score great deals or enjoy the experience even further. Consider these tips and tricks, courtesy of Royal Caribbean, The Cruise Critic, the Travel Channel, and other vacationing experts.

• esearch the ships, a not just the cruise lines. Cruise lines each offer their own ame-

nities and are known for certain features. One cruise line may be a better match for young singles, while others may cater to families. In addition, certain ships may have their own special features such as water slides, athletic events, casinos, and more.

Choose a ship that meets your needs.

• rri e the i ht be ore There’s no need to rush to the port to board the ship. Extend the vacation a little further by arriving a night or two before and checking into a nearby hotel.

Some hotels may offer free parking or shuttle service to the ship.

• Choose a close port Select a port within driving distance to avoid airline costs and the extra hassles of coordinating luggage and travel to the port.

• oo i i ahea o time. Cruise ships often have a main dining room and then specialty restaurants. If you want a particular meal, make reservations before leaving port. Certain restaurants may offer discounts or perks, such as a free bottle of wine or premiere seating.

• ersta whats i cluded. Cruise ships have many foods and drinks that are included in the packaged price.

Certain branded items, such as specialty coffees or ice creams, may be available at an additional charge, as are premium drinks. ut cha ces are ou ca a free, similar version elsewhere on the ship.

• plore special iscou ts When shopping for a cruise, see if there are discounts available for seniors, teachers, people in the military, or those who belong to certain clubs. Cruises often love to incentivize, so it pays to ask about discount pricing.

• a e a list o acti ities t can be easy to get overwhelmed by all of the offerings on a cruise ship, so much so that there’s some stress over trying to fit it all in. Recognize that you can’t see or hear it all, and prioritize what’s important to you. Make sure you have plenty of time to relax.

• oo at the ri ht ti e Cruises may be more available after Labor Day when kids go back to school and the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas when others are too busy to travel.

Cruising can be an ideal vacation for travelers who are savvy enough to do their research.

PAGE 11

The tenants and residents at Benedictine Living Community of St. Peter have lots of reasons to be smiling...

They are enjoying life at its finest!

• Full continuum of care including independent and assisted living, nursing home, memory care, post-acute care, in-patient or out-patient therapy, palliative and hospice care under one roof • Interior access to a clinic, hospital, and fitness center • Nurse practitioners and physicians on campus • Scheduled campus activities and wellness programs • Senior apartments with washers and dryers and offering underground parking

To schedule a visit or to learn more: Benedictine Health Center 507-934-8281 1907 Klein Street, St. Peter

Benedictine Court 507-934-8817 1906 Sunrise Drive, St. Peter

www.blcstpeter.org

PAGE 12

55 & BETTER

JULY 2018

Join the Saints for a delightful day at the newly restored ($310 million restoration project) State Capitol!

Join the Saints for a delightful day at the newly restored ($310 million restoration project) State Capitol!

After an interesting guided tour of the State Capitol, we will have lunch and check out the exhibits at the Minnesota History Center! In August, our club will see “Newsies” at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatres and later in the month visit the beautiful Minnesota Landscape Arboretum before dining at Lola’s Lakehouse on lovey Lake Waconia. The month of August is topped off with our annual daytrip to the Great Minnesota Get-together to check out everything new and on a stick at the State Fair! Call us for more information on our NCB Saints Club Events!

For more info please contact us at Nicollet County Bank at 507-931-3310!

220 South Third Street Telephone 931-3310 St. Peter

www.nicolletcountybank.com

Nicollet County Bank Saints Club Events: July 26—State Capitol & History Center Tour August 15—“Newsies!: @ Chanhassen Dinner Theatres August 23—Mn. Landscape Arboretum & Lunch on Lake Waconia August 30—Mn. State Fair!

September 10—Canadian Rockies Tour (thru’ the 16th) September 20—Boomers & Beyond Senior Expo @ Community Center October 18—“Drinking Habits II” @ Daytrippers Dinner Theater November 14—“Lend Me a Tenor” @ Old Log Theatr