Senior Scope - September 2021

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SEPTEMBER 2021

Greater Midland’s 50+ Center has more than 200 regular visitors George and Sue Lane’s legacy: A nature preserve in Gladwin County Veggies and pasta are an ideal pairing

Table of Contents 3 Greater Midland’s 50+ Center has more than 200 regular visitors 4 Sanford’s Florence Smith recalls 2020 dam failures 5 Effective exercises for seniors 6 Dr. Nash cautions people about the dangers of skin cancer 8 George and Sue Lane’s legacy: A nature preserve in Gladwin County 10 Some great holiday gifts for retirees who can’t wait to travel 11 Facing Fall, and Senior Hot Lunch Menu: Gladwin County 12 Fall flavors shine in a chewy cookie 13 Crossword, and Guess Who? 14 Mary Myers, the ‘puzzle lady,’ loves spending time at senior wing 15 Do you need a handyman?

16 Some strategies to address drug interaction side effects 17 Healthy soup offers many different benefits 18 What seniors should know about herbal medicines 19 Veggies and pasta are an ideal pairing 20 Crossword, and Crypto Fun 21 How to help seniors adapt to new automotive technology 22 Greens and grains are the recipe for a healthy salad

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Senior Scope | September 2021

Greater Midland’s 50+ Center has more than 200 regular visitors DAVE SHANE For the Daily News Michigan has a greater percentage of seniors than most states – and its number of elderly is growing at one of the fastest rates in the nation.

The Greater Midland Community Center has a plan for that. It’s called the Barstow/Shipps Wing, also known as the 50+ Center.

Amanda Ewald supervises the wing, where she believes she has found the perfect job. She grew up in Michigan’s Thumb, then graduated from Saginaw Valley State University with a degree in exercise science.

“My passion is definitely in seniors,” she told the Daily News. “I wanted to work in health and wellness, and this is the perfect job for that.”

The 50+ Center provides many ways that seniors can stay active and fit. It also creates opportunities for seniors to meet, compete in activities, attend learning programs, listen to live music, take day trips, and attend outreach programs.

“It’s my goal to create a warm and welcoming place, somewhere they can escape the rest of the world, gain friendships and get healthier,” she said.

There are a variety of ways to exercise that aim to suit a participant’s desired pace. Ewald leads several of the classes. SeniorSneakers is a class to improve cardio, strength, coordination and flexibility and is offered three days a week. Line dancing takes place twice a week. Gentle aerobics class is available three times per week.

The community center also has games to stimulate the mind, such as euchre, Mahjong, and its most popular and most difficult game – duplicate bridge.

Ewald knows many of the 200-plus regular visitors to the senior wing. That's because the staff wants to get to know seniors and be there to talk to them.

a lot of good conversations about life. … It’s so rewarding.”

While she is there to serve seniors, she said she also has learned from them.

“There’s nothing better than working with seniors.

They’re an amazing group,” Ewald said. “They care so deeply about each other, and me. They treat me well, and I learn a lot from them.”

One of the lessons she has learned is to enjoy life, as it is precious.

“Soak in the moments, soak up life. Life is so fleeting.”

Ewald said she enjoys watching seniors interact with visiting children, who are often fascinated to talk to the elderly.

“Children will look at them with awe and excitement, just like a senior looking back at them.”

She urged seniors to check out her wing of the community center if they want to learn more.

“We impact several hundred seniors each week … in different ways,” Ewald said. “We have a lot of people here multiple times a week. There are a lot of regulars.”

Amanda Ewald

Senior Scope is a product of Midland Daily News and Hearst Questions, comments and advertising inquiries SeniorScope@Hearst.com or 989.839.4228

“I have an open door policy,” she said. “We have September 2021 | Senior Scope 3

Sanford’s Florence Smith recalls 2020 dam failures DAVE SHANE For the Daily News Florence Smith has had many experiences in her life. After all, she turned 99 years old on July 26.

With sadness family members recalled watching homes on the other side of Sanford Lake become swamped in the 2020 flood – while they avoided the worst of the tragedy.

But the Sanford woman who was born and raised in Coleman said that experiencing the broken dams and floods of May 2020 was something she never dreamed could happen.

Bill’s wife, Corrine, said she was filming the flood – until she just couldn’t do it anymore.

Smith gathered with four generations of her family recently at the North West River Road home of her son, Bill Smith, to recall the day they looked out the window of his Sanford Lake home and watched with amazement as hoists, docks and boats floated by.

“I was videoing it until I just got sick of it,” she said, “so I stopped.”

Bill said his family was able to recognize boats belonging to friends and neighbors as they moved downstream. Many hoists still litter the landscape of the now dry lakebed.

“I never, ever dreamed of it,” she said. “There were decks with solar lights on them just going down the river. You would have thought they were out having a nice ride. It was really something to see.”

The Smiths own a pontoon boat, but it was out of danger because the flood occurred a week prior to them returning it to the water.

“The boat was not in yet. We were going to put it in that holiday weekend,” he said.

She watched the tragedy unfold with her 2-yearold great-granddaughter, Joslyn Smith, at her side.

The spectacle brought to full circle the fact that the elder Smith was just about the same age as her great-granddaughter when they built the Edenville and Sanford dams in 1924 and 1925, respectively.

“

Experiencing the broken dams and floods of May 2020 was something Florence Smith never dreamed could happen.

”

In fact, Florence Smith remembers making the journey from Coleman to Sanford at about the time the dams were completed and Sanford Lake was formed. The 1941 graduate of Coleman High School now resides at Meridian Acres assisted living.

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Their boat hoist was in danger, but family members were able to secure it to a tree and save it.

Florence Smith and great-granddaughter Joslyn Smith watch from the window of the home of Bill and Corrine Smith on Sanford Lake during the May 2020 flood. (Photo provided) “The only thing I really remember was that it was a picnic lunch. I remember the men were log rolling in the middle of the lake,” she said. “If we got there by wagon or car, I can’t remember…But it was exciting because we never went any place.”

The Bill Smith family was raised on the west side of Sanford Lake, in a home high above the water level. His children would ski or fish on the lake nearly every day. The family also remembers taking Florence out to jet ski on her 75th birthday.

The next generation of Smiths – parents Casey and Jenna Smith – were getting set to help young Joslyn enjoy her first real summer on Sanford Lake. But it never happened.

“We were getting ready to start tubing (with our daughter) in the summer of 2020, and then it all went away,” Casey said.

Instead, they have a once-in-a-lifetime photograph of great-grandmother Florence and her great-granddaughter Joslyn watching together as Sanford Lake disappeared before their eyes.

Long-term plans are calling for a new Sanford Lake dam – almost exactly 100 years after the first one was built. And, once again, a young member of the Smith family is ready to enjoy the experience.

Senior Scope | September 2021

Effective exercises for seniors Losing interest in an exercise regimen is a situation many fitness enthusiasts have confronted at one point or another. Overcoming a stale workout routine can be simple for young athletes, whose bodies can typically handle a wide range of physical activities. That flexibility allows younger athletes the chance to pursue any number of physical activities when their existing fitness regimens grow stale. But what about seniors who have grown tired of their workouts?

successfully engage in a variety of exercises that benefit their bodies and are unlikely to grow stale.

Even seniors who have lived active lifestyles since they were youngsters are likely to encounter certain physical limitations associated with aging. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the likelihood of dealing with one or more physical limitations increases with age. CDC data indicates that 8 percent of adults between the ages of 50 and 59 have three or more physical limitations. That figure rises to 27 percent among adults age 80 and over.

• Resistance band workouts: Resistance band workouts can be especially useful for seniors who spend a lot of time at home. Resistance bands are inexpensive and don’t take up a lot of space, making them ideal for people who like to exercise at home but don’t have much space. Resistance bands can be used to strengthen muscles in various parts of the body, including the legs, arms and back. Resistance bands can be pulled or pushed in any direction, which allows for more versatility in a workout than weight machines and dumbbells. That versatility allows seniors to spice up their workout regimens when things get a little stale.

Physical limitations may be a part of aging for many people, but such obstacles need not limit seniors looking to banish boredom from their workout routines. In fact, many seniors can

• Water aerobics: Sometimes referred to as “aqua aerobics,” water aerobics may involve jogging in the water, leg lifts, arm curls, and other activities that can safely be performed in a pool.

The YMCA notes that water aerobics exercises are low impact, which can make them ideal for seniors with bone and joint issues like arthritis.

• Pilates: Pilates is another low-impact exercise that can be ideal for seniors with bone and joint issues. According to SilverSneakers®, a community fitness program for seniors that promotes living through physical and social engagement, Pilates can help seniors build overall strength, stability and coordination. SilverSneakers® even notes that seniors can experience improvements in strength and stability by committing to as little as 10 to 15 minutes of daily Pilates exercises.

• Strength training: Seniors on the lookout for something more challenging than a daily walk around the neighborhood should not overlook the benefits of strength training. The CDC notes that seniors who participate in strength training can stimulate the growth of muscle and bone, thereby reducing their risk for osteoporosis and frailty. In fact, the CDC notes that people with health concerns like arthritis or heart disease often benefit the most from exercise regimens that include lifting weights a few times each week.

Physical limitations are a part of aging. But seniors need not let such limitations relegate them to repetitive, boring workouts.

September 2021 | Senior Scope 5

The staff of Nash Dermatology, including Shannon Ahrens, left, Dr. Jennifer Nash, center, and Dr. Chelsea Houthoofd, right.

(Photo provided/ Nash Dermatology)

Dr. Nash cautions people about the dangers of skin cancer DAVE SHANE For the Daily News Dr. Jennifer Nash of Midland has some sound advice for patients who notice a strange-colored or especially slow-to-heal spot on their skin – have it checked by a doctor.

“We were definitely excited about opening the new facility,” she said. “We were running out of space at our old place, especially as we were adding another doctor.”

Too often, the local dermatologist said, people wait too long to have their skin conditions examined by a professional. And for some types of skin cancer, that can be dangerous.

Nash, 41, grew up in Saginaw, has been a board-certified dermatologist since 2010, having graduated from the University of Michigan Medical School. She and her husband, Michael, reside in Midland with their three children.

“I definitely encourage getting things checked out sooner, rather than later,” Nash told the Daily News. “Melanoma, you want to catch at an early stage, when it’s easier to cure.”

Nash said skin cancer is the most common ailment she and fellow doctor Chelsea Houthoofd treat at Nash Dermatology, 2711 W. Wackerly St. “By far, the most common thing we see is skin cancer and the ongoing checkups we do for skin cancer patients,” she said.

Nash opened her facility on Wackerly in July 2020, where exams, surgeries, biopsies and cosmetic procedures take place onsite.

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Dermatologists treat an array of other skin conditions – including acne, rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, cysts, moles and other skin tags. Her office also handles cosmetic requests such as hair loss, botox injections and the removal of acne scars.

“Some people get a lot of age spots, and sometimes they want some of them removed,” Nash said. “We do quite a bit of that, too.”

Being in the skin protection business, Nash said it’s important at this time of year to protect skin from the sun by either covering it with clothing or wearing sunscreen.

Senior Scope | September 2021

Being your

Dr. Jennifer Nash works with a patient. (Photo provided/Nash Dermatology)

source for the finest Barrel aged pantry goods and for BourBon and maple Barrels for Brewers

www.Blisgourmet.com

From left, Shannon Ahrens, Dr. Jennifer Nash and Dr. Chelsea Houthoofd.

(Photo provided/Nash Dermatology) “Over time, that’s the biggest danger – the sun.”

Less sun exposure can also slow the signs of aging that appear on the surface.

As with many medical fields, technology and scientific advancement are affecting dermatology. Nash said there are new laser devices to treat psoriasis and eczema, and platelet-rich plasma therapy is a relatively new way to help promote hair growth.

No matter what the treatment, Nash said she feels satisfaction in knowing she has helped a patient overcome a concern.

“It’s definitely satisfying to be able to help people and make a difference in their life,” she said, especially when a patient may have been to other doctors who haven’t been quite as successful. “It makes it all worthwhile. … You know you were able to help somebody who’s been struggling.”

Call for a Virtual Tour!

When Nash is not helping her patients, she said her family spends time together at the children’s sporting events, boating in Northern Michigan during the summer, and skiing in the winter.

September 2021 | Senior Scope 7

George and Sue Lane’s legacy: A nature preserve in Gladwin County STEVE GRIFFIN For the Daily News George A. Lane, in parallel with a sterling career as a chemist at The Dow Chemical Company, pursued trout fishing and conservation with similar focus, expertise and passion.

Pictured are George and Sue Lane. (Photo provided)

That led to his role as a founder and longtime member of Midland’s Leon P. Martuch Chapter of the international conservation group Trout Unlimited.

And to his deep affection for his property and cabin along the North Branch of the Cedar River in Gladwin County.

When Sue (Pulkiner) Haske married the widowed Lane in 2000, she brought a passion for conservation and nature that she traced to her spiritual roots and her long marriage to the late Gary Haske, a legendary and lifelong Midland hunter and angler.

So, as the Lanes explored their "second act" together, they not only enjoyed George’s cabin refuge on the Cedar and the natural setting on which it stood, they became more and more committed to preserving its natural charms and setting the stage for others to enjoy and be inspired by them.

Both Sue and George, long my friends, are gone now, but their conservationist visions live on in the George and Sue Lane Preserve.

The Little Forks Conservancy and TU’s Martuch Chapter were to hold a

The Little Forks Conservancy and TU’s Martuch Chapter were to hold a ribbon-cutting in late August to celebrate creation of the Conservancy’s preserve: 270 acres boasting 2.5 miles of trails and nearly a mile of frontage on the Cedar’s North branch. Soft-opened in 2018 and further developed since, it is the conservancy’s first project outside of Midland County, fulfilling a longheld goal of the group.

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The George and Sue Lane Preserve can be accessed from a parking area located on Shearer Road approximately one-third mile south of M-18. For more information visit www.littleforks.org.

(Photo by Steve Griffen/For the Daily News) Senior Scope | September 2021

ribbon-cutting in late August to celebrate creation of the Conservancy’s preserve: 270 acres boasting 2.5 miles of trails and nearly a mile of frontage on the Cedar’s North Branch. Soft-opened in 2018 and further developed since, it is the Conservancy’s first project outside of Midland County, fulfilling a long-held goal of the group.

A lifelong outdoorsman active in both the Conservancy and the TU chapter, George Lane donated a conservation easement – the rights to potentially develop the property – to the Conservancy in 2004. When he died in 2016, he left the property itself to the TU chapter. But the national TU organization had in the interim decided that its individual chapters could not own land.

Said Josh Jenkins, Martuch chapter president, in a Conservancy news release, “We also quickly realized that though our chapter had expertise in managing waterways, we were lacking the ability to manage the non-riparian zone of the property,” that portion not immediately adjacent to the Cedar, a high-quality trout stream.

Land management is a specialty of the Conservancy, on whose board George served and which works to permanently protect and improve natural habitats in mid-Michigan. (It has helped private landowners protect almost 4,000 acres of land, including more than 20 miles of waterways and shoreline.)

In the novel partnership, at the Lane Preserve, river corridor projects are conducted by the TU chapter, echoing the Lanes’ stewardship through sediment removal and erosion control work.

The Conservancy manages upland portions of the property. Among current plans are further trail development, continued efforts to eradicate invasive species, and planting of native grasses and wildflowers.

Steve Wilkowski, who sits on the boards of both the Conservancy and the TU chapter, said this places him “in the catbird seat,” from which he can see “what a perfect collaboration it is” between the two groups.

Another organization, the Chippewa Watershed Conservancy, holds the conservation easements, and a trust established by Lane directs that it remain open for public hunting and fishing.

Saturday, October 2 10 am-4 pm

Within the Preserve are examples of ecosystems including forestland, grassland and trout stream, all visited by several connected trails.

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About those trails: Several are fairly new, and not the richly-signed and unmistakable bare-dirt paths some visitors might expect. More signage is being installed, though, and increased visitation – among ribbon-cutting goals – will make trails more apparent. Map, compass, insect repellent and water are good carry-alongs.

The payoff is great: immersive patches of thick, newer tree growth, a stunning stand of massive oaks, grassy fields. Scanning across the property line, one views a neighboring pond; listening carefully, one can hear its mallards chuckling.

And then, there’s the gurgling whisper of the shaded Cedar as it sneaks past an iron-framed bench, from which one can be confident George and Sue Lane mapped plans to preserve the splendid experience for others.

The George and Sue Lane Preserve can be accessed from a parking area on Shearer Road approximately one-third mile south of M-18.

For more information, visit www.littleforks.org.

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Activities subject to change.

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September 2021 | Senior Scope 9

Some great holiday gifts for retirees who can’t wait to travel Retirement provides a chance for adults who have worked throughout their lives to take a step back, relax and enjoy the fruits of their labors. Though the most indelible image associated with retirement might once have been a rocking chair, modern retirees like to get up and go, and holiday shoppers can take that joie de vivre into consideration as they look for the perfect gift for retirees who can’t wait to fly the friendly skies or hit the open road.

• Maps: It might seem simple, but roadmaps can be an ideal gift for retirees. A recent poll from RBC Wealth Management found that 63 percent of Americans age 50 and older say travel is an important retirement goal.

Roadmaps of their own country or a foreign country can help seniors plan their dream vacations. Seniors can study maps and create their own routes as they visit popular tourist attractions and find lesser known locales along the way.

• Vouchers/gift cards: Airline vouchers can inspire retirees to take to the skies and visit locales that have long taken up real estate on their bucket lists. If seniors prefer to take to the open road, hotel vouchers or Visa gift cards that can be spent anywhere that accepts credit cards can help pay for gas, meals or entry to popular parks and tourist attractions.

• Projector and portable screen: Retirees may want to get away from it all, but that doesn’t mean they have to leave everything behind. A projector and portable screen can let on-the-go seniors enjoy movie night under the 10

stars or watch their favorite teams even when they’re far from home. This can be an especially good gift for retirees who are anxious to gas up their RV and leave home behind for a few weeks.

• Lifetime pass to world-renowned parks: All United States citizens or permanent residents are eligible for the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Senior Pass, which provides access to more than 2,000 recreation sites across the country. Those sites are managed by federal agencies like the National Park Service, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, the Bureau of Land Management, and the Bureau of Reclamation, among others. A similar system is in place in Canada, where adults age 65 and up can gain unlimited admission for a full year to more than 80 Parks Canada locations across the country.

• Tablet: Of course, retirees may still want to enjoy some of the comforts of home while they’re off in parts unknown. A new tablet can help traveling retirees read the latest bestsellers and stay in touch with family and friends via video conferencing apps like Zoom. Many campgrounds and hotels now provide free WiFi to guests, so a tablet can be just what on-the-go retirees need to stay connected to life back home.

Holiday shoppers can make the season bright for their favorite retirees who can’t wait to spend their newfound free time traveling the world.

Senior Scope | September 2021

Council on Aging - Serving Gladwin County

Senior Hot Lunch Menu September 2021 Sept. 1: BBQ Riblets 5, Hamburger Bun 25, Red Skin Potatoes 16, Butternut Squash 15, Diced Pears 16, Chocolate Milk 20 Sept. 2: Pollock Almondine 7, Baked Potato 18, Sour Cream/Chives 2, Mixed Veggie 5, Apricots 14, Bread 11 Sept. 3: Baked Spaghetti 31, Garlic Toast 17, Lettuce Salad 5, Mandarin Oranges 9, Chocolate Milk 20 Sept. 6: CLOSED FOR THE HOLIDAY Sept. 7: Chili W/Beans 20, Cornbread 27, Winter Blend 3, Pineapple Tidbits 17, Chocolate Milk 20 Sept. 8: Cheese Omelet 4, Sausage Links, Raisin Bran Muffin 23, V8 Juice 6, Yogurt 27, Chocolate Milk 20 Sept. 9: Mac & Cheese 63, Brussel Sprouts 6, Wheat Roll 22, Diced Peaches 14, Chocolate Milk 20 Sept. 10: Beef Roast 1, Mashed Potatoes 9, Brown Gravy 3, Lettuce Salad 8, Orange 18, Cracked Wh. Roll 23 Sept. 13: Stuffed Green Pepper 19, California Veg Blend 4, Mandarin Oranges 13, Bread 11, Choc Chip Cookie 16 Sept. 14: Beef Stroganoff 5, Egg Noodles 19, Green Beans 4, Fruit Cocktail 16 Sept. 15: Chicken Patty 13, Hamburger Bun 25, Sweet Potato & Apples 26, Key West Blend 4, Butterscotch Pudding 25, Chocolate Milk 20 Sept. 16: French Bread Pepp. Pizza 33, Lettuce Salad 8, V8 Juice 6, Mixed Fruit 20, Chocolate Milk 20 Sept. 17: Cheeseburger Soup 12, Baked Potato 18, Sour Cream/Chives 2, Midori Blend 9, Pear 28, Bread 11 Sept. 20: Pork Chop, Scalloped Potatoes 23, Broccoli 3, Dinner Roll 12, Orange 18, Chocolate Milk 20 Sept. 21: Tator Tot Casserole 29, Zucchini Squash 4, Banana 27, Bread 11, Chocolate Milk 20 Sept. 22: Lasagna 28, Lettuce Salad 8, Gar-

Facing Fall TRENA WINANS Director of Education & Outreach at Senior Services of Midland County It is hard to believe, but summer will soon be coming to a close and we will be facing a new fall season. Along with hot apple cider and pumpkin spice, we hope you’ll take the start of fall as an opportunity to reflect and take action on an important topic: fall prevention. September is Fall Prevention Month, and there is no better time to take serious steps to reduce your risk.

Every year millions of older adults, age 65+, fall. That is one out of every four lic Toast 17, Tropical Fruit 13, Chocolate Milk people in this age group, and 20% of 20 those falls cause a serious injury such Sept. 23: Pot Roast 1, Mashed Potatoes 18, as a broken bone or head injury. But Brown Gravy 3, Green Bean Casserole 4, there is good news! The majority of falls Red Velvet Cake Roll 42, Chocolate Milk 20 are preventable.

Sept. 24: Cheese Ravioli w/Marinara 40, Senior Services is always working toKyoto Veg. Blend 5, Raisin Toast 26, Hot ward reducing the number of falls in our Peaches Delight 15 community. During September, we’re Sept. 27: Hot Dog on Bun 28, Sweet Potato partnering with MidMichigan Health and the Michigan Health Improvement Fries 16, V8 Juice 6, Apple 21 Alliance to bring you opportunities to Sept. 28: Beef Tips 6, Egg Noodles 19, Mal- learn more and reduce your risk of a ibu Veg. Blend 3, Pear 27, Bread 11, Choco- fall. This month’s Lunchtime Learner late Milk 20 offerings will feature presentations on Sept. 29: Baked Ham 12, Scalloped Po- reducing fall risk. The first opportunity is tatoes 23, Green Beans 4, Dinner Roll 12, on September 10, Think First to Prevent Falls, and the second on September Pineapple Chunks 17, Cookies Cream Salad 24, Are Your Medications Causing 2 Falls? Both programs are available from Sept. 30 Sloppy Joe 10, Hamburger Bun 25, 12-1 pm at Trailside Activity & Dining Red Skin Potatoes 16, Midori Blend 5, Or- Center located at 4700 Dublin Avenue in Midland. To register, please call (989) ange 18, String Cheese, Chocolate Milk 20

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Suggested meal donation for adults 60+ is $2.30. Non-senior guests $5.00. Bridge Cards are accepted. Menu is subject to change. White 2% milk - 12, is included in each meal unless otherwise noted. Number on menu indicates carbohydrates for that item. Dining Center meals served at noon unless otherwise indicated. Reservations needed one day in advance – call the center of your choice. Could you or a senior you know benefit from Home Delivered Meals? Would you like to be a volunteer driver for the Meals on Wheels Program? Call the Council on Aging’s office at 989-426-5450 x 103

633-3700 or register online at www.

SeniorServicesMidland.org.

On September 24, you will also have an opportunity to meet one on one with a local pharmacist to go through your medications to spot any possible negative interactions that could lead to a fall. If you would like to attend, call (989) 633-3700 for an appointment between 8:30-11:30 am.

Additionally, we have numerous new fitness classes. One of the best ways to reduce falls is to exercise! Consider signing up for SAIL, which is specifically proven to help reduce falls, or try Pilates, Tai Chi, or Walk15 in addition to our other fitness options. Our full selection of fitness classes is available at www.SeniorServicesMidland.org.

Then take a good look around your home for fall hazards. Together we can face fall proactively and reduce our chances of injury. Please reach out to Senior Services at 989-633-3700 for more information.

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US A TOP HOME CARE AGENCY!

September 2021 | Senior Scope 11

Fall flavors shine in a chewy cookie Fall is a season of cooler temperatures and changing leaves, and it also marks the return of autumn flavor profiles. Root vegetables, roasts and heartier fare are prime cooking ingredients this time of year. In terms of baking, treats spiced with ginger and cinnamon are in demand each fall.

Carrot cake and oatmeal cookies are familiar favorites this time of year. In this recipe for “Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies” from “Live Well Bake Cookies” (Quarto Group) by Danielle Rye, delicious spiced carrot cake is transformed into a soft and chewy cookie.

Carrot Cake Oatmeal Cookies Makes 22 cookies 1 cup all-purpose flour, spooned

and leveled 1⁄2 teaspoon baking soda 1⁄4 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon ground ginger 11⁄2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats 1⁄2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

1⁄2 1⁄4 1 1 3⁄4

1⁄3 1⁄3

cup packed light brown sugar cup granulated sugar large egg, at room temperature teaspoon pure vanilla extract cup lightly packed freshly grated carrots cup raisins cup chopped walnuts

1. Preheat the oven to 350 F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats and set aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger until well combined. Stir in the old-fashioned rolled oats and set aside.

3. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or in a large mixing bowl using a handheld mixer, beat the butter, brown sugar and granulated sugar together for 1 to 2 minutes, or until well combined.

4. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined, making sure to stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

5. Mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, then fold in the grated carrots, raisins and chopped walnuts until fully incorporated.

6. Using a 11⁄2-tablespoon cookie scoop, scoop the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave a little room between each one. Gently press each ball of cookie dough down to slightly flatten it.

7. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the tops of the cookies are set and the edges are lightly browned. Remove from the oven, and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 to 10 minutes, then carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

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Senior Scope | September 2021

CLUES ACROSS 1. It governs Federer and Nadal’s sport 4. Golden apple tree 8. Central Mexican river 10. Horn 11. Egg-shaped 12. With tooth 13. French modernist painter 15. Disprove 16. Painful intestinal obstruction 17. Baby shoes 18. Make the grade 21. Type of screen 22. Christian fraternal organization (abbr.)

23. Computer giant 24. When you hope to get there 25. Corporate executive title (abbr.)

26. Shout of welcome or farewell 27. Imaginary awards for good deeds 34. A citizen of Iran 35. It can be sounded 36. Making dirty 37. Romanian city 38. Baking ingredient 39. Share a common boundary with 40. Succulent plants 41. Penny 42. Jr. U.S. Senator Paul 43. “Laurie Partridge” actress Susan CLUES DOWN 1. A type of bomb 2. Pacific island country 3. Earth is one 4. A place to gather around 5. Expressed opposite views 6. Group that lives near Siberia 7. Ore deposit 9. Language related to Eskimo 10. Narrative piece of music 12. The distance covered by normal stride 14. Glycoprotein hormone (abbr.)

15. Mathematical term (abbr.)

17. Popular beer 19. Jabbing 20. Historic Swedish castle 23. Humorous expressions 24. Christmas and New Year’s Day each have one 25. Filled up 26. Nerve that serves the forearm (abbr.)

27. One of British descent 28. A way to get at 29. Food-related allergic reaction 30. Group of arteries near the pelvis 31. Picked up 32. Being three in one 33. Obscene 34. Dravidian language 36. Growl September 2021 | Senior Scope 13

Mary Myers, the ‘puzzle lady,’ loves spending time at senior wing ‘I’m going down there as long as I can’ DAVE SHANE For the Daily News Visitors to the senior wing at the Greater Midland Community Center have a lot to see and do.

difficulty levels. They usually take about a week to finish, she said. And she enjoys the occasional difficult puzzle that works the brain.

There are exercise rooms that later in the day host people who play games like euchre or Mahjong. There is a billiards room where a group often gathers to play pool. There also are occasional music concerts and pancake breakfasts.

“One time I had a Christmas puzzle.

It had 1,500 pieces, I think. It took five to six weeks to do that one,” she said.

The supply of puzzles seems endless.

“People keep bringing in puzzles, so we haven’t run out yet.”

And, tucked away in one corner, there is a good chance you will see Mary Myers.

Myers had to avoid the community center during its downtime caused by the recent pandemic, but she continued exercising and working on puzzles at her nearby home. Otherwise, there is no keeping her from the building.

Myers, 80 and a longtime Midland resident, is a regular at the community center and has been for about the last eight years.

It started with an exercise program that she began at age 73 – solid proof that it’s never too late to begin a workout regimen. Soon after, she began tackling the jigsaw puzzles that are available to the public.

Now, she can usually be seen five days a week at the senior wing working on a puzzle.

“Yup, they call me the puzzle lady, but they know my name,” Myers said.

Working on jigsaw puzzles was a family tradition at her childhood home on the corner of East Buttles and Third streets, she told the Daily News.

“I came from a family of 10, and it was something we were always doing.

Sometimes, we’d finish a puzzle in a night," she said.

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Mary Myers, 80, of Midland, works on a jigsaw puzzle during a recent visit to the Greater Midland Community Center. (Photo by Dave Shane/For the Daily News) Myers worked for 29 years at the Midland hospital and has a son and daughter who still live in Midland.

She normally begins her day in the Wellness Center gymnasium at 7:30 a.m.

“There are usually quite a few people in there, some who work out before going to work,” she said.

Later in the morning, three days a week, she will participate in the SilverSneakers program, which consists of stretching and light workouts designed specifically for seniors.

But between or after exercising, Myers heads back to a jigsaw puzzle set up in the senior wing “to wind down.”

It’s a puzzle anyone can work on, but Myers admits she is usually there more than the other visitors.

“Yes, I think I sit there the longest,” she said. “But there’s a lot of people who come over and help, even the guys who come out of the pool hall come over and help, and on Wednesday the card players come out and help.”

The puzzles are of various sizes and

“It’s just like a part of my life. I’m over there every day at 7:30,” she said. “I love it. I’ve met so many wonderful people, and the staff there is nice.”

Amanda Ewald, the 50+ Program coordinator, said she has gotten to know Myers quite well over the years. Her office is not far from the puzzle table.

“She loves the facility and she loves the people. It’s her way of socializing,” Ewald said. “People get to know her pretty quickly. … and I would sit and do puzzles with her quite a bit.”

Their friendship apparently has a long future ahead of it.

“I’m going down there as long as I can,” Myers said. “I don’t plan to stop anytime soon.”

Senior Scope | September 2021

Do you need a handyman?

Senior Services offers a handyman program for seniors in Midland County. A volunteer team helps seniors maintain their homes by making them safe and secure. Many older adults have to give up the independence of living in their home simply because the home has not been modified for their safety. Senior Services Team of Handymen to the rescue!

What Team Handyman Will Do • Make exterior doors secure • Windows and screens are secure and working • The outside entrance lights are working • The exterior areas around the house are safe • Slip hazards inside the home such as rugs, cords, etc. are secured • Stairs and handrails are secure • Ceiling light bulbs are replaced • Anti-slip surfaces are installed in bath tubs • Install grab bars • Install raised toilet seats • Install smoke alarms • Offer energy efficient light bulbs • Complete other safety-related repairs and tasks “I am so grateful that I can now safely take a shower.” - Handyman Client

Is There a Cost?

Labor and parts are free to seniors in Midland County. However, donations are greatly appreciated and are used to help expand the program and help more people in the community.

Things Our Handyman Service is Unable to Do • Roof work • Eaves replacement or cleaning • Plumbing projects without a shut off valve • Crawl space work • Lawn and garden work • Painting • Floor replacement • Wash windows • Chemical applications • Furniture moving or rearranging • Any job which is outside of the available talent of the current volunteers For information and access to our Handyman Services, please call 989-633-3742 and be on your way to a safe and secure place to live!

Handyman Volunteers Needed!

We are also currently in need of volunteer handymen, call 989-6333741 or fill out the Volunteer Contact Form at www.seniorservicesmidland. org/volunteer/ to sign-up today!

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September 2021 | Senior Scope 15

Some Strategies to address drug interaction side effects Medications are utilized in various ways. Some people take medication to treat issues like headaches or the common cold, while medicine also may be used to treat serious diseases like cancer or heart disease. Each medicine is different, but all share one common trait: the potential to produce side effects.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration notes that the side effects of medications can range from relatively harmful nuisances like a runny nose to potentially life-threatening issues like an increased risk for heart attack. When taking prescription medications or even over-the-counter drugs like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, it’s imperative that people discuss the side effects of such medicines with their physicians. Such discussions are especially important for people who are already taking other medications, as the American Academy of Family Physicians notes that adverse drug reactions are more likely to affect people who take more than three medicines per day.

People who suspect they’re experiencing side effects from medications should contact their physicians immediately. Physicians may recommend a host of strategies to treat these common side effects.

• Constipation: The health care experts at Michigan Medicine note that drinking plenty of fluids and exercising can help people overcome constipation. Doctors also may recommend incorporating more bran and whole grains into your diet. Consuming fruits and vegetables that are high in fiber, including apples, beans, broccoli, and prunes, also may help people overcome constipation.

• Headaches: Michigan Medicine indicates that headaches might appear as the body adjusts to a new medicine. As the body acclimates, headaches might lessen in severity and ultimately disappear. In the meantime, people can speak to their physicians about the safety of taking additional medicine to treat their headaches.

• Diarrhea: The U.S. National Library of Medicine notes that nearly all medicines can cause diarrhea. Foods like applesauce and rice are unlikely to lead to upset stomach, and these can be consumed when people are experiencing diarrhea.

Avoiding spicy foods and foods that are high in fat also can help people overcome diarrhea.

• Loss of appetite: The online medical resource Healthline notes that various drugs, including sleeping pills, antibiotics, blood pressure medications, and diuretics, have been known to cause loss of appetite. Eating healthy snacks between meals and choosing protein-rich foods at mealtime may ensure people get enough calories,

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vitamins and minerals each day, even if they’re not eating as much as they used to.

• Nervousness: A feeling of nervousness or of being on edge is another potential side effect of certain medications. This may occur as the body adjusts to a new medicine. However, patients may want to discuss lower doses or even alternative medicines with their physicians.

Medications can produce various side effects. If side effects appear, people should contact their physicians to develop a safe, effective plan to address them.

Senior Scope | September 2021

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Healthy soup offers many different benefits

Food is a critical component of healthy living, helping people to reduce their risk for illnesses and even helping them to overcome colds and other ailments. The properties of soup, for example, can chase away chills and offer other benefits. Soup is hydrating, and the ingredients included in the recipe may be able to do everything from tame coughs to reduce mucus to boost the immune system.

This recipe for “Navy Bean and Collard Greens Soup” courtesy of John La Puma, M.D., ChefMD, includes collard greens. When one chops or chews collard greens, he or she gets the powerful, helpful chemicals isothiocyanates and indole-3-carbinol. They can help the liver produce enzymes that detoxify cancer-causing toxins in the body. In addition, the soup includes tofu, which will adopt the flavor of other ingredients and add a form of lean protein along with the beans.

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Navy Bean & Collard Greens Soup Serves 4 3

4

1½

cups vegetable broth, such as Pacific Organic brand cups coarsely chopped stemmed collard greens, preferably organic (1 bunch 10 to 12 ounces) cup packaged julienned (matchstick) carrots

1½

1

1

¼

teaspoons chili garlic puree or chili paste with garlic (12 ounce) package extra firm tofu, cubed in bite size pieces (16 ounce) can unsalted navy beans, drained cup grated Romano cheese

Combine broth, collard greens, carrots, and chili garlic puree in a large saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat; cover and simmer 10 to 12 minutes or until greens are nearly tender. Stir in tofu and beans; cover and simmer 5 minutes or until vegetables are tender. Ladle into shallow bowls; top with cheese.

Tips: Great northern or cannellini beans may replace the navy beans and Swiss chard may replace the collard greens if desired. Also, look for chili garlic puree or chili paste with garlic in the ethnic section of the supermarket. Because the beans are unsalted, there is no need to rinse them before adding to the soup.

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September 2021 | Senior Scope 17

What seniors should know about herbal medicines A lifelong commitment to healthy living can improve life expectancy and quality of life while reducing a person’s risk for various conditions and diseases, including cancer and heart disease.

Healthy lifestyle choices like eating a nutritious diet and exercising regularly can greatly reduce a person’s risk for various ailments, but such choices don’t eliminate that risk entirely. As a result, even health-conscious men and women may need to rely on medication to stay healthy. That’s especially true for seniors since age is a risk factor for various conditions.

A 2014 analysis that appeared in the Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics examined nearly 1,300 published articles that focused on the use of herbal supplements by elderly patients. Though only 16 of those articles met the researchers’ criteria, the analysis concluded that herbal supplement usage is common among elderly patients, as was a lack of dialogue about such supplements between medical professionals and seniors. A concerted effort to initiate such dialogue on the part of both patients and health care providers can help shed light on herbal medicines so people taking them, including seniors, can learn more about what they’re putting into their bodies.

What are herbal medicines?

The National Health Service of the United Kingdom, a widely respected and publicly funded health care system, describes herbal medicines as those with active ingredients made from plant parts like leaves, roots or flowers.

Because herbal medicines are made from plant parts, many people assume they’re safe to take without consulting a physician. However, the NHS urges people to treat herbal medicines with the same care and respect as they would more conventional medicines. Herbal medicines can affect the body in various ways. A frank discussion with a physician can shed light on the potential side effects of herbal medicines and whether or not they’re safe.

Why should seniors be concerned about herbal medicines?

The NHS notes that seniors taking other medications may experience problems if they begin taking herbal medicines as well. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, which is part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, notes that more well-designed studies are necessary to fully evaluate interactions between herbal medicines and prescription drugs. However, the NCCIH notes that some evidence points to some harmful effects of mixing the two. For example, the NCCIH reports that prolonged exposure to concentrated garlic extracts may reduce the efficacy of some drugs. The potential for these types of interactions should be enough to compel seniors to think twice before taking herbal medicines without first consulting their physicians. In addition, the NHS has developed a list of various types of people for whom herbal medicines may not be suitable, and that list includes the elderly.

Seniors considering herbal medicines should discuss the pros and cons of such products with their physicians prior to taking anything.

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Senior Scope | September 2021

Pasta recipes are versatile and can quickly feed a crowd when increased accordingly. Another benefit to pasta is it often is a safe bet when hosting a dinner party that includes people who follow vegan or vegetarian lifestyles.

Furthermore, with the abundance of “alternative” pastas available, even individuals who must go gluten-free can indulge without worry.

Fresh greens paired with pasta deliver an abundance of nutrients to the meal. This recipe for “Penne With Seasonal Greens” from “The Contented Vegan” (Head of Zeus) by Peggy Brusseau includes a variety of seasonal greens, but they can be modified to taste or with whatever fresh produce is available at the market.

Penne With Seasonal Greens Serves 4 2 Tbsp untoasted sesame oil 16 cups chopped mixed seasonal

greens, such as cavolo nero,

tatsoi, mustard greens,

dandelion leaves, Tenderstem,

or purple sprouting broccoli,

small amounts of spinach,

arugula, and chicory 1 Tbsp dried basil 1 Tbsp dried oregano 1 fresh chili, finely chopped, or

1⁄2 tsp chili flakes 1⁄4 tsp ground nutmeg 1 whole garlic bulb, cloves

separated and chopped 1 pound, 2 ounces dried penne Extra virgin olive oil for drizzling according to the packet instructions until just tender. Drain the pasta into Pour the oil into a large (4-liter/16 a colander and return it to the hot cup) saucepan. If you don’t have pan. Stir the greens through the pasone, use the largest pan you have ta and serve, drizzling a little extra and fill it with greens. Press and virgin olive oil over each serving. pack the chopped greens into the pan. It should be absolutely full!

Note: You will notice that some Cover the pan and place over a medium-high heat for 5 minutes.

If you have used a smaller pan, add the remaining greens and the herbs, spices and garlic. There will be room — the greens will reduce in bulk very quickly. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the penne and cook

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Veggies and pasta are an ideal pairing

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greens produce more juices than others when they are cooked. This is normal and depends on how fresh the greens are as well as which specific plant is used. Romaine lettuce and bok choy, for instance, release more juices than broccoli or white cabbage; but all greens release some. You can make adjustments to the amount of liquid by adding 1-2 tablespoons water or sauce, if needed; or by adding a few cherry tomatoes.

September 2021 | Senior Scope 19

CLUES ACROSS 1. Religion native to some in China 5. Nursemaids 10. Coats a porous surface 12. Garment of long cloth 14. Containing a broader message 16. University of Dayton 18. Patti Hearst’s captors 19. Insane 20. Bristlelike structures in invertebrates 22. Taxi 23. Trainee 25. Comedian Carvey 26. Some couples say it 27. Belong to he 28. High schoolers’ test 30. Young goat 31. You drive on one 33. Denotes a time long ago 35. Space between two surfaces

37. By and by 38. A way to sell 40. A line left by the passage of something 41. Indicates near 42. Where wrestlers compete 44. Prosecutors 45. Body part 48. Soluble ribonucleic acid 50. Indicates silence 52. NFL’s Newton 53. Ancient Roman garments 55. Drunkard 56. Expression of satisfaction 57. Thus 58. Noisy viper 63. Plants of a particular region 65. Communicated with 66. Latches a window 67. Swarm with

CLUES DOWN 1. Split pulses 2. Brew 3. Ask humbly 4. Distinctive smells 5. Digressions 6. Partner to cheese 7. Father of Araethyrea 8. Made a cavity 9. Tin 10. Appetizer 11. Presenting in detail 13. Compound in guano and fish scales 15. Cool!

17. “__ than a doornail” 18. Popular literary form __ fi 21. Be the most remarkable 23. “Final Fantasy” universe character 24. Buffer solution 27. Muslim physician using traditional remedies

29. Fantastical planet 32. S. American plant 34. Domesticated animal 35. The tops of mountains 36. Expression of disapproval 39. Skeletal muscle 40. Game show host Sajak 43. One’s interests 44. Identify the existence of 46. Partner to “oohed” 47. Does not accept medical help (abbr.)

49. Hammerin’ Hank 51. Lowest point of a ridge between two peaks 54. Elaborately draped garment 59. Check 60. Car mechanics group 61. One point east (clockwise) of due north 62. Austrian river 64. A command to list files

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I broke through in Hollywood working as a comedian. I appeared as a regular cast member on “Saturday Night Live” and became a film star.

Answer: Adam Sandler 20

Senior Scope | September 2021

How to help seniors adapt to new automotive technology Modern automobiles are more technologically advanced than ever before. That tech isn’t just making driving more comfortable and convenient, but also more safe.

In a recent analysis of motor vehicle accidents, researchers at the International Institute for Highway Safety found that vehicles with blind spot and lane departure warning systems were involved in 11 percent fewer sideswipes and head-on crashes than cars that did not feature such systems. In addition, the IIHS estimates that the number of automobile crashes in the United States could be decreased by 85,000 each year if every vehicle were outfitted with a lane departure warning system.

Driver assistance systems have made driving safer for millions of people across the globe, but one demographic may need some extra help adapting to modern vehicles, and may even need a little extra encouragement to utilize tech that can keep them safe behind the wheel.

The Centers The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that, in 2018, the for Disease Control United States was home to 45 and Prevention notes million licensed drivers aged 65 that, in 2018, the United and over. That marks a 60 perStates was home to 45 cars made by different mancent increase since 2000. Though million licensed ufacturers, visit the dealership seniors’ perceived unwillingness or drivers aged 65 where your loved one bought his inability to utilize modern technolor her car and ask for a quick tuogy is often overstated, some aging and over. torial on all the safety features in the drivers may need a little extra help as vehicle. Salesman demonstrate these they try to learn how to use assistance features every day, so it shouldn’t take long for technologies in their vehicles. them to show you the ropes.

• Learn the tech yourself. Assistance tech• Be patient. Each person adapts to a new technologies are not all one and the same. Vehicle nology at his or her own pace. It’s important to manufacturers have their own systems and there remain patient when teaching aging drivers how can be a learning curve when adapting to a new to use the tech in their vehicles. Old habits die one. If you aspire to teach a senior how to utilize hard, and while some drivers may quickly adapt the assistance technologies in his or her vehicle, to tech like backup cameras, others may not be first learn the tech on your own. If both you and so quick to abandon driving techniques they’ve your aging friend or family member own a Subaru, chances are you already know how to use the been safely using for decades. Stay the course, remain patient and allow senior drivers to adapt tech in your loved one’s vehicle. If you drive

at their own pace.

• Teach one tech at a time. It can be overwhelming for drivers of all ages to adapt overnight to all the tech in their new vehicles. When teaching senior drivers how to utilize various driver assistance technologies, take it one tech at a time.

When coupled with your patience, this approach can help seniors avoid being overwhelmed and increases the likelihood that they will embrace the tech in their vehicles.

Many senior drivers utilize driver assistance technologies every day. A patient and methodical approach to showing seniors how their vehicles can help them stay safe behind the wheel can be a road map to helping seniors adapt to life in modern vehicles.

September 2021 | Senior Scope 21

Greens and grains are the recipe for a healthy salad Quinoa has long been a mainstay of healthy cooking and is an important component of vegan cuisine. Quinoa is rich in protein and fiber and has various vitamins and B minerals. Quinoa also is a complete protein, which means it has all of the essential amino acids in the amounts the body needs.

While quinoa is technically not a grain (its grains are the seeds or fruits of cereal grasses), it often is treated as a grain and classified as a “pseudocereal.” Encyclopedia Britannica utilizes that term to describe non-grasses that people consume as if they were traditional grains. The Whole Grains Council even classifies quinoa as a whole grain due to its method of preparation and nutrient profile.

Quinoa can be delicious in many forms and be an alternative to rice, pasta, couscous and other grains in cooking. Try this “Green Quinoa Salad” from “Plant-Based Gourmet: Vegan Cuisine for the Home Chef” (Apollo) by Frances Gordon.

Green Quinoa Salad Makes 6 to 8 servings as a side, or 4 lunch portions Quinoa mix 12 ounces white quinoa, rinsed and dried 1 tablespoon coconut oil 1 teaspoon whole coriander seeds 1 Pinch sea salt Salad 3 cups spinach, hand torn 3 stalks celery, diced 1 stalk from a fennel bulb, diced 1 green bell pepper, diced 1 large cucumber, diced with skin left on 11⁄2 avocados, diced 1 medium parsnip, peeled and diced 1⁄2 white onion, thinly sliced and chopped 1⁄2 cup chopped fresh cilantro 1⁄4 cup chopped fresh Italian parsley 1⁄4 cup chopped fresh dill 1 jalapeño, diced (with seeds if more

heat desired) 2 garlic cloves, crushed and minced 10 basil leaves, chopped 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper Dressing 1⁄2 avocado 22

2 1 1⁄2 1⁄4

tablespoons extra virgin olive oil tablespoon fresh lime juice teaspoon salt teaspoon ginger powder

1. Combine the quinoa and coconut oil in a saucepan over medium-low heat and cook, stirring, to gently toast until the color of the grain darkens slightly, about 2 to 3 minutes.

2. Add the coriander seeds, sea salt, and 4 cups room temperature water and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes. Uncover and simmer for another 5 minutes.

3. Combine all the salad ingredients in a large bowl. Let the quinoa cool for 15 minutes, then add to the bowl and toss to help wilt the salad greens. Mix well.

4. Combine all the dressing ingredients in a blender and pulse to combine. Then transfer to a small mason jar or salad dressing bottle with a tight-fitting lid. Shake vigorously until it looks creamy, then toss with the salad.

5. Let cool at room temperature, then chill for at least 1 hour before serving.

Senior Scope | September 2021

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September 2021 | Senior Scope 23

What Can You Do About Your Bunion?

Written by: Dr. Kristin Raleigh The doctor will also evaluate the extent of the deformity by performing an x-ray. The x-ray is necessary to check for other causes of pain, determine the extent of arthritis in the joint and to see how the bones are aligned should any surgical intervention be recommended.

A bunion is a deformity of the foot is when you develop a firm lump on the side of the great toe. The big toe joint can be also become enlarged and develop arthritis. The great toe can start to press against your second toe as the deformity worsens. A bunion can develop at any time during childhood or adulthood. Bunions can be completely non-painful or can cause discomfort whenever in firm shoes that create pressure on the bump. Bunions tend to be inherited most often although they do tend to be seen more often in women who wear heels and those who have a flatfoot deformity.

The most common symptom of a bunion is a large bulging bump on the inside of the base of the great toe. Other symptoms include soreness and redness around the great toe joint, swelling, callus formation at the bottom of the great toe and persistent or occasional pain.

Your podiatrist can diagnose a bunion by examining your foot in the clinic.

24

Regarding surgery, it is only recommended if the bunion is regularly painful and affecting your quality of life. Conservative treatment can often be all your need for treatment. These treatments include orthotics, padding, shoe gear modifications (most often involving wider shoe gear selection), anti-inflammatories, activity modification, injectional therapy and physical therapy. These are often all the treatment necessary for bunions.

If your pain if more persistent and you’ve failed conservative treatment then your podiatrist may recommend a foot surgery called a bunionectomy to remove your bunion. During the operation, the swollen and inflamed soft tissues are removed, the great toe will be straightened and the bones may be remodeled or fused together. The goal OUR DOCTORS: of surgery is to correct the cause of the bunion deformity and prevent it from recurring. Depending on the severity of the bunion, will decide which procedure is right for you and this will be discussed in your surgical consultation.

There are a multitude of procedure types to correct a bunion and this is decided on with you and your podiatrist and tapered to severity of deformity, your lifestyle and any other health conditions you may have to be concerned with. Some procedures allow you to walk right away after surgery while other require you to be off your foot for 4-6 weeks.

Kristin Raleigh DPM, AACFAS, CWS-P

Nicholas Post-Vasold DPM, FACFAS, CWS-P

Heidi Monaghan DPM, FACFAS, CWS-P

If you are struggling with bunion pain or think you might have one and want suggestions on what to do to prevent issues, call the office at 989-4886355 to make an appointment with any 3 of our surgical podiatrists to discuss further! We are here to help!

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Senior Scope | September 2021