Active Living 10

HOW TO MAKE FRIENDS AFTER A MOVE

3 LIFE-SAVING SELF-EXAMS YOU SHOULD TAKE REGULARLY A "SUPER" TRICK FOR GARDEN SUCCESS

YARD GAMES A publication of the No10 / Spring 2020

1

Dr. Kyle D. McCrea & Dr. Victoria Vo Your Home for Dentistry

YOUR HOME FOR DENTISTRY

Dr. McCrea has been creating healthy, beautiful smiles in Richmond/Rosenberg since 1994. Dr. McCrea and Dr. Vo are graduates and current Professors at the Herman Hospital Dr. both McCrea hasof been creating healthy, beautiful smiles in based General Practice Residency ProgramDr. for UTDS Houston.

Richmond/Rosenberg since 1994.

McCrea and Dr. Vo is to work with each patient to produce the best possible are Their bothgoal graduates of and current Professors at the Herman outcome based on that patient’s individual needs and desires.

Hospital based General Practice Residency Program for UTDS Houston. Their goal is to work with each patient to produce the best possible outcome based on that patient’s individual needs and desires.

From Check-ups and Cleanings to Implan

We want to be your home for Den

From Check-ups Implants to Braces, Visit us to at www.mccreadds.com to learn more about our office, our outsta We want to be your home for Dentistry 601 South Second St. Visit us at mccreadds.com to learn more about Richmond, TX 77469 our office, our outstanding team & services we offer 281-342-2121

601 South Second St. • Richmond, TX 77469 281-342-2121

PHYSICAL

THE RAPY

ARE & C A R quAtic ehAb

OF FORT BEND

YOU CAN CHOOSE YOUR THERAPY PROVIDER!

• Make the most of your medical experience • Why pay more out of pocket?

• Call today and learn how! www.ptcare.net PATIENT REVIEWS

 RICHMOND/ROSENBERG 1500 Jackson, Suite 400 Richmond, Texas 77469 281-344-8900

281.344-8900

FORT BEND HE

KATY/FULSHEAR 26440 FM 1093, Suite A180 Richmond, TX 77406 281-347-8900

RALD

READERS' CH OICE

Contents ISSUE 10 / Spring 2020

P6. GARDENING

P18. FUN

P7. HEALTH

P20. HEALTHY MINDS

A "super" trick for garden success CPAP Failure Alternative Options P8. NUTRITION

Remember When…1956 3 Life-Saving Self-Exams You Should Perform Regularly

The Lowdown on Healthy Fats P12. COVER STORY

Old School Fun & Exercise: YARD GAMES P14. WELLNESS

Magnesium

P15. RELATIONSHIPS

How to Make Friends After a Move P16. FINANCE

Preventing Contractor Fraud

MEDICARE BROKER Confused with Medicare?

Turning 65 Coming Off Company Benefits

FUNERAL NEGOTIATOR

Save Time and Money on Funeral Services Funeral as low as $5,995 Cemetery Plots 40-60% off

IT'S NEVER TOO LATE TO MAKE NEW FRIENDS

15

LOOKING FOR A WAY TO GET INVOLVED IN THE COMMUNITY? BECOME A VOLUNTEER!

R osenb erg R ailr oa d Museum 1921 Av enue F * Rosenberg TX 774 71

Stephanie Salcedo Funeral Cemetery Broker, Medicare Broker

(832) 953-4229 Three Sugar Creek Center, Suite 100 Sugar Land, TX 77478 • www.sylegacy.net

Give tours, work the gift shop, help with festivals, share your passion for trains and history!

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW YOU CAN JOIN OUR TEAM OF VOLUNTEERS: 281.633.2846 INFO@ROSENBERGRRMUSEUM.ORG

Not connected with or endorsed by the federal Medicare government. https://www.prepaidfunerals.texas.gov/

Executive Publishers Greg and Suzanne Fox Jumpstart Publishing, LLC

Creative Team

Managing Editor Suzanne Fox

Design Tra Pham

Editor Liz McGehee

Production Claire Thomas

Copy Editor Chad Ruiz

Š 2018 Jumpstart Publishing, LLC New Orleans, LA All rights reserved Printed in the USA

by Fox Print Services igofox.com

Contributing Writers Patricia Danflous Michele Robert Poche Anja Springthorpe Chad Ruiz

Director Dianne Waller

The information contained in Active Living is intended for educational purposes only. A reader should never substitute information contained in Active Living for the advice of a health care professional. Jumpstart Publishing, LLC and publishers of Inspire Health, do not endorse or promote any of the products or services described in the pages of Active Living and the publishers do not verify the accuracy of any claims made in the editorial or advertisements contained in IActive Living. Readers should not use the information in Active Living for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment.

Readers should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or have or suspect they have a health problem.

V5

GENERAL MANAGER Clyde King cking@hartmannews.com

Focused on Trusted Vision Care Our full range of comprehensive eye care services at familyfriendly prices, Including:

WRITERS & CONTRIBUTORS Marquita Griffin mgriffin@fbherald.com

Eye health care for all ages n Treatment of eye diseases n Immediate care for eye emergencies n Full line of fashion and budget eyewear n LASIK evaluation and comanagement n Specialists in contact lens fit and comfort n Most insurance plans accepted n

ADVERTISING John Oliver joliver@fbherald.com Stefanie Bartlett sbartlett@fbherald.com Ruby Polichino ruby@fbherald.com GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Melinda Maya mmaya@fbherald.com Rachel Cavazos rcavazos@fbherald.com TO ADVERTISE To advertise in future editions of Active Living please call John Oliver, Stefanie Bartlett, or Ruby Polichino, our advertising representatives, at 281-342-4474 for rates, information and deadlines.

6 Years Running

Faris Ohan O.D.

Ouida Middleton O.D.

Grace Tran O. D

4000 Avenue I • Rosenberg, TX

281-342-4664 www.VisionTrends.com

GARDENING

Y

ou might think master gardeners spend countless hours making our gardens the envy of all that behold them and, to be honest, some master gardeners do. However, one of the great things about being a master gardener is learning tricks that make us more successful in our gardens with less work. Who wouldn’t like that?

Let me tell you about one of my favorite tricks: One of the best things you can do to ensure garden success is to choose the right plant for the right place. Sounds easy but there are so many amazing plants to choose.

The solution to this problem is a wonderful Texas A&M AgriLife program called Texas Superstars®.

These plants have been tested by university horticulturists and master gardens, and are proven to be winners throughout a variety of locations in Texas.

What do I mean by winner? Hardier, more pest and disease resistant,

more and bigger flowers, more and tastier fruit, and a “wow” factor is what I mean.

In other words, these plants are more likely to thrive in your garden and dazzle you at the same time. Also, to be designated a Texas Superstar, a plant must be easy to propagate so the plants can be mass-produced for consumers at reasonable prices.

An example of a Texas Superstar is Duranta, also known as Golden Dew Drop.

This deciduous shrub features masses of blue or purple flowers from spring through fall as well as golden berries in late fall. It attracts bees, butterflies, hummingbirds and other birds, and if you are still not sold, it’s drought resistant, too.

Another example of a Texas Superstar is the Dwarf Cherry Surprise Tomato, which produces a bounty of cherry tomatoes that are considered four times as sweet as other cherry tomatoes.

It’s resistant to most common toma-

to diseases and is highly recommended for home and school gardens.

New Texas Superstars are added from time to time as they are tested and approved, the newest being an evergreen vine called the Yellow Butterfly Vine. It has delicate yellow flowers but its name comes from the salmon-colored seed pods that resemble butterflies. It is drought-tolerant and thrives in hot sunny locations.

The value of choosing Texas Superstars is more than just their beauty or your increased probability of success.

If you choose plants that will thrive in your garden, you save money that might have been wasted on plants that die before their time. You also save time and energy in nurturing plants that will be successful. Just remember to plant and care for them according to directions.

If you are interested in more information about these plants, visit texassuperstar.com. This site includes detailed plant descriptions, growing

The Texas Superstar Duranta is also known as Golden Dew Drop.

tips and where plants can be purchased. You can also look for plants with Texas Superstar labels.

For answers to your specific gardening questions, contact the Fort Bend Master Gardener Hotline at fbmg.org/contact.

The Texas Nursery and Landscape Association and Texas Department of Agriculture (“Go Texan” Program) partner with Texas A&M faculty, Agrilife Research and Agrilife Extension to spread the word about Texas Superstars.

Is Your Life Insurance A Burden?

Your Policy Premiums Have Become Unaffordable?

You Have Other Needs For Your Money?

You No Longer Want The Coverage?

You Simply No Longer Need The Policy?

We will buy your life insurance policy.* Do not surrender or allow the policy lapse. You have an asset that we will buy from you for a significant amount. You can spend the money on anything you want, its use is unrestricted.

Give David a call for a no cost, no obligation review of your unwanted policy at 713-427-1191 or email ds@griffinpe.com Griffin Private Equity, LLC is a Texas company based in Fort Worth, Tx. Acquisitions are in conjunction with Texas licensed life settlement provider.

SPECIAL BONUS OFFER

Contact us by April 30, 2020 regarding your policy and receive an extra $2,000 Bonus if we buy your policy. *Policies of $100,000 or more.

A CPAP FAILURE? You Are Not Alone and Not Out of Options

F

By Tammy Osina

or those who are diagnosed and being treated for Obstructive Sleep Apnea, a condition affecting approximately 30 million people in the United States, you know that your treatment options are few and many tend to be on the invasive side.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea, OSA, is caused by the airway collapsing during sleep, causing the sufferer to stop breathing. The condition is characterized by gasping and choking during sleep and, most commonly, loud chronic snoring.

Long-term, untreated sufferers are susceptible to co-morbidities like hypertension, heart disease and impotence from the oxygen deprivation and vascular damage associated with the condition.

The “gold standard” for treatment is Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, CPAP. CPAP is a machine that blows air into the throat, increasing the pressure internally so that the airway cannot collapse or become blocked. The causes of these blockages typically are the tongue and soft tissues falling into the throat or excess weight around the neck collapsing the airway.

A person using CPAP therapy wears a mask, much like an oxygen mask used in a hospital, which is attached to the machine with a hose.

A prescribing physician sets the air pressure level based on the person’s OSA severity. The increased pressure keeps the airway open, allowing the OSA sufferer to breathe normally, without cessation throughout the night. Patients who go on CPAP therapy for their OSA report increased energy during the day, better concentration and decreases in many other health conditions that associated with OSA. While CPAP therapy is the best means of treatment for OSA, many patients have a hard time using the machine. In cases of severe OSA, the pressure setting can be quite high, making treatment difficult to tolerate. Compliance with CPAP therapy is around fifty percent. The most widely talked about problems patients have with CPAP is mask discomfort and throat irritation

from the air pressure. Many times patients stop using CPAP therapy all together.

There are alternative treatments available for those who fail CPAP. The two most widely accepted in the medical community are surgery and Oral Appliances.

Surgery can be painful, invasive and ineffective. The most common surgical option is the Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, or UPPP. The UPPP removes the uvula, the ball of skin that hangs in the back of the throat, some of the soft palate, and in

extreme cases, part of the tongue.

The procedure is very painful, recovery takes a long time and rarely does it completely solve the issue.

Oral Appliances for the treatment of OSA, while having been around for the past 30 plus years, are a growing treatment options for many who have stopping using CPAP or have mild or moderate OSA. Oral Appliances work by gently holding the mandible, or lower jaw, forward, pulling the tissues that block the airway away from the throat and tightening the muscles in the neck further preventing collapse. The appliances look like orthodontic retainers or athletic mouth guards and are very comfortable to wear when made and fitted by a dentist who has been educated in the field of dental sleep medicine.

If you are prescribed a CPAP and

HEALTH cannot tolerate it, talk to your primary care physician about alternatives.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea is a serious condition and going without any type of therapy can be life threatening.

Dr. Tamara Osina has a general, cosmetic and restorative dental practice in Richmond, Texas. She is committed to providing the safest dental care to her patient so that they may enjoy the best oral and overall health. To learn more about CPAP alternatives and Oral Appliance Therapy, call the office at 281.342.5022 or visit www. osinadds.com. Tamara Osina DDS is located at 1320 Thompson Road (FM 762) Richmond, TX 77469

Bringing Back Bringing Back TheHouse House Call The Call Avoid unnecessary expenses and trips to the emergency room. Let our qualified care teams travel to you.

DispatchHealth provides high-quality medical care in the comfort of your home.

To request care, call 713.422.2920 or visit DispatchHealth.com.

Open 7 days a week from 8 a.m. - 10 p.m.

We accept most insurance, including Medicare.

When requesting care, please mention that you heard about DispatchHealth through the ad in Active Living.

NUTRITION

ood: s TheurGated FFatats UnsaOt mega 3 &

THE LOWDOWN ON HEALTHY FATS The Good, the “Bad” & the Ugly

K

By Anja Springthorpe

etogenic diets are gaining more and more popularity. Low intake of carbohydrates combined with high intake of protein and healthy fats formulates the main idea behind keto diets. By removing carbs, the body’s main source of energy, we begin to breakdown fat, which leads to weight-loss and long-term weight control. While this is a simple concept, the role of fats in ketogenic diets is somewhat misunderstood.

Keto diets, and most other successful dietary approaches, emphasize adequate intake of good fats. Fat is an important food group, required for optimal health. It is also a structural component of all cells, it plays a pivotal role in hormone synthesis and it is important for mental health.

Needless to say, a low-fat, or no-fat diet, can be detrimental to health.  THE GOOD: UNSATURATED FATS AND OMEGA-3 FATS Unsaturated fats are found in seeds, nuts, avocados, olives and soy. Consuming these foods or their oils has been found to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease as well as stroke. Because unsaturated fats are required for many metabolic processes, they are less likely to be stored in fat cells.

Omega-3 fats are a subgroup of unsaturated fats. These fats

8

Beauty, Serenity & Perpetual Care

are the superstars of healthy fats.

Abundant in oily fish, omega-3 fats reduce inflammation, lower your risk of cardiovascular disease and support cognitive health. In fact, they make up around 60 percent of our brain.  THE BAD: SATURATED FATS Saturated fats are largely derived from animal sources like beef, pork, whole-fat dairy, butter, cheese, lard or ice cream.

Saturated fats have received a lot of bad press over the years as they are linked to heart disease, obesity and elevated cholesterol.

However, it is not the fat itself that is bad, but the fact that we eat too much of it. The average US diet is laden with saturated fats, yet often lacks unsaturated fats.

Consuming more unsaturated fats and less saturated fats improves your overall health and longevity.  THE UGLY: TRANS FATS Trans fats are the real bad guys. Industrially produced to increase the shelf-life of products, these fats have numerous detrimental health impacts such as weight-gain, increased inflammation as well as raising bad cholesterol while lowering good cholesterol. There is no safe amount and these types of fats should be avoided altogether.

Trans fats are commonly found in processed foods like baked goods, chips and dips, chocolate bars or ready-made meals.

Funeral preplanning will save your loved ones the stress and expense of making important decisions in their time of grief.

Call today for more information or to arrange your preplanning consultation, and ensure your final arrangements are carried out according to your wishes.

FUNERAL CHAPELS, CEMETERIES & MAUSOLEUM

281-341-8800

3900 B.F. Terry Blvd • Rosenberg, Texas, 77471 W W W. D AV I S G R E E N L AW N F H . C O M

Rosenberg Dermatology & Aesthetic Center "Taking Your Skin To Greater Heights"

5219 Reading Road, Rosenberg Tx. COSMETIC DERMATOLOGY • BOTOX Cosmetic • BOTOX® for Hyperhydrosis • Levulan® • Kerastick® AESTHETIC COSMETICS • IPL Photorejuvenation • Chemical Peels • MicroPen® • BOTOX® Cosmetic • XEOMIN® • JUVÉDERM® • CO2 Laser • Laser Hair Reduction • Skincare Products

GENERAL DERMATOLOGY • Acne • Cysts • Eczema • Moles • Psoriasis Alpesh Desai, D.O. • Rosacea • Warts • Wrinkles SKIN CANCER TREATMENTS • Mohs Micrographic Surgery • Levulan® • Stereotactic Radiation Therapy (SRT) • Cryosurgery • Electrodesiccation & Curettage • Surgical Excision Celia Vaclavik, PA-C

5219 Reading Road • Rosenberg, TX 77471

Hours of Operation: Mon. – Fri: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

713-730-2000

Follow Us, Facebook, Twitter, Google+

COVER STORY

OLD SCHOOL FUN AND EXERCISE

YARD GAMES

By Liz McGehee

as stepping into your own backyard and turning back the clock with a friend for an old-school yard game.

E

xercise can improve your health and keep you fit. So why does it seem like a chore?

According to American Family Physician Journal, to stay active and limber, you should aspire to participate in four categories of exercise: aerobic, strength or resistance, balance and stretching. There are lots of ways to incorporate these types of exercises into your daily schedule without going to a gym or hiring a personal trainer.

If you aren’t accustomed to exercise, start slowly. Always check with your physician to see if you are capable or have any restrictions. If you are willing and able, take a trip to the grocery!

Simply getting out of the house

10

and going to the grocery store can be a beneficial activity to get you moving. Brisk walking to and from the car can be a form of aerobic exercise. Bending for groceries on the lower shelf can be considered a stretch if done properly. Walk, bend. Walk, bend. Walk with purpose. Don’t meander. Lifting items such as a pound of sugar or flour can help as a strength activity. Work on your balance while standing in the check out line. Simply lift one foot and count to five then alternate with the other. When you leave the grocery, you will feel refreshed and have more energy for what comes next.

Take it outside. Want to get a little fresh air and exercise at the same time? It can be as easy

HORSESHOES. Two players (or two teams) take turns throwing horseshoes at a vertical metal stake positioned 40 feet away. (This distance can vary according to space and ability.)

If the horseshoe lands around the stake (called a ringer), it’s scored at three points. If the horseshoe lands within six inches of the stake, it’s scored at one point. The first player (team) to reach 21 points wins the game.

The average horseshoe usually weigh between two and three pounds. Lifting it in a curling motion five or six times before you toss helps with strength and resistance. Stand comfortably with your arms hanging at your sides and a horseshoe in your right hand. Slowly bend the right elbow until your arm is at a right angle. Hold for two seconds. Lower your arm slowly back to the hanging position by your side. Repeat five times on each side.

CORNHOLE. While there are many homemade versions,

cornhole is easiest to set up when purchased where toys and games are sold. The game is played in singles or doubles and involves taking turns tossing corn-stuffed bags through sixinch holes on an angled wooden board. If the bag goes into the hole, the toss is scored at three points. If the bag lands on the platform, it’s scored at one point. The first player (team) to reach 21 points wins.

This game helps as a stretching activity while tossing the Want to get a bean bag. The more you little fresh air and exercise stretch, the more agile you are. The more agile, the better at the same time? It can be you can move around. From a as easy as stepping into your standing position, bend slightly own backyard. forward. With the bag in your hand, swing your arm forward and backward to a 45 degree “pins” (painted red and white if angle, then back by your side. you’re feeling creative) into the Repeat five times before you standard triangular formation throw. and take turns going for spares, CROQUET. As our cover game, strikes and even turkeys. Get the this pastime is a perennial favor- most out of this game by stretchite. Two teams (one to four peo- ing before each turn. Standing ple each) take turns hitting balls with your feet shoulder-width apart, hold the ball up to your with mallets through a course waist. Extend the ball out and of nine wickets and two stakes. bend down to touch the ball as Each time the ball is hit in the close to the ground as you can. right direction and sequence, a point is scored. The first side to Do not overdo it. Stay in a comearn points on every wicket and fortable bend.

Wrap up the gameday with stake for each of its balls wins. a refreshing strawberry-mint Make it a fit game by walking around the course one complete splash.

As with any exercise reglap each time it is your turn. imen, make sure you do not overdo it and always consult BOWLING. Using only reyour physician first. The idea is cycled two-liter soda bottles to stay active and get moving for and a ball (volleyball or soccer better health. ball), you can go bowling in your own backyard. Set up the

SIMPLE STRAWBERRY MINT SPLASH • C rushed strawberries – Fresh strawberries are best but, if they're unavailable, the frozen variety are a good substitute.

• H alf and Half sparkling water and Sprite®. By using half the Sprite®, you cut down on the sugar and maintain its freshness.

• S pear a strawberry and mint leaf with a toothpick. Top off the drink and serve.

No10 / Spring 2020

11

WHY WAIT? START LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE TODAY at Del Webb® Sweetgrass

From exercise buddies to line dancing aficionados to fellow pickleball players, you’ll find a community of likeminded people who share your interests at Del Webb Sweetgrass. Isn’t it time to make your move?

Fifty-five or better? Join a vibrant community of active, engaged enthusiasts who believe in living their best lives—today. Why wait?

A great new chapter of your life is about to unfold. You have more time and more resources. That means more new adventures, more new experiences, more new friends. And, now, a new place to live your best life. Del Webb Sweetgrass in Richmond, Texas.

Here, Del Webb has created a community where you can live life with passion and purpose, surrounded by a supportive community of people who share many of your interests and hobbies, people who understand that this new chapter of life can be the best chapter of life.

Whether you play tennis or pickleball, love to cook and entertain, or enjoy intellectual pursuits like computers, literature, art and culture...whatever you’re passionate about, odds are you’ll find a group or club devoted to it at Del Webb Sweetgrass. And, if not, our full-time Lifestyle Director and staff will help you start your own!

8 6 6 . 2 3 2 .6 0 7 2 • W W W. D E LW E B B .C O M / S W E E T G R A S S

12

At least one resident must be 55 years of age or better, a limited number of residents may be younger and no one under 19 years of age. Some residents may be younger th base prices and are subject to change without notice. Lot premiums may apply. Details available upon request. ©2018 Pulte Home Corporation. 3/6/18

FINA L RE te & Gard LEAS E en S eries !

Hom e

Esta

s

The stunning Lakehouse, with indoor & outdoor pools, fitness center and gathering spaces, is the heart of our vibrant community.

• 27,000-sq. ft. Recreation Center • Indoor Pool and Spa

So many ways to unwind. Head to the Lakehouse for a water aerobics class, a billiards game or a workout in the Fitness Center.

Take a dip or relax by the outdoor pool. Explore the waters around Del Webb Sweetgrass by kayak. Watch the sun set from the amphitheater. Or enjoy a congenial game of golf at nearby Fort Bend Country Club. It’s all waiting for you, right in your own backyard, when you call our exceptional community home.

Inspired Design® Homes by Del Webb®. At Del Webb, we’ve spent years learning from our homeowners, and with their feedback, we’ve created homes that offer light-filled, airy, flexible spaces.

You’ll find open floorplans and cooks’ kitchens that make entertaining fun. Spa-like baths and tranquil owners’ retreats.

Covered patios for year-round outdoor living. Plus thoughtful touches like drop-zones with extra storage, seating and shelving.

Sound like the perfect place to live your best life? We invite you to visit Del Webb Sweetgrass today. Sales Center and Furnished Model Park are open daily.

• Tennis, Pickleball and Bocce Courts • Adjacent to Fort Bend Country Club • Private Pier for Launching Kayaks, Canoes and Paddleboats • Outdoor Pool with Beach Entry • Wide array of social clubs, affinity groups and organized activities, plus a full-time Lifestyle and Activity Director to coordinate it all • 10 floorplans priced from the $190s

3031 PERSIMMON GROVE, RICHMOND, TX • LOCATED OFF US 59 & FM 762

13

han 55. Community Association fees required. Complete offering terms of the homeowner’s association is in an offering plan available from sponsor. Void where prohibited. Prices reflect

No10 / Spring 2020

WELLNESS

Epso

m sa lts

MAGNESIUM T

o say that magnesium is essential to health and well-being is an understatement. As the fourth most abundant mineral in the body, magnesium plays a vital role in energy production, protein synthesis, muscle functioning, blood sugar control and gene control. In fact, almost every cell in our body requires it to function effectively.

Magnesium deficiency correlates to many conditions. Osteoporosis, heart disease, hypertension, insulin resistance, migraines,

By Anja Springthorpe

fatigue and conditions of the nervous system.

Muscle cramps, which are usually triggered by low levels of magnesium, should be taken seriously. Needless to say, we require sufficient amounts of this nutrient for optimal health.  WHAT CAUSES MAGNESIUM DEFICIENCY? A number of factors contribute to insufficient levels. A diet lacking certain foods, such as nuts, seeds, dark green leafy vegetables or sardines, can lead to a deficiency.

Also, the body’s ability

to absorb magnesium from the foods we eat weakens as we age.

Furthermore, frequent alcohol consumption is known to cause magnesium deficiency as well as kidney or gastrointestinal conditions.  HOW MUCH DO WE NEED? According to the National Institutes of Health, men aged 50 and above require around 420mg of magnesium per day.

Women of the same age group should aim to consume around 320mg per day. This is equivalent to approximately two cups of

brown rice, one grilled mackerel, one cup of spinach and one cup of all-bran cereal for example.

Ideally, you should obtain magnesium via the food that we eat. However, supplementation is a suitable alternative and most health stores stock a range of supplements.

Actually, people that take the supplements often report an increased feeling of calmness, relaxation and improved sleep.

This is likely due to the relaxing muscle effects of magnesium.

Interestingly enough, it is one of the few minerals you can absorb through the skin. Epsom salts, for example, contain high amounts of magnesium. A 15-minute soak in a bathtub containing one cup of Epsom salt can boost levels considerably.

*If you take prescription medication, please talk to your physician or pharmacists before taking magnesium supplements.

14

RELATIONSHIPS

HOW TO MAKE FRIENDS

AFTER A MOVE

By Liz McGehee

a blast, and there are chapters all across the country to help you form life-long, female friendships. Go to redhatsociety.com to find your local chapter.  Trust your gut.

Putting yourself out there is difficult for most of us. However, if you see an opportunity to make a new friend, take it! Pay attention to people and conversations around

M

oving to a new city is hard at any age, but it can feel especially tough when you’re older.

Maybe you’ve retired or your kids are all grown up now. Many of the things that made up your identity a decade ago have changed and you’re not sure where you’ll fit in now. The process of finding friends in a new place may seem daunting, but it’s never too late to make new friends.

Here are a few ways to make new connections:  Volunteer. Whether reading to a group of

 Don’t limit yourself.

New city, new you.

One of the perks of starting over in a place where no one knows you is the opportunity to redefine yourself and try new things without judgement.  Find your tribe. If Take a crack at yoga, you love books, find dye your hair, go on or start a book club. the Mediterranean diet Walking, dancing, or just change up your cheese-tasting, writing, wardrobe. When you cooking, spiritualifeel like your best self, ty, crafts, museums, others can’t help but adventures—whatever gravitate to you. you’re into, there’s a group waiting for you  Wear a red hat. to join. Meetup.com The Red Hat Society also allows you to con- (RHS) is a group of tact local groups with women 50 or older particular interests. dedicated to having children at your local library, helping out at the VA hospital or building houses for displaced families, giving back to your new community will help you meet new people.

ou’re Whatever y into–books, ncing, walking, da re’s a cooking–the for g group waitin you to join. you. Be helpful whenever you can, however you can. Your new best friend could be standing in front of you in the post office line, waiting behind you to order coffee or sitting next to you at the movies. You just never know where life will lead you.

No10 / Spring 2018

15

FINANCE

PREVENTING CONTRACTOR FRAUD

By Chad Ruiz

S

top me if you've heard this one before. After answering your door, a self-proclaimed arborist says he was passing through and noticed the dead tree in your front yard. He claims that he can cut it down for you tomorrow and haul away the debris but first, he’ll need a $50 deposit to secure his services. He hands you a business card, and you notice the company name printed on his truck.

While this may seem shady to some of you,

16

unfortunately, millions of people every year fall for these con artists.

Last year, more than 15 million consumers gave up over $16 billion to scammers, according to the latest numbers from Javelin Strategy & Research. That’s up 16 percent year over year and 25 percent since 2011. With more and more consumers buying online, virtual transaction theft experienced the highest uptick, growing by 40 percent.

Even with the latest security measures, thieves and scammers

continue finding new ways to tap into our wallets. Stay ahead of the con-game with these rules.

ASK FOR REFERENCES All quality contractors and professionals have a long list of satisfied clients at the ready in case a new client requests references.

Demand a list of at least three of the most recent clients serviced by the contractor. I suggest asking the recent clients about the quality of work performed, cleanliness, cost and completion duration.

USE THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU The BBB suggests contacting them or visiting BBB.org to check for complaints against the company, especially “traveling” contractors

who show up following a natural disaster.

AVOID PAYING ANYTHING UPFRONT In another life when I operated a landscaping business, after my customer and I agreed upon the design, estimated cost and contract, I always asked for at least a third of the project total upfront. This protected my company from wasting money and time gathering materials, and it protected the consumer. The BBB echoes this practice and recommends that you “set up a schedule of payments based on the job’s progress.”

HERE ARE SOME MORE TIPS FOR AVOIDING CONTRACTOR FRAUD. • A lways use printed contracts and read the fine print • R equest before/after pictures of previous jobs • W atch out for “cheap” labor and materials • R equest license numbers and building permits • N ever hire a contractor on the spot • C ontact professionals referred by family and friends

ACCESS EVERYTHING YOU NEED, EVERY TIME YOU NEED IT. Enjoy more access to your kitchen with custom pull-out shelves for your existing cabinets.

50% OFF

INSTALLATION* Schedule your free design consultation today!

(713) 804-4760 | shelfgenie.com *Limit one offer per household. Must purchase 5+ Classic/Designer Shelves. EXP 1/31/2021.

®

FUN

Remember When...1956

Lucille Ball almost drowned while stomping grapes!

In the "I Love Lucy" episode, titled “Lucy’s Italian Movie,” there was trouble on the set during the grape stomping scene. Said Dennis Sprick of The New York Times, “That was a real-life Italian grape stomper who was Lucy’s vat partner and who almost drowned the real-life Lucille Ball by pushing her down into the grapes and grape juice and fighting with her during the filming of that episode.”

Spot the 5 Differences

Mario’s Paint & Body Shop Restoring Cars Since 1980

Custom Paint

Base Coat & Clear Coat

Expert Color Matching

One Day Service

Proudly supporting our community for over 39 years!

Custom Repairs

Frame Alignments

Insurance Claims Welcome

1405 Jackson Street • Richmond Texas 77469

281-342-2198

www.mariospaintandbody.com

Way. y.

dnd dnd

hip ship nship onship are e milies amilies ilies es

Lucille Ball WORD SEARCH: Find the words/ phrases in the puzzle and circle them. Have fun!

Babalu Beverly Hills Comedienne Cuban Desi Arnaz Desilu Studios Emmy Ethel Mertz Fred Mertz Heres Lucy I Love Lucy Icon Jamestown Laughter Lucie Arnaz

Lucy Ricardo Mame MGM Paramount Redhead Ricky Ricardo Show business Sitcom Technicolor Television The Lucy Show Vivian Vance Wildcat William Frawley Yours, Mine and Ours

Answer Key: (1) Lucille's belt turns colors. (2) Lucille's earring disappears. (3) Grapes disappear from the lady's chest.(4) The woman's earring changes. (5) Lucille's bandana changes.

We Care We We Every We Care We Care We Care Care Day, Every Care Every Every Every InDay, Every Every Day, Day, Day, InDay, In Way. Every InEvery InEvery InEvery Way. Every Way. Way. Way. Way. VisitingVisiting Angels Visiting Visiting Visiting Visiting Angels Can Angels Angels Help...

Angels Angels Can Can Can Help...

Can Help...

Can Help...

Help...

Help...

Senior Senior Senior Senior Senior Senior Care Care Care Care Care for Care for Total for for for for Total Total Total Total Total Peace Peace Peace Peace Peace Peace of Mind of of of of Mind of Mind Mind Mind Mind

Meal Preparation Meal Meal Meal Meal Preparation Meal Preparation Preparation Preparation Preparation Bathing Bathing Bathing Assistance Bathing Bathing Bathing Assistance Assistance Assistance Assistance Assistance Medication Medication Medication Medication Medication Reminders Medication Reminders Reminders Reminders Reminders Reminders Dressing Dressing Dressing Dressing Assistance Dressing Dressing Assistance Assistance Assistance Assistance Assistance Errands Errands Errands Errands Errands Errands Friendly Friendly Friendly Companionship Friendly Friendly Friendly Companionship Companionship Companionship Companionship Companionship Grooming Grooming Grooming Grooming Grooming Grooming Shopping Shopping Shopping Shopping Shopping Shopping Flexible Flexible Flexible Hourly Flexible Flexible Flexible Hourly Care Hourly Hourly Hourly Hourly Care Care Care Care Care Assistance Assistance Assistance Assistance Assistance with Assistance Walking with with with with Walking with Walking Walking Walking Walking Light Housekeeping Light Light Light Light Housekeeping Light Housekeeping Housekeeping Housekeeping Housekeeping RespiteRespite Respite Care Respite Respite Respite for Care Care Families Care Care for Care for for Families for Families for Families Families Families

281.207.1259 281.207.1259 281.207.1259 281.207.1259 281.207.1259 281.207.1259 Each Visiting Each Angels Each Visiting Each agency Visiting Each Visiting Each Each Angels Visiting isAngels Visiting independently Visiting Angels agency Angels agency Angels Angels agency isagency independently isagency owned agency independently is independently is independently and is is independently independently operated. owned owned owned and owned and operated. owned owned and operated. and operated. and and operated. operated. operated.

VisitingAngels.com/sugarland VisitingAngels.com/sugarland VisitingAngels.com/sugarland VisitingAngels.com/sugarland VisitingAngels.com/sugarland VisitingAngels.com/sugarland

HEALTHY MINDS

3 LIFE-SAVING SELF-EXAMS

YOU SHOULD PERFORM REGULARLY

By Liz McGehee Whether you are a man or a woman, talking to your spouse, children and loved ones about the importance of self-examinations could save their lives one day. Here are a few self-exams you can and should perform regularly:

S

elf-exams are easy to perform and one of your first lines of defense when it comes to preventing fatal diseases like cancer. The lack of discussion around men’s health makes men less likely to perform a self-examination and puts them at greater risk of missing diseases in critical stages.

USING A CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION (CDC) REPORT ON MEN’S HEALTH, EVERYDAY HEALTH RECENTLY REPORTED THAT:

• m en are 80 percent less likely than women to use a regular source of health care • men ages 18-50 don’t even have a regular source of health care • a third of men in that age group hadn’t had a checkup in more than a year • 40 percent had never had their cholesterol checked

20

 BREAST EXAM Although breast cancer isn’t as common in men as it is in women, men still make up one percent of breast cancer cases in the U.S., according to the Susan G. Komen Foundation. Women especially should self-examine breast tissue for abnormalities.

Breastcancer.org says you should (1) begin a breast exam by looking for irregularities in a mirror with shoulders straight and arms on hips. (2) Next, raise your arms while continuing to look for irregularities in shape, size, color, symmetry or nipple fluid. (3) Lie down and use a circular motion to feel breast “from top to bottom, side to side—from collarbone to the top of your abdomen, and from your armpit to your cleavage.” (4) Repeat while standing or sitting. You can do this in the shower as well.  TESTICLE EXAM This exam only applies to men. The Testicular Cancer Society says the best time to examine yourself is after a warm shower or bath.

(1) Stand in front of a mirror and check for swelling on the scrotal skin. (2) Examine both testicles individually with both hands by placing index and middle fingers under the testicle with the thumbs placed on top. Roll between your thumbs and fingers to feel for irregularities. (3) Find the soft rope-like structure on the back of the testicle and disregard during self-exam as a suspicious lump.

 SKIN EXAM The Skin Cancer Foundation offers a free, printable body map and self-examination schedule. This is where you will record any moles, birthmarks, freckles and so on. Note anything new during your next self-exam and follow up with a dermatologist.

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US

FORT

BEST AUDIOLOGIST AND HEARING AIDS

BEND

IN FORT BEND COUNTY!

FORT BEND HERALD

FORT BEND HERALD

2014

OTHER EXAMS YOU MAY WANT TO CONSIDER INCLUDE:

READERS’ CHOICE

2015 READERS’ CHOICE

REA

DER

HERA

S' C

LD

HOIC

E

FORT BEND HERALD

2017 READERS' CHOICE

'

• Oral Exam–oral cancer is twice as common in men, also checks for gum disease • Belly Fat – this may reveal serious health issues like diabetes and heart disease • Heart Rate Check – find out if you’re at risk for a heart attack • Blood Pressure – high blood pressure is related to a number of serious health issues

Tara Johnston, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology, Owner

A FULL SERVICE AUDIOLOGY CLINIC • On-site Service of all Major Hearing Aid Brands • Hearing Aid Consultations • Hearing & Balance Evaluations

SIGNATURE

H E A R I N G& B A L A N C E

PLLC

866-714-7495 208 E. Hwy 90 A

ACCEPTS Medicare, Medicaid AND MOST insurance plans

Garmany & Carden "A Tradition of Family Service" • Pre-Planned Funeral Arrangements • Cremation Services • Funeral Arrangements • Cemetery Markers

281-342-4671 1201 4th Street • Rosenberg, TX

Chapel Locations in Needville & Rosenberg

www.garmanycarden.com

Richmond, TX 77406

HAVE SLEEP APNEA?

HATE

CPAP?

CPAP is no longer the only treatment option for this serious condition!

Oral appliances can reduce or eliminate snoring while managing sleep apnea with no masks or hoses!

Learn About Alternatives to CPAP at

Tamara S. Osina-Felinski, D.D.S.

Mon.-Thurs. 8-5 • Fri. 7-3 (Early morning appointments available)

Call or Make an Appointment Today!

1320 Thompson Rd. ¡ Richmond, TX | 281-342-5022

richmondtexassleepdentist.com

MUSIC TO YOUR EARS! Richmond’s most trusted ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE has everything you need!

SPECIALLY-PREPARED MENU AND FOOD

CERTIFIED NURSE ON SITE

WEEKLY HOUSEKEEPING AND MAINTENANCE

TRANSPORTATION

ALL UTILITIES

MEDICATION SUPERVISION

SECURE KEYLESS DOOR ENTRY

AND MUCH MORE!

CALL TODAY AND SCHEDULE A TOUR!

(832) 353-2800

legacyatlongmeadow.com

10403 Mason Rd Richmond, TX 77406

FIGHT CANCER

50,000 new cancer patients every year.

1 Texan back to leatherworking.

At Texas Oncology, our patients are as remarkable as our care. That’s why we do more than help them fight cancer; we treat every treatment like a breakthrough. With 420+ physicians, 175+ locations statewide and thousands of patients on clinical trials, we provide leading-edge care for more than 50,000 Texans every year — including gifted patients like Dave. After beating cancer, he got back in the saddle — one he made himself.

See his story at TexasOncology.com/Dave.

TEXAS ONCOLOGY–KATY 1331 W. Grand Parkway N., Suite 340 Katy, TX 77493 • 281-392-2757

TEXAS ONCOLOGY–SUGAR LAND 1350 First Colony Blvd.

Sugar Land, TX 77479 • 281-277-5200

1-888-864-4226 • www.TexasOncology.com